Hey sorry for posting this in this section but it will get seen more than something posted in a local section. Anyways two questions.
1. I really want to go drag racing, but don't want to spend 300 dollars on a helmet since I don't have that money right now, so could someone point me in the direction of a non open faced helmet that is under 100? I've found some around 140 and if I have to pay that then I guess I will.
2. Does anyone in the Chicagoland area want to meet up and go to a track? I was thinking great lakes dragway, only because its the first one I found and maybe a tuesday or wednesday (only because I assume it would be less crowded).

Well thanks for the help and I hope at least one person will join me in popping my drag cherry.

 

Try calling the track first. Most of the larger tracks have a helmet rental. Something like 10-20 bucks and leave your license with them.

I would think Chicagoland has the same type of deal.

 

Hey Bobo, try this link out:

http://www.tonker.com/hjc_product_private.php

This is where I just bought my helmet last week. Free shipping on any order over $75. The helmet I recommend is the HJC CL-15. It is a quality helmet without the silly price tag. If you get it in a plain color it is $103. There are cheaper helemts on that link, but they are not Snell certified. Any IHRA or NHRA track requires Snell certification in addition to DOT certification.

If you get into the really fast cars, then they require the Snell SA certification (which is for auto racing and is fire retardant and can withstand impacts from roll cages). But you don't need to worry about that kind of helmet until you shave about 3 whole seconds off the SRT-6's quarter time.

Another nice feature of the HJC CL-15 helmet is that the face plate comes off with the press of two buttons and snaps back on. I prefer to take it off completely for racing, then put it back on when I stow it in it's carry bag.

Also, the HJC CL-15 includes a light carry bag with the helmet so that it doesn't get scratched up in transport. It's a good deal.

Lastly, I'll say unless you know for sure what size helmet you need, go to a motorcyle shop and try on a helmet. They'll help you find the right size. Then you'll know which one to order online. Guaranteed the motorcycle shop won't beat that website's price.

 

apkano, they do have rentals but although I'm not a germaphobe I do think wearing a rental helmet that has been worn by a bunch of guys sitting in hot cars would be a little gross. Thank you for the suggestion though.

Tom, thank you for the link and reminding me about getting sized, I was trying to figure out a place that would have some for me to try on and the whole idea of a motorcycle shop never popped into my head. There is a pretty big motorcycle shop by my house so I think I will stop by there tomorrow and find my size and then probably end up ordering the HJC CL-15 from that link. For a cheaper priced helmet it really doesnt look bad.

Still looking for someone to go racing with!

 

Good luck racing. Go show those ricers what German engineering can do!

 

You might look at KMC motorcycle helmets. They are very nice and very cheap for what they are. That, and they have some wicked cool graphic designs available.

 

cool; I just ordered a new helmet from tonker.com...................if anybody else gets one you can use coupon code "Ricks Rides" to get an additional discount.

 

Try ebay. I got mine around $80 bucks shipped. It is Snell 2005 rated, which will clear you on any track. It was new, no name brand with graphics. Came with a nice carrying pouch to store when not in use.

 

I've never had to wear a helmet for drag racing at any track I've been to... I've had to wear a helmet for autocross.... but the tracks I went to in CA don't seem to have that helmet rule....

Make sure that the tracks around you require a helmet... If so, it's time to make some new friends and ask to borrow their helmet.

 

If they are an NHRA sanctioned track they will require it if you run faster than 13.50 seconds in the quarter mile. I'm not sure at what time restrictions 1/8 mile tracks will require.

 

In that case, just run the car without a helmet, and worry about it later... The worst that can happen is they kick you off the track, and to be honest, that's a badge of honor for most people.

Besides, since it's your first time out, your first run will probably leave plenty of room for improvement. It'll take a few runs before you get a decent feel for launching the car and not bogging or spinning the tires, not to mention playing with tire pressures, etc. The important thing is to go out there and have fun, no matter what time you run.