The highly anticipated SHARP (Safety Helmet Assessment and Rating Programme) test results were released today by the Department for Transport, with very positive results for French helmet manufacturer, Shark.
The top-of-the-range Shark RSR2 (rrp from £319.99) - as worn by top racers like Troy Corser, Randy de Puniet and Leon Camier - scored a maximum five stars, while the RSI (rrp from £199.99), the RSF2i (rrp from £159.99), the S800 (rrp £149.99) and the S500 (rrp from £114.99) all scored a very impressive four-star rating.
The SHARP programme was launched at the International Motorcycle Show at the NEC last November with an assertion to "enable riders to more easily select a helmet which matches their needs. It will provide consumers with an independent assessment of the safety performance of helmets sold in the UK."
Robert Culverwell, Managing Director of Shark UK, commented: "We're obviously delighted with the results. Shark fully supports the DfT's work to improve motorcyclists' safety and we feel the results reflect the massive research and development programme that Shark puts into every model."
"The rating system makes it much more simple for the consumer to work out which helmets have impact performance levels over and above the minimum requirement of ECE 22-05," he added, "and we are extremely happy that Shark as a brand has come through the tests with flying colours. What I’m particularly happy about is the consistency of Shark’s ratings. Looking at the results this morning it appears some brands have inconsistent scores. Shark products at both ends of the price range score well and that reflects well on Shark as a safety helmet manufacturer”
Shark will be adopting the SHARP logo on all point-of-sale material and helmet packaging to help consumers make an informed choice when purchasing their most important piece of motorcycling safety equipment.
Shark's Dealer Training Manager and Racing co-ordinator, Mark Eilledge, was equally satisfied with the initial results, saying: "I've spent the last few years talking to dealers and motorcycle racers about the unique benefits of Shark's crumple zone technology coupled with serious investment in the company's research, design and manufacturing processes. It is very satisfying to see that what I've been explaining about Shark helmets has been substantiated by INDEPENDENT testing."
Related Link:www.direct.gov.uk/sharp
