If you guys don't mind using motorcycle helmets, www.newenough.com has great deals on previous years models. I recommend Scorpion helmets for a cheap, good quality helmet. I've owned and used HJC, Shoei, Scorpion, Arai, and AGV helmets and the Scorpion has always been one of my favorite. They are comfortable, great build quality, and very cost effective.

 

Lot of great information guys.

Just wondering though, found some nice deals on the HJC CL series, but looks like they're only DOT approved, not Snell certified.

Would I have problems taking my S to the track if they say you need a Snell helmet?
Anyone ever have any issues?

 

It depends on the track group. Most track groups do a self-tech procedure, so if you only had a DOT and they required Snell, they would never know. Up to you if you wish to take that approach.

DOT vs Snell each have their own testing procedure, but the biggest difference I see between the two is DOT is based on the honor system while in order to get a Snell rating, you must submit the helmet to Snell for testing. I think with a company like HJC that has been around a while, you don't need to worry about them lying that their helmets don't pass the DOT test.

Some reading material on the subject. http://www.motorcyclistonline.com/gearbox/...view/index.html

 

Since that article, the Snell Foundation released their 2010 standards, which take into account that smaller heads weigh less. That addresses what I remember as being one of the main concerns the author of the article had with the Snell standards.

 

Gotcha. Great info guys. Thanks a ton!

Just found an Icon Alliance SS helmet for $40 on my local Craigslist. Going to check it out!

 

Was using a Pyrotect full face M2000 but just bought a Zamp FSA-2. If anyone owns one can you post the weight of the helmet?

 

I had an HJC open face motorcycle helmet for years. It just expired in 10 for autox and i was in the same boat as you last year. I looked at the Bell Mag4 and a G-force both open face. I bought them both online in the same size, the Bell was too tight, and the G-Force too loose (wide), both were noticibly heavier than my HJC. I took a chance and ordered another open face HJC the same size as the old one and it fit like a glove. I got the CL-31 RacerII. Try on a bunch and get what is most comfortable. Last thing you want is a helmet too tight or loose while autoxing, and weight was important to me. I really got used to my old lightweight HJC and th new helmets were noticibly heavier. Injection Molded Polycarbonate is lighter than Fiberglass helmet for around the same price point.