Motorcycle Helmet Safety Ratings: DOT, ECE & CCC explained by KingsMotorcycleFairings.com

Motorcycle helmets help cover and protect the riders' head and face from possible injuries by 69% making it the most important piece of safety gear for all motorcycle riders to wear. However, not all helmets are made the same or hold up to the same safety values. Our team at KingsMotorcycleFairings.com will go over the most common motorcycle helmet safety ratings to look for when purchasing your next helmet.

DOT Helmet Certification - FMVSS No. 218 safety compliance testing for motorcycle helmets

DOT or U.S Department of Transportation follows the regulations from the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS). If you reside in the U.S and are on the search for a new motorcycle helmet online or in store you’ll certainly want to check if it is DOT certified; meaning that the specific helmet model has gone through the DOT testing and is following the standard regulations set by the U.S. FMVSS to ensure it’s safety. Pro tip: DOT standard focuses on skull safety, collision absorption tests and helmet punctures for the riders, while the face and chin are not under consideration of these standards.

ECE - 22.05 Helmet Standard

The ECE 22.05 or Economic Commission For Europe certification comes from the United Nations agreement from 1958. The ECE standard and regulations are very similar to the DOT standards in regards to skull and impact resistance protection. However, the ECE regulations are a little more rigorous, covering the safety of the rider's chin strap buckle, chin strap tension failure, puncture test, the visor, the helmet's abrasion resistance and the shell deformation. Making the ECE standard considerably more safe. Lastly, it’s always a plus if the helmet you purchase is certified by multiple standards to ensure enhanced safety measures!

CCC Helmet Certification

The CCC or China Compulsory Certification is a compulsory safety mark for many imported/exported China originated helmet products. Much like DOT and ECE, China requires all helmet models to go through rigorous safety testing and to be certified before being sold to riders regardless of their location. The CCC tests are extensive like ECE and the testing includes; skull safety, helmet structure, impact resistance, visor protection, puncture tests and overall comfort. 

Despite our KingsMotorcycleFarings.com team describing the DOT, ECE and CCC helmet safety standards above, Motorcycle certifications can still become complex or confusing when shopping for the perfect motorcycle helmet, especially if you are new to riding. Remember that just because a helmet is certified by one specific classification, does not mean it meets the same safety standards as other certifications. Motorcycle helmets save lives, so it is vital for you and your passenger to always be wearing a helmet when riding and to know if the helmet you purchased will ensure your safety!

The team here at KingsMotorcycleFairings.com wishes that you found this article helpful. If you have extra time, we’d love for you to visit our online store for the largest selection of quality Motorcycle Helmets, Fairing Kits, Boots, Goggles, Backpacks & Accessories!

How To Get Your Motorcycle Road Ready For Spring by KingsMotorcycleFairings.com

It’s almost the best time of the year, Spring! After a long winter season we know all of our fellow motorcycle enthusiasts are eager to start up their motorcycles and get out on the roads! As exciting as spring is, it is crucial for the performance and longevity of your motorcycle to properly prepare and inspect your bike before taking it for that first ride of the year. Which is why our team here at KingsMotorcycleFairings.com wants to share with you some pro tips on how to prepare your motorcycle for the upcoming season!

Preparing Your Motorcycle

• Tire Pressure - If you are unsure of the correct psi for your motorcycle then it’s best to check your user manual before adding air to your tires. Inspect your tires for any visible cracks, damage and signs of aging. You'll also want to check the tread life of your tires, the general rule of thumb is to replace the tires if they are under 3/32”. 

• Battery Check - Thoroughly examine your battery, make sure the cables are securely connected and the terminals are clean. If you did not connect your battery to the charger over the winter, it is likely drained and needs to be charged. Pro Tip: Ensure your battery is fully charged before reconnecting it to your motorcycle. 

• Fluids - This is the perfect time to change and replace your oil and oil filter if you had not done so in the months prior to winterizing your motorcycle. In addition to changing your oil and filter, check and top off all other fluids within your motorcycle. Including the coolant, brake fluid, transmission oil, hydraulic clutch fluid and fork oil. If you notice any changes in color or consistency of the fluid, it may be time for that specific fluid flush. Also, be sure to check your user manual for the recommended service schedule . (If you're not confident in replacing your oil, oil filter and adding fluids to your motorcycle, we strongly recommend taking your bike to a professional to ensure it is performed correctly). 

• Belt & Chain - Check your motorcycle chain to ensure there is proper tension according to the manufacturer's specs. Also inspect the drive belt for signs of wear and cracks. Be sure to change the belt (if needed) before riding to prevent your bike from malfunctioning. 

• Spark Plugs - Inspect your motorcycle's spark plugs for any visible signs of damage, if you find damaged spark plugs we recommend taking the time to replace them or simply take them in to have them replaced by professionals. You’ll also want to ensure the spark plugs are free from dirt or grime, if they have either, simply remove the spark plugs and clean them to ensure proper spark is capable.

• Riding Gear - Lastly, inspect your motorcycle gear. Thoroughly examine your motorcycle helmet for cracks or any signs of damage. If you notice any cracks or damage on your helmet it should be immediately replaced. In addition, replace any other worn or scratched gear upon inspection. It’s important to remember the gear you wear is intended to protect you, if the gear is compromised it is no longer serving its purpose!

To ensure the performance & longevity of your motorcycle, it’s recommended to properly prepare your bike for the upcoming seasons, as well as regularly taking your motorcycle in for maintenance checks. As we mentioned before, it’s always best to contact a professional if you're unsure or have any questions in regards to the maintenance of your motorcycle. With that being said, we hope all of our fellow motorcyclists have a safe and wonderful riding season!

Different Types of Motorcycle Helmets by KingsMotorcycleFairings.com

When searching for a brand new motorcycle helmet you may notice the options are endless. Which can be intimidating to some, especially if you're not familiarized with the numerous types of helmets and which helmets suit your safety preferences and style the best. To make your helmet search easier, our team at KingsMotorcycleFairings.com listed out the different types of motorcycle helmets, as well as, what each helmet is generally worn for and how well each specific motorcycle helmet type protects your head safety.

FULL FACE HELMETS

Full face helmets provide complete protection and are generally the safest option amongst helmets to wear on the road. When looking at a full face helmet you will notice they include visors to properly protect the rider's eyes, with coverage going all around the face, coverage for the back of the head, as well as under the chin. This type of helmet is very versatile and loved by riders of all different style motorcycles.

HALF FACE HELMETS

You might see different variations of the half face helmet, but primarily this type of helmet is most commonly seen without a visor and is a dome like shape that helps protect the top portion of your head. The half face helmet that excludes a visor is also known as a bucket style helmet. This type of helmet is popular amongst cruiser motorcyclists and although it is not the safest of options compared to the others on our list, it can help boost the airflow when riding on a hot day.

Pro Tip: It is very common to see half face helmet riders wear sunglasses to help boost their visibility and protect their eyes while riding. However, riding with sunglasses is extremely dangerous as they are not designed to withstand the impact of sand, bugs and debris that may very easily shatter the lens within the glasses and harm the eyes of the motorcycle driver upon impact. The best solution, is to ride with motorcycle goggles, which are specifically designed to have UV sun protection + lenses with the strength and durability to deflect flying objects.

OPEN FACE OR 3/4 HELMETS

The open face helmet (also called a 3/4 helmet) is another favorite amongst many motorcyclists, especially riders who own scooters and mopeds or riders who simply like to ride at a slower speed. These helmets are easily identified by their open face appearance and chin strap to help the helmet stay secure to the rider's head. The helmet protects the back, side, and top of your head while the face remains open for you to catch the fresh breezes coming your way

MODULAR FLIP UP HELMETS

DIRT BIKE HELMETS

Dirt bike motorcycle helmets are quickly identifiable by their more exaggerated appearances, which are all very beneficial to the type of riding these motorcyclists perform. The dirt bike motocross helmets are lightweight, provide premium chin protection and are almost always without a visor on them. This is because most riders prefer to wear separate eye protection goggles allowing higher visibility and an easier way to clean off the mud that collects on the lenses. 

Ultimately, there are many different types of motorcycle helmets to choose from. Our team at KingsMotorcycleFairings.com highly recommends making your decision based on the type of riding you will be doing and how much protection you will need. Regardless of your riding experience and tenure, you should always wear a protective helmet!

The team here at KingsMotorcycleFairings.com hope that you found this article helpful. If you have extra time, we’d love for you to visit our online store for the largest selection of quality Helmets, Motorcycle Fairing Kits, Helmet Backpacks, Goggles, Helmet Covers & Accessories!

Top Five Motorcycles For Beginners by KingsMotorcycleFairings.com

If you're looking to buy your first beginner motorcycle look no further, our team at KingsMotorcycleFairings.com is here to help you find the perfect sport bike for you! It's important to note that not all motorcycles are equal and do make a good first motorcycle option; the less power when starting off is usually the best route to go as you get acclimated to driving on two wheels. Choosing a bike that is too advanced or powerful can be dangerous and overwhelming for a beginner. There are endless exceptional beginner-friendly models to choose from across all major brands that still pack a punch. However, we narrowed it down to the top 5 motorcycles to make it easier for you to make your final purchase decision. 

Honda CBR500r

The Honda CBR500r makes a great candidate to consider for your first motorcycle. The Honda CBR500r can look on the heavier side, however it is in fact lightweight, user friendly, easy to handle and has great stability. This bike is perfect for all types of riding, its spacious seating makes it highly comfortable allowing all day riding possible. In addition to the functioning of the bike many riders are also drawn to the Honda CBR500r for its sharp sporty design and we can't blame them. 

Kawasaki 250r

The 250r by Kawasaki is another motorcycle that is well known for being a top pick for beginners. The Kawasaki 250r gives you a respectable amount of power without it being overwhelming, as well as being light and nimble making it almost effortless to handle. This model is also a godsend for riders who are on the shorter side, if your height is around 5 '0 - 5' 9 you can sit comfortably on the 250r with no issues. Last but not least, the Kawasaki 250r motorcycle is on the inexpensive side considering its competitors and has excellent gas mileage of 50 miles per gallon!

Yamaha YZF-R3

The Yamaha YZF-R3 is a great choice for beginner riders as the motorcycle is extremely easy to handle due to the bike being lightweight and nimble. It may look on the smaller side, but the YZF-R3 is packed with power from borrowing the piston design of the R6. Motorcyclists also love the comfortability the Yamaha R3 provides (some will claim it’s more comfortable than the average touring bike). The flat seat also gives riders a chance to position their feet on the ground during stops. Along with comfortability this bike is also a great affordable option if you’re looking to save money on gas as it gets a whopping 56 miles per gallon. 

Kawasaki 650r

The 650r is another awesome Kawasaki motorcycle to consider. It has the sportiness a lot of riders tend to look for, but is also simple and user friendly for a majority of riders to learn on. The Kawasaki "Ninja" 650r is great for anyone who is wanting to utilize their bike for their daily commute as it has a low seat height making it easier to control and allows more confidence for a new rider. This exceptional bike is also easy to handle, lightweight and stable, thus making it a perfect contender when purchasing your first motorcycle. 

Honda 250r

Similar to the Honda CBR500r the Honda CBR250r is another awesome Honda option. The Honda CBR250r has enough power for beginners to enjoy and learn on. Its affordability and reliability makes it a very common selection many beginner riders choose for a motorcycle. This bike offers a smooth ride and is perfect for commuting to wherever your destination is. It’s lightweight build and easy handling makes this bike very enjoyable for new riders. 

In conclusion, it's important to find a motorcycle that works for you. Whether your first priority is comfortability, speed, power or handling it's always best to choose a motorcycle that allows you the space to learn and to become comfortable and confident in the process. For the beginner riders out there, please remember to always be aware of your surroundings, wear your protective gear and never ride your motorcycle without your helmet. 

Top 6 Most Scenic U.S. Roads For Motorcycle Riders by KingsMotorcycleFairings.com

There’s nothing like the feeling and freedom of riding down an open road with a beautiful view in front of you. If you’re searching for the best scenic roads for you and your motorcycle to explore, look no further! Our team at KingsMotorcycleFairings.com curated a list of the top 6 roads across America you’re going to want to see in-person!

1.) Tennessee: "Cherohala Skyway"

We chose Cherohala Skyway in Tennessee for our first pick, which is widely known for connecting to the famous Dragon Tail route. The road goes from Tennessee to North Carolina and it is roughly 51 miles long depending on where you start. 

What makes the Cherohala Skyway so special is that it is jammed packed with curvy roads and beautiful scenic views of the Smoky Mountains, trees and more. Cherohala Skyway is also on the calm side when it comes to traffic density, making this the perfect route for riders. Pro Tip: Make sure you fill up on gas and pack food & beverages in your motorcycle travel backpack, because there are no service stops on the Skyway.

2.) Texas: "Three Sisters"

Our second choice is the incredible Three Sisters road (aka the Twisted Sisters) in Texas. This route is roughly 170 miles long, depending on whether you add stops like Kerrville into your trip. Three Sisters is a great option for the adventurous riders who like tight turns, fast bends and smooth roads.

The Twisted Sisters include gorgeous country roads, rock walls and an exhilarating ride. This specific route can be challenging and dangerous due to the fast bends, blind spots and quick turns, so keep that in mind and make sure to wear your motorcycle helmet and other protective gear! 

3.) Michigan: "Tunnel of Trees"

The Tunnel of Trees is our third choice and you can probably guess why. It is a gorgeous road full of movie-like scenery, dense forests of plush trees, glimpses of the Michigan shoreline and many scenic tourist stops along the way.

The road is roughly 20 miles long and fully paved. There are some areas along this route that can be narrow for some, as well as a number of spots that have tight twist-backs. Overall, the Tunnel of Trees is a road motorcycle riders dream of and one your must add to your bucket list!

4.) Montana: "Beartooth Pass"

For our fourth choice we selected Beartooth Pass in Montana, which is approximately 64 miles long. Disclaimer, this route is on the dangerous side. It has many ups and downs, drop offs, numerous switch-backs and little to no guard rails. With that being said it is also one of the most favorable routes amongst the more experienced riders within the motorcycle community.

Beartooth Pass includes dense forest areas, incredible mountain views and it's no uncommon to see other thrill-seeking motorcycle riders out on the road enjoying the challenge. If you choose to add this breathtaking route to your list, please make sure to wear your motorcycle helmet, jacket, gloves and other protective gear.

5.) Colorado: "San Juan Mountain Skyway"

Our fifth road is the amazing San Juan Mountain Skyway. As you can see from the photo above, this route is absolutely breathtaking and is approximately 236 miles long. If that’s a little lengthy for you don't worry,  you can always cut the trip in half instead of riding the entire loop.

San Juan Mountain Skyway is full of jaw dropping scenery, including views of the gorgeous San Juan rocky mountains, river valleys and hot springs. Along with a few other recommended routes we stated, the San Juan Mountain Skyway is a route you should be very careful on. It has windy turns, switch-backs and little to no guard rails.

6.) Ohio: "The Triple Nickel"

We couldn't help but pick The Triple Nickel for our sixth slot. This route is roughly 35 miles long and has amazing scenery, rolling hills, remote farmlands and you'll also get to drive your motorcycle through the incredible Wayne National Forest! 

The Triple Nickel has very light traffic density, but don't let that fool you, this road can be very dangerous at times. It is a route that should be driven by experienced motorcycle riders only. Why? Because The Triple Nickel has plenty of twists and turns with a mix of gravel spots off to the shoulder. It requires extreme concentration and all of your protective motorcycle gear!

We hope this article helped assist you in narrowing down your selection of scenic roads you'd like to explore in 2023. As a reminder, always be aware of your surroundings, stay safe, wear your motorcycle helmet and other protective gear and don't forget to enjoy your ride!

The team here at KingsMotorcycleFairings.com hope that you found this article helpful. If you have extra time, we’d love for you to visit our online store for the largest selection of quality Motorcycle Fairing Kits, Helmets, Backpacks, Gear & Accessories!