was re [CR]Skid Lids, now helmet ventilation.

(Example: Racing:Jacques Boyer)

Date: Fri, 27 May 2005 21:29:14 -0400
From: "HM & SS Sachs" <sachs@erols.com>
To: rononice@yahoo.com, classicrendezvous@bikelist.org
Subject: was re [CR]Skid Lids, now helmet ventilation.


Ron Gurth wrote:

"I just wish there were modern helmets that did not try so hard to look like space craft. The Bell Metro looks pretty good, but I have reservations about its ventilation." ++++++++++++ This is perhaps not fair, coming from one who has been liberated of almost all follicles on the upper regions of the cranium, but it will make sense, I think:

Ventilation of the head is pretty important, no doubt. I get good ventilation with almost any helmet, because I don't have anything up there to impede air flow. If you are having ventilation issues, there are a couple of options that will help, after choosing a helmet with some potential. First, don't wear a hat under the helmet. The hat is an elegant way to put a wind-stopper over your blanket of hair, and insure that you get hot. Second, think about a short hair cut. I realize that could be traumatic (our 29 year old son has never seen my chin, and I'm not about to shave the beard now), but it is an option. From where I am (and there is not parting there), almost any decent helmet w/o a hat under it will ventilate better than no helmet but wearing a hat that blocks air movement.

BTW, and this is serious vintage content, even when I try to wear classic bike clothes, when it is time to ride the bike I wear a modern helmet. The heck with the appearance, there are still too many drivers out there who are alcohol fueled or just don't pay attention. Hair nets are for displays.

BTW, I've been using a Bell Metro for over a year, at Larry Black's suggestion, and have few complaints. But, the visor with slits to let in the low sun is stupid, and sat too high. The easy-adjust headband is nice, since it lets me ride with an earband or balaclava on cold mornings, but come home with less padding on the way home. Bell doesn't approve of that, anyhow.

thanks harvey "no more preaching from me - on this topic" sachs mcLean va