Tag Archives: Motorcycle helmet

Would you buy a Chinese-made helmet?

Would you wear a Chinese-made helmet, jacket, gloves, or motorcycle, in the wake of the escalating trade war with Australia?

The Communist Party of China has imposed hefty tariffs and threatened other measures on some Australian exports after Prime Minister Scott Morrison called for an independent inquiry into the origin of the coronavirus outbreak.

When we published a recent article about the CFMoto FC1250J, the biggest capacity bike to come out of China, it was met by uproar from readers saying they would never buy products made in China.

CFMoto CF1250J police bikeCFMoto CF1250J police bike

Comments included:

I feel sorry for the importers of Chinese products in the future because the Chinese Government have shown their contempt for Australia which has fired up our patriotism to buy local, or from any other country except China or not at all.

Even if this were the world’s greatest motorcycle (which I doubt it is), after learning how Australia has been treated by China in recent days, I would rather roll on my balls before supporting Chinese manufacturing. Let’s get our onshore manufacturing started again and make a real effort to self sufficiency. In the mean time, support Australian made.No Chinese products for me after there political bullying and deception

One might have considered it before China decided to be an arsehole. I would rather walk than buy anything from them.

Yet Michael Poynton, director of Australian importer Mojo Motorcycles, says they have “not experienced any backlash”.

He says CFMoto sales have actually increased over the first four months of 2020.

Chinese components

The fact is, most motorcycles have some Chinese components and most motorcycle accessories and rider gear such as jackets and helmets are made in China. Even established European brands get much of their gear made in China.

Check the labels in your gear and see where it is made. You may be surprised.

So good luck trying to impose your own personal trade ban on China.

And while Australia suffers from the Chinese-imposed trade war, the US has just announced that Chinese motorcycle helmets would be exempt from recent traffic hikes.

American icon Harley-Davidson is also set to begin production in China of a range of smaller-capacity bikes, unless the new boss changes plans.

Harley's 338cc bike to be made by Qianjiang Motorcycle barenuckleHarley’s 338cc bike to be made by Qianjiang Motorcycle

Even the first Australian full-size electric motorcycle, the Savic, will have parts made in China.

Meanwhile, Chinese manufacturers are ripping off motorcycle designs for their own markets.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Aldi helmets ‘age disgracefully’

Aldi claims the gear they offer in their annual motorcycle gear sale is safe, but one Sydney reader says at least silver Aldi helmets don’t age well.

Ray Schriever bought a stack of helmets from Aldi in 2015 and all the silver paint has now crazed and become sticky, despite limited use.

We contacted Aldi for comment but have not yet received a reply. This article will be updated if/when they reply.

Ray says he bought a few spare helmets in various sizes and kept them in their bags in the garage for visiting friends.

Aldi helmetsAldi helmets Ray Schriever

He bought three silver/grey Aldi helmets – two full-faced and one open-faced — plus two black open-faced Aldi helmets.

“Having recently built a sidecar I thought I might go for a tootle with one of the open-faced helmets,” Ray says.

“To my surprise I had a devil of a time getting it out of the bag.

“The helmet was sticky all over. I took it to the sink and gave it a wash but the sticky mess just congealed or balled up.Aldi helmets Ray Schriever

“I sprayed the helmet with isopropyl alcohol and it stated to remove the sticky coating with a fair bit of elbow grease.

“I soon realised that I was also removing the outer coating of paint on the helmet. That definitely shouldn’t be happening.”

Ray then checked his other helmets and found the same issue with all those with silver paint.Aldi helmets Ray Schriever

“All of my helmets (eight in all) share the same shelf in my garage so it isn’t an environmental issue as other brands and other colours are not affected, including my ancient RJays helmet that sits there unused and uncovered,” Ray says.

“The full-face helmets are untouched but sticky on both the grey section and the patterned sections of the helmet.

“The difference between the layers of paint can be clearly seen on the open-faced grey helmet.

“The top layer dissolves in either isopropyl alcohol or methylated spirits. Both are alcohol bases and shouldn’t affect cured paint.Aldi helmets Ray Schriever

“Pretty disappointing really. Never had anything like this right back to pudding basin days.

“Would have expected these barely used helmets to last instead of self destruct.”

Helmet safety

We do not suggest this paint issue would also affect helmet integrity in the event of a crash.

However, we do note that most helmet manufacturers recommend you replace your helmet after five years of use.

In this case, the helmets have not had regular use.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Are race replica helmets still a thing?

With the absence of racing due to the pandemic lockdown and the waning of sportsbike popularity we wonder how many riders are still keen on race replica helmets.

They used to be very popular, but we haven’t seen as many in recent years.

Some riders wear them to announce their allegiance to a particular rider or motorcycle team while others simply want to look like a racer.

Most of these helmets are not made to the exact standard as worn by the racers, but are mass-produced cheap versions.

Some don’t even have the exact graphics and sponsor stickers.

Yet riders will pay more for the privilege of wearing them.

Italian helmet company AGV is known for its range of race replicas, in particular for nine-time world champ Italian Valentino Rossi.

Australian importer Link International has announced a “40 foot container” of AGV helmets has just arrived including two new race replicas.

AGV K3 race replica helmetAGV Valentino Rossi Race Replica K3 helmet

The latest addition to the K3 SV range is a tribute to Rossi.

It features “VR 46” on each side, Rossi’s initials and racing number in the customary fluoro yellow plus a black base and bright blue highlights.

The AGV K3 SV is an affordable version of the Pista GP RR and Corsa R helmets and even includes a similar aerodynamic rear spoiler to reduce wind turbulence at high track speeds.

Actually these spoilers are common on many sports helmets these days and the aero effect really only occurs at seeds above about 20km/h, so they are of no use at all on our roads.

A standard solid-colour K3 costs $349, while a multi-coloured helmet is $369 and the exact same helmet in frame replica graphics is $399.

K1 Mir race replica helmetAGV Joan Mir K1 Race Replica helmet

AGV also has a K1 Mir helmet in race replica helmet in honour of Moto3 2017 world champion Joan Mir (above) of Spain.

We can’t imagine too many Aussie riders inspired to honour the Spaniard.

However, they may be attracted by the helmet’s attractive camo design with its sharp lines and black, white, silver and grey along with bright, bold fluoro yellow highlights.

Also, the sponsor names, race number and other graphics have been deleted, so it doesn’t look like the usual race replica.

However, you will pay extra for it at $349, compared with $279 for solid colours and $299 for multi-colours.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

BMW Motorrad offers five-year helmet warranty

BMW Motorrad has extended its helmet warranty from two years to five years which is basically the suggested life of a helmet anyway.

Most helmet manufacturers suggest you swap a helmet over at fives years mainly because of the degrading of the interior lining.

Several other helmet manufacturers such as Shark, Shoei and Schuberth offer five-year warranties, while Nolan offers a seven-year warranty.

BMW warrantyBMW Motorrad motorcycle helmet life warranty

The BMW warranty will be backdated to the start of this year. The warranty applies to all helmets bought from a participating BMW Motorrad dealer.

The warranty covers material and manufacturing defects of the product.

However, BMW Motorrad communication systems are excluded from the warranty extension.

This means that the warranty expressly does not apply if a defect or damage is caused by improper handling, an accident or the improper installation of the system and accessories – even by third parties.

Scratches on the visor, sun shield, helmet shell or plastic parts are also not covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.

Most manufacturers have similar warranty exclusions.BMW Motorrad motorcycle helmet life warranty

Helmet life span

The life of a helmet is about five years as the glues, resins and other materials used in construction lose their effectiveness and the lining deteriorates.

Be aware that your helmet may have sat on the shelf for some time before you bought it, so the life of the helmet may be shorter. Ask the dealer to prove date of manufacture.

However, the BMW five-year warranty is from the day of purchase, not manufacture.

Prolong helmet lifeBMW Motorrad motorcycle helmet life warranty

You can prolong your helmet if you store it properly when you’re not using it. Keep it in a cool, dry place and store it inside the helmet bag in which it came.

It’s not the outside that deteriorates, but the inside foam and fabric lining. If you notice the helmet getting loose or some of the lining coming out or it leaves little black flakes in your hair, then it’s time to retire it, whether it has reached the five years or not.

Frequent use, sweating in your helmet, having greasy hair or using a lot of “hair product” can all aid in compacting the foam and making the interior lining degenerate faster than normal use.

You can also prolong the life of your helmet interior by wearing a helmet liner, balaclava or scarf that keeps the sweat off.

Another good reason to replace your helmet every five years is that helmet technology is advancing all the time and a new helmet is going to offer more protection than something five years old.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Helmet Scratch Repair – 5 Top Tips

If you have been riding for any time then chances are you have managed to scratch your motorcycle helmet – more than once!

In this article we look through five top tips to help identify, repair or reduce the prominence of scratches on your helmet.

Disclaimer: Consult a qualified expert or retailer if you have damaged your helmet. If there is any question about the structural integrity of your helmet from a road accident, dropping or impacting your helmet you may have compromised its safety performance. Always consult an expert to ensure your personal safety and legal compliance. This article is provided as a guide only for minor cosmetic scratches. We do not advocate modifying your helmet. Following any part of this guidance is done at your own risk – use common sense or live with the scratch! We accept no liability for your action or inaction.

If you are a perfectionist or a fellow OCD sufferer like me, then you like to keep your bike and riding gear in top condition – scratches and imperfections are the enemy.

To repair or improve scratches on your motorcycle helmet there are a few key steps to follow:

  1. Identifying if you are dealing with a scratch or a scuff.
  2. Consider your options for scratch repair carefully – they are:
      • 2.1 Do nothing – Consider leaving it as you may make it worse!
      • 2.2 Renew your gear or get it repaired by a professional – Easiest but most expensive option.
      • 2.3 Tactically place a sticker over it  – Cheap and effective where scratches can be concealed.
      • 2.4 Use a suitable permanent marker – This may not work or endure weathering.
      • 2.5 Apply touch-up paint – Effective but potentially tricky blend of art and science.
  3. Test a small inconspicuous area before you bring any chemicals into contact with your helmet to check for any ‘reaction’ with the helmet surface. You have been warned.
  4. Clean your helmet surface to ensure good adhesion of stickers, pen or paint – if you choose any option other than #1.
  5. Ensure colour match. Before you paint your scratch, test a small inconspicuous area. Colours may change or reflect light differently when they dry so select carefully and don’t rush it.

1. Scratch VS. Scuff – The first question to answer

There is a world of difference between a scuff and a scratch. The top search result on YouTube for ‘helmet scratch repair’ shows a guy demonstrating how a ‘scratch’ can be removed by rubbing cotton wool doused in lighter fluid! This is, in fact, a scuff which he removes, not a scratch.

A scuff is when you rub up against a surface such as painted wall  and the paint rubs off on to the helmet. A common scenario is walking though a doorway and bumping your helmet on the door frame. Fixing a scuff like this is simply a case of selecting a suitable cleaning agent and carefully rubbing off the scuff, taking care to not damage the paint or surface of your helmet.

A scratch is very different. A scratch is where something hard, sharp and abrasive removes some helmet paint or clear coat.

To see if you have a scratch or scuff, gently move your thumbnail over the mark.

If your thumbnail dips into the mark and makes an audible high-pitched clicking sound, it’s likely a scratch. If it sounds dull, it’s probably a scuff.

To remove scuffs, try a gentle rub with your finger or a quality microfibre cloth to see if you can remove it. If not, try a cleaning agent that is suited to the helmet’s shell material. Start with a mild specialist helmet cleaner before trying any stronger options. Be careful as solvents are not recommended and can not only spoil the finish, but damage the helmet shell’s integrity. Take particular care with matte or satin finishes. Always spot check in a small inconspicuous area where possible.

WARNING: Never use strong solvents like Cellulose thinners, Xylene or Acetone. They are likely to compromise primary paint and helmet construction materials.

(Note: In the video I used acetone, a thinning solvent, on a matte finish. This is generally a bad idea unless you are experienced or comfortable with the risk of marring. I had already tried specialist helmet cleaner to no avail on the scuff, though I probably should have tried methylated spirits first which is less harsh than acetone. However, I moved quickly and lightly to minimise marring though as you can see in the above image under bright light I did introduce slight marring. Overall though I was happy with the result.)

2. Consider your options for scratch repair – carefully

If there is one thing worse than a scratch it is a bungled of shoddy repair attempt. You can easily make a scratch far more prominent.

Always consider these options before doing anything:

Option #2.1 – Do nothing.

Most people can live with it; I just don’t understand how. Fellow OCDers may need to consult a suitable psychologist, scream into a pillow or seek solace in an alternative means of distraction to avoid the inevitable twitches and sense of discomfort knowing that you have a scratch that has not been dealt with. Alternatively, you may just determine that the scratch is so unbearable, you can afford option 2.2.

Option #2.2 – Replace the helmet.

Other than wear and tear, a scratch is a solid excuse for buying a lovely new shiny, satin or matt lid. Consider giving away the compromised (scratched) article to a more relaxed family member, friend or colleague. (Please make sure if you are giving away gear that it first correctly – helmets need to fit to protect you properly – or just throw it in the garbage, or display it on a shelf and hope the dust will cover the scratch with time).

Option #2.3 – Tactically place a sticker

Some scratches are in a spot where you can easily cover them with a sticker. Be careful though as sticker adhesives vary. You need to ensure that they are compatible with the composition of the helmet shell.

Manufacturer-supplied stickers that often come in packets with your new helmet should be fine.

Be aware that some stickers may cause head rotation and spinal injury in a slide down the road. For these reasons I am not a fan of aftermarket stickers.

Option #2.4 – Use a permanent marker

There is a wide range of permanent markers or “sharpies” available at office supply stores that may mask the attention-drawing effect of, for example, a white scratch on a black helmet. However, the effect may not last. Think lip-stick vs facelift.

Make sure you clean the helmet and allow any cleaning agents to completely dry. Test on a small area to see if the marker matches the required colour.

Some black inks may appear quite different with a white background. White primer can show through in a scratch on a black or dark-coloured helmet. In this is the case and the pen doesn’t work, simply remove it with a suitable cleaning agent, ensuring not to remove or damage the original paint.

Option #2.5 – Apply touch-up paint

Touch-up paint is one of the most effective and durable options for repairing a helmet scratch. However, care and skill is needed in colour matching; cleaning and preparation of the scratch; priming the scratch (for example spray paint may not adhere to the scratch); and judicious application of paint to avoid runs.

TouchupPaints

A benefit of a touch-up pen is that you often don’t need to apply a primer. However, you may struggle to find a colour match in a touchup-pen. In which case you could try auto spray paint. I suggest spraying a small amount into the spray can lid or a clean plastic container and use a small applicator to dab on the scratch.

Small artist paint brushes, cotton earbuds or a match stick cut to a angle can be very effective for accurate paint application:

3. Test any chemicals or paints you intend using on inconspicuous area

There are many different materials, coatings, graphics and paints used in motorcycle helmet construction and decoration. There is a significant risk associated with applying chemicals, including cleaning agents, solvents, paints, abrasive products and scouring pads and cloths. You should approach using anything to clean your helmet or repair scratches with great caution to avoid problems.

Find a suitable test area that cannot be readily seen such as behind a lining, under the chin or where the visor would cover in normal operation. Use a cotton bud to apply a small amount of any chemical you intend using to check how the surface material reacts. Leave it overnight and review in the morning for evidence of discolouration, bubbling or any other form or undesirable reaction.

4. Clean and prep your scratch

It may not be easy to see, but your helmet will probably be covered in many contaminants such as grease from your hands, wax from cleaning products and particulates from riding.

Clean your helmet with a suitable helmet cleaner.

Then clean out the scratch with a pre-paint wipe or cotton bud dipped in cleaning solution, ensuring that you don’t leave any cotton wool fibres on the scratch which can interfere with paint application.

Avoid using harsh solvents as they may strip paint and graphics, or compromise the integrity of the helmet shell. Consider using less harsh options as far as possible.

5. Colour match your helmet

This is where the art comes into play. Matching colours is notoriously tricky. Buy a couple of touch-up paint options and test dab on a piece of scrap plastic, allow to dry and hold up alongside your helmet in a good light to ensure a match. They have the added benefits of not necessarily requiring a primer or clear coat.

Alternatively, you can use aerosol cans given the range of colour options and spray into a lid or small container before applying.

Some paint shops will mix up to your sample. However, they usually only mix significant minimum quantities and matching results can be variable. The paint may also require a clear coat which adds hassle, cost and complexity. In my view, this is the least appealing option.

Painting

Once you have your paint colour-matched, you are ready for painting. Follow directions for prep and application on any paints used and make sure you:

  • Apply paint in a well-ventilated place free from dust as far as possible;
  • Apply paint at a suitable temperature 20-25C degrees;
  • Do not apply paint or dry under direct sunlight;
  • Have cleaned and dried the scratch;
  • You are working on a stable surface; and
  • You apply paint under good lighting.

Once applied, allow the paint to dry in line with instruction on your touchup or spray can; clean any brushes immediately.

  • Please share on our Facebook page your before-and-after shots and anything that worked well or failed spectacularly!

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Schuberth C4 Pro helmet review

German company Schuberth helmets have been producing helmets for motorsport and riders for more than 90 years with the top-of-the-range C4 Pro now available.

Their quality helmets have only recently come to Australia through MB Motorcycles since our helmet laws were opened up to European standards.

We asked Australian Motorcycle Council executive John Eacott to review his new C4 Pro helmet after a couple of years riding with a Schuberth C4 and previous years with the C3 Pro and the E1.

John’s review of the Schuberth C4 Pro

John Eacott with his new Schuberth C4 Pro helmetJohn Eacott with his new Schuberth C4 Pro helmet

I checked the fit of my regular size 59/60 and ordered online for $A716 plus $56 delivery from European site FC Moto, who I’ve used routinely for many years and always had excellent service plus competitive prices.

(Schuberth is also available in Australia from $1000 for plain colours and $1100 for multi colours.)

Delivery was prompt with Australia Post equaling the time from Germany.

First look at the helmet confirmed my choice as a good one. 

The C4 Pro is a flip front with a built-in sun visor and relatively light at 1695g which is about 30g heavier than the C4.

A reworked lining is very comfortable although it looks as if a family of koalas donated their fur! Schuberth C4 Pro helmet

The C4 and C4 Pro are both sold fully wired with adjustable speakers and microphone for a built-in Bluetooth which is sold separately but installs in seconds into the built-in pockets. 

Two variants of Bluetooth, the upmarket has FM radio (antennae for FM and Bluetooth are built into the shell) and a larger group talk capability, all based on Sena SC1.

For spectacle wearers the lining is now perfectly designed to allow glasses to be worn without difficulty; a small point but indicative of the improvements in this helmet.

Pros:

  • Schuberth build and reputation;
  • Built-in comms wiring, speakers and microphone;
  • Comfort;
  • Quick-release ratchet chinstrap, no double D fiddling to fasten;
  • Light weight;
  • Good ventilation, both chin and top mounted adjustable vents;
  • Pinlock standard fit in the visor, no fogging (almost) guaranteed;
  • Very wide visor and Pinlock giving excellent lateral vision;
  • Easy action sun visor; and
  • Good sound insulation with vents closed.

Cons:

  • The helmet shell shape has changed. Schuberth flip front helmets have always been made for an oval head, but the C4 Pro is now made with an intermediate oval shape.  What was just right for those using the C3 and C4 series may no longer fit with a C4 Pro, which could be an issue. Try before you buy but be aware it may not bed in over time; mine hasn’t.
  • With vents open the external noise can be tiresome.

Should you like the C4 Pro I suggest a spare visor and a spare Pinlock are worth getting at the time of purchase.

If you need one later then waiting for a replacement could be a delay in getting out to ride your bike.

I’m expecting I’ll get as much use out of my new C4 Pro (3000km so far) as I have out of previous Schuberth flip-front helmets and that it will be as comfortable and safe as a quality helmet should be.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

How to clean bugs off visor and motorbike

If you’ve ever been showered with bugs on your ride, you will know how difficult they are to remove from your helmet visor and your motorcycle.

That’s because the wind quickly dries them out and they become very hard and stick like glue to any surface.

Cleaning bugs off your bike

While bugs on a motorcycle are mainly a cosmetic issue, they can interfere with the performance of your headlight or clog up oil coolers and radiators.

We suggest trying to remove most of them from headlights and coolers with water from a service station while out on the road.cleaning bugs off helmet visor and bike

You won’t get them all, but you should remove enough to be able to continue riding.

Leave the rest of the bug removal until you get home as it’s only cosmetic.

We suggest using a special bug remover that you can buy from most motorcycle shops, service stations or auto shops like Supercheap. There is little difference we can detect between specific motorcycle cleaners and car cleaners.

cleaning bugs off helmet visor and bikeMotul insect remover

Visor cleaning

As for your visor, bugs can create substantial vision impairment which is a serious safety issue, so it’s important to remove them while out on the road.

Never try to wipe bugs off your helmet with your glove as you will only smear them and create a mess.

Wiping dried bugs can also create almost invisible scratches which may not appear to be a problem … until you are riding into the sun or at night and all you can see is a “spiders web” of scratches!

I carry a small Specsavers pump spray that I rinsed out and filled with Motul helmet & visor cleaner at $14.90.

The original Motul spray bottle is simply too bulky to carry in my jacket pocket.

Some people say Windex is ok, but it is suitable for glass only. It includes ammonia which is harmful to plastic visors.

You can also use other specific visor products or plain water.

I also carry a small soft rag that came with my Skram riding sunglasses.

If you don’t have a sunglasses or prescription glasses cloth, any soft microfibre cloth will do.

Spray a liberal amount of the solution on the visor and let it sit for about 30 seconds. Don’t rub straight away, but also don’t leave it long enough to dry.

This softens the bugs and loosens them from the surface.

Then gently wipe the bugs away with one side of the cloth. Don’t push too hard. You may have to repeat this process.

When they are mainly gone, give your visor one more spray, then wipe it dry with the other side of the cloth.

Crusty demons

If there is a thick crust of bugs on your visor, call into a service station, rest area or anywhere you can get water and toilet paper or a paper towel.

Soak the toilet paper or hand towel in water and then place it on your visor and let it sit there for about 30 seconds. You can also use a soft cloth such as your hanky or neck sock soaked in water.cleaning bugs off helmet visor and bike

Peel off the wet paper being careful not to rub the surface as some paper towels can be fairly abrasive.

Then apply your cleaning solution as per the instructions above.

cleaning bugs off helmet visor and bikeNever use a servo windscreen squeegee

Never use the windscreen squeegee provided at service stations as they may have been dropped on the ground.

They can have oil, diesel, fuel or small particles of gravel and dirt in them which can smear and scratch your visor.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Choosing The Right Bike Helmet For A Safe Ride

(Contributed post)

When it comes to riding a motorbike, having the right safety gear is of utmost importance.

Riding is far more enjoyable when you have the confidence you are safe. A helmet is the most important part of your bike safety gear as it protects your head and face. In the event of an accident or collision, it can save your life.

Properly certified helmets are designed to give you maximum protection. They are made of durable materials that can withstand impact. When it comes to buying a helmet, you shouldn’t try to save money. After all, how much is your head worth? In this article, we will tell you how to pick the right helmet for a safe ride.

How to choose the right helmet

When buying a helmet, there are few things you need to keep in mind.

1 Get the perfect fit

Choosing an ill-fitted helmet may not only feel uncomfortable to wear but may also compromise your safety. A loose helmet will allow your head to move around inside the helmet on impact. A too-tight helmet will cause fatigue and pain which can lead to a crash.

2 Choose a comfortable helmet

A comfortable fit is one thing, but the helmet should also have a comfortable lining and plenty of ventilation for riding on hot days and to prevent fogging on cold and rainy days. You should always try on a helmet for at least 10 minutes before buying it. This will give you an idea of whether it is right for you or not.

3 Durability

A helmet needs to be durable to withstand impact. Cheap plastic helmets are not as good as fibreglass and carbon fibre helmets. This is why you are advised to buy high-quality helmets that are made of high-quality materials.

4 Straps

Lastly, you should also check the straps before buying a helmet. The straps should be comfortable and secure. Quick-release clasps may be handy but they may not be as secure as a simple Double-D clasp.

You should always wear a helmet when riding a bike. Don’t gamble with your life. instead, you can play sports betting online.

Choosing the right helmet can save your life.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Revan camera may replace mirrors

Future motorcycles may not need mirrors with this Revan helmet-mounted live-feed camera that screens images to a head-up display (HUD).

Some may find this bulky camera and HUD device as a safety feature that eliminates blind spots while others may view it as a dangerous distraction.

The Revan system includes an intercom for VoIP-based group calling and bluetooths to your phone so you can hear GPS instructions, take and make calls and listen to music.

Crowd fundingRevan dashcam HUD bluetooth unit

Revan hopes to take this to market through a Kickstarter crowd-funding campaign which has already more than doubled its $47,689 goal with 32 days still to go.

The South Korean developers claim it will cost $US999 (about $A1600) or $US699 (about $A1130) for early supporters.

However, there is no timeline for when the product will be produced and delivered.

We warn potential supporters of Kickstarter crowd-funding campaigns that they do not issue a refund. Backers will have to contact the campaigner for a refund, put a stop to their payment or cancel their credit card.

How Revan worksRevan dashcam HUD bluetooth unit

The Revan system is the most bulky camera or HUD system we have yet seen.

It features a big battery unit on the back and large camera on top of the helmet, plus speakers inside the helmet all connected by messy wiring.

We have to wonder about the dangerous rotation of your head in a crash and the damage that could cause to your spine.

Under coming European helmet regulations, this unit would have to be tested with helmets to be approved for sale.

The unit has two batteries with 7000 mAh of power that last 12 hours. The battery unit features built-in LED lights for night visibility.

Revan dashcam HUD bluetooth unitBattery unit

Revan’s 1080p HD camera provides a 143° field of vision.Revan dashcam HUD bluetooth unit

It can be operated by a Bluetooth remote control that get on your handlebars.

Revan dashcam HUD bluetooth unitRemote control

Or you can simply nod your head a couple of times to activate the front and rear cameras.Revan dashcam HUD bluetooth unit

It not only shows the live feed on the periphery HUD screen, but also records it like a dashcam.

There is also a phone app that allows you to watch a live feed, set up group calls or adjust the camera settings.

The live feed facility could even replace conventional mirrors in future, although we would feel better about using our mirrors.

Also in the future, they plan to include navigation as well as real-time streaming so your loved ones can sit at home and keep track of your ride!

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Should new helmet regulations cause concern?

Proposed helmet accessories testing regulations have concerned riders that aftermarket externally fitted Bluetooth intercoms and cameras may be banned.

However, one helmet expert says there is no cause for concern!

The proposed changes are part of the upgrade to United Nations Economic Commission for Europe 22.05 standard which has been accepted for use in Australia since 2016.

The new UN ECE 22.06 proposal also seeks to include testing for head rotation in a crash, visor shatterproof durability and the ability of modular helmets to protect you when the chin bar is in place and when it is open.

Members of the UN Working Party will continue discussions on the ECE 22.06 proposals in June 2020 with two years of research results incorporated before it’s finalised.

This would mean the new regulations would not come into effect in Europe until, at the earliest, 2023.

That will be followed by three years of coexistence with ECE 22.05 rules.

Longtime Australian helmet law advocate Wayne Carruthers says that means they would not affect Aussie riders for about five or six more years.

New helmet regulationsLG Action CAM

The controversial change is that helmets should not be modified from original manufacturer specification, which appears to have serious implications for intercoms and action cameras.

“Accessories must be fitted in accordance with the helmet manufacturer’s instructions,” the proposal says.

“Only accessories approved by the Authority shall be used. In case of any other modification or addition of non-approved accessories (helmet cameras, visors, communication devices, etc.) the helmet homologation becomes invalid.”

The Australian Motorcycle Council has long said that ECE 22.05 only affects the helmet at the point of sale and should not impact on the owner’s desire to fit accessories, so long as they do not affect the integrity of the helmets.

For example, you shouldn’t drill holes in the helmet to fit them.

However, the new rules seems to suggest that helmets are not allowed to be modified … ever!

Not so, says Wayne.

“Basically the move means helmet manufacturers selling helmets with their own accessories must test them to ensure the helmet with their accessories fitted meets the standard and have approval numbers for the accessories,” he says.

Wayne points out that the phrase “Only accessories approved by the authority shall be used” means aftermarket accessory manufacturers would have to go through an approval process for use on helmets.

“Since comms and camera technology development is moving so fast by the time 22.06 came into force in Europe let alone Australia we would be likely to see standardised inbuilt mounting cavities in helmets for many makes and models of accessories,” he says.

The Federation of European Motorcyclists’ Associations which is involved in the upgrade process agrees.

Spokesperson Wim Taal says: “The way I read it, this means you will not be allowed to fit accessories that were not tested with the helmet. It is hard to imagine the police checking this.”

Obviously Wim is unfamiliar with Australian police!

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com