recommendations on flip up helmets? [Archive]

fraz

01-19-2005, 04:30 AM

I've been using a Schuberth Concept for the last 6 months or so and I think it's fantastic. Yes there is a little more wind noise when compared to a conventional fullface but as I wear ear plugs the majority of the time that's not really an issue.

Given that I wear glasses I love the abiliity of just being able to slip the helmet on/off wthout removing them plus the drop down sun visor is excellent. Keeps the sun out of your eyes without darkening the instruments/mirrors.

The flip mechanism is dead easy to use one handed, bizarrely I find it harder to operate with the helmet off than on !!! You can also edge the clear visor forward a notch which provides just enough ventaltion (on top of the vents) to stop it from fogging up when moving slowly on cold wet days.

Plus its easy to grab a crafty fag when I stop :D

AgSTreak

01-19-2005, 05:27 AM

I first bought a Nolan open face because I like to wear sunglasses when I ride and don't like the confinement of a full face. I bought a Nolan 100 flip face after hearing open face horror stories. The open face helmet is just gathering dust now. I love my Nolan 100. It's quieter than an the open face, it's easy to get my glasses on and off without taking the helmet off and I can still scratch most itches without stopping. :)

number9

01-19-2005, 06:00 AM

Something about a helmet that opens in the front gives me the bajeebees thinking about the possibility of it coming open in a crash. :eek: A flip-up would be nice but I will stick to my full face for me and especially my wife.

beastie

01-19-2005, 06:36 AM

Regarding the HJC Symax:
"the shell is made of a fiberglass compound with an ABS and polycarbonate chin bar, vs. the polycarbonate shells of some competing brands. The Sy-Max also has an alloy reinforcing structure inside the chin bar, which probably saves weight and may offer more protection than the plastic pieces in other flip-up helmets."

I bought one for my wife and she likes it, although she says it is like looking out a windshield compared to her open face helmet.

I bought one for myself but haven't ridden with it yet. It feels very comfortable. I bought silver metallic as they don't have blue.

Here is the full review:
http://www.webbikeworld.com/Reviewed-motorcycle-products/hjc/symax/

The Nolan also gets good reviews.

tccox

01-19-2005, 07:09 AM

I will repeat

1. A well designed Flip front can be and is as safe and as strong as any helmet, regardless of design

2. I've challanged others to produce "horror" stories about flip front failures causing injuries. Yet to have one person produce one documented case where someone was injured while wearing a Schuberth due to helmet hinge failure, not one.

I am 100% confident in the safety of my Schuberth and thats based on 30 years of working in the engineering field. however, would I buy another one ??? Nope

I find it to be a tad heavy, noisy and seems to restrict vision to the side more than any other helmet I've ever worn.

Bones

01-19-2005, 07:55 AM

Working from Motorcycle Consumer News recommendatinos, I tried the HJC Symax and Nolan 100E. I found the Nolan fit my head better than the HJC or the Shoei RF700 I was replacing. I liked the idea of a metal latching mechanism (plastic in the HJC). I got my Nolan from www.helmetharbor.com for $188.95 to my door.
Bones

John Anthony

01-19-2005, 02:43 PM

I'm also pleased with my Nolan. Comfortable as well as good bang for the buck.

Austin city limits

01-19-2005, 04:47 PM

I have the HJC and really like it... I have put 30,000 miles on my last Sy-Max and it even went with me through the back window of a Cadillac when the Cadillac was doing 30mph,,, and I was doing 50 mph and I SHAZZAMED it from the rear... :eek:

Ok,,, alright,,, no,,, NO,,, I did not lead with my helmet,,, it was more my "Arse'... :rolleyes: BUT,,, I would never go back to a "Full" face,,, and 1/2 helmets are just 1/2 enough...

My wife ordered me a new HJC for my new bike... :D

Nolan didn't fit my XXL head as well... And,,, that is skull,,, not brains you understand... ;)

unSTeady

01-20-2005, 05:38 AM

The one and only!
Me and my head just love the flip-up helmet from Caberg, Italy. It´s called Jusstissimo and has a flip-up sunvisor as well. The noice reduction is awesome and it´s fairly inexpensive, some 2,500 SKR.

Get me some spring soon....

STiscool

01-28-2005, 03:03 PM

I have an AIROH SV55. I have had it about a month now and love the Flip down Sun visor. The very reason I bought the helmet.I had looked at the Schubert in magazines for a long time. I asked in my local bike shop if there were any other manufacturers of flip down sun visors.They recommended the AIOROH.At a cost of 129.99 British pounds I thought it was a bargain. Lately tho, I have ahd a noise issue with it. The chin pads sem to have "Flattened" a bit.I need to look into thicker pads, will do that tomorrow.

Ride Safe.

Pat:beer8: :beer8:

P.S. After a few months now of the noise, the Anti Fog shield gave up. :eek: I have now ordered new cheek pads. "Will arrive any day now.!" Honestly, I am so close to binning it. :mad:

Pat

Fireball18

01-28-2005, 05:50 PM

I have the Nolan N100E. I like it a lot. It's quieter than the Schuberth, and may have a stronger latching and pivoting mechanism than the HJC. The Nolan has stainless steel pivots and latching mechanism. It's very positive. While louder than a full face helmet, it's quieter than the HJC or Schuberth, and it's easier to install helmet headsets in than the Schuberth. It's also a lot cheaper! Nolan now has a newer, updated version that has a sunshield integrated with the face shield. You can also retro fit you "older" N100E with the sunshade. I don't think there's much other difference between the two. I"d go with another Nolan. In defence of the Schuberth, it probably has a better helmet shell than the others, but the real protection is in the EPS foam liner, so I'm not concerned about it.

The Highwayman

01-28-2005, 08:49 PM

Always been a Shoei fullface man, never had a flip front, but I am interested in them. I tried a Nolan on at a show and I wasn't impressed by the feel. I like the Shoei Sycrotec, but it is a dated design that needs a refresh. A friend has a Symax and likes it a lot. I noticed KBC has a new flip front, the FFR...

http://www.kbc-helmet.com/helmet/h_images/ffr_isilver.jpg

KBC (http://www.kbc-helmet.com/)

I'd like to check the helmet out in person, but I like the look and seems to have good features...

Northern Rob

02-06-2005, 10:15 AM

John Anthony

02-06-2005, 11:21 AM

Thanks everyone for your suggestions. I'm going to head down to Seattle in the next couple of weeks and see how the Nolan and Schuberth fit my head. There aren't any dealers around Vancouver that carry these brands.
Rob - Ride West, a Beamer dealership in northeast Seattle, has a pretty good supply of Nolan and Schuberths in stock so it's a good place to go if you want to do side by side comparisons. Schuberth is coming out with a new line that's lighter and Ride West is discounting the existing stock by $100. The new helmets will be going for something like $600US. Both my wife and I ride and we spent about an hour talking with one of their salesmen. This guy said they've had lots of problems with the mechanics on the Schuberths. The flip down sun screen is plagued.

basco

02-06-2005, 12:54 PM

I have both the Nolan 100E and the Symax. For me the Nolan fits better but also the Nolan is better on wind noise, the locking mechanism is better. On the down side, switching shields is easier on the Symax, and the Nolan fogs up a lot.

Northern Rob

02-06-2005, 01:09 PM

I was under the impression that the HJC Symax was no longer made and has been replaced with the cheaper plastic shell CL-Max. At least that's what the local shops are telling me in Canada. Is it still available in the US?
Thanks for the lead on Ride West. I'll be sure to check them out when I'm down there.

basco

02-06-2005, 01:20 PM

toad

02-14-2005, 11:42 AM

My main helmet is a RF-1000...I too was very intrigued with the Schubert Concept and bought mine from Helmet Harbor (great folks - I highly recommend them!).

The Schubert runs small. In my case...I wear an XL in the Shoei but with the Schubert I have a XXXL and its a wee bit tight. I initially ordered the XXL from Harbor...it was way to small and they swapped it out for me very quickly with no hassles what so ever...good good vendor to work with.

I have ridden with the Schubert extensively...and found a couple of deal breakers with it. First the flip down sun visor is trick...but for my head/eyes...it doesnt come down quite far enough. The helmet is HOT. Living in Oklahoma and riding frequently in 100 degree temps...this helmet WILL melt your brain. This may be due to the fact that even the largest Schubert is still a bit tight...perhaps it is messing with the venting system? *shrug* I also wasnt thrilled with the optics on the visor...it looks a little distorted in places. Admittingly I am very hinky about this type of issue...it may not bother others at all.

On the plus side the flip up mechanism is killer. Very easy to operate and it feels very secure. I do love the neck seal on this helmet...but only when the temps dip. For me the Schubert is just too hot above about 70 degrees. This helmet is very well made to my eye...and I feel very confident wearing it.

I would advise anyone interested in this helmet to try one on before you buy...and if possible to ride with it first. Technically I love the helmet...but as for fit and feel...I leave it on the shelf in my garage...so that should tell ya something.

For what its worth...

farblue1

02-14-2005, 10:01 PM

I've had the Nolan for three or four years now and still love it , has to be the most comfortable brain bucket I've had . The only problem is getting it to wear out so I can get a blue one . :04biker:
Dan

basco

02-15-2005, 06:57 AM

The new '05 Nolan X-lite 1002's are out and I might just get me one.

http://www.rlmotorcycles.com/home/images/X-1002%20w-VPS.gif

Check this site out
Link (http://www.rlmotorcycles.com/home/Accessories/Nolan.htm)

alan

02-15-2005, 03:19 PM

I'm on my fourth year with the Schubert and I really like the flip up sun visor, that's what sold me on the helmet. I dislike wearing sun glasses, so the sun visor is great for me. My helmet is white and I do not find it excessivly hot. I have crossed Kansas on I-70 with the temps in the mid 90's and was comfortable. White is the color of choice if you want high visability and the best heat reflectability. White may not be the snazziest color but it will run the coolest from a temperature standpoint.

mattiesettlement

02-23-2005, 07:36 AM

I have a Nolan flip-up and I am also thinking of getting the Nolan X-lite X-1002 new for 2005 flip-up. It looks like it has an integrated sun-shield. I love the Nolan I have now. :hotpepper

Keith_UK

02-23-2005, 10:31 AM

Hey Rob - I took delivery of 2 x Nolan N101 - X1002 (aka: Vintage VPS) helmets yesterday, Tuesday Feb 22. Just been on my first short ride-out wearing one of these new lids. I have never owned a full-face or a flip-up before, so this was a new experience for me (I have worn Nolan open-faced helmets 'till now, but realise that these are not the safest type of lid, to say the least!)

These new flip-up Nolans are lightweight and very comfortable indeed; a super helmet. But I did notice that there is considerably more windblast noise around the hinge mechanism area, which is more or less directly above the wearer's ear location. I guess this quite noticeable noise must be expected, insofar as standard full-face helmets – or indeed open-face versions – do not come with a hinge mechanism, so there is a little less turbulence around the sides of these traditional alternatives.

Just my two pennies worth. In short, the new Nolan N101 flip-up is a really good piece of kit, but I might now need to consider wearing earplugs to dampen down the extra noise.

Keith (UK)

beastie

02-23-2005, 12:03 PM

Keith,

Are you saying that the flip-up Nolan is noiser than an open face?????

I ask because my wife and I have always worn open face, but have just purchased 2 new HJC Symax flip-ups. I bought them after reading the horror stories of crashes and face injuries. I haven't worn mine yet, so I don't know what to expect except I might feel like I am looking out a gun port.

don :hun1:

EdsST

02-23-2005, 12:48 PM

I've had the Nolan for 2 years now and will replace it with another with the time comes. Looking to see if the Wine color one is the same or real close the "red 05" color.

Those switching to flip ups need to be alert to the noise level. They are a lot noisier than full face. Safety wise I don't think there is a difference between a quality flip up and full face

basco

02-23-2005, 07:08 PM

Have you used it in the rain? Not the best helmet in the wet stuff.

basco

02-23-2005, 07:17 PM

Maybe before one chooses a flip up read this article. Its been around awhile but its interesting reading. Nolan was mentioned to be good protection and was rated low because one tester thought it was uncomforable to wear

http://www.motorcyclecruiser.com/accessoriesandgear/fliphelmets/

Keith_UK

02-24-2005, 03:50 AM

Don, By all accounts the HJC Symax flip-ups are really good helmets; you've made another wise purchase there.

I stuck with Nolans because I've had them before, so I know that the Large size will fit me like a glove. The Small size is also a perfect fit for my SO.

My [now] old Nolans are open face jobs, but just like you, safety-wise I just don't have confidence in this style anymore, particularly after reading those horror stories (I like my chin just the way it is ... doesn't need modifying by an unfortunate accident!).

Yesterday, on my first ride-out with the new Nolan flip-up - which was just around town by the way - I didn't get above around 45 mph. But around 40 mph the increase in wind-blast noise was very noticeable indeed, much more than my open-face, which never got noticeably noisy until I reached around 65 mph.

The thought of living more "inside" a helmet made me think that I might get a bit claustrophobic, but this is not the case. Vision is not impaired at all, and I actually feel far more secure when the chin guard is down and locked.

Despite the new Nolans "Fog Resistant System", I also feared that the visor might fog-up with my nasal breath. Well it does, but only a little, and then only when wearing it in a stationery position, e.g. stopped at traffic light. The answer is to open the visor about half-an-inch (to the first or second 'click'), and any fogging then disappears immediately. When you pick-up speed again the ventilating system deals with any potential fogging-up. So the visor can be shut again when moving forward.

In summary, the advantage of better protection; the various combinations of visor up -or- down; chin-guard up or locked-down, etceteras, far outweigh the disadvantage of a little extra noise, which I can deal with one way or another.

Executive summary: A real good buy - glad I've got them (also like the cool 'Darth Vader' look!).

Regards

Keith (UK)

basco

02-24-2005, 06:11 AM

Thats too bad about the Nolan for you. Just the same with the Symax with me. I can use it for about a couple hours before the pain starts. During the rain the water just pours down and does not follow the visor, it ends up in my face. Maybe not with you, I had the standard 03 without the motorized windshield and the is lower than the motorized ones. So you might have more protection in the rain.

tdeboeser

02-24-2005, 06:39 AM

I recently got my first flip open, last fall. I did a fair amount of research and ended up with the Jarow X2. It was $100 less than the Schuberth has the same features. It has good reviews, the only con was I couldn't find one to try on. They were hard to find, actullaly not hard to find but hard to find in stock somewhere. Seeing as they seemed to be popular I thought if I didn't like it or had issues, I could always ebay it.
Well i'm not gonna ebay it. The quality is excellent, solid build, and comfortable for me. It is big, SWMBO LOL'ed the first time I put it on, and the anti-fog doesn't work that well.

I got it from http://www.aerostich.com/riderwearhouse.store

Tom de - newbie ST'er
03 ST1300

Fireball18

02-24-2005, 10:13 PM

All the flip front helmets are noisier than the full faced helmets, simply because of the hinge mechanism on each side. No getting around that. I always wear earplugs, so the noise is a non-issue with me. I used to ride Gold Wings for years, and I didn't wear earplugs, and felt I didn't need to. When I got the ST, I noticed right off that it was a noisier bike to ride than the Wing. Wearing earplugs took a bit to get used to, but now I don't give it any thought, and the ambient noise from the bike and the wind is only slight.

From what little research I've done, it seems that the Nolan is about the best value for dollar spent, and is about the quietest of the flip front helmets. The HJC is apparently one of the noisiest, topped only by the first edition of the Schuberth helmets. I don't understand how an open face helmet could be quieter than a flip front, but perhaps it may be. I've never used one, so I can't say for sure.

I almost bought a Jarrow Mono X2, but it was about $100.00 more than the Nolan N100E, at the time, and a bit heavier. I didn't think the drop down sun visor was worth the extra $$$. I've never read any real report on the Jarrow that I thought was very objective, as most of the magazine reports seem to indicate that all products tested are good. Makes brownie points with the manufacturers who advertise in the magazines. The Jarrow fit well, much like the Nolan. I only balked at the price. I'd consider one when the time comes to replace my Nolan, but for now, I really like my Nolan.

basco

03-06-2005, 08:08 PM

Well I can say that the Nolan X-lite helmet is great. Rode about 100 miles in it and no problems. First day the forehead was hurting a bit after an hour but bearable. Today I wore a liner underneath and no problems. Probably one of the seams must have moved while putting on the helmet. My head frose too and thought this can't be right so I checked the vent and was pushed in. So I can say it has good ventilation and its quiet compared to the Nolan 100E and the Symax.

beastie

03-07-2005, 09:34 AM

Swambo and I rode for a few hours this weekend, both wearing our new Symaxes. Very comfortable and quieter than our open face helmets. Intercom seemed to work as well or better due, I guess, to the boom mics being in the chin bar. The cheek pads are quite tight. Our local BMW dealer says we can get different pads for about $8/set. I am going to put my XL pads in Swambo's M helmet and see how she likes it. If she does, I will try XXL in mine. The tight cheek pads are my only negative about the Symax. It fits my skull well.

THREEDFLYER

04-22-2005, 11:47 PM

I own the HJC Symax and it's very comfortable. I too wear glasses and the flip up is the only full face I will wear.

I prefer to ride with a 3/4 or open face....especially in the summer. I usually wear my PANOPTX glasses when using the 3/4 helmet.

Cyclebarn in Lynnwood, WA has a great selection of helmets as well.

Good luck with your search!

Dale_I

04-23-2005, 12:56 AM

My wife and I both got Symax's last week. Comfy, noiser than full face, but not obnoxiously so. No rain riding yet. The Symax only uses one shell size for all the helmet sizes, so changing out padding, in effect, gives you different sized helmets. Good venting. Only fogged up once in 40 degree weather at a street light. I opened the chin bar vent and she cleared right up.

The Nolan I tried on was quite a bit smaller from front to back. It had my chin very close to the chin bar, which also made it fog up a lot more. All in all, happy with our purchase. Got them for $168 each from Motorcycle Emporium.

Mellow

04-23-2005, 03:38 AM

Some of the guys on the goldwing site I've been looking at like the Vega Summit.. It's only $129 and webbikeworld did a review here (http://www.webbikeworld.com/r2/motorcycle-helmet/vega/summit-xpv.htm).

Splat Hat (http://www.splathat.com/helmets/modular/summit/summit.shtml#bigImg) (never dealt with this site before) has them and in what appears to be very close ST colors (I think the titanium is actually closer to the ST silver than the Silver listed).

The reviews on this helmet basically say it's VERY similar in sizing and fit to the HJC Symax with a little extra room between the chin bar and your chin...

I'm going to try and pain my current fullface to match the new Wing but if I botch that up... I'll get this helmet.
http://www.splathat.com/helmets/modular/summit/5500-11.jpg http://www.splathat.com/helmets/modular/summit/5500-32.jpg http://www.splathat.com/helmets/modular/summit/5500-27.jpg
Don't let the price fool you, all the reviews I could find say this design, albeit cheap, is one of the better ones and very quiet.

Titansrick

04-23-2005, 10:03 AM

I bought a Vega helmet, and am very impressed. It was the closest to the color of the 05 st1300 I could find. It was also half the price of the HJC.
It is very comfortable. When I put the my old HJC on the other day, it started hurting my head.
Rick

Carl_T

04-23-2005, 10:50 AM

For myself, the next helmet I buy will be the lightest snell approve full coverag I can afford. CASCI's blurb on possible eye socket injuries are enough to have me stick with my old standby the full coverage. Perhaps too conservative a view, but it's the one I'll be sticking with for the time being.

Perhaps when the manufacturers create some flip ups that get submitted and pass snell, I'll reconsider, maybe.

basco

04-23-2005, 10:59 AM

Austin city limits

04-23-2005, 12:29 PM

Highwayman~~~

Thanks for the heads up on the KBC... I do like the looks of that helmet!!!

The Symax I still love but,,, will give that a look first time I see one...

Dale_I

04-23-2005, 04:23 PM

The difference between the Symax and the Summit is material. Where the Symax is Fiberglass/Kevlar, which will absorb an impact, the Summit is Poly, which will bounce or deflect an impact. Having been down 5 times on crotch rockets, I'll take the absorption any day.

Killtimer

04-23-2005, 04:47 PM

<RANT MODE>

Something that's gotten lost in this discussion is the fact that the best/cheapest/coolest/newest/whatever feature helmet isn't worth a **** if it dos not fit right. Buying an ill fitting helmet just to save a few bucks is Darwin at his best IMNSHO. Proper fit is my first criteria, features second. Snell rating and price are dead last in no order.

I think Snell may be relevant for track situations and I wear a Snell rated helmet on the track. Urban legends aside, I've yet to see a well documented situation in which a properly fitted, fastened flip front failed in real life. From what I've read, the only reason that there is no Snell rated flip front is that none of the manufacturers have submitted one for testing. Speculate on their reasons if you want.

<RANT MODE OFF>

And now back to your regular programming. :)

Steve

EdsST

04-23-2005, 06:11 PM

Here a link to a comparison

http://motorcyclecruiser.com/accessoriesandgear/

sherob

04-23-2005, 06:24 PM

I've purchased 3 helmets from splathat... the are great and easy to work with... they actually answer the phone and don't give you BS. They deliver when promised and their prices include shipping! :D

sherob

04-23-2005, 08:12 PM

\OFF THREAD
I wear a Symax Flipup, my second flipup type helmet... fit is perfect... I feel safe in it... it is lighter than ther other one I have. I wear glasses, so it makes my life easier being a flipup. When I pay for gas, or run into a store real quick, I can just flip it up, don't have to take it off... european police wear them, so I feel it is good for me.

Compared to the half helmets I used to wear on my cruiser, this is a more comfortable feeling... safer for me.

And yes, I've heard the "rumors"... but have yet to see a real case of it failing and the hinge causing the injury.
\THREAD

That is a nice helmet as I said before... but I like my Symax. Rain... got caught in a downpour, Houston style... had it opened a crack... yes it dripped a couple of times, but not enough to be a bother :)

Carl_T

04-23-2005, 08:22 PM

I think I'd wet myself if I had to ride any distance in a 3/4 helmet. :rolleyes:

A half helmet would put all systems into immobile standby mode. :eek: I've never purchased anything but full coverage, both rider and passenger.

Apples for you, oranges for me. I never did figure my head was worth anymore at the track than it is on the street.

I admit the flip up looks really convenient. I guess no helmet is super convenient. As you said, everyone has their own comfort level. You guys are real nice testing the flip up safety out for me though. :) ;) :D

sherob

04-23-2005, 09:13 PM

You guys are real nice testing the flip up safety out for me though. :) ;) :D

Glad to be of service! :D When snow tires come out, let me know how those work out for you... :D

coldoughboy

04-23-2005, 10:12 PM

Regarding the HJC Symax: Unfortunately, I know first hand that the HJC open-faced helmet works very well. I am on my second one ( I was wearing the first one when I went down). I think that they are very confortable and work very well. My only small complaint is that I believe they are not as quiet as some of the more expensive ones.

basco

04-24-2005, 12:28 PM

For flipups, I have the:

1. symax - comfortable, wind and rain protection non-existant
2. Nolan 100E - way comfortable, better rain protection, wind the same
3. Nolan X-lite - corfortable after riding 300 miles and a liner. Way better wind and rain protection the symax and 100E together and its a poly helmet.

The X-lite is well worth it.

Killtimer

05-05-2005, 08:20 PM

Just stumbled across THIS (http://www.motorcyclecruiser.com/accessoriesandgear/fliphelmets/) . Good reviews and some test results.

Steve

basco

05-06-2005, 02:49 PM

Just stumbled across THIS (http://www.motorcyclecruiser.com/accessoriesandgear/fliphelmets/) . Good reviews and some test results.

Steve

The report has been out for awhile. What is strange in the is they said, "For the motorcyclists who wants the best protection in this crowd, we suggest looking at the Nolan, Lazer or Shoei". But they give the Symax a higher rating than the Nolan and don't really say much good about the Symax.

To me the Nolan is a much better helmet. I have a X-lite, Nolan 100E and a Symax. The Symax doesn't get used anymore and the 100E is a spare.

NormanPCN

05-06-2005, 06:06 PM

The report has been out for awhile. What is strange in the is they said, "For the motorcyclists who wants the best protection in this crowd, we suggest looking at the Nolan, Lazer or Shoei". But they give the Symax a higher rating than the Nolan and don't really say much good about the Symax.

The letter score, a-f, does not factor in the lab impact tests. The score is basically a user opinion of the fit/finish/features/etc of the helmet.

IntruderCruiser

08-13-2005, 09:24 AM

I have a HJC flip up -- bought a flip up because I really like riding with an open face -- but know that full are safer --

Talked to a couple of people and they liked the HJC --

what I found

1) the HJC is noisier in the closed position than open

2) when open, and the visor is open -- the wind really moves your head around -- open with visor shut -- not bad

3) don't notice much from the socalled cooling vents -- but they may be because I ride with a windscreen

4) when in the full faced position, the visor does not want to stay where you put it -- I like to ride with it open a bit.

In conclusion -- I will look for a different helmet when this one is getting worn

I really like the Ghibli (full face)I used for years -- winter time riding --
I really liked the Shoei (open face) I had for summer riding

belladad

09-25-2005, 03:50 PM

I have a Zeus flip hemet 508. Very comfortable and easy to use. You can buy any size and color on ebay new for $ 89.00 freight paid. I like the one I have so much, intend to order 2 more.

kingprawnokay

09-25-2005, 04:08 PM

Fireball18

09-27-2005, 08:56 AM

I can only add this, regarding the protection abilities of a flip-front helmet. I have two friends who have gone down while wearing flip-frnt helmets. One wearing a Nolan N100E and the other an HJC Symax. Both went down hard and at highway speed--55-ish mph. In both cases the helmets completely protected the face of each rider and neither suffered any head or faciel injuries, nor did either have injury(s) to their necks. In each case, the flip front portion was down and latched, and in both case, stayed latched and secure. Both helmets were totalled, obviously, and have been replaced with new flip-front helmets.

You can take this FWIW, but it seems to me to be a pretty good testament as to the protective qualities of a flip-front helmet.

Kempo-STer

09-27-2005, 09:39 AM

Did you all read the Motorcyclist Helmet comparo? The Snell rating doesn't necessarily indicate a "safer" helmet. I think the Snell foundation probably means well, but, unfortunately, manufacturers are using certification to raise prices.

I have an Nolan N100E (DOT) and a Roof Boxer (ECE standards, tougher than DOT).

Hey Kevin,
That Boxer helmet..Didn't some of the weapons officers on the ill-fated Space Station in Star Wars have these?? If its good enough for the Empire than it may be good enough for me. :D

What Kind of Helmets wore worn by the Storm troopers that were on them speeder bike do-hickeys on Endor in Return of the Jedi?? I think they had built in sun shades and communication systems as well. NOW THAT would be great..A Moldeled Helmet in the shape of the storm trooper or Darth Vader (or Dark Helmet from Spaceballs)..
How can a cop DARE give Darth Vader a ticket!!

Seriously folks..I have a Symax (For 2 years) and fit is good, mechanically it works fine.

Things I don't like: Wind will catch the visor and push it closed.. I sometimes like to ride with it open but the mechanism is weak and the wind overpowers it.

Second and most important..Ventilation system...WHAT ventilation system..Sucker is NON-existant..I get no air, especially through the tiny port on the top..

Right now I will replace it next season and looking at the Nolan XLite and the Caberg Jutissimo (Sp?) that is available through Aerostitch.com

hig4s

09-27-2005, 10:44 AM

tolvey

10-14-2005, 09:28 PM

I picked up a KBC FFR several months ago after getting tired of rubbing my ears raw from the constant on and off of my full-face Aria during group rides. I liked the KBC better than the HJC because the hinges/latches are metal, the visor has a good incremental system that's smooth but doesn't slip, you can pull and wash the padding and it's price is close to the HJC. I do wear ear plugs. And to the point about safety of any full coverage verses 3/4 quarter..you really do want full coverage. You don't need a test result to understand the issue.

kingprawnokay

10-14-2005, 09:51 PM

Not only that,, but the Boxer meets the ECE standards for FULLFACE helmets, the rest of the flipups meet DOT standards as openface helmets but do not pass the fullface standards. Unfortunatly Boxers are not sold in the US as far as I can find and from Europe with shipping the best price I've found is $435.

http://www.webbikeworld.com/r2/roof-helmet/roof-boxer/

http://www.designerhelmets.com/prodlist.php?cat=Roof&prod=R05+Boxer

Yep. Boxer's are sperior, and expensive. No vents, but I love mine (I think there is a "vent kit"). Designer Helmets is the place to buy if you want one. I've been using my Nolan lately though.

hig4s

10-15-2005, 03:13 PM

Yep. Boxer's are sperior, and expensive. No vents, but I love mine (I think there is a "vent kit"). Designer Helmets is the place to buy if you want one. I've been using my Nolan lately though.

How do the sizes run?

I wear a medium in most helmets,,

I figure my next new bike I will get $1k extra on the loan and order two Boxers. One for me and one for the wife.

Thanks.

kingprawnokay

10-15-2005, 03:42 PM

How do the sizes run?

I wear a medium in most helmets,,

I figure my next new bike I will get $1k extra on the loan and order two Boxers. One for me and one for the wife.

Thanks.

It is a little scary because you need to order a Boxer to try one on. However, you'll probably wear a "medium" Boxer as well. I feel that Roof's sizes run pretty much right on the money, but some say they run slightly large. My head is rather large at 7 1/4 to 7 1/2 inches around (depending on hair style) and I wear a "large" Boxer. My Nolan N100E is also a size "large".

I read this before I bought my Boxer:
www.webbikeworld.com/r2/roof-helmet/roof-boxer/

Louie Louie

11-28-2005, 10:29 PM

I've used a HJC A-3 for a couple years but I'm also considering a full helmet as well. Thanks for posting this!

Blue STreak

11-29-2005, 07:56 AM

In 2001 I started sport touring (ST1100) and promply bought a Shoei Syncrotech, fits well, is safe and relatively quiet even without earplugs. My wife (Scout) wears a similar helmet made by Arai as we couldn't get a comfortable fit in a Shoei.

What Arai are you referring to? I'm not aware of Arai ever making a flip-face helmet like the Synchrotec.

First insist on a proper fit then buy at the top end, if you can't afford the top end, don't ride, your life may depend on your decision.

Can't agree here. Yes, avoid the real cheapo buckets, but any Snell helmet will offer good protection, even an $89 or $99 Korean or Chinese made one. And any DOT helmet from a reputable manufacturer will offer good protection as well. And no helmet, at any price, is guaranteed to prevent injuries in every forseeable accident.

Lucky 13

01-11-2006, 02:13 AM

The KBC FFR looks pretty interesting to me. Competition Accessories seems to have the best price so far. Anybody know of any good helmet dealers in Canada?

sherob

01-11-2006, 07:07 AM

The KBC FFR looks pretty interesting to me. Competition Accessories seems to have the best price so far. Anybody know of any good helmet dealers in Canada?

You might want to look at the review on www.webbikeworld.com... they didn't like it very much :nuke1: <==== love that emoticon :D

Lucky 13

01-11-2006, 10:02 AM

Thanks. They had some pretty good things to say about the Vega. Too bad it isn't twice the price, it'd probably be more popular!

stillsman

01-11-2006, 11:02 AM

I really wanted to get one of these until I read this at http://motorcycleinfo.calsci.com/
He has a ton of information on a ton of subjects. I cut out the following from his helmet article.

I have never owned one of these new flip-open helmets, most notably the HJC, Nolan, and Schuberth. None of the flip-open helmets have been submitted to Snell for testing. I now believe this is because the manufacturers know that the helmets will fail the test. I have heard several stories now about people crashing in flip-open helmets and getting eye socket damage and concussions - in one case, a personal friend of mine. My friend had what seemed to be a relatively minor side impact on his head - the helmet was barely scarred at all. However, at the hospital he fell into a coma for three days, and was confused for another couple of weeks. He required two surgerys to repair his eye sockets so that his eyes would stay in his head. Frankly, his story really shook me up and I started investigating these helmets much more closely. I was not impressed with what I learned.

The shell of the flip-open helmets apparently work just fine. I have no indication that these helmets tend to open in a crash and expose your face. However, the hinge mechanism in flip-open helmets takes up space that in any other helmet would be shock- absorbing EPS styrofoam protecting your temples. The hinge mechanism intrudes into the impact-absorbing liner in the temple area. If you hit the side of your head on the ground (quite common in a fall) the hinge mechanism can hit your temple hard enough to break your skull. As they say in Ghostbusters, this would be bad.

I spoke at length with the people at the Snell institute about this topic (7/04). They have never had a flip-open helmet submitted to them for certification, and therefore have never tested one, nor have they paid much attention to them. They found my statement, that flip-open helmets can cause temple damage, quite interesting. I learned from them that essentially all helmet manufacturers have in-house testing facilities and do a very good job of this. They named three companies in particular who do a superlative job; all three make flip-open helmets. I was told that the manufacturers can perform the Snell certification tests just as well as Snell can, so they know well in advance if they are going to pass.

Snell and DOT testing is performed with a magnesium dummy head in the helmet. The magnesium head has one accelerometer located at the center of gravity. This means the accelerometer cannot test for twisting forces, and it can only record the average impact force on the head, the force averaged over the entire surface of the magnesium head. There is no way this device could record a sharp impact on a small area, such as might occur if the hard plastic hinge mechanism hit the magnesium skull. The Snell and DOT tests have separate tests for the shell, to see that they resist penetration by sharp objects. The tests are not designed to record if a small hard object already inside the shell hits your head. So, it turns out that Snell and DOT tests are not very sensitive to an impact from a hinge mechanism.

None the less, it's interesting that none of the flip-open helmets have ever been submitted to Snell for independent testing. Some of the companies that make these helmets pay to have essentially all of their other street helmets certified, but not the flip-open in particular. I find this exceedingly suspicious.

Louie Louie

01-25-2006, 11:37 AM

Working from Motorcycle Consumer News recommendatinos, I tried the HJC Symax and Nolan 100E. . I got my Nolan from www.helmetharbor.com for $188.95 to my door.
Bones

Would you still have a copy of MCN or know what issue it was?
Thanks

pmorritt

01-28-2006, 12:52 PM

Medicine Bear

01-28-2006, 02:32 PM

For the life of me I can't find any references online for Nolan dealers in the Houston area. I know Cycle Gear doesn't carry them. I want to try one on. All the online dealers want a restock fee if you don't like it and return it. Does anyone know of a dealer within a half day's riding distance that carries the N102?

Fred :03biker:

sherob

01-28-2006, 03:15 PM

Call HoH... I think they have them in their showroom ;) They have hundreds of helmets... I think I saw Nolans when I was walking the isles :cool:

Medicine Bear

01-28-2006, 03:54 PM

Call HoH... I think they have them in their showroom ;) They have hundreds of helmets... I think I saw Nolans when I was walking the isles :cool:
Unfortunately, they don't carry Nolan. :( Thanks for trying...

Fred :03biker:

Northern Rob

01-28-2006, 06:04 PM

Rob, have a Schuberth, bought in 2000. 400 bucks and not worth a damn. Very noisy, wouldn't fit into bags on the Ducati st4 and the rain got in. 2005-bought the fast ST (red) and tried out many helmets. Nolan 100 Classic/flip. Wow, what a difference! Easy to flip (so is the Shchuberth), very comfortable, very quiet, no water past the visor, large ear sockets, fits into saddle bags and $195 on-line.
BTW, I will be riding up to Vancouver in late April, good buddy there (False Creek)-he doesn't ride. Spoke to Horst and possibly set up a meet at Carter Honda and go for a ride. The More the Merrier.

Ya, the only one I haven't tried is the Nolan. I'm holding out for that before I decide. Have to go to Seattle to find a dealer. Schuthbert made me feel claustrophobic. Never had that before. Its definitely off my list.

Late April sounds good for a visit. Carter Honda's not far from work.

Big Red

01-28-2006, 11:29 PM

I found out one of the limiting factors to any flip up or full face helmet design is the way it fits your noggin; for instance, I can't wear a Shoei Syncrotec because my chin contacts the inside of the chin bar when I lock the face plate down

pmorritt

01-29-2006, 06:46 PM

Ya, the only one I haven't tried is the Nolan. I'm holding out for that before I decide. Have to go to Seattle to find a dealer. Schuthbert made me feel claustrophobic. Never had that before. Its definitely off my list.

Late April sounds good for a visit. Carter Honda's not far from work.

Definately try out the Nolan b4 buying--size it and get on-line.
I will be e-mailing Horst with date of my trip and meet for a ride. He likes Saturdays. Hope to meet some Canadian ST'ers and a good days ride. BTW-rain doesn't stop me. E-mail pmorritt@lojack.com

japer37

01-29-2006, 08:25 PM

I have the CL-Max and like itwell. However, I believe the Nolan is better quality and offers slightly better wind noise reduction.

Louie Louie

01-31-2006, 11:55 AM

What is the difference between the Symax and the CL max?

sherob

01-31-2006, 06:59 PM

What is the difference between the Symax and the CL max?

Symax... newer model, better venting, speaker pockets... the shell is different too IIRC ;)

sherob

01-31-2006, 07:00 PM

What color are you looking for?

FYI...

http://www.st-owners.com/forums/showthread.php?p=89673#post89673

Northern Rob

03-04-2006, 06:15 PM

Well this Friday I finally took a day off work and went down to Seattle to try out the various Nolan flip up lids. Got some good help from the people at the local BMW shop. Also got to try the Nolan back to back with the NEW Shuthbert C2.

Shuthbert has come a long way from the model I tried earlier. Best finish and hinge safety mechanism I've seen by far on all the flip lids. However, it doesn't fit the shape of my head right, so that's that. For those of you still looking, and you almost liked the earlier Shuthbert models...the new C2 is worth a re-look.

I ended up with the Nolan N102, which just came out recently and is like the X-Lite (sun visor, new lock mechanism etc..) but made of policarbonate instead of fiberglass. Also $100 cheaper.

So far only had a chance to ride it in the city on a sunny day at low speeds. And so far, I'm happy. Will post again after some speed, rain, hail, locusts, bird flu etc..

BentAero

03-14-2006, 03:08 PM

At Daytona last week my wife and I tried on every modular/flip-up we could find. (which wasn't many for that venue)

A previous poster mentioned something along the line of 'if it doesn't fit properly, it doesn't matter how much it cost'.

We found in trying on these units, the vast difference in fit characteristics.

The new HJC FFR just flat did not fit either of us at all.

The Nolan N-102 didn't feel right either.

However the X-1002 (the 'older' more expensive one) felt as if it were custom tailored just for me. It definitely had the WOW on fit for me. The other immediately noticed thing was how incredibly quiet the ambient noise was. That thing was so much quieter than my Icon full-face I couldn't believe it. The hollow for the ear completely enclosed my ears sort of acting like over-the-head hearing protectors. I had to pay attention to what the rep was saying because I couldn't hear him well with it on. Do you suppose this holds true at freeway speeds?

We talked at length with him (we were at the Nolan Distributor booth) about why the X-1002 fit so well and the 102 did not. He said the shell is of a completely different shape. The N-102 being designed for the "american" shape head, and the X1002 being of european design for their 'average' head shape. He jokingly said I must be of euro decent. Apparently american heads are more 'round' and euro heads are longer and narrower, as is mine.

Anyway, I've made up my mind on what I'm going to buy. After spending
$400. on two new TourMaster 'Flex' jackets just minutes prior, I couldn't stomach another $800. for two new helmets just then. I forget where, but I saw them on someones website for $350. each. this morning. As long as I get 'em before the STAR rally I'll be happy.

decompressing

03-21-2006, 11:57 AM

I've had 2 Schuberth C1 flip-up helmets....the second one I bought last year and I don't know why, but I did find it noisier than the previous one...it bugged me so much in the end that when I changed from the ST1100 to the ST1300 I treated myself to a Concept 2 and I can confirm that it is very, very much quieter than the C1....

Marc

GI_Alan

04-27-2006, 12:39 PM

I just got a Nolan 102 and I really like it. It's really easy to open and close, the vents are great, and the chinstrap is super easy. I got it from a local BMW dealer in Depere, WI for $255 out the door

STeve1300

04-27-2006, 01:01 PM

The Helmet Shop (http://www.helmetshop.com/items.asp?CartID={E8BA599F-BC2E-46FEVEREST7-899F-E466A4FC9862}&cc=NOLAN9&tpc=)in Daytona Fla has Nolan N102 on sale for 229.99 delivered.

Northern Rob

08-07-2006, 07:06 PM

So I've had the Nolan 102 for a while now, put a good bunch of miles on it in the cold, in the hot and in rain. Its good. I really like the flip up lid. Hard to go back to the stock lid, especially for hot city (flip it up when stuck in traffic) and longer tours. The sun visor is good, not great. Glad I have it, but still use sunglasses. It's nice to have when driving into sunsets or when you forget your sunglasses. Fit and finish is nice. They really got their aerodynamic stuff right, because there's no problem doing a good shoulder check at higher speeds. On my HJC, the wind really caught the helmet on a shoulder check.
Ventillation is better than with my HJC and fogging is less of a problem.

So what are the negatives?
- it feels a bit heavier than my old full face. I got used to it, and have done really long days with the new one with no trouble.
- the big negative is its a lot louder than a full face. I would definitely recommend ear plugs if you're doing highway riding.

That being said, the Nolan is the first helmet I reach for when I go for a ride.

Thanks for everyone's suggestions.
Rob