More and more women are jumping on motorcycles and hitting the road each day, and the female motorcycle gear market is continually expanding as a result. There is a vast range of unique motorcycle helmets for women, so many female riders use the protective hats to make bold fashion statements. With the assortment of styles and colors to choose from, women bikers can wear trendy helmets without sacrificing safety or function.

Making a Fashion Statement

If you want to make an unforgettable statement with your motorcycle helmet, there are certain factors to consider. Standing out in the crowd and being admired for your fashion sense takes more than just grabbing the first hot pink sparkle helmet you see. Popular styles of motorcycle gear change each season just as they do with other types of accessories or clothing.

Current trends for female motorcycle helmets include eye-catching, vibrant colors that pop against dark surfaces. You may see neon graphics such as butterflies, roses, hearts or delicate lacy patterns, but many cutting edge helmet designers are going for more distinctive looks. Snarky catch phrases, animal prints and even female zombies are appearing on women’s helmets more and more.

Some helmet manufacturers are taking things one step further by focusing on the playful side of riding. You can now purchase a helmet with your favorite animal airbrushed on it, or you can choose one that has a hole for freeing your ponytail. There are even helmets that have brightly colored pigtails, braids and ponytails attached to the outer shell. If you’re less adventurous, you can still show your fun side by opting for a pink chin strap buckle or tinted shield.

Choosing the Right Style

The best motorcycle helmet to show the world you are fashion savvy is one that fits properly and represents your distinct personality. If you want a full-face helmet, you may want to don the Arai Vector 2 Blossom, or you may prefer the more hardcore vibe of the HJC CL-16 line. The Icon Alliance Chrysalis helmet gives you the best of both worlds with feminine colors and bold graphics.

If you’re looking for a helmet that permits more air to circulate around your face while you’re on your riding adventures, you may want to consider a beanie or three-quarter shell. Beanie helmets are classics worn by all types of riders, but they offer less protection than other styles. The three-quarter shells provide more coverage, but they still lack chin protection.

Bell, Speed and Strength, and Shoei make some of the best open-face helmets on the market. The Speed and Strength SS300 Wicked Garden is ideal for the woman who wants to show her devilish side. Bell’s Pit Boss flamed helmet is perfect for the fiery female rider. If you prefer a more understated way to show off your style, the Shoei RJ Platinum-R helmet in deep wine red is inconspicuously chic.

Considering Safety

Although women’s motorcycle helmets are becoming more trendy and fashionable, functionality and safety is equally as important. Keeping safety in mind means selecting a helmet that passes the requirements of the Department of Transportation and Snell Memorial Foundation. The protective features of a helmet should be the most important aspect of the statement you want to make as a female biker.

Motorcycle helmets for men are designed differently than those made for women. The sizing is unique for female helmets, and fit is a vital facet to consider. A helmet that is too loose or tight will not only be uncomfortable, it will be ineffective in protecting your skull from damage. You should also factor in ventilation, inner padding and facial protection. Choose a helmet that is manufactured with quality materials that can withstand various types of impact.

The best way to make a fashion statement with your helmet is to choose one you know you will wear. Your confidence in your selection will show every time you jump on your bike. There are numerous options to choose from, and many contemporary helmets are beautiful, feminine, sturdy and functional. Look for the ultimate combination of style, fit and safety, and you will be remembered in the biker and fashion world.

The post How Motorcycle Helmets for Women are the New Fashion Statement appeared first on Michael Padway & Associates.

Motorcycle helmets have become lighter and more compact in recent years. They offer a great number of benefits for riders. Protective headgear enhances safety, improves comfort and reduces certain expenses. If you don’t already wear a lightweight motorcycle helmet, please consider doing so. Here are the top ten ways that wearing a lightweight motorcycle helmet will improve your ride – you may be surprised at some of the most beneficial reasons to wear your helmet.

1. Staying Alive: Most importantly, a helmet can truly save your life in a motorcycle accident. Various studies indicate that helmets decrease the likelihood of death by about 40 percent, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. A lightweight motorcycle helmet will offer you the same protection but with less weight on your head/neck, allowing you to move easier to watch for traffic conditions.

2. Skip the Brain Surgery: Lightweight helmets can prevent head wounds, skull fractures and provide the same protection as standard helmets. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that riders with helmets experience far fewer serious brain injuries than other motorcyclists.

3. Don’t Get Pulled Over: Some states (like California, Oregon, New York and Georgia) have laws that require adult motorcycle riders to wear helmets. Most states expect minors to wear them, according to Consumer Reports. Wearing your helmet not only protects your brain but your wallet.

4. Keep Your Head Dry: If you wear a lightweight motorcycle helmet, your hair won’t get drenched when it rains. It will also shield you from hail stones, strong winds and other harsh weather. A lightweight motorcycle helmet will also offer additional ventilation for hot weather, you can enjoy that hot summer day without swimming inside your helmet.

5. Use Less Sunscreen: If you’re riding in the sun, your helmet offers a better protective barrier between you and the sun. If you’ve got a visor and/or face shield, you’ll be well protected against the harmful UVs that cause skin cancer.

6. Don’t Get Stung: Helmets prevent bugs and other outside elements from smacking you in the face while you’re riding. Have you ever been stopped at a red light and had a bee decide to circle you? Rest assured that a full coverage helmet will keep it out of your face. Occasionally, stings can cause allergic reactions and just general panic which can cause an accident.

7. Dust in the Wind: Helmets provide protection from pebbles, sand and other small objects that vehicles throw into the air. If there is a face shield, it will also stop them from scratching your eyeglasses or shades. A lightweight motorcycle helmet will also weigh you down less and offer less wind resistance.

8. Stay Comfortable: Lightweight motorcycle helmets offer the same features and protection as standard weight helmets. The one important separation is the weight of the helmet while riding. With a lightweight helmet you’ll be equally protected with double the comfort.

9. Express Yourself: Lightweight motorcycle helmets come in a wide range of colors, styles and sizes. Some of them are specifically designed for men or women. An extra benefit of brightly colored helmets is that they make it easier for other drivers to see motorcyclists.

10. Set a good example: Motorcycle riders can feel good about wearing helmets. Remember that your choices may influence the decisions of your friends, co-workers or children. When you wear a safety helmet, you encourage other riders to do the same.

The only real obstacle to buying a lightweight motorcycle helmet is the cost. It’s vital to recognize that helmets can help you save thousands of dollars in the long run. Riding without a helmet puts you at a disadvantage when filing a motorcycle-related lawsuit, if you survive it.

The post 10 Ways A Lightweight Motorcycle Helmet Will Make Your Ride Better appeared first on Michael Padway & Associates.

If you’re a novice motorcycle rider, one of the most important items you can purchase is your motorcycle riding jacket. Your jacket should protect you while you’re riding, and it should be comfortable enough to wear during any adventure. Motorcycle jackets come in a variety of styles and materials, and each type offers a different advantage. Before you select a jacket, there are some factors you should consider.

Motorcycle Jacket Fabrics

When choosing a jacket fabric, consider your riding needs. Leather jackets have been worn by bikers for generations because they are ideal for resisting abrasions. Leather is thick and can provide adequate protection against the cold weather. Look for motorcycle leather that is between 1.1 and 1.4 millimeters. The downside to wearing leather is that it often isn’t waterproof.

An alternative to leather is a synthetic jacket that has Cordura panels. Cordura is a nylon material that allows air to pass through the jacket, which makes riding in warm climates more comfortable. Synthetic motorcycle jackets may also come with removable linings. You can find Cordura jackets in varying thicknesses, and most are lightweight and longer in length.

High quality synthetic motorcycle riding jackets are durable, water-resistant and breathable, but many do not last as long as leather. Certain textiles may become faded or dirty quicker than others, and many are difficult to clean because washing the fabric can wear it away. These jackets are also not as resistant to tears or abrasions as leather jackets. Additionally, the style trends change often.

Special Features on Motorcycle Riding Jackets

Most motorcycle jacket manufacturers design with the rider in mind. Because of this, many current styles have added features that enhance the experience of the motorcycle enthusiast. Durability, comfort and safety are essentials regardless of how long or how often you ride. The components you choose should depend on your own requirements and needs as a beginner biker.

Many synthetic jackets are constructed with extra ventilation. The mesh fabric panels that keep you cool during the hot weather may be problematic during the cold season. Determine whether or not you need this type of airflow system before you make a selection. You may be better off purchasing a jacket that has a weatherproof zip-up inner lining. There is also an assortment of waterproof options for wet weather situations.

As a new rider, safety should be your number one concern. Any well-designed motorcycle jacket can provide an element of protection, but some have additional safety features. If you want more security, purchase a jacket that has armor protection on the shoulders and elbows. This sturdy padding safeguards the vulnerable parts of your body. Armored jackets add bulk, so be sure to try one on in order to gauge your comfort level.

The Fit and Style of a Motorcycle Jacket

In general, a motorcycle jacket should not be too large. Leather jackets are cut to fit the body because loose leather can gather and catch on the road during a fall. A synthetic jacket should be giving enough to allow you freedom of movement, but the material shouldn’t hang too loosely. Sleeve cuffs should reach the wrists, and the hem of the jacket should rest at your hips or slightly above them. A waist-length jacket may not provide adequate protection. Some manufacturers of motorcycle riding jackets offer custom fitting to ensure that your jacket is tailors to your specific measurements.

Motorcycle jacket fashions range from modern designs to retro classics. Opt for a style that matches your personality as well as your other gear. While many riders prefer black jackets, beginners should avoid wearing dark colors because they are difficult to see at night. Remaining visible is vital when you’re on a bike, so choose a jacket with reflective strips or piping sewn into the fabric if you must wear black.

Your motorcycle jacket should enhance your personal style, keep you visible to other drivers, and safeguard you from certain injuries. The key is to select a jacket that allows room for movement but has enough fabric to provide a barrier against road rash. If you purchase a quality item from a reputable manufacturer, you will be protected and fashionable as you cruise the open road.

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When it comes to packing for a cross country motorcycle trip, there are a number of important things to keep in mind, including packing lightly, preparing for emergencies and dressing in layers.

Less is More – Pack Lightly

One of the most difficult parts about preparing for a cross country motorcycle trip is only taking what you need nothing more and nothing less. No matter how hard we try, the tendency is to overpack. How many times have you come back from a trip to find that you didn’t wear half of what you intended? Ideally, you want to pack enough clothes to get by for a few days. Pants, sweaters and sweatshirts can often be worn several days in a row, as long as they don’t get soiled or sweaty. Ideally, you should only need to pack extra underclothes, t-shirts and socks.

To conserve even more space, roll your clothes tightly rather than folding them. This not only saves space but also keeps your clothes from wrinkling. When it comes to packing toiletries, be sure to buy the small travel size variations or pour your favorite products in small plastic containers. It’s also a good idea to place any liquids inside of a Ziplock bag just in case you get a leak.

Prepare for Emergencies

One of the most important things to consider while riding on two wheels is to be prepared for emergencies. You won’t have the luxury of waiting for help inside the protection of a car so you must be extra prepared. In case you get a flat tire or break down on the side of the road, make sure you have a working cell phone and some sort of roadside assistance and towing service. This may be available through your motorcycle insurance company or a separate roadside service such as AAA or the American Motorcycle Association (AMA). Although most cell phone service providers cover large areas, it’s always a good idea to check with your service provider and find out if your cross country motorcycle trip will encounter any areas that have no or sparse service or signals.

Carrying a basic motorcycle toolkit is an absolute must as well. This can save you some down time for small fixes you can do yourself, such as changing bulbs in headlights, brake lights or turn signals. Sometimes you might find loose parts that rattle from being on bumpy roads. Even if you’re not a mechanic, it’s not uncommon for another motorcyclist or mechanic to stop by that may be able to help. Many bikes come with their own tool bags but if yours doesn’t be sure to pick one up. Other useful items for your emergency kit include: flashlight, first aid kit, extra bulbs, batteries, flares or reflectors, calling card or spare change to make a phone call in case you don’t have cell service.

Layers, Layers, Layers… and Easy Access

It’s important to wear protective gear at all times – comfortable motorcycle riding pants, jacket, gloves, boots and a durable motorcycle helmet. Choose motorcycle gear made of leather or special materials made to withstand motorcycle crashes and the varying weather conditions you may encounter. Gear that is made of bright colors such as yellow and that have reflective areas are also recommended, but if you’re set on wearing all black you can also buy reflective tape and decals to place on your gear and helmet.

Earplugs are another necessity. Even if you wear a full-face helmet, continuous air noise can cause a loss in hearing with prolonged riding. You can buy the disposable ones or you can order custom earplugs that are based on a mold taken of your ear.

Be prepared for changing weather. Dress in layers so that as it gets cold you can easily add more layers. Or, as it gets warmer, you can remove layers. Especially in cold weather, you want to be sure to layer up and dress comfortably while avoiding getting too sweaty. In the heat, you want to be sure to stay protected while avoiding getting too dehydrated.

Your extra clothing should be placed in a saddlebag or tank bag where you can easily access them. Rain gear (jacket, pants, waterproof booties), gloves, etc. should be readily available in case you need to pull over on the side of the road to quickly change.

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Aerostitch has a number of inseam options for motorcycle riding pants, and will also do custom alterations for you. This is a good thing, because few of us are exactly the same, and the effectiveness of all safety gear is partially dependent on fit.

Many riders buy less expensive alternatives, but remember for the most part, you get what you pay for. There is an alternative to Aerostich that is far less known, yet has some serious advantages, particularly for those of us who can’t quite get the fit we want in an Aerostich suit.

Motorport has been making high quality motorcycle riding pants for a long time, but they are nowhere near as adept at marketing.  Motoport makes their products to measure, so they are a great fit for all of us who are not exactly a rack fit.  The Motoport website gives explicit measuring instructions.  It takes five minutes or so to feel confident you have it right.  It takes less than two weeks to get your suit, unless they are particularly backed up, or there is some issue.  If there is a problem, they are great about alterations.  In fact, if you need an alteration or repair even years later, they take care of it at cost.

The motoport suits are predominantly two piece consisting of a custom top and custom motorcycly riding pants, but the first choice is what material you want.  They have everything from Kevlar jeans (REAL kevlar jeans, not jeans with a few kevlar pieces sewn inside), mesh, Cordura, and the top of the line – stretch Kevlar.  Since these suits last pretty much forever, I recommend going for the stretch Kevlar.

In addition to made to measure, Motoport will copy your favorite jeans or shirt.  Be aware, however, that most shirts have too much material, and you may need to adjust.  I ordered a shirt in mesh, which was a perfect copy, only to realize that my Polo shirts have a lot of room in the gut.

I have been wearing the Motoport Stretch Kevlar for decades, but recently burned the pants on an exhaust pipe.  In less than two weeks I had a new pair of perfect fitting, well armored, pants.  They match my old jacket almost perfectly, the differences being that I opted for the black reflective strips this time, instead of gray, and there has been a slight lightening of the jacket color in all the years I have owned it.  When I say slight, I doubt that anyone else notices.

Motoport armor is some of the best, and it molds to your body for comfort.  The stretch kevlar is always comfortable, and it breathes a little bit, so it can be worn in warmer weather than the Aerostitch.  In the summer I have worn it with shorts underneath, but I also have a pair of much more breathable pants that were made to duplicate a pair of jeans I sent in.  Those breathe far better.

In comparison to the Aerostitch, I feel that the Aerostitch Roadcrafter, their one piece, looks slightly better.  In two piece riding gear, there isn’t much difference, although Roadcrafter has more color choice.  On the Motoport side, the material is more comfortable in feel, more adaptable to warmer weather (and they make gear for hot weather), and the fit will be perfect for a wider range of riders.  I also like the armor better.  Arguably, the stretch kevlar will be more abrasion resistant, but there is no way of proving this with data.  Pricewise, it is hard to say, since you are comparing different products.  The Motoport Cordura one piece runs less than the Aerostitch Roadcrafter, but the Motoport Kevlar one piece is more.  The Motoport Ultra II stretch Kevlar two piece runs about the same as an Aerostitch one or two piece suit, but if you need much in the way of alterations, they are included for free with Motoport.

If I sound biased, it is only because I have had twenty years of experience with these products, and no complaints.  How often can you say that?

The post Motorcycle Riding Pants: A Kevlar Review of Motoport and Aerostitch appeared first on Michael Padway & Associates.

Motorcycle riders who do not support universal helmet laws often argue that full-face helmets hinder their ability to see traffic obstacles and hear on-coming traffic therefore contributing to accidents. However, a study conducted by The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) argues that motorcyclists that wear helmets are twenty-nine percent less likely to suffer fatal injuries.

In an effort to debunk the accusations that helmets hinder your ability to see and hear, the NHTSA sponsored a study that assessed a motorcyclist’s ability to hear and see different traffic conditions. The study involved a group of 50 motorcyclists with varying ages and riding experiences who were asked to perform certain maneuvers while driving in a two part study:

1. Vision Test: Driver’s were asked to change lanes whenever they heard a signal from a following vehicle. After hearing the signal, drivers were instructed to follow safe driving procedures by checking over their shoulder before changing lanes. Each driver was asked to repeat the vision test three times, once in a full-face helmet, then in a partial coverage helmet and finally with no helmet. NHTSA measured the degree of head rotation made by the drivers during these various exercises.

2. Hearing Test: During the same exam, the sound of the signal was adjusted to varying levels while signaling the drivers to change lanes. The minimum sound level that each driver could hear was recorded.

Although 50 drivers participated in the same test, half were studied for hearing while the other half was studied for vision.

Based on results published by NHTSA, 16 percent of drivers were able to compensate for lost of lateral vision by turning their heads farther – only four riders did not compensate. The drivers were not noted to require any additional time to turn their heads farther and check for traffic.

The hearing test did not show any differences between the driver’s ability to recognize auditory signals with or without a helmet. However, their ability to hear the signal clearly was affected by their speed of travel. The study showed that all riders needed a louder signal at a higher speed as a result of increased wind noise.

The release of this data has been a great benefit to those in support of helmet laws, and ultimately forced naysayers to switch their argument to a “freedom of choice” type logic; instead arguing that wearing a helmet should be at the discretion of every rider.

I’m not sure I buy it. Not just because I’m obviously a self-proclaimed advocate for motorcycle safety and the wearing of protective gear but for the simple fact that I’m a logical human being. There isn’t much of a difference between a seatbelt and a helmet. They both keep you from suffering a head injury by slamming into the ground or your own windshield.

Politics and obvious public health costs aside, I don’t understand why someone wouldn’t want to protect their skull. Regardless of your skill or experience level as a rider, you cant guarantee that other drivers on the road are paying attention. If you love to ride your motorcycle, you should want to ride it for as long as you can which would be pretty difficult with your brains on the pavement.

The post How Motorcycle Helmets Affect Vision and Hearing appeared first on Michael Padway & Associates.

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) released an article discussing recent years motorcycle accident statistics. The report indicates that a rise of motorcycle riders makes the rise of injury statistics a public safety concern.

• Between 2001 and 2008, more than 34,000 motorcyclists were killed and an estimated 1,222,000 persons were treated in a U.S. emergency department (ED) for a non-fatal motorcycle-related injury.
• The highest death and injury rates were among 20-24 year-olds, followed by 25-29 year-olds.
• More than half of all nonfatal injuries treated in EDs were to the leg/foot (30%) or head/neck (22%).
• Motorcyclist death rates increased 55% from 2001 to 2008 (1.12 per 100,000 persons in 2001 to 1.74 per 100,000 persons in 2008).
• The number of nonfatal motorcyclist injuries that were treated in EDs also increased, from nearly 120,000 injuries in 2001 to about 175,000 in 2008.

As a public safety issue, the CDC supports lawmakers on establishing stricter helmet laws nationwide. The CDC is also a strong advocate for motorcycle safety and helmet safety for all modes of transportation that require helmets.

Center for Disease Control suggests that motorcyclists always wear DOT-approved helmets along with protective clothing that is easily noticeable by other drivers. Along with these suggestions, CDC also reminds motorcycle riders of the basic safety measures:

• Do not drink and drive – and don’t let your friends do it either
• Avoid tailgating
• Maintain a safe speed at all times

Nationwide, 4,502 people were killed in 2010 from motorcycle-related accidents, which also lead to a total medical care and lost-productivity cost exceeding $12 billion in one year. The CDC estimates that wearing a helmet will decrease crash-related deaths by as much as 41%.

CDC also reported that California saved $394 million dollars of medical and lost-productivity costs as a result of its universal helmet law in 2010. Additionally – according to analysis of fatal crash data performed by CDC – only 12% of motorcyclists in the U.S. who were not wearing helmets came from an area with universal helmet laws. Sixty-four percent of these accidents were from states with partial helmet laws, and 79 percent were from states with no helmet laws in place.

The post Recent Motorcycle Accident Statistics appeared first on Michael Padway & Associates.

When my Alpinestars bit the dust, I did a canvass of half a dozen motorcycle shops, comparing feature for feature.  I read reviews, I talked to other riders, I hit the online forums, and I soul searched for my own balance point in the safety/comfort/hassle continuum.

By way of disclosure, as an attorney handling motorcycle accidents, I get regular exposure to the fact that 17.9% of motorcycle accident injuries involve the lower leg and foot.

Andy Goldfine was in town on a road trip, so I had to go over and try on a pair of his well respected Combat Boots, which are made by SIDI.  These are a game changer in a lot of ways.  Great quality leather always is a pleasure to wear, the soles were very cool looking and felt like they would work, and I liked the closure system a lot.

As much as I loved these boots, my little voice would not let me get a pair of boots that did not have solid shin protection.  I now focused my search on which pair of SIDI motorcycle boots I would get.  There is a reason SIDI owns the motorcycle boot segment.

I loved the look of the SIDI On Road boots.  These are the longest running style, have a great traditional look, but are updated with GoreTex.  However, they did not have the level of protection I was looking for.

I ended up getting the SIDI Adventure Gore boots.  They have the all-important stiff sole, which happens to be a lug pattern that looks good for walking.  They close with two buckles and a velcro flap.  One buckle tightens the instep, one the shin, and the velcro closes around the shin.  There is lots of stiffness and resistance to twisting an ankle, plenty of plastic nearly everywhere, but enough high quality leather to give them the feel and ambiance of a leather boot.  The usual features, like protection from the shift lever, are all taken to high levels.  The shift lever protection is plastic, and it is on both boots.

A really hard decision was to go with the height of these Sidi motorcycle boots, which is most of the way up the calf and shin.  At the end of the day, it doesn’t make a huge difference in comfort, although it will be warm in the summer.  They will also be a little less convenient to stuff in a bag.

The fit (I have a medium width, flat foot) is fantastic.  Even as stiff as these were out of the box, they were immediately ingratiating.  I felt like a little kid with new cowboy boots who wants to sleep in them.  Now that they are wearing in, they are so very much the better.

Of course, the high level of protection just feels good when you are on the bike, but the comfort reinforces this sensation as well.

On the downside, there are many reports of squeaking, particularly when these are new.  One online review said, “no, really” when describing how loud this was.  I found that the remedy of mink oil slowly quieted them down.  At least one person told me he used WD-40 successfully.  The culprit here seems to be the plastic or the plastic against the rubber.  I have mink oiled twice, and the squeaking is still there, but tolerable.

The other suggested adjustment I made was to put in orthotic footbeds.  There isn’t anything wrong with the factory footbeds (nor should there be, at this price point), but the aftermarket orthotics “take it up a notch” as Emeril would say.  With the orthotics, I often don’t take them off for several hours when I get to the office.  I can easily see keeping them on at a motorcycle gathering, and maybe even wearing them for a day at the races.

They are warm, however.  Choice of socks will be important on a warm summer day.

For those of you who watch Anthony’s video reviews at Revzilla, you know that he owns these Sidi motorcycle boots, has crashed in them twice, and loves them (maybe a little too much, as he describes them as “heirloom” quality).

I have no plans to leave my boots to my heirs, but these are by far the best motorcycle boots I have ever owned, and I can recommend them without hesitation.

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What sets carbon fiber technology apart from other materials is the alignment of atoms that make up the material. The carbon fiber itself typically measures only 5 micrometers in diameter and consists of mostly carbon atoms. The atoms bond together in a crystal alignment that runs parallel to the long axis of the fiber. This unique composition creates an extremely strong fiber for its size. Large pieces of carbon fiber material are produced by bundling thousands of these smaller fibers together and weaving them into a fabric. It can then be combined with a plastic resin, creating the carbon fiber reinforced polymer known as carbon fiber.

When carbon fiber technology was introduced to motorcycle helmets, the benefits to riders increased drastically:

Strength

Carbon fiber motorcycle helmets are stronger than those made with other commonly used materials. It can also be combined easily with other strong materials like Kevlar to create a stronger helmet shell. Carbon fiber motorcycle helmets offer an unparalleled level of shock deflection; during impact force is distributed equally across the surface rather than staying centralized to the impact area.

Durability

Carbon fiber motorcycle helmets provide a higher level of durability than other helmets. Cosmetically, they provide a higher scratch and crack- resistance than fiberglass helmets. Carbon fiber motorcycle helmets are also lighter than other helmets and surprising light given their strength, making them easier to wear.

Weather Management

Carbon fiber motorcycle helmets are perfect for all kinds of weather and are often made with breathable vents to accommodate warm weather riders. They are lightweight and offer riders ease of mobility and reduced weight/stress on the neck.

Another advantage of carbon fiber motorcycle helmets is that they adjust well to cold weather climates. A major concern for cold weather riders is the “fog factor” which affects your ability to see road conditions. Most carbon fiber helmets are built with anti-fog systems that combat reduced visor visibility.

Carbon fiber motorcycle helmets also offer an added level of noise protection, which is a huge advantage for reducing the amount of wind noise you experience. Reduced wind noise allows you to focus on traffic sounds, and also reduces your risk for hearing loss.

Overall, a carbon fiber helmet offers riders increased safety, durability and a more comfortable riding experience. It’s no surprise that decades of research and development for fiber technology has lead to industry domination by carbon fiber.

Carbon fiber motorcycle helmets range in price from around $200 to $1,000 (USD) and come in a variety of shapes and helmet types. If you haven’t ever tried one of these helmets, I recommend heading to your local dealer, getting fitted and at least talking to a specialist about the benefits of a carbon fiber motorcycle helmet.

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First and possibly most important is to make sure that you pack your motorcycle in an appropriate container or crate. Companies like Quick Crate offer solutions for shipping motorcycles including single-use and reusable crates for small and large-framed motorcycles. They’re certified by the US Military for safe stacking with up to 4,000 lbs of ammunition (12,000 lbs of pressure) and include all the necessary fittings to get your bike overseas:

• Front tire cradle
• 4 tie-down straps
• 4 soft-tie straps
• 4 D-rings mounted to the base panel of the crate
• Assembly without the use of screws or nails!

Purchasing a reusable crate provides you with a long-term solution to storage, and can also be shipped to any freight terminal and held for pick-up. If you’re planning to ship the motorcycle back (I would hope it makes it through your vacation!) you can store the reusable crate and use it for homeward transport as well.

When packing up your motorcycle, be sure to take the proper precautions to ensure that your cargo makes the journey safely and securely. You should always assume that carriers will treat your cargo based on standard protocol and not based on how you may cherish the contents of your package, so its important to protect your cargo from unexpected shifts during travel.

• Drain all fluids from the motorcycle
• Tie down the motorcycle and all its parts securely
• Remove the battery (for air travel)
• Lower the tire pressure

Next, you’ll want to make sure that you include a thorough and detailed packing list of your crate’s contents. A copy of your packing list should be included in your shipment, supplied to your carrier, and also kept with you for verification. Also make sure you take photographs of everything packed within the crate, as well as a photo of the crate when its ready for transport. In the event that your cargo is lost, damaged or compromised in any way, this type of documentation will help you recover any loss or damages.

After you’ve done the proper research and legwork to securely pack your motorcycle, you can begin asking for quotes from different shipping companies. Always remember that the least expensive company may not be the most reliable, so you can check online for reviews or even ask a local dealership for suggestions. When you’re getting a quote, be sure to get answers on the following topics:

• Crate Shipping Requirements / Motorcycle Shipping Requirements
• Insurance Options
• Length of travel for cargo
• Pick-up and Delivery Methods & Equipment Available (cost of port-to-port VS. door-to-door, do they have a forklift to manage the crate?)
• Cargo tracking options

Now that you’ve chosen a reliable shipping company, securely packed up your motorcycle and made endless documentation for the precious contents of your cargo, you’re ready to get on your way. Now all you’ve got to do is pack up and head to your foreign destination (and obsessively check your cargo tracking!).

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