Same helmet for track and motorcycle? - 986 Forum - The Community for Porsche Boxster & Cayman Owners

larryshomework · 02-06-2008, 06:37 AM

I'm considering buying a motorcycle and also starting to do some DE and auto-x.

Anyone know if an autoracing helmet such as the Bell M4 would be appropriate as a regular use motorcycle helmet? I'm looking auto helmet for the SA rating.

http://www.soloracer.com/bellm4.html

Thanks for the feedback.

Topless · 02-06-2008, 06:55 AM

Maybe,
Check with your local DE organization (PCA, POC, SCCA) to see what they require. Most track events now require Snell SA rating.

The differences:

Snell SA rated helmets are fire resistant and designed to protect you in a multi- impact collision. They are usually a little heavier and have less visibility than M rated motorcycle helmets. (recent Snell SA2005 rated helmets from Zaamp and Pyrotect are good quality for a lot less $$)

Snell M rated helmets are designed to protect you in a single impact collision, are not fire resistant, are lighter weight and have the best visibility.

Good hunting.

larryshomework · 02-06-2008, 07:00 AM

SA it is here (Barber Motorsports Park).

Lil bastard · 02-06-2008, 07:23 AM

You might want to consider how much of each planned use you'll be doing. I have the Bell M4 for several years, and it's a really great helmet for Auto-X, Track, and DEs.

But, imo, it's way too heavy for regular use on a bike. I have a Shoei helmet for riding my bike, but have tried using the M4. The M4 is not only too heavy (for all but the shortest rides), but not as well ventilated, and has a tunnel-vision effect compared to the Shoei. It severely cuts down your traffic awareness causing you to turn your head much more, increasing neck fatigue.

If you plan to DE, Track or Auto-X more than ride the bike, you may be OK. If the opposite is true, you may want to revisit your decision, or plan on buying a dedicated helmet for each.

larryshomework · 02-06-2008, 08:55 AM

Thanks - that's exactly what I wanted to know. Looks like I'll start with an auto helmet then get a dedicated bike helmet if I go the motorcycle route.

I was looking at the m4 since the Mag series (open face) doesn't seem compatible with a shield (for motorcycle riding). Given that is no longer an issue what are your thoughts on open vs close faced for auto-x/DE?

Lil bastard · 02-06-2008, 09:39 AM

Personally, I prefer an open face helmet for Auto-X and DE. The windshield will keep most everything away from your face and I recommend a good pair of polycarb sunglasses, much cooler and generally better visibility. A closed face can get a little warm waiting for your runs - great when there is some airflow, but nasty when it's still.

I have the closed face because of other racing that I do. I had a Bell Mag 5 which I used for Auto-X and DEs, but I stupidly set it down in the paddock area and some unscrupulous jerk decided to give it a good home, forcing me to finish the season with the M4. I'll most likely get another open face this spring.