TT Surgeon

Open face Bell, NASCAR style!

Maas

Watt, really???

Why is that? You'd think that they would offer much more protection then any other helmet, is there a reason for them not being allowed?

msrc2

How much is your head worth?? Saving a few bucks on a helmet isn't a smart choice....Arai makes some of the finest helmets in the world.
Several Arai models ARE approved for auto use. The "GP Line", both full-faced and open. Snell-00, with 05 coming soon.
Arai helmets are currebtly used in F1, Indy, and used by Gordon, Burton, Martin, and Biffle in Nascar.
Check with your sactioning body to be sure.

Don't skimp....

ltc

SA = nomex lining = fireproof = better chances for survival, since with a proper seat/harness/rollcage/padding, you should not be thrown from the vehicle at 180km/hr. Fire is more of a concern than being airborn and landing on your head.

BTW, (IIRC biomechanics course), most helmets are ineffective above 40mph direct impact. I'm glad you survived 180km/hr.

Maas

Msrc2 you're right they do make automotive helmets, I was not aware of that.

Ltc thanks for the info, makes sense, i'm sure arai's automotive helmets meet the requirements, if msrc2 is right it seems they're used by some of the best.

I've placed my faith and my head soundly in Arai's helmets and i'll continue to do so. Im' just starting out in the car scene, but im' sure when it's time for me to get a track helmet it will be an arai.

Maas

"Arai is the only helmet with world-caliber competitors at the highest levels of international motorsports. In fact, Arai dominates the racing grids in Formula One and Indy Car auto racing, as well as being chosen by such NASCAR® heroes as Jeff Gordon, Jeff Burton, Mark Martin, and Daytona 400 winner Greg Biffle. And 4 of 5 current American MotoGP motorcycle racers wear Arai? Quite an accomplishment for such a small company. But not so surprising when you consider the Arai Philosophy and standards that go into the building of its helmets."


Makes sense to me to have it on my head.

ltc

http://fransurf.com/lareunion/stand2...nologie-2.html

I had no idea they did custom fits.....thanks!

offroadr35

i have the Arai GP5k and like it a lot.

skl

I'm also a SCCA licensed driver and they have recently sent out a memo stating that if you run a air-bag equipped car on the track with a full face helmet you should disable the airbag when racing or tracking the car. I have a Bell kevlar helmet I also use with my Spec Miata in SCCA racing and would recommend the lightest helmet you can afford- and a HANS device! BTW, my helmet was painted by Bullseye as well- they do a GREAT job.

FixedWing

What is the reasoning for this?

Stephen

skl

I assume it has something to do with impact of the airbag on your chin which could hyperextend your cervical spine- not a good thing... Without the helmet over your chin with an open face helmet there is more space for the bag to inflate.

vegasgolf98

Yes, my Stand 21 helmet was custom fit. I can race all day it it and don't really realize that it is on.
It is that perfect. I have also heard many good things about the Arai helmet. But, these are not cheap either. I am sure either way you go, you will be fine.

FixedWing

Make sense. I suppose with the bag-only the bag will form around the face whereas the bag will put more force on the larger helmet which will in turn push the entire head back.

Stephen

Jack

Stand 21 for me also -- needed the light weight.

kristap

On the subject of helmets, what about anti-fogging for the visor? FogCity?