3/4 Helmets Vs. Full Face Helmets
Wearing a motorcycle helmet when riding a street bike is a matter of choice in many states, but riders often choose to take advantage of the extra protection they afford. The two helmet styles offering the best protection are 3/4 helmets and full-face helmets.
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Types
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The 3/4 helmet offers no chin protection. A 3/4 motorcycle helmet resembles a football helmet minus the face guard, and offers protection for all areas of the head except the chin area. Some 3/4 helmets are equipped with removable or permanent visors. A full-face helmet is large and bulky compared to a 3/4 helmet, but it features a solid face guard and either a full or partial visor.
Features
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Both the driver and passenger are wearing full-face helmets. Full face helmets include removable, washable liners and vent systems to prevent heat buildup and keep the visor from fogging. The 3/4 helmet is constructed to the same strict Department of Transportation guidelines, but it also offers the wind-in-your-face freedom most bikers crave when not incorporating the visor option.
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Benefits and Warnings
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Use of both helmet types contributed to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimate that helmets saved more than 1,800 riders and passengers during 2008 and 2009. It is recommended that any helmet choice be certified by the Department of Transportation. While novelty helmets may look cool, they contain little or no impact-absorbing lining material. Certified helmets feature a DOT or SNELL approved symbol on the back of the helmet.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit motocross - am start image by Bea Busse from Fotolia.com man enjoying a motorcycle city ride isolated image by alma_sacra from Fotolia.com motorradfahrer image by fuxart from Fotolia.com
