To be DOT or not to be DOT - a question

Okay, so I wanted to pick up one of these - thinking it hits all the right triggers when i'm floating down the highway on my way work amongst subarus and minivans...



Thoughts on the whole DOT thing? (it's not DOT approved)

I mean let's face it, with so many on here that argue the helmet in the first place, am I not thinking "ahead" by wearing something more than a beanie (or Sons of Anarchy-licensed baseball hat)?

Plus, I currently have a DOT/Snell and read so many posts about Snell being complete BS. Plus its kinda heavy and thick to wear.

The website for those of you who want to browse some other great hats...
http://www.ironhorsehelmets.com/novelty-helmets/

Thanks.

 

The issue with DOT vs SNELL is that the helmets are tested using different methods and have different criteria for passing. The discussion there focuses on which test methodology/criteria most simulates a likely "real world" incident.

That thing isn't a helmet any more than a beanie is. It's just a hard hat. You can't know how it will perform in an accident unless it's tested. Sure, it's stiffer than a baseball cap, but what happens to one of those horns in an impact? What is the likelihood of this helmet contributing to injury as it fractures?

These questions are largely answered by some form of standardized testing, and since the test is destructive, YOU can't test the helmet. "Real" motorcycle helmets are designed to absorb impact when you tip-over, basically absorbing all of the converted potential energy of your head and body while sitting on the bike.

 

It sure ain't SNELL approved either.

And manbot is correct, it's not even a "real" helmet.

I highly doubt it's any more effective than no helmet at all. Possibly more dangerous, for the reasons given above.

 

Here in California, if it isn't DOT approved, you get a huge ticket. That is just a novelty helmet which will provide no protection.

 

On thing to consider: 35% of the time the first part of a rider's body to be hit in an accident is the jaw.

Another thing to consider: Even in no-helmet states it is illegal to wear a non-DOT helmet.

 

Yeah,wear that.Then cry about police picking on you.

 

Dan, you are too cool. The website says those are "troll horns". Based on that and the fact that it's "Non-DOT", maybe I should get one also...

 

I agree - looks pretty badass but might do you more harm than good when it really counts. I noticed on the site they sell just the horns (in a few different styles) so you could mount them to an approved helmet. Only problem is it says "screw on installation", which I'm assuming means you have to drill some holes and compromise the integrity of the helmet anyway. It would be better if you could just stick them on with something sturdy enough to handle a good breeze & weak enough to break off if you hit the pavement.

 

maybe get one of these to go with it

 

Polock, I like your shirt, and if I may say, you have a handsome physique. :lol:

 

You could also get these...

http://motovitrina.ru/good2668.html

 

Although I like the breakaway horn idea from tedx3, since no one is keen on the horns, my second choice is this:


Get a matching set for the wife and me. Or the bunny ears for her (thanks JP)

This would also be a better replacement for the alternative: RickB and I both with horn helmets - starting a new trend that ends up as a "club for horny bikers" - which my wife would not approve of.

Polock, you googled my wardrobe page on flickr!

 

I say get them if you look like this!

 

If I looked like that, my wife would be confused, but I would make those horns sing!

 

Okay, so I realize that maybe look MIGHT be less important than the result of bad luck at high speeds. So I can settle for one of these:


Bigfitz and manbot can sleep at night again

And then a special apparatus for my jaw of some sort, so k-moe won't worry.

Retread, the cops will pick regardless.

Thanks for the support Rick.

 

An outstanding description snippet :

second, is John Travolta gay because he likes massages from men?


Ha, funny stuff, that.

 

thanks Rick, i been worken it with my old Richard Simmonds tapes

 

I am proud of Dan, even though we do not have Helmet laws here in Colorado, he still chooses to look at options. I like the disco ball.

 

thanks trailsnail.

Now we're talkin about the real issue!

 

You need to wear a white 3 piece polyester suit,bell bottom pants of course.Oh yeah,platform shoes.AND DON'T TOUCH THE HAIR!