Helmets

Drum Pro · Post by **Drum Pro** » Sat Sep 03, 2011 7:07 am

I thought I'd ask a totally dumb question, but like my maths teacher always told me, "There are no dumb questions", so i guess I'll ask it then..... What type of helmet do any of you recommend? On a sadder note I couldn't go get my first scoot cause there was a fire on the pass and they shut it down and now I'm on evacuation alert. Oh well! there's always next week!!!! Thanks

Skootz Kabootz · Post by **Skootz Kabootz** » Sat Sep 03, 2011 7:28 am

Full face for maximum protection (The illustration shows impact areas in crash statistics. Note the chin...). Also, full face helmets protect your hearing—shield your ears from noise and wind rush.

jasondavis48108 · Post by **jasondavis48108** » Sat Sep 03, 2011 12:18 pm

+1 on the fullface

TVB · Post by **TVB** » Sat Sep 03, 2011 2:14 pm

This might help.

Raiderfn31 · Post by **Raiderfn31** » Sat Sep 03, 2011 2:18 pm

Skootz Kabootz wrote:Full face for maximum protection (The illustration shows impact areas in crash statistics. Note the chin...). Also, full face helmets protect your hearing—shield your ears from noise and wind rush.

And remember, there are no dumb questions, only dumb people.

Post by **ericalm** » Sat Sep 03, 2011 4:42 pm

TVB wrote:This might help.

Beat me to it!

Are you wondering about type of helmet or brands/models?

What you'll find is that there are as many helmet opinions and preferences as riders out there. There's no consensus at all!

Drum Pro · Post by **Drum Pro** » Sat Sep 03, 2011 4:53 pm

Thanks. I know it was a "dumb" question but for a new person to the scooting world, education is key. It's all about learning as much as you can from as many sources as you can. At least for me it is......

Syd · Post by **Syd** » Sat Sep 03, 2011 4:54 pm

Drum Pro wrote:I thought I'd ask a totally dumb question, but like my maths teacher always told me, "There are no dumb questions"...

She was just being nice.

desmolicious · Post by **desmolicious** » Sat Sep 03, 2011 5:45 pm

The FF helmet that saved my life when a car t boned me last year:

About $115.

beastmaster · Post by **beastmaster** » Sat Sep 03, 2011 10:01 pm

i own a ff and a 3/4 the one in the picture. some good brands are hjc ,scorpion, arai and the list goes on and on ,get one thats comfortable to u , because the most important thing is you were one, even if im in short sandals and a muscle shirt i have my helemet on

Raiderfn31 · Post by **Raiderfn31** » Sat Sep 03, 2011 10:13 pm

beastmaster wrote:i own a ff and a 3/4 the one in the picture. some good brands are hjc ,scorpion, arai and the list goes on and on ,get one thats comfortable to u , because the most important thing is you were one, even if im in short sandals and a muscle shirt i have my helemet on

Muscle shirts? Are you getting ready to take the HIGHWAY TO THE DANGER ZONE?

Stormswift · Post by **Stormswift** » Sat Sep 03, 2011 10:35 pm

With Scorpion (I love the helmet by the way) you got to be very careful how you replace the visor and make sure the visor did not "shift or got squeezed before you ride. I almost crushed when my visor came off and landed on my lap during recent ride..... I was in the car as the passenger before that and had the helmet sitting on the floor between my feet. Must have pressed on it somehow. Now I really check to make sure the visor is secure. I managed to bring the bike to a stop without dropping the visor or the bike (really stupid on my part, should have let the visor drop). You live and learn.....

dannomann · Post by **dannomann** » Sun Sep 04, 2011 1:05 am

It's been said before but I think the most important thing is get one that you will wear and that is tight. Helmets will loosen up a little. When I got mine I thought it was a bit too tight, but I am glad because it fit great now.

AWinn6889 · Post by **AWinn6889** » Sun Sep 04, 2011 3:45 am

I'm new here too, but I have quite a bit of off-road and some motorcycle experience.
On motorcycles, especially when it's hot, I wear my half helmet, but I would only suggest it if you are a very comfortable rider, or you are very comfortable with the driver if you are riding on the back. If I find myself stuck with my half helmet at night, I always have a pair of goggles (with three replaceable lense types: clear, amber and shade) because you never know when you just might need them.
At night, and during cooler days, longer rides, or higher speed rides, I have a modular helmet, which is a full face with the chin bar and visor on hinges, and retractable sun shade.

I recommend that you go to a local shop and try on a few helmets to figure out your proper size first, but then try to order from somewhere online like www.motorcycle-superstore.com or www.leatherup.com, you can get really great deals on really nice helmets on both of them. But, if you find a helmet at your local store that is within your price range, and it fits you perfect, go for it!

michelle_7728 · Post by **michelle_7728** » Sun Sep 04, 2011 3:59 am

My one and only crash was at only 30 miles an hour in the drizzle, when a cager pulled out of a blind driveway and stopped directly in my path. If I hadn't been wearing my modular full faced helmet, I would have needed plastic surgery at the minimum, as the chin area was all chewed up, and the area right in front of my nose was all scratched up.

It was a Scorpion EXO-900 and it held up well in the impact...didn't come apart or anything. Of course, I replaced it immediately anyhow.

I started wearing the modular helmet about 3 weeks prior to the accident. Before that I wore a 3/4 helmet with visor.

desmolicious · Post by **desmolicious** » Sun Sep 04, 2011 4:46 am

It's interesting that you read lots of stories about how full face helmets saved the rider, but it's hard to find ones about half or 3/4 helmets saving the rider.

Hmmm.

izark47 · Post by **izark47** » Sun Sep 04, 2011 8:45 am

I started with a skid lid type and then move to a 1/2 and have now settled on a full face, save you some money and go full face first!!!

BuddyRaton · Post by **BuddyRaton** » Sun Sep 04, 2011 9:29 am

AWinn6889 wrote: I recommend that you go to a local shop and try on a few helmets to figure out your proper size first, but then try to order from somewhere online like www.motorcycle-superstore.com or www.leatherup.com, you can get really great deals on really nice helmets on both of them. But, if you find a helmet at your local store that is within your price range, and it fits you perfect, go for it!

I agree with trying on a helmet before buying. However if you go to the shop and they have taken the time and expense to stock the shelves and assist you with fitting...buy it from them.

It is always good to support your local shop..you're going to be there more than you ever imagined!

SuperFlyBuddy · Post by **SuperFlyBuddy** » Tue Sep 06, 2011 4:22 am

desmolicious wrote:It's interesting that you read lots of stories about how full face helmets saved the rider, but it's hard to find ones about half or 3/4 helmets saving the rider.

Hmmm.

I've got one: my father-in-law hit a dear on the freeway last week doing 70 on his Harley wearing a half. He was a little banged up but no broken bones and not even a scratch on his face. So I guess one could say a half saved him.

But in all reality I doubt his half saved him. I think he could have been wearing no helmet and been fine. I don't think there is even a scratch on it. He was insanely lucky. His bike not so much. It was totalled.

I wear a full face.

SuperFlyBuddy · Post by **SuperFlyBuddy** » Tue Sep 06, 2011 4:57 am

I agree wholeheartedly about buying local but keep in mind even a big mail order place like Motorcycle Superstore is local to someplace. In my case they are a local shop. As an example when you buy from them you're helping a guy I grew up with that lived two doors down from me earn a paycheck.

http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com/14 ... story.aspx

But like raton said, if someplace is going to spend the time to get you properly fitted spend the extra twenty or thirty bucks and buy it from them. Plus helmets are something that you'll need to try on first to get that nice fit so you'll always wear it. It's amazing how different they fit, sometimes even between different models from the same manufacturer.

BuddyRaton wrote:
AWinn6889 wrote: I recommend that you go to a local shop and try on a few helmets to figure out your proper size first, but then try to order from somewhere online like www.motorcycle-superstore.com or www.leatherup.com, you can get really great deals on really nice helmets on both of them. But, if you find a helmet at your local store that is within your price range, and it fits you perfect, go for it!
I agree with trying on a helmet before buying. However if you go to the shop and they have taken the time and expense to stock the shelves and assist you with fitting...buy it from them.

It is always good to support your local shop..you're going to be there more than you ever imagined!

Post by **ericalm** » Tue Sep 06, 2011 5:50 am

SuperFlyBuddy wrote:
desmolicious wrote:It's interesting that you read lots of stories about how full face helmets saved the rider, but it's hard to find ones about half or 3/4 helmets saving the rider.

Hmmm.
I've got one: my father-in-law hit a dear on the freeway last week doing 70 on his Harley wearing a half. He was a little banged up but no broken bones and not even a scratch on his face. So I guess one could say a half saved him.

But in all reality I doubt his half saved him. I think he could have been wearing no helmet and been fine. I don't think there is even a scratch on it. He was insanely lucky. His bike not so much. It was totalled.

So I guess you can't say a half saved him?

I've got many, many reports of fatalities that show up in my Google alerts every day, most of which conclude with, "Rider was not wearing a helmet."

Our policy here at MB is not to preach about gear use and that we all need to remain non-judgemental about it when we post. Every one of us makes decisions, whether it comes to what we ride, how we ride, what we wear when we ride, or many other things in our lives that others won't approve of. Shaming and judging people just drives folks away; no one benefits from that.

At the same time, we need to be honest about these things. Your odds of getting killed or suffering a severe injury increase dramatically if you're not wearing a helmet. If you wear an open face, you're looking at increased odds of injury. I know riders with permanent scars on their faces and who have lost teeth. That's a pretty luck outcome should you have a facial injury. One local rider went down at under 40mph on a surface street and the result was what the news called "severe facial trauma." Broken jaw, broken bones in his face and the rest I don't even want to describe here.

No, these things don't happen in 100% of cases, but let's not kid ourselves into thinking that it's not a hell of a lot more likely to happen in anything less that a full helmet.

Everyone's entitled to make their own decisions about these things. MANY of the riders I ride with wear open face helmets. If that's what they decide, cool for them. They're the ones who will have to deal with the consequences.

neotrotsky · Post by **neotrotsky** » Tue Sep 06, 2011 5:56 am

In defiance (and in compliment) to all of the ATGATT drill sergeants on forums such as this, I have both a decent open face and decent full face helmet. I personally think my collection of gear would not be complete without it for several reasons.

First off: The Full Face is a must for long distance travel (wind fatigue SUCKS the will to ride out of you at higher speeds, and you can't hear anything after a while). Also, it's full protection from not only impact but weather as well. It keeps the sun off, the wind chill down and the water out. There are plenty of reasons to have a full face helmet as well, but these two are the biggest.

I also have an open face helmet because I honestly prefer the 3/4 design. Yes, it's not "proper" and lots of numbers can be spat out about how you're a moron/idiot/Darwin's award winner for even thinking about wearing one. But, two huge factors are fit and temperature. I am unfortunately cursed with a HUGE noggin! I mean, XXL to XXXL helmets that ALWAYS must be custom ordered

This means that 90% of the time, SNELL approved helmets are never available to me (since it seems the largest sizes don't qualify or some such BS as said from many different retailers... have yet to find a hard reason why). But, this also means that my chin ALWAYS drags on the chinguard of every helmet I buy. I have yet to find one helmet that my chin doesn't rub against. I have a current one that doesn't drag as bad, but most literally compress my jaw in my face, and that's not safe or comfy. But, sometimes you need that full face coverage. When I just get fed up, I have an AVG Blade-Multi or a Scorpion EXO-100 (recently retired due to a torn strap). It's honestly a joy to wear those compared to the cramped full face ones, especially in the Arizona heat.

I understand the risks, but frankly I'm rocking as much protection as I can humanly stand, and that is key: Do the best you can with what you got. Be mindful of the gear you buy and make sure it fits WELL, because ill-fitting top of the line gear could be more dangerous than cheap gear. No gear is not an option.

When the new Stella FINALLY gets purchased (hopefully this week

), I will be putting a matching full face and open face helmet in the budget. the current ones I have are a couple of years old and after being stuck riding a family member's sportster to augment our single-car issue, I just want to be rid of anything that reminds me of having to fight that glitchy bike in downtown Phoenix. New bikes should always have new helmets and jackets. It's kind of like getting new shoes and a new backpack on the first day of school!

Post by **ericalm** » Tue Sep 06, 2011 6:01 am

neotrotsky wrote:I am unfortunately cursed with a HUGE noggin! I mean, XXL to XXXL helmets that ALWAYS must be custom ordered This means that 90% of the time, SNELL approved helmets are never available to me (since it seems the largest sizes don't qualify or some such BS as said from many different retailers... have yet to find a hard reason why). But, this also means that my chin ALWAYS drags on the chinguard of every helmet I buy. I have yet to find one helmet that my chin doesn't rub against.

This is why I wear a modular and not a solid FF. (I've a 7 3/4 hat size. Can't even buy hats off the rack!) Even most modulars don't fit me; some won't close on my head. This is also why when I bought a new helmet recently, I wound up getting the updated version of the last one I had, the Vega Summit II. I've tried on probably 50 different FF and modular helmet models in various sizes over the past several years and none fit as well. It's known for having the most front-to-back space of any on the market.

neotrotsky · Post by **neotrotsky** » Tue Sep 06, 2011 6:05 am

ericalm wrote:
neotrotsky wrote:I am unfortunately cursed with a HUGE noggin! I mean, XXL to XXXL helmets that ALWAYS must be custom ordered This means that 90% of the time, SNELL approved helmets are never available to me (since it seems the largest sizes don't qualify or some such BS as said from many different retailers... have yet to find a hard reason why). But, this also means that my chin ALWAYS drags on the chinguard of every helmet I buy. I have yet to find one helmet that my chin doesn't rub against.
This is why I wear a modular and not a solid FF. (I've a 7 3/4 hat size. Can't even buy hats off the rack!) Even most modulars don't fit me; some won't close on my head. This is also why when I bought a new helmet recently, I wound up getting the updated version of the last one I had, the Vega Summit II. I've tried on probably 50 different FF and modular helmet models in various sizes over the past several years and none fit as well. It's known for having the most front-to-back space of any on the market.

Hey! I'm rocking a Vega as well! Don't remember the model (a standard FF only), but I got it on clearance for $89 and was the best fitting that didn't feel too cheap so I wasn't going to argue. Wanted one of those cool Nolan retro painted full face jobs, but alas... they didn't fit. And, they were on sale too at the time

Honestly wish I could fit into some of the cooler modular ones, but I really can't find one that doesn't push my jaw in. Will look into Vega's modular ones.

Mulliganal · Post by **Mulliganal** » Tue Sep 06, 2011 12:49 pm

Ya know, I bought a Nolan N30 even before my Stella arrived just because I liked the look. I urged my wife to get a FF helmet which she did this weekend. I guess it's time for me to listen to my own advice and pick up a FF helmet also.

Anyone here have a HJC IS-16? I tried on an HJC (not the IS-16) and I really like the fit which I can't say for the Nolan N30: the Nolan never fit my head comfortably.

Also, do any of you folks put reflective tape or stickers on your helmets?

PeteH · Post by **PeteH** » Tue Sep 06, 2011 1:39 pm

Can't speak for the Nolan or the HJC, but I have a reasonably-big noggin as well (25.5"). I'm currently wearing a white 2XL GMax 68S, about $115. Great venting.

I indeed have some DOT hi-conspicuity (truck/trailer marker) reflective tape on my helmet. The 68S also has a set of 6 LEDs on the back, which can be switched to solid or blink. They also sell a module kit that has a wireless transmitter that you cut into your brake light wiring plus a wireless receiver in the helmet to lite 'em up when you hit the brakes. I haven't gone quite this crazy yet, but if there's a spare $45 in my pocket next time I'm at the scooter shop, who knows? It would probably look crazy cool if I wired the transmitter after the brake light modulator.

WoodWurkur · Post by **WoodWurkur** » Tue Sep 06, 2011 1:52 pm

I can totally relate to the size issues mentioned here because I have a size 8 1/4 head and have dealt with this issue my whole life. Thankfully I found the HJC CL-Max II Modular helmet that comes in sizes from Small to 5XL and the 5X fits me perfectly. I had to drive to Mobile, Alabama to try one (about an hour from me) and it was so worth it. I then discovered that HJC also makes the CL-Max II Zader helmet which adds some colors and ordered the yellow model to match my jacket and give me a spare helmet as well. My chin does not rub and the modular design is the perfect ticket for me! I HIGHLY recommend these models for anyone with a big melon to protect!

siobhan · Post by **siobhan** » Tue Sep 06, 2011 2:17 pm

Mulliganal wrote:...
Anyone here have a HJC IS-16? I tried on an HJC (not the IS-16) and I really like the fit which I can't say for the Nolan N30: the Nolan never fit my head comfortably.

Also, do any of you folks put reflective tape or stickers on your helmets?

I've got an HJC CL-16. I chose the CL over the IS because 1) I don't like integrated sun visors as I wear prescription sunglasses and therefore don't need the sun visor (which only adds weight in my opinion), and 2) I wear an XS and wanted a Snell 2010 helmet because the 2010 rating is directly meaningful for smaller head sizes.

I also like that the CL was 99 bux. I ride almost every day of the year and replace my helmet about every two years, so spending $400 to $700 on a lid is out of the budget.

I have decorated my helmet with retro-reflective stickers. They're pink and black checkerboard by day and the black shines white when light hits it. It's very noticeable (I've been told).

Mulliganal · Post by **Mulliganal** » Tue Sep 06, 2011 2:40 pm

siobhan wrote:
Mulliganal wrote:...
Anyone here have a HJC IS-16? I tried on an HJC (not the IS-16) and I really like the fit which I can't say for the Nolan N30: the Nolan never fit my head comfortably.

Also, do any of you folks put reflective tape or stickers on your helmets?
I've got an HJC CL-16. I chose the CL over the IS because 1) I don't like integrated sun visors as I wear prescription sunglasses and therefore don't need the sun visor (which only adds weight in my opinion), and 2) I wear an XS and wanted a Snell 2010 helmet because the 2010 rating is directly meaningful for smaller head sizes.

I also like that the CL was 99 bux. I ride almost every day of the year and replace my helmet about every two years, so spending $400 to $700 on a lid is out of the budget.

I have decorated my helmet with retro-reflective stickers. They're pink and black checkerboard by day and the black shines white when light hits it. It's very noticeable (I've been told).

Thanks siobhan, my wife just ordered the CL-16 and I think I'm going to pass on the IS-16 and pick up one of the CL-16 lids also. I think I can do without the inner sun visor also. Where did you find it for $99?

AWinn6889 · Post by **AWinn6889** » Tue Sep 06, 2011 2:55 pm

Mulliganal wrote:Ya know, I bought a Nolan N30 even before my Stella arrived just because I liked the look. I urged my wife to get a FF helmet which she did this weekend. I guess it's time for me to listen to my own advice and pick up a FF helmet also.

Anyone here have a HJC IS-16? I tried on an HJC (not the IS-16) and I really like the fit which I can't say for the Nolan N30: the Nolan never fit my head comfortably.

Also, do any of you folks put reflective tape or stickers on your helmets?

My bf just bought an HJC recently, not quite sure which model (IS-MAX, I think), but it was the only modular FF they offered at our local place, and he needed it for the next day. He wears an XXL and it fits great, doesn't rub his chin (which he found was the problem with all of the other FF helmets he tried on at our local Harley/Triumph/Royal Enfield dealer, and at one of the other local motorsports stores.

The thing is, the people at this particular place were not very interested in helping find the right helmet, we had to walk around for a while before we finally found the HJC we were looking for. Thankfully people at the other stores previous to this one helped a lot, so that he could find the right fit, and even suggested the particular HJC that he bought (the Harley place carried them, but not the XXL size).
Anyway, he loves the thing. He bought it originally because he was taking his bike down to CT to his office for the day (he telecommutes 99.9% of the time), and he said the difference was incredible. So much less wind fatigue and noise, and it works perfectly with his Cardo. After his trip he got a small 10 sec. detachable windshield, which he said doesn't make much difference with the modular FF, but with the half helmet it significantly reduces bugs-in-the-face and wind fatigue.

So I followed with a pink HAWK GLD-902 modular FF from leatherup.com. Thankfully I have a much smaller head than he does and the medium I ordered fit me perfectly. The other nice thing about Leatherup is that if you order something, and there's something not right, or it doesn't fit you correctly, you can send it back no questions asked, and usually without a restocking fee. It cost him about $7 and change (USPS) to send back the modular FF he ordered from them. IF you decide to exchange it, you still have to ship back the one that was sent to you, and they promptly send a new one out.

We also ordered our jackets from there, we both already had leathers from a local leather place, Russ & Rebel's, but they were just wayyy too hot for the summer weather. Our armored fancy-super-strong-whatever-it's-called-fabric jackets are perfect. On mine, the armor is removable, not that I would remove it in a riding situation. On most of the jackets and such there are reviews that tell you, go a size up, go a size down, fits true to size, too tight in the chest area for the ladies, arms are too long if you're short, etc, so it's fairly easy to determine your fit without trying on.
There are also reviews from people who have dumped their bikes wearing certain products (helmets, jackets, gloves, etc) that tell you how well they held up in the crash. It's very helpful, I would say more helpful than some sales guy at a shop trying to sell you as much as possible from his store.

The point is, try to know what you're looking for before you go out and buy it, there are so many resources online, and in the people around you that you can use. Do your homework first.

One last thing, I understand supporting your local businesses, I work for one. BUT if I can save $50 and get free shipping from another place, if it's something that I don't need right this minute and can wait for it to be shipped to me, I will order it online. Every business is a local business somewhere, it doesn't hurt to help out the economy in areas where your family, friends and acquaintances live either.

Edit: Wanted to add that I have both a bit of reflective tape and some stickers on my helmets. My favorite being the bright orange diamond "tail of the dragon" sign. Very visible!

Edwub · Post by **Edwub** » Tue Sep 06, 2011 3:13 pm

I've got a full-face GMAX that's good to last another year, but I'm trying to figure out what to get the lady.

She freaks out at the idea of a full-face, she gets claustrophobic. Nearly started hyperventilating when she tries my helmet on, which is already too big for her. I think part of it is how you pull the helmet down over your face to put it on.

Has anyone figured out how to overcome this?

She's never ridden with me yet on my Blur, but has on a different scoot wearing one of those purty Nolans (borrowed). Although she doesn't really want to ride all that much (or so she thinks!!!), but I figure even if it's just twice a month for 30 minutes I'd want her in the "safest" possible helmet type. $ is an issue, can't really afford a $200+ helmet, especially as I want to get her at least an armored jacket and some gloves.

I've started to look into 3/4 with a full face visor helmets, but I thought modular might be a way to go, if I can convince her to go try some on. Was thinking she could slip it on with the front open, then close it and not feel quite as trapped.

Southerner · Post by **Southerner** » Tue Sep 06, 2011 3:17 pm

I agree with everybody on the full face. I would dearly love to go back to an open face, especially in this stifling southern heat, but really wouldn't want to run the risk. After all, If you knew when an accident was going to happen, you'd just stay home that day, wouldn't you?

As long as your helmet has the DOT sticker on it, you're good. The guys in the bike mags will all say "nothing but an Arai", which is an excellent helmet, and primarily notable for their different fits, but cost about $800. If I raced, I would definitely have one, but I don't.

My current helmet is a G-Max something-or-other that I bought primarily because it had more vents than I've ever seen. It's also got a rear light that I might use if I were riding at night or in bad weather.

I'd feel just as safe in just about any DOT-rated full face.

Ditto also on the fit. Definitely go somewhere and try some on. I don't buy boots online for the same reason.

If I were to pick out any helmet I wanted at this point, I'd probably buy a Nolan Nn.43. It has a removeable chin bar, which I'd NEVER remove but it's pretty small and looks good enough to offer sufficient protection without blocking my downward view too much.

skadoosh · Post by **skadoosh** » Tue Sep 06, 2011 3:42 pm

Just remember that different helmets have different shapes, so even if a medium fits you, another medium may not. Even if its the same brand. And make sure when you try it on, pay attention to pressure spots. And wear it for at least 15 minutes. But its really hard to tell what a helmet will be like by just trying it on at the store.

Syd · Post by **Syd** » Tue Sep 06, 2011 4:19 pm

siobhan wrote:
Mulliganal wrote:...
Anyone here have a HJC IS-16? I tried on an HJC (not the IS-16) and I really like the fit which I can't say for the Nolan N30: the Nolan never fit my head comfortably.

Also, do any of you folks put reflective tape or stickers on your helmets?
I've got an HJC CL-16. I chose the CL over the IS because 1) I don't like integrated sun visors as I wear prescription sunglasses and therefore don't need the sun visor (which only adds weight in my opinion), and 2) I wear an XS and wanted a Snell 2010 helmet because the 2010 rating is directly meaningful for smaller head sizes.

I also like that the CL was 99 bux. I ride almost every day of the year and replace my helmet about every two years, so spending $400 to $700 on a lid is out of the budget.

I have decorated my helmet with retro-reflective stickers. They're pink and black checkerboard by day and the black shines white when light hits it. It's very noticeable (I've been told).

I had the CL15 for a few years and replaced it with the IS-16, which is noticeably quieter than the CL15. The pads feel different (more substantial and more complete) around the ears, which probably explains the quietness, because the IS16 has more interruptions in airflow than the CL15 does.

siobhan · Post by **siobhan** » Tue Sep 06, 2011 4:25 pm

Edwub wrote:I've got a full-face GMAX that's good to last another year, but I'm trying to figure out what to get the lady.

She freaks out at the idea of a full-face, she gets claustrophobic. Nearly started hyperventilating when she tries my helmet on, which is already too big for her. I think part of it is how you pull the helmet down over your face to put it on.

Has anyone figured out how to overcome this?

She's never ridden with me yet on my Blur, but has on a different scoot wearing one of those purty Nolans (borrowed). Although she doesn't really want to ride all that much (or so she thinks!!!), but I figure even if it's just twice a month for 30 minutes I'd want her in the "safest" possible helmet type. $ is an issue, can't really afford a $200+ helmet, especially as I want to get her at least an armored jacket and some gloves.

I've started to look into 3/4 with a full face visor helmets, but I thought modular might be a way to go, if I can convince her to go try some on. Was thinking she could slip it on with the front open, then close it and not feel quite as trapped.

Have a look at the HJC CL-Max and the Sy-Max II. They were both on clearance not that long ago as the CL-Max II and the Sy-Max III are now out. Look at places like newenough (or whatever they're calling themselves now), motorcycle-superstore.com and revzilla. They're both modular. The CL-Max was always cheaper because it's heavier (good for short rides). I can personally vouch for the Sy-Max II as it saved my boyfriend's life in a hit-and-run. He replaced it with the same exact helmet.

As for the freaking out, you can pull it on from the top back of the head forward and leave the visor up. This is how I do it when I'm taking one of the students for a joyride around campus. I tell them, you gotta deal with getting this helmet on or we're going nowhere.

siobhan · Post by **siobhan** » Tue Sep 06, 2011 4:33 pm

Syd wrote:
siobhan wrote:
Mulliganal wrote:...
Anyone here have a HJC IS-16? I tried on an HJC (not the IS-16) and I really like the fit which I can't say for the Nolan N30: the Nolan never fit my head comfortably.

Also, do any of you folks put reflective tape or stickers on your helmets?
I've got an HJC CL-16. I chose the CL over the IS because 1) I don't like integrated sun visors as I wear prescription sunglasses and therefore don't need the sun visor (which only adds weight in my opinion), and 2) I wear an XS and wanted a Snell 2010 helmet because the 2010 rating is directly meaningful for smaller head sizes.

I also like that the CL was 99 bux. I ride almost every day of the year and replace my helmet about every two years, so spending $400 to $700 on a lid is out of the budget.

I have decorated my helmet with retro-reflective stickers. They're pink and black checkerboard by day and the black shines white when light hits it. It's very noticeable (I've been told).
I had the CL15 for a few years and replaced it with the IS-16, which is noticeably quieter than the CL15. The pads feel different (more substantial and more complete) around the ears, which probably explains the quietness, because the IS16 has more interruptions in airflow than the CL15 does.

So do you think the IS-16 is hotter than the CL-15? My CL-16 leaves me a sweaty mess when I'm working really hard. And I just can't wear a dirt helmet and goggles with my glasses. Oh for Lasik one day.

Akaipaps · Post by **Akaipaps** » Tue Sep 06, 2011 4:35 pm

Honestly wish I could fit into some of the cooler modular ones, but I really can't find one that doesn't push my jaw in. Will look into Vega's modular ones.

Hubby just bought a Scorpion Exo-900. He has a XXL head and wears glasses. This is the only one that didn't squash his jaw. Might want to look into it as well.

Akaipaps · Post by **Akaipaps** » Tue Sep 06, 2011 4:44 pm

She freaks out at the idea of a full-face, she gets claustrophobic. Nearly started hyperventilating when she tries my helmet on, which is already too big for her. I think part of it is how you pull the helmet down over your face to put it on.

Has anyone figured out how to overcome this?

Edwub, if you ever find something that works, can you post it? I have the same problem. I can't even get laughing gas at the dentist without some serious meds to get me over the feeling of something over my mouth.

I'm currently using a Dainese Jet Stream Tourer (imported) and a KBC 3/4 helmet. I love the Dainese for hot weather, and it has a pull down sun visor. Both are over 3 years old, and I know I'm going to have to start paying attention to a replacement. I would love to find another 3/4 helmet with the retractable sun visor. Then, I don't have to take off my glasses and put on sunglasses.

AWinn6889 · Post by **AWinn6889** » Tue Sep 06, 2011 5:06 pm

For the claustrophobic, I suggest something like this...

http://leatherup.com/p/DOT-Approved/Haw ... 93126.html

http://leatherup.com/p/DOT-Approved/HJC ... 59690.html

It has a little more meat to it than a normal 3/4, to better protect your jaw, and the flip down face covering visor is completely clear, and if clean, not terribly noticeable or overbearing.
My stepsister is claustrophobic, and we used to share a helmet when we were younger, riding on my Dad's motorcycles, this is about the same as our old helmet, and she was perfectly fine with it. She said you should be be sure to put it on with the visor up, THEN pull the visor down when comfortable, I guess it just worked better for her that way.

Akaipaps · Post by **Akaipaps** » Tue Sep 06, 2011 5:21 pm

Now, why didn't I see these when I was internet shopping this weekend? They look right up my alley. Do they make them in Day-Glo green? (Hi-Viz)

AWinn6889 · Post by **AWinn6889** » Tue Sep 06, 2011 5:30 pm

Akaipaps wrote:Now, why didn't I see these when I was internet shopping this weekend? They look right up my alley. Do they make them in Day-Glo green? (Hi-Viz)

Not that I have seen, I would love that color too! ... But alas, I plan on ordering a silver one of the HAWK version fairly soon, might as well add a 3/4+ to my collection.. since I have two halfs, two 3/4s and a modular FF already! ..plus silver will match my scoot better!
ALSO, if any of you order from leatherup, they almost always have promo codes for 10%-15% off of your order.

http://www.retailmenot.com/view/leatherup.com

Is a good place to check if you plan on ordering anything online from anywhere really, or are going shopping at any store as they have links to printable coupons too!

Post by **ericalm** » Tue Sep 06, 2011 5:48 pm

There are some models nowadays which sort of "split the difference"; true modulars/convertibles such as the Nolan N-43 Trilogy and the HJC IS-Multi.

In addition to having fully removable chinbars, I think these may offer more of the feel and ventilation benefits of a 3/4 or open face while providing a higher degree of face protection.

While the chinbar on the Nolan N43 passes the ECE impact standards for a full face helmet, it still doesn't provide the same degree of coverage. The jaw is still somewhat exposed and the face shields on 3/4 helmets (and the Trilogy) don't close as tightly as on FFs, which can be problematic. I rode with a young woman once who crashed while wearing a high-quality Shoei 3/4 and the face shield ripped right off. Seven stitches above the eye for that one.

gunsntexas · Post by **gunsntexas** » Tue Sep 06, 2011 6:04 pm

I have a Nolan N30 that supposedly makes me look like a bobble head in a large. So I am always on the lookout for something low profile that doesn't make me look like a big headed alien.

Southerner · Post by **Southerner** » Tue Sep 06, 2011 6:05 pm

I got interested in the HJC until I read the article.

"Nice helmet but crappy chin bar design" seems to sum up the author's impression.

I think for me the Nolan won't be as good as a full face but maybe "good enough."
That is to say, not totally unprotected.

Irond Will · Post by **Irond Will** » Tue Sep 06, 2011 6:17 pm

Has anyone heard of an open-faced helmet with some sort of protective cage (as opposed to a mostly-closed helmet)? The modulars on this page sort of come close to what I'm thinking, but would prefer something more like a football helmet - the feeling of wind on your face is sadly missing from every full-faced helmet I've tried, even with the visor up.

I use a 3/4 and just wish there were a bar or cage over my chin for safety.

Post by **ericalm** » Tue Sep 06, 2011 6:24 pm

Irond Will wrote:Has anyone heard of an open-faced helmet with some sort of protective cage (as opposed to a mostly-closed helmet)? The modulars on this page sort of come close to what I'm thinking, but would prefer something more like a football helmet - the feeling of wind on your face is sadly missing from every full-faced helmet I've tried, even with the visor up.

I use a 3/4 and just wish there were a bar or cage over my chin for safety.

Aside from something like the Nolan Trilogy, no. Nothing with a cage-like design. I suspect that kind of thing probably wouldn't pass DOT. I think it'd be very difficult to produce a cage that didn't obscure vision and wouldn't bend or shatter on impact.

Schuberth makes a helmet (the J1) that has a simple single bar that wraps around the bottom. Not sure how much good that does. And it's a $700 or so non-DOT helmet.

Irond Will · Post by **Irond Will** » Tue Sep 06, 2011 6:27 pm

ericalm wrote:
Irond Will wrote:Has anyone heard of an open-faced helmet with some sort of protective cage (as opposed to a mostly-closed helmet)? The modulars on this page sort of come close to what I'm thinking, but would prefer something more like a football helmet - the feeling of wind on your face is sadly missing from every full-faced helmet I've tried, even with the visor up.

I use a 3/4 and just wish there were a bar or cage over my chin for safety.
Aside from something like the Nolan Trilogy, no. Nothing with a cage-like design. I suspect that kind of thing probably wouldn't pass DOT. I think it'd be very difficult to produce a cage that didn't obscure vision and wouldn't bend or shatter on impact.

Schuberth makes a helmet (the J1) that has a simple single bar that wraps around the bottom. Not sure how much good that does. And it's a $700 or so non-DOT helmet.

Ah too bad. I guess I could give the Trilogy a try. Any idea if it can fit in the Buddy's pet carrier when the chinbar is removed?

That Schuberth J1 seems to basically follow the idea I had. Shame about the price and the lack of DoT cert. Was it rejected on safety grounds or just never submitted for approval?

viney266 · Post by **viney266** » Tue Sep 06, 2011 7:00 pm

desmolicious wrote:It's interesting that you read lots of stories about how full face helmets saved the rider, but it's hard to find ones about half or 3/4 helmets saving the rider.

Hmmm.

^^^ Its because all of us full face types ride like we are nuts!, cause we know we are safe! LOL

Yeah, I recomend a full face. Try a few on at your local shops...TRY to buy local, if you ask, those guys can make you some good deals...But, don't be afraid to try a 3/4..Its whatever you are comfortable with. Me, full face Shoei for the last 18 years...I like it not just for the safety in a crash, but to keep me dry in the rain, and the bugs off my face when I pass the cowfields at night

roblinx · Post by **roblinx** » Tue Sep 06, 2011 7:01 pm

My wife likes to call me "Gazoo" when I'm wearing my Nolan N30.

I just bought a Nolan N84 for the upcoming cold weather. Maybe she'll start calling me "Darth".

EDIT: It's a Nolan N20! They need better names.

Syd · Post by **Syd** » Tue Sep 06, 2011 7:22 pm

siobhan wrote:
Syd wrote:
siobhan wrote: I've got an HJC CL-16. I chose the CL over the IS because 1) I don't like integrated sun visors as I wear prescription sunglasses and therefore don't need the sun visor (which only adds weight in my opinion), and 2) I wear an XS and wanted a Snell 2010 helmet because the 2010 rating is directly meaningful for smaller head sizes.

I also like that the CL was 99 bux. I ride almost every day of the year and replace my helmet about every two years, so spending $400 to $700 on a lid is out of the budget.

I have decorated my helmet with retro-reflective stickers. They're pink and black checkerboard by day and the black shines white when light hits it. It's very noticeable (I've been told).
I had the CL15 for a few years and replaced it with the IS-16, which is noticeably quieter than the CL15. The pads feel different (more substantial and more complete) around the ears, which probably explains the quietness, because the IS16 has more interruptions in airflow than the CL15 does.
So do you think the IS-16 is hotter than the CL-15? My CL-16 leaves me a sweaty mess when I'm working really hard. And I just can't wear a dirt helmet and goggles with my glasses. Oh for Lasik one day.

Good question. For lawnmower reasons I didn't ride for what turned out to be about the nastiest week of the year; 110+ at 30-40% humidity. Ugh. The IS-16 is about a year old now, so my memory's pretty weak as far as a comparisons go. But the IS has better inlet venting than the CL15 did - two inlets to the top of the head with an improved closure mechanism plus the slider for the internal shade (which I now rarely use), four outlets in the back that are uninterrupted by padding, and the chin vent that seems pretty useless.

Modern Buddy

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