January may have passed, but winter isn’t quite over just yet. February is often when riders begin preparing for the season ahead, upgrading kit, servicing bikes and replacing worn equipment before spring arrives.

At the BMF, we’ll always say it plainly:

A helmet is not a fashion item or a clearance bargain. It is life-saving equipment.

A discount is only a deal if the helmet meets the standards designed for one purpose – to protect your life or the life of someone you love.

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⭐ 1. Why Helmet Safety Still Matters – Every Month

Head injuries remain one of the leading causes of fatal and life-changing outcomes for motorcyclists. Helmets are engineered to:

* Absorb impact energy
* Manage force distribution
* Reduce rotational forces
* Protect the brain during angled impacts

But they only do this if they meet recognised safety standards and fit correctly.

That’s why the BMF continues to champion independent testing, rider education and informed buying decisions all year round.

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⭐ 2. SHARP: The UK’s Independent Helmet Rating Scheme

The Safety Helmet Assessment and Rating Programme (SHARP) helps riders make informed choices by:

* Testing helmets in multiple impact zones
* Rating them from 1 to 5 stars
* Publishing independent performance data
* Cutting through marketing claims

SHARP’s golden rule:
Try before you buy. Choose the best-fitting helmet with the highest rating you can afford.

🔗 Website
🔗 Facebook
🔗 Instagram

Following SHARP on social media is an easy way to stay updated on new test results and safety guidance.

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⭐ 3. Shark Helmets & SHARP: A Practical Example

Shark is a well-known brand with several models tested by SHARP, including the Shark Ridill 2, which features:

* Polycarbonate shell
* Quick-release buckle
* Anti-fog / anti-scratch visor
* Glasses-friendly interior
* Comms-ready design
* Multi-point ventilation

This is exactly the kind of transparent information SHARP provides – independent performance data riders can trust.

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⭐ 4. MIPS: What It Is and Why It Matters

MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) is designed to reduce rotational forces on the brain during angled impacts – the most common type of crash scenario.

What MIPS does:

* Adds a low-friction slip layer inside the helmet
* Allows slight movement between helmet and head
* Reduces rotational energy transfer to the brain
* Provides additional protection beyond standard certification

**What the yellow MIPS sticker means:**

* The helmet includes the MIPS slip-plane system
* It has passed MIPS internal testing
* It offers enhanced rotational protection

It is not a replacement for ECE or SHARP ratings — it is an additional layer of safety.

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⭐ 5. How to Try On a Helmet Properly

A helmet can only protect you if it fits correctly.

When trying one on:

*Measure your head with a soft tape measure
* Try multiple sizes and brands as they all vary
* Fasten the strap and perform a roll test (try to roll forward and twist side to side)
* Wear it for 5 -10 minutes to check for pressure points
* Ensure cheek pads feel snug
* Check peripheral vision and stability for no wobble or lift

🔗 SHARP Helmet Fit Guide (YouTube)

🔗 SHARP Fitting Guide

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⭐ 6. Signs of a Poor Fit

A helmet is unsafe if:

* You can pull it off without undoing the strap
* It rotates easily when pushed from the back
* It causes pain within minutes
* It sits too high on the head
* The chin strap cannot be tightened securely
* You can fit more than two fingers between your forehead and the padding

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⭐ 7. What to Look for When Buying This Winter

Whether you’re shopping in late-winter sales or preparing for spring:

* ECE 22.06 (current standard) or 22.05 certification
* A strong SHARP rating
* MIPS or similar rotational protection systems
* Good build quality
* No damaged packaging
* Avoid unknown brands at suspiciously low prices
* Never buy second-hand helmets as internal damage may be invisible
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⭐ 8. BMF Motorcycle Rider Magazine & Helmet Features

Spring 2025 Edition – Ruroc Helmets
Exploring Ruroc’s design evolution, safety performance and rider feedback.

Summer 2025 Edition — “The Best Motorcycle Helmets to Buy in 2025”
Covering:

* The impact of ECE 22.06
* The rise of MIPS and similar systems
* SHARP’s newest test results
* Strong performers across different budgets

🟢 Both editions of Motorcycle Rider magazine are available online.
🔗 Click here for all issues

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⭐ 9. Recent Strong SHARP Performers

Recent test data highlights strong performers including:

* Arai Concept-XE ★★★★
* Roof Boxxer 2 ★★★★
* Scorpion EXO-491 ★★★

From the SHARP archive:

* LS2 Dragon Carbon
* Bell Lithium
* ByCity Rider

🔗 Always check for the latest ratings directly at: Sharp

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⭐ 10. Staying Updated in 2026

* Bookmark SHARP’s website
* Follow SHARP on Facebook and Instagram
* Read Motorcycle Rider magazine
* Follow BMF social channels
* Contact BMF with concerns:
📧 admin@bmf.co.uk
📧 max@bmf.co.uk

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⭐ 11. Want Motorcycle Rider Magazine Delivered to You?

Become a BMF member and receive:

* Three issues per year of Motorcycle Rider magazine
* Full online access
* Exclusive member benefits
* Training, events and safety resources
* Support for national rider-rights campaigning

👉 Join the BMF: Click here

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⭐ Final Message

As we move through February and begin preparing for the riding season ahead, now is the time to check your kit.

A helmet is the one piece of equipment that must never be chosen on price alone.

A bargain is only a bargain if it can save a life.

Written by MJ

Top image courtesy of AI