Never wore a helmet till the rep from Hawthorne forced the issue in California a couple few years ago. Went to court over it, paid the fine and was given a half helmet that was 2 sizes to large. Finally bought a bennie that fit, though its not DOT. Bought a DOT sticker for it, but it finally pealed off. The CHP has not bothered me since that 1st time in court years ago. It should be a choice, seems like what we fought for, years ago, in another country. I've seen some die, but more live over the years, some with and some without helmets. Myself, I would choose not to wear one. I feel that a pair of glasses or goggles are necessary, but that also should be up to the rider.