new SHARP helmet ratings

[Indy Dave]

I got an update email from SHARP this morning:

 

SHARP has published ratings for another 28 motorcycle helmets.

 

 

The ratings include 23 full face and 5 flip-front models, taking the total number of helmets rated by SHARP to 247.

 

 

A full list of the ratings is available now at http://sharp.direct.gov.uk/ .

 

The SHARP scheme uses a wider range of tests to provide riders with more information on how much protection a helmet can provide in a crash. The objective advice, which includes guidance on how to select a good fitting helmet, will help riders to choose the safest helmet suitable for them.

 

We are still testing helmets and will be adding ratings on a rolling basis throughout 2011.

 

 

The SHARP tests - which award ratings of between one and five stars - show that the safety performance of helmets can vary by as much as 70%. With helmets across a wide price range scoring highly all riders should be able to find a high performing helmet in a size and style that fits them and at a price they want to pay.

 

 

 

The SHARP website was re-developed in response to feedback from motorcyclists and the motorcycle industry and has increased in popularity since it was re-launched last summer. The SHARP website can be found at: www.direct.gov.uk/sharp.

 

Motorcyclists represent approximately 1% of UK traffic yet account for 21% of our casualty base; 472 motorcyclists died on UK roads in 2009. Accident studies show that approximately 80% of motorcyclists killed and 70% of those with serious injuries sustain head injuries.