Motorcycle riding has undergone certain fundamental changes across the years. The early motorcycles, beginning with the first made as early as 1885, naturally lacked much power or features compared to their modern counterparts, and hence, there was little need then for bikers to wear helmets for protection. Accidents due to motorcycles were then unheard of. However, the scenario has changed drastically and helmets are a must now for bikers.
One factor that radically changed motorcycles was the increasing speed of the newly made models. The rise in speed was accompanied by a number of serious accidents and biker fatality rate. Now it was necessary to combat this with the help of protective gear. The first commercial motorcycle helmet in the year 1953, by a professor from the University of South California. With the discovery of suitable head protection such as helmets, companies such as Harley Davidson and Indian ones were free to provide riders with that extra kick-the adventure and delight comes with speed.
Head Protection
The main use of the helmet comes for head protection. The biker's head has to be protected while riding, and this is all the more important because accidents during riding can lead to severe medical disorders such as brain injury or damage.
It has been observed that a considerable number of bikers tend to overlook safety issues at times as they avoid wearing helmets due to physical or mental reasons. However, it is particularly not advisable to abandon helmet-wearing as it could lead to fatal injuries.
A number of nations have made helmet-wearing while motorcycle riding mandatory, including punishment and fine in case of violation. This has been an admirable step indeed in the promotion of helmet-wearing among bikers. It should be noted that both drivers and passengers come under the purview of this law.
About Helmets
There are a number of characteristics to look out in a motorcycle helmet.
1. Material: Helmet material should always light in weight and tough. It should be tough enough to absorb the shock on the rider's head, in case he falls down. Newer materials such as crack-resistant fibers and good plastic have made the manufacturing process more easy and wholesome.
2. Cost: The price of a helmet should not be worried about much since safety must always come before money.
3. Comfort: Many helmets in the market are more comfortable compared to others. However, safety must not be sacrificed against comfort. It is best advised to go for a full-laced helmet which provides the maximum safety. However, at times, a half-laced helmet comes handy because of its wider view of the road.
4. Additional features: While safety always comes first, certain things like a well-built visor that provides good shield against wind and dust, soft interiors that are softer and less itchy, and also provide for good sweat-absorption are also to be kept in mind. The decorative part, i.e. colors and graphics are entirely dependant on rider's preference.
It can be concluded saying that now there are many different companies that can even offer you extra features such as enhanced ventilation and anti-fog visors. These have to be chosen carefully, so that they provide for safety and the thrill of biking simultaneously.
And hint: don't forget your motorcycle jacket! Jackets help keep your body safe.
