Helmet Racing Design

Why Customize a Helmet?

Serious racers constantly are looking to establish themselves in the eyes of potential fans. In doing so, they often invest in custom-made leather suits and painted helmets to promote their personality. This promotes an easily recognizable image while on the track, something that a large portion of a successful racer's fan base will try to emulate. Even though not all motorcyclists are racers, a custom-painted helmet can provide that extra touch of ownership to a motorcycle.

For those of you who may be looking for a more traditional approach to racing designs, there are quite a few options. Racing stripes, checkered flags, flames and stars have been featured on helmets for years. Racing stripes and checkered patterns are best utilized by running them across the length of the helmet, from the chin bar up and over the top of the helmet. Likewise, flames and stars look great alongside the visor and chin bar. The back of the helmet is often reserved for a special image or the racer's name and racing numbers.

Moving away from the traditional racing schemes, many racers have begun using symbols and images borrowed from their particular culture and even popular media. Japanese anime (animation) has influenced several rider's helmets (and some helmet manufacturers, such as Icon and KBC) in recent years. Skulls-and-crossbones motifs have been made popular as well, crossing over from what was once cruiser domain to mainstream racing.

When designing a helmet motif, let your personality decide what your final design will look like. What traits stand out strongest in your own mind? Are there particular items or symbols that stand out in your daily life? If you can't think of any, research the helmets worn by your favorite racers and take elements that you like most for your own design. Using Kentucky-born Nicky Hayden's 2005 helmet as an example, Hayden took first place in the first Moto GP race held in the United States in more than a decade. His helmet for this event was a blend of team colors, personal taste (urban camouflage) and American pride.