Why Are Motorcycle Helmets So Expensive? 6 Reasons

Motorcycle helmets are a necessary safety gear for anyone who rides a motorcycle. They protect your head in the event of an accident and can save your life. However, they can be expensive, and many people wonder why they cost so much.

But just because motorcycle helmets are pricey doesn’t mean you should skimp on safety and buy a cheap, low-quality helmet. In fact, purchasing a subpar helmet could end up costing you more in the long run. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the reasons why motorcycle helmets are so expensive.

Why Are Motorcycle Helmets So Expensive?

You’ve finally decided to take the plunge and buy your first motorcycle. You’re excited to get out on the open road and feel the wind in your hair. But before you can hit the pavement, there’s one more thing you need to do: buy a helmet.

A lot of factors go into the cost of a helmet. From the materials used to manufacture it, to the safety features it includes, to the brand name and overall design, there are many reasons why motorcycle helmets can be expensive.

As you begin shopping for a motorcycle helmet, you quickly realize that they are not cheap. In fact, some of the nicer helmets can cost well over $200. So why are motorcycle helmets so expensive?

Certification

One factor that drives up the cost of motorcycle helmets is certification. To be sold in the United States, a helmet must meet certain safety standards set by the Department of Transportation (DOT). These standards are rigorous and require extensive testing. As a result, manufacturers have to spend a lot of money on R&D (Research and Development) to certify their helmets.

Some brands go the extra mile to get additional certifications, such as ECE and SNELL. These certifications are not mandatory in the United States, but they can give consumers peace of mind that a helmet meets a higher safety standard. However, they also influence the cost of a helmet.

Therefore, the more certifications a helmet brand has, the more expensive that helmet is likely to be.

Shell Size

Motorcycle helmets typically come in various sizes ranging from XS to XXL. However, this doesn’t mean that every brand produces each size. Most brands only produce helmets in a limited number of sizes, mostly three to five shell sizes, hence keeping the cost of production significantly low.

However, high-end brands produce more shell sizes to give their customers a wide selection of products and charge a premium for their helmets.

Research and Development

R&D also plays a significant role in the cost of a motorcycle helmet.

Brands that invest more money in R&D typically have higher-priced helmets because they can incorporate the latest technologies and features into their products.

In addition, these brands often have better safety ratings due to their rigorous testing procedures.

Branding and Marketing

Branding and marketing also play a role in the cost of motorcycle helmets. Some brands spend more money on marketing than others, which ultimately affects the price of their products.

Additionally, some brands are more prestigious than others, which drives up their helmets’ cost. For instance, you can have two similar helmets with a massive price difference because one is a brand name and the other is not.

Materials and Manufacturing

The materials used in motorcycle helmets also affect the overall cost. More expensive materials tend to be lighter, stronger, and more durable than cheaper alternatives.

Additionally, the manufacturing process is often more complicated for more expensive helmets, which drives up the cost.

Type of Fasteners Used

The type of fasteners used in a motorcycle helmet also affects the price. More expensive helmets typically use more secure and durable fasteners, such as metal snaps instead of plastic ones.

Source: BN

Are Expensive Motorcycle Helmets Worth It?

So, should you shell out the extra cash for an expensive motorcycle helmet? The answer depends on a few factors, such as how often you ride, the type of riding you do, and your budget.

But in general, more expensive helmets are typically made with better materials and construction techniques, which means they offer more protection in the event of a crash. They may also include features like built-in sun visors, Bluetooth communications systems, and ventilation systems that help keep your head cool on long rides.

So if you’re looking for the best possible protection for your head, an expensive motorcycle helmet may be worth the investment. Just make sure to do your research first and find a helmet that fits your needs.

Also, don’t let price be your primary determinant of a quality helmet. While most expensive helmets are of excellent quality, some less costly helmets offer just as much protection because the price difference is sometimes only based on brand differences. Therefore, research to find the best helmet for you, regardless of price.

How Much Should You Spend On a Helmet?

The bottom line is that you should never skimp on safety. A good, safe motorcycle helmet will likely cost more than a cheap one, but it’s worth it. But, how much should you spend on a helmet? That depends on your budget and what type of rider you are.

We recommend spending at least $250 on a quality helmet if you’re just starting out. At this price point, you’re mostly paying for safety. Anything above this price is more about comfort, features, and aesthetics.

On the other hand, if you’re a more experienced rider, you may want to consider spending more on a helmet. The best helmets can cost up to $800 or more. But remember that the most expensive helmet is not always the best one for you. So, research and find the perfect helmet for your needs.

Source: Motorcycle Brave

Final Thoughts

There you have it; a breakdown of why motorcycle helmets are so expensive. As you can see, several factors come into play, including safety and comfort. So, before you buy a helmet, be sure to consider all of these factors.

And remember, just because a motorcycle helmet has a hefty price tag doesn’t mean it’s automatically worth your money. Research and find the best one for your needs and budget.