King Head helmet--any reason not to get one?

[Don Gwinn]

I searched for info on helmets earlier, and it looks like the consensus here is not to pay more than $50, maximum, and that $15-$25 is a more reasonable price range.

I looked at helmets today with my kids at the local hardware store (again, I'm taking it on faith that I can do this and still get a good, protective helmet.) But their largest helmet, sized "Adult" :rolleyes: won't fit on my head. In fact, my nine-year-old son can wear it comfortably without any of the sizing pads installed. Kid's a pumpkinhead.

So I looked around online, and the only helmet I found that seemed like it would work for me is the King Head (http://www.genuineaccessories.com/KingHead/KHBicKng.htm) from Bell. This thing is supposed to fit up to 8.25-inch heads, and it costs $20. Is there any reason not to get one of these?

Take your time; I won't be able to go to a bike shop until Saturday at the earliest.

[Don Gwinn]

I found a helmet to fit at Wally World. No opinions on the King Head here at all? Interesting.

[catatonic]

here's the nutsheel guide to helmsts:

a) is it CPSC certified?

B) does it fit comfortably?

C) is the ventilation good enough for you?

If all 3 are a YES, buy it....otherwise look elsewhere.

[Roody]

It looks even uglier than most other helmets.

[John E]

If you do choose to wear a helmet, as I do, just make sure you don't practice risk compensation by riding less cautiously when wearing it.

[DCCommuter]

The reason not to buy it is that not all king-sized heads are created equal. I bought one a few years ago because it was the only one in the shop that fit my oversized melon, but it wasn't very comfortable as it was the wrong shape for my head.

Helmets are like shoes, you have to try them on. If you have a big head, the problem is that most shops will have a very limited selection to choose from.

[Marge]

unless you desperately need a new helmet, I suggest you wait until September/October many local bike shops are bike and ski or bike and snowboard.
I got a perfectly nice giro helmet last year for $19.99 simply becuase the shop wanted them off the floor and out of there.

[slagjumper]

The King head is the bigest helmet that I have seen. It's for those with really big heads. I think Garneau also makes a xxl that is about the same size. Dont get this helmet unless you have a bigger head that most of the people you know.

M

[Dahon.Steve]

That helmet only has ten vents! There is no way I would ever buy a helmet with ten vents especially after buying my $70.00 Giro. I too had a $35.00 dollar gray no name helmet and decided to buy a good one. WHAT A DIFFERENCE! I felt it the minute it was on my head and will not look back. The white color of the helmet really makes a difference. The only thing I regret is not buying one sooner.