I Finally Bought a New Motorcycle Helmet!

I've been thinking about this purchase for at least 18 months. My old Rat Fink helmet, which I've been wearing since 2003 is actually still in very good condition, with the exception of the pads inside. I always wear sunglasses or riding glasses and like to ride with my visor up whenever possible. I'm slightly claustrophobic so having the visor closed completely for long periods makes me a little crazy! In any case, the pads have become stained with road debris and since they're not removable there isn't a whole lot I can do. I was back and forth between two helmets, the Ikebana by Shark, which has a very subdued pattern of hibiscus flowers in a silvery blue color, or the Flutter 2 by Shoei. My Rat Fink is also a Shoei and I love the way it fits. I'm not sure if my head has a weird shape to it or what, but I have a hard time finding helmets that fit well and are comfortable. I absolutely cannot wear an Arai, which is disappointing because they have some really great designs. Dave had commented that it would probably be better to go with the Shoei given as much riding as we do, he wanted to make sure I had a helmet that would be comfortable. So, needless to say, I went totally girly and bought the Shoei, which is pink with butterflies! Those that know me know I don't really do the girly thing, not that there's anything wrong with it, it's just not me. In fact, I don't own anything pink, other than my handgun (yes, my handgun is pink...totally ironic, but that's why I did it!). Don't get me wrong, I like to show my femininity, I just don't go over the top! So, I went with this helmet so people would know without a doubt, I am a girl on a bike (sometimes its hard to distinguish between male and female when you're wearing a riding jacket, gloves and a helmet). Why the need for people to know? Because I would like to empower other women and I find riding a motorcycle very empowering. I'm not one of those chicks that rides because she wants to be a chick that rides...I ride because I love to ride. Twisting that throttle and being in control of the bike makes me feel strong, makes me feel like I can accomplish anything I put my mind to. And the butterflies, the butterflies represent change, transformation and growth. That's exactly what my life has been since I met Dave. When I met Dave, I was shy, somewhat nerdy, book smart, and not sure what my path was going to be. Today, I am confident, more outgoing, "street" smart, have accomplished many goals, and am setting more! In the end, my choice of helmets is totally appropriate. Oh, and here are the pics...