Half helmets offer least protection. riders weigh options
Some see Half helmets as reckless while others claim they're the only way to cut down the weight of their open face helmet. Either way, the Yesmotor Hawk Half shell helmet has become a point of contention in the debate. As an affordable alternative that offers a classic look without the mushroom cap silhouette that many of its budget competitors display, it has earned 4.6 stars based on more than 1000 amazon reviews. Clearly, that speaks volumes.
Build Quality and Safety
the Yesmotor Hawk's rugged ABS plastic shell utilizes the same type of materials used in most beginner helmets. While it's not unique, the inside of the helmet features an impact absorbing EPS foam lining. This is the basic formula. It has been successful for years. As part of compliance with federal regulations, the helmet bears the DOT sticker signifying that it adhered to federal motor vehicle safety standards #218 for impact absorption and penetration resistance. To put this simply, a DOT sticker is the absolute minimum required for using a helmet legally on public roads in the u.s. The fact that some manufacturers may slap the DOT sticker on their less expensive helmets without actual testing raises legitimate concerns. In response to these fears, one amazon reviewer stated it clearly: “some makers slap the DOT sticker on regardless, but in any case better than nothing, works for slow riding.” A low-profile beanie style eliminates the bulky mushroom-shaped appearance of lesser quality Half shells. With its sleeker shape, it complements older cruisers and choppers. A quick release buckle on the chin strap allows for rapid removal and installation. The inner padding is also removable and washable – a feature that is essential for any helmet you plan to wear frequently.
Comfort and Fit
one area in which this helmet excels is in its incredibly light weight. At approximately three pounds, this helmet weighs substantially less than a helmet with a face shield, one rider with a history of neck problems explained that he had previously attempted wearing a three-quarter helmet with a face shield, however it caused excessive pressure on his neck. Conversely, this helmet eliminated those concerns entirely due to its lighter weight and lower profile. Reduced neck fatigue translates into increased comfort during extended periods spent casually riding.
According to both the manufacturer’s measurements and several buyers’ reports, sizing runs true to the charts provided by the manufacturer. Additionally, it extends through XL – a welcome relief for larger riders who struggle finding Half-shells large enough to accommodate their head sizes, one of several five-star reviewers with an 8-inch hat commented, “finally a helmet that fits my Size eight head as advertised.” another rider, whose hat measured 7 5/8 inches stated that he tested the helmet on a dynamometer at 90mph and experienced zero movement. He further clarified that the helmet fitted snugly and needed break-in time prior to being comfortably worn. Many reviewers have expressed similar sentiments regarding fitting. A Half-shell helmet will naturally fit snug if it is properly sized. If it moves excessively at higher speeds, it indicates that you have purchased a helmet that is too small for your head Size.
Additionally, the ability to remove and wash the inner padding increases comfort. Sweat buildup occurs with continued use. Similarly, dirt accumulation creates unpleasant odors and potentially compromises hygiene. Tossing the removable inner padding in the washing machine maintains cleanliness and hygiene throughout the life of your helmet.
What Amazon Reviewers Are Saying
the Yesmotor Hawk has garnered an overwhelming number of reviews – over 1030 at present – and carries an average of 4.6 stars. The consensus among reviewers is generally positive with some common characteristics repeated by multiple reviewers that are important to know prior to making a purchase decision. William Jens, 5 stars: jens admitted that while he questioned whether some manufacturers slapped DOT stickers on budget helmets without adequate testing, he still believed “better than nothing,” and it performed adequately for slow speed riding. Jens acknowledges this helmet is not suitable for high-speed riding. Jens was not suggesting that this helmet is capable of providing sufficient protection for high-speed activities. Angel Higuera, 5 stars: higuera purchased this helmet for casual riding (slow speed) on his Harley-davidson bagger in extreme heat in California. He concluded: “excellent for that application, would not wear at highway speed.” this statement gives you a clear idea of where this helmet excels. Low speed riding only. VTX, 5 stars: VTX states his hat measures 7 5/8 inches. After trying on the helmet, he reached 90mph on a dynamometer with zero movement. VTX further clarified that the helmet fits snugly and requires break-in time prior to becoming comfortable. Although VTX conducted his testing in a controlled environment (dyno), rather than on public highways, he indicated that this supported the notion that the helmet remains securely in place when properly fitted. amazon customer, 4 stars: a customer suffering from neck injuries desired a very lightweight helmet. A three-quarter helmet with a full shield placed pressure on his neck. Conversely, this Half shell did not cause him any discomfort. Chris Hudson, 5 stars: chris has an 8-inch head and had difficulty locating Half shells that were large enough. He wrote: “at last a helmet that fits Size 8 head, fit as described and comfortable.” large heads will appreciate the fact that this is one of the few budget Half-shells available in larger sizes. There are some riders who indicate that they feel that the sizing is snug when new and require break-in time. Some reviewers have also suggested that additional thickness would provide better support for the padding inside the helmet.
Who Is This Helmet For?
This helmet is ideal for riders seeking limited coverage along with maximum comfort while engaging in low-speed cruising. Vintage-style cruisers and bobbers lend themselves well to this type of helmet, the Yesmotor Hawk is perfect for running errands around town on warmer days or simply enjoying a leisurely cruise. It gets the job done!
That being said, here is an important caveat. Half-shells are currently the least protected helmets allowed under law. Therefore your jawline, chin, ears and face are fully exposed at all times when wearing a Half shell. Wind-blast from highway travel causes intense buffeting. Debris such as branches, rocks, etc., are directed straight at your face. Bugs and rain also pelt your face unobstructed. Multiple reviewers were explicit, if you ride above 45 or 50 mph on a regular basis, choose either a full face or modular helmet instead.
Multiple reviewers questioned whether manufacturers' enforcement of DOT standards exists on products such as this at this price level. The NHTSA motorcycle safety guidelines detail safety standards for helmets including DOT certification. however NHTSA emphasizes self-testing by manufacturers rather than enforced testing protocols.
You have to be truthful with yourself about how much you are going to risk taking with this helmet. This is an acceptable option for casual cruising at slower speeds. It is not acceptable as a substitute for a full-face helmet traveling on highways.
Visit gomotorbikes.com blog for information on other affordable helmets. View our comparison guide comparing various styles of motorcycle helmets including Half-shells.
Want to compare it against other lids? The motorcycle helmet comparison table lists what we have reviewed, and the blog covers more gear guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What riders ask before ordering a half shell like this.
Does the Yesmotor Hawk Half Shell Helmet Carry DOT Certification?
Yes -- as evidence of adherence to federal motor vehicle safety standard #218 for impact absorption and penetration resistance the Yesmotor Hawk Half shell helmet displays a DOT sticker indicating compliance with federal regulation requirements.
How far Do Head Sizes Go On the Yesmotor Hawk?
Sizes range through XL so head circumferences extending through approximately 62cm (a Size 8 hat) are accommodated, one reviewer verified that it fits as claimed on an 8-inch hat.
What weight Classifies As Light Weight for the Yesmotor Hawk Half Shell Helmet?
Approximately three pounds classifies as lightweight for this helmet compared to other types of helmets such as full-face shields or three quarter shields weighing substantially heavier. The reduced weight results in reduced neck strain resulting in increased comfort during prolonged casual riding periods.
Can the Inner Padding Of the Yesmotor Hawk Be Washed and Cleaned?
Yes -- the removable inner padding can be washed and cleaned thereby maintaining cleanliness and hygiene during usage.
Is the Yesmotor Hawk Safe Enough for Highway Travel?
Absolutely not -- almost every reviewer commenting upon speed explicitly warned against operating this helmet at greater than slow-speeds citing exposure to your face/jawline/chin/ears due to lack of protection from Debris/wind/bugs/rain/etc at highway speeds.