What do you guys think of Shark helmets?

[Burt Munro]

Link to some info on the LRRS ban of certain HJC models......

http://www.roadracingworld.com/news/article/?article=25781

[weil136]

The Shark is an ECE helmet which is a standard used in Europe, the biggest problem with the ECE is they tell you were to strike the helmet in the test and they do not require puncture testing.

I don't know about other helmet companies, but I do know that with Arai the top riders wear the exact same helmets that they sell to the public.  In fact Nakano's helmet that he carshed in at around 200 mph at Misano was traveling around to some of the shows with Arai, so you can see for yourself.

[PolishPete]

Good information guys/gals.  Thanks.  How does the ECE compare to DOT/SNELL?  Sounds like Arai is the way to go.  I need to replace my helmet this spring...any suggestions?  I'm liking the style of the Shark, but I love my Arai too.  Like someone said, not sure if I should change just for the sake of changing.

[tug296]

I like the HJC AC-12 for the fit.
My brother bought a Shark, he really likes it, lightweight, comfort, quick and easy shield change, $50 shield though.
I think the ECE does more extensive testing than Snell.

[weil136]

The ECE and SNELL do some of the same testing but just in a different way.  The ECE tells the manufacture where to strike the helmet ( 5 Specific Points) so the manufacture can build a helmet up in those points to pass the test.  SNELL has a line drawn on the helmet and you can test it anywhere inside that area (bascially the area of a three-quarter with a chinbar deflection test).  SNELL has a puncture test and the ECE doesn't (2KG weight dropped anywhere on the helmet form a 2 m distance).  The ECE meausures the G ratings differnent then SNELL not better are worse just different. The ECE uses different weight headforms for different size heads, SNELL uses the same weight for all head forms (which for 2010 will change.  Someone here mentioned Batch testing, which is something the ECE does, (the manufacture must send a batch of helmets for testing when request by ECE) SNELL does something different they actually go to dealerships and buy the helmets off the rack and then tests them randomly.  There is a big debate ongoing about which is better, neither are perfect.  Just remeber you get what you pay for!

[gixxerlvr]

I wera a shark and it is awesome, quiet and comfy.

[jgalt187]

I have an RSR2, and  I love it!

[LMsports]

Buy one of the five helmet companies that do all of their own research, development, and manufacturing in-house, not in China or Korea with cheap labor and cheaper materials. Quality safety gear isn't about price, buy the best you can afford. The five manufacturers that can offer the high level of quality control you can count on are:
Arai
Shoei
Suomy
Shark
AGV

Schuberth also makes a kick ass quality helmet but not really condusive to road racing.

[PolishPete]

Thanks guys.  Great info.