How to Strap a Motorcycle Helmet

A motorcycle accident can occur at any time. Protect yourself whether you are taking a quick spin around the block, going for a multistate riding adventure, or delivering a package with your bike. Let Helmet Gurus help you get a high-quality helmet for protection. Don’t forget that you must strap the helmet properly for maximum protection. 

Major Helmet Parts

To understand how to strap the helmet properly, you must also understand the major helmet parts. A typical motorcycle helmet has three parts. The outer shell absorbs impact in case of a crash to protect your head. The inner lining and padding protect your head from the hard outer shell. The chin strap and retention system secure the helmet to your head.

Concerning helmet strapping and security, the chin strap and retention system play the biggest roles. A typical chin strap features a quick-release buckle, which means you don’t have to fiddle with the buckle to release it.

The retention mechanism ensures the helmet fits snugly on your head. The design and working mechanism of the retention system varies by helmet. For example, some helmets have D-rings, others have ratchet systems, and some have micrometric buckles. You can check these systems and their reviews before buying a helmet.

Read more: Top modular motorcycle helmet review guide on helmetguruscom

Helmet Strapping Steps

The helmets whose reviews you see on Helmet Gurus have relatively similar strapping methods. Below is a general guide to follow when strapping your helmet:

• Position the helmet carefully on your head and ensure it’s comfortable. Adjust the helmet so that its top edge lies just above your eyebrows.

• Open and position the chin strap under your chin, with the straps flat against your face (untwisted). Pull and adjust the straps so they are snug but not too tight and uncomfortable. You should be able to breathe normally without any difficulties.

• Next, fasten the chin strap and ensure you engage the buckle securely. The exact steps here depend on your helmet’s type and design, as previously explained.

• Some helmets feature additional retention systems, like secondary straps, for secure strapping. If your helmet has such a mechanism, use it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Confirm that everything is snug, secure, and comfortable before riding. Otherwise, you might feel uncomfortable and be forced to stop and secure the helmet again once you stop riding. Such interruptions might be unwelcome in some situations. For example, you don’t want to stop during a race or in a storm to adjust your helmet.

Read more: Best modular motorcycle helmet review and buying guide on helmetguruscom

Factors Affecting Proper Helmet Strapping

Several factors affect how well you can strap your helmet. The first is the helmet’s fit and size. An oversized or undersized helmet, even with working straps and retention systems, won’t fit you properly. Say you have long, thick hair and want to use a helmet you sized when you shaved your head clean. The helmet might not properly strap even if you follow the above steps.

The helmet’s condition will also affect its fit. For example, all helmets undergo wear and tear. Thus, a helmet you have used for ten years might have damaged straps and adjustment systems. Such damages underscore the need to replace worn helmets or helmets you have damaged in accidents. Check out the Helmet Gurus for buying guides if you wish to replace your helmet. 

Hopefully, the above discussion taught you how to strap a helmet. You can also consider getting help from other experienced motorcyclists. For example, you can get help from a member of a local motorcycle club. Who knows, you might even get help with other motorcycle gear.