Using Mx Helmet

[Ashley123]

Is there really much difference between mb full face helmets and motocross full face helmets besides weight?

Its just i shall be getting a motocross bike soon and will need a helmet for that and i also need one for mb so i was thinking save some money and get an mx one and use it for both. What do you guys think? good or bad idea.

[Pat...]

For lower speed crashes, a mtb helmet is better and for higher speed crashes a MX one would be better. Someone will proably post the link to a thread with all that info.

[Ashley123]

Ok thanks, yeh i did search for topics on it, but i kinda just wanted to know whether it would be a good idea to save the money and buy an mx instead of buying 2 helmets.

[pinkshirtphotos]

For lower speed crashes, a mtb helmet is better

dude u smoking something. an mx helmet is better for all crashes. i am considering getting a dot approved helmet for dh riding. a few of my buddies have been getting head injuries and i want to save whatever smart is left in my brain. mx is heavier.

[Ashley123]

dude u smoking something. an mx helmet is better for all crashes. i am considering getting a dot approved helmet for dh riding. a few of my buddies have been getting head injuries and i want to save whatever smart is left in my brain. mx is heavier.

Thank you.

How much heavier? is it really noticeable?

[DHRFX Joe]

http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=1035

[pinkshirtphotos]

go to your local dh park and ask people if you can feel their helmets to compare weight

[Ashley123]

http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=1035

Thank you, that actually helped rather alot. :)

[Pat...]

dude u smoking something. an mx helmet is better for all crashes. i am considering getting a dot approved helmet for dh riding. a few of my buddies have been getting head injuries and i want to save whatever smart is left in my brain. mx is heavier.

uh..no. :lighten:
MX helmets are stiffer and won't absorb much energy in a low speed hit.

Look at this thread (http://www.ridemonkey.com/forums/showthread.php?t=161900&highlight=mtb+helmets). Look at Bikenweed's post.

[kazlx]

Listen to people who actually wear a MX helmet. I have a dirtbike and just wear that for both. I think a majority of the MTB specific helmets fit like crap and aren't very comfortable. I don't know what people complain about. I have ridden in both types and will never again by a MTB specific helmet. My MX helmets have protected the noggin enough times to make me a believer.

[Iridemtb]

What speed is considered high speed, and what speed is considered low speed?

For example:
High speed impact:45 mph direct impact
Low speed impact:25 mph direct impact

I'm in the market for a new DH helmet too...

[Ashley123]

Listen to people who actually wear a MX helmet. I have a dirtbike and just wear that for both. I think a majority of the MTB specific helmets fit like crap and aren't very comfortable. I don't know what people complain about. I have ridden in both types and will never again by a MTB specific helmet. My MX helmets have protected the noggin enough times to make me a believer.

Ok thank you kazlx.

I think i will buy an mx one and wear it for both, seems pointless buying 2 helmets when i can buy 1 and use it for both.

Thanks again for all the help.

[kazlx]

Plus it sucks that I have a big head and usually need a XXL.

[Ashley123]

lol, im not sure what size i am thinking about it, i think either an M or L. Ill have to find out.

[bent^biker]

i wear a dot rated helmet for racing and other high speed riding. i own a fly venom and have been very happy with it. the weight is not a huge factor (if it is then you need the neck work out anyway) the only thing I really miss is the venting of a mtb helmet and even that is not too bad.

[DH Diva]

Wow. It only took 12 posts from complete strangers to convince you what is best for your own head. Must not be that precious of an item to ya.

Do some research, use the search option, and decide for yourself what is best for you.

Keep in mind, if your using a helmet for two sports you are using it twice as much, which in turn means you'll just need to replace it twice as fast. Get the appropriate helmet for each activity and then if you bust one up, you'll still have another helmet and another sport to occupy your time while you get a new lid.

Or be a cheap skate and get one.

Or jump off a bridge because 12 strangers tell you to.

[Ashley123]

id actually already decided what i thought i wanted, but i started this topic mainly so i could find out other people opinions on my idea of using an mx helmet for mb and mx, so im not just deciding after 12 posts, im not that stupid.

[DH Diva]

id actually already decided what i thought i wanted, but i started this topic mainly so i could find out other people opinions on my idea of using an mx helmet for mb and mx, so im not just deciding after 12 posts, im not that stupid.

Although not smart enough to use the search feature.

[narlus]

13th stranger checking in.

mx helmet all the way.

[Lazy]

I usea mx healment and i feel more protected :)

[ChrisKring]

What speed is considered high speed, and what speed is considered low speed?

For example:
High speed impact:45 mph direct impact
Low speed impact:25 mph direct impact

I'm in the market for a new DH helmet too...

I think you touched on the problem. I don't know how much data is actually avaliable on DH crashes. When investigating a crash, they need to evaluate if the person would have survived even if their head was good. In other words, it doesn't do any good to protect the head for a 200mph impact if the body is going to be damaged so badly that there is no chance of surviving. So someone needs to determine a speed to test at. Even the Snell is pretty low speed at 17.33 mph (150 Joules of energy with a 5kg head). That's a drop from just over 10 feet.

Then you would need to look at the background of the impact. AKA the object hit.

On a side note, here is a link for an inexpensive MX helmet for those of you that need a new helmet and can not afford to buy one. http://www.denniskirk.com/jsp/product_catalog/Product.jsp?skuId=&store=Outlet&catId=101&productId=prod293300&leafCatId=10103&mmyId=&ysmtac=EMAIL&ysmchn=INH&ysmcpn=2007Closeout&ysmtrm=Offroad.Brand.20070711

I don't know anything about them.

[Ashley123]

Although not smart enough to use the search feature.

i cant understand why your being like that for? I simply asked a question about was the main difference between mx and mb helmets the weight and was it a good idea to use an mx for both. Id had searched around and was simply looking for some answers to my question.

[DH Diva]

i cant understand why your being like that for? I simply asked a question about was the main difference between mx and mb helmets the weight and was it a good idea to use an mx for both. Id had searched around and was simply looking for some answers to my question.

If you had searched, you would have found about 15 threads over the last couple years that directly debate the pros and cons of using an MX helmet for mountain biking, and provide detailed info about helmet weights. Some of these threads are pages long and are full of the information you'r looking for. Like I said, do a simple search and all your questions will be answered. Last time I checked this wasn't the "downhill cliffnotes" forum.

[DownhillR3]

I use a motocross helmet for Downhill. A Shoei VFXR, to many letters, i forgot. But the Travis Pastrana edition, you know. Anyways, yeah it is alittle heavier the DH helmets, but its got more padding & by the feel and the way its made, I feel alot safer in it & have taken some nasty wacks and come out okay. I'm sticking with an MX helmet, i'll take the extra weight and maybe alittle lesss ventilation depending on the helmet, but I care more about my head.

[Ashley123]

lol ok im sorry, i will search properly next time.

i just find some of the topics are pages and pages and only like one reply might be useful. But thanks anyway i will search properly next time :)

[DH Diva]

lol ok im sorry, i will search properly next time.

i just find some of the topics are pages and pages and only like one reply might be useful. But thanks anyway i will search properly next time :)

No worries. It's just this same questions is asked every few weeks and it's always turns into a big debate about why mx helmets are good or bad for MTBing. Most of the time the same info is put out there and all the same points are made. Most people don't check out the vast amount of data that is already here, so the whole cycle starts over.

But more importantly, what kind of dirt bike are you getting?:cheers:

[Ashley123]

Yeh i can imagine. Dont worry i have learnt my lesson :biggrin:

Well i was looking at the Kawasaki Kx125, seems like a decent enough bike, do you ride? what bike you got? :cheers:

[DH Diva]

Yeh i can imagine. Dont worry i have learnt my lesson :biggrin:

Well i was looking at the Kawasaki Kx125, seems like a decent enough bike, do you ride? what bike you got? :cheers:

I have a Honda CRF 250x. It's been pretty heavily modded for performance, and I'm hoping soon to get a new exhaust and cam so it'll really fly.

My MTBs are a Foes FXR trail bike and a Foes XCT-4 cross country bike. I used to race Foes Mono's for DH, but retired from racing in '04.

[Ashley123]

I have a Honda CRF 250x. It's been pretty heavily modded for performance, and I'm hoping soon to get a new exhaust and cam so it'll really fly.

My MTBs are a Foes FXR trail bike and a Foes XCT-4 cross country bike. I used to race Foes Mono's for DH, but retired from racing in '04.

Cool, the Honda's are nice bikes. I was looking at there newer 150 looks sweet, not sure if it would be to small for me though. Not sure what size im going to need.

Damn thoose mtb's you got are sweet!

[DownhillR3]

I have a Honda CRF 250x. It's been pretty heavily modded for performance, and I'm hoping soon to get a new exhaust and cam so it'll really fly.

My MTBs are a Foes FXR trail bike and a Foes XCT-4 cross country bike. I used to race Foes Mono's for DH, but retired from racing in '04.

I have a CRF250X myself. But i need cash for Downhill racing, do you know anyone who is interested in one? haha.:cheers:

[DH Diva]

Cool, the Honda's are nice bikes. I was looking at there newer 150 looks sweet, not sure if it would be to small for me though. Not sure what size im going to need.

Damn thoose mtb's you got are sweet!

The 150r is a sweet ride. The 150f wouldn't have enough power and is a heavy mofo. I'm 5'4" and the 150 is just a bit too cramped for trail or desert as far as size goes, way too small when it comes to power, but it would rock on the track. I have to keep up with the boys on 450's and 525's in the desert so I have to have more grunt than the 150 can give me, but people love them for MX. I've heard their really zippy, a tiny bike with big bike quality.

How tall are you? That will make a bit of a difference on what bike to get. I had to sink $700 into custom suspension work the day I rolled my 250 of the floor to get it to fit right. Also what kind of riding will you be doing primarily? I'm a trail/desert girl myself. If your spending all your time at the track a kx 125 sounds like a good start, if your going to be splitting your time, there are other options that would suit you better.

[Ashley123]

The 150r is a sweet ride. The 150f wouldn't have enough power and is a heavy mofo. I'm 5'4" and the 150 is just a bit too cramped for trail or desert as far as size goes, way too small when it comes to power, but it would rock on the track. I have to keep up with the boys on 450's and 525's in the desert so I have to have more grunt than the 150 can give me, but people love them for MX. I've heard their really zippy, a tiny bike with big bike quality.

How tall are you? That will make a bit of a difference on what bike to get. I had to sink $700 into custom suspension work the day I rolled my 250 of the floor to get it to fit right. Also what kind of riding will you be doing primarily? I'm a trail/desert girl myself. If your spending all your time at the track a kx 125 sounds like a good start, if your going to be splitting your time, there are other options that would suit you better.

Im 5ft 9, and im not sure to be honest, i was thinking like track and trial maybe, few jumps here and there. Thats my only worry is fitting the bike, obviously i don't want to spend a ridiculous amount on a bike at this stage but i reckon now size wise id probably have to be looking at a 250 then because i just think the 125 might be to small, or do they do them in different sizes? Probably best to go to a shop and look at the sizes.

[CKxx]

Although not smart enough to use the search feature.

Wow. Who pissed in your cheerios?

Sometimes it really is hard to find what you are looking for via a search.


Anyway, as it has been stated, the MX helmets are going to be made for higher speed impacts. These, of course, are the one you are trying to protect yourself from. So....that leads us to one conclusion. Before you buy either helmet, try to get a peek at an MTB full-face, and an MX full-face. The MTB ones look like a total joke. They are like a basic XC lid with some extra plastic crap down near your cheek bones. Said crap is barely even shock absorbing. In most cases it appears to only be padding.

I am going to take this moment to point you to this guy. --> http://www.rockgardn.com/items/helmets/blacklite-detail.htm?menu=helmets
After much researching I felt that the RG helmet met the criteria I was searching for.

[pinkshirtphotos]

Wow. Who pissed in your cheerios?




FTW hhahaha

[DH Diva]

Wow. Who pissed in your cheerios?

Sometimes it really is hard to find what you are looking for via a search.
.

On this particular topic, if you can read basic english you will find what your looking for as it has been debated thouroughly and regularly.

And Cheerios taste like cardboard. Pissing in them really wouldn't do any damage, might make them better even.

[seth505]

[QUOTE=DH Diva;2601308]Keep in mind, if your using a helmet for two sports you are using it twice as much, which in turn means you'll just need to replace it twice as fast. Get the appropriate helmet for each activity and then if you bust one up, you'll still have another helmet and another sport to occupy your time while you get a new lid.
QUOTE]

that is totally inaccurate.

And to answer the poster, I have always used mx helmets since I mx as well. They arent too heavy or too hot for me, but some say they make their head too hot...

[seth505]

Im 5ft 9,
i reckon now size wise id probably have to be looking at a 250 then because i just think the 125 might be to small, or do they do them in different sizes? Probably best to go to a shop and look at the sizes.


Depends on what type of bike, if you are talking motocross, then a 125 2stroke will be as big (if not taller seat height) than a 250. A 125 fourstroke is going to be more of a beginner bike/lower seat height, lesser suspension. If you are looking for a full on mx bike then it is best to compare 125/250 2strokes and 250 fourstrokes. I don't mention 450s because they are basically too fast for almost anyone so why bother. I have friends who are pros who say their 450 is too fast and might go back to 250s for the heck of it. Anyhow, good luck searching...new bike time is always fun.

[Ashley123]

Depends on what type of bike, if you are talking motocross, then a 125 2stroke will be as big (if not taller seat height) than a 250. A 125 fourstroke is going to be more of a beginner bike/lower seat height, lesser suspension. If you are looking for a full on mx bike then it is best to compare 125/250 2strokes and 250 fourstrokes. I don't mention 450s because they are basically too fast for almost anyone so why bother. I have friends who are pros who say their 450 is too fast and might go back to 250s for the heck of it. Anyhow, good luck searching...new bike time is always fun.

Ok thanks, i think my best bet will be to pop on down to the shop and have a look around at sizes, i originally talked about a 125 because cheaper and sensible for a first bike, but obviously its guna need to fit too.id rather by second hand at the moment because new can really be expensive, so i'll just have to ask them if i can sit on them lol.

[mtnbiker7]

get an MX helmet, before you buy put it on and shake your head left, then right, If it moves alot get a smaller helmet,or put the helmet on and try to slide your hand in the side between your cheek and the padding, If the helmet is the right size it shouldnt be to easy to slide your hand in.

[thom9719]

I use a Dh helmet, because it is lighter, more sleek looking, doesn't hurt my neck when riding, and I don't look like a bobble head doll :D

Kyle,

[Ashley123]

Wow. Who pissed in your cheerios?

Sometimes it really is hard to find what you are looking for via a search.


Anyway, as it has been stated, the MX helmets are going to be made for higher speed impacts. These, of course, are the one you are trying to protect yourself from. So....that leads us to one conclusion. Before you buy either helmet, try to get a peek at an MTB full-face, and an MX full-face. The MTB ones look like a total joke. They are like a basic XC lid with some extra plastic crap down near your cheek bones. Said crap is barely even shock absorbing. In most cases it appears to only be padding.

I am going to take this moment to point you to this guy. --> http://www.rockgardn.com/items/helmets/blacklite-detail.htm?menu=helmets
After much researching I felt that the RG helmet met the criteria I was searching for.

Thank you for that info, it was very useful :)

[punkassean]

Im 5ft 9, and im not sure to be honest, i was thinking like track and trial maybe, few jumps here and there. Thats my only worry is fitting the bike, obviously i don't want to spend a ridiculous amount on a bike at this stage but i reckon now size wise id probably have to be looking at a 250 then because i just think the 125 might be to small, or do they do them in different sizes? Probably best to go to a shop and look at the sizes.

A person of you're height will want a bigger bike than a 150F. I'd look for a CRF230F if you want a fun all-around trail bike (but not really a motocross bike) or a CRF250R if you want something light and nimble for mostly track riding and basic trails or a 250X if you want to do some more trail riding and occasional track riding.

You might also really like a KTM 250XCF. I have a KTM 250SXF and i trail ride it often and it also kicks ass on the track. KTM makes some very light and reliable bikes.

As far as the helmet dilemma, if you really want to have only one helmet it's not the worst thing you could do to run a moto helmet for mtb riding but I agree with DH Diva in saying that ideally you'd have a helmet for each sport. A Giro Remedy will run you $130 and a Bell Moto-7R will run you $200. For $330 total (USD) you'll have a top-notch SNELL/DOT moto lid and an ASTM/CPSC DH bicycle helmet.

[seth505]

Ok thanks, i think my best bet will be to pop on down to the shop and have a look around at sizes, i originally talked about a 125 because cheaper and sensible for a first bike, but obviously its guna need to fit too.id rather by second hand at the moment because new can really be expensive, so i'll just have to ask them if i can sit on them lol.


cool, ya there is way too much info to list as far as how to go about it, but you have the right idea. Just dont listen to the sales guys, sit on the bikes and see what feels right to YOU. Definitely go used too,for example when I got my 2005 kx250, I got it for 3200. This was last year when the 06s were out, which cost about 6000 (and its the same exact bike).
So to sum up I say:
1- go used, so you save alot but not clapped out
2- 2stroke will be less maintenance/less money if something goes boom/ but not as fun power delivery as 4stroke for a beginner
3- 125/250/250f bikes will all have good suspension and relatively same seat heights

[Ashley123]

A person of you're height will want a bigger bike than a 150F. I'd look for a CRF230F if you want a fun all-around trail bike (but not really a motocross bike) or a CRF250R if you want something light and nimble for mostly track riding and basic trails or a 250X if you want to do some more trail riding and occasional track riding.

You might also really like a KTM 250XCF. I have a KTM 250SXF and i trail ride it often and it also kicks ass on the track. KTM makes some very light and reliable bikes.

As far as the helmet dilemma, if you really want to have only one helmet it's not the worst thing you could do to run a moto helmet for mtb riding but I agree with DH Diva in saying that ideally you'd have a helmet for each sport. A Giro Remedy will run you $130 and a Bell Moto-7R will run you $200. For $330 total (USD) you'll have a top-notch SNELL/DOT moto lid and an ASTM/CPSC DH bicycle helmet.

YEh i was starting to wonder when DHdiva said she was 5ft4 and rode a 250 hmm am i actually going to fit on this 125 i want. I've only just moved to Canada, so were moving into our house on the 21st of this month, so i shall be taking a trip out sometime after we have moved in to buy my bike hopefully. (mtb and mx) obviously coming from england i have no clue where is cheap and where isnt etc but im guna have a shop about. I think it might be worth taking a trip to Valley motosport down the road from me and just asking them if i can try out different sizes.

As for the helmets i have been looking about and seen a few i like, and im guna weigh up pro's and con's about having 2 helmets and 1 and look at costs etc and hopefully make a decision soon.

Thanks for all the help, you've all been great :)

[Ashley123]

cool, ya there is way too much info to list as far as how to go about it, but you have the right idea. Just dont listen to the sales guys, sit on the bikes and see what feels right to YOU. Definitely go used too,for example when I got my 2005 kx250, I got it for 3200. This was last year when the 06s were out, which cost about 6000 (and its the same exact bike).
So to sum up I say:
1- go used, so you save alot but not clapped out
2- 2stroke will be less maintenance/less money if something goes boom/ but not as fun power delivery as 4stroke for a beginner
3- 125/250/250f bikes will all have good suspension and relatively same seat heights

Ok thankyou, yeh i was going to look at used bikes for definate.
YEh thats what im worried about the sales man being like ah no you want this bike. im like NO i dont lol. But hopefully i will pop down there sometime soon. thanks again :)

[DH Diva]

that is totally inaccurate.


I tried using one helmet for both moto and DH racing for one season and the thing was absolutely worked. So no, my statement is not totally inaccurate. The more you wear it, if your riding both often, the more you sweat in it, the more you have to wash the pads, the more you take little diggers in it, the more you scratch, scuff, scrap the exterior, and the more chance for taking a hit that renders it needing replacement. If you destroy your one lid for two sports, you can't do much at all until you get a new lid. Considering a good MX helmet is in the $199+ range, thats a big bill, especially for a beginner rider who is going to be more prone to falling for the first few months of riding (both the MX and a MTB). I actually did use a MX helmet for DH, when I DH raced. So that is not my arguement. I feel that in this particular situation, a beginner rider would be better off having one helmet for each sport.

hmm am i actually going to fit on this 125 i want.

At 5'9" you will have zero problems finding a bike that fits. Like mentioned before, a 125 2 stroke is going to be roughly the same size as a 250 and a 450 4 stroke. I had to have mine lowered 1.75 inches, and have soft springs and re-valving done to get mine to fit. I can barely get the toes down now. If I only rode desert, I could have left the height stock and just done springs and the re-valve, but I spend a lot of time in the woods. A 250r 4 stroke would be a good bike for you as it is very managable in the woods, and great for the track. Some people will tell you it's too much bike to start on, but I don't really agree with that. As long as you keep it stock for awhile it will be pretty tame.

[Full Trucker]

There are currently THREE threads on the first page of the DH forum regarding helmets. Search function anyone? At any rate, here's a quote from another user explaining the difference between the standards used for MX vrs. DH helmets, and has some good info and insight.

ECE and DOT are not bad per say, but ASTM 1952 is very recent standard developed specifically for DH bicycle helmets. It is one of the only standards to accurately reflect the needs of our sport compared to older standards developed for motorcycles.

The soft "comfy" foam/fabric padding and the shell are not what actually protect your head. In a major impact, your head is saved by the hard EPS foam as it compresses and slows the impact down. The basic function of any helmet is that as your head hits another hard object, the EPS foam absorbs the energy of the impact by compressing (and sometimes cracking). This prevents that energy from being transmitted directly to your brain. Every other element of the helmet is there to somehow compliment the function of the EPS foam.

The shell is important because it helps hold the foam together during impact, but the shell itself is not able to absorb much impact. Also, in the case of DH/moto helmets, the shell is what provides stiffness for the chinbar. You don't want the chinbar to be so flexible that it just deflects into your face, so proper layup of the composite layers is important to reach adequate strength. ASTM 1952 specifically addresses chinbar stiffness so any helmet that meets this standard has been proven to show minimal deflection while the chinbar is impacted.

The inner padding is there for comfort and sweat absorption. Try wearing just that padding and hit your head on something. It does practically nothing for your safety.

Finally, the number of vents does not does not reflect a helmet's ability to absorb impact. Usually, as you increase the number/size of the vents, you also see the foam around those vents getting thicker to make up for it. Even though the Deviant has many more vents than the 661, it is still tested to (and surpasses) all the current standards. That means that during development, every location on the helmet is impacted against a variety of anvils (flat, curb shaped, and round) to certify the effectiveness of the helmet for any possible impact.

The reason you have standards is remove the subjective impressions of how safe a helmet "looks." People joke all the time about how frames look "flexy," but you should never have to judge a helmet's safety based solely on how it looks.

RE: dirtbike fit, I believe every "adult sized" dirtbike is about the same size right off the showroom floor, and at 5'9" I don't think you'll have any problems fitting a 125 2-stroke, 250 4-stroke, or even a 450 4-stroke.

2-strokes in general are just on the way out (Honda doesn't make ANY 2-stroke models anymore), but for a first dirtbike a 125 2-stroke would be a good way to go because they can be had on the CHEAP right now. You might also outgrow it in a season or two, and want something more. A 250 4-stroke would probably last you longer, and your skills and speed won't outgrow it as rapidly as a 125 2-stroke. Nearly everyone I know that started on a 125 2-stroke in the last few years found the bike to be grossly underpowered within a season of riding. The 250 4-stroke has a more managable torque than a 2-stroke, with an even power delivery across the entire range of the throttle. 2-strokes tend to have a bit of an "on or off" feeling with the throttle... but a lot of folks are 2-strokers for life because of that "HIT" when the powerband kicks in.

[Full Trucker]

More helmet info:

http://www.ridemonkey.com/forums/showthread.php?t=183558
http://www.ridemonkey.com/forums/showthread.php?t=184360

I've worn both MX and DH helmets for DH, but always MX helmets for MX of course. I've had a couple of pretty bad crashes in both DH and MX helmets, and who knows which is more protective or better or what, the standards are kind of confusing.

One thing I tend to think about DOT helmets is this: the DOT rating seems to be created with a road motorcycle crash in mind: very high-speed on pavement, where you are likely to slide and not impact something like a rock or a tree. Different types of crashes require different types of protection. Even on a MX track, you don't have sharp pointy rocks to fall on like you do in DH. My thoughts are that if you are going as fast on your DH bike as you are on a moto, then the trail you are on is probably wide open and not a lot of trees and obstacles in your way. If you are on a trail with sharp pointy obstacles then you're going slower(ish) and you need a helmet that works for both.

Do I have the answer? Nah... just more questions. That being said I've been wearing a D2 composite for the last couple of seasons for DH and a TLD SE for MX. Both have protected me very well. I just replaced the D2 with a brand new D2 carbon, and I just called TLD to see about what standards the D2 Carbon meets... seems there is some speculation that the D2 composite meets the ASTM 1952 but the carbon version does not.

[NapalmCheese]

Considering a good MX helmet is in the $199+ range, thats a big bill

Just as a side note, good is a relative term. Safe helmets can be had for $50 - $100 bucks. Once you get over that price range you are paying mostly for features, not safety. Any SNELL M2000 helmet is at least as safe as SNELL says it needs to be, and any DOT helmet is at least as safe as the DOT says it needs to be, regardless of price. More expensive helmets are lighter (which may or may not be safer), provide more options, better venting, better graphics and colors, and might have a smaller shell size. Typically your $50 dollar moto helmet is last years large, ugly, totally out of style, DOT certified moto helmet.

Maybe the expensive helmets have some special über secret science to them that makes them safer than their base model counterparts, but I'm not totally convinced of that.

[DH Diva]

Just as a side note, good is a relative term. Safe helmets can be had for $50 - $100 bucks. Once you get over that price range you are paying mostly for features, not safety. Any SNELL M2000 helmet is at least as safe as SNELL says it needs to be, and any DOT helmet is at least as safe as the DOT says it needs to be, regardless of price. More expensive helmets are lighter (which may or may not be safer), provide more options, better venting, better graphics and colors, and might have a smaller shell size. Typically your $50 dollar moto helmet is last years large, ugly, totally out of style, DOT certified moto helmet.

Yup, and if your going to be using it for mountain biking, the lighter more vented helmet is the way to go. The $50 MX helmet is going to be heavy, huge (like an olive on a tooth pick!), and hot and incredibley uncomfortable for mountain bike riding because of this.

[seth505]

I tried using one helmet for both moto and DH racing for one season and the thing was absolutely worked. So no, my statement is not totally inaccurate. The more you wear it, if your riding both often, the more you sweat in it, the more you have to wash the pads, the more you take little diggers in it, the more you scratch, scuff, scrap the exterior, and the more chance for taking a hit that renders it needing replacement. If you destroy your one lid for two sports, you can't do much at all until you get a new lid. Considering a good MX helmet is in the $199+ range, thats a big bill, especially for a beginner rider who is going to be more prone to falling for the first few months of riding (both the MX and a MTB). I actually did use a MX helmet for DH, when I DH raced. So that is not my arguement. I feel that in this particular situation, a beginner rider would be better off having one helmet for each sport.


1. any good quality helmet will last years, taking the interior out and washing it will not make it break down unless you are washing it in gas.
2. there is no direct correlation with using the helmet for two sports and it not lasting. If YOU used a helmet for both sports and it didnt last, then you probably crashed on it. If you don't wreck onto your head then the helmet will last indefinitely. Thats all I am saying.
3. If the good mx helmet is in the 199+ range, then simple math tells us a good mx helmet plus a mtb helmet will be alot more than 199+

[DH Diva]

1. any good quality helmet will last years

Most people will tell you that you shouldn't keep any quality helmet for MTB or MX for years. Aside from needing to replace a helmet after any significant contact with the ground, or multiple little diggers, helmets have a shelf life. You shouldn't even use an XC helmet after 5 years (even if you never crashed in it) because the materials they are made of begin to degrade and aren't as strong. Any manufacturer will tell you that. So, keeping and using any DH or MX helmet for years is a pretty stupid idea, but it's your head so by all means feel free.

3. If the good mx helmet is in the 199+ range, then simple math tells us a good mx helmet plus a mtb helmet will be alot more than 199+

Hey, if you have a $50 head, use a $50 helmet. DH and MX are not cheap sports. The more money you put into your safety equipment now, the less you will spend in the long run on medical bills. You just have to decided when you want to invest the $$, now or later.

[seth505]

yes that's true but a few years isn't as long as 5-6 years. Spending 2-300 on a safe helmet every 2 years or so is a good idea in my mind. That is ofcourse, without the fact you do need to replace it if you crash hard on it...that is a big if though. Personally, I prefer to ride dh without a helmet:brows:

[seth505]

Hey, if you have a $50 head, use a $50 helmet. DH and MX are not cheap sports. The more money you put into your safety equipment will save money in the long run on medical bills. You just have to decided when you want to invest the $$, now or later.

You are restating my point, which is spend more on a quality helmet instead of two cheaper helmets which 1. are not as safe and 2. cost you more money put together for less protection.

[DH Diva]

You are restating my point, which is spend more on a quality helmet instead of two cheaper helmets which 1. are not as safe and 2. cost you more money put together for less protection.

Nope. I'm not advocating buying two cheap helmets. I don't ever advocating buying cheap helmets. I'm saying in my opinion having a helmet that is dedicated to each sport is the better option. Yes it costs more. Like I said, doing these sports isn't cheap. But, I have tried both options and personally found that there were benefits to having a helmet for each.

[seth505]

ok, I can see that...I will agree to disagree. Either way, if you spend the money on proven helmets then each method will work out (ie: safe helmets)

[DH Diva]

ok, I can see that...I will agree to disagree. Either way, if you spend the money on proven helmets then each method will work out (ie: safe helmets)

It's all just different strokes for different folks. :)

And to the original poster, to stray from helmets for a moment, but in keeping with safety, the other vital piece of safety equipment that you should get before even throwing your leg over a dirt bike is a good set of boots. Don't be tempted to use your hiking boots even once! Best boots on the market for the money are Alpinestars Tech 6's (if these are just out of your price range, at minimum get some Tech 4's, still good, not quite the same durability). The Tech 6's are the best boot dollar for dollar. They also make a women's version of this boot called the stella. Same quality, different fit. They are stiff, and really last. Cheap boots rarely make it past a season without having some type of wear issue. Other safety equipment that should be invested in for MX are a good pair of knee cups, elbow guards, and a chest protector. Or get an under the jersey style "Jacket" like the dainese safety jacket or the 661 pressure suit. It all sounds like a lot, but if your just learning, you will lay the bike over and will be thankful that your wrapped in foam padding and plastic plates.

[NapalmCheese]

It all sounds like a lot, but if your just learning, you will lay the bike over and will be thankful that your wrapped in foam padding and plastic plates.

Or you'll be like me and lay the bike over and wish you had taken the time and spent the money to wrap yourself in foam padding plastic plates.

[DH Diva]

Or you'll be like me and lay the bike over and wish you had taken the time and spent the money to wrap yourself in foam padding plastic plates.

Nothing speaks like experience! You can reinforce why it's so important to outfit yourself correctly from the start! Hope you weren't hurt too bad.

[NapalmCheese]

Nothing speaks like experience! You can reinforce why it's so important to outfit yourself correctly from the start! Hope you weren't hurt too bad.

Just lots of bumps, bruises, scrapes and the occasional burn. Oh and twisted ankles (get the boots)... Worst accident I had was on the street. Looking at my helmet post accident I decided that full faces will always be the hot ticket when it comes to motorcycles.

Of course, convincing people that are new to the sport that their money is better spent on protective equipment first, and then a bike (motor or non) after is incredibly hard.

[Full Trucker]

Nothing speaks like experience!

Experience: the one thing you tend to get only a few short moments after you really need it.

[surfinguru]

Well, I'll toss my $.02 into the ring. I used to wear a Giro MadMaxII. Broke the chin bar on one and cracked the top on the other. I also got three really good concussions too.

After the last one, I stepped up and bought a TLD SE MX helmet. It's not too much heavier, not AS ventilated, but I can say it's kept me from getting at least two more concussions. It's about time for a new lid and you can bet I'll be getting another MX helmet.

For XC/trail riding, I wear a Giro Xen.

[Ashley123]

At 5'9" you will have zero problems finding a bike that fits. Like mentioned before, a 125 2 stroke is going to be roughly the same size as a 250 and a 450 4 stroke. I had to have mine lowered 1.75 inches, and have soft springs and re-valving done to get mine to fit. I can barely get the toes down now. If I only rode desert, I could have left the height stock and just done springs and the re-valve, but I spend a lot of time in the woods. A 250r 4 stroke would be a good bike for you as it is very managable in the woods, and great for the track. Some people will tell you it's too much bike to start on, but I don't really agree with that. As long as you keep it stock for awhile it will be pretty tame.

Thats good then, i thought it was going to be a nightmare finding the correct size at an affordable price. Thats what i would be looking for, good in the woods and great on the track too, so it might be worth looking at the 250's aswell then.

RE: dirtbike fit, I believe every "adult sized" dirtbike is about the same size right off the showroom floor, and at 5'9" I don't think you'll have any problems fitting a 125 2-stroke, 250 4-stroke, or even a 450 4-stroke.

2-strokes in general are just on the way out (Honda doesn't make ANY 2-stroke models anymore), but for a first dirtbike a 125 2-stroke would be a good way to go because they can be had on the CHEAP right now. You might also outgrow it in a season or two, and want something more. A 250 4-stroke would probably last you longer, and your skills and speed won't outgrow it as rapidly as a 125 2-stroke. Nearly everyone I know that started on a 125 2-stroke in the last few years found the bike to be grossly underpowered within a season of riding. The 250 4-stroke has a more managable torque than a 2-stroke, with an even power delivery across the entire range of the throttle. 2-strokes tend to have a bit of an "on or off" feeling with the throttle... but a lot of folks are 2-strokers for life because of that "HIT" when the powerband kicks in.

Ok thankyou, so by the sounds of it, its worth looking at both the 125's and the 250's now.

[Zutroy]

You are restating my point, which is spend more on a quality helmet instead of two cheaper helmets which 1. are not as safe and 2. cost you more money put together for less protection.

Actually that may not be an accurate answer. The companies are not required to post thier test results. No one knows how any helmet does in the test. Their have been rumors and i stress rumors for years that one of the cheap helmet companys helmets do as well in the tests as the big names, and there are a couple expensive big name companies helmets that barely past the test.

Don't confuse $ with protection. You're paying for weight, looks, and marketing with the the higher end brands.

[CKxx]

http://www.motorcyclistonline.com/gearbox/motorcycle_helmet_review/

Have a read through that also if you have not yet. It is probably what Zutroy was just referring to, except that is it not a 'rumor' of any sort.

The article also explains why being Snell approved may, in fact, be a bad trait.

[Iridemtb]

I'm debating upon whether to buy a DH helmet or moto x helmet.

I just got 2 concusions going around 30-35mph. What I'm unsure of is if 30-35mph is considered high speeds. I know a mx helmet will take fast, hard hits better, and I did hit hard, the one time I was knocked out.

So basically I'm using a 661 bravo..., which I'm done with, I need a new helmet not sure which one to get.

Suggestions please.