Why wouldn't you

[Iancider]

I've just been looking for a helmet and found an article from 2012

"£40 helment from Lidl, why wouldn't you - its a no-brainer!" 

That's just what I was worried about!!!!!

[Moleman]

If you are looking for one mate I think it's the ones with the gold kite mark is the ones to go for it my memory is right?
Though I may be wrong?
I paid about £150 for mine a few years back & it wasn't the cheapest one with that kite mark. I paid extra as it was made from a lighter material so it doesn't feel so heavy while doing 70mph sideways across a freshly ploughed field! 

[Iancider]

Ahh yes, Neck brace also required

[Dibbler]

Not all helmets are made the same... but more surprisingly, a £50 helmet can be better then a £500 helmet in a crash!

check out any helmet you want to buy (or have bought), it may not change your decisions, but forewarned is forearmed.

http://sharp.direct.gov.uk/

[Iancider]

Dibbler,

Thanks for the pointer that is really helpful.  I have just chosen the LS2 FF370 and ordered it - very good value and 4 star rated system helmet for £69.99 on-line.

Ian

[chris61]

Don't rely on the sharp test for an indication of safety. It only tests an impact of a sharp point in the top of the helmet. Unless you have an accident where the impact is on a spike only, it's a pretty useless test. Been bought up in the 2 wheeled world for quite a while.

[bluehornetrider]

After wearing helmets of different brands over the years I always promised myself a aria but could never justify the cost.  You need to look at what you will be using the lid for as there are lots of different designs.  Don't just go on looks, you can always get a lid painted.  I saw an ace lid painted like ironmans helmet including the visor. Another like the hulk!http://www.airgraffix.com/collections/ironman-helmets/products/mkv-ironman

[Dibbler]

Don't rely on the sharp test for an indication of safety. It only tests an impact of a sharp point in the top of the helmet. Unless you have an accident where the impact is on a spike only, it's a pretty useless test. Been bought up in the 2 wheeled world for quite a while.

Yes I agree, I'm also a biker & my Arai RX7 Corsair isn't great according to the sharp test yet most would agree its a very nice one indeed. 

The Sharp test does however give you a rough guide. A bit like the Haynes book of lies, it gives a starting point.

I'm sure you will also agree, the biggest thing is fit, if it doesn't fit & it costs £500 it will be worse than a £50'er that does fit.

That and avoid polycarbonate, it works fine as long as you don't knock it about, IMHO just go for fibreglass or one of the more exotic composites.

One last thought, don't buy Arai or Shoei unless you plan on spending that money for ever more, almost nothing else feels the same, I won't buy anything but Arai personally. My business partner wont wear anything but Shoei.

[chris61]

Don't rely on the sharp test for an indication of safety. It only tests an impact of a sharp point in the top of the helmet. Unless you have an accident where the impact is on a spike only, it's a pretty useless test. Been bought up in the 2 wheeled world for quite a while.

Yes I agree, I'm also a biker & my Arai RX7 Corsair isn't great according to the sharp test yet most would agree its a very nice one indeed. 

The Sharp test does however give you a rough guide. A bit like the Haynes book of lies, it gives a starting point.

I'm sure you will also agree, the biggest thing is fit, if it doesn't fit & it costs £500 it will be worse than a £50'er that does fit.

That and avoid polycarbonate, it works fine as long as you don't knock it about, IMHO just go for fibreglass or one of the more exotic composites.

One last thought, don't buy Arai or Shoei unless you plan on spending that money for ever more, almost nothing else feels the same, I won't buy anything but Arai personally. My business partner wont wear anything but Shoei.

I have a 'shoei' head. each brand has a slightly different shape. I got my shoei for a bargain price (mate was leaving bike shop etc) over my hjc the comfort, wind noise reduction etc is far better than the hjc. the hjc is a great helmet and I still use it and been happy with it. but the difference is very noticeable. but the cost is noticeable too!
Anything with a acu sticker has been tested. then its down to fit

['The Gaffer']

I have had an affinity with Shoei helmets over the years. They just fit me like a glove, wind noise and ventilation are just perfect for me. Not to mention comfort.

You defiantly know you have spent good money on a great helmet compared to a cheapie, but they are just as safe according to the stickers, but personally comfort and design plays a big role in overall satisfaction.