helmet reviews - or who likes their helmet and can share their likes / dislikes - Motorcycle-Journal Forums

GregR1 · 04-25-2007, 04:43 PM

haven't seen this type of thread around yet, so here we go!

looking to get a new helmet (i think) since the one i have now - an HJC CL-12 - seems to be quite noisy at highway speeds and makes it feel like i've got a windsail strapped to my head! at some angles, it just seems to REALLY catch the wind and wants to shift around, and at other angles it whistles like a mofo. it's great for non-highway use, though. another reason to get a new one is colour (black ain't the most visible) and just basic age - this one is around 6 years old now, so even with minimal use i think it might be best to shelve it.

who has a nice aerodynamic and quiet full-face bucket that they really like for highway riding? i'd prefer to stick with normal full-face and not do the modular type. of course i realize i have to try it on myself to make sure it fits my specific head, but the stores don't usually have a wind tunnel in which to evaluate wind noise and wind-catching ability.

BrianHeath · 04-25-2007, 04:59 PM

i like the new line of Nolan helmets with the n-com.

and i'm a fan of modular ...

you should check em out.

SNAFU · 04-25-2007, 05:08 PM

Scorpion EXO-700

Good price. No-fog face shield. Moisture wicking removable and washable liner. Plenty of vents to keep you cool. Quite on highways and the helmet has been aero-tuned.

Scorpion Sports © 2007

tallannie · 04-25-2007, 05:57 PM

...big fan of modular here. I had an HJC non-modular full face and hated it. Now I have the SYMAX modular and it is much better for getting your head in and out without stripping off your ears or your glasses. Mine seems quiet and doesnt buffet in the wind....but I have no expeirence with other full face, tho....so cannot really compare.

raycogxxx · 04-25-2007, 06:25 PM

Like I've said on other threads I really like my HJC CL-SP full face- 1 of the best helmets you can get for under $200.00- If you like the way your CL-12 fits you should try on the SP.

ps. I was doing 90+ mph on highway today (windy also) with no lifting/buffeting issues an it only starts getting noisy above 80 mph.

Welcome to HJC

baum604 · 04-25-2007, 06:27 PM

I have an HJC (sorry don't know the model, but one of the cheaper ones), it fits nice, but it is noisy.

I also have a Zeus modular helmet, but the lower padding around the jaw ends further back on the side. So when I ride, the wind pushes back the helmet a little and feels like the wind is going to twist the helmet under my chin. Bought the same size as my other one, and is snug on my head, but the design of the helmet just may not fit my head properly. The feature of being able to raise the front is nice, especially if you have to go through checkpoints and they have to see your face.

My next helmet will be an Arai Quantum II. Tried my friends helmet and it was quiet, cool and comfortable. Kind of pricey tho.

GregR1 · 04-25-2007, 06:35 PM

so far, i like most of the CL-12 except when speeds get beyond 45mph since the wind noise gets a bit tiresome and downright loud, and now that i think about it the visor doesn't close down with a nice positive click - i sometimes realize that it is open by one notch on one side and it leaves a crack through which wind gets right it. kinda irritating since i then have to reach up and shove it closed again.

obviously, in autocross / autoslalom, these things were never an issue

edit - looks like i'll be scoping out the local shops tomorrow and friday looking at fits and whatnot. local store is supposed to have a sale on may 5th on their shark and kbc in-stock buckets (though their wording makes it sound like it's 40% off for the ladies versions). dunno if it's worth to wait and check out those brands....

NorthernYankee · 04-25-2007, 06:45 PM

I have a HJC CL-SP...fits my round head perfect, much better than the Arai's and Shoei's I was trying out.

Here is a great review of it.

HJC CL-SP - webBikeWorld

**Clint** · 04-25-2007, 06:53 PM

I sprung for an Ariai Signet GTR this last time around. Comfort is great and airflow is adequate. I had some problems with small parts breaking, but that ended when I learned that I was using a cleaner which deteriorated the plastic (citrus).

Here's another thread that might be helpful. http://www.motorcycle-journal.com/fo...met-comfy.html

Scribbles · 04-25-2007, 07:40 PM

Z1R Ace 3/4. I tried one modular, a Vega, but it gave me horrible headaches (I had my jaw reconstructed several years ago, and headaches from pressure on my chin or jaw are an issue). I still want a modular helmet, but for now, the Z1R is a great one. Comfortable, and quiet.

kay · 04-25-2007, 09:18 PM

I use the SHOEI X-Eleven. SHOEI is known in Japan to be a really aerodynamic (and therefore quite) helmet. But I only know Suomy other than SHOEI, so can't really compare.

Shoei 2007

Between Suomy and SHOEI, I like my SHOEI though.

Blade · 04-25-2007, 09:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kay

I use the SHOEI X-Eleven. SHOEI is known in Japan to be a really aerodynamic (and therefore quite) helmet. But I only know Suomy other than SHOEI, so can't really compare.

Shoei 2007

Between Suomy and SHOEI, I like my SHOEI though.

+1 on the Shoei

jwalcik · 04-25-2007, 10:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BrianHeath

i like the new line of Nolan helmets with the n-com.

and i'm a fan of modular ...

you should check em out.

I've got one of these as well. I love it. I went looking for a modular helmet that had a built-in sun shield, and that I could get on and off without taking off my glasses. I found the Nolan and the Caberg Justisimo. The Nolan (this year's model anyway) just fit my head better.

**inspiron** · 04-26-2007, 04:58 AM

My helmet is in the M-J.com BLOG from June 2006.

http://www.motorcycle-journal.com/20...jim-of-m-jcom/

BlaznBlu · 04-26-2007, 09:35 AM

I have a modular HJC Symax which was very good. After taking a rock on the top of my head at 75 MPH, I had to replace my cracked helmet.

I looked at a number of helmets, almost went with the Scorpion EXO-700 but agree that it is a PITA to put on and off after being used to a modular helmet.

Nolan's never fit me right in the past, but I tried on the Nolan N102 and it felt great. Again, easy to get on and off since it's a modular and has much better ventilation than the HJC. Also appears to have better features to reduce noise than the HJC. It should be arriving today or tomorow.

GregR1 · 04-26-2007, 10:23 AM

hmm, i'm going through the reviews on wBW and i think i might give the modular / flip-face thing a try... hmm... ponder...

palanon · 04-26-2007, 10:27 AM

Same here Greg. The flip ups are intriguing. Gotta try one at a shop and see...

ORBrit · 04-26-2007, 10:39 AM

I have an HJC-AC12 and it does really well with stability at speed - I can turn my head without too much effort. The noise at freeway cruising can be a little annoying - I may look into geting a helmet skirt to reduce the wind noise.
We bought my wife's dad a CL-SP for Christmas which he seems to really like.

themeatmanlandry · 04-26-2007, 01:57 PM

I have a cheapo Vega. You get what you pay for. The way I figure it, I got the head for cheap, why spend a ton of money on a cover for it?

My next helmet, I'll spend a little more.

**intimid8er** · 04-26-2007, 04:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by themeatmanlandry

I have a cheapo Vega. You get what you pay for. The way I figure it, I got the head for cheap, why spend a ton of money on a cover for it?

ROFL.

04-25-2007, 04:43 PM	#1 (permalink)
GregR1 ... Joined: Mar 2007 Posts: 2,308	helmet reviews - or who likes their helmet and can share their likes / dislikes haven't seen this type of thread around yet, so here we go! looking to get a new helmet (i think) since the one i have now - an HJC CL-12 - seems to be quite noisy at highway speeds and makes it feel like i've got a windsail strapped to my head! at some angles, it just seems to REALLY catch the wind and wants to shift around, and at other angles it whistles like a mofo. it's great for non-highway use, though. another reason to get a new one is colour (black ain't the most visible) and just basic age - this one is around 6 years old now, so even with minimal use i think it might be best to shelve it. who has a nice aerodynamic and quiet full-face bucket that they really like for highway riding? i'd prefer to stick with normal full-face and not do the modular type. of course i realize i have to try it on myself to make sure it fits my specific head, but the stores don't usually have a wind tunnel in which to evaluate wind noise and wind-catching ability. Last edited by GregR1; 04-25-2007 at 04:45 PM.

04-25-2007, 04:59 PM	#2 (permalink)
BrianHeath Seat Tester Joined: Apr 2007 Bike: 2005 Kawasaki Vulcan 500 Location: Kansas City Area Posts: 60	i like the new line of Nolan helmets with the n-com. and i'm a fan of modular ... you should check em out. __________________

04-25-2007, 05:08 PM	#3 (permalink)
SNAFU Just Won't Go Away ! Joined: Mar 2006 Bike: '06 M50 Black Location: Winnipeg, Canada Posts: 5,020	Scorpion EXO-700 Good price. No-fog face shield. Moisture wicking removable and washable liner. Plenty of vents to keep you cool. Quite on highways and the helmet has been aero-tuned. Scorpion Sports © 2007 __________________

04-25-2007, 05:57 PM	#4 (permalink)
tallannie Can Ride And Chew Gum Joined: Dec 2006 Bike: C50 Boulevard Location: Hillsboro, Oregon Posts: 2,120	...big fan of modular here. I had an HJC non-modular full face and hated it. Now I have the SYMAX modular and it is much better for getting your head in and out without stripping off your ears or your glasses. Mine seems quiet and doesnt buffet in the wind....but I have no expeirence with other full face, tho....so cannot really compare. __________________ .... Just in Time moto-cookie delivery

04-25-2007, 06:25 PM	#5 (permalink)
raycogxxx Sprocket Pilot Joined: Feb 2007 Bike: 2006 M50-Blue Location: Ft Worth, Texas Posts: 852	Like I've said on other threads I really like my HJC CL-SP full face- 1 of the best helmets you can get for under $200.00- If you like the way your CL-12 fits you should try on the SP. ps. I was doing 90+ mph on highway today (windy also) with no lifting/buffeting issues an it only starts getting noisy above 80 mph. Welcome to HJC __________________ "So long as they don't get violent, I want to let everyone say what they wish, for I myself have always said exactly what pleased me." -- Albert Einstein 2006 M50 Blue, Jardine Slash Cuts w/custom baffles (courtesy of BlueM50Chick), Saddleman Profiler Seat, Memphis Shades Poptop shield, Tour Master saddle and fork bags, Küryakyn Dually ISO-Pegs, Stebel Airhorn.

04-25-2007, 06:27 PM	#6 (permalink)
baum604 Seat Tester Joined: Feb 2006 Bike: '03 Honda shadow 750 Spirit Location: Southwest PA Posts: 58	I have an HJC (sorry don't know the model, but one of the cheaper ones), it fits nice, but it is noisy. I also have a Zeus modular helmet, but the lower padding around the jaw ends further back on the side. So when I ride, the wind pushes back the helmet a little and feels like the wind is going to twist the helmet under my chin. Bought the same size as my other one, and is snug on my head, but the design of the helmet just may not fit my head properly. The feature of being able to raise the front is nice, especially if you have to go through checkpoints and they have to see your face. My next helmet will be an Arai Quantum II. Tried my friends helmet and it was quiet, cool and comfortable. Kind of pricey tho. __________________ Why am I here posting? I should be out riding! Last edited by baum604; 04-25-2007 at 06:30 PM.

04-25-2007, 06:35 PM	#7 (permalink)
GregR1 ... Joined: Mar 2007 Posts: 2,308	so far, i like most of the CL-12 except when speeds get beyond 45mph since the wind noise gets a bit tiresome and downright loud, and now that i think about it the visor doesn't close down with a nice positive click - i sometimes realize that it is open by one notch on one side and it leaves a crack through which wind gets right it. kinda irritating since i then have to reach up and shove it closed again. obviously, in autocross / autoslalom, these things were never an issue edit - looks like i'll be scoping out the local shops tomorrow and friday looking at fits and whatnot. local store is supposed to have a sale on may 5th on their shark and kbc in-stock buckets (though their wording makes it sound like it's 40% off for the ladies versions). dunno if it's worth to wait and check out those brands.... Last edited by GregR1; 04-25-2007 at 06:48 PM.

04-25-2007, 06:45 PM	#8 (permalink)
NorthernYankee Seat Tester Joined: Feb 2007 Bike: 2005 Suzuki M50 Location: Mullica Hill, NJ Posts: 79	I have a HJC CL-SP...fits my round head perfect, much better than the Arai's and Shoei's I was trying out. Here is a great review of it. HJC CL-SP - webBikeWorld __________________ Black 05 M50 - Corbin Stinger-Kurakyn ISO Grips/Throttle Boss/Stiletto Bar Ends-Mapam Forward Controls-Mapam Side Mount License Plate w/Tail Mod-Dynojet PCIII-Tornado Intake. Soon to Come-Custom Exhaust

04-25-2007, 07:40 PM	#10 (permalink)
Scribbles Fourth gear and illegal Joined: Oct 2005 Bike: Looking for a new experience! (last bike--Lt. Blue 2005 S50) Location: The Heart of it All Posts: 742	Z1R Ace 3/4. I tried one modular, a Vega, but it gave me horrible headaches (I had my jaw reconstructed several years ago, and headaches from pressure on my chin or jaw are an issue). I still want a modular helmet, but for now, the Z1R is a great one. Comfortable, and quiet. __________________ -- Scribbles Internet scribblings of a random nature... iPodities

04-25-2007, 09:18 PM	#11 (permalink)
kay Refrigerator Magnet Test Engineer Joined: Oct 2006 Bike: Kawasaki Zephyr750RS, Suzuki GSX-R600, Ducati 999S Location: Crappy Little Island!!! Posts: 3,650	I use the SHOEI X-Eleven. SHOEI is known in Japan to be a really aerodynamic (and therefore quite) helmet. But I only know Suomy other than SHOEI, so can't really compare. Shoei 2007 Between Suomy and SHOEI, I like my SHOEI though.

04-26-2007, 04:58 AM	#14 (permalink)
inspiron Muscle Biker Joined: Jul 2004 Bike: Blue Suzuki GSX 1400 (2003) Location: Canton Basel-Land, Switzerland (47.4493, 7.76536) Posts: 12,073	My helmet is in the M-J.com BLOG from June 2006. http://www.motorcycle-journal.com/20...jim-of-m-jcom/ __________________ There is nothing worse than aggressive stupidity. - Johann Wolfgang von Goethe blog: gsx1400

04-26-2007, 09:35 AM	#15 (permalink)
BlaznBlu Clutch Cadet Joined: Mar 2006 Bike: 2008 Black/Silver GSX650F. 2005 Black M50 with blue ghost flames. Location: West Melbourne, FL Posts: 917	I have a modular HJC Symax which was very good. After taking a rock on the top of my head at 75 MPH, I had to replace my cracked helmet. I looked at a number of helmets, almost went with the Scorpion EXO-700 but agree that it is a PITA to put on and off after being used to a modular helmet. Nolan's never fit me right in the past, but I tried on the Nolan N102 and it felt great. Again, easy to get on and off since it's a modular and has much better ventilation than the HJC. Also appears to have better features to reduce noise than the HJC. It should be arriving today or tomorow. __________________ When we drink, we get drunk. When we get drunk, we fall asleep. When we fall asleep, we commit no sin. When we commit no sin, we go to heaven. So let's all get drunk and go to heaven!

04-26-2007, 10:23 AM	#16 (permalink)
GregR1 ... Joined: Mar 2007 Posts: 2,308	hmm, i'm going through the reviews on wBW and i think i might give the modular / flip-face thing a try... hmm... ponder...

04-26-2007, 10:27 AM	#17 (permalink)
palanon No Significant Other Joined: Apr 2006 Bike: 2003 Bandit 1200S Location: Newmarket, NH Posts: 2,326	Same here Greg. The flip ups are intriguing. Gotta try one at a shop and see...

04-26-2007, 10:39 AM	#18 (permalink)
ORBrit U.B's LoveChild Joined: Oct 2006 Bike: 2007 Suzuki Boulevard S50, 2007 Suzuki Bandit 1250S Location: Eugene, OR Posts: 1,242	I have an HJC-AC12 and it does really well with stability at speed - I can turn my head without too much effort. The noise at freeway cruising can be a little annoying - I may look into geting a helmet skirt to reduce the wind noise. We bought my wife's dad a CL-SP for Christmas which he seems to really like. __________________

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04-26-2007, 01:57 PM	#19 (permalink)
themeatmanlandry Happy-ass Lunatic Joined: Dec 2003 Bike: 2002 Bandit 600S (Black); 2006 GSXR750 (Black) Location: Memphis Posts: 11,423	I have a cheapo Vega. You get what you pay for. The way I figure it, I got the head for cheap, why spend a ton of money on a cover for it? My next helmet, I'll spend a little more. __________________ Go to hell

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