Autocross & Motorcycle helmets, The same? Different? Options

[Rusty]

I've been reading all the info I can about how to select a motorcycle helmet. Apparently, not all helmets are equal, and my head is worth far more (to me) than whatever I invest in a helmet. Within reason, cost is not an issue on this safety piece.

While looking around, I realized that many were Snell rated. So, does this mean that my motorcycle helmet can pull double duty as an autocross helmet?

-Rusty (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smoke.gif)

[RocknRollFrenzy]

a few things to think about when buying helmets: (in no particular order)

1. a cheap helmet has to pass the same impact tests as the expensive ones, however the expesive ones generally manage to pass those test with a lot less weight and bulk. on a bike this translates to a lot less of a beating on the noggin from wind. in a car it means a lot less force on the neck when you get thrown against your harnesses. you also tend to get nice things like removeable pads for the extra cash. makes it easier to keep the helmet from getting stinky. bike helmets also tend to have slighty heavier, thicker shells because they have to protect against the abrasion of sliding on pavement as well as impact.

2. an often overlooked difference between motorcycle helmets and car helmets is the venting. the vents on most car helmets are usually really open and free flowing because its assumed that you're behind a windshield. the vents on bike helmets tend to be smaller and rely on forced air flowing in the front and out the back to create their air circulation (which is why they fog when you're stopped and clear as soon as you're rolling). motorcycle helmets in cars tend to get really stuffy and fog easier, and you'll probably find yourself needing to leave your visor open a little.

3. another overlooked difference is that many car helmets are now made with attachment points for head and neck restraints. bike helmets wont ever have this (though you you could add fittings to a motorcycle helmet the same way you would to a car helmet that doesn't have them built in.) if you're planning on doing wheel to wheel racing at some point definitely take this into consideration.

4. do you actually ride a motorcycle? if you do, and you need the helmet to serve double duty till you can get a car specific helmet, then get a motorcycle helmet. if you don't, then why not just spend the few extra dollars for the sa rated helmet. chances are that you'll find yourself having to get one eventually anyway if you start doing a lot of track days.

5. all other things considered, the most important thing is fit. if it doesn't fit, it won't work.