Helmets

[KTulay]

I was curious if anyone could give the reasoning behind requiring a 2005 or greater helmet in 2011. I see that it is red in the rule book and I am assume that means it is a new change as of this current year.

I ask this because I am in the process of getting more involved in track events, and T/T events. I know a few people who have run with you guys and all have highly recommended it. I have a decently prepared "SPB" car that I have ran a few times now and also participate in both 24 Hours of LeMons and ChumpCar (with different cars ). At the current time no other organization I run with, or plan to run with in 2011 has a minimum helmet requirement of 2005.

The cost of a new helmet primarily only to run with you guys may be enough to deter me from doing so in 2011...

[breakaway500]

The reasoning behind requiring newer standards is because COM is a competition club,and safety equipment becomes something you do not want to compromise on when you are on track at 100%. Helmets get old,and beat up (not to mention a bit smelly..) and it really is in your best interest to have reasonably modern safety equipment. Snell 2000 helmets are going on 10 years old..and many have seen a lot of miles,and they can deteriorate to the point of compromising any usefulness in an impact situation. Safety is the one area you do NOT want to skimp on. A new M2005 helmet can be purchased in the $75 range.Less if you buy used... If it really came down to a helmet making or breaking your decision to attend a COM event,there usually is someone who will lend you an old,stinky helmet that will pass tech...

[nateh]

www.driversupply.com has a wide selection of helmets available.

[joncowen]

I was under the impression that it was standard practice to outlaw the helmets after 10 years. All the clubs i run with, track and autocross, are outlawing the 2000 units after this season.

My SA2000 helmet is getting pretty nasty, and i've only had it 6 years or so. It's ready to be replaced.

[chaos4NH]

In addition to the excellent comments above, we are starting to see the various tracks put forth helmet rating requirements. Our most recent event at NJMP required SA2000 at a minimum. No M2000 or 2005 helmets allowed.

[Om84]

Worst case you spend 400.00 bucks on a new sa2011, I rather lose 400.00 dollars than brain damage.
I argee with the rule book.

[KTulay]

I understand that helmets get old and loose their protective qualities and such. This wasn't a complaint but more a question when comparing the rule to other events (namely SCCA). I understand that NJMP has some of their own rules, as I think the state actually has a say in motorsports over there (I'm from PA).

breakaway500 , $75 sounds great, but I would rather have a SA rated helmet, as I need that in other forms of use.

nateh, I'll check it out, but I get nearly all of my equipment at www.saferacer.com

[breakaway500]

The SA2005 helmets are more expensive,but still can be found in the $125-150 range,new. I agree,an SA2005+ is the proper choice for car use,but all COM requires is a snell 2005+ to attend events,and M2005 helmets are fairly easy to find..and borrow from your bike riding buddies...

[chaos4NH]

I ran an M2000 helmet for the past 5 years. The difference from M to SA? ONLY the fire safety testing. Impact protection is the same for both. I will upgrade for next year to an SA 2010 since we will see more and more requirements stipulating SA. Is the OP saying that SCCA has NO dating requirements on helmets?

In researching, I was very suprprised that NASA only requires a helmet meeting 1990 requirements. Looking at all their other rules, I am very surprised!

[Dave_G]

The difference from M to SA? ONLY the fire safety testing. Impact protection is the same for both

Not quite true. There are three differences, including impact protection. From the Snell FAQ:

What are the differences between the SA, M and K standards?

The SA standard was designed for competitive auto racing while M standard was for motorcycling and other motorsports. The K standard was released to accommodate helmets used in karting. There are three major differences between them:

1. The SA standard requires flammability test while the M and K standards do not.
2. The SA and K standards allow for a narrower visual field than M standard (Some SA and K certified helmets may not be street legal).
3. The SA and K standards include a rollbar multi impact test while M standard does not

[chaos4NH]

Dave,
Thanks for correcting me on the multi impact requirement. The field of vision shouldn't matter much. In any case, I am moving to SA2010 to be on the "safe" side.

[breakaway500]

You could take it a step further,Sam...

I don't think you will have any trouble with point bys...

[chaos4NH]

right you are Mark! I was thinking of replacing the tow hook with a GE Mini Gun!

[nyc951]

I have a Bieffe Predator that I bought new in 2004. I've used the helmet once since then. Does anyone know what SA rating it has? I don't see any SA stickers on the helmet itself.

Thanks

[Chrispy]

I have a Bieffe Predator that I bought new in 2004. I've used the helmet once since then. Does anyone know what SA rating it has? I don't see any SA stickers on the helmet itself.

There should be a sticker under the padding (just pull the padding back slightly), although if it was 2004 it was probably a SA2000 as the SA2005's probably weren't out yet.