Thrill seekers and ride lovers, you want to exceed the speed limits of 25 km/h on your electric scooter. One piece of advice, consider changing your helmet if you buy a more powerful/faster scooter. We explain the reasons.
Why does speed influence helmet choice?
Riding a fast or powerful electric scooter involves increased risks for users. The higher the speed, the more deadly collisions can be. Discover why a suitable helmet is essential for riding safely, especially with fast or unbridled models.
Impact of speed on safety
The fast and powerful electric scooters are popular among ride enthusiasts. Although the maximum speed is limited to 25 km/h on public roads, brands are constantly competing to produce THE most efficient model on the market. With this obsession for speed, the risks associated with using electric scooters multiply. At high speed, riders are more exposed to serious accidents. According to statistics, 40% of electric scooter injuries affect the head. Electric scooter helmets are therefore no longer an option but a real necessity.
Regulations regarding helmet use
For now, the Highway Code does not mention mandatory helmet use for electric scooters. But that doesn't mean you should have fun riding without protection. Always be reasonable and wear a helmet in all circumstances. This way, you will be spared from serious, even fatal accidents.
Classic bike helmet or electric scooter helmet: which one to choose?
In most cases, a bike helmet can be enough to protect your head from injuries. However, if you ride a fast electric scooter, prefer a full-face helmet. For this, the Kali ZOKA Full-Face MTB Helmet is an excellent choice. This model offers more protection, whether for the head, chin, or cheeks. It thus ensures optimal protection in case of a fall.
The statistics speak for themselves. Only 12% of victims were wearing a helmet at the time of the accident.
What types of helmets to choose for a faster electric scooter?
Not all helmets are created equal. If the speed of your electric scooter exceeds 25 km/h, your safety will depend on your choice of equipment. Let's look together at the types of helmets available on the market and their advantages.
The full-face helmet: for maximum safety
The full-face helmet is the preferred choice of fast electric scooter riders. Its main asset: complete coverage of the head, chin, and cheeks. Enough to guarantee optimal protection in case of a fall or collision.
The full-face helmet is perfect for high-speed rides. It is especially recommended for riding calmly on fast lanes where speeds can exceed 25 km/h.
The modular or jet helmet: an interesting alternative for urban rides
If your electric scooter is mainly used for city riding or bike paths, the modular helmet is a perfect compromise. Although it does not offer full face protection, it compensates with its lightness that heavy riders will surely appreciate. But beware, its low protection makes it a less recommended choice for high-speed rides.
The electric bike helmet: for riding at a moderate speed
We drift a bit from the main topic, but we cannot fail to present the bike helmet. It is the first choice of all electric scooter users before moving on to more robust models like the modular or full-face helmet. A must for all beginners.
Criteria for choosing a helmet for fast electric scooter
Before finalizing your choice, review these few criteria:
● Comfort and fit: a well-fitted helmet is not only safer but also more comfortable to wear over long distances.
● The presence of a sound warning device: some modern helmets have sound warning devices to improve safety.
● The ventilation system and side reflective devices: essential for night rides or on low-light roads.
The impact of weather and riding conditions on helmet choice
The weather and the type of terrain you ride on can really influence the helmet you choose, whether for comfort or safety.
Weather conditions
In hot weather, a helmet with good ventilation is a plus to stay comfortable. A well-ventilated helmet such as the Eroz Vintage Collection helmet for electric scooter and electric bike helps to avoid overheating and sweating, which is practical on sunny days. On the other hand, if you ride in the rain, a helmet that is a bit more covering and water-resistant can offer you better protection. Some models have integrated visors to prevent water from bothering you while maintaining good visibility.
Type of terrain
If you often ride on uneven paths or rough terrain, it is better to opt for an off-road or full-face helmet. These models offer more coverage and are more robust, which is ideal to reduce risks in case of a fall on less stable surfaces. In the city or on well-maintained tracks, a lighter helmet will suffice, but as soon as you leave the usual roads, a more robust model is a safer choice.
Depending on the weather and the types of trips you make, it may be wise to choose a helmet adapted to these conditions for more comfort and protection.
When should you change your helmet and how much does a good quality helmet cost?
A helmet is not eternal. Its lifespan is limited by time and the impacts it endures. Discover the signs indicating that it is time to replace your helmet to preserve your safety on the road.
The lifespan of a helmet
Your dear protector is not designed to last indefinitely. Like any object, the helmet has a lifespan, after which it must be replaced to ensure optimal safety. The helmet for electric scooter should be replaced every 3 to 5 years, as its materials degrade quickly. Once degraded, materials like the inner foam lose their ability to absorb shocks.
Signs of aging and wear
To know if your helmet needs to be replaced, watch out for certain signs:
● A scratched or cracked outer shell.
● Inner foam that crumbles or flattens.
● Loose or hard-to-adjust straps.
The cost of a good quality helmet
Even though safety remains the priority, the price of a helmet is an important criterion for many. It can be useful to consider the cost-effectiveness of your purchase.
Some helmets offer excellent protection without being too expensive. Try to find a good balance between safety and budget. For example, mid-range helmets can cost between €30 and €60, while high-end models with enhanced protection can reach €100 or more. Depending on your needs and frequency of use, it may be worth comparing options to find the best compromise.
The flashing helmet LUMOS Ultra for electric scooter is an excellent choice if you want to invest in a good helmet. It offers better protection and stands the test of time.
What are the risks of using a helmet not suited for high speed?
Using a helmet not suited to your fast electric scooter can have serious consequences. From poor fit to the dangers of unbridling, here’s why it’s vital to choose equipment specifically designed for high speed.
The dangers of a poorly fitted helmet
Wearing a poorly fitted or unsuitable helmet for high speed can be dangerous. If it’s too large, it might slip and fail to protect your head during a fall. Conversely, if it’s too small, discomfort could distract you on the road, potentially causing accidents.
The risk of unbridling
In the world of electric scooters, there is a practice called “unbridling.” It should be known that electric scooters are generally limited to 25 km/h to comply with European Union regulations. However, speed enthusiasts often remove this limit to push the device to its maximum. Models like the Dualtron Thunder 3 can, for example, reach speeds over 100 km/h once unbridled. At such speeds, wearing a full-face helmet is essential to ensure effective protection.
Helmet maintenance and care
An often overlooked but important aspect to extend the lifespan of your helmet and ensure its effectiveness is maintenance. Proper care not only preserves its appearance but, more importantly, maintains its safety features.
To keep your helmet effective and long-lasting, take good care of it.
• Cleaning and maintenance: Choose gentle products for cleaning, avoiding harsh chemicals. Check the condition of the inner foam and replace it if damaged. Also ensure the straps are properly adjusted and in good condition to guarantee a secure fit.
• Storage: Store your helmet in a dry place, away from heat, scratches, or impacts. Use a cover or stand to prevent it from deforming or deteriorating.
With these small habits, you can extend the lifespan of your helmet while ensuring it remains effective for your safety.
Conclusion
Changing your helmet when buying a fast electric scooter is therefore not just a matter of caution, it’s a necessity. As we have seen, a helmet must be able to reduce the risk of serious injuries, provide optimal protection even at high speeds, and comply with legal standards.
A certified helmet guarantees you a safe ride. It’s a wise investment that can make all the difference on the road. Ultimately, choosing a good helmet means riding with confidence and protecting what matters most: your life.