Are Motorcycle Helmet Sizes Universal? -(No..! Here’s Chart)
According to CDC.Gov, a motorcycle helmet reduces the risk of major head injury by 69%. A good quality helmet is 37% (for the rider) and 41% (for passengers) effective in preventing death.
If you buy a new motorcycle helmet, the correct size is important for maximum protection and comfort. A smaller helmet will make you uncomfortable, while a larger helmet will not provide maximum protection against any impact.
Are motorcycle helmet sizes universal? No, motorcycle helmet sizes are not universal because the head shape differs from person to person. Helmets are available in a wide range of sizes that riders can choose according to their head size. Most helmet manufacturers provide size charts to choose the correct size.
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How Do I Know My Motorcycle Helmet Size?
A motorcycle helmet can have the latest safety features, but nothing is effective if you choose an incorrect size. Different helmet brands provide helmet size chart guides; you can measure your head circumference and match it with the chart.
Here’s how to find the correct helmet size for your head:
- Wrap a measuring tape around your head circumference roughly one inch above the eyebrow. (refer to the above image)
- Take the head circumference measurement in centimeters and inches because different brands use different units.
- Match the measurement with the helmet size chart and choose the correct helmet size for your head.
Motorcycle Helmet Size Chart Guide
Please measure your head circumference with a measuring tape with the helmet size chart below. Most of the popular motorcycle helmet brands use similar sizes; however, matching the brand’s size chart is recommended.
| Adult Size | Centimeter | Inches | Hat Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| XX-Small | 51-52 | 20 – 20.5 | 6 3/8 – 6 1/2 |
| X-Small | 53-54 | 20.87 – 21.26 | 6 5/8 – 6 3/4 |
| Small | 55-56 | 21.65 – 22.05 | 6 7/8 – 7 |
| Medium | 57-58 | 22.44 -22.83 | 7 1/8 – 7 1/4 |
| Large | 59-60 | 23.23 – 23.62 | 7 3/8 – 7 1/2 |
| X-Large | 61-62 | 24.02 – 24.41 | 7 5/8 – 7 3/4 |
| 2X-Large | 63-64 | 24.80 – 25.20 | 7 7/8 – 8 |
| 3X-Large | 65-66 | 25.60 – 26.00 | 8 1/8 – 8 1/4 |
| 4X-Large | 67-68 | 26.40 – 26.80 | 8 3/8 – 8 1/2 |
| 5X-Large | 69-70 | 27 – 27.50 | 8 5/8 – 8 3/4 |
What Happens If Your Helmet Is Too Big?
An oversized motorcycle will not provide maximum protection in a crash. If your helmet size is too big, there will always be a chance it will slide off from the head in a road crash. Also, a bigger helmet covers more surface area and puts extra pressure on your neckbone due to air drag while driving at a higher speed.
It’s recommended to go for a motorcycle helmet with an aerodynamic design. It will reduce the air drag at high-speed racing and keeps your neckbone from unnecessary pressure.
Is It Good To Wear A Tight Helmet?
No, wearing a too-big or too-small helmet while riding a motorcycle is not good. Wearing a too-tight motorcycle helmet will put contestant pressure on your head, ear, and hair. As a result, you may feel uncomfortable, have headaches, and hair fall. So, it’s better to measure your head size and pick the right helmet size from the size chart.
Also Read: Do Motorcycle Helmets Expire?
Conclusion
The size of a motorcycle helmet is an important factor to consider when buying a new helmet for you. A too-small helmet will make you uncomfortable on longer rides, and you might notice headaches and hair fall. Similarly, a too-big helmet will increase the chances of sliding off the head in a road crash. So, always buy the correct size helmet for maximum protection.
