Searched but didnt see many helmet recomendations in the last few years. I am trying to decide how much money to throw. I am a novice rider, and yes it gets darned hot in my area in the summer- trying to decide wether a begginner like me should cough up the extra bucks for carbon or just go with a poly for now. Unfortunately I will have to mail order, so it will be tough getting the proper fit. Not afraid to buy good gear, (I felt boots were important enough to go the Gaernes oiled) do you guys feel a newbie will notice the benefits of carbon?
I have been using a standard 3/4 instead of my full face shield, but it does get hot and I dont want to strain my neck.
Opinions?
Thanks,
Doug

With the amount of time that you spend on teh bike, it is very much worth the money to get a nice light helmet. You also have to weigh that off against the heat issue.

I got the NZI Tri-vent helmet, and like it a lot. Being made up of about 1/3 vents, it is very airy and also pretty light. There is the problem of rain getting in, but it really has to be pouring for that to be an issue. And your head is usually wet from the sweat anyway...:ride:

I got an Arai from Lewisport.

Much lighter and easier to ride in than my Arai MX helment.

It's not just the lack of chin guard, the face area opening is also wider. Much easier to see what you're doing.

i bought the novogars and found them to be slight cheesy in quality,the gaernes are much better,i bought the shiro matrix not bad for the money, i like it

Another vote for the Shiro Matrix. Reasonable weight, good price and comfortable fit. The vents do seem to help a bit. A specialised trials helmet is a good idea ... they are cut higher at the rear to allow head up movement and are thinner and cut back at the sides to allow more peripheral vision. Bought mine from the US (I'm in NZ) ... measured round my head at 58cm so ordered the Medium and it fits well.

Another for the Shiro Matrix. I just wanted a proper Trials Helmet on a budget, Trident's weren't in stock. After a bit of a breakin period it fits well. There's probably better one's from Arai, Shoei etc but it's fine for this rookie.

I recommend that you wear it.

NZI

-JB

i"m from ky and it shows !i use my mt bike lid ,its light cool and works great .and i have put it to the test more than once ,recently looped out the bike sky high and landed on my head (shutup)other than my teeth hurting for awhile the protection was fine.