Autocross Helmets

J312 · 03-31-2009, 03:35 PM

I am looking at helmets for solo autocross events, and there seem to be quite a few ratings. Are they any helmets/ratings that are pretty universal (ie can be used in most events)? I am looking to spend between $100-200 if anyone has recommendations.

nordique14 · 03-31-2009, 04:01 PM

most organizations require Snell certified helmets. Right now we allow SA2000 and SA2005. Next year we will no longer accept S2000 as the new SA2010 standards will be out. So do not pick up a used SA2000 as it will be obsolete real soon. For autox most orgs also allow M (motorcycle) helmets but not all do.

You can also get open face or closed face. If you also want to do track, spring for the close face. For autox, open face will be fine and also cheaper.

lib · 03-31-2009, 04:35 PM

^ +1

In general:
- New ratings come out every 5 years. '95, '00, '05, '10, etc.
- Virtually anything you will attend will accept the two most recent specs. Currently '00 & '05. Starting next year that will move to '05 & '10.
- SA ratings add rollbar multi-impact & fire protection that is not required for M ratings. Due to this, some tracks require SA ratings though you can usually skirt by on M ratings if you're just doing autocross.

If you can, spring for an SA2005 - it will work anywhere. If you insist on doing it on the cheap then M2005 will have to do.
Avoid M2000 & SA2000 at this point because they will be phased out next year.

Citizen Z · 03-31-2009, 04:41 PM

And what is a decent place to purchase? From what I've seen in a quick google search, there are plenty of sites that sell helmets but I don't know much about any of them.

nordique14 · 03-31-2009, 04:58 PM

You really need to try on helmets. Buying by size is tough as everyone has a different head shape and different pressure points. If you have a good motorsports shop in the area that would be the best. There is usually one or two near a track if you have a race track near by. You can also try a good motorcycle shop. Quite a few of the helmets they have there will be SA approved.

BerkTechnology · 03-31-2009, 08:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by nordique14

You really need to try on helmets. Buying by size is tough as everyone has a different head shape and different pressure points. If you have a good motorsports shop in the area that would be the best. There is usually one or two near a track if you have a race track near by. You can also try a good motorcycle shop. Quite a few of the helmets they have there will be SA approved.

+1

Try on the helmet first.

There are a number of lower cost SA approved helmets on the market now. The SA helmets will cost a bit more than an M rated helmet but it's not worth getting booted from an event because your helment isn't the proper type. Just spend the extra $50 now so you don't have to worry about it later.

J312 · 04-01-2009, 12:40 PM

Thanks everyone!

Templedogg · 04-01-2009, 01:54 PM

You will not find a better SA2005 helmet for the money period. Myself and several of my friends all have these for autocross and track days. Great helmet. Pyrotechs are made by Bell as well. http://www.helmetcity.com/page/HC/PR...ace/openfacesa

Feffman · 04-03-2009, 06:46 AM

The good people at Simpson Racing (www.TeamSimpson.com) can help with all your helmet needs. I'd suggest at least an SA2005 rated helmet as it should be good for 10 years.

Feff

Citizen Z · 04-03-2009, 07:20 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Templedogg

You will not find a better SA2005 helmet for the money period. Myself and several of my friends all have these for autocross and track days. Great helmet. Pyrotechs are made by Bell as well. http://www.helmetcity.com/page/HC/PR...ace/openfacesa

Don't some tracks require full face helmets? For only another $50 or so you not bad off getting the additional protection to yer grill.

aarong_m3 · 04-06-2009, 04:38 PM

I bought this one: http://www.pyrotect.com/product.php?...&cat=14&page=1

Quote:

Originally Posted by J312

I am looking at helmets for solo autocross events, and there seem to be quite a few ratings. Are they any helmets/ratings that are pretty universal (ie can be used in most events)? I am looking to spend between $100-200 if anyone has recommendations.

andrew9223 · 04-06-2009, 04:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BerkTechnology

+1

Try on the helmet first.

There are a number of lower cost SA approved helmets on the market now. The SA helmets will cost a bit more than an M rated helmet but it's not worth getting booted from an event because your helment isn't the proper type. Just spend the extra $50 now so you don't have to worry about it later.

I'm pretty sure M rated is fine also as long as its snell rated it doesnt have to be SA check your rulebook. I've been out a couple years.

BimmerMeUp · 04-14-2009, 10:29 PM

I started out using a $300+ Bell full face, but when it expired, replaced it with a $60 no-name M2005 helmet from a local discount motorcycle shop. For the few minutes I need it to do an autocross run, the cheap helmet is fine. Same helmet our club uses for loaners.

ssabripo · 04-15-2009, 07:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by aarong_m3

I bought this one: http://www.pyrotect.com/product.php?...&cat=14&page=1

winrar!!!

kwanzto · 05-10-2009, 11:13 PM

All good advice so far, here is my 2 cents. I mostly autocross, so I use an open face helmet. I highly recommend an open face helmet for autocross; they are comfortable, keep you cool, and have great visibility. I have been using a G-Force (model 750 I believe, but I don't think they manufacture that one anymore). It was roughly $160 bucks and has been absolutely GREAT. You jut can't beat that deal. But I will warn you, if you order online, make sure the place you are ordering from has a good return policy; you will most likely not find the perfect fit on your first try. If you have a fitted baseball cap that is comfortable, match that up on the sizing chart, that's a great place to start. I will say this though, because I've been struggling with this problem recently... it seems to me that G Force has changed the materials or the method of constructing the padding inside the helmet. I've spent the last few weeks shopping for a new helmet to meet the updated safety standards, and I ordered the same size G Force I had previously, but it didn't fit. So I ordered the next size smaller, that didn't quite fit either, and the pressure point were bad. I'm not sure what the deal is, I love my G Force and I tend to be brand-loyal, but I think I'm going to have to try something new. So leave yourself plenty of time before your next event when ordering, plan on shopping around and trying different things.

Another good idea, if you can't find a local speedshop, just stop by an autocross. A lot of times there will be a guy selling parts right there in the pit area (CG-Locks, Gloves, Shoes, Helmets,etc) so that's a great place to try on a helmet.

akak1997 · 05-11-2009, 04:47 AM

I got an open face HJC helmet (Snell approved). I'm not sure if it's just me, but the helmet might be too tall and it's hitting the roof of my car when I wear it. I've bottomed out my seat (I've got power seats, I heard it's 1" higher than manual seats) and it's still hitting on the left side of my head. Anyone has the same thing w/ another brand helmet? thanks

Lubo · 05-18-2009, 02:53 PM

Full face helmets are required for any1 running top down on track days, @ autox most of the time i see guys in miata's running around in open face.

bigmicj · 05-18-2009, 07:33 PM

Does anyone know of a place in the L.A. area where I can try on a snell approved helmet? Lots of deals to be found online, but I have no idea what size I need. Thanks

Eddy@ApexWheels · 06-08-2009, 01:32 PM

If you're only autocrossing, then get an open faced helmet, the easy of visibility is preferred, and the cheaper ones are a not as big of an issue comfort wise since you're wearing it for a short period of time.

Pyrotech is a good budget helmet.

I run a bell closed face helmet since I no longer do autocross on a regular basis, and go to the track 95% of the time.

akak1997 · 06-08-2009, 04:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bigmicj

Does anyone know of a place in the L.A. area where I can try on a snell approved helmet? Lots of deals to be found online, but I have no idea what size I need. Thanks

http://www.bertsmegamall.com/
they're in Covina. They've limited Open face Snell approved helmets, but a good selection of Snell approved close face helmet. I got my cheap ass HJC there.
Another thing is, there are size variations between manufacturers... so a Bell's XL fits doesn't mean Shoei XL will fit you..

adrean8j · 06-08-2009, 11:10 PM

I just bought a Icon Alliance SSR Tyranny helmet for $180. But it is mainly for my soon to purchase bike.

DOT and Snell M2005.

ronyboy5 · 02-13-2023, 08:50 AM

There are varied winter accessories that come in handy.

03-31-2009, 03:35 PM	#1
J312 Monster of the Midway 13 Rep 112 Posts Drives: 128i Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: USA iTrader: (0)	Autocross Helmets I am looking at helmets for solo autocross events, and there seem to be quite a few ratings. Are they any helmets/ratings that are pretty universal (ie can be used in most events)? I am looking to spend between $100-200 if anyone has recommendations.
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03-31-2009, 04:01 PM	#2
nordique14 Major 53 Rep 1,477 Posts Drives: SGM 135i 'vert Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: Sharks Territory iTrader: (5)	most organizations require Snell certified helmets. Right now we allow SA2000 and SA2005. Next year we will no longer accept S2000 as the new SA2010 standards will be out. So do not pick up a used SA2000 as it will be obsolete real soon. For autox most orgs also allow M (motorcycle) helmets but not all do. You can also get open face or closed face. If you also want to do track, spring for the close face. For autox, open face will be fine and also cheaper.
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03-31-2009, 04:35 PM	#3
lib Major 141 Rep 1,401 Posts Drives: <This space for rent> Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: ATX iTrader: (0)	^ +1 In general: - New ratings come out every 5 years. '95, '00, '05, '10, etc. - Virtually anything you will attend will accept the two most recent specs. Currently '00 & '05. Starting next year that will move to '05 & '10. - SA ratings add rollbar multi-impact & fire protection that is not required for M ratings. Due to this, some tracks require SA ratings though you can usually skirt by on M ratings if you're just doing autocross. If you can, spring for an SA2005 - it will work anywhere. If you insist on doing it on the cheap then M2005 will have to do. Avoid M2000 & SA2000 at this point because they will be phased out next year.
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03-31-2009, 04:41 PM	#4
Citizen Z Alpine Master 109 Rep 1,310 Posts Drives: '08 135i AW Sport Join Date: May 2008 Location: Kansas iTrader: (1)	And what is a decent place to purchase? From what I've seen in a quick google search, there are plenty of sites that sell helmets but I don't know much about any of them. __________________ Alpine White with Taupe Leather 135i, Sports Package, Heated Seats, Comfort Access, iPod Adapter Fastness: http://www.1addicts.com/forums/showthread.php?t=252727
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03-31-2009, 04:58 PM	#5
nordique14 Major 53 Rep 1,477 Posts Drives: SGM 135i 'vert Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: Sharks Territory iTrader: (5)	You really need to try on helmets. Buying by size is tough as everyone has a different head shape and different pressure points. If you have a good motorsports shop in the area that would be the best. There is usually one or two near a track if you have a race track near by. You can also try a good motorcycle shop. Quite a few of the helmets they have there will be SA approved.
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04-01-2009, 12:40 PM	#7
J312 Monster of the Midway 13 Rep 112 Posts Drives: 128i Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: USA iTrader: (0)	Thanks everyone!
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04-01-2009, 01:54 PM	#8
Templedogg Captain 49 Rep 799 Posts Drives: 135i, Trailblazer SS, 1934 PU Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: Lake Stevens, WA iTrader: (1)	You will not find a better SA2005 helmet for the money period. Myself and several of my friends all have these for autocross and track days. Great helmet. Pyrotechs are made by Bell as well. http://www.helmetcity.com/page/HC/PR...ace/openfacesa __________________
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04-03-2009, 06:46 AM	#9
Feffman Banned 22 Rep 337 Posts Drives: M3 Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Gateway To The West iTrader: (0)	The good people at Simpson Racing (www.TeamSimpson.com) can help with all your helmet needs. I'd suggest at least an SA2005 rated helmet as it should be good for 10 years. Feff
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04-14-2009, 10:29 PM	#13
BimmerMeUp Private First Class 12 Rep 118 Posts Drives: 2008 135i Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: Seattle, WA iTrader: (0)	I started out using a $300+ Bell full face, but when it expired, replaced it with a $60 no-name M2005 helmet from a local discount motorcycle shop. For the few minutes I need it to do an autocross run, the cheap helmet is fine. Same helmet our club uses for loaners. __________________ 2008 135i Sparkling Graphite Metallic - 6Sp - Black Boston Leather - Gray Poplar trim - Sport Package Premium Package - Comfort Access - iPod/USB - HD FM - Premium Hi-Fi - Heated Seats 5/27 Euro Delivery Welt - 6/5 Drop off AMS - Re-Delivery 8/8 - SOLD 8/2015
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05-10-2009, 11:13 PM	#15
kwanzto 135i 1 Rep 38 Posts Drives: Graphite 135i Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Bangor, PA iTrader: (1)	All good advice so far, here is my 2 cents. I mostly autocross, so I use an open face helmet. I highly recommend an open face helmet for autocross; they are comfortable, keep you cool, and have great visibility. I have been using a G-Force (model 750 I believe, but I don't think they manufacture that one anymore). It was roughly $160 bucks and has been absolutely GREAT. You jut can't beat that deal. But I will warn you, if you order online, make sure the place you are ordering from has a good return policy; you will most likely not find the perfect fit on your first try. If you have a fitted baseball cap that is comfortable, match that up on the sizing chart, that's a great place to start. I will say this though, because I've been struggling with this problem recently... it seems to me that G Force has changed the materials or the method of constructing the padding inside the helmet. I've spent the last few weeks shopping for a new helmet to meet the updated safety standards, and I ordered the same size G Force I had previously, but it didn't fit. So I ordered the next size smaller, that didn't quite fit either, and the pressure point were bad. I'm not sure what the deal is, I love my G Force and I tend to be brand-loyal, but I think I'm going to have to try something new. So leave yourself plenty of time before your next event when ordering, plan on shopping around and trying different things. Another good idea, if you can't find a local speedshop, just stop by an autocross. A lot of times there will be a guy selling parts right there in the pit area (CG-Locks, Gloves, Shoes, Helmets,etc) so that's a great place to try on a helmet.
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05-11-2009, 04:47 AM	#16
akak1997 Major 62 Rep 1,159 Posts Drives: BMW 135 @ 135mph Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: Los Angeles iTrader: (2) Garage List 2008 135i [0.00]	I got an open face HJC helmet (Snell approved). I'm not sure if it's just me, but the helmet might be too tall and it's hitting the roof of my car when I wear it. I've bottomed out my seat (I've got power seats, I heard it's 1" higher than manual seats) and it's still hitting on the left side of my head. Anyone has the same thing w/ another brand helmet? thanks
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05-18-2009, 02:53 PM	#17
Lubo Lieutenant 23 Rep 475 Posts Drives: 15 335 iX Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: Long Island NY iTrader: (1)	Full face helmets are required for any1 running top down on track days, @ autox most of the time i see guys in miata's running around in open face.
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05-18-2009, 07:33 PM	#18
bigmicj Second Lieutenant 39 Rep 235 Posts Drives: 128i + M240iX Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: LaLaLand iTrader: (0)	Helmet Shop in LA Does anyone know of a place in the L.A. area where I can try on a snell approved helmet? Lots of deals to be found online, but I have no idea what size I need. Thanks
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06-08-2009, 01:32 PM	#19
Eddy@ApexWheels 442 Rep 1,658 Posts Drives: E30 M3, F10 M5 Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: Bay Area, CA iTrader: (6)	If you're only autocrossing, then get an open faced helmet, the easy of visibility is preferred, and the cheaper ones are a not as big of an issue comfort wise since you're wearing it for a short period of time. Pyrotech is a good budget helmet. I run a bell closed face helmet since I no longer do autocross on a regular basis, and go to the track 95% of the time.
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02-13-2023, 08:50 AM	#22
ronyboy5 Registered 0 Rep 1 Posts Drives: toyota Join Date: Feb 2023 Location: Miami iTrader: (0)	There are varied winter accessories that come in handy.
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