When it comes to riding a motorcycle on Australian roads, safety should be every rider’s top priority. One of the most essential pieces of gear that you should wear is a helmet. Not only does it protect your head in the event of an accident, but it can also provide protection from wind, rain, and debris while riding.
Now, if you have got yourself a Harley-Davidson bike, then you know that wearing the right helmet is a must. But how do you pick the perfect helmet for your bike?
That would be the purpose of this article. Here, we will guide you in choosing the right Harley Davidson helmets for sale for your needs, discussing the key features to consider and highlighting some of the top helmets available for sale.
Understanding the Motorcycle Helmet Standards in Australia
Before we dive into the details of finding the right helmet for you, let us take a look at some of the basic regulations in Australia regarding motorcycle helmets. In all states and territories, it is illegal to ride a motorbike without an approved helmet. Your helmet must meet certain standards as set out by state and federal governments, and it must be properly fitted to your head shape for maximum safety and protection.
It is also important to remember that wearing a damaged or altered helmet can result in significant fines or other penalties if you are pulled over by police.
Here are the approved standards for motorcycle helmets in the country.
Australian Standard (AS) 1698:1988
This standard was prepared by Committee CS/76 and approved by the Council of Standards Australia to set a minimum level of safety for helmets designed to be worn while riding motorcycles. It specified a performance test for helmets, which included impact protection and abrasion resistance tests.
Australian Standard /New Zealand Standard (AS/NZS) 1698: 2006
The AS/NZS 1698: 2006 standard was developed to bring the Australian standards for helmets up to date and in line with international standards. It includes additional requirements, such as testing for noise levels, impact energy management tests, flame resistance tests, and ventilation effectiveness tests.
United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UN ECE) 22.05
This standard defines some specifications that helmet manufacturers should follow when designing their products. It includes tests for impact absorption, chin strap strength tests, surface penetration tests, and shell integrity tests. Today, the UN ECE 22.05 is the most respected legal regulation pertaining to helmets, not only in Australia but around the world.
Apart from these three motorcycle helmet standards, there might be other regulations that apply depending on the state or territory you are in. So, before you buy Harley Davidson helmets, it is important to check the local laws and ensure that you are getting a helmet that meets the standards prescribed in your area.
What Features to Consider When Choosing Harley Davidson Motorcycle Helmets?
Shopping for Harley Davidson helmets online can be overwhelming, with so many designs and features to consider. Here is a checklist that you can use to help narrow down your options.
Safety Certifications
Standard helmets typically come with one or more safety certifications. You should make sure that your chosen helmet carries the latest certifications to ensure maximum protection from impact forces and abrasion in the event of a crash.
So, how do you know that your chosen helmet is certified for safety? Well, it should have a label sewn into it that declares the standard that it meets. You can usually find this label in the helmet’s crown liner or on the inside of its shell.
Even if a certain helmet looks very attractive, it is important to remember that looks are not everything. So, if you do not see any safety certifications on a helmet, then it is best to look for another one.
Materials and Construction
The materials and construction of your helmet will have a major impact on its performance. Most preferably, its material should be lightweight but durable enough to absorb the impact of a crash.
The best Harley Davidson motorcycle helmets are usually made from composite, carbon fibre, or fibreglass shells, reinforced with internal mesh materials, such as Kevlar. The liner should also be comfortable enough to provide cushioning during an impact, so look for one made from lightweight foam and moisture-wicking fabrics.
You should also make sure that the helmet has proper venting to keep your head cool in hot conditions.
Fit and Comfort
A helmet that does not fit properly is not only uncomfortable but also unsafe. You should make sure to measure your head and check the size chart of the specific helmet you are considering to get a good fit.
It is also important that the helmet feels comfortable when it is in place. It should be snug but not too tight, so you do not feel restricted or uncomfortable. If possible, try on different sizes and brands until you find one that fits just right.
Style and Design
When picking a helmet, it should of course also be stylish and aesthetically pleasing. Fortunately, Harley Davidson has a wide range of designs to choose from that will help you look the part while riding your motorcycle.
Think about your personal style and pick a design that best reflects who you are. There are helmets in classic, modern, vintage, and even novelty styles, so take the time to explore different designs until you find one that suits your taste.
Also, there are certain helmets that best complement the bike you have. For example, if you ride the enormous 2023 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special, then go for a full-face helmet with an aerodynamic design. On the other hand, if you have the Fat Bob, then an open-face helmet might suit you better.
Bluetooth Compatibility
Modern helmets already come with some features that make rides even more enjoyable. For example, many now offer Bluetooth compatibility, allowing you to pair your helmet with your smartphone and listen to music or make phone calls while riding.
So, during your “Harley Davidson helmets near me” online search, look for this feature if you want a more connected ride every time you hit the road.
Price Range
Finally, consider your budget when shopping for a helmet. Harley Davidson produces helmets in different price ranges, so you should be able to find one that fits your budget without compromising on safety or style.
You can find discount Harley Davidson helmets that are only around $100 or those with sophisticated designs at more than $1,000. However, remember that the price should not be your only consideration when shopping for a helmet, as safety should always come first.
Top 5 Picks for Harley Davidson Helmets
Now that you know what to look for when shopping for Harley Davidson helmets for sale, it is time to get started with your search. Here are some of the best options that you can consider for your requirements.
1. Boom! Audio N02 Full-Face Helmet
This full-face helmet will give you a superb sound experience with its state-of-the-art audio system that does not require any set-up or speaker positioning. It even has built-in FM radio and an intercom system that allows you to communicate with your fellow bikers while on the road.
With regards to the construction, this helmet has a fibreglass composite shell with a quick-release double D-ring chin strap. It also comes with forehead venting, which helps keep your head cool during hot weather.
Weighing just 1,720 grams, this helmet is lightweight and comfortable. It is also available in five sizes, from Small to Double XL, so you can easily find one that fits your head perfectly.
2. 120th Anniversary Capstone H31 Modular Helmet
Celebrating Harley-Davidson’s 120th anniversary, this helmet is a collector’s item that will surely turn heads. It comes with an integrated drop-down smoke sun shield and multiple air vents that keep your head cool no matter how hot it is outside.
This durable helmet has a polycarbonate composite shell that can withstand strong impacts. The quick-release chin strap makes it easy to put on and take off as well.
It also features Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to pair it with your smartphone or other devices for entertainment on the go. The rechargeable battery lasts long, so you can enjoy your rides without worrying about running out of power mid-trip.
3. Men’s Delton Sun Shield J04 5/8 Helmet
If you are looking for an open-face helmet, then this should be at the top of your list. It has a lightweight fibreglass shell with an integrated sun shield that helps protect you from ultraviolet (UV) rays during sunny days.
This UV-filtering shield can be quickly adjusted to your preferred position without the need for tools or other equipment. Additionally, it comes with adjustable ventilation that allows you to keep your head cool in hot weather conditions.
The comfort liner and cheek pads are removable as well, which makes cleaning easy and convenient after extended use.
4. Unisex Pilot II 2-IN-1 X04 Helmet
This two-in-one helmet can be used as either a full-face or open-face helmet, giving you more versatility. It comes with Bluetooth connectivity so that you can listen to music or take calls while riding.
The aerodynamic shell is made of lightweight thermoplastic, which is extremely durable and capable of absorbing strong impacts. The quick-release strap makes it easy for you to put on and take off the helmet without any fuss.
It also features an adjustable ventilation system that helps keep your head cool while riding in hot weather conditions.
5. Gargoyle X07 2-in-1 Helmet
Like the Pilot helmet, this one can also be worn in two ways—either as a full-face or open-face. You will have the freedom to remove the face mask to enjoy the open breeze and then put it back on when you want to go full-face again.
The fibreglass shell comes with a micro-lock buckle retention system to keep the helmet secure and in place. It also has a fog and scratch-resistant sun shield and a washable anti-microbial liner that absorbs sweat and keeps your head cool even in the hottest weather.
This helmet is also compatible with the BOOM audio Bluetooth system, allowing you to enjoy your favourite music or communicate while driving.
Wrapping Up
Wearing a helmet is not only important from a safety standpoint but also helps you look good when riding your bike. Now that you know how to pick the right Harley Davidson helmets for sale, make sure to factor all the important elements into your decision-making process when making your purchase.
And, above all else, remember that no matter which type of helmet you decide on, if it does not provide enough protection or fit correctly, it is better to choose another one rather than risk injury in an accident.
For more tips and information that you can use for your rides, check out the other posts we have on our site. Happy riding!