Vintage motorcycle helmet: how to choose?

Attention all fans of "old-fashioned" motorcycles! If you are a retro two wheeler lover, you are undoubtedly looking for a vintage helmet that will allow you to show off your unique style on your next outings. A vintage helmet is a stylish accessory that is reminiscent of popular models from the 70s (the most famous of which is a jet helmet). Moreover, it is widely represented at conventions and other events related to motorcycles. What about security? And above all, how to choose it? In this article, we will answer these questions and help you see them more clearly.

Vintage motorcycle helmet: getting more popular ... and more reliable!

Until a few years ago, it was difficult to find a vintage motorcycle helmet that offered you optimal protection as most of the equipment was exposed. It is true that when choosing a style, we first of all neglected the aspect of safety of this accessory, as well as comfort. In addition, vintage motorcycle enthusiasts were forced to opt for equipment that left them at the mercy of the weather and wind, or forgo looks in order to enjoy greater comfort and safety.

But today, thanks to the enthusiasm generated by two-wheeled retro, helmet manufacturers are making more and more efforts to offer bikers retro helmets that are safer and more comfortable. Today we find vintage motorcycle helmets on Classic Ride in full version, offering optimal safety. Here's a trend that fans of big retro cars will love!

Vintage and proven helmets, do they exist?

As we've just seen, there are more and more vintage helmets on the market. Thus, most of the models are homologated. Indeed, in the Classic Ride, for example, you can find equipment that complies with the ECE 22-05 standard, which takes into account, inter alia, protection at the jaw level, shock absorption, viewing angle, abrasion resistance, screen quality or impact. deformation.

Thus, like more traditional helmets, vintage helmets undergo a large number of laboratory tests to be approved. Moreover, if you want to know more about the approval of your equipment, know that it is indicated on a small label that can be found on the chin strap.

Also note that some vintage helmets also have the official American and Canadian DOT standard, however this is not sufficient for legal riding in France.

A few tips to help you choose a vintage motorcycle helmet

As you probably understood, the first criterion for choosing a vintage helmet is its approval. Therefore, if you plan to ride with this equipment (and not just wear it during competition), it is important to choose a model that complies with the ECE 22-05 standard. The DOT standard is an additional guarantee of quality. However, there are other parameters to consider in order to purchase an accessory that is perfect for you. Here's what to think about:

• Appearance: To give your bike's handlebars the ultimate in style, choose a helmet that matches your racing car in both color and shape.

• Comfort: we have mentioned this parameter several times in this article. Indeed, it is very important to feel comfortable in a motorcycle helmet. Therefore, it should be selected according to its size. To do this, all you have to do is measure the circumference of the head and refer to the manual. Are you oscillating between two dimensions? In this case, it is better to choose a smaller size. Indeed, the foam inside the helmet tends to settle during use.

• Weight: this criterion also affects comfort. Therefore, choose a vintage motorcycle helmet no more than 1,8 kg.