Tag Archives: Helmets

Noise-reduction Bluetooth for helmets

The world’s first active noise-cancelling helmet bluetooth system for a range of helmets is now available for order with delivery expected later this year.

Developed by DAAL Noise Control Systems in collaboration with Nolan helmets’ N-Com Bluetooth intercoms, the DAAL DXL-5 can be ordered by clicking here.

It will cost 5990 Norwegian Kroner which is about $A930, €630 or $US680 and you will need to pay half when you order.

It is initially only available for use in the Nolan X-Lite X1005 helmet, but units will be available for other helmets probably from next year.

This device should be a huge safety and comfort boost for riders to avoid hearing loss and fatigue from dangerous wind noise frequencies that can reach 110dB or as much as an AC/DC concert, even in the quietest of helmets.

Critics should note that even though this is called an active noise-cancelling (ANC) system, it is actually a noise-reduction system.

Earplugs are a noise cancelling system. But on the road, they can be dangerous as they prevent riders hearing important noises such as car horns, sirens and screeching tyres.

The DAAL DXL-5 is more correctly referred to as an active noise reduction system that filters out the most dangerous frequencies caused by wind noise.

DAAL founder and CEO Dag Loe says it is also different to the noise-cancelling earphones we may be used to.

“Unlike generic noise cancellation headphones, our system is developed specifically to perform in the harsh and demanding noise environment inside a motorcycle helmet – and actually performs well for wind noise,” he says.

Active noise-cancelling systems generate a reverse sound wave of the background noise and play it through the speakers to cancel out the unwanted, harmful noise.

The DAAL system consists of a microphone next to your ear, speakers by your ears and am eight-hour battery in the back of the helmet. Total weight of the system is 150g.

Because of the various elements required, the system cannot be an aftermarket, retro-fit unit like most simple Bluetooth intercoms that clip to the side of your helmet. 

Instead, the DAAL DXL-5 has to be separately designed for each helmet.

Apart from reducing noise, it connects via Bluetooth 4.1 class 1 to most smart phones, GPS and other Bluetooth devices including many other helmet intercoms.

Sena was the first to introduce a helmet with an integrated electronic noise-cancelling intercom system. It is not yet available in Australia.

The DAAL system will be the first to fit a wide range of helmets.

We first published news about the development of this product back in 2018 when it was excepted to be delivered in 2020. 

The intervening years of the pandemic have no doubt interrupted development with delivery expected later this year for use in the Nolan X-Lite X1005 with more applications available from next year.

Dag says their goal is to make DAAL ANC available for as many motorcyclists as possible, regardless of brands.

“From a scaling perspective, universal aftermarket sales is the way to go,” he says.

Dag Loe

“However, since there are some specific challenges regarding system-helmet integration that needs to be solved in order to make a product delivery at all – we are extremely grateful for the opportunity to work with an industry leader like Nolan (and N-Com). 

“The basic form factor of the resulting product can in principle fit into any helmet (we are not removing any EPS, we are sticking to the standard 40mm shallow intercom speaker recess that you find in most modern helmets, and so forth). 

“However the specific timeline moving forward is not yet set, seeing as we are currently in a period where our focus is heavily on learning from customer feedback and making sure we execute our deliveries properly!

DAAL claim production will be limited in 2022 due to the global component shortage.

Consequently, we have not yet been assigned a unit for review, but have been promised one when they are available.

I have high hopes for this device as I, like many other mature-aged riders, suffer from tinnitus (ringing in the ears) from years of riding. Click here for more information.

I wear special earplugs to filter out the damaging wind noise, but still allow me to hear important sirens, horns and other noises, as well as my helmet intercom.

They work well, but I would prefer a less fiddly system integrated into a helmet like the DAAL system or the integrated unit in Sena’s Momentum helmet.

I’ve tried Bose noise-cancelling headphones under my helmet, but they are uncomfortable and can’t cope with the amount of wind and other noise developed when riding a motorcycle. It’s a much louder and more unpredictable noise environment than, say, on a plane where active noise cancelling headphones work quite well.

Given the amount of development time and specific research into wind noise for motorcyclists, this should be suitable for riders.

DAAL product tester and Norwegian enduro racer Pål Anders Ullevålseter says the reduced sound levels from the device provide a much more comfortable environment for the rider.

Pål Anders Ullevålseter

“I experience less fatigue when driving with DAAL ANC, and do not get the same pain in the ears that I do when I drive without it,” he says. 

“It is easier to hear what is happening around you when you drive with the system, and by and large the riding experience is better.”

DAAL product designer Kjetil Grimsæth says their active noise reduction technology will, in principle, fit into any helmet without compromising safety.

Kjetil Grimsæth

“At the same time, DAAL ANC is self-learning and adapts to each individual user,” he says. 

“This is built on the fundament of a controller core that has been developed to cope with very demanding noise environments.”

DAAL boss Dag says their product will provide a more comfortable ride as well as preserve their hearing.

“Many riders have been looking forward to being able to order noise reduction for their motorcycle helmet,” he says. 

The combination of very high sound pressure levels and unpredictable noise characteristics, as well as the need to simultaneously ensure safety, were the challenges DAAL had to solve in the development of DAAL ANC.

DAAL Noise Control Systems was developed in labs and wind tunnels in the tech-sphere around NTNU university in Trondheim, Norway.

They have received substantial investment from several successful fund-raising campaigns through the equity crowdfunding platform Folkeinvest.

Dag and co-founder Sigmund Birkeland also invested all their savings in the project and Dag even had to sell his motorcycle.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Flagship Aussie smart helmet launched

Australian smart-helmet manufacturer Forcite has now launched a flagship model MK1S helmet with extra battery life, better comfort and aero, and hi-fi speakers.

The company has raised millions through public equity crowdfunding and shares to build more varieties of their MK1 helmets and expand into the world market later this year.

The first of their new models is the MK1S which is now available for order on www.forcitehelmets.com at $1299.

Every MK1S helmet is built to order in Sydney to the rider’s size, finish and customisation specifications.

Customers will be given a build slot with the first orders delivered in June.

The MK1 helmet features Forcite’s patented RAYDAR helmet system, combining Formula 1 LED technology, audio interactivity, military-grade camera recording and a fingertip handlebar controller.

Click here for more details.

Forcite Mk1S

The Mk1S features battery life of more than seven hours while using all the smart features except the camera which reduces life to about 3-4 hours.

It takes about 90 minutes to recharge via a USB-C port.

The helmet accommodates phone calls and Bluetooth 5.0 communication functionality is in the pipeline for 2023.

It has also been updated with the new visor Pinlock ready, an improved camera lens, more comfortable liner and subtle aero styling updates.

What’s included in the box:

  • Forcite MK1S smart helmet
  • Handlebar controller, controller thumbscrew, spacers and mount
  • Pre-installed Harman Kardon speakers
  • Controller handlebar mount spacers x2
  • Screwdriver for Camera Shield and Handlebar Mount
  • USB-C charging cable
  • USB power adaptor
  • Instant media access cable
  • Media access USB adaptor
  • Forcite stickers
  • Forcite Authenticity card
  • Product pamphlet
  • Size swap card

I have not yet tested the Forcite MK1 or MK1S helmets so I cannot comment on their functionality, comfort or quality. However, the company says one is coming soon, so I will update with a review.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Helmet and bike gear ratings combined

The award-winning Australian MotoCAP website now includes helmet safety and comfort ratings as well as its usual ratings for jacket, pants and gloves.

The Australian NSW Consumer Rating and Assessment of Safety Helmets (CRASH) ratings previously published on crash.org.au, will now be located at MotoCAP.com.au so riders can get all their safety gear info in one place.

The MotoCAP safety intitiative launched in September 2018 and is the first of its type in the world.

It is based on evidence from crash injury research and the test protocols of the current industry standard. It is an initiative of state automobile clubs and transport departments.

CRASH is a consortium of Transport for NSW, Transport Accident Commission and Insurance Australia Group.

It tests 30 helmets each year against a range of criteria, including protection and comfort before awarding a star rating out of five for each criteria.

While motoCAP is unique, CRASH is similar to the British SHARP helmet safety scheme which has tested and rated hundreds of helmets, almost all of which are available for sale in Australia.

You may ask why helmets are still being crash tested in Australia despite European-standard helmets being available here for several years.Motorcycle dealership sale accessories jeans helmets best motorcycle helmets

Centre for Road Safety active executive director Craig Moran says that while all helmets sold here meet either Australian Standards or global standard UNECE 22.05, CRASH ratings “give riders more information so they can chose the best helmet for their situation”.

By “more information” they mean ratings out of five for safety and comfort. The standards just say they passed the tests, but don’t provide ratings.

For example, a helmet only has to achieve the lowest one-star CRASH rating to pass Australian and Euro helmet certification.

AS/NZ 1698 and UNECE 22.05 certification make no mention at all of comfort which is important for reducing rider fatigue which can distract your attention.

Despite not having as many helmets tested as SHARP, having the CRASH safety ratings included on the one website is convenient for riders.

And if your helmet is not listed, then you can still go to the SHARP site.

This year’s CRASH results reveal only nine out of the 30 helmets tested achieved four out of five stars for crash protection safety. The new ratings can be found here.

Helmet still crash tested in Australia rotation
CRASH testing

Click here for more information about CRASH testing procedures.

I have previously researched helmet ratings from CRASH and SHARP to assess whether price correlates with safety.

We found some surprising results! Click here for the full story.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Thrilling race video from Summer Night Series

Australia’s first smart-helmet manufacturer, Forcite, has created an exciting cockpit-view race video filmed with their clever helmet.

Filmed in collaboration with Cam Elkins of Stories of Bike, Under Lights features the amateur racing event – The Summer Night Series.

Forcite spokesman Charlie Stack says it is a short story that explores the tight-knit community and culture that has formed around Australia’s newest and most exciting race series. 

It is hosted by St George Motorcycle Club over four rounds under the state of the art Floodlight installation at Sydney Motorsport Park.

“St George Motorcycle Club started the series two seasons ago in an effort to bring something fresh and exciting to an otherwise stagnant Australian amateur motorcycle racing scene,” Charlie says. 

“Driven forward by a raft of dedicated organisers, volunteers, and competitors, the series is quickly becoming a crowd favourite for Sydney based spectators, and the club hopes to grow the event in the upcoming season and beyond.

Also showcased is Forcite-sponsored rider Aidan Hayes with his Forcite helmet providing a unique cockpit view of the close racing.

He battles his way through the field from a pit lane start to end in a photo finish, separated from a fellow rider by mere centimetres.

Forcite has launched a public equity crowdfunding campaign through Equitise to build more varieties of their MK1 helmets and expand into the world market.

The cashed-up company has already attracted funding from Atlas Advisors Australia, bringing their combined post-sales funding to $8 million.

Forcite smart helmet

The MK1 helmet features Forcite’s patented RAYDAR helmet system, combining Formula 1 LED technology, audio interactivity, military-grade camera recording and a fingertip handlebar controller.

Click here for more details.

Forcite’s smart helmet is designed to deliver road alerts and visual and audio turn-by-turn navigation without a phone, enabling riders to see or predict things before they happen to avoid danger.

It also automatically records dashcam footage of multiple lanes without distracting the rider.

All the technology is incorporated into the helmet without the need for an externally mounted device.

Forcite Chief Executive Officer Alfred Boyadgis claims the helmet’s technology which warns of road hazards with flashing lights, can reduce the number of accidents and save lives.

The Sydney based motorcycle technology company aims to provide a safer, more dynamic motorcycling experience with it’s Forcite MK1 smart motorcycle helmet. The world’s first ECE 22.05 approved smart helmet has rapidly sold out every time it has been available.

Now, 1380 riders are using the Forcite MK1 on the road and track with 14,000 more registering their interest to buy.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Touratech announces new all-roads helmet

German adventure motorcycle accessories company Touratech has announced a new adventure helmet which can quickly convert into a road helmet without the need for any tools.

The Touratech Aventuro Rambler is available in Australia now for $1090 in seven sizes from XS to 3XL.

Like its previous helmets, I suspect this is made for the company by fellow countryman Schuberth helmets who make high-quality models that score well on independent safety tests such as the British SHARP helmet safety scheme ratings.

The most interesting and cleverst feature of the ECE 2205 and DOT approved Touratech Aventuro Rambler is its ability to be used on-road and off-road.

It can be transformed from a hybrid adventure helmet with peak and visor into an airy cross helmet with peak and goggles or a streamlined road helmet with little effort, all without the aid of any tools.

The Rambler also has the vital safety feature of red emergency pull tabs that release the cheek pads in the event of a crash so the rider doesn’t sustain neck injury when removing the helmet.Touratech Aventuro Rambler

Aussie riders should find it comfortable in the summer heat thanks to the adjustable four-vent system and replaceable and washable COOLMAX inner padding.

You can wear it with the visor attached or with goggles which are not included. However, there is an integrated goggle strap guide to keep them in place.Touratech Aventuro Rambler

The helmet comes in three outer shell sizes and it’s not super-light.

It weighs 1600g for the XS-S in on-road setting and 1750g in off-road mode.

The middle outer shell (sizes M-L) weighs 1625g on-road and 1775 off-road, while the large outer shell (XL-3XL) is 1650g and a whopping 1800g.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Aussies support smart helmet company

Aussie riders are getting behind smart-helmet manufacturer Forcite which is on track to raise $A1m through a public equity crowdfunding campaign through Equitise.

Since it launched in December 2021, $920,000 has been raised with one week to go until it closes.

Together with Series A Preference Shares which raised $4.6m the Sydney-based motorcycle technology start-up is on track to raise about $6m to build more varieties of their MK1 helmets and expand into the world market later this year.

Company spokesman Charlie Stack says they now have sold Forcite MK1 helmets to 1380 riders with 14,000 more registering their interest across Australia, US and Europe.

“The equity crowdfunding campaign speaks to our DNA of community involvement in the company,” says Charlie.

“Since the early days of Forcite, we have involved motorcycle riders in the design process with a test pilot group of 8000 riders giving us feedback and input on our technology.

“We have had many reach out to ask if they could invest, thanks to equity crowdfunding this is now possible and our campaign on Equitise is on track to raise over $1m.

“Being part of the motorcycle community is a pillar to our business, 60% of our staff ride and we’ve always wanted the input from motorcycle enthusiasts.

“On the road, we’re getting a very good response from Aussie riders who are loving the integrated tech, alerts, navigation, app and lightweight design.”

The MK1 helmet features Forcite’s patented RAYDAR helmet system, combining Formula 1 LED technology, audio interactivity, military-grade camera recording and a fingertip handlebar controller.

Click here for more details.

Forcite Mk1 smart helmet
Helmet, handlebar controller and free app

Forcite’s smart helmet is designed to deliver road alerts and visual and audio turn-by-turn navigation without a phone, enabling riders to see or predict things before they happen to avoid danger.

It also automatically records dashcam footage of multiple lanes without distracting the rider.

All the technology is incorporated into the helmet without the need for an externally mounted device.

Forcite Chief Executive Officer Alfred Boyadgis claims the helmet’s technology which warns of road hazards with flashing lights, can reduce the number of accidents and save lives.

Forcite smart helmet delivered in December
Alfred with early-design helmets

“Thanks to input from riders across Australia, Forcite has created a more dynamic, exciting and safe riding experience with our smart helmet technology.” Alfred says.

“Our expert team of designers, developers, and engineers are also motorcycle enthusiasts who use Forcite technology daily so they can constantly test, learn and make iterative improvements after every ride.

“They have their fingers well and truly on the pulse. With this investment from venture capital and equity crowdfunding we’re expanding globally and building our R&D pipeline for the next generation of Forcite motorcycle helmets and in-bike technologies.”

Charlie says their next model, the MK1S, will launch in April.

“We also have a number of partnerships in the works with global motorcycle manufacturers to integrate smart technologies within bikes as smart bikes and E-bikes take off,” he says.

The first owners of the helmet have their own Facebook group and there is a Founders club where the riders give the Forcite design engineers feedback and ideas to improve on the smart helmet.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Atlas 4.0 claimed to be quieter

British motorcycle helmet manufacturer Ruroc has only been around a few years but is now set to release the fourth generation of its Atlas full-face helmet.

The company claims its ECE 22:05 and DOT FMVSS218 approved, carbon-fibre Atlas 4.0 helmet will be even quieter than the last model.

I reviewed the Atlas 3.0 helmet in October 2021 and found it quite comfortable and full of handy features, but still had issues with noise and the lack of ventilation control.

Company spokesman Ben Conie says they have again listened to rider feedback in updating the helmet.

Changes include “upgrades to the internal acoustics” (whatever that means), shell structure and air flow.

The Atlas 3.0 is my go-to helmet in summer for its ventilation, but in winter it might be too “fresh” as the only vent you can close is the chin vent.Ruroc Atlas 4.0

Now all four vents in the chin, sides and top can be controlled. That might also reduce wind noise as the side vents are close to the ears.Ruroc Atlas 4.0Ruroc Atlas 4.0

They also say the “fully re-engineered internal structure fits seamlessly against the lower helmet trim, reducing turbulent air-flow within liner gaps” to reduce noise.Ruroc Atlas 4.0

The Atlas 4.0 will be launched on February 18 when more details will be available.

So far there is no word about price, but the Atlas 3.0 helmet started at the same price as the Atlas 2.0 at $A630.

However special graphic options can takes the price to $A810 for the Nebula Carbon and Liquid Carbon models.

You can register for details when it launches by clicking here, or stay tuned to MortorbikeWriter.com.

I also hope they retain the superb boxing which features 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.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Updated inView2 helmet light coming

The makers of the inVIEW helmet light hope to raise more than $US1m to develop an update of their innovative product that not only indicates when brakes are applied or a rider slows down on the throttle, but also shows a rider’s intention to turn.

Third Eye Design, founded in 2009, have announced they are producing inView2 and hoping to fund it through their first public stock offering.

Common shares cost $US5.17 each with a minimum investment of $US248.16. Supporters can invest via credit card, ACH, or wire with funds held in escrow until close.

There is no date yet for the new model nor any information about how it will be updated.

The stick-on bluetooth inVIEW light has been available for three years at $US249.95, but the current model has been reduced to $US149.95 ahead of the new model.

It features an accelerometer that activates the brake light even when just slowing down on the throttle which many riders do.

inVIEW helmet Brake light and indicator
inVIEW

We can’t see why they would be illegal here as they do not replace the motorcycle’s brake lights or indicators.

However, Victorian police might take a dim view of this product since they still believe any addition to a helmet is illegal.

Some might think this is a great idea as it lifts these important lights higher where drivers are more likely to see them.

It could also be a good safety feature with its brake light that illuminates when the rider slows down on the throttle, rather than the brakes.

How inVIEW works

Macna Saber gloves

The inVIEW unit has bright LEDs and is powered by two AAA batteries that they claim will last for months.

Riders get a warning when batteries are low or if there is a problem with the system. 

It snaps on via a 3M hook and loop mounting system that Third Eye Design claim is unobtrusive when the unit is not attached and snaps off in the event of a crash.

There is also a small transmitter that can be located close to the rear brake light and indicators.

They say it draws “almost no power and works on all motorcycles, including those with CANBus electrical systems”.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Forcite helmets launch public funding bid

Australian smart-helmet manufacturer Forcite is today launching a public equity crowdfunding campaign through Equitise to build more varieties of their MK1 helmets and expand into the world market.

The cashed-up company has already attracted funding from Atlas Advisors Australia, bringing their combined post-sales funding to $8 million.

As of yesterday, they reached their $500,000 goal after investments by close contacts in the 24 hours prior to the launch of their public equity funding campaign.

The campaign now goes public with close to 1000 expressions of interest and $2.5m “soft commitments”, according to a Forcite statement. So they are more than likely to also reach their $3 million cap.

The MK1 helmet features Forcite’s patented RAYDAR helmet system, combining Formula 1 LED technology, audio interactivity, military-grade camera recording and a fingertip handlebar controller.

Click here for more details.

Forcite Mk1 smart helmet
Helmet, handlebar controller and free app

Forcite’s smart helmet is designed to deliver road alerts and visual and audio turn-by-turn navigation without a phone, enabling riders to see or predict things before they happen to avoid danger.

It also automatically records dashcam footage of multiple lanes without distracting the rider.

All the technology is incorporated into the helmet without the need for an externally mounted device.

Forcite Chief Executive Officer Alfred Boyadgis claims the helmet’s technology which warns of road hazards with flashing lights, can reduce the number of accidents and save lives.

Forcite smart helmet delivered in December
Alfred with early-design helmets

Over the last two years, the company has taken a collaborative approach to designing and manufacturing smart helmets, using a group of Australian test pilots to give valuable on road feedback to Forcite’s Design Engineers.

Alfred believes the company’s success is down to the involvement of the motorcycle community and says equity crowdfunding is another way to foster this partnership with riders.

“Thanks to the motorcycle community, the team at Forcite never rides alone. Whether it’s feedback on the MK1 product features, feel of the padding, or even down to what’s in the box, riders across Australia have built the MK1 smart helmet with us,” he says.

“Now, they can take ownership of the company by investing in Forcite via this equity crowdfunding offer.”

Draggin Hydro waterproof jacket and pants

The Sydney based motorcycle technology company aims to provide a safer, more dynamic motorcycling experience with it’s Forcite MK1 smart motorcycle helmet. The world’s first ECE 22.05 approved smart helmet has rapidly sold out every time it has been available.

Now, 1380 riders are using the Forcite MK1 on the road and 14,000 more have registered their interest to buy.

The company will use the investment to galvanise plans to launch in the US, extend the range of Forcite helmets to different riding styles and develop integrated motorcycle and helmet technologies alongside tier 1 manufacturers, with some promising relationships already in the works.

Alfred says the global market for motorcycle gear and accessories is growing 7.2%.

“We expect to take 20% of the premium motorcycle gear market by 2025 currently valued at $US2.7 billion per annum,” he says.

The company has received funding from notable sources in the past; in 2019, from Australia’s longest-running research commercialisation fund, Uniseed.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Survey: How do you rate helmet comfort?

The Australian Motorcycle Council is asking riders to help them work out a rating system for helmet comfort via an online survey.

Results will be supplied to the Australian Consumer Rating and Assessment of Safety Helmets (CRASH) working group to review.

They will include these results in their helmet comfort rating system.

The survey asks riders to rate helmets on seven factors:

  1. Visor’s ability to resist fogging up
  2. Ability to seal out moisture
  3. Noise inside helmet
  4. Ventilation inside helmet
  5. Aerodynamic neck loading (a wind tunnel test)
  6. Helmet weight
  7. Peripheral view

CRASH is run by a consortium of government agencies, insurance companies and the Australian Motorcycle Council to provide riders with independent and consistent information on the levels of protection from injury in a crash provided by motorcycle helmets and the comfort level of the helmet.

It is similar to the comprehensive British SHARP helmet safety scheme which has tested and rated hundreds of helmets.

But they don’t rate comfort which can be just as important as safety because a helmet that is not comfortable can be a distraction that could cause a crash.

Of particular interest in Australia is the ability to keep your head cool in our oppressive summer heat and humidity.

Sadly it is nearly impossible to test the comfort of a helmet in a shop.

You only get to test that once you buy the helmet and ride with it for several hours. And then it’s too late if you discover painful pressure points, or noise, aero and ventilation issues.

Best Full Face Helmets

Perhaps we need testing rooms at motorcycle shops where you can try on a helmet and sit on a couch for an hour with a fan blowing hot air at your head!

Meanwhile, an independent helmet comfort rating system is a good guide.

So get cracking and fill in the survey now by clicking here.  It only takes seconds.

But be quick as the survey closes on 13 December 2021.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com