[ace]

I am asking this particularly to James Leong or any of the organiser of RMC malaysia but of course, anyone can answer.

In the CIK regulations for next year, it is said that it will be mandatory for racers under 15 years of age to use the Snell CMR regulated helmets (Bell KC3-CMR or Arai CK6). I think most parents of under 15s would appreciate it if you can tell us if this regulation will be enforced for RMC next year.

[James Leong]

Personally as well as with the Karting Commission of Malaysia, we have been informed on the CIK move to have those drivers under 15 years to have the helmets as stated by Ace. I personally would agree that parents should get this helmet for their children. Like with all legislatures we normally give ample time for the drivers to get the correct gear. For 2010, all racing suits MUST be level 2 and homologated. Racing shoes have to cover the ankle and does not have any holes in the sole as well as on the sides.

If we also implement the helmet for 2010 it will cost the parents a whole lot of money. But that does not meant that I do not want to implement the new helmets. This new helmet will be enforced in 2011 so that it will give time for the drivers to get them. At the moment these helmets are not available locally and has to be sourced out of Malaysia. The present helmet ruling is quite adequate as now the drivers are using approved helmets for their races. The new helmets for young drivers will be better since they are lighter and made for them. I would encourage the young drivers to get this helmet if possible for 2010 but otherwise this ruling will be enforced in 2011.

I would also want to help those who intend to get this helmet. If those who are interested in getting this helmet let me know their sizes, I will try to get them in from Japan collectively in one shipment at cost. Please email me if you want to do it.

James Leong

[Iceman27]

A necessary 'evil' to improve the professionalism & safety of the sport... to the detriment of the pocket... hahaha!!!

Kudos to James & the commission for giving participants time to 'save up' for the new helmets!

Cheers!

[JohnKing6]

I bring in HJC helmets so I checked with them on what they have available.

B2-RZ-31 Youth
Lightweight Fiberglass Shell. Under 1,330 Grams (2.9lbs)
Shorter Shell. Protect against Neck and Collar Bone Injuries
Advanced Aerodynamics
Tear Off Posts Installed
Plush Interior W/ Removable Cheek Pads
SE3 Visor Brake System
Chin and Scalp Vents for Maximum Ventilation
Meets or Exceeds Snell CMR2007

Size available 54/56/58/59cm

Cost in Malaysia will be RM2100 so expensive, the HJC AR10 is only rm1400 and AR11 is RM1700.

If anyone is interested, I'll bring a couple in with my next order from HJC.

[Iceman27]

I bring in HJC helmets so I checked with them on what they have available.

B2-RZ-31 Youth
Cost in Malaysia will be RM2100 so expensive, the HJC AR10 is only rm1400 and AR11 is RM1700.

I know we shouldn't put a price tag on safety... especially that of our children... but that's awfully expensive.

Cheers!

[JohnKing6]

I know it's expensive. My advice is to wait until they become more common to replace existing SA2005 helmets - the prices will come down. The only problem will be for people that need a new one now - you might as well buy one of these.

[Iceman27]

Hi John,
Isn't the CM2007 certification only applicable for children/youths? The new standard for auto/kart (adults) is SA2010 right?

Hi James,
What's the headgear homoglation required for sanctioned events?

Cheers!

[James Leong]

Presently the helmets allowed will have to be with the SNELL SA2000 (minimum) or BS, SFR standards. There are now available SNELL SA2005 approvals which will carry through to 2015. The Snell SA2000 will expire at the end of 2010.

For all Zone sanctioned events, helmets with SNELL, BS or SFR will be allowed. Events like WSK, WKC and all formal CIK events will have stricter checks on safety gear. We are trying to standardise all the safety gear to that of CIK. However, in view of the costs involved we are putting each introduction of a new gear with ample warning to the drivers. This is to give them time for the changeover.

Presently most drivers have approved helmets. This is a good sign that drivers are beginning to understand the need for a good protective helmet. From my years of scrutineering, I still come across drivers who regard their helmets as just something they needed to have because of the regulations. I have seen helmets so badly looked after that I just wonder how they can continue using it.

A major concern for us would be the painting of the helmet. We are not able to ascertain if the paintwork have been done by someone competent as well as the type of material used. The onus is very much on the driver to make sure that they know what have been used on their helmet.

James Leong

[Iceman27]

Thanks James for the detailed explaination. It is most appreciated.

Cheers!