As a new street rider, I’ve often wondered what to do with my helmet when I park. Over time, I’ve picked up some handy tips from other experienced riders and found solutions that work well in different situations. Whether you have a half helmet or a full face lid, it’s important to know your options.
What Do You Do with Your Helmet When You Park?
Quick Stops and Longer Breaks
For quick stops, I sometimes hang my helmet on the mirror. It’s convenient, but in questionable situations, it can feel uncomfortable. If I’m making a longer stop, I might stash my helmet in my hard pannier bag or a seat-mounted backpack and lock it. This keeps it secure and gives me peace of mind.
Bringing It Inside
Bringing your helmet inside a store or building can be inconvenient and clumsy. However, if you can see your bike from where you are sitting, it might be a good option. Some riders prefer this to avoid any risk of theft.
Using Helmet Locks and Hooks
Most motorcycles come equipped with a helmet lock, usually located on the frame or under the seat. You can thread the chin strap of your helmet through the lock to secure it to the bike. If your bike has helmet hooks on the handlebar or frame, you can simply loop the chin strap over the hook.
Cable Locks and Luggage Hooks
A coiled cable lock is another great option. You can thread the cable through the ventilation ports or d-rings of your helmet and attach it to the motorcycle, either to the frame, a luggage hook, or even the brake disc. It’s small, easy to carry, and provides an extra layer of security.
Backpacks and Bags
If you have a backpack, messenger bag, or any other bag, you can place your helmet inside when parked. This method is especially useful if your bike doesn’t have room to store the helmet. It’s also a good way to keep your jacket secure.
Specific Bike Solutions
When riding my Hawk or Kingpin, I carry my helmet with me because neither bike has room to store even a cable lock. My Vision has a trunk where I can store my helmet, and if the trunk is full, I use a small cable lock to attach it to the passenger grab handles on the back seat.
Conclusion
Securing your helmet when you park your bike requires a bit of planning and the right tools. Whether you use a helmet lock, hooks, a coiled cable lock, or a backpack, the key is to keep your gear safe and convenient. Each method has its pros and cons, and sometimes the best solution depends on your specific situation and bike model.
FAQs
What to do with a motorcycle helmet after a crash?
Replace the helmet if your head struck anything in the motorcycle accident; it likely absorbed impact shock and lost effectiveness for another accident. This advice comes from the Motorcycle Safety Foundation.
What to Do with Old Helmets?
Transform old helmets into unique home decor like lamps, bookends, or planters. Verify if the helmet is suitable for recycling or donating for further use or wear; they are often made from EPS (expanded polystyrene foam) and plastic.
Where do you store your helmet?
Saddlebags, backpacks, and shoulder bags are convenient for storing helmets. They protect the helmet and allow bikers to carry essentials.
Where is the best place to keep a helmet?
Lock your helmet in a secure area like an office, employee locker, or a locked case at home. Avoid elevated surfaces to prevent fall damage; keep it on your person when on the go.
