Do you ride a motorcycle? If so, it is important to wear a helmet. It can save your life in the event of an accident. But what do you know about your helmet’s construction? What is your motorcycle helmet made out of?
The traditional material used to make helmets was fiberglass, but over the years technological advances have been made in materials used. Today most helmets are made of strong plastics and advanced composites which provide higher levels of protection, comfort and safety than ever before.
Motorcycle helmets are designed to absorb and distribute the impact energy from a crash over as wide an area as possible. To do this effectively, they are usually constructed with multiple layers of different advanced materials such as expanded polystyrene foam (EPS), thermoplastics or Kevlar. In this article we will explore what makes up a motorcycle helmet, and how they provide such effective protection for motorcyclists on the road.
A Matter of Materials: Enhancing Motorcycle Helmet Effectiveness
When it comes to motorcycle helmets, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The type of helmet you choose should be based on several factors, including the climate you ride in, the type of motorcycle you ride, and your personal preferences.
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a motorcycle helmet is the material it is made from. The most common materials used in motorcycle helmets are polycarbonate, ABS plastic, carbon fiber, Kevlar, and fiberglass.
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Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate is a lightweight, durable material that is often used in the construction of motorcycle helmets. It is available in a variety of colors and can be easily molded into different shapes. Polycarbonate is also resistant to UV light and has a high impact resistance. However, polycarbonate can become brittle over time and may crack or shatter if it is dropped or hit hard enough.
Pros:
- Polycarbonate is one of the most affordable helmet materials.
- It is also lightweight, which can be a major advantage for riders who are looking for a comfortable helmet.
Cons:
- Polycarbonate is not as durable as some of the other materials used in motorcycle helmets.
- It also does not offer as much protection from impact forces as some of the other materials.
ABS plastic
ABS plastic is a common material used in the construction of helmets.
Pros
- It is strong and lightweight, making it a popular choice for many riders.
Cons
- However, ABS plastic can be susceptible to cracking and breaking under certain conditions.
- It is also not as flexible as some other materials, which can make it more difficult to adjust the fit of your helmet.
Carbon Fiber
Pros
- Carbon fiber is one of the most popular helmet materials on the market today.
- It is strong and lightweight, making it ideal for racing and other high-speed activities.
- Carbon fiber helmets are also very comfortable and can be customized to fit your head perfectly.
Cons
There are a few things to keep in mind when considering a carbon fiber helmet.
- First, because they are so light, they do not offer as much protection as heavier helmets.
- Second, carbon fiber helmets can be expensive.
- Third, because they are so light, they can be more difficult to keep on your head in the event of an accident.
If you are looking for a lightweight and comfortable helmet for racing or other high-speed activities, carbon fiber is a great option. Just be sure to keep in mind the trade-offs listed above before making your final decision.
Kevlar
Kevlar is a material that is often used in bulletproof vests and other body armor. It is made from synthetic fibers that are woven together to form a fabric.
Pros
- Kevlar helmets offer superior protection against impact and penetration.
- Kevlar is extremely strong and durable, making it an ideal choice for helmets.
- It is also lightweight, which makes it comfortable to wear for long periods of time.
Cons
- Kevlar helmets can be expensive, and they may not be as durable as fiberglass
Fiberglass
Fiberglass is a popular material for helmets due to its strength and durability. It is a strong, lightweight material that has been used in the construction of motorcycle helmets for many years.
Pros:
- Fiberglass helmets offer excellent protection from impact forces.
- They are also very durable and can withstand multiple impacts without sustaining damage.
Cons:
- Fiberglass helmets are often heavy and can be uncomfortable for some riders.
- They are also more expensive than polycarbonate or Kevlar helmets.
- Additionally, fiberglass is not as flexible as some other materials, so it may not provide as much protection in the event of a crash.
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What to Consider When Choosing a Helmet Material
When it comes to choosing a helmet material, weight, strength and flexibility are important factors to consider.
Weight
Helmet materials can vary greatly in terms of weight, with some being very lightweight and others quite heavy. Heavier helmets will provide more protection in the event of a crash, but they can also be more uncomfortable to wear for long periods of time. As a general rule, lighter materials tend to be more expensive
Strength
Strength is another important consideration. Some materials are much stronger than others, meaning they can better protect your head in the event of an impact. Again, stronger materials often come with a higher price tag.
Flexibility
Flexibility is another factor to keep in mind. Some materials are very flexible, while others are quite stiff. Flexible materials may offer more comfort, but may not provide as much protection in an accident. Stiffer materials may provide better protection, but may be less comfortable to wear.
Impact resistance
This is important because it determines how well the helmet will protect your head in the event of a crash. Some materials like Kevlar are designed to absorb and dissipate impact energy, while others like steel are designed to resist penetration.
The level of impact resistance that you need will depend on your intended use for the helmet. If you plan on using it for racing or off-road riding, you’ll need a helmet with a higher level of impact resistance. If you’re only planning on using it for casual riding, a lower level of impact resistance may be sufficient.
Price Range
When it comes to choosing a helmet material, one of the most important factors to consider is price. Helmet materials can range in price from relatively inexpensive to quite costly. So, it’s important to have a budget in mind when shopping for a new helmet.
Of course, the price of a helmet is not always indicative of its quality. There are plenty of high-quality helmets made from less expensive materials. And there are also some very pricey helmets made from lower-quality materials. So, it’s important to do your research and read reviews before making a purchase.
In general, though, here are some rough price ranges for popular helmet materials:
• Plastic: $20-$100
• Composite: $100-$300
• Carbon fiber: $200-$600+
Ultimately, the best helmet material for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Be sure to consider all of the factors mentioned above before making your final decision.
Conclusion
In conclusion, selecting the right helmet material for your safety is an important task. Before making a decision, it’s essential to consider all of the factors that go into each material type and what their pros and cons are. Each rider needs to determine which material will best suit their individual requirements when it comes to protection, comfort, longevity etc. With so many different materials available on the market today, doing research beforehand can help you make an informed choice when buying a new helmet for yourself or someone else.