The Sy-Max is a very good helmet, a step up from the CL-Max and predecessor to the Sy-Max II. Here’s what you should know:
Before the current lineup layout, HJC had 3 different trim levels: The AC-series which were their top of the line models and used an aramid reinforced carbon shell. The models in the AC series were the AC-3 half helmet, AC-12 full face helmet, and Sy-Max modular helmet. When the FS line replaced the AC series (which was only a very minor update), the Sy-Max II (called FS-Max overseas) replaced the Sy-Max. Some people say the Sy-Max is better than the Sy-Max II because the II’s have the built in sun visor which while being a nice feature weakens the EPS of the helmet.
Of course back in 2001 HJC wasn’t as big as they are now. They used to be known as the “poor man’s Shoei” because all their designs back then were cheap knockoffs of Shoei helmets like the Syncrotec and X-SP II. Nobody took the brand seriously back then.