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German Motorcycle Helmet
Looking for a German Motorcycle Helmet?
The words “German motorcycle helmet” do not necessarily
describe headwear made in Germany. Rather, they describe
a particular style of motorcycle helmet with a
distinctive look and design. When most people think of
German motorcycle helmets, they think of what they see
in World War II movies and photographs. Most motorcycle
helmets of this type do, indeed, have this well known
look about them.
In the 1920s and 1930s, the German government began
re-designing the World War I steel helmet worn by the
military. By 1935, the German military approved the new
“stahlhelm” known as the M1935. This helmet, and the
ones that followed, became the basis for German
motorcycle helmets as they are known today.
There are actually two types of German helmets – those
approved by the federal Department of Transportation
(DOT) and those not approved by this regulatory agency.
In order to be DOT approved, helmets must meet specific
standards as outlined by the government and found at
www.DOT.gov. Helmets that don’t fall within these
guidelines are referred to as “novelty” helmets.
Although they are very popular with certain bikers, they
are not legal and are likely subject to ticketing by
police.
Different Varieties and Manufacturers
Just like most other motorcycle riders, those choosing
German style helmets seek quality, comfort, safety and
looks when making their selection. German motorcycle
helmets are made in the United States and Japan, as well
as in Germany. Primary manufacturers include Iron Horse,
EX, Eagle, AGV, Big German, Eagle, EZ Rider, Cheetah,
Smokey and Harley Davidson.
By looking at descriptions of specific DOT and non-DOT
approved German motorcycle helmets, it is easy to
determine what makes this headwear unique and why it is
so popular among traditional and non-traditional bike
riders.
The EX DOT helmet is frequently described as the
lightest and smallest “real” DOT headwear. It comes with
a revolutionary one-piece built-in visor that is quickly
detachable – “easy on, easy off.” It also has a sunglass
style face shield with quick release buckle. This helmet
is made of fiberglass, using new components and new
technology. Very lightweight, it reportedly offers
riders a greater strength than anything currently
available.
The DOT Shorty Eagle 100 comes with a soft-to-the-touch,
real leather cover over a fiberglass shell. It offers
traditional styling with a plush moisture absorbing
interior, D-ring closure and sun visor. This
German-style model is DOT approved and is considered one
of the best, and most affordable, helmets on the market.
When considering an Eagle Novelty Leather Helmet, one of
the best sellers and most frequently seen, it’s
important to remember that this model does not meet DOT
standards. It does offer the convenience of a single
strap with a quick release feature.
Big German motorcycle helmets are generally DOT
approved. Like most other German models of headwear, Big
German helmets offer fiberglass shells, rubber trim and
steel rivets.
One of the helmets offering a great look is the German
Chrome model. It features German styling with a shiny
chrome finish. This is a novelty helmet and does not
meet DOT safety standards. Nonetheless, this is
considered a very comfortable style. Features include a
metal quick release buckle, a four-ply hand-laminated
fiberglass shell, a “Y” strap, a fully lined interior
and steel rivets.
The Jockey Leather Novelty Helmet is the epitome of the
German motorcycle helmet, as detailed in many web sites.
This model comes only with a “Y” chin strap and has very
simple lines. It is reportedly very popular, because of
its design and affordability.
Why Choose a German Helmet?
For those bikers who like to look a bit different and
who want to make a fashion statement with their
headwear, a German motorcycle helmet is the perfect
choice. There are few things more impressive than a
group of bikers riding into town, all on Harleys and all
outfitted in full leathers and German style helmets.
About the Author
Valeria Vegas has a Masters degree in Writing and regularly writes for a local newspaper. She
also teaches writing workshops in
San Francisco and has taught high school
English. As a freelance job, she corrects essays for the
SAT and ACT through
Pearson scoring as well as write copy for websites. She is the
Associate Editor of a literary magazine, edit manuscripts for Behler
publications, and works for authors independently.
One of her stories was named Notable Story of 2004 by
Million Writers. She is a regular contributor to
http://My-Motorcycle-Helmet.com .
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