So this is a common occurrence, you are looking for your next motorcycle helmet. However which do you go for? A lot of budget helmets have similar, or in some cases even better Sharp Safety rating than more expensive premium helmets. Hopefully I can answer some of your questions in this blog!
What is the Sharp Test?
The Sharp test is a series of 30 linear and 2 oblique impacts that a motorcycle helmet is subjected to and has to withstand to achieve a Sharp rating.
| Helmet | Velocity | Impact type and location on helmet | Impact surface |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 6.0 m/s | Linear impacts to Front, Left, Right, Crown and Rear | Flat anvil |
| 2 | 6.0 m/s | Linear impacts to Front, Left, Right, Crown and Rear | Kerb anvil |
| 3 | 7.5 m/s | Linear impacts to Front, Left, Right, Crown and Rear | Flat anvil |
| 4 | 7.5 m/s | Linear impacts to Front, Left, Right, Crown and Rear | Kerb anvil |
| 5 | 8.5 m/s | Linear impacts to Front, Left, Right, Crown and Rear | Flat anvil |
| 6 | 8.5 m/s | Linear impacts to Front, Left, Right, Crown and Rear | Kerb anvil |
| 7 | 8.5 m/s | Oblique impacts to the Left and Right sides | Abrasive anvil |
The linear impacts will try to recreate the surfaces that could be impacted in real world incidents. The oblique impact with try to replicate conditions that might cause rotational acceleration injuries.
Are more expensive helmets safer?
According to the Sharp scores, this is not always the case. There are quite a few budget helmets which have similar ratings to more premium brands like Shoei and Arai. This is because quite often plastic helmets, although weaker than composite helmets are pretty good at absorbing energy in an impact. However looking at the other side of the argument, I have dropped both plastic and composite helmets from a height and noticed plastic helmets tend to bounce more. This means in a real world impact, although the brain might come off well, your neck might not. In addition to this brands like Arai put a lot of development into the shape of a helmet to neutralise forces on the neck, this isn't replicated in the Sharp test.
Mixed results from the Sharp test, why should I spend more?
Although safety is key when choosing a motorcycle helmet, it shouldn't be all you look at. Think about what you will use the helmet for, if you spend a lot of time touring, more expensive helmets such as the Shoei GT Air will provide more comfort and much greater sound insulation which you might be grateful for over long journeys. If sports or track riding is what you're after then helmets like the Arai RX-7V will provide better ventilation and stability at higher speeds. Other factors to take into account is higher end helmets will also come with more features, for example anti fog pinlock inserts, sun visors, and fully removable and washable interior padding. All these features will drive the price of a helmet up!
Verdict
Overall in terms of safety, the Sharp test proves that some cheaper helmets can withstand the same sort of impacts as more expensive helmets, however in the real world when its not the case of a static impact test, the composite helmets will always perform better. Ultimately its down to how much budget you have available to spend on a helmet, not everyone has £700 to get a flagship helmet. However always look to get the best you can afford. If you need any advice please contact Bike Stop on +44 (0)1438 317038 or visit the shop. The team are always happy to help!
