Triumphrat

HooliganRandy · 03-28-2006

I bought my S4 late last season. This will be my first season of riding. In an effort to save a little money, I thought I would use my snowmobiling helmet, as it looks like any other full-face street helmet. It is a high quality HJC, with very good safety ratings. However, the windshield states "for snowmobile use only". Is this referring to the windshield only? The whold helmet? Or what??? Any input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance ....

hinkleyboy · 03-28-2006

if it is a dark visor it is not legal for road use however i use a dark visor on the road its like wearing sunglasses and use a clear one at night, as its a snowmobile visor i would have thought it was very dark so as to cut down on reflective light from the snow it should be fine on a sunny day but if you use it at night you won't see a thing!

HooliganRandy · 03-28-2006

Thanks for the quick response Hinkleyboy! Actually, the shield is clear. The mystery continues ...

Will · 03-28-2006

It may not be DOT rated. That doesn't necessarily mean it is any different from a motorcycle helmet, but you can't be sure. I really don't know how you would tell.

You can get an inexpensive helmet that tests well and is DOT and Snell rated, and then you will know it is as it should be.

hinkleyboy · 03-28-2006

for instance the american simpson bandit helmets are legal in the states ( i think ) but are not legal here in the uk!

RandyDTFR · 03-28-2006

I know what you mean about spending a lot of money.

Check this out- for under $100 you can get a very good helmet from Z1R helmet Motorcyclist magazine did a great article about DOD & SNELL helmets. The Z1R did better then the big dollar helmets- and you can find them for under $100

Check it out here: Blowing the lid off

Leave your HJC for the snow and get a proper helmet. Thats my two cents.

Ride safe!
~Randy DTFR

HooliganRandy · 03-29-2006

Thanks for all your input guys ... much appreciated. Hey RandyDTFR, great link to the helmet review. I think a Z1R is in my future! Next up .... gloves, boots, jacket ...