Tag Archives: Gear

Knight Design Lowered Footpegs | Gear Review

Knight Design lowered footpegs review
We tested silver-anodized lowered pegs (about 1.4 inches lower) with the aggressive Quadtrax tread, plus silver-anodized lowered toe pegs for the shifter and brake pedal.

My heart will always belong to liter-class sportbikes; they are my all-time favorite machines to ride. The rest of my body, on the other hand, isn’t feeling the love. I can no longer coax my not-so-young bones into folding up pretzel-like in a full-on sporting posture for any extended length of time. My body simply rebels.

That’s why I recently purchased an Aprilia Tuono V4 Factory 1100. It’s a ready-to-go sportbike with all the thrills, but offers rational ergonomics that are a better match for my needs these days. However, even with its relaxed fit, the Tuono’s footpegs are mounted just a pinch too high for my aging and oft-abused hip joints.

Seeking relief, I was happy to learn that Knight Design provides a quick and easy solution. Knight Design is a family-run business based in Corvallis, Oregon, that manufactures parts in-house for a wide variety of motorcycles, predominantly footpegs and foot controls. They offer pegs in various sizes and designs, plus silver- or black-anodized finishes or natural silver. 

Knight Design lowered footpegs review

For my Tuono, I chose silver-anodized lowered pegs (about 1.4 inches lower) with the aggressive Quadtrax tread ($149.95 per pair), plus silver-anodized lowered toe pegs ($64.95 each) for the shifter and brake pedal. The parts boast excellent finish and workmanship, and they swapped out readily with the stock units. I didn’t even need to go anywhere to confirm the wisdom of the new pegs; just hopping on the Aprilia in my garage provided proof aplenty of the extra legroom.

Better yet, long days in the saddle are now distinctly more comfortable and accommodating. No more kinks in my hips. Hooray! Since I don’t move around in the saddle a lot when I ride, the grippy Quadtrax tread suits me well, and I appreciated the enlarged toe pegs, which I find easier to locate and operate. Some might worry about the loss of cornering clearance given the lowered pegs, but there’s still plenty available for the type of riding I do. I’m not planning on spending much time at the track with my Tuono nowadays, just some spirited backroad rides. So, the Tuono and I are just fine, thanks.

In addition to lowered pegs, Knight Design also makes regular-height pegs, wide pegs, and pegs with rubber tread for a variety of motorcycles. Whether you’re looking to change up your riding stance a bit or just add a little bling, it’s well worth checking out the options.

For more information: Call (541) 286-4455 or visit knightdesignllc.com

The post Knight Design Lowered Footpegs | Gear Review first appeared on Rider Magazine.
Source: RiderMagazine.com

HJC Releases First-Ever Red Bull Licensed Motorcycle Helmet

HJC RPHA 1N Red Bull Austin GP helmet

HJC Helmets and Red Bull have been working on launching the first-ever Red Bull licensed motorcycle helmet. Until now, any helmet sporting a Red Bull graphic has been exclusively available to sponsored riders, but HJC and Red Bull have partnered up to design a very special helmet, the RPHA 1 Red Bull Austin GP helmet.

For years, Circuit of the Americas has hosted a paramount MotoGP race for Red Bull, and the RPHA 1 Red Bull Austin GP helmet will pay tribute to this event with a graphic that celebrates the Grand Prix of the Americas. The sleek design accentuates the aerodynamic lines of the RPHA 1, HJC’s premium race helmet, while featuring the unmistakable Red Bull logo and COTA colors. The RPHA 1 has also been reserved for professional racers, but HJC will finally release their highly anticipated race helmet to the public in December 2021.

HJC RPHA 1N Red Bull Austin GP helmet

The RPHA 1N Red Bull Austin GP helmet was officially launched on October 3rd at the Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas in Austin, Texas. October 3rd also marked the 50th anniversary for HJC Helmets.

HJC Helmets has released several successful licensed helmets in the past, but the RPHA 1N Red Bull Austin GP helmet is one of a kind. The largest helmet maker in the world has teamed up with one of the most popular brands in motorsport.

The relationship began with HJC supporting the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup and becoming the official helmet partner for the series. From there, the relationship evolved and the next step of the partnership sees the release of an exclusive helmet collection that will be available to all motorcycle riders, something that has not been done before with any other brand.

MSRP for the RPHA 1N Red Bull Austin GP helmet is $949.99. For more information, visit hjchelmets.com.

The post HJC Releases First-Ever Red Bull Licensed Motorcycle Helmet first appeared on Rider Magazine.
Source: RiderMagazine.com

German Retailer Louis Moto Launches Rekurv Gear and Apparel

Louis Moto is a popular gear retailer based in Germany and sells products from several brands, including AGV, HJC, and Kriega. Visordown reports that the company also has its in-house labels at the more affordable end of the motorcycle gear spectrum. Now, it’s added a new line called Rekurv that will sell apparel and gear for the younger generation of riders.

An image of the Rekurv leather jacket

The official Rekurv webpage on Louis Moto’s website mentions that the new vertical will sell gear that delivers a no-frills, performance-oriented experience. The company’s products have been designed to focus on a sporty fit, optimal protection, and maximum comfort while being affordable. 

Image of the Rekurv textile jacket

The Rekurv portfolio currently comprises leather and textile jackets, gloves, and riding pants. The brand also sells non-protective apparel like T-shirts and jeans. There’s also a variety of gear and clothing available for women

Visordown points out that Rekurv’s Leather Combi Jacket is one of its more popular products. It comes with abrasion-resistant panels, removable elbow and shoulder armor, and an optional Super Shield HTP back protector. The jacket is priced at €249.99 (around $289.98), which matches entry-level options from popular brands like Dainese and Alpinestars.

Studio shot of a Rekurv glove

Studi shot of Rekurv ankle boots

Image source: Motorrad Online

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Back-to-School Motorcyclist Buyer’s Guide 2021

These days, “back to school” doesn’t quite mean the same thing as it used to. For many, thanks to COVID-19, this year kicks off with more Zoom classes and online discussion forums. Others will get the chance to attend in person, but even that arrangement is tenuous since a positive case or two has the chance to shut things down entirely.

In both circumstances, riding remains a massively important part of life. Whether it’s a way to blow off steam after being holedup in your house staring at a screen for hours or as a way to get to class and back, motorcycle riding remains essential. So why not take the opportunity to refresh your kit? To that end, we’ve got 10 parts and accessories that will elevate your style and help you be better equipped on the road below.

This little pack contains all sorts of emergency goodies that you’ll be happy to have in the event of an emergency.

This little pack contains all sorts of emergency goodies that you’ll be happy to have in the event of an emergency. (My Medic/)

My Medic Solo First-Aid Kit: $49.95

Getting an education is an investment in yourself, so it makes sense to protect that investment in the event of a not-so-awesome circumstance. The Solo First-Aid Kit has some fantastic components that will come in real handy if you ever find yourself battered or bruised. Things like liquid bandage, ibuprofen, sanitizer, cut wash, disposable gloves, burn gel, sting relief are just the tip of the iceberg in this compact, easy-to-carry kit. All the components are packaged in a waterproof package that can fit underseat, in luggage, or in your riding pack.

You’ll look classy and stay comfortable with the Rev’It Alpha RF Pants.

You’ll look classy and stay comfortable with the Rev’It Alpha RF Pants. (Rev’It/)

Rev’It Alpha RF Pants: $199.99

If you’re bound for in-person classes this fall, riding gear that looks like standard clothing can make life a whole lot easier. The Rev’It Alpha RF pants are a great option in this respect. Designed to look like a pair of chinos, the Alpha RF pants are made from a combination of Cordura denim and Rev’It’s in-house PWR shield. There are Coolmax elements built in to keep you cool when temperatures are high, and SeeSmart CE Level 1 protection in the knees. Stretch material makes the pants fit more comfortably, giving you an all-day wardrobe option that looks as sharp off the bike as it does on the bike.

A new backpack is standard-issue back-to-school kit, and the Chrome Industries Tensile Ruckpack will meet all the needs of any busy student.

A new backpack is standard-issue back-to-school kit, and the Chrome Industries Tensile Ruckpack will meet all the needs of any busy student. (Chrome Industries/)

Chrome Industries Tensile Ruckpack: $175

What says “back to school” more than a new backpack? Now that Trapper Keepers are out of style, not much. The Chrome Industries Tensile Ruckpack is a versatile, durable, and feature-rich option that will make your life a whole lot easier. It’s the most durable backpack from Chrome Industries to date, made with recycled, laminated ripstop nylon and featuring Chrome’s trademarked Truss 5 Bar Construction for reinforcement. Inside you get 25 liters of carrying capacity and a padded laptop compartment. Outside there are features like a sternum strap, aluminum buckle, a hooded closure, exterior pockets, and expandable water bottle pockets. Chrome also guarantees the Tensile Ruckpack for life.

Keep hunger at bay with some steak strips from Old Trapper.

Keep hunger at bay with some steak strips from Old Trapper. (Old Trapper/)

Old Trapper Jumbo Kippered Beef Steak: $24

Having a snack can be a big help when you’re trying to keep your eyes open through yet another lecture on the intricacies of international supply chains. And what better snack is there than a delicious piece of smoked meat? Old Trapper’s Jumbo Kippered Beef Steak strips are individually wrapped, easy to transport, and can sit in your bag for weeks, if not months, without spoiling. They’ll be a godsend on those days you skip breakfast and face a full day on campus, or if you’re at home, they’ll be a nice reward for your diligence and commitment.

Look stylish and stay protected with a pair of Carvenal Leather Gloves.

Look stylish and stay protected with a pair of Carvenal Leather Gloves. (Carvenal/)

Carvenal Premium Performance Leather Gloves: $70.95

Gloves are a really important element of a well-apportioned riding ensemble, and the Carvenal Premium Performance Leather Gloves will have you looking pretty damn classy. They’ll also provide great protection thanks to the combination of bonded nylon, leather, and knuckle protection. They’re made to be breathable, so perfect for fall, spring, and summer riding seasons. They’re also smartphone compatible, CE approved, and available with free shipping worldwide.

Transition off the bike with ease and look sharp in class with the Alpinestars Newman Overshirt.

Transition off the bike with ease and look sharp in class with the Alpinestars Newman Overshirt. (Alpinestars/)

Alpinestars Newman Overshirt: $299.95

The Alpinestars Newman Overshirt is another piece of riding gear that transitions seamlessly off the bike. It’s made from a premium performance twill material and features 600-denier elbow patches and interior reinforcement on the shoulders and elbows. Alpinestars Nucleon Flex Plus armor comes in the shoulders and elbows as well. It combines a YKK zipper and snap button closures and has two waterproof buttoned chest pockets. It meets CE Level 2 protection standards. Options like the Newman are great for warmer days, or days when you don’t want to fuss with a full-size jacket as you run across campus to make class in time.

Designed with style and protection in mind, the TCX Dartwood Waterproof boots are a great addition to your back-to-school riding kit.

Designed with style and protection in mind, the TCX Dartwood Waterproof boots are a great addition to your back-to-school riding kit. (TCX/)

TCX Dartwood Waterproof Boots: $179.99

Keep your feet dry, protected, and looking stylish with the TCX Dartwood Waterproof Boots. The upper is constructed of grain leather and it features a T-Dry waterproof membrane. The malleolus area features D3O inserts along with toe and heel reinforcements for added protection. The Ortholite footbed makes these boots nice and cozy while the Zplate shank provides lateral stability without sacrificing flexibility needed to walk comfortably. The Groundtrax outsole has deep lugs and a water-resistant rubber compound for optimal grip on and off the bike. Plus they look pretty damn refined.

Get the Tracker Monimoto 7 and never wonder where your bike is at again.

Get the Tracker Monimoto 7 and never wonder where your bike is at again. (Monimoto/)

Tracker Monimoto 7: $199.00

The last thing you need to worry about while discussing the influence of Marxist ideology on modern-day politics is whether your bike is where you left it. The Tracker Monimoto 7 system ensures you’ll never have to worry about such a thing again. It’s a smart GPS tracker system that is small, easy to install, and easy to hide. Batteries inside can last up to 12 months, and the system integrates with both iOS and Android apps. It has backup systems to continue tracking in the event that GPS isn’t available, battery status updates, and SIM card subscriptions only cost $49 a year.

Prevent helmet hair with a skull cap from Firstgear.

Prevent helmet hair with a skull cap from Firstgear. (Firstgear/)

Firstgear Skull Cap: $19.99

Helmet hair can get pretty out of control, so if you’re looking to keep your locks in check, consider adding a skull cap to your kit. The Firstgear Skull Cap is an affordable, breathable option that will help keep things in place when you pull that helmet off. If it’s really a problem, then consider adding a portable comb or brush to your bag too.

These days, a student’s laptop is hugely important. Keep it protected with a hard case from Pelican.

These days, a student’s laptop is hugely important. Keep it protected with a hard case from Pelican. (Pelican/)

Pelican 1085 HardBack Laptop Case: $79.50

If you’re taking your laptop with you back and forth on the bike, it may be worth investing in some impact protection for your computer. Backpacks offer a good first line of defence, but the Pelican 1085 HardBack Laptop Case will ensure that your computer remains in working order even in the worst case scenario. It’s watertight, crushproof, has automatic pressure equalization for easy opening at any altitude, comes with a removable shoulder strap, and features a lifetime guarantee.

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

Nelson-Rigg Commuter Tail Bag | Gear Review

Nelson-Rigg Commuter Tail Bag
Our Hayabusa test bike fitted with the Nelson-Rigg Commuter Tail Bag (Touring size).

As our recent test of the Suzuki Hayabusa shows, a big, open-class sportbike can make for one heckuva sport-tourer. But touring means going far, often for days at a time, and that requires luggage to carry gear. Earlier this year we tested Nelson-Rigg’s Commuter series tankbags, both the Lite (up to 8.4 liters when expanded) and Sport (up to 14.5 liters). They offer strap and magnetic mounts in the same bag, which is perfect for the Hayabusa, since the front of its tank has a plastic cover and the back is steel.  

When I needed to pack gear for several days to ride up to the Progressive IMS Outdoors show in Northern California in July, I used the Sport tankbag and matching tailbag. To accommodate different bikes and needs, Nelson-Rigg’s Commuter Tail Bag comes in three sizes: Lite (up to 15.3 liters, $109.95), Sport (up to 22.3 liters, $119.95), and Touring (up to 33 liters, $149.95). I opted for the Touring version.

Nelson-Rigg Commuter Series Tail Bag motorcycle luggage review
Nelson-Rigg Commuter Tail Bags are available in three sizes: Lite, Sport, and Touring.

The Hayabusa has a large passenger seat (for a sportbike), which is removable with the ignition key, and it has a large wrap-around grab handle. The Commuter bag has four adjustable straps that connect to quick-release buckles on the outside. Pairs of straps are connected via looped ends, and they run under the seat. I looped the rear straps around the grab handle for extra security. Installation took only a few minutes, and I was able to remove the bag and the straps even quicker. Once installed and loaded, the bag remained secure and the straps tight, even after a full day of tossing the ’Busa around on California’s ultra twisty Highway 1.

Nelson-Rigg Commuter Tail Bag
The Touring size Commuter Tail Bag in its expanded configuration.

In its standard configuration, the Commuter Touring measures 14 x 12 x 9 inches and holds up to 24.8 liters. When expanded, its height increases from 9 to 12 inches and total capacity tops out at 33 liters. The bag is made of Nelson-Rigg’s proprietary UltraMax fabric that offers UV protection against fading, and molded EVA panels help the bag maintain its shape even when empty. Inside the bag is a light gray interior, straps to secure contents, and a large mesh pocket inside the dome-shaped lid. The exterior has a non-slip, non-scratch base, a flush-mount reflective handle, and reflective piping. A rain cover and shoulder/backpack strap are also included.  

Overall, the Commuter Tail Bag is a great piece of luggage that’s well made, versatile, stylish, and reasonably priced. It’s also backed by a lifetime warranty.

For more information visit: nelsonrigg.com

The post Nelson-Rigg Commuter Tail Bag | Gear Review first appeared on Rider Magazine.
Source: RiderMagazine.com

DP Brake Pads | Gear Review

DP Brakes pad review
DP Brakes were the first to develop sintered brake pads for motorcycle use, and now sintered pads are used in nearly all OEM specifications.

Having bought my first Triumph Bonneville in 1960, I must say that my 2006 version has some notable upgrades. Like the brakes, with single discs on both wheels. Honda did it first with its CB750 in 1969, and then everybody followed suit.  

My 2006 Bonnie has fixed brake discs, and when changing tires a couple of months ago, I noticed the pads on the sliding calipers needed replacing. There are fancier (and more complicated) braking systems, but I’m happy with what the Bonnie has.  

A call to DP Brakes in Lancaster, New York, got me two new sets in the mail. The packages warned, “Brake pads should be fitted by experienced mechanics,” which leaves me out. I decided that my local technician, Herb, should do the job. Better to have an expert do the job than for me to do it inexpertly. If you really want to know more about your motorcycle’s brakes, I recommend getting a Haynes manual.  

DP Brake Pads
The author’s 2006 Triumph Bonneville has single-disc brakes front and rear.

Motorcycle brake pads mostly use the sinter (great Scrabble word!) process, which means taking a powdered mix of various metals and compacting it, then using the right amount of heat and pressure to create the pad. Done right, this increases things like tensile strength in the pads. DP says it was the first company to use this sintering method, and OEMs now use sintered pads on virtually all their motorcycles. 

Heat is the main problem in braking. Squeeze the front brake lever, or use your foot on the rear pedal, and the fluid pushes the little pistons behind the pads against the spinning disc. If you are going fast down a steep hill and approaching a tight curve, the pads slow the disc and transform kinetic energy into heat. Fortunately, in normal riding, all that heat escapes into the air and the pad compound is quickly good for the next braking event.  

DP Brake Pads
Fitted to the author’s Triumph Bonneville, the DP brake pads provided swift, smooth braking and excellent lever action.

There is a break-in period for brake pads, with relatively gentle use advised for the first 150 miles. After that, I took the Bonnie out on a twisty section of local road around here, nicknamed Rossi’s Driveway, and was quite satisfied with the swift, smooth slowing down, providing excellent lever action and sensitive pedal operation, even when pretending there was an emergency with a couple of very fast stops on my non-ABS bike.  

There was no chance to try them out in the rain here in drought-stricken California, but since they are manufactured in the United Kingdom, a nation noted for its many rainy days and wet roads, I figure that DP knows what it is doing. MSRP for the front DP118 pads is $48.95, and for the rear DP411 pads is $37.95.

For more information visit: dp-brakes.com

The post DP Brake Pads | Gear Review first appeared on Rider Magazine.
Source: RiderMagazine.com

Olympia Airglide 6 Jacket and Pants | Gear Review

Olympia Airglide 6 Jacket Pants Honda Gold Wing Tour DCT review
Wearing the Olympia Airglide 6 Jacket Pants while testing the 2021 Honda Gold Wing Tour DCT. (Photo by Kevin Wing)

We’ve tested a lot of Olympia apparel over the years, starting with the Sentry Jacket and Ranger Pants back in 2003. And we’ve worn and tested every iteration of the Airglide jacket/pants combo, which is now in its sixth generation. Olympia was founded by the husband-and-wife team of Kevin and Karilea Rhea, both designers and avid riders, and for years it was based in Hendersonville, North Carolina. A few years ago they sold the company, which is now owned by Motovan, a Canadian powersports distributor.

Olympia Airglide 6 Jacket Grey Red Black review
Olympia Airglide 6 Jacket in Grey/Red/Black

The Airglide jacket and pants are part of Olympia’s Mesh Tech line. That means they have large panels of Ballistic Airflow abrasion-resistant mesh (gee thanks, Captain Obvious!), with 1000D Cordura used in impact areas. Designed for three-season riding, there is a removable thermal layer as well as a windproof rain layer that can be worn under or over the jacket and pants (and a handy carry bag is provided). Removable Powertector Hexa CE Level 2 armor fits into pockets at the shoulders, elbows, back, and knees, and there are removable foam hip pads.

Olympia Airglide 6 Pants review
Olympia Airglide 6 Pants

With various fit adjustments and stretch panels, the Airglide jacket and pants are comfortable, with a generous cut that accommodates under-layers (and American midsections). I found the pants in my normal size to be a bit too large to be worn by themselves (they felt more like overpants), and the jacket sleeves were a little short for my long arms. If possible, try on the Airglide 6 before buying. The pants have full-length two-way side zippers and EZ-Hem bottoms so they can be tailored to length.

Olympia Airglide 6 Jacket Pants 2022 Suzuki Hayabusa review
Wearing the Olympia Airglide 6 Jacket Pants while testing the 2022 Suzuki Hayabusa. (Photo by Kevin Wing)

I’ve personally worn and tested a lot of Olympia gear, and I’ve always been impressed by the quality and attention to detail. For example, the front pockets in the Airglide jacket and pants are lined with soft fleece, so they’ll actually keep your hands warm on a cold day. The jacket also has an inside chest pocket with a pass-thru for earbuds. Grippy rubber zipper pulls are easy to use with gloved hands. Over multiple days of testing the Honda Gold Wing Tour and Suzuki Hayabusa, with temperatures ranging from the low 50s on the coast to well over 100 inland, I appreciated the versatility that the Airglide 6 ensemble provided.

The Airglide 6 jacket is available in men’s sizes S-XL ($379.99) and 2XL-4XL ($399.99), women’s sizes XS-XL ($379.99) and 2XL-3XL ($399.99), and Grey/Red/Black (shown), Black/Hi-Viz Yellow, and Black/Silver. The pants (Black only) are available in men’s sizes 30-38 ($279.99) and 40-44 ($299.99) and in women’s sizes 4-12 ($279.99) and 14-18 ($299.99). Everything is covered by a 1-year warranty.

For more information:
See your dealer or visit revzilla.com (U.S.) or motovan.com (Canada)

The post Olympia Airglide 6 Jacket and Pants | Gear Review first appeared on Rider Magazine.
Source: RiderMagazine.com

The Why Behind Arai Helmets

The Why Behind Arai Helmets
Akihito Arai pictured at the Arai factory in Japan.

In 1914, a doctor practicing near the Brooklands racetrack in England first correlated the relationship between motorcycle accidents and serious head injuries. Dr. Eric Gardner went on to invent the first purpose-built motorcycle helmet. It wasn’t until two decades later, when a head injury resulting from a motorcycle accident took the life of Thomas Lawrence, better known as Lawrence of Arabia, that the first serious studies were conducted into the efficacy of motorcycle helmets in reducing the severity of head injuries. Hugh Cairns, Lawrence’s attending doctor and a leading neurosurgeon, used his findings and influence to ensure that helmets would become obligatory equipment for British Army Signal Corps riders going forward.

Early helmets were mostly constructed from cork, leather, and sometimes wood, and remained so until post-war developments in synthetic materials lead innovators such as Hirotake Arai to develop an entirely new design. Arai, a keen motorcyclist, had retooled his family hat business to produce safety helmets for construction workers. Applying the same manufacturing techniques, he began making and selling the first Japanese motorcycle helmets in 1952. They were made from a fiberglass resin outer shell lined initially with cork, and later, expanded polystyrene (EPS).

Seven decades on, motorcycle helmets, along with a multitude of international standards, have evolved exponentially, as has our understanding of science. Nonetheless, the infinite number of variables existing in a real-world crash ensure that even the most sophisticated models used to gauge a helmet’s ability to absorb an impact will remain controversial. While tests aimed at appraising shell penetration, peripheral vision, and the strength of chin straps lend themselves more readily to laboratory observation, governing bodies are forced to compromise in the face of producing practical, repeatable tests that accurately simulate impact absorption.

The Why Behind Arai Helmets
An Arai factory engineer utilizing an ‘anvil test’ rig on a helmet shell.

An effective helmet design aims to minimize the energy reaching the wearer in a crash, and since much of the testing involves dropping helmets from a given height onto an anvil, passing the resulting standards can be as simple as thickening the EPS layer in all the right places. Arai argues that the resulting helmet would no longer possess the overall strength and durability afforded by a sphere and ignores the role a helmet plays in redirecting and absorbing energy. In the same way a stone can be made to skim across a pond, a round, smooth helmet will glance off a surface, redirecting energy away from the wearer.

Arai’s design philosophy first accepts that practical limitations on a helmet’s size and weight restrict the volume of protective EPS foam it can contain. Inevitably, helmets can’t prevent all head injuries. But, with the understanding that safeguarding a rider’s head goes far beyond meeting the demands of governing bodies, Arai applies the “glancing off” philosophy to design helmets that reduce the effect of impacts on riders’ heads. Given that most impacts are likely to occur at an oblique angle because motorcyclists are moving at speed, Arai’s design aims to maximize the ability of a helmet to redirect energy by glancing off an object. The design is a function of shape, shell strength, and deformation characteristics that absorb energy along with EPS.

The Why Behind Arai Helmets

Arai collects crashed helmets for analysis and data collection, and uses the information to continually refine their helmet design.

Arai has developed and refined its approach through decades of evaluation and experimentation. Its helmets are round and smooth, and any protruding vents or airfoils are designed to detach on impact. The shell itself must be strong and flexible, but it must not deform too quickly or it will dig in rather than glance off. Arai uses multiple laminated layers combining glass and composite fiber to produce a very strong but lightweight material, and areas of potential weakness at the helmet’s edge and eyeport are reinforced with an additional belt of “super fiber.” Arai says its shells can withstand much higher abrasion than what is mandated by standards tests, and in doing so, can retain its energy absorption properties for a second or third impact.

The Why Behind Arai Helmets
Every Arai helmet is still made and inspected by hand at the family-owned factory in Japan

While glancing off can redirect energy from the impact, a high-velocity crash may also require a helmet to absorb and distribute impact energy. Arai’s proprietary one-piece, multi-density EPS liner is made up of different sections of varying densities corresponding to the adjacent shell surface. This helps maintain the helmet’s spherical form and enhances its ability to glance off. In the case of a crash involving a slide along the ground and into an object, such as a curb or barrier, Arai’s helmets are designed to deflect the initial impacts with the ground with minimal shell deformation, saving its absorption properties for the rapid deceleration caused by impacting the object.

While glancing off can redirect energy from the impact, a high-velocity crash may also require a helmet to absorb and distribute impact energy. Arai’s proprietary one-piece, multi-density EPS liner is made up of different sections of varying densities corresponding to the adjacent shell surface. This helps maintain the helmet’s spherical form and enhances its ability to glance off. In the case of a crash involving a slide along the ground and into an object, such as a curb or barrier, Arai’s helmets are designed to deflect the initial impacts with the ground with minimal shell deformation, saving its absorption properties for the rapid deceleration caused by impacting the object.

The Why Behind Arai Helmets
Each helmet shell undergoes a series of quality control checks before continuing through the production process.

Many other helmet manufacturers and philosophies exist, and riders must make their own conclusions in the knowledge that certification requirements mandated by bodies such as the DOT and ECE only guarantee a minimum standard. Every Arai helmet is still made and inspected by hand at the family-owned factory in Japan; the only automated process is the laser cutting of the eyeports. Over its history Arai has built an enviable reputation for quality and attention to detail. As the saying goes, it is expensive for a reason.

For more information on Arai helmets, visit araiamericas.com.

The post The Why Behind Arai Helmets first appeared on Rider Magazine.
Source: RiderMagazine.com

HJC RPHA 90S Modular Helmet | Gear Review

HJC RPHA 90S Modular Helmet Review

We can’t get enough of modular helmets here at Rider. The protection of a full-face helmet combined with the convenience of a flip-up chinbar is really hard to beat. Add in the premium features of a helmet like HJC’s RPHA 90S, and you cover all the bases: safety, comfort, aerodynamics, ventilation, versatility, and ease of use.

Based in Korea, HJC is the world’s largest helmet manufacturer. RPHA, which stands for Revolutionary Performance Helmet Advanced and is pronounced “arfa,” is HJC’s premium line of full-face and modular helmets. The 90S shell is made of HJC’s proprietary, lightweight Premium Integrated Matrix (P.I.M.) Plus that blends carbon and carbon-glass into a hybrid fabric. My medium-sized 90S weighs 3 pounds, 11 ounces, which is comparable to other premium modular helmets we’ve tested.

The interior is 3D-engineered to reduce noise, and combined with the aerodynamic shell, neck roll, and chin curtain, the helmet does a good job of dulling wind noise. The 90S has a plush, removable comfort liner, recessed ear pockets, and channels to accommodate glasses. The anti-scratch faceshield is Pinlock-ready (an anti-fog insert comes in the box), and a sliding lever on the lower left edge of the helmet deploys or retracts the drop-down sunshield. Vents on the chinbar, crown, and rear of the helmet are easy to open or close with gloved hands. Airflow through the helmet is decent but could be better (though that would increase wind noise; I wear earplugs most of the time, so it’s a trade-off I’d be happy to make). Sold separately are Sena-made Smart HJC 20B and 10B Bluetooth communication systems that integrate into a port inside the rear of the helmet.

HJC RPHA 90S Modular Helmet Review 2021 Honda Gold Wing Tour DCT
HJC RPHA 90S on a 2021 Honda Gold Wing Tour (Photo by Kevin Wing)

I’ve been wearing the RPHA 90S for about a month on bikes ranging from a Triumph Speed Triple naked sportbike to the Honda Gold Wing. There is no EPS padding built into the chinbar, but it does latch closed with metal pins and locks securely. The chinbar’s release tab and the center locking mechanism for the faceshield are both easy to find and use on the fly, though with the faceshield cracked open the mechanism ends up in my line of sight. Otherwise, vision is very good through the large eyeport. I appreciate the plush liner for the chinstrap, which secures with a traditional D-ring. The 90S was comfortable, quiet, and user-friendly during 12-hour days in the saddle with highs in the triple digits. Can’t ask for much more than that.

The HJC RPHA 90S is available in sizes XS-2XL. Pricing ranges from $459.99-$469.99 for solids to $499.99 for graphics (shown).

For more information: See your dealer or visit hjchelmets.us

The post HJC RPHA 90S Modular Helmet | Gear Review first appeared on Rider Magazine.
Source: RiderMagazine.com

Fly Racing Flux Air Mesh Jacket | Gear Review

Fly Racing Flux Air Mesh Jacket
Photo by Kevin Wing

As the saying goes, if you can’t stand the heat, get out of the kitchen. But much of North America has felt like living in an oven lately. If, like me, you prefer to ride with the protection of an armored jacket regardless of how high the mercury rises, Fly Racing has a summer solution that will help you beat the heat.

The Flux Air Mesh is a lightweight riding jacket with a crew-style collar. Huge mesh panels on the chest, sleeves, and back allow plenty of cooling air to flow through to the wearer. High-abrasion textile sections provide additional safety at the elbows and across the shoulders, and behind these are pockets that hold removable CE Level 1 armor. An additional pocket at the back secures a foam back pad, but we recommend upgrading to Fly Racing’s Barricade CE Level 2 back protector ($39.95).

Fly Racing Flux Air Mesh Jacket | Gear Review
Fly Racing Flux Air Mesh Jacket in Black/White/Grey

Reflective panels across the shoulders enhance nighttime visibility. Adjusters at the cuffs, forearms, and waist enable an optimal fit and help ensure body armor remains in the correct position. A slightly tapered fit makes for a stylish cut, and a drop tail accommodates a more aggressive riding position while adding a measure of safety for the lower back. The jacket is fitted with a durable YKK main zipper with a lanyard for ease of use with gloved hands, and two external zippered pockets combine with phone and wallet pockets inside to provide plenty of practical storage for your valuables.

During recent test rides on a Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS, temperatures hovered in the 90s. Thanks to the generous airflow and light weight of the Flux Air Mesh, I all but forgot that I was wearing an armored jacket. Wind passed through the entire chest and arm sections, and even with the optional CE Level 2 back protector fitted, any sweat was wicked away quickly. I was also impressed with the fit, which provided room for comfort but was snug enough to keep the armor in place and prevent any annoying flapping on the highway.

Fly Racing Flux Air Mesh Jacket | Gear Review
Black
Fly Racing Flux Air Mesh Jacket | Gear Review
Camouflage
Fly Racing Flux Air Mesh Jacket | Gear Review
Black / Hi-Viz

During the heat of the summer riding season, the Flux Air Mesh Jacket is a great option to ride safely and in comfort. And at $119.95, you can’t beat the price. It’s available in men’s sizes S-3XL in four colorways: Black/White/Grey, Black, Camouflage, and Black/Hi-Viz. It’s also available in women’s sizes S-3XL in White/Grey and Black.

For more information: See your dealer or visit flyracing.com

The post Fly Racing Flux Air Mesh Jacket | Gear Review first appeared on Rider Magazine.
Source: RiderMagazine.com