Disclaimer: The information provided in the blog is general in nature only. While Procycles has endeavoured to ensure the information we’ve relied on is accurate and current, we do not guarantee it. We accept no liability for this information.
The right motorcycle helmet isn’t just about style. It’s about safety, comfort, and matching your riding lifestyle. Whether you’re carving through Sydney’s winding coastal roads or navigating the city’s daily traffic, your helmet is your most important piece of safety gear. Yet, with so many motorcycle helmet brands, helmet styles, and fit options, it can feel overwhelming knowing where to start.
A properly fitted helmet could save your life. That’s not marketing talk, it’s physics and design.
Understanding Helmet Types and Riding Styles
Your riding style determines what kind of helmet suits you best. Each helmet design balances comfort, noise reduction, airflow, and protection in different ways.
Full Face Helmets

Full-face motorcycle helmets are the gold standard for protection. They cover your entire head, including a solid chin bar for full face protection. For on-road or highway riding, they’re ideal. The face shield guards against wind, bugs, and debris, all while reducing the impact of rotational forces in a crash.
Modular Helmets

Modular helmets (also called flip-up helmets) give you flexibility. The chin bar can lift up for convenience when you stop for fuel or a quick chat. Some modular helmets even feature a drop-down sun shield for changing light conditions. These are perfect if you do a mix of urban riding and touring.
Open Face Helmets

Open face helmets offer less face protection but more airflow and a sense of freedom. They suit riders on cruisers or scooters who prefer relaxed city rides. However, without a chin bar, you sacrifice some safety. Always balance style and safety before choosing an open face helmet.
Dual Sport and Off Road Helmets

If you enjoy off road or adventure riding, dual sport helmets are designed for you. They feature extended visors for sun glare, space for goggles, and lightweight shells for long days on rough terrain. Off road riding demands airflow and flexibility, which these helmets deliver.
Getting the Fit Right
No matter the helmet style, fit is everything. A properly fitted helmet should be snug but not painful. Too loose and it won’t protect you. Too tight and it’ll create pressure points and headaches.
Measure Your Head Size
Use a tape measure to wrap around your forehead just above your eyebrows and ears to find your head size. Then, refer to the size chart from your chosen helmet brand. Each brand has slightly different sizing, so always check before buying.
Head Shapes Matter
Most helmets are designed around three basic head shapes: round oval, intermediate oval, and long oval. An intermediate oval fits most riders, but if your helmet feels tight on the sides or forehead, try another shape. The goal is even pressure all around your head without hot spots.
The Break In Period
Even the best motorcycle helmet will feel tight when new. The inner padding, often expanded polystyrene and foam liners, will break in over time. After about 15 to 20 hours of wear, the helmet should settle into a good fit, not too loose and not too firm.
Features That Make a Difference
Sun Shields and Visors
Many helmets include a built in drop down sun shield, perfect for bright Sydney days. Others come with removable or tinted face shields. Make sure the visor seals properly against wind and water.
Ventilation
Sydney’s summer heat demands good airflow. Look for helmets with multiple vents that can be opened or closed. Better ventilation means less fogging and more comfort during long rides.
Safety Standards
Always check for approved safety ratings. In Australia, helmets must comply with the Australian Standard (AS/NZS 1698) or the European Standard (ECE 22.05). Never buy a helmet without a visible certification sticker. Safety comes before everything.
Helmet Materials
Premium brands often use carbon fibre or fibreglass composite shells. These materials make helmets lighter without compromising protection. While more expensive helmets might seem excessive, they often offer superior comfort, quieter rides, and advanced safety technology.
For Riders Who Wear Glasses
If you wear glasses, look for helmets designed with channels in the padding to accommodate your frames. Modular helmets or full face helmets with wider openings often make it easier to slip glasses on and off.
Try Before You Buy
The only way to know if a helmet truly fits is to try it on. Put it on, fasten the chin strap, and move your head side to side. The helmet should move with you, not slide. Check for any discomfort around your forehead, cheeks, or ears.
Stand in front of a mirror or your bike’s wing mirror and ensure the helmet sits evenly on your head. If you’re between sizes, always go smaller rather than larger. Most helmets will loosen slightly with use.
When to Replace Your Helmet
Even the most expensive helmet doesn’t last forever. Replace your helmet every five years, or immediately after any crash, even if there’s no visible damage. The inner liner can compress from normal wear, reducing its protective ability over time.
Choosing Your First Helmet with Confidence
Whether it’s your first helmet or an upgrade to a premium model, think of it as an investment in safety and comfort. A new helmet that fits well will make every ride more enjoyable, whether you’re heading into Sydney traffic or setting out for your next adventure.
Find the Perfect Helmet at Procycles
At Procycles, your local bike dealership in Sydney, our team understands helmets better than anyone. We stock a wide range of motorcycle helmet brands and styles, from modular helmets with drop-down sun shields to full-face motorcycle helmets for maximum protection.
Our experts will measure your head size, help identify your head shape, and ensure you find the right motorcycle helmet for your riding style and budget. Whether you need a dual sport lid for off-road weekends or an open face helmet for city rides, Procycles has the perfect fit waiting for you.
Visit Procycles in Sydney to try on helmets, explore the latest models, and get expert advice before your next ride. The right helmet isn’t just about protection; it’s about confidence on every journey.