Motorsports are extremely dangerous.
So, it’s imperative to protect yourself as much as possible at all times, with safety being the top priority.
Ever wonder if these helmets differ?
Motorsport helmets differ in their designs and function, even though they all protect the head.
A go-kart helmet differs significantly from a motorcycle helmet. Go-kart helmets require Snell K certification, while motorcycle helmets require Snell M certification.
Motorcycle helmets have completely different aerodynamics, impact tests, designs, and features than go-kart helmets, similar to auto racing helmets. Here’s a closer look at these differences.
Are motorcycle helmets and go-kart racing helmets the same?
It is the primary objective of both go-karts and motorcycle helmets to keep the driver’s/rider’s head protected. They may look similar, but they have a few key differences.
Certification
The latest helmet certification standard for go-kart racing helmets is Snell K2020. K2015 and K2010 are previous versions. The properties of these helmets are very similar to those of Snell SA (special application) helmets. It’s just that Snell K helmets can’t withstand fire.
In contrast, motorcycle helmets are certified by Snell M (motorcycles); the latest standard for motorcycle helmets is Snell M2020. Previously, M2015 and M2010 were available.
The Snell M and Snell K testing parameters may be similar, but they are different. In addition, they differ in their design and application, so their Snell certification falls under another category.
Testing
Before a helmet can be officially certified by the Snell Foundation, it must undergo rigorous testing. Based on their tests, Snell intends to determine the following four basic protective features:
- Impact Management – how well does it deal with collisions with objects
- Stability in position – the helmet’s ability to stay in place
- Holding Strength of the Helmet Straps – how well it holds the headgear
- Protection of the head – the degree to which it protects the head
Multiple tests insure accurate and effective measurement of each helmet’s properties. Here are the tests:
- Chin Bar Impact Test
- Chin Bar Rigidity Test
- Dynamic Retention Test
- Face Shield Penetration Test
- Frontal Head Restraint Test
- Impact Test
- Positional Stability Test
- Shell Penetration Test
There are various requirements for Snell K and Snell M helmets, as well as rigid testing requirements. Because both motorsports are different in nature, go-kart racers and motorcycle racers face different risks.
Riders of motorcycles and drivers of go-karts race from different positions. In addition to different impact angles, impact velocity would also differ in the helmet.
There are no roll bars on motorcycle helmets but go-karts, so both Snell SA and K helmets are multi-impact tested for roll bars. Thus, K and M helmets are tested using similar criteria, though subject to different requirements.
Fire Rating
Racing helmets must undergo fire tests. That’s because a burning car may trap its driver. Auto helmets have interior fabrics made of Nomex, a fire retardant material.
It also serves as a seal to keep flames out of the helmet by melting the rubber gasket around the eye-opening.
In contrast, motorcycle riders often crash into each other. Therefore, motorcycle helmets usually line with different kinds of nylon for their interior padding.
Design
Helmets for motorcycles and go-karts use different aerodynamic principles, as well as additional certification and testing standards. Their aerodynamics, designs, and features are different.
Both motorsports feature very different positions of the rider and driver when it comes to design. Go-kart racers sit upright and keep their bodies perpendicular to their bikes, while motorcycle racers keep their bodies as parallel as possible to their machines.
The helmet size, angle, and position are very different, as you can see from the images above.
The helmets used in go-kart racing have a rounded shape and a flat design, while helmets used in motorcycle racing have an angled design to accommodate the rider’s position.
Features
The motorcycle eye-port is typically larger than the helmet’s ventilation ports, contributing to cooling and air circulation. Accordingly, certification requirements for Snell K and Snell M also reflect this.
These helmets, unlike those used in auto racing, have features similar to karting helmets. Go-kart helmets usually feature Snell SA or K certification and threaded inserts to support Head and Neck safety devices (HANS). A motorcycle helmet, however, does support HANS.
Impact Absorption
Being hit by a car versus getting hit by a bike is very different. In addition to knocks, a motorcycle helmet also needs to contend with scratching from slipping. Instead, the head may hit the roll cage, steering wheel, or side window (if the car goes over) rather than slithering.
Aerodynamics
Aerodynamic designs and efficient air circulation are features of both motorcycle and go-kart helmets. Although the helmets are different in shape, you’ll notice subtle differences in riders’ seating because motorcycles and karts differ.
A go-kart helmet typically features a more rounded design, but motorcycle helmets often have sharper edges and more elongated rear sections.
Various motorcycle racing helmets have rear spoilers that reduce the helmet lift caused by changing body position and facilitate easier adjusting. A go-kart helmet does not have a rear spoiler, as the chassis itself has aerodynamical optimization for speed.
Final Thoughts
By now, you may know how motorcycle helmets and karting helmets differ in their construction and functionality.
It is crucial when buying one for your kart racing helmet regulation and your overall protection.
However, you must not forget that both serve the same purpose – to protect the riders during rides. Happy riding!
