To store a sidecar helmet when parked, lock it to the outfit with a helmet lock, put it in a locked top box or pannier if it fits, or take it with you, and never leave it loose on the seat where it can roll off or be picked up. In general terms, the best storage is the one that keeps the helmet secure, dry, and out of the sun, while keeping it easy to reach when you set off again.
Helmet storage is a practical problem for sidecar riders, because the outfit is open and there is often no built-in storage for a helmet. A helmet left loose on the sidecar seat can roll off and crack, it can be stolen in seconds, and it can fill with rain. This guide explains the options and how to choose between them.
Where Can You Store a Helmet on a Sidecar Outfit?
The simplest option is a helmet lock, which lets you lock the helmet to the motorcycle or the sidecar frame by its strap or D-ring. Many motorcycles have a factory helmet lock under the seat, and aftermarket locks can be fitted to the frame or handlebars. A locked helmet is secure against casual theft, though a determined thief can cut most cables, so a lock is best for short stops rather than for leaving a helmet all day.
A second option is a top box or pannier, if the outfit has one and the helmet fits inside. A top box keeps the helmet dry, out of the sun, and out of sight, which is the best protection against both weather and theft. Not every helmet fits in every top box, so it is worth checking the size before you buy, and a large full-face helmet may need a larger box than a small open-face one. Some sidecar outfits have storage space in the sidecar itself, under the seat or in the nose, which can hold a helmet if the space is big enough.
Is It Safe to Leave a Helmet in the Sidecar?
Leaving a helmet loose in the sidecar tub is the least safe option. The sidecar is open, so the helmet is visible and easy to pick up, and a helmet sitting in the tub can roll around, fall out, or fill with rain. If you must leave a helmet in the sidecar, lock it to the outfit with a cable or a helmet lock, and cover it with a waterproof bag or a helmet cover to keep rain off.
Sun is another concern. A helmet left in direct sun for hours can heat up, and the sun can fade the shell and weaken the lining over time. If you park in the sun, put the helmet in the shade if you can, or cover it. And never leave a helmet on the ground, where it can be kicked, run over, or filled with dirt. A helmet on the ground is also easy to steal, and it picks up grit that can scratch the shell.
What About Storing a Helmet at Home?
At home, a helmet should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sun and away from chemicals such as petrol, solvents, or cleaning products, which can damage the shell and the lining. A shelf in a garage or a cupboard is ideal, and the helmet should sit upright on a flat surface, not hanging by its strap, which can stretch the strap and distort the lining.
Let the helmet dry fully before storing it, especially after a wet or sweaty ride, because a damp helmet stored in a closed box can develop mould or a bad smell. Remove any communication headset or speakers before washing the lining, and let the lining dry before putting the helmet away. A helmet bag can protect the shell from scratches, but make sure the helmet is dry before you put it in the bag, and do not store a helmet in a sealed plastic bag, which traps moisture.
How Do You Carry a Spare Helmet for a Passenger?
If you regularly carry a passenger, you may need to carry a spare helmet as well as your own. A spare helmet can be carried in a top box or pannier, in a helmet bag strapped to the sidecar, or in a net or bungee on the rear rack. Whatever you use, make sure the helmet is held securely and cannot fall off or swing into the wheel, and that it does not block your view or the lights.
A helmet bag with a carry handle is useful, because it protects the spare helmet and makes it easy to carry when you are off the outfit. If you use a bungee net, check that it holds the helmet firmly and that the hooks cannot scratch the shell. And if you are choosing accessories for your helmet, reading about what MIPS is for helmets can help you understand the safety features inside the helmets you are carrying, so you can look after them properly.
What Should You Check Before Riding Off?
Before you set off, check that the helmet is in good condition: look for cracks in the shell, wear on the strap, and damage to the lining or the visor. Check that the helmet lock or storage is secure, and that you have not left anything behind. If the helmet has been stored in a top box, check that the box is closed and locked, and that the helmet has not shifted in a way that could block the lid.
Make a habit of checking the helmet each time you store it and each time you take it out. A quick look for damage, a check that the strap works, and a check that the visor is clean takes only a moment, and it can catch a problem before it becomes a safety issue. A helmet is your main protection, so looking after it, and storing it well, is worth the small effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I leave my helmet on the sidecar seat while I go into a shop?
A: In general terms, it is better not to. A helmet left loose on the seat can roll off and crack, or be picked up in seconds. Lock it to the outfit or take it with you, even for a short stop.
Q: Will a helmet fit in a motorcycle top box?
A: Many do, but it depends on the size of the box and the helmet. A large full-face helmet needs a larger box than a small open-face helmet, so check the measurements before you buy a box for helmet storage.
Q: Is it okay to hang a helmet by its strap for storage?
A: No, hanging a helmet by its strap can stretch the strap and distort the lining over time. Store the helmet upright on a flat surface in a cool, dry place, away from direct sun.
Olivia
Writer at Helmet Today, covering helmet reviews, fit and riding safety.
