helmet

With prices in a state of flux, helmet suppliers are hoping lightweight, high-protection models will attract more quality-conscious buyers. More suppliers in mainland China and Taiwan Province are using varieties of composite materials that are lighter than those traditionally utilized to manufacture motorcycle helmets, despite high costs. This has resulted in price increases, particularly in the mainland, where quotes soared by as much as 30 percent in the past 12 months. High-end fiberglass and carbon fiber helmets there currently are priced as high as $30 and $80, respectively. This comes after material costs rose between 70 and 80 percent in 2005. Fiberglass now costs $1,950 per ton while a kilogram of carbon fiber is $160. Suppliers in the mainland are forecasting an additional price increase of 10 percent this year if material costs continue their upward movement. Nevertheless, they are optimistic that exports will continue to register impressive growth as buyers, especially in the US and the EU, prioritize high product quality over prices. Overseas sales have risen by an average of 54 percent in the past two years.