Tag Archives: Helmet

Review: Send 3S Plus Boom intercom

Bulky external Bluetooth intercom systems not only cause wind noise issues, but look unsightly and could even be an issue with head rotation in a crash.

Bluetooth motorcycle helmet intercom giant Sena has come up with two solution options that eliminate those bulky external modules.

The 3S PLUS Boom and 3S PLUS Universal Bluetooth 4.1 headsets are cheap options, too, at just $A139.

While the Universal has a very small controller that sticks on the outside of the helmet making it suitable for all helmets, the Boom has the controls on the boom microphone, so it’s only really suitable for open-face helmets or modular helmets when the chin guard is in the up position.

I tested the Boom model and found it so quick and easy to install I am able to swap it in seconds from one open face helmet to another.

The lightweight 55g unit simply velcros into the helmet and the wires tuck behind the liner. It includes a USB charging socket on a cable which you can discretely tuck under the liner.

The only issue I had was that the boom mic is a bit heavy and sometimes droops because the velcro backs of the speakers won’t stick very well to the helmet liner. Sena 3S Plus Boom Bluetooth intercom

The boom has only two controls with plus and minus signs on them. Yet they control power on and off, pairing, tracks up and down, volume and all phone functions.

It sounds easy, but you have to remember how to use them as some functions require using both buttons and others just the one, but tapping it or holding it down for a certain period. It takes a little while, but you soon get used to it.Sena 3S Plus Boom Bluetooth intercom

While the mic features Sena’s noise control system, it was impossible to have phone conversations when riding over about 80km/h with an open-face helmet.

That’s not because of the wind noise in the mic, but because the speaker volume is not high enough. You also tend to shout at that speed to hear yourself over the wind noise, causing the person on the other end of the phone to ask you to stop shouting!

It’s ok for around town and is fine if you don’t wear filtered earplugs. However, IU always wear filtered plugs so phone calls and music over 80km/h are out of the question.

Sena claims up to eight hours of talk time on a single charge and seven days of standby time. I can confirm the latter, but not the former. Who talks for that long!

However, I was able to listen to music all day and take a couple of calls without the battery going flat.

I suspect the 3S PLUS Universal would also have the same volume level issue in open-face helmets.

Both claim two-way HD intercom at a range of 400m, so long as there aren’t major obstructions such as buildings.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Review: ATLAS 3 full-face helmet

New British motorcycle helmet manufacturer Ruroc has only been around a few years but has already released the third generation of its Atlas full-face helmet.

The company claims its ECE 22:05 and DOT FMVSS218 approved, carbon-fibre Atlas 3.0 helmet is quieter, more comfortable, safer and with more colour and graphic options, although not really any more expensive.

I reviewed the Atlas 2.0 helmet a little over a year ago. I found it quite comfortable and full of handy features, but with some issues over noise.

Company spokesman Ben Conie says they listened to rider feedback in updating the helmet as well as the accompanying Shockwave audio system.

However, if you upgrade from the Atlas 2.0 to the Atlas 3.0, the old Shockwave audio ($A210) will not fit, so you will have to buy the new one, thankfully at the same price.

The Atlas 2.0 helmet originally cost around A630-$A700 depending on graphics. There are still some available at about a $150 discount.

Ruroc Atlas 3.0 helmet
Atlas 3.0 full range

Atlas 3.0 models also start at $A630 with most $A700, some $A740 and the Nebula Carbon and Liquid Carbon models $810. My “Carbonised Gold” test model is one of 16 varieties to choose from.

One of the most basic upgrades has been going from two to three shells sizes which is not only good for sizing and comfort, but also safety. 

The Atlas 2.0 has only recently been tested and rated at four out of five stars by the respected British helmet safety site, SHARP, so we can expect the updated model to be at least the same standard … maybe higher!

The first thing I noticed after removing the helmet from its plush boxing is the-lusher and softer interior. It feels like sticking your head inside a pillow!

Ruroc Atlas 3 helmet
Plush interior

Another great feature from the boxing is a contoured foam pad to place your helmet on when it is not on your head.

It even includes a groove to hold your spare Pinlock-ready wraparound visor which comes in a range of options including new Chrome and Pink iridescent.

Speaking of which, they say the visor locking system is more secure and easier for swapping visors. It may be more secure and air tight, but it is quite stiff making it difficult to swap visors quickly.

Maybe it will loosen up if I keep changing the visor, but I rarely ride into the night because of wildlife issues, so I doubt I’ll be replacing the tinted visor anytime soon.

Ruroc says the main engineering improvements are in the aerodynamics.

That should not only make it feel quieter but with less drag there should be less fatigue after a long day riding on a bike without a windscreen.

I can’t discern any difference in the noise levels to the previous model. 

But I can hear the audio much better probably because the speakers have been improved and it is easier to position them exactly where needed.

Incidentally, for me, that means placing them not where the recess is, but a little further forward and higher. Maybe my ears are strangely positioned!

Thankfully they are covered in a comfortable thick foam so they don’t hurt my ears.Ruroc Atlas 3 helmet

I’m still not a fan of the discrete Bluetooth system’s controls at the back of the helmet, but at least the buttons are now three times bigger. They are still pretty difficult to find with thick gloves on.

Installation is now much easier with integrated cable routing for the speakers and mic, plus magnetic fitment for the unit so you don’t have to fiddle with (and lose) tiny screws.

Like most modern Bluetooth systems, it is quick and foolproof to pair and operates without any issues.

It now also offers support for rider-pillion intercom and music sharing, improvements to sound quality, battery state monitoring and LED indications as well as updated voice prompts.

All Atlas 3.0 helmets are made from T-400 carbon fibre and weigh just 1.4kg and no discernible weight increase from the tiny audio and speakers.

Together with the improved aero, this results in very little helmet fatigue after a long day in the saddle.

Thankfully the handy Magnetic Fidlock chinstrap has been retained from the previous model.Ruroc Atlas 3 helmet

It means no fiddling around with double-D mechanisms and is even easier than a snap-lock mechanism.

Just put the clasps close together and the magnetised ends “find” each other and lock in. It feels safe and secure and will not come undone unless you grab the red release strap.

However, I can’t see the racing authorities approving the system.

I can probably still take it to on track days. In fact, out of all the reviewed and bought helmets in my cupboard, this is now my go-to helmet because of comfort, handy features such as the clasp and the discrete, built-in and high-quality sound system.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Tough Turban offers Sikh riders protection

Sikh riders who want an exemption from wearing a helmet on religious grounds may soon have a “Tough Turban” option that will offer better protection than the traditional soft turban. 

A Tough Turban prototype has been made by a Canadian Harley-Davidson dealership and is now open for a manufacturer to produce.

It consists of three protective layers: non-Newtonian foam used in military armour and helmets that hardens on impact; 3D-printed chainmail; and a composite fabric used in bullet-proof clothing. 

The Tough Turban was developed in Ontario because it is one of several provinces in Canada that allows Sikhs a helmet exemption.

Tough Turban Sikh motorcycle helmet
Tough Turban

The UK introduced an exemption in 1976 and it has now spread to include New Zealand (up to 50km/h), India and Pakistan (Peshawar only).

In Australia, the Religious Discrimination Bill protects “religious activity” such as the wearing of a turban, but it does not override state laws, including road rules.

Sikhs in several states have sought exemptions, but so far only Victoria has granted a helmet exemption on religious grounds, but that is for cyclists only.

Germany and France have knocked back turban helmet exemptions  and Denmark is cracking down on helmet exemptions for health or religious reasons.

Pfaff Harley-Davidson spokesman Brandon Durmann says the turban prototype helps celebrate the “diversity of our ridership”. 

The Tough Turban was conceived and designed by Zulu Alpha Kilo, the dealership’s creative partner.

Zulu founder Zak Mroueh says the the idea came from staff members Dan Cummings and Vic Bath, who is from a Sikh background. 

“He was inspired by his father, who grew up in a small village in India and dreamed of owning a Harley-Davidson, which to him was the ultimate symbol of freedom,” Zak says.

Tough Turban Sikh motorcycle helmet
Sikh Motorcycle Club of Ontario members testing the Tough Turban

The Sikh Motorcycle Club of Ontario is helping to test and improve the Tough Turban.

The full design considerations for the prototype have been open-sourced and released online, enabling any manufacturer in the world access to the virtual blueprint to make their version of a reinforced turban for riders in their region.

Aussie Sikhs

Sikh Motorcycle Club rides for charity sikhs turban
Aussie Sikhs

Sikhs have been in Australia since the 1880s.

There are now about 126,000 Sikhs here, according to the 2016 Australian Bureau of Statistics census. It is the fifth largest religion after Christianity, Islam, Buddhism and Hinduism.

Victoria has seen the sharpest increase in the number of Sikhs with 52,762. The state with the second highest Sikh population is NSW with 31,737 Sikhs, Queensland 17,433, Western Australia 11,897, South Australia 8808, ACT 2142 and Northern Territory and Tasmania have under 700 Sikhs each.

Turban symbol

Amar says it takes about half an hour to wrap a turban which he describes as his “spiritual crown”.

He also points out that Sikh soldiers fighting with Allied forces at Gallipoli did not wear helmets.

The Sikh Council of Australia’s website gives this explanation for wearing the turban.

Unshorn hair (‘Kesh’) are also an essential part of the Sikh Code of Conduct. This makes Turban an essential part of a Sikh’s attire. Like the ‘Kirpan’ issue, this is another issue where the Government and its departments as well as the wider Australian community need to be informed about the importance of the Turban for a Sikh. More importantly, in order to tackle the hate crimes and discrimination based on the ‘looks’ the Australian community is being educated about the distinction between a Sikh and other members of the community who may also wear a Turban or cover their head or perhaps may look the same due to other items of clothing (for example the salwar and kameez for the women). Hopefully the Government will introduce measures which will allow the wider Australian community to be more aware and tolerant and not discriminate against someone wearing a Turban and not assume that they might be a terrorist.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

ATLAS 3 helmet upgrades

British motorcycle helmet manufacturer Ruroc has updated its Atlas helmet to make it quieter and safer.

The Atlas 3.0 helmet is launching on 26 March 2021 with a range of improvements over the Atlas 2.0 helmet which we reviewed here.

Company spokesman Ben Conie says the changes are the result of listening to rider feedback.

They include: three shells sizes, up from two; removing the visor cover; more EPS lining; and a wide range of colours and visors.

Ruroc Atlas 3.0 helmet
Atlas 3.0 full range

Chief among the changes are the improvements to aerodynamics that have made the quiet helmet even quieter such as removing the visor cover which should also improve the field of vision.

The visor mechanism thickness has also been reduced by 25% freeing up more space for EPS which should not only make it safer, but quieter again.

Further decreasing wind noise is a new locking pin with a precision-engineered polycarbonate locker, so there’s no longer a hole in the visor.

The reduced wind noise in the helmet should make the aftermarket Bluetooth system easier to hear without having to crank up the volume.

Ruroc Atlas 3.0 helmet
Bigger buttons

While I’m not a fan of the discrete Bluetooth system’s controls at the back of the helmet, at least the buttons are now three times bigger.

And it’s now easier to install, with integrated cable routing and magnetic fitment.

All Atlas 3.0 helmets are made from T-400 carbon fibre and weigh just 1.4kg. Prices have not yet been released, but as an indication, the Atlas 2.0 was priced from  $US430 ($A620) to $US490 ($A720) depending on colours and graphics.

Speaking of which, I particularly love the classy “Carbonised Gold” model, but you can surely find one you like as there are 16 varieties.Ruroc Atlas 3.0 helmet

There are also nine Pinlock-ready wraparound visors to choose from, including new Chrome and Pink iridescent options.

Swapping visors takes less than 30 seconds, making it easy to match your visor to the conditions.

Thankfully the handy Magnetic Fidlock chinstrap has been retained.

Atlas helmets are ECE 22:05 and DOT FMVSS218 approved.Ruroc Atlas 3.0 helmet



Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

The New IXS 1100 2.2 Full Face Helmet Is Affordable And Has Six New Colors

$119 and Full of Features

The new IXS 1100 2.2 is a low priced full-face helmet option that comes with full ECE 22.05 certification at a fraction of its competitor’s cost.

How cheap is cheap? $119 is cheap, and that’s exactly how much this helmet costs. Granted, you’ll be sacrificing some functionality and benefits that would come along with a more expensive lid, but if you’re in the market for a cheap helmet to get you from point A to B, this is a good option.

IXS is a gear maker from Switzerland, but if you’re located in Germany shipping will be free (I assume this is due to the location of their warehouses/manufacturing).

ISX mentions that this helmet is jam-packed full of comfort features such as removable, breathable, and washable cheek pads, adequate ventilation, and a pin-lock ready visor. Out of all the specs and features that this helmet comes with, the drop-down sun visor was very surprising given the wickedly low pricing for the lid itself. 

The biggest drawback for this helmet in my opinion is the fact that it only comes in two shell sizes, meaning that if you buy a size large, your head’s silhouette is more than likely to be the same size as someone wearing an XXL, accentuating the dreaded ‘bobblehead effect’.

Beyond the features, the helmet comes in a total of six color options. The livery is serviceable and the lid comes in some good color options to keep you visible on the road. As I mentioned previously, this helmet is only going to run you $119, so if you’re in the market for a cheap every-day comfort-oriented bucket on a budget it’s worth looking into.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Fly Racing’s 2021 Product Line Includes Three MX Lids

Flying Into 2021

Fly Racing has revealed it’s 2021 MX racing helmets and their respective liveries/color options with an entirely new cost-effective helmet model to throw into the mix.

Formula Carbon

The Fly Racing Formula Carbon is a lightweight, DOT and ECE approved motocross helmet with a full 12k carbon fiber construction. Being the top-dog of the 2021 lineup, Fly Racing was sure to pack as many features into this helmet as possible. The lid has been designed with as many energy mitigating materials as possible “including RHEON, a leading-edge viscoelastic material – fine-tuned to greatly improve impact management over traditional helmets”. Lots of marketing departments come up with their own lingo to set their products apart from the rest, but the most important takeaway with this helmet is the carbon fiber construction, quick-release cheek pads (makes for easer helmet removal by emergency responders), and the high-level safety ratings. The Formula Carbon comes with a tag of around $582 USD for adults and $546 for children.

Formula CC

The Formula CC is the next step on your way down the pricing ladder. It’s pretty much the same as the Carbon edition boasting both ECE and DOT approved safety ratings with the same AIS (Adaptive Impact System) and RHEON tech but with a Tri-weave composite shell in exchange for the carbon fiber. This helmet should retail for approximately $426.86 USD for adults and $400 USD for youth sizes.

Kinetic

The new Kinetic model is the final helmet I’ll be going over. It drops the ECE approval to bring the pricepoint down (I mean, waaaaay down) to $131 USD for adults and $117 USD for youth. The lid is still DOT approved with its polymer shell and features the same cheek pad release mechanism found in its more expensive siblings.

Voxan Motors

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Nexx adds stealth carbon helmet

Portuguese helmet manufacturer Nexx has added a matte black stealth version to its X.R2 carbon range called the Dark Vision.

But is it just adding to our dangerous “invisibility” on the road?’

Sorry Mate I Didn’t See You (SMIDSY) crashes are among the most common involving motorcycles.

I have written many articles about the numerous studies into the SMIDSY phenomenon.

The causes are just as numerous and include:

However, safety is a shared responsibility, so riders have to accept some of the blame in SMIDSY crashes and should do their best to avoid them by being seen and heard.

This can mean moving around on the road to attract attention, slowing down, beeping the horn to alert drivers and some suggest a loud muffler can help.

While I don’t advocate mandatory bright riding gear, a rider on a matte black bike with a matching helmet and jacket must admit they are a stealth machine that is camouflaged to match the tarmac.

Many riders choose black because it doesn’t show the road grime as much as lighter colours.

And no motorcycle accessories manufacturer ever went broke making loads of black gear.

However, we really can’t lay 100% blame on a driver for not seeing us if we dress that way.

Stealth helmet

Nexx X.R2 Carbon stealth helmet
Dark vision

Getting back to the Nexx stealth helmet, like the X.R2 Carbon and Carbon Zero, the Dark Vision Carbon has a lightweight carbon fibre shell in two sizes — XS-L and XL-XXXL.

The only difference is that it is matte black with a tiny yellow stripe on the chin.

It includes their Air Dynamic System with five intakes on the front and four exhaust vents on the back, so it should be cool in summer.

Inside is a three-layer EPS to absorb impact absorption and a removable and washable CoolMax 3D lining.

It also has Ergo Padding System which means you can select different sized padding for a perfect fit.

Other features are a double D-ring fastener, chin spoiler and anti-scratch polycarbonate Lexan visor with central lock system that has a FastShot system for quick removal.

NEXX helmets usually rate three out of five stars in the highly acknowledged SHARP helmet safety ratings.

The entire production process of NEXX helmets is done in Portugal and not outsourced to other countries as many other helmet manufacturers do.

They boast a team of more than 160 workers skilled in helmet shell sculpture, leather manipulation, stitching, paintwork and engineering. Every helmet has to pass more than 50 control steps.

There is no word yet on prices in Australia, but they are available overseas for $US599.95 (about $A830).

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

No joke: HJC launches Joker helmet

HJC Helmets has had a long association with Marvel Comics and Star Wars and now they add the DC Comics RPHA 11 Pro Joker helmet to their collections.

Of course you’ll pay up to an extra $100 for the privilege of following your nerdy fashion tastes, but who cares when you can look like a super hero or, in this case, the Joker super-villain?

The Joker helmet is designed for road and track use and has an aerodynamic shell structure composed of HJC’s Premium Integrated Matrix (P.I.M. Plus) shell material.

They claim it improves the helmet’s shock-resistance and helps the helmet save some weight.

The HJC RPHA 11 Pro Joker is DOT and ECE 22.05 certified and costs $US599.99 in the US and €599.90 in Europe. There is no word yet on its arrival in Australia or price.

Joker will come in three shell sizes from XS to XXL with a five-year warranty.

Joker features:HJC Joker helmet

  • Full-face helmet, without sun visor
  • Fiber manufacturing (Pim +)
  • 3 different shell sizes depending on the size of the helmet for weight and compactness
  • Double-D ring buckle
  • Foam extraction system facilitated for emergency response
  • Ventilation integrated into the hull
  • Quick screen disassembly, 20 mm HJ screen, semi-flat shape for vision
  • Secure screen closure with double clasp
  • Sizes: XS to XXL

Comics

HJC owns the rights to use Marvel and DC Comics characters to decorate their helmets.

They have produced models such as Captain America, Iron Man, Spiderman, Batman, Punisher, Venom and Youth Avengers.

HJC releases Star Wars and Marvel helmets Spider and Venom
Spider and Venom

HJC also has deals wth the Star Wars franchise and has released RPHA-11 Star Wars helmets, Boba Fett, Kylo Ren and Death Trooper.

Safe helmets

The Korean-made HJC S-17 and FG-ST models are very safe scoring a maximum five stars in the recognised Sharp helmets rating system.

The FG-17 scores four stars, RPHA-11 rates three stars, while the CL-XY II is not listed in the ratings. However, the CL-ST gets three stars.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Wait for Sena Outrush modular helmet

Sena has released its first modular helmet with built-in intercom, but Australians will have to wait for the Outrush as it has still not been Euro-approved for sale here.

At the moment it is only DOT approved for North American markets.

There is no announcement yet on how long Aussie and European riders will have to wait or how much it will cost.

I have reviewed and recommend both the Sena Momentum Lite full face and Savage open-face helmets.

Sena Outrush

In the US, the Outrush comes in matte black and gloss white in sizes small through extra large for just $US199 (about $A280).

That’s amazing since the Savage costs $US299 (about $A421) and is available here for $A499.Sena Outrush modular helmet

So the Outrush should only cost in the low $A300s.

Yet it comes with all the features of the other helmets with integrated Sena Bluetooth technology.

  • They include:
    Jog-dial control
  • HD Intercom Mode
  • Bluetooth 3.0 integration
  • Smartphone connectivity
  • 2-way Intercom
  • 800m range
  • 15 hours talk time
  • 3-hour charge time
  • 5-year warrantySena Outrush modular helmet

The modular helmet comes with a retractable sun visor, multi-density EPS liner and three-way ventilation.

It has a quick-release ratchet strap instead of a D-ring for quick and easy fastening and removal.

Fans of modular helmets like their practicality, versatility and ease of putting them on and taking them off wth your glasses still on.

Some say they can also fill up at the servo without having to remove the helmet.

However, there may be issues with the helmets not having the safe structural integrity of a full-face helmet.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Hightail solves helmet hair issue

One of the biggest issues women cite with riding is how to deal with helmet hair, but now Aussie invention Hightail may have solved the problem.

Hightail ($A55) is simply a hair net device that attaches to the back of the helmet and holds long hair in place. Obviously, it works for long-haired men as well as women!

Inventors Jen Burch and Jon Dazeley of Sydney say Hightail stops long hair from splitting, breaking and becoming tangled in the wind.Hightail helmet hair

There are many specialty scarves and ties on the market that promise to deal with helmet hair.

Some work with long hair, some with short hair, but all of them you place in your hair.

“The key difference with Hightail is it attaches to the helmet, so there is no extra steps to use,” Jon says.

“It also means you can have a slow-mo movie moment when you take the helmet off and your hair cascades down.”

Hightail origin

Jen and Jon came up with the idea on a ride from Sydney to the Snowy Mountains.

“It was a long ride and Jen’s hair came loose from where she normally had it tucked down her jacket,” Jon says.Hightail helmet hair

“It was a tangled mess when we got to Jindabyne. We were cold, hungry and the tangled drama was not fun!”

So they set about inventing the Hightail for which a patent is now pending.

Hightail reviewHightail helmet hair

Jon sent me a Hightail for review even though he noted “you don’t have enough hair to review the product (neither to I) but maybe you could suggest someone you know”.

I did and she says it is easy to use and works just fine, m even with “product” in your hair.

Instructions are included with the product, but it’s best to watch this video featuring Jen for a more comprehensive explanation of how to attach the device, even though it is really rather simple.

Jon says Hightail will fit on most helmets but some can be problematic.

“If you are concerned about the particular helmet you want to install, please let us know the make and model and we will be able give some insight,” he says.

About the inventors

Hightail helmet hair
Jen and Jon

Jen grew up in the American Naval town oif Virginia Beach, joined the Navy in 2001 and was shipped to Japan three years later where she bought a Suzuki GSXF 400 Slingsling to get around.

She meet Kiwi-born Jon through Eharmony in 2013, when he was transferred to the US office of by his Sydney company.

Jon returned to Australia six weeks later and managed to convince Jen to first come for a holiday and then move to Sydney permanently in 2014.

Jen now rides a Triumph Bonneville while Jon, who has been riding most of his life, rides a Kawasaki GTR1400.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com