What is an approved helmet and how can you tell if a motorcycle helmet is approved?

Understanding the Different Standards for Motorcycle Helmets: Motorcycle helmets are an important part of riding a motorcycle, not only because they are required by law in most countries, but also because they offer protection against serious injury. To ensure helmets meet safety requirements, helmet manufacturers must comply with certain standards and regulations. In this blog post, we will examine the different standards and regulations applied to motorcycle helmets around the world.

Motorcycle heated grips

Criteria for Motorcycle Helmets
The criteria applicable to motorcycle helmets depend on the country in which the helmet is sold. Generally speaking, there are two main types of requirements: weight and size requirements, and the safety features required for certification. Weight and size requirements vary depending on the type of helmet manufactured (full-face, open-face, modular) and its intended use (on-road or off-road). Safety features include elements such as locking systems, ventilation systems, fastening systems, visors, and padding. Finding a motorcycle helmet for a child is very different from finding one for an adult. Most of the time, a child’s motorcycle helmet will be smaller, lighter, and have less ventilation. Furthermore, it is important to find a helmet that fits your child properly to ensure their safety on the road. To determine the correct size for your child’s head, refer to European Union standards.

In Europe, all motorcycle helmets must meet the European Union (EU) ECE 22-04 or ECE 22-05 standards. These standards include specific requirements regarding weight and size, as well as safety features such as a sewn-in label bearing a homologation number. Furthermore, all approved helmets must be tested to provide impact protection up to 145 km/h (90 mph) in accordance with NF 73.305 regulations.

American DOT and SNELL certifications are not recognized in Europe. Motorcycle helmets manufactured according to American DOT or SNELL certifications are not recognized as valid in Europe. This means that if you wear a non-approved helmet while riding your motorcycle in Europe, you could receive a fine or even lose points on your license, depending on the country. It is therefore important to ensure that any helmet you purchase meets European standards before wearing it on European roads.

It is important for every motorcyclist to understand the different standards applicable to motorcycle helmets worldwide so they can ensure their helmet complies with local regulations before riding. In Europe specifically, all approved helmets must meet ECE 22-04 or ECE 22-05 standards as defined by the European Union (EU). These standards include specific weight and size requirements, as well as other safety features such as a sewn-in label with an approval number and impact testing up to 145 km/h (90 mph) in accordance with NF 73.305 regulations. Wearing a DOT- or SNELL-approved American helmet while riding your motorcycle in Europe can result in fines or even penalty points on your license, so make sure your face shield is compliant before riding in Europe!

Can you carry a child on a motorcycle?

• Children under 5 years old must be seated in a seat equipped with a restraint system and footrests when riding a motorcycle.
• The child must wear a CE-certified helmet and gloves.
• The driver must ensure that the child’s feet are not caught in any moving parts of the vehicle.
• It is recommended to use a child seat even after the age of 5 if the child cannot place their feet on the footrests or hold onto the handlebars.
• Check the vehicle’s certificate of conformity for seats intended for passengers over 14 years old.