Crash Video Highlights Importance of Correct Helmet Fit

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Having a helmet is only part of the battle. Make sure it fits, too.

We’ve talked before about the importance of helmet safety many times here on H-D Forums. It’s a subject we take very seriously. However, there’s one aspect that we have, up until this point, forgotten to mention.

You’ll have to forgive us. While we harp on the importance of gear time and time again, we’ve forgotten to mention a key aspect: fit. Having proper gear is of great importance when it comes to motorcycle safety. But making sure that gear fits is paramount.

Crash Video Highlights Importance of Correct Helmet Fit

In this video, posted to Reddit’s r/motorcycles, we witness a crash occur during a track day event. In the clip, two motorcycles collide. At the moment of impact, one rider is ejected from their motorcycle. The very second their (thankfully) armored body contacts the asphalt, their helmet flies off, never to be seen again.

It’s a sobering look at what can happen in a collision when your helmet doesn’t fit properly. The good news is that the rider rolls off towards the side of the track without hitting their bare head on the concrete. It’s a miracle and we’re glad they will live to learn a lesson about fitment.

Ill-Fitting Helmet Flies Off in a Crash

So, how can you be sure that your helmet fits properly? According to helmetsafety.org, there’s an easy process for checking fitment. Whether you’re checking out your helmet at home or shopping for a new one, we recommend following those steps.

In short, make sure your helmet is snug. It might even feel like it’s a bit too tight until it’s positioned correctly. Remember that helmets are designed to fit your head only one way, so it makes sense that it won’t feel “right” until it’s settled.

Also remember that the helmet’s insert will loosen up slightly over time, so size your new helmet accordingly.

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Cam VanDerHorst has been a contributor to Internet Brands' Auto Group sites for over three years, with his byline appearing on Ford Truck Enthusiasts, Corvette Forum, JK Forum, and Harley-Davidson Forums, among others. In that time, he's also contributed to Autoweek, The Drive, and Scale Auto Magazine.

He bought his first car at age 14 -- a 1978 Ford Mustang II -- and since then he’s amassed an impressive and diverse collection of cars, trucks, and motorcycles, including a 1996 Ford Mustang SVT Mystic Cobra (#683) and a classic air-cooled Porsche 911.

In addition to writing about cars and wrenching on them in his spare time, he enjoys playing music (drums and ukulele), building model cars, and tending to his chickens.

You can follow Cam, his cars, his bikes, and his chickens at @camvanderhorst on Instagram.