Whats the difference b/w a motorcycle helmet and helmets used in cars. I want to get a all in one that i can use on the track as well as on bikes. Will I get too hot if I wear a full face cycle helmet in a car? tks
There are many other threads about helmets here : buy the best you can which will probably carry Snell SA approval but note the field of vision comment below - in a car you would usually remove the visor on a fullface What are the differences between the Snell SA, M and K standards? The SA standard was designed for competitive auto racing while M standard was for motorcycling and other motorsports. The K standard was released to accommodate helmets used in karting. There are three major differences between them: 1. The SA standard requires flammability test while the M and K standards do not. 2. The SA and K standards allow for a narrower visual field than M standard (Some SA and K certified helmets may not be street legal). 3. The SA and K standards include a rollbar multi impact test while M standard does not.
Per page 42 of the NASA CCR: "Use a proper fitting helmet that meets Snell 1990 (SA1990; M1990) or newer (or equivalent) standards for cars or motorcycles." As far as I know, the Snell 1990 or higher is required by virtually every group (at least the ones that I have driven with... some may require a higher minimum spec). But, I guess as long as the helmet you get meets or exceeds that spec, you will be ok. I use a full-face helmet, with the visor down in some cases in the car.
A lot of sanctioning bodies and trackday promoters will not allow you to use a motorcycle helmet in a car as they fo not have a flame proof inner liner. Also motorcycle helmets do not have attachment points for a HANS device whereas newer car helmet designs include them.
Also, most track day events (HPDEs, schools, test-n-tunes, etc.) require a Snell SA2000 minimum... for now. That will change to SA2005 next year as helmets have a 10 year certification life. Something to consider: The field of view and fire retardant fabric are not the only safety differences between the M and SA standards. As has been said, the SA helmets are certified for multiple impacts (such as those against a roll cage) of lesser force than the single impacts that a motorcycle helmet is tested and certified for. I say this to get you thinking - while a SA helmet may work on a bike, it may not be ample protection for the level of impact that a bike accident may subject it to. An example is: technically, an SA helmet dropped from more than 24-28 inches ('waist height') is done and must be replaced. M helmets are meant to take a bigger blow - but just one. Food for thought. This IS your noggin we're talkin' about here. In any case, if you do want to go multi-purpose, it'll have to be an SA to get you into many car-based track programs. Cheers & C U @ d'Track!! C Chuck Hawks, Pro-Driver, Coach, Instructor & Facilitator DreamsFulfilled, LLC & rEvolution Performance Driving System ©
That sort of says it all. I'm shocked at the number of drivers with nice cars, or not so nice track rats for that matter, who'll skimp on a helmet at track days. Our liability carrier told us, hey if people are on track in cars, they need a car (ie: SA) rated helmet. Feff
+1 Could not have said it any better. In all my years of racing motocross and jet ski's I never skimped when it came to protective equipment. In fact to this day when I recreational ride my bike or jet ski I can be seen wearing the top of the line helmet. And it you are wondering yes I wear one while jet skiing
IIRC, in addition to the fire-resistant lining and multi-impact capability, SA helmets have thicker visors.
All you're doing is perpetuating confusion as to what constitutes an appropriate helmet for automotive applications. That section of the NASA CCR refers to HPDE only, not racing. I would NEVER recommend that anyone wear a motorcycle-rated helmet in an automobile. Mostly because you look like a cheap-a$$ dork, but in reality it's simply the wrong helmet for the application.
FCA track events require SA2000 or 2005 helmets. Motorcycle helmets are NOT ALLOWED. SA2000 helmets will be allowed into 2011.
thank you! As a novice I would have thot that bike helmets are "safer" but that doesnt appear to be the case, especially w/ the fire resistant lining in Car helmets. I guess I'll get an "entry level" simpson helmet for the car. Where can I buy one anyway??? BTW who makes all the helmet rules, the manufacturers?!!!
No, you will not get too hot. To add to what others have said, because of the fire rating, an SA helmet has a fixed amount of non-removable padding. Lots of moto helmets have padding pieces you can add or subtract to get a better fit. only if you are running with a group that allows you to roll the windows up. even a simple off by yourself can kick dirt and grit into your eyes if you have the visor up/off and the windows down. No helmets have a flame proof liner. Only flame resistant. That's meaningless though; adding the HANS bolts is easily done. I personally haven't seen any SA helmets with HANS bolts already installed but I believe you.
Do yourself a favour and don't buy a cheap helmet. Make sure it fits well and spend a few dollars protecting your head. www.smf.org www.sfifoundation.com www.fia.com I have, but we are talking about the very high end. Most average and above quality helmets are at least drilled for HANS anchors. You are right, you could add HANS anchors to just about any helmet shell. I installed a set for my crew chief's racing helmet this weekend.
