Truth about Carbon Helmets

Carbon Fiber Helmets are gaining popular this year in magazines, news, and even online. Some brands such as HJC and Akuma have been adveristing intensively on magazines with their special features such as coloring. Their prices are at least US$250 in store. They are unique and expensive, because not so many oem makers can produce carbon fiber helmets so far. I know only few can do it and asking for high price. But, to be honest to you, this technology is not a big deal at all.

Since 1994, carbon composites have become known for supplying a quality product. With its roots in the aerospace and automotive composites industries, many helmet makers have started designing helmets with carbon materials. Beware of "Carbon Fiber" helmets made in China. I saw some listings online selling carbon helmets for only US$30 with painted carbon patterns on appearance only. Absolutely 100% fake! The production cost of a full face helmet must go over US$100 per one unit.

I went to one of the oem makers this week and discussed with helmet engineers & technicians about carbon helmets. It costs much more to build one carbon helmet! Almost 3 times of fiber glass and only few oem makers can manufacture with raw carbon materials. I will soon examine the details of their production and testing next month and still working on building my first carbon helmet sample with color features that costed me few hundred bucks already

There are only one reason why a rider wants to buy a carbon helmet. It is very light in weight. The strength of carbon helmet is almost the same as that of fiberglass, but the weight of it is half or 3/4 of fiberglass helmet. This is more like a fashion for me so far. Soon in next few years, many brands can easily make carbon full-face or flip-up helmets.

Anyway, I am invited to attent the Feb 2010 motorbike tradeshow in Indianapolis and I will see you guys there!