[RydRy]

hi all- wondering what folks think of the various helmets- its a bit overwhelming- I am going to have a sv650 and wonder where to start- I have tried on a few helmets and read what I could- I understand Shoei is a good brand, what do you sugggest? colors, patterns? for visibility- I had thought either a nice ORange Shoei or a Joe Rocket with a bright pattern- anyone know about these? thanks all

[uncle_bernie]

Basically, as far as I’ve been told as long as the helmet is both DOT and Snell approved you should be fine. From what I’ve read Snell has stricter standards. I bought my helmet on sale from the Motorcycle Superstore site for $39.95 and it is both DOT and Snell approved. Someone else may have other more real-worldly advice to give, but, at the very least make sure the helmet has both approvals and is comfortable.

~He who laughs last didn’t get the joke…

[Anonymous]

I’m no expert either, but from all that I’ve read on the subject, I agree with uncle_bernie.

I think all that the big buck Arais and Shoeis etc. have going for them over similarly DoT and Snell approved helmets is snob appeal. You know, BMW riders syndrome…

I have an HJC CL-15 full-face (my second HJC) and am happy with it.

[megaspaz]

Don’t know about your neck of the woods, but here in the California bay area, most stores are pretty lenient on helmet returns. Both of my MSF instructors basically said take a helmet you think you like home with you for the day and try watching TV with it on for a few hours. If you don’t get a headache, you should be good to go. Also make sure on a brand new helmet that it’s kinda tight since over time, the padding inside will settle in and the helmet will fit looser.

For shopping, here in Cali anyway with the lenient returns, if you find a helmet you like, it works in your favor, since you can just grab the model number and shop for price online. I like to support my local store though, so I’ll give them first crack at price matching and if they come reasonably close, I’ll just do biz with them. But like uncle_bernie stated, DOT and Snell approved is the way to go, although legally, the helmet only needs to be DOT approved.

Edit:

And I forgot, if you get a full face shield, make sure you either look for anti-fogging in the list of features or make sure to test the helmet with the breather add-on. Having a visor full of fog while riding is um… not fun…

—
If there’s anything more important than my ego
around, I want it caught and shot now…

[WendySkeleton]

I’ve read some reviews about the GMAX GM68S helmet and it has been positive so far. Plus it is VERY cheap, about $US119.95; seems to me it puts the helmets that Arai and Shoei produce to shame.

http://www.g-max.com/gmax/index.html

EDIT: I have also seen it go for cheaper, plus I believe you get some free helmet gear with it as well.

[AaronMerlot]

I love my Gmax GM58S

[RydRy]

thats what Im looking for- I had thought of the HJKC and good to hear from folks who tried them, Ill also look at the gmax- and a great idea watching tv in it for an idea on comfort

[wishpool]

I started with a Shoei and then had to replace it later. My 2nd and current helmet is a Scorpion 400 series. I gotta say, it was less than half the price of the Shoei and a way better helmet. Never fogs, has great ventilation, and is much more comfortable. They’re definitely worth looking into. I know I’ll be going back to them.

http://www.scorpionusa.com/home.html

[Guinness]

I just bought a Shoei TZR, black, due to the price wasn’t going to spend an extra hundred for silver or more for multi colours. However I tried the HJC and the gmax, and neither of the fit well. I had to buy an XS. From what other riders have told me and what the guys who helped me get the helmet all said the same thing, fit and comfor are the two main things, then wind noise fog and such. You can always buy things to help with the fog or so I’m told. For me it was worth the $280 (can) to protect my noggin, knowing that it fits well. I have yet to get my bike, so to get used to the helmet I ocassionally watch tv with it on like the people above have suggested.

Hope that helps.

Cheers,

[shaggles]

I found a great website with lots of helmet reviews the other day. Here’s a link:

http://www.webbikeworld.com/Reviewed-motorcycle-products/Products.htm

[RydRy]

yeah I found this too and thanks- I think it will hel alot of folks- I got a helmet and rode today, very little noise- its the Z1R- the sites say it is acceptable but I found it fit better than thew shoei tz-r on my head and at 109 so try em on is the message I suppose

[Guinness]

lol I tried 6 or 7 on before I settled. Glad you found one that fits well and one your happy with. Happy Riding.

Cheers

[kirk]

How come nobody mentioned HJC? Reasonably priced, cool graphics, and great fit.

[RydRy]

yeah I think they are right up there- I tried them on and then checked out newenough.com and found them at the insane price- i figure a solid color helmet and then an HJC graphics for fun- they also make JOE ROCKETs new line of helmets as a side- and there are some insane options there- great write up on most reviews too
albeit more pricey
Ryan

[ShannonG]

I find the HJC fits my noggin the best. For under $300 CDN I found one with the full face that flips up and cool tinted glasses INSIDE the visor that are activated by a button on the top of the helmet. Very fighter pilot cool.

[Author]

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