Sunday, June 30, 2013

Iron Horse Helmets Dating Service

This is the quality we get when we put out a pay service called Iron Horse Helmets Dating Service.

I guess we got to play the hand I'm dealt.....

Guys, this lady is named Bertha.

Turn on's- Food & Crotch Rockets.
Turn Off- Vegans
Favorite TV Show - Cooking with the Stars
Dream Man - Enimen
Favorite Song - Convoy
Favorite Movie- The Big Lebowski  

Please let me know if you can handle such love.
  

Friday, June 28, 2013

Rules For Dating My Daughter T-Shirt change

We have sold a lot of the Rules For Dating My Daughter T-Shirt.  We had just one problem, we did not think the rules were the least bit funny.....So we changed them.  Check out our new Rules For Dating My Daughter T-Shirt.








1. Make my daughter cry, I make you cry
2. I love my daughter, I hate you
3. I own a Glock
4. If you're not early, you're late
5. Treat her like a princess, or I treat you like stuff I scrape off my boot
6. Hurt my daughter, take your whupping like a man - I hate all that begging crap
7. Don't even think about her like "that"
8. My daughter is an angel, you are the devil
9. It is always your fault
10. I don't mind going back to prison

Thursday, June 27, 2013

HJC RPHA-10 Jorge Lorenzo Replica Monser Motorcycle Helmet

We now have a motorcycle helmet for people with a lot of money to spend:

HJC RPHA-10 Lorenzo Replica Helmet
Item Code : 
HJCRPHA10Lorenzo
Color : Multi (Red, White, Black & Green)
Brand : HJC
Certifications : DOT-218/SNELL M2010
Construction : Advanced P.I.M. Fiberglass
Weight : 3.32lbs/1,505g (approximate based on size medium solid color)

Shield Type : HJ-20 (comes with a Pinlock-ready HJ-20 clear shield and lens)
HJC Helmet Features :All RPHA helmets feature HJC's Premium Integrated Matrix (PIM) construction, which incorporates three different materials—carbon fiber, aramid fiber and fiberglass—to create a unique woven blend that is both remarkably strong and lighter compared to conventional helmet materials. Precisely sized segments of PIM material are carefully hand-laid into special pre-molds for shaping, and the controlled placement of these layers virtually eliminates unneeded overlap of fibers for a more precise forming process. All of which results in a shell weight that is significantly lighter than competing designs for greater rider comfort.
To create these modern, complex shell designs, HJC employed CAD design and rapid-prototyping technology, along with extensive testing of multiple prototypes within HJC's state-of-the-art wind tunnel. Net result: carefully controlled aerodynamic airflow around the helmet for a smooth and quiet riding experience along with superior, well-controlled flow-though ventilation for additional rider comfort.

Because small details count when you're out riding all day long, these helmets incorporate features such as plush, luxurious interiors with self-cooling properties and an antibacterial treatment. Also, the interior pads are removable, washable and replaceable. In addition, since fine aesthetics elevate the pride of ownership, a whole new process for creating high-quality helmet graphics was created for use with these helmets. The RPHA series also feature HJC's substantial five-year warranty, and much more. With the new RPHA series of advanced-concept helmets, HJC has truly reinvented the parameters of helmet performance. But perhaps best of all, because the creation of these helmets benefits from the very latest and most efficient manufacturing processes, the HJC RPHA series brings features and technology to consumers at a price point that offers significant value. With HJC, being number one in the world among all helmet manufacturers means there's never time to stop developing new ways to do it better—better by design.
The center-locking shield system on the HJC RPHA 10 and HJC RPHA Max produces a secure seal, and the shield itself is Pinlock®-ready and mounts via HJC's RapidFire™II Shield Replacement System. This simple and secure shield-ratchet system features a spring-loaded feature that firmly retains the shield in place during use. In addition, it also provides ultra-quick, tool-less shield removal and installation for efficient operation.
Inside, the HJC RPHA series helmets incorporate ultra-plush, premium interiors that are fully removable, washable and moisture-wicking, with a special antibacterial ginkgo extract that helps fight odor buildup in the lining. The HJC RPHA 10 features the vaunted SilverCool Plus™ interior, while the HJC RPHA Max and HJC RPHA X incorporate the newly created Cool4Ever™ interior with enhanced wicking properties that was developed specifically for off-road applications. All three of the HJC RPHA series helmets also feature variable air intake vents that are easily adjusted to suit riding conditions. HJC's Advanced Channeling Ventilation System gives full front-to-back airflow to flush out heat and humidity. Top it all off with an industry-leading five-year warranty on materials and workmanship, and it becomes patently obvious that the new HJC RPHA 10, HJC RPHA Max and HJC RPHA X have literally advanced the state of the art in helmet design.

Advanced P.I.M. (Premium Integrated Matrix) Fiberglass Fiberglass composite shell made from a blend of carbon fiber, fiberglass, aramid and organic non-woven fabric
Max Airflow Top Vent 
Six-Stage variable airflow is adjusted by glove-friendly dials on each intake vent

ACS Advanced Channeling Ventilation System
Full front-to-back airflow flushes heat and humidity out of the interior
SilverCool Plus™ Interior
Soft, moisture-wicking and odor-free interior with ginkgo extract and advanced silver antibacterial fabric. Crown and cheek pads are 
fully removable and washable.
Rapidfire™II Shield Replacement System
Simple and secure shield ratchet system provides ultra-quick, tool-less removal and installation for efficient operation

Pinlock Prepared HJ-20 Shield 
Optically superior Pinlock®-prepared 2D face shield provides 95% UV protection Innovative center one-touch open/close locking system 
is designed for an extremely secure seal. Simple and secure RapidFire™ shield replacement system offers ultra-quick, tool-less removal and installation. Pinlock® fog-resistant lens included.
Optional Pinlock Prepared 2D Flat Racing Shield With Tearoff Post 
Innovative center one-touch open/close locking system is designed for an extremely secure seal

Built-In Communication Speaker Pockets
Clear Pinlock® Lens Included
Breath Guard and Chin Curtain Included

HJC Helmet Size Chart :
Wrap a tape measure horizontally around your forehead. Select the helmet that is the closest fit to that size. A helmet should fit snug on your head. If it moves while wearing, it is too large. If it is painful to wear, it is too small.
Size Chart
SizeCentimeterHat SizeInches
2X-Small51-526 3/8 - 6 1/220 - 20 1/2
X-Small53-546 5/8 - 6 3/420 7/8 - 21 1/4
Small55-566 7/8 - 721 5/8 - 22
Medium57-587 1/8 - 7 1/422 1/2 - 23 1/8
Large59-607 3/8 - 7 1/223 1/4 - 23 5/8
X-Large61-627 5/8 - 7 3/424 - 24 3/8
2X-Large63-647 7/8 - 824 3/4 - 25 1/4
3X-Large65-668 1/8 - 8 1/425 5/8 - 26

HJC RPHA-10 Helmet Reviews :
“… With its quietness, luxury interior and deluxe shield changing the RPS-10 has the feel and fit of a top-line hat…” -Rider Magazine
“… We were very impressed with the HJC RPS-10. The company has often been perceived as one of the second-tier helmet manufacturers as far as performance and quality- but we think that’s going to change with the new RPS-10…” - SportRider Magazine
“… Aviation-style vents flow air across your temples for efficient cooling. Hundreds of hours in the wind tunnel ensure the helmet cuts through the air without turbulence…” - MotorCyclist Magazine
“… Improved aerodynamics, a snugger seal along the bottom of the cheeks and a thick chin curtain seal out wind and make the RPS-10 noticeably quieter than the FS-15- fully 4 decibels quieter, according to HJC. At speed the helmet exhibits excellent stability and cuts through the air without buffeting, even when you turn your head to check our six at triple-digit speeds. Large vents on the helmet’s brow flow big air and are easily operated with gloves on; slide your hand rearward to open the vents and forward to close them…” - MotorCyclist Magazine
“… The quality of this helmet with regards to the graphics and clear coat is phenomenal. If you’ve had one of HJC’s models in the lower price range and perhaps haven’t been totally satisfied with it then this is an opportunity for you to check out the RPS-10. The fit-n-finish is superb and easily sets the RPS-10 as the leader in HJC’s product lineup. Competing against the likes of Arai, Shoei and other premium helmet manufacturers is a difficult task but one that HJC has taken head on and is winning…” -www.2wf.com

Wednesday, June 26, 2013

Are Novelty Motorcycle Helmets Legal?


We get asked many times if novelty helmets are legal motorcycle helmets. Well,  it really depends on the state you are in.  

We are in the great state of Alabama and I thought that novelty helmet were not legal here.  Yesterday, we had this state trooper stop by and purchase a novelty helmet for his new HD.... Do you like my blurring?  I guess I should of asked him if the helmet was legal.  

The Oscar the Grouch Helmet Covers are Finally Here

Oscar the Grouch Helmet Cover
Oscar the Grouch Helmet Cover

Oscar the Grouch Motorcycle Helmet Cover
Our Oscar the Grouch Motorcycle Helmet Cover are finally here!  Finally!!!

Tuesday, June 25, 2013

Motorcycle injuries worsen with weaker helmet law

WASHINGTON -- The average medical claim from a motorcycle crash rose by more than one-fifth last year in Michigan after the state stopped requiring all riders to wear motorcycle helmets, according to an insurance industry study. Across the nation, motorcyclists opposed to mandatory motorcycle  helmet use have been chipping away at state helmet laws for years while crash deaths have been on the rise.

For more than 40 years, Michigan required all motorcycle riders to wear motorcycle helmets. State legislators changed the law last year so that only riders younger than 21 must wear helmets. The average insurance payment on a motorcycle injury claim was $5,410 in the two years before the law was changed, and $7,257 after it was changed -- an increase of 34 percent, the study by the Highway Loss Data Institute found.

After adjusting for the age and type of motorcycle, rider age, gender, marital status, weather and other factors, the actual increase was about 22 percent relative to a group of four comparative states, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio and Wisconsin, the study found.

"The cost per injury claim is significantly higher after the law changed than before, which is consistent with other research that shows riding without a motorcycle  helmet leads to more head injuries," said David Zuby, chief research officer for the data institute and an affiliated organization, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The data institute publishes insurance loss statistics on most car, SUV,pickup truck and motorcycle models on U.S. roads.

While other studies have shown an increase motorcycle deaths after states eliminate or weaken mandatory motorcycle helmet requirements, the industry study is the first to look specifically at the effect of repealing helmet requirements on the severity of injuries as measured by medical insurance claims, Zuby said.

Some states have sought to mitigate the repeal or loosening of mandatory motorcycle helmet laws by setting minimum medical insurance requirements, but "that doesn't even come close to covering the lifelong care of somebody who is severely brain-injured and who cannot work and who is going to be on Medicaid and a ward of the state," said Jackie Gillan, president of Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety, which backs mandatory helmet requirements for all riders.

Jeff Hennie, vice president of the Motorcycle Riders Foundation, dismissed the study, saying the insurance industry views motorcycle  helmets as "the silver bullet that's going to change the landscape of motorcycle safety." He said insurers are upset because "life has gotten more expensive for them and they have to pay out more."

"The fact is our highways are bloody," Hennie said. "This (the Michigan motorcycle helmet law change) doesn't make motorcycle helmets illegal. ... No one is forcing anyone to ride without a motorcycle helmet."

Vince Consiglio, president of American Bikers Aimed Toward Education of Michigan, blamed the increase in the severity of injuries on bikers who don't take safety courses required to obtain a special motorcycle license. He said bikers without motorcycle licenses have made up an increasingly larger share of fatalities and injuries in recent years.

But Gillan said the study "clearly shows there is no such thing as a free ride, and the public is paying the cost for this."

There's no way to know how many of the Michigan claims involved motorcyclists not wearing motorcycle helmets, the study said. But another recent study by the University of Michigan's Transportation Research Institute found a significant increase in motorcyclists involved in crashes who weren't wearing motorcycle  helmets after the law changed. From April 13, 2012, the first full day after the change took effect, through the end of the year, 74 percent of motorcyclists involved in crashes were wearing motorcycle helmets, compared with 98 percent in the same period for the previous four years, the study found.

Nationally, motorcycle deaths have risen in 14 of the past 15 years, with more than 5,000 deaths last year, according to an analysis by the Governors Highway Safety Association of preliminary 2012 data. That's the highest proportion motorcycles have ever represented of overall traffic deaths, more than 14 percent, the association said.

Currently, 19 states and the District of Columbia require all motorcyclists to wear a motorcycle helmet, 28 states require only some motorcyclists -- usually younger or novice riders -- to wear a motorcycle helmet, and three states have no motorcycle  helmet use law. States have been gradually repealing or weakening mandatory helmet laws for nearly two decades.

In 1967, to increase motorcycle motorcycle  helmet use, the federal government required that states enact helmet laws in order to qualify for certain federal safety programs and highway construction aid. The federal incentive worked. By the early 1970s, almost all states had motorcycle motorcycle helmet laws that covered all riders. In 1976, Congress stopped the Transportation Department from assessing financial penalties on states without motorcycle helmet laws, and state lawmakers began repealing the statutes.


In 1991, Congress created new incentives for states to enact motorcycle helmet and seat belt laws, but reversed itself four years later.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which sent observers to states last year to count how many motorcyclists wore motorcycle helmets, found that 97 percent of motorcyclists in states with universal helmet laws were wearing motorcycle helmets compared with 58 percent of motorcyclists in states without such coverage.


By JOAN LOWY, Associated Press

Monday, June 24, 2013

New Funny Top 10 Gun Safety Tips Shirt

We would like to thank Jamie Hackney for sending us this awesome Funny Top 10 Gun Safety Tips Shirt idea:
Here are the rules: 
  1. Always keep your gun pointed in a safe direction, such as at a hippy or a communist.
  2. Dumb children may get a hold of your guns and shoot each other. If your children are dumb, put them up for adoption to protect your guns.
  3. No matter how responsible he seems, never give your gun to a monkey.
  4. If guns make you nervous, drink a fifth of whiskey before heading to the range.
  5. When upholstering your weapon, it is customary to say, “Excuse me while I whip this out!”
  6. Don’t load your gun unless you are ready to shoot something or someone, or are just feeling generally angry.
  7. If your gun mis-fires, never look down the barrel to inspect it. Have someone else do that for you.
  8. Never use your gun to pistol-whip someone. This could mar the finish.
  9. No matter how excited you are about buying your first gun, do not run around yelling, “I have a gun! I have a gun!”
  10. And the most important rule of gun safety: Don’t piss me off!

Saturday, June 22, 2013

Motorcycle Helmet Liners

We get many calls from people asking us to redo the interior of one of their old motorcycle helmets.  We don't do that.  We usually tell them to just call some cheap upholstery shop....But not anymore.  We found Hell Mutt's Custom Motorcycle & Snowmobile Helmet Lining Design and we are impressed. Check out some of this guys work:




Friday, June 21, 2013

Tim Needs a Wife

Tim wanted the I survived the gun control scare of 2013 and all I got was this T-Shirt, but he does not have a wife.  Here you go!  Please e-mail us if you need a custom one.
I survived the gun control scare of 2013 and all I got was this T-SHIRT

Thursday, June 20, 2013

10 Rules for Dating My Daughter T-Shirt

10 funny rules for dating my daughter shirt
We would like to thank John Bourgeois for sending us the image of this custom T-shirt that he wanted. We made John a 10 Rules for Dating My Daughter T-Shirt and it is hilarious.
10 funny rules for dating my daughter shirt

10 funny rules for dating my daughter shirt
10 funny rules for dating my daughter shirt




Wednesday, June 19, 2013

Frank Baptista loves Iron Horse Helmets

Todd, I received the helmet and it is great. I painted it last night, here is a pic. Thanks again for reaching out to help, I am a loyal Ironhorse customer.

Frank Baptista

Tuesday, June 18, 2013

Motorcycle Half Helmets Or Shorty Helmets And What You Should Look For


Motorcycle half helmets, or "shorty" helmets are basically shaped like half a sphere. The front is like an open face helmet, but the back is raised as well, giving the helmet a bowl shape. While there are half helmets approved by the US Department of Transportation (DOT), there are as yet no half helmets that meet Snell standards. Riders who wear half helmets give up some degree of safety, so it is extremely important that they fit properly and meet DOT standards so that the rider gets the most protection possible from his or her half helmet.

That said, there are many riders, particularly riders of choppers or cruisers, who love the look of half helmets and enjoy the feeling of freedom they give on a bike. Half helmets can be much more comfortable in warm weather, particularly if they include vents. For colder weather, some half helmets come with detachable earmuffs and neck curtains. Half helmets may have a snap-on visor, or a semblance of a visor built in to the structure of the helmet itself. Some take face shields and some feature goggle straps on the back.

Polo style half helmets have the visor built into the profile of the helmet itself, but there are half helmets with no visor at all, and that may or may not accommodate snap-on visors. Beanie style half helmets are very simple, and that's just the way some riders like them. Other advantages of half helmets include their much lighter weight, the fact that the lines of the helmets do not interfere with peripheral vision. At low speeds, half helmets allow riders to hear traffic better and communicate with other riders better in the absence of electronic communications systems.

Disadvantages of motorcycle half helmets mainly center around the lower degree of protection they offer because the rider's chin and face are exposed. They can be cold in cold weather, even with earmuffs. Half helmets without shields or visors provide no vision protection, so goggles or glasses are recommended for optimal vision and protection. Riders should bear in mind that two-thirds of multiple vehicle motorcycle crashes are the results of the other vehicle violating the motorcycle's right of way, and that appropriate safety gear cuts down greatly on crash injuries.

Monday, June 17, 2013

I survived the gun control scare of 2013 and all I got was this T-SHIRT

I survived the gun control scare of 2013 and I got was this T-SHIRT
AR Powercord (cool last name) thanked us for the cool fathers day gift.  We loved being thanked!

Sunday, June 16, 2013

Motorcycle Helmets Can Help In A Tornado

In the aftermath of the vicious spring storms ripping through the Midwest, there has been quite a bit of discussion in regards to the building of safe rooms or safe shelters, especially in schools. Taking both time and money to accomplish this task, there may be a less expensive and immediate option that can make a difference now. Helmets, whether they are sport helmets, motorcycle helmets, even bicycle helmets have been reported as making a difference in survival rates of those in the path of a severe storm.

When reading survival stories after the recent massive tornado in Oklahoma, many of those who escaped serious injury were wearing helmets. Not only did the storm victims seek the nearest shelter, they also had some sort of safety helmet on their heads.

After tornadoes swept through Alabama and Georgia in 2011, Fox 5 in Atlanta was one of the first news agencies to report on the importance of wearing helmets, even motorcycle helmets, during dangerous weather conditions. Russ Fine of the University of Alabama at Birmingham stated that of the 248 people who were killed, “Not surprising, almost half had died principally because of severe head injuries.

Two stories were noted by Fox 5 in Atlanta as perfect examples of how a helmet can help in a tornado. One of the stories was about Birmingham police officer, Mike Culberson, who wore his motorcycle helmet during a tornado as trees crashed down on his house and heavy beams blew through the ceiling on top of his head. The other story was about a young man named Noah Stewart. As Noah and his family were sucked out of their home during a tornado, it was reported that Noah flew as high as a telephone pole and landed a far distance away. Noah was wearing his baseball helmet, and that probably saved his life.

Full Face Motorcycle helmets with a DOT (Department of Transportation) safety rating can be purchased for $99 or even as low as $69 for unsold older models and can really make a difference not only during a motorcycle accident but also when a tornado rips through town.

Friday, June 14, 2013

How do we make motorcycle helmets?

Do you want a behind the scenes view of our helmet molding process?  We are in the process of producing the predator motorcycle helmet.

1st we start with a wooden carving or a clay molding like this:
predator motorcycle helmet mold

predator motorcycle helmet mold

predator motorcycle helmet mold

2nd we take a reverse mold from the wood or clay helmet mold:
predator motorcycle helmet cast

predator motorcycle helmet cast

predator motorcycle helmet cast
Finally we take sample helmet and start the testing:
predator motorcycle helmet

predator motorcycle helmet




Thursday, June 13, 2013

Chrome Skull Novelty Motorcycle Helmet

Our Chrome Skull Novelty Motorcycle Helmets are almost done.  How do you think they look?

Wednesday, June 12, 2013

Oscar the Grouch Motorcycle Helmet Cover


Our Oscar the Grouch Motorcycle Helmet Covers will be here in about 15 days.   We are excited and we are already taking orders. Get your now...Or don't.  

 Do you want one? Not me, I would not be caught dead wearing this thing!


Tuesday, June 11, 2013

Motorcycle Helmet Brake Light

At what price would you consider this product?  Personally, I would not buy it.

Give your brain bucket a 21st century upgrade with Signal, Quirky's first contribution to motorcycle safety. Signal is an adjustable attachment that incorporates wireless brake lights and turn signals into any full-face or open-face helmet. It fits securely without the need for hardware or adhesive, and easily syncs with your motorcycle's lights via RFID signals. To minimize bulk, Signal's indicators are made of a fiber-optic fabric called Lumigram , which emits brilliant bursts of light while remaining flexible and lightweight. It might be the coolest thing to happen to motorcycles since Easy Rider.






Monday, June 10, 2013

Sunday, June 9, 2013

Design Your Own T-Shirt

Did you know that you can pay us to make a t-shirt that says anything you wish?  Jason Garret decided he wanted t-shirts that say the above.  Here you go!  Enjoy.

Saturday, June 8, 2013

The Rise of Antilock Braking Systems in Motorcycles


The Rise of Antilock Braking Systems in Motorcycles
Last year, the European Union drafted legislation to make antilock braking systems a required technology in motorcycles starting in 2016. Consequently, many global motorcycle manufacturers are beginning to integrate the technology more frequently in larger bikes and mid-level bikes, according to Consumer Reports. Antilock braking systems increase a motorcyclist’s safety. Safety is a huge concern, especially since a large portion of traffic accidents worldwide are among motorcyclists.
Antilock braking systems allow for the motorcyclist to apply much force on the brakes without worrying if the wheels will lock up. Without the technology, a wheel could lock if the brakes are hit too hard or if the rider applies the wrong front/rear distribution on the brakes. This is a common way motorcyclists lose control and fall off the bike. Antilock braking systems, however, reduce pressure again when the biker gains control. In a bike with antilock brakes, normal braking performance isn’t affected by the system, and it’s only noticeable in an emergency situation. The antilock braking system can be used in both conventional and combined braking systems.
Motorcycles equipped with antilock braking systems have a 31 percent less chance of becoming involved in a deadly accident than those same models without them, according to aInsuranceInstitute for Highway Safety (IIHS) brochure. According to the IIHS, motorcyclists who utilize antilock braking systems file collision insurance claims 20 percent less often than motorcyclists without the technology. Further, collision claims for motorcyclists with antilock braking systems and combined controls are filed 31 percent frequently. The brochure also illuminated test track performance, in which motorcycles with antilock braking systems have been proven to stop more quickly. These motorcycles are also superior with stopping distances on both wet and dry surfaces.
Despite press and evidence in favor of antilock braking systems, many members of the motorcycling community have conflicting views on the value of the technology, the New York Daily News reports. A lot of motorcycles say the technology is a waste of money because it’s not fail-safe. They say it’s not beneficial for new riders because they would not know what to do in variousriding conditions if the technology were to fail. The riders become reliant on it, they say. Still, proponents argue that antilock brakes prevent accidents and further guarantee the safety of motorcyclists.
Globally, antilock braking systems are slowly taking over. Research of fatal crash statistics, insurance claims and test track runs demonstrate that antilock braking systems are an effective means of improving road safety for motorcyclists. Even though many dispute its usefulness, antilock braking systems will continue to gain exposure.

By: Sarah Parr

Friday, June 7, 2013

Motorcycle Helmet Horns

Our new motorcycle helmet horns are here They attach to any helmet with a suction cup, and can be glued or otherwise permanently secured.




Now you can get your own Devil Horns for your Motorcycle and Scooter Helmets!
No need for anyone to customize your helmet and no need to permanently alter your helmet. These easily attach and detach to and from any motorcycle helmet. Just wet and stick the suction cups to any smooth part of your helmet, and you are ready to go.

* No Drilling, No Screwing, No Sticky Residue
* Removable & Reusable
* Will not damage your Helmet
* Flexible and soft
* Made from thick rubber
* Road tested
* Designed to stay on in the wind, yet come off with direct pressure. If they hit an external object or you crash they will come off instead of knocking you around.
* Light weight, 1 horn weights only 40 grams
* Can be used as Devil Horns, Demon Horns, Animal Horns, Animal Tusks, Spikes, or anything you can think of.
* Available in Red, Black, and White.
* Combine colors to make unique helmet designs

Thursday, June 6, 2013

Benefits of Carbon Fiber Motorcycle Helmets


Although the research and development of helmet technology began in the 1930’s, it wasn't until the mid to late-1950’s that carbon fiber technology was introduced. What was once a problematic and inefficient development, lead to one of the strongest fibers to be used in motorcycle helmet construction.

What sets carbon fiber technology apart from other materials is the alignment of atoms that make up the material. The carbon fiber itself typically measures only 5 micrometers in diameter and consists of mostly carbon atoms. The atoms bond together in a crystal alignment that runs parallel to the long axis of the fiber. This unique composition creates an extremely strong fiber for its size. Large pieces of carbon fiber material are produced by bundling thousands of these smaller fibers together and weaving them into a fabric. It can then be combined with a plastic resin, creating the carbon fiber reinforced polymer known as carbon fiber.

When carbon fiber technology was introduced to motorcycle helmets, the benefits to riders increased drastically:

Strength

Carbon fiber motorcycle helmets are stronger than those made with other commonly used materials. It can also be combined easily with other strong materials like Kevlar to create a stronger helmet shell. Carbon fiber motorcycle helmets offer an unparalleled level of shock deflection; during impact force is distributed equally across the surface rather than staying centralized to the impact area.

Durability

Carbon fiber motorcycle helmets provide a higher level of durability than other helmets. Cosmetically, they provide a higher scratch and crack- resistance than fiberglass helmets. Carbon fiber motorcycle helmets are also lighter than other helmets and surprising light given their strength, making them easier to wear.

Weather

Carbon fiber motorcycle helmets are perfect for all kinds of weather and are often made with breathable vents to accommodate warm weather riders. They are lightweight and offer riders ease of mobility and reduced weight/stress on the neck.

Another advantage of carbon fiber motorcycle helmets is that they adjust well to cold weather climates. A major concern for cold weather riders is the “fog factor” which affects your ability to see road conditions. Most carbon fiber helmets are built with anti-fog systems that combat reduced visor visibility.

Carbon fiber motorcycle helmets also offer an added level of noise protection, which is a huge advantage for reducing the amount of wind noise you experience. Reduced wind noise allows you to focus on traffic sounds, and also reduces your risk for hearing loss.

Overall, a carbon fiber helmet offers riders increased safety, durability and a more comfortable riding experience. It’s no surprise that decades of research and development for fiber technology has lead to industry domination by carbon fiber.

Carbon fiber motorcycle helmets range in price from around $200 to $1,000 (USD) and come in a variety of shapes and helmet types. If you haven’t ever tried one of these helmets, I recommend heading to your local dealer, getting fitted and at least talking to a specialist about the benefits of a carbon fiber motorcycle helmet.

Wednesday, June 5, 2013

Elmo Motorcycle Helmet Cover

Elmo Motorcycle Helmet Cover
We would like to thank Brent Morley for sending us the picture of his Elmo Motorcycle Helmet Cover in Action.  

Crash Light on Motorcycle Helmet?

Flashing LED strips for motorcycle helmets TRIGGERED BY IMPACT SENSING G SWITCHES. Makes riders visible to other vehicles if they go down.

Motorcycle accidents are bad, but can become much worse when a rider goes down, then gets hit by a car because they can't be seen. Imagine a rider falling or crashing at night; whether or not they are seriously injured by the fall, they are in incredible danger of being hit without something to draw attention to them. My idea is to simply have LED strips that can be attached to the helmet, that are triggered by an impact sensing "G" switch, or switches. This type of switch will either open or close a circuit once a specified amount of force is put on it. They are used in emergency locator transmitters in airplanes. So when the rider falls, the impact, whether hard or soft, (reason for two different range G switches) the LED strips with be turned on, making them more visible. The switches themselves are quite small, and the LED strip could be very basic, so as not to interfere with the look or style of the helmet. Unlike the pictures I used for the basic idea, these could be very stylish and unobtrusive to the look. I'm a young rider so I understand the importance of having to look cool. The strips could be mounted on the front, back, sides, or all three. Completely up to the user. It would have best to have two different G switches, of different force ranges, be part of the system to allow the lights to be triggered by both lighter falls, and heavy crashes. - Two impact sensing switches with different "G" different ranges, to allow for different levels of crashes

Tuesday, June 4, 2013

Motorcycle Helmets Do Not Impair Vision or Hearing (unless it's our novelty skull helmet)

Motorcycle riders who do not support universal helmet laws often argue that full-face helmets hinder their ability to see traffic obstacles and hear on-coming traffic therefore contributing to accidents. However, a study conducted by The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) argues that motorcyclists that wear helmets are twenty-nine percent less likely to suffer fatal injuries.

In an effort to debunk the accusations that helmets hinder your ability to see and hear, the NHTSA sponsored a study that assessed a motorcyclist’s ability to hear and see different traffic conditions. The study involved a group of 50 motorcyclists with varying ages and riding experiences who were asked to perform certain maneuvers while driving in a two part study:

1. Vision Test: Driver’s were asked to change lanes whenever they heard a signal from a following vehicle. After hearing the signal, drivers were instructed to follow safe driving procedures by checking over their shoulder before changing lanes. Each driver was asked to repeat the vision test three times, once in a full-face helmet, then in a partial coverage helmet and finally with no helmet. NHTSA measured the degree of head rotation made by the drivers during these various exercises.

2. Hearing Test: During the same exam, the sound of the signal was adjusted to varying levels while signaling the drivers to change lanes. The minimum sound level that each driver could hear was recorded.

Although 50 drivers participated in the same test, half were studied for hearing while the other half was studied for vision.

Based on results published by NHTSA, 16 percent of drivers were able to compensate for lost of lateral vision by turning their heads farther – only four riders did not compensate. The drivers were not noted to require any additional time to turn their heads farther and check for traffic.

The hearing test did not show any differences between the driver’s ability to recognize auditory signals with or without a helmet. However, their ability to hear the signal clearly was affected by their speed of travel. The study showed that all riders needed a louder signal at a higher speed as a result of increased wind noise.

The release of this data has been a great benefit to those in support of helmet laws, and ultimately forced naysayers to switch their argument to a “freedom of choice” type logic; instead arguing that wearing a helmet should be at the discretion of every rider.

I’m not sure I buy it. Not just because I’m obviously a self-proclaimed advocate for motorcycle safety and the wearing of protective gear but for the simple fact that I’m a logical human being. There isn't much of a difference between a seat belt and a helmet. They both keep you from suffering a head injury by slamming into the ground or your own windshield.

Politics and obvious public health costs aside, I don’t understand why someone wouldn't want to protect their skull. Regardless of your skill or experience level as a rider, you cant guarantee that other drivers on the road are paying attention. If you love to ride your motorcycle, you should want to ride it for as long as you can which would be pretty difficult with your brains on the pavement.