This from Jones et al., in 2020. Helmeted patients were less likely to be admitted to the intensive care unit (20.3% vs. 23.7%, OR 0.82 (0.72-0.93)) and ventilated (7.8% vs. 12.0%, OR 0.62 (0.52-0.75)). Propensity-matched analyses consisted of 2541 pairs and demonstrated helmet use to be associated with an 8% decrease in hospital charges (B −0.075 (0.034)) and a 56% decrease in mortality (OR 0.44 (0.31-0.58)).
@BretTkacs
9 ай бұрын
I love when viewers d share data I can do research on... thank you
@WillieJohnRidesAgain
9 ай бұрын
@@BretTkacs I do a good bit of secondary data research myself so I tend to gravitate to those on population risks - makes it make sense to me
@d.f.9064
9 ай бұрын
Not riding with a helmet has gone with not wearing a seat belt. I believe in freedom. Freedom to not wear either if you prefer. But, like with smoking, costing society money because you enjoy the freedom is not fair to others. This aside, there are many other injuries that can happen on a motorcycle not involving the head, but yes, the head is most important. If you ride a motorcycle the risk of a lifelong injury are high. You accept this when you ride one. Don't complain if you're injured, in todays traffic, expect it. Or like me, don't drive or rarely drive choosing carefully when and where. Can't do this? Mass transit.
@collinyan7467
9 ай бұрын
I feel like its gotta be more significant than that. Ive crashed before and I saw the damage on my helmets and my head would not have been able to take it.
@WillieJohnRidesAgain
9 ай бұрын
@@collinyan7467 keep in mind, this study compared two groups. Technically, a person could crash, while wearing a helmet and die. They could be injured elsewhere too. This study isolated helmet use (as compared to not) and attributes the risk that can be assigned (or its protective effects) to only that. A near 60% reduction in deaths is is pretty significant. Also, less likely to need intensive care and intubation but you can see those are less significant since you could end up there with say, a chest injury or extremity fractures.
@4LowRocks
9 ай бұрын
Great topic, Bret. I was in a serious collision in March of this year. My helmeted head impacted the pavement and drug the left side along the pavement for a good slide. I don't know how far I slid, but I do recall seeing the tarmac rush past my eyes while sliding. I was wearing a HJC carbon fiber modular helmet. The impact and slide separated the communicator (Sena) from the helmet, popped the clear shield off, and ground down to the carbon fiber weave. Had I not had a helmet on, I'd likely be missing a lot of the left side of my chin up to my ear, and some forehead area. Dress for the slide, not the ride.
@michaelreifenstein2114
9 ай бұрын
my worst crash ended up with my sliding down the road face down. if i didn't have a helmet on i would not have a face. as it was i was in hospital for a few hours for observation. i was released with some grazing on my knee. helmet saved my life.
@bsmukler
9 ай бұрын
For what it’s worth, I had a low side crash on track while wearing an Arai Corsair X. I also slid on the face side. The face shield looked like someone took a belt sander to it, and the chin vent was partly ground down. The face shield stayed in place, and the mechanism was undamaged. I think the Arai design and build quality accounted for the shield staying in place. Just food for thought.
@alan-sk7ky
9 ай бұрын
exactly. The only time my head has hit the road it was chin/nose first. The state of the visor and flip up 😮 all I had was a bruse on my cheek.
@tedmarakas2626
9 ай бұрын
allow me to say...without a helmet you would have been a very ugly dude without a face and possibly dead. Glad to see that you are fine. Now go buy yourself a new and better helmet.
@bcisbell
8 ай бұрын
I'm happy that you're here to tell us about it. ATGATT
@andrewstrongman305
9 ай бұрын
I've had a couple of accidents where my head met the road. Those impacts MIGHT not have killed me, but my full-face motorcycle helmet allowed me to walk away without even concussion.
@NScherdin
9 ай бұрын
Same. One took about 1/3rd of the material off the front of the helmet, so I'd definitely have been missing some face after that one if I had not had the helmet. That one caused 3rd degree road rash on 20% of my body(was a dumb 16 year old not wearing any significant protection other than the helmet). Still was able to walk away though.
@somejerk1520
9 ай бұрын
Or...your giant 8lb fishbowl on your head contacted the road but your bare head would not have.
@somejerk1520
9 ай бұрын
@KurtFrederiksen Which of us failed math? Helmet proponents never want to talk about whiplash or broken necks cause by strapping 8lbs to your head. Or the circumference of the helmet vs that of your head, so a lot of road contact made by helmets would not have been made by a bare head. It literally is just basic physics and geometry. Now I'm not suggesting anyone ride helmetless, but these issues are more nuanced than they would seem.
@medler2110
9 ай бұрын
@@somejerk1520 Your 8lbs might be a bit out of date, maybe true of the helmets I wore in the 80's, but the full face helmet I wear today is 3.5lbs. Although you make good points about rotational injuries caused by wearing crash helmets, some modern safety standards include testing helmets for their ability to slide and not catch causing serious neck injury and I have seen airbag vests which also protect the neck by holding the helmet, but even with the improvements in design and reduction in weight, its still extra weight on a head and there is still a risk, but I feel less than the risk of death or serious injury caused by not wearing a helmet during a crash.
@somejerk1520
9 ай бұрын
@medler2110 About 4yrs back I was a candidate for a job testing motorcycles for TRC. The federal test requirements state that the rider + gear must weigh 200lbs or less. I'm right at 185lbs so finding boots, a suit, gloves and helmet that total 15lbs was crucial. I literally walked around Iron Pony with a postage scale and helmets from Icon, Nolan, and other high-end brands were coming in around 8lbs. Turns out the lightest full face there was the $99 Vega Stealth I already owned coming in at about 2lbs 1oz. Didn't end up getting the job because you have to weigh in before every shift and I could easily be one glazed donut over limit.
@pipersnuki
9 ай бұрын
Great video! As a neurologist I can attest that surviving a head injury does not mean you will necessarily have a quality of life that you would want. I have many patients with severe head injuries who sadly would rather not live that way. Forget even the severe head injuries, who would want all that road rash on your noggin or face? Not wearing a helmet is pretty dumb.
@RollModel724
9 ай бұрын
I agree.. but people also mistakenly think that helmets stop TBI and concussions.. new tech like MIPS (and others) can help though
@somejerk1520
9 ай бұрын
So is leaving the safety of your Volvo wagon and climbing aboard a vehicle that needs help from a leg to stay upright when parked. You ATTGATT folks put so much emphasis on safety while ignoring the 800lb gorilla.
@aknownothingsguidetoeveryt8588
9 ай бұрын
Not ignoring anything.. it is risk reduction not prevention. I would rather jump out the airplane with a parachute than without, football with a helmet without, bulletproof vest with than without in a shootout.
@joej2353
9 ай бұрын
@@somejerk1520No… I want to ride a motorcycle. It brings me joy. I understand the risks and I do the things that I can do to mitigate those risks. I can get killed behind the wheel of a car too. I wear a seatbelt and I don’t drive drunk or distracted, but it can happen just the same.
@somejerk1520
9 ай бұрын
@joej2353 But if riding without the protection of a helmet is dumb, then riding without the protection of a seat belt, airbag, and crumple zones is likewise dumb. I'm only addressing the OP's claim that riding without a helmet is dumb. If taking risks is dumb, then all risks are dumb, nobody gets to be the arbiter of dumb, just a hypocrit.
@dogsnmotorcycles
9 ай бұрын
I took my 5 year old helmet to the shop that I bought it at to shop for a new one. They asked if they could inspect it and I agreed. They took it apart and discovered that the EPS liner was perfectly in tact. They serviced the hinge on the chin bar and said that I didn't need a new helmet. They did sell me a new liner and cheek pads and the helmet was like new again.
@stephenbecker1463
9 ай бұрын
I would assume that the amount of sun and heat the helmet is exposed to significantly effects the aging process. Just my assumption
@hankjones3527
9 ай бұрын
Thanks for sharing your experience. One thing I've heard that seems likely is that the eps does age over time and becomes less effective even though it looks fine in a visual inspection. 🤔
@krollpeter
9 ай бұрын
This service should be the norm for expensive helmets and reputable companies, shouldn't it? Thanks for bringing this up!
@mikesavage8793
9 ай бұрын
The inner/comfort liner in most modern helmets, even entry level, can be replaced. It's a good idea to do it every couple of years, much less expensive than getting a new helmet. I've found that regular cleaning seems to rejuvenate the lining, not to brand new levels but it fits nicer after cleaning.
@ACoustaDC
9 ай бұрын
I would never shop any where else. Where was it BTW?
@chriscahill3667
9 ай бұрын
A good tip to get more life from your helmet is to buy an extra set of foam liners when you purchase your helmet, then when the time comes you can replace them. If you wait until that point to buy them they are often no longer available as your helmet has been replaced with a newer model. Also take the liner out and wash it at the end of summer or more often if you ride often.
@FreeFlyFreak69
8 ай бұрын
100% I went to replace the liner in my helmet. Non available, not even in the new old stock market, eBay etc.
@jacekpiterow900
9 ай бұрын
"you can't drop your helmet with your head in it" what a bummer ...
@BretTkacs
9 ай бұрын
Facts are facts 😁👍
@rex8255
9 ай бұрын
It has always been a goal of mine to not do that while riding. After to many beers at home... meh.
@MikesMotorbikeChannel
9 ай бұрын
Bret, I get it and agree that both a $150 helmet and a $600 helmet can meet a standard (DOT/SNELL/ECE, etc), and while I think the standards are an important starting point, those are standardized tests under controlled conditions, where real world crashes are anything but. I personally would rather trust my head to an established helmet manufacturer that has been doing this for awhile and has a track record of making safe helmets rather than using the latest internet darlings that still pass current test standards.
@Dave-sw2dm
9 ай бұрын
Which still doesn't mean more expensive unless they can just charge more because of notoriety. Fortnine did a video on what it cost shoei to make a helmet.
@kevinpakravan2947
9 ай бұрын
The UK has a “Sharp” rating of helmet safety where the protection at each impact point is weighted by the likelihood of impact in that area. I wish the industry would move to this because it gives more fidelity than just pass/fail. Each model is rated on a scale from 1-5.
@russcattell955i
9 ай бұрын
In competitions riders have to wear helmets. What do they wear ? The best they can afford or in the case of riders paid to wear brand X Y or Z, the best of the brand.
@Dave-sw2dm
9 ай бұрын
@@russcattell955i , it is called marketing. Their risks are much different than riding in traffic with cars and trucks. Their potential impacts are also much different.
@ayowser01
9 ай бұрын
Shoei or Arai only
@collinmc90
9 ай бұрын
Wow I never considered how the ear plugs would actually be better for hearing at 50 mph+ but that does make sense. Good video Bret, thanks. I'd love a deeper look into this.
@brianperry
9 ай бұрын
Wind noise is very fatiguing, not to mention damaging..l always wear filtered ear protection. That is that minimus the frequency of the white noise the wind produces...
@fallinginthed33p
9 ай бұрын
@@sneescampersThere are also motorcycle earplugs that let in speech and music frequencies, so you can talk on your comm system or listen to music without having to crank up the volume too high.
@beepbop6697
9 ай бұрын
I never ride without earplugs anymore. I used to when I was younger, but I cringe at the thought of not using earplugs now that I'm older and wiser. They cut out the immensely damaging wind noise and I can hear my Sena crystal clear with earplugs.
@dolbydarma
9 ай бұрын
If you have speakers in your helmet and compare the quality with and without earplugs you will be amazed how much better the sound is with the plugs in. Never would have believed it until I gave it a try and riding speed. 👍👍
@Luk4s7St
9 ай бұрын
@@dolbydarmaabsolutely agree! I mounted intercom before purchased Alpine Tour earplugs. I was afraid with earplugs I would make sound much louder to hear music but effectively it is applicable only at standing still or very low speed. At higher speed my Cardo was out of volume range without earplugs. With them I still can make louder but don’t need to! Quality of music sound and clarity of phone calls are much higher with earplugs. Since I discovered it I never ride without earplugs anymore.
@GMWestVillage
9 ай бұрын
This video is an excellent helmet overview. It is a lovely review of the literature without introducing personal bias. I am an ER doc commuting by motorcycle since before Med school. Motorcyclists need better information about skill set development and what our safety gear does and does not accomplish. THANK YOU; please support the channel because this channel supports us riders. Again thank you
@Snoozzzzzze
9 ай бұрын
When helmets were introduced for soldiers in the 1st world war the number of troops in hospital with head injuries actually increased which confused the doctors and generals until someone pointed out that those soldiers would have been dead without one.
@gabrielkopp2036
9 ай бұрын
Great info..I live in a state with no helmet law but I still wear one.. I would like to see you do a video on air bag vests if you could
@robertfrank886
9 ай бұрын
Agree completely- I’m in South Carolina (no helmet law) and ALWAYS use a helmet and airbag vest. Amazing how few people here wear the proper gear.
@paulbeckwith2172
9 ай бұрын
Excellent video Bret, wearing or not wearing a helmet might save your life after a crash, but not wearing a helmet you might wish you hadn’t survived… put a lid on and think of your family
@Scott___T
9 ай бұрын
Well said Bret! I like the quote; helmets save head injuries; rider choices save lives. I appreciate the open dialog about helmets. I wear one all the time but support everyone's choice to make that decision for themselves.
@a.r.t.4611
9 ай бұрын
My Caberg was 9 years old when I changed it. The shell and visor were in very good condition, but the lining had compressed to a point where the helmet was becoming loose. I tried smashing the shell twice with a lump hammer. The hammer bounced off the shell, with minor scratches on the surface. It might be choice in the US to wear a helmet, but your skull won't withstand the impact when it impacts a vehicle or tarmac. Be smart; ALWAYS wear a helmet.
@bsmukler
9 ай бұрын
This was really well thought out, researched, and presented. Thank you for producing it! I think the helmet issues are complex and interesting. As you know, there are also British tests (SHARP) as well as the European standards and the FIM standards. There is also the factor of brand loyalty, country of origin biases, and numerous factors such as the conditions of the distribution warehouses where helmets are stored prior to purchase, and of course the environmental conditions the helmets endure after purchase. I think one concern has been the unknown condition of the foam liner, or layers, over time, and whether it is possible to generalize regarding when to stop trusting that the liners are okay. I have actually had one helmet (mid-priced Harley helmet) “rain” foam particles after just a few years. My current oldest helmet is a six year old XD4, which I seldom use. The comfort pieces (e.g. cheek pads) don’t like to stay locked in, and the helmet is definitely roomier than before. My most recently retired helmet (Corsair X) was only about four years old, but saw much more use than my other helmets, had gone through a few sets of liners, and was showing wear on the chin strap. I think the various standards are the floor, and that it truly is reasonable to believe that some manufacturers use design, materials, hands-on construction, and multi-stage quality checks, that do result in trustworthy products. I have various helmets, including a “good” carbon fiber helmet, but I am accustomed to Aria’s products, and also find the interior materials and construction of the Arais to be of noticeably higher quality than the more affordable, though similarly rated, alternatives. As for safety in general, it is hard to believe that any adult, who has likely had a few hard knocks to the noggin over the years, does not realize our fragility. It doesn’t take much speed or force to effect serious, possibly permanent, injuries. My track experience has led me to use gauntlet gloves and, usually, track boots while riding sport bikes on street, as well as (thanks to your videos) clunky but safe off-road boots with my adventure bikes. At my age, I want to limit the downtime of waiting for bones or tendons and ligaments to heal (I’m sporting a walking boot now, due to a sports overuse injury), and good gear is really cheap insurance. Thank you again for the thought provoking video.
@garybrown1404
9 ай бұрын
Outstanding commentary! Former biker, retired by age & infirmity, not choice.
@garyb931
9 ай бұрын
Really good vid. I wear earplugs all the time even on a 5-minute ride and they have no apparent interference with my hearing. I can attest to the stats that the front of your head is more likely to come in contact with the ground. Many years ago, I was Tee-boned at an intersection where I high-sided after impact, when I woke up with a 750 Katana on my leg, I had gouge marks down the left-hand bottom side of my full-face helmet. The head impact wasn't too hard but without a helmet, the end result could have been different.
@Maxid1
9 ай бұрын
3:58 I'm going to make the brash assumption, if you cut your helmet in half, you should replace it. If you're going to continue to ride.
@jasondunn8894
9 ай бұрын
Great video Brett. Often wondered if the 5 year helmet rule was just marketing. Mandatory helmets here in Australia and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Wearing this one piece of equipment when riding is a no brainer. 👍
@TheBaggyT
9 ай бұрын
Totally agree... and I also thought the 5-year "rule" was just marketing too. Otherwise, if you never have an accident, you never need to buy a new one!
@DSplatter
9 ай бұрын
Or you’ll end up a no-brainer
@markellott5620
9 ай бұрын
@@TheBaggyT It will get sloppy over time. The more you wear it, the quicker that will happen, but it will happen.
@hankjones3527
9 ай бұрын
I find varying views on helmet laws fascinating. It seems in the US there is a significant portion of the population vehemently opposed to helmet laws. Yet we have them here and it's broadly a popular law. Go figure.
@rahtikone
9 ай бұрын
I noticed the same 🤕 6 years old nolan @@markellott5620
@shaikhmimran13
9 ай бұрын
Bret is killing the big industry marketing machine ! One video at a time
@BretTkacs
9 ай бұрын
🤣
@WAZZUjohn03
9 ай бұрын
Well presented and I happen to agree with all of the points made. I especially agree that choosing lower levels of protection might not be the difference between life and death, but your injuries might be such that life is no longer the preferred outcome.
@thepcguy007
9 ай бұрын
A significant number of riders will have anecdotal evidence of a helmet saving their head, Like that time I was street riding in the rain, and my front hit a pedestrian crossing while turning right at super slow speed. The front washed out because of the paint, the bike literally pulled me down and I hit asphalt face first. I got up, hit the kill switch, a guy got out of his car to help me pick up the old bike, checked it out, dusted myself off, and went to the office. This kind of little fall will never make it into the official statistics, because there was no medical attention required. However, nobody will ever convince me that the helmet did not save me from a major concussion*. I'd be willing to bet that if every little story like mine was added to the statistics... the picture would become a LOT more favorable to helmets. * I did suffer symptoms of a minor concussion like slight nausea, some dizziness when turning my head etc., but didn't go to a doctor because I'm an idiot like that.
@VentiMocha1Rasp
9 ай бұрын
I really like the way you cover the details, the parameters that others may not cover or simply they miss. This comes down to "what is your test group" and you really exploded that out in the Michigan discussion. Great mind!
@dave-d
9 ай бұрын
I fell off a horse onto a paved road recently with correct headgear and knocked myself out for the first time ever. Doing about 10mph from about 6 feet up. The outer shell was cracked a little. This really made me appreciate my motorcycle helmet even more. It's one bit of kit to really look after and check thoroughly from time to time. If dropped onto stones I'd say it's well worth checking for shell damage due to point impact. Not so bad on a flat surface perhaps. Thanks Bret. Great info as always.
@FranciscoLopez0
9 ай бұрын
This is going to be a classic and a must watch for all new motorcycle riders. That last point is very important, about safety mentality and how choosing not to wear PPE might be the determining factor on the longevity of a rider's career.
@BretTkacs
9 ай бұрын
I hope you are right about it being a popular video. I think riders need videos that are thought provoking
@techdragn
9 ай бұрын
I grew up hill climbing. I have this nice natural smile, because I started off using a full face helmet. Several occasions I would have lost my teeth if I didn’t have that helmet. I always wear a helmet, boots and jacket at the minimum, since they don’t make a business casual motorcycle pant, on all my rides. A helmet is not required in Montana, but I still remember those face impacts 45 years ago, so always wear a helmet. THANK YOU for the 5 year thing. That one has bugged me forever
@fuglbird
5 ай бұрын
A very good video. You may want to update your statement at 1:50 that two helmets are giving the same protection if they comply with the same standard. Some helmet complied with the 22-6 standard before it became a standard. You can find many other examples. That's progress and that's one way standards are developing. You may want to take a look at "The United Nations Motorcycle Helmet Study", 2016, page 25, table 4, "Comparison of tests included in different motorcycle helmet standards or regulations" for other examples. No standard includes everything.
@dw8931
9 ай бұрын
In Austria, after wearing helmets became mandatory in the late 70s, the number of organ donors dropped dramatically. (Rem.: every Austrian citizen is a potential organ donor unless they decline before the accident.) I don't need any other statistics.
@richardread6738
9 ай бұрын
Hi Bret - this is the first time I’ve ever commented on a KZitem vid. Thank you so much for this video. Well researched and well presented. Even in Australia (where we have to wear helmets), this is such a significant piece of knowledge for us all to know. Thank you.
@enduromotorradtouren
9 ай бұрын
About the outer liner: About 30 years ago I was at the Schuberth factory (then in Braunschweig). They had old shells on the roof, 365 days in sunlight. What they said 30 years ago: The "plastics" of the outer shell are much better than in the 70ies and should last half a lifetime. Whereas the inner liner... Of course you should be careful about your helmet. The best helmet is the one that fits your head best. Thanks for your myth busting, Günter/Nürnberg
@RufusCapstick
9 ай бұрын
Apart from anything else, it's too darn cold to ride without a helmet where I live 😆
@MiddlingAdventure
9 ай бұрын
Thank you for your time and dedication to education, sir. Happy holidays!
@curthenry9398
9 ай бұрын
My last crash was a 50 mph highside where I face planted on the pavement. The face shield was worn almost all the way through along with the the chin bar. My riding jacket and pants had hole through the the armor. My boots had hole to where you could see my socks. I walked away with a 3/4" road rash on my wrist from my glove rolling down, bruised and stiff and sore. I was okay after the crash rode the bike home with bent bars and foot peg.
@MrRickrm
9 ай бұрын
Once again a fantastic presentation. Thanks for doing this. I grew up riding dirt. Full face only, those rocks, bugs, twigs are killers. I like a modular, but still after 50 years of riding, full face is my go to. Now ear plugs are a must and by far cotton balls work the best and most comfortable.
@UndCon
9 ай бұрын
Safe riding approach saves lives - probably more so than the helmet itself. Great video Bret!
@francistotoleking5960
9 ай бұрын
Thank you Bret for this very instructive video. I will add my experience to this regarding “drop it / replace it “. I owned a BMW System 7 helmet (made of carbon fibber) and I was not very careful when I was short moving my motorhome in parking place, so I dropped it at least two times, once from table (less then 1m) and also once from upper bed (about 1m60). I saw no sign of damage. But then I dropped it form my sofa (40cm) and I knew by the sound it made that I f*c**d it. And indeed, the external impact liner was cracked. My understanding is that it was damaged by the previous high fall and/or multiple falls, and that the last one just revealed the previous invisible damages. This may be also related to the strong carbon material that may not be as elastic as others. I ended up replacing it by the same one, and I now have spare parts and internal liner for the new one. My conclusion : damage of a simple drop may not always be visible, but may affect the external liner (especially the made of carbon ones). PS : your video ends at 15:37 but the there is a few minutes blank…
@CosmicSeeker69
8 ай бұрын
for what it's worth - I totally concur. I was a Snap-On tools dealer and it became extremely obvious to me that lots of tools appeared to survive abuse - only to terminally fail at some later time.
@TheBaggyT
9 ай бұрын
I haven't ridden a motorbike in 8 years (just can't afford one at the moment), but this video looked interesting... and it kept my attention right to the end! Very good, informative, and well-researched. Love the practical demonstration. Definitely a video I will pass onto anyone who regurgitates one of those myths.
@goldfieldgary
9 ай бұрын
Having suffered serious injuries, including a broken jaw, from a bicycle accident at the age of 16, I have never questioned using a helmet while riding a motorcycle.
@opichocal
9 ай бұрын
Excellent job on this video! I ride with a full faced helmet anytime I leave my neighborhood. However I almost never ride with a helmet if I’m on my scooter with my dogs around my neighborhood. I will say I split the back of my head open riding at night in my neighborhood because I hit a brick in the road. I hit the concrete so fast and it really scared me. Luckily I was only going about 20mph and it didn’t do any permanent brain damage. Helmets definitely save lives but the brain inside it could prevent most accidents
@YankiRides
9 ай бұрын
great insights. price does not equal safety. love that point
@andrewarnott6112
9 ай бұрын
Yep, but just because 2 hemets are dot approved, doesn't mean one didn't just pass and the other could have passed with 3 times better results. Yes they both passed. You keep your bell and ill keep my arai. Natural selection at its finest
@markpousson5830
4 ай бұрын
GREAT VIDEO! I live in the Deep South and temps here often get in the triple digits. For years I’ve worn just a carbon fiber half helmet. But now I’ve change my strategy for what to wear based on where and when I ride. Highway speeds or when I travel, I wear a full face/modular helmet. For just “local” riding and lower speeds, I still wear my half helmet. If I’m a a rally in a State that doesn’t require a helmet, I might ride without a helmet if it’s just a 5 min ride to get from point A to B and under 30-35 mph. I ALWAYS ride with ear plugs that have a sonic filter in them. Been riding most of my life and have severe tinnitus when I don’t wear them. As for the 5 year rule, I pay little attention to the time and more attention to when the helmet “loses its fit.” Once it becomes more of just bowl sitting on top of my head, I get a new one. Appreciate all the time and effort you made putting this info into the video. One of the BEST I’ve seen on this topic.
@1over137
9 ай бұрын
Ear plugs improving hearing. I learnt this while DJ'ing. After a few weeks I really started to fear for my hearing. So I put ear plugs in. What I didn't expect to happen was that people coming into the DJ box to make requests or to ask me something... I could hear them absolutely fine with the ear plugs in, far better than without! I think it comes down to the ear plugs dampening "most" of the volume and particularly most of the high-frequency. This allows you hearing more atuned to 1kHz and below, where voices are and babies cry, to work far better. It's like you raise the signal to noise ratio.
@dw5523
9 ай бұрын
I'd love a Bret Rants episode about helmets, or a whole series you do once a month or however often something needs a well thought out tongue lashing.
@robertpeachey8348
9 ай бұрын
Thanks for taking the time to do this video much appreciated from Scotland !! ,
@jimjoelliejack
9 ай бұрын
I can’t understand why anyone would want to ride without a helmet. I was on duty as a Paramedic, I was on an emergency call when I pulled out of a side road on to a Main Street, it was dark and I had been give right of way by the traffic, I had lights and sirens on, as I got to the middle of the road I heard a loud bang and saw sparks flying down the road, I had been struck by a motorcycle doing over 60 mph on a 30, he had overtook the stationary traffic. When me and my oppo got to him he wasn’t breathing and his right leg was bent around his neck over his shoulder, one side of his helmet was hanging off. We treated him on scene and amazingly he survived his awful injuries, I was told two things saved him, his helmet after his head hit a metal lamppost and the fact that his was blind drunk. Always wear a proper fitted helmet and don’t D&D. Great video.👍
@BretTkacs
9 ай бұрын
😲
@XtreeM_FaiL
9 ай бұрын
"Blocking the vision." People never say that when they drive a car and a car will compromise your vision much more than any helmet.
@BretTkacs
9 ай бұрын
True
@mddale
9 ай бұрын
I had the same thought when MD pressed to simplify MC licensing in order to get those chronically riding unlicensed as that population was over-represented in riding accidents and death. My hypothesis was that rushing that cohort through licensing would certainly reduce the numbers of unlicensed having bad outcomes but not affect the gross numbers; it'd just move those "bad decisionmakers into the licensed cohort and serve to put our sport in worse light.
@jwfinley7808
9 ай бұрын
I was in a motor cycle accident in the early 80s. I flew 30ft before I hit the ground. I was'nt wearing a helmet and ended up in coma. My friends at the time said if I was wearing a helmet I would of broke my neck!! MYTH??
@wileytw55
9 ай бұрын
Just like your instructional videos, this was concise and to the point, thank you. I have been riding for about 50 years. In that time I've had two bad wrecks. Once I missed a curve, went off the road through a barbed wire fence. The top wire of the fence hit the front of my full face helmet, ripped my leather jacket, took off the face shield. Without it, I am certain it would have removed my head. The second one i was hit by a car, flew over the car landing on the back of my head on the pavement. The helmet was broke, I had road rash on my back.
@blacktiger955i
9 ай бұрын
One thing not mentioned when considering if you need a new helmet was the material it's made from. Back in the old days (70s/80s) when they were made from Polycarbonate, they were affected by UV light and DID therefore need replacing after a few years. Helmets made from Carbon composites are much less affected by UV and can be used for much longer.
@bottmar1
8 ай бұрын
I have had the same helmet for over fifty years. The shell has no damage from UV light at all. The interior is bad though. And that helmet only cost me $12. Nuff said.
@airmotivewelding8012
9 ай бұрын
Great video Bret! This is great information, thank you for the obvious work that went into making it👍. A helmet is a huge part of making the ride better! Love my Arai, gladly PAID, for the fit!
@markhawkins6276
9 ай бұрын
I once read a supposed quote from Evil Knievel "I never mount a motorcycle without first donning a helmet", Truth or myth? I was in a motorcycle accident in 1981. Had to have 13 stiches in my chin and my full faced Bell helmet was broken in two at the lower face portion. I'm a firm believer in wearing helmets!
@arainmk
9 ай бұрын
What I have learnt from my personal experience is that a helmet becomes unfit for use when it becomes too loose. Previously I did not use any liner when wearing them and they became loose within a two to three years, from all the sweat which I think reduces the life of a helmet. Since I have started wearing a bandana or whatever it is called, I have observed that the helmet does not lose its size a quickly.
@rodintoulouse3054
9 ай бұрын
Thanks Brett. As usual, factual and straight to point. no fillers or tic toc effects.
@mikemarthaller8789
9 ай бұрын
Well done Back in my parachuting days i simply said those who did not wear helmets had nothing inside worth projecting
@human1513
9 ай бұрын
Thanx for a great video. My head is lighter than 11 pounds as she once told me, "You are brain dead" when I goofed something up. LOL
@MattLitkeRacing
9 ай бұрын
I thought I needed a larger helmet until I was educated by Impact Racing about proper fit. I’ve seen many people wanting to buy a helmet that’s multiple sizes too large. Like small women asking for an XL
@snow8581
9 ай бұрын
Great video! Being a lifelong rider (I'm retired now) on street and having raced motocross/trials/etc I have taken my share of accidents, some fairly severe. And I can say I will not ride without a helmet and will swear to a helmet more than once saving my noggin. Both my sons wear their helmets without fail any time they ride also. And your right about the earplugs, I wore earplugs both times I rode up to and past the arctic circle (both Dempster and Dalton highways) and think they also think they helped with the fatigue factor of having a constant roar of wind in your ears. Here in Colorado helmets are still a choice but I will choose my helmet every time.
@BretTkacs
9 ай бұрын
You won't find me without a full-face helmet 👍
@JBean_COCR
9 ай бұрын
In 1978 as a young man I crashed my dirt bike and landed on my head and shoulder after flying 140' through the air. Back in those days we had 3/4 helmets mostly, full coverage were new and quite expensive. My Bell helmet was broken in half and hung in my buddies garage from the chin strap. Helmets have come a long way. I had a skull fracture and lost 3 days I'll never remember (in hospital), a broken collarbone and shoulder blade, and four broken ribs. I'm lucky to be alive (landed in a recently plowed field) per the doctors and nurses. I still ride but always wear my safety gear. Thanks for making this video.
@nocapoca5313
9 ай бұрын
One of my friend just died in a bicycle accident because of head injury. She had no other visible injuries. Helmets do save lives even on bicycles.
@brianlekei8920
9 ай бұрын
Than you Brett. You confirmed my experience of a crash on the 101 south of San Jose. My daughter and I both survived but our experience was that both of us totally wiped out the chin bar of our full face helmets. I have known for a long time what you proved, our quality of life would be much lower with faces wiped out if we were wearing anything but full face helmets. 1/2 helmets and beanies may save your life but not your face. Well done, thank you.
@Wintersdark
9 ай бұрын
Detailed rant video please! These are my favourite videos you do, where you're getting actual research and often doing your own when necessary. There's a LOT of misinformation, old wives tales, and information that *was* true but is no longer yet still persists. It's nice to have a strong reference for answering those.
@andersnilsson6625
9 ай бұрын
Thanks Bret for another great video! Factual and informative, you give us so much valuable information, and WITHOUT advertising. Many thanks to you and everyone who supports you! And YES of course we want more of this 💕😄😀
@userwhocantfindaname
9 ай бұрын
on the topic of helmets save lives, In 2017 I was in an accident that I woke up from 3 weeks after it happened and I can without a doubt say that I would not be here if I hadn't had it on. this video was well prepared and presented. Thank you for helping keep people informed especially on a topic that is this important.
@dienekes4364
9 ай бұрын
I've been riding Bikes for 40 years and am definitely an advocate for wearing helmets. That being said, I did get hit once because I was wearing a helmet and I couldn't tell which direction a car was coming from. I was riding through a parking lot and heard the engine rev, but couldn't tell which direction it was coming from so I couldn't avoid the car that backed out of his parking spot. I've also been in a couple of accidents on the freeway where I 100% believe the helmet protected me from serious injury or death. Today, I wear a full-face helmet when I ride outside of town (planning on going over 45 or 50 mph) and a skull cap when I ride inside of town (so I have better directional hearing).
@JKWheeler
9 ай бұрын
At the five year point I was forced to replace my otherwise pristine Shoei Neotec helmet because the liner had deteriorated and a Sheoi had discontinued making replacements. All the stock was gone from everywhere I looked. Manufacturer forced obsolescence.
@SmittyAZ
9 ай бұрын
When they're pretty and OLD / Replaced, do you display them in the garage? I do. My Italian Flagged Arai and Vemar that I purchased in '08 for my duc, I display them.
@lessmore444
9 ай бұрын
Multiple helmets have saved me from multiple head injuries & at least one that most likely would have been fatal. The only laws i need to keep me wearing them are those of physics
@markj3517
9 ай бұрын
The eye protection available from a full face or flip helmet with the visor down, is not to be undervalued either. Having both eyes is rather better than just one say.
@briangc1972
9 ай бұрын
If you do track days, most require a helmet to be under 5 years old due to their insurance regulations.
@1969triumph
Ай бұрын
This video is one of the first that I have find which gave a Non bias view of the facts. Very Impressed.
@killerx1307
9 ай бұрын
Great job! The best way to avoid a head injury is to avoid the accident.
@BretTkacs
9 ай бұрын
Absolutely
@roblorentz4176
9 ай бұрын
Great video. Decades ago when I bought my first helmet the guy said "if you got a $50 head, I got a $50 helmet for you." Opted for a somewhat better one then and spend up for Arai now because I like the fit and features. I believe it's an adult riders choice as to wear a lid or not but agree that it doesn't make much difference in a fatal wreck. Winding up with a brain injury or no face is far worse.
@Titan500J
7 ай бұрын
Nice video! For what it's worth, I heard through a paramedic that after an accident, almost ro a man that the riders that were wearing ALL there gear were standing/ sitting talking and responding to questions. Sadly the riders that did not were all the gear were on stretchers. I know this anecdotal but it's food for thought.
@BretTkacs
7 ай бұрын
As a former EMT/Firefighter I can say you won't find me not wearing my helmet or riding gear. But that's because I might just live through and a missing face or full body skin graph is not fun.
@kiwikidusa
9 ай бұрын
Wearing a helmet while riding a motorcycle is a no brainer. The earplugs improving hearing though at higher speeds was a surprise. When I ride 10+ hours days across the continent or any 1+ hour ride I usually wear earplugs. Now, I'm gonna wear them even on short trips if freeway riding is involved. Thanks you Bret!
@chrisrutledge9330
9 ай бұрын
Best helmet video ever. Especially the comment that if the snugness of the helmet fades after a few years - and they all do - the value of the helmet begins to be compromised. The industry sells way too much over-priced equipment with claims that it has special safety benefits over and above middle price gear. Oh - and as for the shell being unable to survive any rough handling....explain how boat hulls take thousands and thousands of poundings into dense water waves....and don't need to "be replaced every 5 years"
@BretTkacs
9 ай бұрын
One reason I like my Shoei helmets is that I can buy/replace the liners every couple of years
@johnroberts3824
9 ай бұрын
I was (embarrassingly) in a motor scooter accident, not wearing a helmet. My right ear was 90% detached and had to be sewn back on. The plastic surgeon charged a whopping $30K to do that. Blue Cross offered to pay $5K. I had to sue the other driver just to cover my medical bills. I was super lucky that I did not suffer brain trauma. I learned my lesson the hard way -- ALWAYS WEAR A HELMET.
@rideitalia
9 ай бұрын
Interesting subject, enthusiastically presented as ever. I have some issues with this though, Bret. On the recommended replacement time I'd add some detail. Helmets degrade over time from two factors, one is the internals as you say, so a better metric would be hours used rather than how many years after buying it. But it's also down to a degradation of the outer shell, all of which degrade over time, some materials quicker than others - polycarbonate helmets years ago were recommended to be replaced every year or two! If you're in the sun more the degradation will be quicker. Next - safety standards present a minimum safe level for compliance. Your cheap lid will have passed this standard if it has the stamp and will be safe, splendid. This does not mean the expensive helmet doesn't have a greater lavel of protection though, it is most likely far safer. (Notwithstanding the other things you are paying for, brand, sure, but also quality of strap buckles, liner materials etc etc). Your drop test, ok, but let's just highlight the word visibly. A small drop is probably fine, I agree, but fibre damage may well not be visible, it may have degraded, even slightly. Is that cheap helmet now moved to a point where it wouldn't pass the safety test? Agree with your conclusions on using death rate as a safet metric, true for all questions over safety gear. Big fan of your questions over 'helmets save lives' segment. Keep up the good work. Adam
@ntdscherer
9 ай бұрын
" it is most likely far safer." What are you basing that on?
@rideitalia
9 ай бұрын
Descriptions of construction and materials used. Years working in the trade hearing helmet sales staff selling their stuff (with the accompanying bs and actual tech specs). Huge numbers of articles found from pretty basic google searches. I’ve also not seen any actual evidence to the contrary. Cheers.
@Dave-sw2dm
9 ай бұрын
There have been many "shootouts" over the years where the cheaper helmet won. This was before most reviews are bought and paid for. Buy what fits you best so you can ride all day in comfort regardless of price.
@rideitalia
9 ай бұрын
Passes standard and fits best is definitely a good policy. @@Dave-sw2dm
@1050cc
9 ай бұрын
EXCELLENT, thank you 🙏 One thing I have noticed is that if you decide you value helmet manufacture dates, you ususally lose 2 or 3 years of your 5 before your new helmet arrives. Most suppliers will not be able to tell you the manufacture date. Good ones will go to the warehouse, lift the comfort liner and check. Nearly always, that helmet will have been in storage with a supplier for at least a year, usually more. I'd say, check always. If they can't be bothered to tell you, take your business somewhere else ;-)
@mikec1254
9 ай бұрын
I always learn something from your videos. You are always fair and honest with your content
@raymorris952
9 ай бұрын
Great video, excellent advice, Dropped my helmet twice, and never replaced it, now I know I did the right thing, also I bought a new helmet and stored it for 3 years, my mates keep telling me it needs to be replaced because it's now 6 years old, I told them that they are full of crap,now I know I'm right, 😀, never ride without plugs, don't know how anyone does, the noise is god awful, if it wasn't for earplugs I don't think I would ride much.
@robertbelasco3859
9 ай бұрын
There is clearly a different breed of rider who chooses a fun face helmet or modular than those who don’t. I think that is the explanation
@camillez.7535
8 ай бұрын
Excellent. Well timed as I am a soon to be new mature rider and in possession of a very old helmet. Thanks!
@ecalzo
9 ай бұрын
always super content Sir. Bret .. keeping to following you..
@matt_kelly
9 ай бұрын
If you smack into a wall at 100 MPH a helmet isn't going to save you, but that's not what they are designed to do. I slipped on my bike on a forestry bridge a couple of weeks ago and went down sideways and my head hit the railing of the bridge, which is about 10" from the deck. I had a massive headache and nearly threw up on the ride home. Next day I could feel my brain pressing against the side of my head and a headache that wouldn't subside, I was in agony. Two weeks later I feel fine. It's hard to say if I would have survived without a helmet, I probably would have, but I probably would have split my skull and lost a massive amount of blood before someone found me out in the bush. It's really that simple.
@bridgestreetgolf
9 ай бұрын
Very good instruction/information. The one item I would add to the "I cannot see out of my helmet/my peripheral vision is not good in this helmet" comments. Not being trained in the USA, I was taught, and have made it my moto, to keep my head on a swivel. Keep the head moving. Do not rely upon peripheral vision; I want to look in my mirror, I turn my head; I want to see what is to the left or right at any time, I turn my head; I want to see what is behind me before I change lanes or execute a turn, I turn my head. Keep the head on a swivel. Cheers, TH
@Richo435a
9 ай бұрын
Awesome and thank you. That was very interesting and confirmed my understanding after 50+ years of riding. People have said you need to replace your helmet for XYZ reason but I just couldn't believe their reasoning. Replacing a helmet after it and your 12lb packet of mush / head hit the ground is very understandable and reasonable. Thank you again.
@haroldmosher7071
9 ай бұрын
As a Motorcycle Instrustor I agree with wearing a helmet at all times. Great explanaition as to why.
@Dimitris-td5kb
9 ай бұрын
50 years, mainly sport rider and I can say this: Put your full gear on and ride always aware of your surroundings. The rest is, how lucky you are...
@steveh545
9 ай бұрын
Just a thought, about price vs. safety. Wouldn't equivalent safety certifications merely imply two helmets have met the same minimal standard? It's pass - fail I assume. Might some more expensive helmets actually exceed the criteria, and therefor be safer? Same applies to cheaper helmets of course. So, the DOT, Snell, or Euro system, just indicates they meet the minimal standard for certification. Owning a pricier helmet, i'd like to think it's a bit safer, lol. That goes without saying. Lets see more ECE ratings. Some cheap helmets might surprise us, and some expensive ones might as well. I'm going to stick with the big brands, on the hope that years of experience and testing might account for something. Maybe it's all in my head, which is all in my helmet (Hopefully).
@jpsholland
9 ай бұрын
I have an Answer M-10 full kevlar motocross / enduro / rally helmet. I replaced the inner lining and have tailor made a new one. I went to a official helmet inspection included a x-ray picture. The helmet turn out to be in outstanding condition and ready to race, so it received his sticker of approval. I never told the inspector, which did not know the Answer M-10, that i bought it in the early nineties. The inspection was in 2018. (by the way, back those days Answer made their own helmets in the USA, not in China like they do now)
@marktrufitt7911
9 ай бұрын
Great presentation Bret. I want to know why wouldn’t you wear a helmet? I’ve been riding over 55 years and had horrendous accidents when I was a mad teenager, but I always spent my hard earned money on good gear, helmet, boots gloves and leathers. I believe I probably would have suffered serious injuries if I had not chosen to protect myself. The gear now, especially helmets, is far superior and have much better safety standards as well as fit (once size does not fit all). I always say ‘you can replace your bike and gear but not your head’. Unlike many others, I will always wear the best fitting and comfortable helmet I can find. Thanks again for the fantastic video, keep up the good work.
@abhayvadhavkar2231
9 ай бұрын
My motto is "Five Alive"! Helmet, padded jacket, gloves, pants, and boots, or my bike and I don't leave my driveway. Oh, and add hearing protection to that! Great presentation! Thank you.
@Ozark221
9 ай бұрын
Correlation does not imply causation. Love it. Someone decides it's a good idea to not wear a helmet. What 'good' decisions did they make afterward that caused their head to hit something?
@NickBiswell
9 ай бұрын
Those curved visors actually distort your vision, that is the first thing i notice when trying on a full-face helmet, distorted vision can affect your ability to correctly determine hazards.
@guidooverath474
9 ай бұрын
Hi Bret, greetings from Germany. I'm watching nearly all of you videos at the chanel. Great stuff from an real expert. Well explained all the Myths. But - The older the Helmet get, the more Plasticiser get lost and the Helmet getting more and more like glas (Brittle) especially if the helmet is exposed to the sun for a long time. So far so good. In regard to "Replace the Helmet if it droped ..." It is a bit more complex. If the Helmet maybe droped in the Gravel (sharp edged stones) maybe the outer shell get damage with Hairline fracture or getting sharp edges that causes Notch effect which can severyly weaken the structure/shell. In this case, I would recommend to replace the helmet. Sure one can check the Helmet after it droped by x-ray but buying a new Helmet is cheaper. At the end - everyone has to decide for themselves what they want to put their head through. The best option is if one never need the Helmet.. 🙂 Thank you very much for all your content. Stay healthy, ride well
@xshavi
9 ай бұрын
Bret, we definitely want a rant video, please!! I really want enjoy how objective you are on your videos, but considering your vast experience, I would love to listen to your personal bias and opinions!
@BretTkacs
9 ай бұрын
Coming soon!
@RickGreen_McNutt
9 ай бұрын
One note - You've stated that a $150 helmet with the Snell certification has the same level of protection as an $800 helmet with the Snell certification. I'd change that to say that they both meet the minimum test requirements of Snell. The $800 helmet could far exceed the Snell testing requirements, and the $150 helmet could just barely pass. I'd say they both have "at a minimum" the safety that the Snell certification affords. The opposite could be true as well - the $150 Snell certified helmet could be far safer than the $800 Snell certified helmet.
@goldwinger5434
9 ай бұрын
Back in the 80s, I was working on establishing helmet standards for my car club. I had some long chats with the President of Bell Helmets (I've forgotten his name). I brought up this idea of helmets having a five year life. He told me that they had recalled all of the LAPD's motorcycle helmets for testing. If memory serves, most were ten to twenty years old and more than 90% still passed their original certification tests. I'm also a little skeptical about that bit about your helmet "growing" with time. I still have the Bell Mag 5 (I think that's its name) that I bought in 1985 and it is still absurdly snug.
@jimwells4240
9 ай бұрын
Many, many moons ago, I had a wreck on my brand-new Yamaha Twin Jet 100. The accident catapulted me over the handlebars, and i landed square on my forehead. Luckily, my Bell Magnum was up to the task....I didn't even get a headache. About a week later, I was cleaning some gunk off the helmet when I founds a small crack in the shell. Being a curious sort, I decided to sand the finish off the helmet to better visualize the crack. To my great surpise, the crack exteded for over four inches. I bought a new helmet the next day.
@UTADV
8 ай бұрын
Powerful demonstration on dropping helmets.
@CosmicSeeker69
8 ай бұрын
BTW - For anyone interested in what this dude screamed about the safety rating vs price is the same with motor oils. I used to be in the Porsche club GB and one of our area chairmen was a retired guy from the oil industry. Exactly the same if an oil is rated to s specification the price (and more importantly the level of advertising) makes no difference. Needless to say he ran his Porsches on no name but high spec oils. Same with my friend that operates a German car specialists...no name but high spec- if it's a standard, then it's a standard.
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