Motorcycle helmets and MSA

[jezmilligan]

I've been using a good quality motorcycle helmet for track days - a Shoei Raid which is E4 certified and certified for motorcycle racing.

Went to my first sprint recently to be told by the scrutineer that it isnt authorised by MSA since it doesnt have BS6658 certification.

My local motorcycle shop reccons the E4 classification superceeds BS.

Surely a helmet which is classified for motorcycle racing should pass MSA safety levels?  

Is there any way round this, otherwise I'll be spending another £100 on a helmet which is of lower quality helmet than my track day one?

Are MSA just slow in areas like this, or is there a valid safety issue (I cant think of one!

[scott beeland]

At the moment you've gotta have BS6658 TYPE A approval kitemark sticker. Most newer helmets via bike suppliers are new ECE-22 standard (which as yet is not accepted by MSA but ok for bike racing).I have just been through this with a new HJC lid. This is now properly registered/ stickered with BS 6658 and passes with the scrutineers. I believe some Snell Sstandard lids are ok. Refer to your blue book. oh and buy another lid      

[Blatman]

looky here...

[guy g]

It's often to do with fireproofing.

All helmets approved for car racing must have a flame retardent lining and the standards listed by the MSA all include that requirement - bike helmets don't have to for obvious reasons.

So before you start moaning about scrutineers and the MSA just bear that in mind.

Seems like sensible trackday organisers are cottoning on too.

[Mark Stanton]

cottoning on too.

or maybe nomexing on    

What price can you put on safety - most MSA events carry something like £25 mill insurance, treat yourself to the approved gear.

that'll be my coat by the door then    

[Blatman]

bike helmets don't have to for obvious reasons.

Good point. I use "bike" helmets, but I always wear a Nomex balaclava too.....