Nolan N-42 - Motorcycle-Journal Forums

Sandman · 05-11-2006, 01:23 PM

I have had mine for a few weeks now and just wanted to share my thoughts.

First let me start out by saying that I only have experience with one other helmet, the Vega Summit XPV. (full-face, modular) I would expect a ¾ helmet to be lighter, have a better field of vision, and be cooler. (this one is on all 3 accounts) I also do not have a windshield or lowers installed yet on my bike, but will in the next 2 weeks.

I really like the chin strap connector. The best I can describe it is a ¾ inch wide zip tie with a quick release latch. The connector is sturdy and can easily be connected and disconnected with gloves on. However, unless I am just missing something, with the new connector there is no place to secure it to a helmet lock.

At speeds below 50mph, the helmet works great. The air flows nicely around the helmet with minimal buffeting and noise. The dark visor can be flipped up for night riding with little drag, but it will catch bugs better than fly paper.

At speeds greater than 50mph, this helmet loses its luster. This helmet is LOUD at highway speeds, at least without a windshield. I like to hear my engine purr as I am going down the road, but all I could hear was the wind in my ears. You definitely need earplugs on the highway.

I was very uncomfortable with two things cruising at highway speeds. For example, yesterday on my way home @ 70mph in moderate to heavy traffic, I felt the helmet pulling hard (up & back) on the chin strap. I am aware that in this kind of traffic there is an increase in turbulence AND in the number of directions it comes at you, but my helmet was seated properly & chin strap was tight with no play. I have never felt this while wearing my Vega.

The second thing that made me feel very uncomfortable was that I felt like the visors were going to flip up at any time. To compensate for this, I angled my head slightly downward which did help a little, but between these two issues I decided to get off a few exits early and take the long way home.

Overall I like the helmet, but wish the dark visor was at least a ½ inch longer. I have to tilt my head downward so that the edge doesn’t become an irritation. Kinda like bifocals not that I wear them, but can imagine being a pain in the a$$. I will save this helmet for slow cruising, the quick trip to the store, and passenger use, and will use the Vega for highway and commuting.

-Sandman