I'm not sure who you're calling out on this. My post was meant to clarify the differences between M-rated and SA-rated helmets and why the Snell Foundation uses different criteria for their tests. Of course, some motorcycle accidents involve multiple impacts and you should buy and use the best protection available. The point is, there's a difference between the two standards and educated consumers (which is what this thread is about) should know the difference.

"Snell "M" (Motorcycle) rated helmets are designed for motorcycling and other motorsports. They offer slightly less protection than SA rated helmets.

Key differences between M and SA Rated Helmets (from Snell website):
SA standard requires flammability test while the M standard does not.
SA standard has rollbar impact test while M standard does not.
SA standard allows narrower visual field than M standard (Some SA helmets aren't street legal)."


pulled that from Snell M2005 Helmet From SoloRacer.com

Good summation of the differences. Now, for those who want to complain about the cost of a helmet, just check how much a hospital stay or treatment for a traumatic brain injury (TBI) will be!

I use a Simpson Devil Ray. Due to numerous pieces of titanium in my neck and spine light weight is important to me. Let's face it. You're going to be playing bobble head out there. You might as well be comfortable and safe.

Get a couple of balaclavas. You can switch them out and keep the inside of your helmet livable. Nothing worse than putting a wet helmet on that smells like an armpit.

The suggestion of going to a brick and mortar store is a good one. You should try different manufacturers as well. A size 7 1/4 from Bell will not necessarily fit your head type the same as a Simpson 7 1/4. If you wear glasses be sure to put your glasses on and rotate your head from side to side. I have found that some helmets are better suited to glasses than others.

Helmets with removable linings are interesting for the fact you can wash that too.