What States Require Motorcycle Helmets?
Do you have to wear a helmet on a motorcycle in Oregon? Yes, Oregon requires all riders to wear a helmet at all times. Some states, like Wisconsin, only require helmets for riders aged 17 or younger. There are three states that have no motorcycle helmet requirements at all: Illinois, Iowa, and New Hampshire. Given the inherent risks of riding a motorcycle, plenty of riders elect to wear a helmet even when it’s not required.
What states require motorcycle helmets? Oregon certainly isn’t alone on this one! Residents of these states must also wear a helmet at all times:
- Alabama
- California
- Louisiana
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Mississippi
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Jersey
- New York
- North Carolina
- Oregon
- Tennessee
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
Where To Buy Motorcycle Helmets Near Portland
Shopping at a certified Harley-Davidson dealership like our own can make your helmet search much easier! We only carry DOT-approved helmets and our team is happy to assist you with finding the right size and style.
What is a DOT-approved motorcycle helmet? These helmets have passed stringent tests set by the U.S. Department of Transportation:
- Impact – Shock-absorbing capacity
- Penetration – Ability to withstand a blow from a sharp object
- Retention – Chin strap’s ability to stay fastened without stretching or breaking
- Peripheral Vision – Minimum side vision of 105 degrees on each side
How to Measure For a Motorcycle Helmet
The first step to finding the right helmet is to find your size. You can do this in a few minutes by wrapping a soft tape measure around your head. Place the tape measure about a half-inch above your ears and eyebrows and around the back of your head at the widest point.
How Should a Motorcycle Helmet Fit?
When it comes to staying safe on Albany’s fastest highways, suiting up in the proper gear is just as important as maintaining your bike. You may be able to find cheaper helmets online, but the only way you can tell if a helmet really fits is to try it on. In general, you’re looking for something that feels fairly tight, yet isn’t a struggle to put on (it’ll loosen up over time). The correct position for the eye port is just above your eyebrows.
Do Motorcycle Helmets Expire?
Yes, helmets do wear out—you might say “expire” —even when you don’t use them. The expanded polystyrene liner, as well as other components, can degrade over time. However, exactly how long are motorcycle helmets good for does depend on how often they’re used.
How long are motorcycle helmets good if you ride a lot? If you hit the road in Lebanon every day, you’re looking at a life span of about five years. A helmet degrades over time as it’s exposed to hair and body oil, and by being pulled on and off your head. A cheaper helmet made with lower-quality materials will also degrade more quickly than a high-quality helmet.
Shop Genuine Harley Gear & Accessories at Timber Town Harley-Davidson
Questions about how long motorcycle helmets are good for, helmet laws, or how a motorcycle helmet should fit? Our team is here to help! Shop for your genuine H-D gear online or stop by our Salem dealership and learn how to measure for a motorcycle helmet with our experts.