EARLY OFF-ROAD HELMETS
Early dirt-bike helmets were pretty much the same as the modern OPEN FACE HELMETS
However, just as full face helmets, and their prominent chin bar, became routine in the racing world because they offered better head protection, full face helmets became the norm in off-road riding, since they offer more and better protection for the motocross rider’s head.
MOTOCROSS HELMET DISTINCTIONS
MOTOCROSS HELMETS
Motocross helmets have a longer chin section than a standard, full face helmet meant for the street. As well, the chin section tends to be angular rather than rounded and includes a face mask to minimize dirt and debris from getting into the nose and mouth.
Motocross helmets also have a long visor to keep sun out of the rider’s eyes. Full face helmets for street riders don’t have these long visors, since the visor reduces the aerodynamic properties which become more important at the higher speed on the street. Higher speeds also equals higher wind velocities, which could put undue stress on a rider’s neck.
Of course another difference between motocross helmets and regular full face helmets are that motocross helmets are typically worn with goggles, full face helmets for the street are usually worn with a face shield.
IS THAT MOTOCROSS HELMET CHIN BAR WORTH IT?
I can personally attest to the advantage of that chin bar on a full face helmet. In one of the motorcycle crashes I experienced, not only did the helmet absorb a significant jolt to the crown of my head, but as evidenced by the deep scar across the chin section of that same helmet, it saved my face from being impacted and ground up the road surface.
As with selecting any motorcycle helmet, be sure to get one that fits correctly. Here is some info on How To Fit A Motorcycle Helmet.
