First SHARP Motorcycle Helmet Rating System Helmets Listed

June 12, 2008 - The SHARP (Safety Helmet and Assessment Rating Programme) safety standard rating system for motorcycle helmets is now up and running and the first 56 helmets have been listed.

Road Safety Minister Jim Fitzpatrick estimates that 50 lives per year could be saved if motorcyclists use the list to choose the highest rated helmets.

Ratings for 56 of the most popular full-face helmets on the market were published after testing by SHARP, which was developed by the Department for Transport last year.

Although some questions remain -- and some of the motorcycle helmet manufacturers have questioned the testing methodology and the results -- it's always good for motorcyclists to have another data point to help choose helmets that have the potential of offering high levels of protection.