Safety for drivers of vehicles is one of the most important criteria to which much attention is paid today. Unlike car owners, motorcyclists are particularly interested in their own level of protection while driving, using special clothing and accessories. Of great importance in ensuring reliability is properly selected equipment.
The uniform is used not only as a means of protection in road traffic accidents and from adverse weather conditions, but also is a way of self-expression, emphasizing individuality. The leading role in this process is played by the mandatory attribute - a motorcycle helmet.
Varieties of helmets
The main types of helmets include:
- The classic integral is a closed type with an opening glass and a built-in protective arch for the chin.
- Lightweight open type with a front screen that does not completely cover the head.
- A module that allows you to tilt the visor and chin arch without completely removing the product from the head.
- Helmet for racing with a long visor.
The modular is the most convenient helmet option. It has good strength and protects the head and chin. In some cases, it may have more weight and cost than a monolithic integral.
The most budgetary option will be an open helmet, however, it is more often used for driving at low speed, since the driver’s head is not fully protected. The helmet for motocross is convenient and, among other things, is equipped with a long arch for the chin.
Manufacturers Features
Currently, each manufacturer makes helmets according to their own technology. All products differ from each other and have individual characteristics. Reliability, a high degree of security and compliance with quality standards remain the general rule for all.
In the model range, some manufacturers have exceptions among the standard types of helmets.
For example, one of these options is a transformer helmet, the main feature of which is a change in the protection position for the jaw. The design of the product allows you to remove the chin arch to the back of the head, turning the helmet from closed to open.
A large number of manufacturers are working abroad on popular equipment and in demand equipment, however, among domestic goods there are also interesting models that cause close attention, for example, the domestic helmet "Predator".
Overview and general helmet features
Today, fans of motoculture express their individuality with the help of equipment, preferring new products and exclusive items. Among such interesting and unique models, the subject of general discussion was the Predator helmet of domestic production. A model for this product was the appearance of a monster from the same movie.
The 2010 model is manufactured in Moscow and Tolyatti, the official manufacturers of helmets in this bold design are NLO-Moto and Nitrinos. Handicraft production has been established in other cities of Russia. Many private masters can boast of their skills and offer to perform this model of helmet on order.
The design of the helmet is patented and has a lot of features and various removable parts. All these characteristics and the availability of additional options distinguish the manufacturing technology of one motor studio from another. The helmet is made manually from a composite material with carbon reinforcement, the inner layer of the base is made of standard foam. In each case, the product is special.
Individual features of the Predator model
Despite the differences in production technology, all structural characteristics that are responsible for the level of safety are observed in each version.
The weight of the Predator helmet is approximately 1,820 grams as standard.
The set includes light protective glasses, the installation of a cast protective mask is possible. The space under the helmet is ventilated using a special two-channel system, which significantly increases the level of comfort.
In one of the standard options, such a helmet has a dimensional grid from XS (55-56 cm) to XXL (63-64 cm) and is made in matte black. It is decorated with 22 dreadlocks about 35 cm long and has a visor, it must be opened with two hands.
Another manufacturer offers classic models weighing more than 2 kg, with 17-20 rubber or nylon dreadlocks, a double body with the possibility of amplification and a visor that opens with one hand. Different models of helmets are taken as a basis, color schemes, decor and cost differ.
Additional options for the Predator model
Optionally, such a helmet can be equipped with LED and laser modules, which operate on batteries and are located on the right side of the product. Elements have a red backlight, they are launched using the button.
In addition, mirrored and darkened visors can be present as additional equipment, added to change the image and protect from bright sun.
The appearance can be improved with a different color, a combination of carbon and varnished coatings, the presence of designer engraving, airbrushing and colored tips on dreadlocks. It is possible to apply spectacular fangs made of plastic or carbon fiber at the bottom of the predator's helmet. The reviews on the use of such accessories are the most positive, this adds courage and determination to the whole image.
Predator Safety Helmet Cost
The price of the basic professional model of the Predator helmet varies depending on the manufacturer and can range from 20 to 35 thousand rubles.
Additional accessories are not included in the price and are purchased at will. All masters and motorcycle studios include personal equipment in the basic and additional equipment, making individual and almost unique helmets for each customer. By connecting additional options, the product becomes effective, but significantly increases in price.
Types of unusual helmets
The manufacture of unusual motorcycle helmets can be attributed to subtle art. Skillful masters create unique masterpieces that you want to consider in more detail from all sides. Some talented drivers successfully update their old motorcycle gear and breathe new life in order to get tired of things.
The external design of the helmet can include any drawings, graphics and photographs - the image of cartoon characters and movie heroes, a mask of a frightening monster or a world famous robot. So, interesting options include open helmets with the image of round objects instead of the driver's head - a tennis ball, walnut, watermelon, ball for billiards and bowling. A bold decision can be an imitation of the brain or skull on the helmet, as well as a monolithic helmet with glasses and a face mask.
Interesting items include the patented Predator helmet. Photos of various bright helmets can be examined in detail in the article and thus gain inspiration, fresh ideas and, possibly, a new hobby.
DIY Predator Helmet
Many motorcyclists are actively interested in how to make a Predator helmet. Is it possible to do this on my own without changing the general template features of the serial product?
Following the instructions, making a Predator helmet with your own hands is quite easy. But if there are doubts and uncertainty about the safety of the resulting design, it is recommended to use such a helmet precisely for decorative purposes.
A classic helmet is used as the basis. The desired sample is set using certain materials: paper and plasticine are used to create the mold, and fiberglass and epoxy glue are used for decoration and impregnation. The dry structure must be brought to readiness and painted, and then the mask must be fixed to the helmet.
Following another technology, it is possible to impose a “Predator” shape on the base helmet using suitable plastic and professional equipment. In this case, the corresponding security is guaranteed due to the double layer of the body and the presence of a full helmet under the structure.
DIY step-by-step instructions for making a Predator helmet
- A classic helmet is selected as the basis. You can buy a budget basic model or use one of the available options, which managed to get bored or needs restoration.
- After selecting a donor, it is necessary to clean it of internal fillers, remove foam rubber and other parts.
- The remaining foam heading is installed on special construction equipment - the slipway platform (taking into account the size of the head).
- Then you need to give the product the correct shape with a soldering tool.
- Plasticine is fixed on top of the foam base, the layer is smoothed and evenly distributed using a roller.
- Having given the form a finished look, a basic portion of epoxy is applied to a smooth base, small pieces of fiberglass are distributed on top. Further, the process is repeated so that several layers are formed. As soon as the fabric is immersed and well saturated with resin, you should wait until the structure has completely dried.
- Using the angle grinder, the invention is sawn off, then the remnants of plasticine are removed using a building hot air gun.
- Then, following the safety instructions, the mold is sanded. It uses a grinder or drill with a special cleaning disc.
- Applying putty for automotive vehicles, the structure is completely smoothed out. The surface should be well prepared in order to avoid the appearance of roughness and roughness when painting the product.
- Next, you need to color the design and get the first visible result.
- Now you need to add dreadlocks in the form of tight laces to the helmet. Passing them through the holes on the crown, it is important not to forget to fix each inside.
- The helmet is decorated with three LED lamps on the right side, batteries and contacts are installed in the jaw area.
- The strap is mounted on rivets of a new design.
- Internal foam fillers from the previous helmet are sized and formed into briquettes using a cloth, and then glued to various parts of the product.
- The final step will be the selection and gluing of a visor - a tinted part from plexiglass.
A safety helmet is an essential safety attribute used by motorcyclists around the world. There are many varieties of helmets, but those who want to experiment with design can add brightness to their image with the help of the most unusual options, such as a helmet in the form of a predator.
Each motorist has the opportunity to order a similar product in official motorcycle studios, or try to make it yourself, following the instructions. The main thing is the decision to change the image and the desire to be special!