Choosing Chopper Helmets that Compliment Your Custom Chopper

Shopping for "chopper helmets" shouldn't include getting a D.O.T. approved helmet. It's a helmet that you'll be happy to wear when riding your custom chopper.

There are lots of really cool helmets available, so there is no need to have that 1960's "Captain America look". However, there are few things you need to look for when purchasing a helmet:

• D.O.T. approved chopper helmets ensure your safety. If it does not have the D.O.T. seal, you aren't purchasing real protection.
• Proper fit ensures the helmet will protect your head instead of sliding off your skull.
• Padding provides comfort and avoids chafing.A sturdy yet comfortable chin strap that is fully adjustable makes sure the custom chopper helmet is snug on your head.
• If you do not like to wear goggles or safety glasses, you should consider a face shield to prevent bugs from hitting your eyes and causing accidents.

A very popular custom chopper helmet style is the half-cap or cranium cap. This is a hard-shell half-helmet that protects the skull and brain. These chopper helmets do not extend down to the neckline and therefore prevent injuries caused from the helmet driving into the neck when hitting pavement in a wreck. Traditionally, these helmets were all black, but today they are available in airbrushed and many colors.

A new light weight material used in helmets that custom chopper riders love is carbon fiber. These lids are not nearly as heavy as old-fashioned helmets but they provide adequate protection necessary to earn the D.O.T. seal of approval. These helmets are usually seen in solid colors but some graphics are beginning to appear. These are also available in a marble-like finish that looks really nice.

D.O.T. approved leather helmets are another popular choice for the custom scoot crowd. These helmets provide protection but have an outside surface of leather. They look cool and still get the job of protecting your body's computer very well.

If your custom chopper is designed along a theme or has beautiful airbrush graphics, you can find ready-made helmets that fit into the design scheme. Eagles, skulls, spiders, roses, crosses, flames and may other graphic designs are available. You can also purchase ready-to-airbrush helmets and have them finished with your custom sled for the perfect match.

Recently chrome helmets have come on the market. These are certainly bright and shiny but they have one serious and rather aggravating problem: lights reflected off the helmet, whether from sunlight or headlights can be absolutely blinding to riders or drivers around you. No one wants to be blinded by a motorcycle helmet so be polite and don't blind those around you. Accidents can be the result of having a bright light shined in the eyes of drivers and riders.

If you plan to allow passengers on your chopper, you might want to consider buying a matching pair of chopper helmets. If you have a child that may ride with you from time to time, even if you are in a Helmet Optional state, you will want to have a child's smaller chopper helmet available. Most Helmet Optional states require anyone under the age of 18 to wear head protection at all times when riding.

Remember,a custom chopper helmets are not simply something to use as a kickstand pad when parking in loose soil. It has to be on your head to protect your brain should an accident occur. Also, states that require helmets are not amused at those who ignore that law, no matter whether you agree with the law or not.

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