oh yea I 100% agree they do save lives. Maybe its just some hidden rebel in me that tells me to leave mine at home. But I will say not untill you feel your a compent rider even think of riding without a helm. I've seen people wreck bikes first weekend ride and not having a helm caused there injury to be lot worse. So if you plan on no helm wait till you can ride well.
I'm sorry to hear about that R-1. Thats another thing probbly don't start on somthing like a 1liter sport bike.