Riding a motorcycle can be exhilarating, but the noise generated by the wind and engine can be bothersome. Fortunately, there are several hacks to make your motorcycle helmet quieter. By reducing noise, you can enhance your riding experience and protect your hearing.
Pro Tip: I highly recommend wearing earplugs regardless of the helmet brand you have, be it Shoei, AGV, or Nolan. As an experienced motorcyclist, I can attest to the significant benefits of earplugs in reducing wind and engine noise. Even the quietest helmets may still allow some noise to penetrate, which can lead to hearing damage and fatigue during long rides. By wearing earplugs, you not only protect your hearing but also enhance your overall riding experience by reducing fatigue and allowing you to focus on the road ahead.
- Hacks to Make a Motorcycle Helmet Quieter
- 1. Get Quietest Motorcycle Helmets
- 2. Upgrade the Helmet Padding and Liners
- 3. Install a Windscreen and Visor
- 4. Helmet Ventilation
- 5. Helmet Modifications
- 6. Earplugs and Noise-Canceling Headsets
- 7. Helmet Accessories
- 8. Regular Maintenance and Inspection
- 9. Riding Techniques for Noise Reduction
- 10. Check the Helmet Fit
- 11. Neck Gaiter
- 12. Helmet Skirt
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Why is my motorcycle helmet noisy?
- Q: Are there any specific helmet models known for being quieter?
- Q: Can I install aftermarket accessories to reduce helmet noise?
- Q: Is there any maintenance required to keep my helmet quieter?
- Q: Can earplugs help reduce helmet noise?
- Q: Does the helmet’s visor affect noise levels?
- Q: Can windscreen adjustments on my motorcycle affect helmet noise?
- Q: Is there a specific way to test helmet noise levels before purchasing?
- Conclusion
Hacks to Make a Motorcycle Helmet Quieter
1. Get Quietest Motorcycle Helmets
The first step to a quieter helmet is selecting the best helmet. Look for helmets specifically designed for noise reduction. These helmets often feature aerodynamic designs, wind deflectors, and noise-reducing padding. Additionally, ensure that the helmet fits properly to minimize unwanted noise.
2. Upgrade the Helmet Padding and Liners
The padding and liners inside your helmet play a crucial role in noise reduction. Opt for helmets with high-quality padding materials that can absorb and dampen sound. Consider replacing old or worn-out padding to maintain optimum noise reduction performance.
3. Install a Windscreen and Visor
The windscreen and visor of your helmet can significantly affect noise levels. A well-designed windscreen can redirect airflow and reduce turbulence, thereby decreasing noise. Installing wind deflectors can further minimize wind noise and improve overall helmet quietness.
4. Helmet Ventilation
Balancing ventilation and noise reduction is essential for a comfortable ride. While proper ventilation is crucial for airflow, excessive vents can contribute to increased noise levels. Consider using noise-reducing vent covers to maintain a quieter helmet while still allowing sufficient airflow. Don’t forget to check the helmet material.
5. Helmet Modifications
If you’re looking for additional noise reduction, consider modifying your helmet. Adding soundproofing materials, such as foam or acoustic liners, to the interior can absorb and dampen noise. Customizing your helmet with noise-reducing modifications can further enhance its overall quietness.
6. Earplugs and Noise-Canceling Headsets
Earplugs are most commonly used and suggested by all senior riders. Using earplugs is a simple yet effective way to reduce noise inside your helmet. Earplugs help to block out wind and engine noise, providing a quieter riding experience. Alternatively, you can invest in noise-canceling headsets that actively eliminate or reduce external noise while allowing you to listen to music or receive calls.
7. Helmet Accessories
Several accessories can aid in reducing helmet noise. Installing a chin curtain can minimize wind noise entering from the bottom of the helmet. Breath guards can help redirect your breath away from the visor, reducing internal noise. Additionally, helmet silencers can be attached to vents to decrease noise levels further.
8. Regular Maintenance and Inspection
Proper maintenance is essential for optimal helmet performance. Helmet must be DOT approved and ECE certified. Regularly clean the helmet components, including the padding and visor, to ensure they are free from dirt and debris that can contribute to increased noise. Additionally, inspect the helmet for loose parts and tighten them as necessary to minimize rattling noises.
9. Riding Techniques for Noise Reduction
Your riding technique can also influence helmet noise levels. Positioning your head and body in a way that maximizes wind flow can help reduce turbulence and associated noise. Avoiding excessive speed and riding in turbulent areas can further contribute to a quieter riding experience.
10. Check the Helmet Fit
Proper helmet fit is crucial for both safety and noise reduction. Use a flexible tape measure to measure the circumference of your head, just above your eyebrows and ears. This helps to fit the helmet correctly. Put the helmet on and fasten the chin strap securely. The helmet should sit snugly on your head without causing any pressure points or discomfort. It should not be too tight or too loose. Perform a few fit tests to ensure the helmet is the right size for you.
Remember, a properly fitted helmet not only enhances safety but also contributes to noise reduction.
11. Neck Gaiter
A neck gaiter can be a useful accessory for reducing helmet noise and enhancing comfort. Opt for a neck gaiter made of a soft and breathable fabric, such as microfiber or moisture-wicking material. Avoid thick or rough fabrics that may cause discomfort. Place the neck gaiter around your neck. Ensure it sits snugly without obstructing your vision or restricting your breathing. This can help prevent wind and noise from entering through the bottom of the helmet. By wearing a neck gaiter, you can create an additional barrier against wind and noise, resulting in a quieter and more enjoyable riding experience.
12. Helmet Skirt
A helmet skirt is a specialized accessory designed to reduce wind noise and airflow underneath your helmet. Look for a helmet skirt specifically designed for your helmet model or one that offers universal compatibility. Ensure it is made from high-quality materials that provide a secure fit. Carefully attach the helmet skirt to the bottom edge of your helmet, ensuring that it covers the entire circumference. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation Once the helmet skirt is properly installed, take your motorcycle for a ride. Pay attention to the reduction in wind noise and the difference in airflow around your neck and face.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is my motorcycle helmet noisy?
Motorcycle helmets can be noisy due to various factors, such as wind turbulence, poor aerodynamics, gaps or vents that allow air to enter, or loose-fitting parts.
Q: Are there any specific helmet models known for being quieter?
While noise levels can vary based on individual factors, there are helmet models known for their quieter performance. Some popular options include the Shoei Neotec II, Schuberth C4 Pro, and Arai Signet-X.
Q: Can I install aftermarket accessories to reduce helmet noise?
Yes, there are several aftermarket accessories available that can help reduce helmet noise. These include wind blockers, wind deflectors, chin curtains, and noise-canceling helmet inserts. Consult with a reputable motorcycle gear retailer for suitable options for your helmet model.
Q: Is there any maintenance required to keep my helmet quieter?
Yes, proper maintenance can contribute to a quieter helmet. Ensure that all parts are securely fastened and tightened. Regularly clean and lubricate helmet mechanisms like visor hinges to prevent unnecessary vibrations and noise.
Q: Can earplugs help reduce helmet noise?
Yes, wearing earplugs can significantly reduce wind noise and overall noise levels while riding. Foam or silicone earplugs designed for motorcycling can effectively block out excessive noise without compromising situational awareness.
Q: Does the helmet’s visor affect noise levels?
The visor can contribute to wind noise if it does not seal properly. Ensure that the visor is correctly installed, seals tightly against the helmet, and is not loose or misaligned.
Q: Can windscreen adjustments on my motorcycle affect helmet noise?
Yes, the windscreen’s height and angle can affect wind turbulence and subsequently impact helmet noise. Experiment with different windscreen positions to find the one that minimizes turbulence and noise.
Q: Is there a specific way to test helmet noise levels before purchasing?
While it may not be possible to test helmet noise levels thoroughly before purchase, you can research customer reviews, check for noise reduction features, and seek recommendations from experienced riders to find quieter helmet options.
Conclusion
In conclusion, making your motorcycle helmet quieter is achievable with these 12 hacks. By selecting the right helmet, optimizing its components, and implementing additional noise reduction measures, you can enjoy a more peaceful and comfortable ride. Remember to prioritize your safety and hearing while experiencing the thrill of motorcycling.
