Categories
clothing safety Gear Reviews helmet Motorcycle News Other Motorcycle Blogs Transport Research Laboratory Web Bike World

A New Helmet Survey Shows Many Motorcyclist Wear the Wrong Helmet Size

Your Lid Can’t Protect You If It Doesn’t Stay On

According to a new survey performed by the Transport Research Laboratory (TRL), around 25 percent of motorcyclists wear the wrong size helmet. The survey also revealed that around 20 percent of riders said their helmet almost came off in a crash. The video below shows how a helmet can come off or come partially off a rider’s head in an accident.

The study first began in 2014, according to Visordown, and the laboratory’s work continues today. It’s actively looking for riders to take an online survey to assist with the research. If you have some time, why not contribute? It could help make motorcycling safer for all of us.

The helmet data TRL conducted so far is telling and somewhat surprising. We focus a lot of our energy talking about the design and features of a helmet and how those details will help keep you safe, but if 25 percent of riders have the wrong size helmet on their nogging, it doesn’t really matter as much how many advanced safety features there are. 

You may say, “any helmet is better than none.” That may be true in many cases, but a poorly fitting helmet won’t be able to prevent head trauma in the same way as a well-fitting one. It isn’t just the size that people get wrong. It’s head shape, too. A helmet with the wrong head shape not only will be less comfortable but it will also not be as safe as it could be. TRL’s mission is to do research on helmet fitment and then provide manufacturers with more accurate head shapes to work with. 

The post A New Helmet Survey Shows Many Motorcyclist Wear the Wrong Helmet Size appeared first on Web Bike World.

Categories
Gear Reviews helmet Motorcycle News off-road Other Motorcycle Blogs Shoei VFX-EVO Web Bike World

Shoei Reduces the Price of the VFX-EVO

Get It for a Little Less

The Shoei VFX-EVO is a fantastic off-road helmet by all accounts. The brand is well-known for making quality lids, and the VFX-EVO is one of its best out there from what we hear. We have not reviewed it, but if you look around the web, it gets high marks.

Now you can buy the helmet for less. Shoei just dropped the price, and that should give you a big dirt-eating grin.

This should be good news for any off-road rider. Although the price didn’t dramatically change, even a few dollars off the original price is welcomed. The VFX-EVO is no bargain helmet.

10 Bucks Is Better Than No Bucks

The VFX-EVO used to sell for $539. Now it will go for $529. Ten bucks. I’ll take it. That’s plenty of cash to fill up your dirtbike’s tank a couple times.

Shoie can afford to drop the price of the VFX-EVO because the company streamlined the manufacturing process. The press release doesn’t say much about how this was achieved. I’d be curious to know how. Shoei says that the quality isn’t compromised. It promises the same high-quality lid as usual.

Shoei VFX-EVO
Image from Shoei

Shoei is known for making helmets by hand at their factory. I wonder if they finally started implementing some manufacturing automation into their process. That would jive with the drop in price. Still, that’s just me spitballing. Nothing from Shoei suggests it isn’t still doing its thing building handmade helmets.

They probably just streamlined their existing process. As I understand it more than 50 people take a turn working on the helmets. If they could reduce that number and still ensure quality, then the $10 price drop makes a whole lot of sense.

 

The post Shoei Reduces the Price of the VFX-EVO appeared first on Web Bike World.

Categories
Arai Helmets Gear Reviews helmet helmet graphics Motorcycle Helmet Articles Motorcycle Helmet Exclusives and Previews Other Motorcycle Blogs Web Bike World

Graphic Launch for 2019 Arai Quantum-X, Signet-X, and VXPRO-4

Bold New Looks for December

We recently received word that Arai Helmets created some new graphics for their 2019 Quantum-X, Signet-X, and VXPRO-4 helmet lines. This gives the helmet designs, which are a couple to a few years old at this point an updated look to keep buyers interested.

The Quantum-X and Signet-X came out in 2016 and are two of the better full-face helmets on the market today. They’re based on the Corsair-X. They’re designed similarly but specifically for two different head types, which is what got the most buzz upon their release. The VXPRO-4, on the other hand, is a motocross helmet that Arai released in 2015 to follow up the much-loved VXPRO-3.

New Quantum-X and Signet-X Graphics

Arai Quantum-X Cliff
Image from Arai

The Quantum-X (above) is the bucket you want if you need a helmet designed for a round-oval head shape. Arai calls the new Quantum-X graphic design Cliff. The Cliff design offers two colorways in two color schemes: Red/Black Frost and Red/White.

Arai Signet-X Shockwave
Image from Arai

The Signet-X (above) is crafted for riders with a long-oval head shape. The new graphic design is called Shockwave. It comes in three colorways and three color schemes: Black Frost, Gray Frost, and Blue Frost. I guess Arai has a thing for calling colors “frost.”

The new designs are attractive and full of angles. The Quantum-X gets a blockier design, while the Signet-X gets more swoopy lines.

New VXPRO-4 Graphic

Arai VXPRO-4 Combat
Image from Arai

The VXPRO-4 provides ample protection. The press and consumers alike seem to like the helmet considerably. The new graphic design should help Arai keep it in people’s minds for 2019. Unlike with the Quantum-X and Signet-X, Arai has only one color scheme for its new design called Combat.

Arai didn’t provide the names for the individual colors, but as you can see from the photos, it’s comprised of light blue, green, silver, and black. The design itself features blocks of color and stars. It’s a design that fits right in with other motocross helmets but is different enough to stand out.

I personally go for solid colors with my helmets, but if you’re into graphics on your lid the new options from Arai should pique your interest.


Arai Quantum-X Cliff Red and White
Arai Quantum-X Cliff Red and White – Image from Arai
Arai Signet-X Shockwave Gray Frost
Arai Signet-X Shockwave Gray Frost – Image from Arai

The post Graphic Launch for 2019 Arai Quantum-X, Signet-X, and VXPRO-4 appeared first on Web Bike World.

Categories
Gear Reviews helmet Motorcycle Helmet Articles Other Motorcycle Blogs Web Bike World Zox zox helmet

Affordable Helmets by ZOX: Our Impressions

About ZOX Helmets

For over 10 years, ZOX helmets have been providing quality helmets at a great price. The philosophy behind the ZOX brand is to provide an affordable, safe, stylish helmet to the public.

ZOX has been involved in the Canadian racing community since the very beginning on a local, provincial and national level. They are involved in several charitable projects and support youth and professional riders across the country with helmets. They also sponsor numerous riders, races, and series.

Construction and Safety Standards

The helmets themselves are well designed and are constructed from the latest technology materials. The facility in which the helmets are manufactured in is state of the art and is certified to ISO 9001-2000 standards.

Testing of the products is rigorous to ensure compliance by meeting or exceeding DOT and Snell certifications.

DOT is the US Government’s Department of Transportation (DOT). DOT sets minimum standards that all helmets sold for motorcycling on public streets must meet. The standard is the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 218 (FMVSS 218) and is known commonly as the DOT Standard.

The Snell Memorial Foundation is a private non-profit organization that sets voluntary standards for motorcycle helmets, bicycle helmets and auto racing helmets, as well as other kinds of protective headgear. Snell standards are the world’s toughest and demand quite a bit more protective capability in helmets than anybody else on the planet.

ZOX helmets offer a warranty against defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one year from the date of purchase with proof of purchase.

ZOX has a great lineup of helmets for everyone regardless of what you ride. They have a product line of Street, Dirt and Snow helmets.

Street

The lineup of street helmets offered by ZOX includes Full Face, Modular, Dual Sport and Open Face categories.

Full Face

ZOX Full Face Helmet

In the Full Face Category, ZOX helmets start at CAD$ 89.99 for the GALAXY SOLID, all the way to C$349.99 for the ODYSSEY CARBON VIGILANCE.

ZOX provided me with the Primo C Track for review.

I found the helmet to be of excellent quality at a great price of C$199.99. This helmet was priced in the middle of the price range for ZOXs full face helmet line.

I tested this helmet on a 2018 Ducati Monster 821. I was amazed at just how well it fit and performed.

Modular

ZOX Modular Helmet

ZOXs Modular category has a good selection of helmets starting at C$139.99 with the CONDOR SVS SOLID all the way to the BRIGADE SVS VOYAGER at C$179.99.

I was provided a Brigade SVS Solid by ZOX for review.

I tested this helmet on my 2007 Harley Davidson FLHTCU. I was impressed at the quality of this helmet. It was comfortable, kept my head cool, was easy to put on and to remove due to the micrometric buckle on the chin strap.

The quality of the build was excellent. The buttons were easy to use with gloves. All in all, it proved to be an excellent modular at the affordable price of C$ 149.99.

Dual Sport

In the Dual Sport category, ZOX offers a product line that starts at C$149.99 with the RUSH SFX up to C$259.99 for the Z-DS10 STITCH.

I have not had the opportunity to review a ZOX Dual Sport Helmet yet, I hope to have the chance in the future.

Open Face

ZOX Open Face Helmet

ZOXs Open Face Category features a very comprehensive lineup of helmets to suit most Open Face helmet riders needs. From half helmets, traditional open face helmets with or without a visor to open face helmets with a face shield, ZOX has a helmet that will fit your needs.

Prices start at C$59.99 for a Classic Solid (C$ 49.99 Classic Junior Solid for kids) all the way to C$123.99 for the Mikro “Custom” Flare.

ZOX helmets provided me with a Mikro Old School Solid for review.

It tested this helmet on my 2008 Harley Davidson XL Custom Bobber. I usually wear a half helmet while riding my bobber.

I enjoyed the helmet a lot. It was very comfortable. It had a micrometric buckle that made it easy to put the helmet on and to take it off, even with gloves. The look of the helmet was very sleek. The helmet I reviewed was Matte Black that gave it a nice subdued look.

Also, the Mikro does not have a visor or snaps for a visor which I prefer in a half helmet.

Dirt

ZOX has a complete lineup of dirt bike helmets, both in the Motocross and Open Face categories.

Motocross

The Motocross category is well covered by ZOX. Prices range from C$104.99 for the Rush Solid to C$329.99 for the Matrix Carbon.

For Kids, there are three Rush Junior helmets available in Solid at C$79.99 as well as Sharpie and Code at C$89.99.

I have not reviewed any of ZOX’s Motocross helmets at this time.

Open Face

At the time of this article, ZOX offers two open face helmets for dirt applications. The Classic Camo at C$99.99 and the Banos STG Camo at C$109.99

Snow

ZOX helmets offers a full range of full face, modular and open face helmets for snow applications. I will not go into details on the snow line given that this article is focussed towards motorcycle riders; however, I was quite impressed at the selection of snow helmets available on ZOXs website.

Sizing Information for Maximum Protection

New riders sometimes get caught up in brand names and can end up with very expensive equipment that may not get a lot of use.

The important thing to remember when it comes to a helmet is in order for it to offer maximum protection, it has to fit properly. It should be snug and sized correctly. It should not feel too tight or too loose.

In order for a ZOX helmet to fit properly and fit comfortably, the helmet must be snug. It must be sized to your head correctly. The best way to check sizing is to put the helmet on and see that it feels snug equally all around your head.

The ZOX website offers a chart to use in order to ensure that your helmet will fit properly. Alternatively, any dealer that sells ZOX helmets will be able to help you find a helmet that is properly sized for you.

Conclusion

I am impressed with ZOX helmets. They are a progressive company with a mission to make safety affordable.

As an experienced rider, I have had many helmets in the past. I find that the quality of the helmets produced by ZOX to be very good. It is important to have good safety equipment while riding.

I feel that the price should not be a negating factor to ensure that your protective equipment is in good condition. ZOX helmets understands this and has been able to provide affordable safety without compromising quality.

The post Affordable Helmets by ZOX: Our Impressions appeared first on Web Bike World.

Categories
Arai Arai DT-X Helmet Arai Helmets Full-Face Helmet Reviews Gear Reviews helmet Motorcycle Helmet Reviews Other Motorcycle Blogs Web Bike World

The All New Arai DT-X Helmet Review

The All New Arai DT-X Helmet – Torrent White

For those of you not familiar with Arai Helmets, they are a Japanese company who has been around since 1926.

Arai helmets are all hand built and are designed to meet or beat SNELL safety standards. They are a family-owned company, with a strong belief in high quality control and safety.

We have reviewed numerous Arai helmets over the years and have consistently found them to be high-quality units that offer the very best in protection and rider comfort. Let’s see if the DT-X follows that tradition.

At a price point starting at $589.95 MSRP, the all-new Arai DT-X (DownTown-X) is Arai’s entry level helmet a level up from the Vector 2. It sits below the Signet-X and Quantum-X.

Arai has just revamped the DT-X and packed it full of sweet features: Antimicrobial Interior Material – keeps the inside of the helmet from smelling like a gym sock, A PB-SCLC Shell – increases the strength and safety by allowing for better impact absorption, Variable Axis Shield System – the design results in a smoother shell which will increase the helmet’s ability to brush off objects during impact (avoiding snags), One Piece Multi Density EPS liner – helps minimize the helmet size and weight for added comfort, Dual Flow Ventilation – Increased airflow and exhaust make for a more comfortable ride, especially in warmer weather, 5MM Peel Away Temple and Cheek Pads – fine tune the fit of the interior of the DT-X, DOT, ECE and Snell Certified (learn why that’s important).

Helmet Fit

The DT-X is available in sizes XXS-XXL and it’s shape is intermediate oval.

Arai Helmet Shape Guide

Arai Helmet Shape Guide

I’m a big guy at 6’2 240 lbs with an intermediate oval shaped head. My typical helmet size is XL for most brands. Just for comparison, I own a Shoei GT-Air Helmet that fits in XL that fits my head shape quite well. The DT-X in XL actually fit me quite well but as with all helmets, I recommend trying them on to determine if it fits properly.

One area that was a bit snugger than I like was the cheek pad. I found my cheeks to be overflowing over the top of the pad. Luckily, the cheek pads are adjustable and I was able to peel away about 5mm which wound up being a perfect fit for me.

The temple pads can also be peeled way to relieve some pressure, but I did not find a need for this during my test.

After making the adjustment on the cheek pad the interior of the helmet fit me quite nicely. One other area where the DT-X shines is there is a groove built in that seems like a natural fit for eye / sunglasses.

I was able to put on a pair of Ray Ban aviators quite nicely without adding any additional pressure onto my head.

Paint, Graphics and Overall Quality

The DT-X comes in a wide range of new color schemes. White, black, black frost, guard red, guard green and guard white frost.

Arai Helmet Color Guide

The helmet we received is a new color scheme called Torrent White. It is a glossy white paint scheme with grey, off white and silver graphics. The graphics are painted and then glossed over which adds a layer of protection to prevent chipping.


Where to Buy Arai DT-X Helmet

Check Reviews & Prices on Amazon
Check Reviews & Prices On RevZilla

See More Motorcycle Helmets at RevZilla and Amazon


Arai FT-X in Torrent White

From a looks perspective, I would have liked a tinted visor rather than clear but that can always be swapped out or fitted with the VAS Pro Shade System.

Paint, Graphics and Overall Quality

The DT-X has a ton of ventilation points.

  • There are 2 brow vents to circulate air around the forehead / temple region.
  • The chin vent has 2 positions to direct air around the chin or upwards to help with fogging.
  • A dual purpose vent on top, when riding upright,allows for air to flow in and out.
  • An intake vent in the rear helmet is used when riding in a more aggressive stance. It allows you to open up 2 vents to maximize airflow and exhaust through the rear of the helmet.
  • The crown and rear intakes push air through the liner and exhausts the air through holes in the lining which allows for more circulation within the lining. The air is then pushed out through one of the 5 exhaust vents around the helmet.
Arai DT-X Ventilation Pattern

With the exception of the two bottom rear vents, each one can be opened and closed with ease. The only one I had a bit of trouble with was the top rear vent, but that was more due to me not being familiar with the helmet.

I tested this helmet for 2 hours in 75 degree somewhat muggy weather in New York. The air was a bit thicker than normal due to some rain over the last few days.

Full disclosure, nearly every helmet I’ve ever owned has tended to fog rather quickly however. The DT-X held it’s own and once the fog started to build a bit I was able to open up the brow vents and defog them relatively quickly.

Helmet Weight

The DT-Xi is made out of lightweight fiberglass. The helmet weighs in at 3 lbs 9 ozs which puts it right in the weight range of the most other Arai helmets.

I wouldn’t consider this a “lightweight” helmet, but it is definitely one that you can wear comfortably for long periods of time.

Face Shield

I am a bit biased on this because I lean towards using a tinted visor during my daytime rides. The stock visor is clear, meaning that you’ll need sunglasses to ride comfortably when the sun’s out.

However,the DT-X uses the Variable Axis Shield system that will allow you to swap out visors without any tools. You can always run the VAS Pro Shade system that will allow you run multiple visors without having to stop and swap.

According to Arai it also allows for a smoother shell in the temple area for added comfort.

There is a single black tab right below the visor that you will need to push in that will pop the cover off. With the cover off, just push the tab once more and the visor will pop off quite easily.


Where to Buy Arai DT-X Helmet

Check Reviews & Prices on Amazon
Check Reviews & Prices On RevZilla

See More Motorcycle Helmets at RevZilla and Amazon


DT-X Helmet Tabs

Visibility

From a visibility standpoint, the face shield and eye holes are wide enough to have minimal visibility issues. I was able to maintain my peripherals quite well and had full view of the road ahead.

I did however had a hard time getting an easy look at the instrument panel. I feel like the mouth / chin protector is a little larger than I like and may have affected my view. Definitely not a game changer, just something to be on the lookout for when giving the helmet a test run.

Noise Levels

On a typical ride, I usually have all vents open because I prefer airflow in exchange for some ride noise. With all vents open I found the sound levels extremely minimal and quiet. It would make an excellent choice for a long bike tour.

Gallery

IMG_4917IMG_4919IMG_4921IMG_4922IMG_4923IMG_4924IMG_4926IMG_4927IMG_4928IMG_4931IMG_4957IMG_4932IMG_4933IMG_4934IMG_4935IMG_4936IMG_4942IMG_4946IMG_4947IMG_4949IMG_4951IMG_4952IMG_4953IMG_4956

Conclusion

Arai really knocked it out of the park with the DT-X. Low noise, comfortable, looks cool, well ventilated, high quality, and an affordable price tag. The only drawback to me is the clear visor, but really it’s just a matter of preference and is easily swappable.

For any rider looking for a versatile helmet I am hard pressed find any drawbacks about the DT-X and feel comfortable recommending it to any rider.

wBW Review: Arai DT-X Helmet
Manufacturer: Arai Helmet Ltd. MSRP: $589.95 – $729.95
Colors: Solids and Graphics Made In: Japan
Sizes: XXS-XXL Review Date: Oct 24th, 2017
Shell Size : Intermediate Oval
Note: Item provided by a retailer, distributor or manufacturer with these Terms and Conditions.

The post The All New Arai DT-X Helmet Review appeared first on Web Bike World.

Categories
helmet motorcycle Motorcycle Travel Other Motorcycle Blogs Travel Tips You Must Be Trippin' - Click on the Title to View Entire Article

Five Ways to Protect Your Face While Riding a Motorcycle

Motorbike HelmetMotorcycle travel can be tough on your face. Think of the classic biker photos – leathery, wind chapped dudes, squinting at the camera. They look rough and tough, but let’s be honest; not every rider wants to look like that after a few years on a bike. Adopt these five simple tips, and you can…

Categories
cruiser parts and gear Cruising helmet motorcycle helmet Other Motorcycle Blogs Shoei Shoei J-Cruise

Shoei J-Cruise Helmet

Shoei J-Cruise

Shoei Helmets

Shoei J-Cruiser open face helmet

The all-new Shoei J-Cruise is not your average open-face lid. Packed with innovative features like the large, smooth-operating and distortion-free CJ-2 shield (complete with an industry-first integrated air dam), a built-in internal sun shield, advanced ventilation, and a fully removable 3D Max-Dry interior system, the J-Cruise does it all while keeping you safe and connected with the road ahead.

• Optimal shell and shield aerodynamics reduce noise and wind turbulence

• CJ-2 shield provides a wider and taller field of vision than its predecessor

• Internal QSV-1 sun shield gives riders instant relief from sun glare in one quick motion

• Fully removable, washable and replaceable 3D Max-Dry interior system

Starting at $499.99
shoei-helmets.com

Related: Shoei Transitions Lenses for RF-1200

Categories
cruiser tips and tech Cruising helmet helmet care helmet cleaner Motorex Other Motorcycle Blogs

Motorex Active Foam Helmet Cleaner

http://cf.c.ooyala.com/ZlNGkzMTE6oY3aq2Dyk_KLbXWL_tnFK0/3Gduepif0T1UGY8H4xMDoxOjA4MTsiGN

Please enable Javascript to watch this video

Helmet Care Active Foam from Motorex is a quick an easy solution to a problem we all face. If you’re like us, you’re pulling your head in and out of that lid multiple times everyday and riding hard when it’s in there. The fact is: things are going to get stinky.

Motorex Helmet Care Active Foam

Memorex Oil of Switzerland

Motorex Helmet Care Active Foam- $11.95

To use this product, simply spray the foam onto the inside of your helmet, make sure you spray it all over and get everything covered, then give it a minute to foam up and activate. Once activated, simply wipe it off with a dry cloth, then let it air out until it’s fully dry.

The whole process took about 20 minutes and left my old helmet smelling fresh and feeling good! This is a product we look forward to using on all of our old helmets that start getting a little funky.

For more information, visit MotorexUSA.com

Categories
cruiser parts and gear Cruising helmet Indian Motorcycle open-face Other Motorcycle Blogs Retro

Vintage Style 3/4 Helmet from Indian Motorcycle

Indian Motorcycle Retro Open Face Helmet

Indian Motorcycle

Indian Motorcycle Retro Open Face Helmet

Indian Motorcycle Retro Open Face Helmet

A classic custom helmet in Indian red metallic ABS outer-shell with contrasting tan liner. The size can be adjusted via a back of head mechanism to get the perfect fit.

• Red metallic ABS outer shell with contrasting tan liner

• Size can be adjusted via rear adjust mechanism

• Thin fixed lining and detachable cheek pads

• DOT approved

//$119//
indianmotorcycle.com

Indian Motorcycle Retro Open Face Helmet

Indian Motorcycle

Indian Motorcycle Retro Open Face Helmet

Categories
cruiser parts and gear Cruising Ghost Bandit helmet Other Motorcycle Blogs review Simpson Motorcycle Helmets Simpson Race products

Simpson Ghost Bandit: Review

Simpson Ghost Bandit motorcycle helmet

Simpson Race Products

Simpson Ghost Bandit motorcycle helmet in black

Simpson Race Products has always been known for making badass helmets. Their trademark Bandit look originated in their old car drag racing helmets, but people dug the style and wore them on bikes. The rest is history.

Simpson Ghost Bandit motorcycle helmet

staff

Simpson Ghost Bandit motorcycle helmet in white

The Street Bandit was a Bandit that was modified specifically for motorcyclists with a little bit of a wider eyehole and the two adjustable vents up above. The Outlaw bandit adds a little bit of aerodynamic features to increase stability, but it wasn’t until the Ghost Bandit that Simpson released a fully modern, updated motorcycle helmet.

Designed from the ground up, 100% for motorcyclists, the Ghost Bandit is completely modern, comfortable and convenient without losing that trademark Simpson badass style. The lightweight shell has been designed for aerodynamics while riding, incorporating vents to let cool air in through the front and hot air out through the back. Integrated speaker and mic pockets make setting up your Sena Bluetooth or whatever other audio setup a cinch. A flip-down visor makes riding in varying levels of sun and shade easy.

Simpson Ghost Bandit motorcycle helmet

staff

Simpson Ghost Bandit motorcycle helmet white

This helmet is damn decent for touring, a little bulky and shaky for real high speed, a little bit loud, but MUCH quieter than previous models from Simpson. I set up Sena’s 10r and I can hear my music fine but making phone calls is a little difficult. For the price point, this isn’t the quietest, lightest, or most aerodynamic helmet that you can get. But it IS a Simpson. It’s got that trademark tough guy look that no one else pulls of like they do, and it’s got those modern updates and conveniences now worked in.

Among the most stylish helmets on the market, the Ghost Bandit is updated with more features than you’ll find on any of the other steezy lids like the Bullitt or Gringo. If you’re a rider that was looking at buying a Simpson before, this is a no brainer.

http://cf.c.ooyala.com/4wdnIxMTE6Rvk4H1xZapmoLBPCLxcou2/Ut_HKthATH4eww8X4xMDoxOjA4MTsiGN

Please enable Javascript to watch this video

For more information on this and the other awesome helmets from Simpson Race Products, check their website SimpsonRaceProducts.com