BERLIN: Motorcyclists live dangerously, with only a helmet and a handful of other gear protecting them from the elements and the traffic.
Helmets have been compulsory for motorcyclists and their passengers travelling at speeds of more than 20kph since the seventies in many places.
The range of models, brands, colours and systems has expanded rapidly in recent years.
"Especially in terms of safety, aerodynamics, aeroacoustics and quality, modern helmets can no longer be compared with very old ones," says Jörg Lohse, who works for a trade magazine.
The basic principle is still the same, with helmets made up of cushioning foam on the inside and a hard shell on the outside. But the materials have changed considerably.
"Modern helmets absorb shocks better, from high and low speeds. They are also quieter and more comfortable to wear," Lohse says.
Different manufacturers also now offer many more fits so motorcyclists can usually consider a broad selection to find a suitable model.
"The fit is crucial. A good helmet must fit properly and comfortably, like a trainer," says Lohse. He suggests prospective buyers should try on a helmet and head out for a test ride. Many dealers offer test helmets to allow people to do so.
There are standards but helmets do come in different sizes, says Lohse, because the interior padding comes shaped differently.
Also, you can only really check the aeroacoustics when riding. As every bike creates different wind turbulence on the helmet, potential buyers should try out helmets and consider how the vibrations and noise feel. "The helmet must not flap or vibrate and the visor must close well," the expert says.
Other key things to watch for are a fog-free double visor and sun visors so you can see well even in tougher light.
Key safety features involve the rider having clear visibility, good ventilation for a comfortable fit and that the helmet should not be too heavy so you can wear it comfortably without getting tired or achey.
Well-known brands include Arai, Shoei, Bell, Nolan, Levior, HJC, X-Lite, Shark and Schuberth. Ducati and Harley-Davidson make helmets, with Harley-Davidson offering the protective headgear since 1958.
BMW Motorrad initially started cooperating with helmet manufacturer Römer in 1975.
The eye-catching helmet in orange then became part pf the BMW range. "Along the way, BMW developed new rider training courses and, from 1978, protective clothing and accessories. In addition, a new type of helmet was introduced in 1981: the flip-up helmet," says BMW archive manager Fred Jakobs.
The basic idea of the System Helmet I, now developed in-house, was to combine the comfort of an open-face jet helmet with the safety of a full-face helmet. That means the helmet's chin section can be moved upwards.
People who wear glasses particularly liked the helmet, as do smokers. Compared to full-face helmets, glasses-wearers don't have to squeeze the frames between the ears and the helmet.
Also, there is a special lock to fix the chin section of the flip-up helmet at the top to enable you to ride with the helmet open, or remove the chin section in two easy steps.
The downside is that these helmets were heavier and larger than full-face helmets.
BMW patented the system and was the exclusive manufacturer for 20 years. The seventh generation of the flip-up helmet is still part of the Bavarian helmet range, and a new one is to follow next year.
Of this variety, from jet, flip-up or full-face helmets, Lohse says flip-up or full-face helmets are the safest options.
The advantage of the flip-up helmet is that depending on the situation, your field of vision is extended and it is easier to put the helmet on and take it off.
On the other hand, when closed, it can provide the face protection of a full-face helmet.
Meanwhile the simplest and safest fastening on the chin is the double D-ring, because the helmet is fixed just right every time you put it on, he says.
Riders pull a strap through two eyelets so it's taut.
Lohse says frequent riders should buy a new helmet after three to five years, or after five to seven years if you bike less often.
Replace the helmet after any fall - even if the helmet only hits the ground from the seat, he says.
