Helmets are more than just bike accessories, they are essential safety gear for every rider and pillion. Wearing a helmet reduces the risks of head injuries during an accident, and the face guard protects the rider against flying dust and insects. A common question on the minds of many riders is how to carry helmet on motorcycle. This blog will explore the challenges riders face in carrying helmets and provide practical solutions to overcome these issues.
Why Do Riders Need Helmets?
The primary purpose of a helmet is to protect the rider’s head in the event of an accident. The human skull is tough, but its not strong enough to withstand the forces generated during a high impact collision. That’s why helmets are mandatory for riders and pillions as a safety precaution.
The helmet works by absorbing impact energy with a tough outer shell made from fibreglass, polycarbonate or carbon fibre. Inside the helmet is a soft layer of foam which reduces the force transmitted to the head.
The interior is also lined with soft, comfortable padding that enhances fit and keeps the rider cosy on a long ride. A chin strap prevents the helmet from coming off during a crash and ensure a secure fit.
In addition to providing safety, helmets also shield the rider from environmental factors such as wind, rain, dust and flying insects. The helmet visor improves visibility by reducing glare and keeps the eyes safe from debris.
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How to Carry a Helmet on a Motorcycle?
You may be wondering how to carry your motorcycle helmet when the bike is parked. The most obvious solution is to use a helmet holder accessory which offers a convenient way to secure helmets.
Helmet Holder
Helmet holder come in various types designed to suit different motorcycles and rider preferences. The most common type is a helmet holder that attaches to the bike frame or the pillion sissy bar, but some riders use a cable lock that loops around the helmet’s chin strap and then hooks onto the handlebars.
Helmet holders that attach to the bike frame have a dedicated mounting bracket which reduces the risk of the helmet falling off. They also come with a lock to prevent the helmet from being stolen while the rider is away.
With a helmet holder, the rider doesn’t have to carry the helmet around by hand and get possibly get scratched or damaged.
Panniers or Saddle Bags
Motorcycle cargo carriers such as panniers and saddle bags offer a convenient storage option for helmets when not in use. They stay safe and remain in optimal condition protected from the environment.
Look for a snug fit without forcing the helmet into the side bags. Pressure on the shell or visor could damage or scratch it. You can also use a soft cloth to wrap around the helmet before placing it in cargo. This way the helmet’s surface will retain its integrity.
Panniers and saddlebags offer plenty of convenient space not just for helmets, but also for gloves and other riding accessories such as googles. They offer security with built in locks and protect the helmet from rain, dust and other environmental elements.
Just make sure that weight is distributed evenly and that you don’t stuff one side with too many things.
Backpacks and Helmet Carry Bag
A specialised helmet backpack offers a practical and secure solution. They offer the rider a hand-free way to carry the helmet, making it perfect for short trips and commuting. Helmet backpacks have added padding and secure straps to keep the helmet in place. The back pack will usually have additional space for personal items such as wallets, phones, keys, etc. Its great to organise your rides.
Adjustable straps suit different helmet sizes and types, ensuring a snug and stable fit that will not distract the rider. Carry bags are light, compact and ideal for holding an extra helmet on the move.
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Preserving Your Helmet’s Performance
Storing your helmet on your motorcycle exposes it to weather elements and can reduce its life and performance. Take care of this vital accessory with regular maintenance and proper storage to keep it in top conditions. Refer to the following essential tips.
Cleaning
Use mild soap and water to remove dirt, insects, grime and debris from the helmet. Avoid harsh chemicals as this may damage the helmet’s shell or visor.
Visor Care
Clean with a soft microfibre cloth to avoid scratches and to keep visibility clear.
Interior Care
The inner lining of the helmet can be removed and washed separately by hand. Ensure that the material is completely dry before reassembly.
Drying
Allow the helmet to air out naturally to prevent the growth of mould and fungus. Avoid using a hair dryer or heater which could melt plastic fasteners or damage the exterior finish.
Safe Storage
If the helmet is not stored on a helmet holder, saddle bag or backpack, keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Secure the straps and locks so that the helmet doesn’t accidently fall off the bike while parked.
Replace if Required
Helmets have a lifespan of a few years before they need to be checked for optimum safety and protection. If your helmet has visible cracks or has been in accident as it may not be able to effectively protect from injuries once its integrity has been compromised.
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Best Practices: How to Secure Helmet on Motorcycle
A secure placement of the helmet on your motorcycle is essential for both safety and riding comfort. Follow these best practices for a hassle-free ride.
The helmet holder is ideal for secure storage of your helmet. It is not likely to fall off or get stolen due to heavy duty brackets and motorcycle specific design that attaches to the frame.
Placing the helmet on handlebars may seem convenient, but it can lead to safety issues. The inner lining of the helmet is soft and delicate and could easily be damaged by the wing mirror or handlebars. If you are riding with the helmet on the handlebars, you can compromise handling, balance and manoeuvrability. Avoid this practice to have a safe journey.
The helmet should not obstruct your view or bike controls. Never place it on the gas tank or windscreen as this can hinder visibility and may interfere with braking and throttle.
If you are parking your bike in an unfamiliar spot, use a lock to secure your helmet to the motorcycle. A saddle bag is ideal because it keeps the helmet out of view, reducing the likelihood of a thief trying to steal it. Choose a shaded spot where direct sunlight and extreme temperatures cannot degrade helmet materials and compromise its protective efficiency.
Ensure that the visor is protected from scratches or damage from wind or debris. Before leaving your helmet on the bike, recheck the strap to ensure it is securely fastened. If the helmet falls, it may need to be replaced as any impact could render its protective features void.
By taking these precautions, you can ensure the best safety, long life and performance of your helmet. Taking these few extra steps to carry your helmet properly will pay off in the long run, allowing you to enjoy every ride with confidence and peace of mind.
Conclusion
From using dedicated helmet holders to luggage carriers and backpacks, there are several practical solutions if you need to ask how do you put a helmet on a motorcycle? The significance of carrying a helmet properly on a bike lies in factors of safety and protection for your accessories, while also preventing theft and unexpected events.
We hope you enjoyed this blog on easy ways to store your helmet on a bike. You should check out more interesting articles on the Carorbis Blog, where you can find the latest automotive news, how-to guides and everything a car and bike enthusiast can wish for.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How To Carry Helmet On Motorcycle?
Ans. If you are not wearing your helmet, you can get a bike accessory to attach your helmet to the motorcycle frame. They come with locks for added security. Attach the helmet to the holder via the cable lock. If your bike has pannier or saddle bags, you can safely store the helmet in these compartments. Avoid placing the helmet on the bike handle bars as it may get damaged while riding. You can even attach the helmet to the pillion grab rail so that it won’t obstruct your view or the bike’s controls.
Q2. How To Carry A Passenger Helmet On A Motorcycle?
Ans. The pillion helmet should be stowed away on the grab rail with a dedicated passenger helmet lock. Ensure that it is firmly attached to reduce the chances of the helmet falling off while riding. There are bike storage bags that form convenient compartments to hold the passenger’s helmet securely. Helmets for the pillion and rider are mandatory in India so remember to ask your pillion to wear their helmet before you ride.
Q3. How To Carry Extra Helmet On Motorcycle?
Ans. When carrying a spare helmet on your motorcycle, consider a helmet backpack or a specially designed helmet carrying bag that attaches to the rear seat or saddle bags.
Q4. How To Carry Spare Helmet On Harley?
Ans. You have to buy a helmet holder accessory for your Harley Davidson motorcycle to carry a spare helmet. The holder can be installed on the passenger grabrail or secured to a cargo bag at the rear of the motorcycle.
Q5. How To Attach Motorcycle Helmet To Backpack?
Ans. Helmets can be attached to backpacks using straps or clips to secure it in place. You can even use the helmet chinstrap to fasten it to the backpack, however, ensure that it is firmly attached to prevent it from swinging around, falling off or distracting you while you ride.
Q6. Where do you put your helmet when riding a motorcycle?
Ans. Typically you should wear the helmet while riding a motorcycle. If you have a spare helmet you need to carry, place it on the bike’s helmet lock or attach it to the motorcycle frame at an appropriate place. The best place to store a spare helmet is in a saddle bag or backpack as it stays out of the way while riding. Avoid placing the helmet on handlebars as it may damage the inner lining or fall off while riding.
Q7. How do you travel with a helmet?
Ans. Its best to store the helmet in a dedicated helmet bag or backpack. A helmet holder is also useful to keep the helmet in place while riding.
Q8. How do you keep two helmets on a bike?
Ans. You can carry two helmets using a dual helmet holder or a large carrying case that forms the cargo storage on your motorcycle. Make sure the storage or holder can accommodate two helmets without damaging them.
Q9. What is the rule of second helmet?
Ans. It is mandatory in India for the pillion rider to wear a helmet on a motorcycle. That is why it is important to carry a spare helmet if you are riding with a passenger. Having a second helmet ensures both rider and passenger are safe and comply with road regulations.
Q10. Why do bikers wear half helmets?
Ans. Half helmets provide less coverage and allow for better ventilation while riding. This can be beneficial in hot and humid climates where the rider may sweat or get a suffocated feeling in heavy traffic. However, half helmets provide less protection compared to full face helmets because they do not cover the chin area. Riders should choose their helmet style based on safety needs and local regulations.
