Choosing a motorbike helmet – a buyer’s guide.

With full face helmets and hybrid helmets; as well as numerous manufacturers such as Arai, Shoei and Caberg; you might be spoilt for choice when it comes to deciding which motorbike helmet is right for you.

It’s fair to say that choosing the right motorbike helmet is one of the most important decisions a rider can ever make because it could prove the difference between life and death should a serious accident occur. That’s why you should not compromise on quality and ensure that your helmet meets the minimum European market standard ECE 22.05 – remember that this marker is a minimum and many manufacturers far surpass this standard.

There are several types of motorbike helmet available. These include full face helmets, which offer extra protection for your chin although they can feel restrictive and hot; hybrid helmets, which allow you to open the chin and slide the helmet upwards which can be particularly useful if you wear glasses; and open face helmets which are designed to protect your ears and the side of your face.

When selecting a motorbike helmet, fit is vital and you should get the dealer to measure your head – many motorcyclists wear a helmet that is one size too big because at the point of sale they think it feels right. There should be no excessive movement on the head - left or right, up or down.

Saltire Suzuki will help riders across Edinburgh, Lothian, Livingston, Fife and beyond find a helmet that doesn’t just look and feel good, but also offers vital protection when you need it the most.