Spring means the days are getting longer and the weather is warming up. Motorcycles that have been on trickle chargers in the garage are coming out into the sunshine and getting ready to hit the road. We know you are too!

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SW-Motech Micro WP Tank Bag

SW-Motech’s most popular product is now available in a waterproof version. This tankbag is made from thermo-welded TPU material backed with shape-preserving EVA elements, and it attaches to the tank with SW-Motech’s PRO Tank Ring System and magnetic guide. The bag’s MOLLE-compatible lid features a magnetic closure. The bag holds 5 liters, the zippers are lockable, and reflective details provide nighttime visibility. It is available for $204. The bike-specific Tank Ring starts at $30, and riders can find the correct ring for their motorcycle by using the bike filter on the SW-Motech website.

Dunlop Roadsmart IV

The Roadsmart IV tires feature a revamped formula with a claimed 23% more mileage for the front tire and 26% more for the rear compared to the previous generation. The new compound has Hi Silica X and Fine Carbon technology for better grip and stopping performance in wet conditions, and a new sidewall construction improves handling. The rear tire features Multi Tread Technology, which allows the center compound to last longer while compounds on the shoulders provide better grip. Dunlop says the tires have 15% lighter steering on turn-in than their predecessor. They have a ZR speed rating and start at $227.95.

HJC RPHA 12

The RPHA 12 is built with HJC’s Premium Integrated Matrix EVO construction, which provides a light weight with a robust structure. The helmet prioritizes aerodynamic performance with an optimized rear spoiler and a shell shape that reduces lift and drag for stability at high speeds. Also reducing drag and noise is the HJ-42 curved faceshield (Pinlock-ready) and two-way pivot ratchet system. The interior is fully removable and washable, and the cheek pads can be changed for a custom fit. A pull tab allows quick removal of the helmet in an emergency. It comes in solid and graphic colors starting at $479.99.

National Cycle Yamaha Ténéré 700 VStream Windscreen

National Cycle’s VStream windscreen for the Yamaha Ténéré 700 offers excellent wind protection in three sizes. The patented V shape and advanced dimensional contours push wind away from the rider’s helmet for a peaceful, quiet ride, and the passenger also receives some wind protection. The screen is made of polycarbonate for better optics, and it has 23 times the impact strength of acrylic. The screen also includes a Quantum hardcoat for scratch resistance. The Sport size (12 inches tall) is available for $134.95, the Sport/Touring size (15.5 inches) is $154.95, and the Touring size (18 inches) is $164.95.

Hair Glove

The Hair Glove prevents knotting and tangling while keeping hair protected from dirt, dust, and other damaging elements, and it provides a sleek and stylish look with its cylindrical design. Snap buttons running the length of the Hair Glove keep hair in place, and the built-in Flex-Hook attaches to an elastic band to prevent it from sliding off even at high speeds. Simply hook it, wrap it, snap it, and go. The American Flag Angel Wings with Gems design ($33.99) pictured here is available in 4-inch and 8-inch (shown) versions, and some designs offer 12-inch sizes and smaller 1.25-inch bands. 

Arai Contour-X

The Contour-X full-face helmet features a new Peripherally Belted Complex Laminate Construction shell that’s thinner and lighter thanks to a new fiber material and resin. The shell flares out 5mm around the opening to make the helmet easier to slide on and off, and the bottom of the shell also features Arai’s Hyper Ridge, which improves strength and shock absorption. The helmet includes a new odor-resistant, brushed-nylon interior that’s removable and washable and features adjustable Facial Contour System cheek pads. It includes seven intakes and six exhausts for airflow. Available in sizes XS-2XL starting at $739.95.

Mitas Enduro Trail XT+ Tires

These adventure and dual-sport tires focus on off-road performance with some on-road capability as well, with a 20% on-road and 80% off-road bias. The tires’ profile and tread pattern excel in aggressive off-road riding while being predictable on-road with consistent wear and comparatively low road noise. These tires are available in a Standard version and a Dakar version with a yellow stripe, a stiffer carcass, and a longer-wearing rubber compound. The XT+ tires are available for both tubeless and tube-type applications and in various sizes starting at $103.95.

Nelson-Rigg Hurricane Waterproof Tail Bag

The new Nelson-Rigg Hurricane Tail Bag comes in adventure (28 liters) or dual-sport (12 liters) sizes and is constructed from heavy-duty UV-treated PVC tarpaulin material with electronically heat-welded seams to make it 100% waterproof and dustproof. The bag is mounted using heavy-duty tension lock buckles and web straps. Two adjustable cross-straps inside hold your gear in place, and the bag includes reflective piping, a rubberized carrying handle, and a MOLLE panel on the lid. The adventure size is priced at $159.95, and the dual-sport size is $139.95.

Spectro Motorcycle Wash & Suspension Cleaner

Now that spring is here, it’s time to roll your motorcycle out of the garage and knock off the accumulated dust. You can get your bike shining like new again with Spectro Performance Oils’ Motorcycle Wash and Suspension Cleaner. The Motorcycle Wash is a spray-on/rinse-off cleaner that tackles the toughest dirt, grease, grime, bug splatter, brake dust, and road film. The Suspension Cleaner is a fast-acting, deep-cleaning degreaser that removes stubborn suspension fluid, grease, dirt, and debris without harming your seals or O-rings. Available at your local dealer or powersports retailer.

Fly Racing Trekker Conceal Helmet

This helmet is constructed with a durable and lightweight polymer shell, and inside is a dual-density EPS liner with one softer layer and one that’s firmer for progressive impact absorption. The clear faceshield comes with an antifog coating and a durable hardcoat for scratch resistance, and the shield lock ensures the shield will remain closed in all conditions. The faceshield can be raised and fully hidden under the visor, and it’s designed to accommodate goggles with straps. The helmet also includes a drop-down sunshield. Available in sizes XS-2XL and four colors for $219.95.

The post 2024 Spring Motorcycle Gear Buyers Guide appeared first on Rider Magazine.

My how time flies! It’s been 30 years since Arai launched its DS (dual-sport) helmet, which had a chinbar like a dirtbike helmet, a clear faceshield, and the round shell Arai is known for. When the first Arai XD arrived in 2004, it had the sun-blocking peak visor that has since been a signature feature of the dual-sport/adventure helmet.

Arai’s XD-4 made its debut in 2012, and it has been a popular choice among ADV riders ever since. With a steadfast adherence to its “glancing off” philosophy, whereby the spherical shape of its helmets helps redirect impact energy, as well as its “priority for protection” prime directive, Arai does not release new helmets often nor does it chase fads. It’s been a long wait, but the XD-5 is finally here.

The XD-5 begins with a Peripherally Belted Complex Laminate Construction (PB-cLc2) fiberglass shell, which has a super-fiber belt along the forehead to reinforce the area above the eyeport. The XD-5’s shell flares out an extra 10mm around the opening to make the helmet easier to slide on and off.

The XD-5 has the latest version of Arai’s variable-axis faceshield system and the Pinlock-ready VAS-A, which maximizes surface area to improve its ability to glance off objects. Above the forehead is a new logo vent that was adapted from the Contour-X and enhances ventilation in a critical area. Also, the XD-5’s chin vent is twice as large as the XD-4’s, bringing much more air to the rider’s face. All vents on the XD-5 are adjustable, but the faceshield no longer has integrated vents.

Related: Arai Contour-X Helmet Review

On the XD-4, removing the peak visor and faceshield required the removal of four plastic screws, two on each side. The XD-5 simplifies the process with a new toolless visor/shield attachment system, which makes it easy to switch between three configurations: adventure (visor on, shield on); off-road (visor on, shield off for use with goggles); and road (visor off, shield on). The peak visor, which is rounder in front and has less overall surface area, can also be adjusted up or down on the fly.

See all of Rider‘s helmet reviews here.

Inside the helmet is a one-piece, multi-density EPS liner and a removable, washable comfort liner with adjustable pads at the cheeks, temples, and rear of the head. The cheek pads, which have an emergency-release design, have a new hook-and-loop fastener piece to facilitate easier installation of headset speakers in the ear pocket. There’s also a wire pocket in the neck roll.

For everyday use, the factors that matter most are comfort, weight, and ease of use. My initial test of the XD-5 was two full days of street and off-road riding. As with other Arai helmets I’ve worn, comfort was good right away with no hot spots. The XD-5 has an intermediate oval interior head shape, which suits my noggin just fine, and the helmet is secured with a tried-and-true double D-ring chin strap.

At 3 lb, 13 ounces for the size Medium I tested, the XD-5 isn’t the lightest ADV helmet on the market, but its average weight didn’t cause any fatigue. What was immediately noticeable was how much more aerodynamic the XD-5 feels thanks to its smaller, reshaped visor peak and new rear spoiler. There is much less buffeting, and the helmet slices through the air more cleanly when looking left or right at speed.

Overall, an already impressive premium ADV helmet has been made even better. The Arai XD-5 is available in XS-XXL in solid colors for $839.95-$859.95 and graphics for $949.95.

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Over the past couple years, German helmet maker Schuberth has completely redesigned its lineup of motorcycle helmets. In the past, we’ve reviewed Schuberth’s modular helmets: the C5 and ADV-style E2. The S3 is a full-face helmet based on the same architecture, its shell manufactured using directly processed fiberglass combined with a special resin that’s compressed in a vacuum at high pressure. Like the C5 and E2, the S3’s shell also has a basalt layer for added strength and impact absorption.

Designed to meet Europe’s latest ECE 22.06 helmet safety standard, the S3 reaches high benchmarks for protection and has a large eyeport for better visibility (the S3 is also DOT approved). Inside the shell is a dual-density EPS liner, an intermediate-oval head shape, and a new comfort liner with customizable pads. Optional “sport” and “comfort” cheek pads and replaceable rear pads can make the interior more round or more oval. The S3 also has the Schuberth Rescue System, which allows first responders to extract the cheek pads to facilitate removal of the helmet.

Other features include an optically correct faceshield with a Pinlock anti-fog insert, a repositioned chinstrap to reduce pressure near the throat, an anti-roll-off system, a double chin air intake with an exchangeable filter, a new rear spoiler with an air extractor, and a new V-lock sunshield mechanism.

The S3 is also prewired for the optional SC2 Bluetooth 5.0 communicator (sold separately), which is made by Sena and based on the 50S with voice activation and mesh networking. HD speakers and an antenna are built into the helmet. A remote-control unit clicks into the left side of the helmet, and the SC2 main unit with a rechargeable battery plugs into the back of the helmet.

See all of Rider‘s helmet reviews here.

Fit and comfort are excellent, and weight is reasonable: The size Medium we tested is 3 lb, 14 ounces. While testing naked bikes for a comparison test, the S3’s slippery shape moved through the air with no buffeting, and during head checks to the side there was no unpleasant noise or wind pressure. Thanks to the aerodynamic shell and well-padded neck roll, the inside of the helmet remains reasonably quiet. The only issue I had with the S3, as well as the C5 and E2, is that it’s easy to inadvertently knock the vent on the chinbar closed when putting on the helmet or opening/closing the faceshield.

The Schuberth S3 comes in Concrete Gray (shown), Matte Black, or Glossy White for $599, as well as the Storm graphic in three colorways (blue, silver, or orange) for $699. Available sizes are XS-3XL.

The post Schuberth S3 Motorcycle Helmet Review | Gear appeared first on Rider Magazine.

As a motorcycle enthusiast, I’ve had the opportunity to test many helmets over the years, but the Forcite MK1S smart helmet stands out. After using it for a month, I’m thrilled to share my review.  

Forcite Helmet Systems, founded by Alfred Boyadgis, is an Australia-based technology company that has developed the world’s first certified smart motorcycle helmet. The company’s flagship product – the Forcite MK1S smart helmet – enhances the riding experience by integrating sensor technology and Forcite Command software. The helmet features a 4K camera, AI-powered voice control, augmented-reality navigation, and high-quality audio capabilities. 

Comfort and Design | Forcite MK1S Smart Helmet 

I found the Forcite MK1S offers a good level of comfort, thanks to its very light design (3.3-3.7 lb, depending on size), well-padded 3D-foam interior, and six vents for managing airflow. The helmet fits snugly without feeling too tight or restrictive, which is crucial for long rides. There are some positioning issues with the cheek pads that could be more refined in their shape and support while riding. The MK1S runs slightly small, so you might want to consider going up a size when purchasing.  

The helmet exhibits good craftsmanship. The shell is made of T-400 carbon fiber that balances durability and weight, and its aerodynamic shape also reduces wind resistance. However, interior noise is louder than what one would expect from a premium helmet. The MK1S is available in glossy or matte scratch-resistant finishes, which helps it maintain its aesthetic appeal even after extensive use. 

The faceshield has a quick-release design, locks closed for high-speed use, and is prepared for the Pinlock MaxVision 120 anti-fog insert. 

Features and Control Systems | Forcite MK1S Smart Helmet 

This helmet is packed with features, and the controls are intuitive and accessible, even with gloves on. However, the AI-powered voice command feature could use some improvement as I occasionally struggled to understand commands in noisy environments. Understand that for this feature to work, the Forcite smartphone app and Bluetooth controller pod (included with a mounting kit) must be used. The app is easy to load up and navigate, but it is not as sophisticated as some other navigation systems.    

Using the Bluetooth controller has been an interesting experience. It’s easy to use even with gloves on, but I don’t like having to look down at the pod to change volume, advance a song, or accept an incoming call.  

Battery Life and Charging | Forcite MK1S Smart Helmet 

The helmet’s battery life is decent, lasting around 4-5 hours on a single charge with moderate use. Charging is via a USB-C port, and it takes around 3-4 hours for a full charge. One thing I noticed is that the charging cord for the helmet is the only one that works properly. I tried a few other cords I had laying around, and they were inconsistent with charging time, if they worked at all.  

Video Quality | Forcite MK1S Smart Helmet 

As far as the 4K video camera goes, I wouldn’t rely on it to be a YouTube Vlogger. The camera is good, but my GoPro and Insta360 are much better. Image stabilization is a little shaky, but it does a good job of providing an account of your riding and the surrounding area, so in the sense of having a safety device along with you for your ride, it’s a good solution, since all the equipment you need is build right into the helmet.   

Audio Quality | Forcite MK1S Smart Helmet 

The built-in speakers offer excellent audio quality, whether for calls, music, or GPS directions. Even at high speeds, the sound remains clear and distortion-free. I installed Forcite’s speaker relocation kit to the helmet, which made a big difference.  

Navigation Consistency and Alerts | Forcite MK1S Smart Helmet 

The augmented-reality navigation is one of the helmet’s standout features, projecting directional cues just below the visor’s bottom edge for turning, which is a game-changer for route planning, traffic disruptions like construction, and even police presence. The system provided accurate directions, but in some of the areas I rode in, it will announce “rerouting” an annoying number of times. Additionally, the alerts for hazard warnings were sometimes delayed, which can be a potential safety concern.   

Final Impression | Forcite MK1S Smart Helmet 

For the most part, the Forcite MK1S is a great looking, lightweight helmet with built-in audio and visual capabilities. Yet it still feels like a working prototype – successful yet still in need of refinement to meet expectations for a premium helmet.   

If I could do it over again, would I still buy this helmet or wait for the next generation? That’s easy: Yes! I’m a tech fan and an early adopter. For the very same reason I still have an old Skully helmet in my garage, I would buy upgrades and new models of Forcite helmets. For now, I’ll enjoy using it and joining discussion on their website and social media pages, trying to help bring this helmet to the point of realizing the brand’s goal of reshaping the future of motorcycling. Isn’t that what our community is about anyway? 

The Forcite M1KS retails for $1,099, and it is available on the Forcite website. 

See all of Rider‘s helmet reviews here.

The post Forcite MK1S Smart Helmet Review | Gear appeared first on Rider Magazine.

When I slide on a full-face helmet, there’s a kind of click. My focus instantly sharpens, and my shoulders relax. The lighter and more comfortable the helmet, the deeper the effect. Add in modular helmet action so I can chat, hydrate, and snack on the fly, and I can stay in the zone all day.

That’s why I was so excited to try AGV’s new Tourmodular on a recent midsummer multistate tour through the Northeast.

It’s a handsome lid, but what’s more important to me is performance, beginning with safety. AGV claims this modular helmet is just as safe as a full-face helmet, and testing backs up this claim. It surpassed the latest market-driving ECE 22.06 safety standard. Since it’s a modular, it had to undergo additional impact and torsion testing both in its open and closed positions, and the Tourmodular passed these as well.

Comfort is my next priority. This wind-tunnel-engineered helmet is compact and lightweight thanks to a shell comprising carbon, aramid fiber, and fiberglass. My Medium weighs 3.7 lb and fit true-to-size out of the box.

The removable/washable interior is super comfy, with Ritmo, a cooling, breathable material, covering the cheek pads and soft Shalimar lining the interior. As a full-time prescription glasses wearer, I also appreciate the Tourmodular’s recessed channels that accommodate eyewear. A lined chin strap closes via a micro ratchet, and an integrated sunshield is deployed via a convenient toggle.

See all of Rider‘s helmet reviews here.

All the mechanical functions are robust, starting with crisp, five-stop faceshield action. At 4mm, the faceshield is twice as thick as most lenses and considered part of the shell’s architecture. The optically correct faceshield provides a massive 190×85-degree field of vision, and its compact latches are such a cinch to operate that you’ll be popping the faceshield on and off just for cleaning.

The modular feature is actuated via an easy-to-operate latch under the chin: Just pull and flip. It’s perfect for me since I prefer to keep my helmet on during short stops.

Underway, the helmet was quiet whether I was riding a touring rig or a naked bike. Its light weight kept me from feeling fatigued on long riding days. During severe extended downpours, zero water leaked inside even with the faceshield in the locked “micro-opening” position. An included Max Pinlock 120 insert kept fogging at bay.

My first two weeks in the helmet were spent riding behind a touring windshield in high humidity, so all avenues of ventilation were investigated. There are two vents on the chin bar, but the real ticket was the large wraparound vent on top that ushered in plenty of cooling air. 

In 30-plus years of testing motorcycle gear, I haven’t enjoyed a helmet more than this one. The Tourmodular modular helmet is positioned as a more economic version of AGV’s all-carbon Sportmodular. There are nine colorways and 30 fit combos between three shell sizes, six interior sizes, and five thicknesses of interchangeable cheek pads. Pricing starts at $659.95.

The post AGV Tourmodular Modular Helmet | Gear Review appeared first on Rider Magazine.

Knowing I’d be riding more than 1,000 miles during the dog days of summer – when Sirius, the “Dog Star,” rises with the sun, which ancient Greeks believed brought heat, drought, bad storms, bad luck, and mad dogs – I opted to wear my Schuberth E2 modular helmet for the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+ press launch in Idaho and my two-day ride home to California. I wanted comfort, ventilation, minimal wind noise, and the convenience of a flip-up chinbar. The E2 delivered.

Related: 2024 Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+ Review | Road Test

We wrote a Schuberth C5 modular helmet and SC2 Communicator review for our September 2022 issue, and the E2 is largely the same helmet but with more ventilation and an ADV-style peak visor. The C5/E2 have an intermediate-oval head shape with more interior space than their C4/E1 predecessors. To improve comfort, the chinstrap, which fastens with a quick-release micro-lock ratcheting mechanism, was moved forward, and the chinbar’s new pinless locking mechanism prevents the helmet from becoming tighter when the chinbar is closed.

The E2’s shell is made using Schuberth’s Direct Fiber Processing method, where glass fiber is combined with a special resin and compressed in a vacuum at high pressure, and the shell is reinforced with a basalt layer for added strength. The size medium tested here weighs 4 lb, 6 oz.

Inside the E2 is a dual-density EPS liner, a drop-down sunshield, and a removable/washable Comfort Fit interior with CoolMax antibacterial fabric and customizable pads. The helmet is prewired for the SC2 communication system ($349, sold separately), with HD speakers and antennas for FM, Bluetooth, and Mesh already installed.

See all of Rider‘s helmet reviews here.

Comfort for the E2 was good right out of the box, and it improved as the helmet molded to my noggin. Ventilation is excellent, with two intake vents on the chinbar, a large central intake on the crown, exhaust vents on the rear spoiler, and air-flow channels built into the EPS liner. One gripe is that the chinbar intake vent just below the faceshield pushes open and closed, and I often bumped it closed accidentally when opening the faceshield.

As the faceshield snaps shut, two small tabs near the shield’s base plate lock it closed. When closing the shield from one side or the other, occasionally one or both tabs would not engage to fully close the faceshield. However, it locks closed easily if I spread my hand apart and push the shield closed from both sides with my thumb and forefinger. Schuberth’s patented memory function keeps the faceshield open at a desired level after opening and closing the chinbar, and a Pinlock anti-fog insert is included.  Motorcycle windscreens can introduce turbulence, but the E2 slices through the air cleanly, and the adjustable peak visor provides shade without getting caught in the wind. When I stood up on the Tracer’s pegs to stretch my legs, I was enveloped in smooth, quiet air, allowing me to simply enjoy the thrum of the engine.

The Schuberth E2 sells for $799 in one of three solid colors and $899 for the E2 Defender graphic or one of four Explorer graphics.

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Established in 2007, Spanish manufacturer LS2 produces a full line of motorcycle helmets, including full-face, modular, open-face, off-road, and youth. The LS2 Thunder Carbon is the brand’s top-of-the-line motorcycle racing helmet, designed with input from professional riders in World Superbike, Moto 2, Moto 3, and other series and certified by DOT, ECE, and FIM.  

The LS2 Thunder Carbon helmet features a Kevlar-reinforced carbon fiber shell, a multidensity EPS liner, emergency-release cheek pads, and a double D-ring chin strap. The interior has an intermediate-oval shape with a snug and comfortable fit, making it ideal for full days on the track, on the highway, or in the canyons. Its aerodynamic shape slices through the wind, its rear spoiler enhances stability, and its light weight (3.25 lb for a Medium) reduces fatigue. 

The Thunder Carbon motorcycle racing helmet comes with both clear and dark smoke faceshields, as well as an extra set of black visor fasteners to match the dark smoke visor. Slick and thoughtful! The eyeport is above the normal line of sight, which improves visibility when tucked in. A Pinlock anti-fog insert and a breath guard are also included. 

Six intake vents, three exhaust vents, and channels in the EPS lining provide ventilation. The intake vents have harmonizers to streamline the airflow through the helmet for maximum cooling, and the faceshield has an air crack position to allow in additional air. Testing this helmet on hot days in Texas was a pleasant experience, and I remained cool even at stop lights and in traffic. 

The Thunder Carbon has no cutouts for Bluetooth speakers inside the liner, which is understandable for an aggressive-style helmet like this one. However, I was able to install a Sena 50 Series Mesh system easily. 

Overall, the LS2 Thunder Carbon is an attractive, comfortable, high-quality helmet with excellent safety features. It also comes with a hydration tube, a helmet sleeve, a protective bag, and an inflatable resting pillow for off-bike storage. 

See all of Rider‘s helmet reviews here.

Whether you’re a professional motorcycle racer or an everyday road warrior, the LS2 Thunder Carbon helmet offers a perfect blend of style, performance, and protection. It’s available in sizes XS-2XL in solid and graphics starting at $699.98. 

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The ScorpionEXO XT9000 is the company’s newest entry into the midline adventure motorcycle helmet class, boasting a 3K carbon fiber shell and inflatable cheek pads, among other notable features. 

The helmet’s interior feels simultaneously rugged and breathable, with a soft KwickWick III moisture-wicking liner and removable crown, cheek pads, and neck roll, all of which are washable. Its novel “Airfit” cheek pads can be inflated via a large red air pump button and deflated via a release valve, all located on the interior of the chinbar. The result is a truly individual fit that is quick and easy to adjust, even with gloves on. A removable neoprene skirt is also included to effectively block wind from blowing up into the chin area for more comfortable cold weather riding and reduced wind noise.  

See all of Rider‘s helmet reviews here. 

Built into the shell are 50mm speaker pockets if you want to install a Bluetooth comm system. Two thin bright red “emergency” straps on the underside of the neck roll release the cheek pads when pulled, reducing neck strain during helmet removal in the event of a crash. 

The XT9000’s exterior is handsomely styled in the ADV tradition, with a TCT-Ultra 3K carbon fiber shell wrapped around a multilayered, multidensity EPS liner. The clearcoat-over-carbon finish on our test model was glossy and smooth, complementing the excellent overall fit and finish. Two Maxvision faceshields are included (clear and dark tint), both of which are shatter-resistant, anti-fog and anti-scratch coated, and 95% UVA+B blocking. For off-road riding, the shield is designed to accommodate most goggles while in the “up” position, negating the need to remove the shield entirely. Pinlock anti-fog film is included also. The shield sealed well when closed, with no air or water leakage detected. The helmet’s peak is easily removable via three thumbscrews for a street-style look. 

Out on the road, the XT9000 was delightfully functional, starting with its superb ventilation. Up front, the peak directs air into two intake vents on the top of the helmet, each of which has a beefy closed/open switch which is easily actuated with gloved hands. The chinbar has four small open ports and one larger central main port which can be opened or closed as required. On the inside of the chinbar, there is another switch to open or close the chin vents, which aim toward the inside of the face shield to combat fogging. Internal air is dispelled through two wide spoilers on the rear of the helmet.  

Another useful feature of this helmet is its wide, airy field of vision (Scorpion claims a 190-degree horizontal and 100-degree vertical field of vision). Finally, its light weight (only 3.1 lb for our size Large test model) is less tiring on long rides than heavier comparable lids.  

The ScorpionEXO XT9000 adventure motorcycle helmet meets both DOT FMVSS 218 and ECE 22.06 certifications. Sizes are available from XS to 3XL, and MSRP starts at $499.95.  

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Founded in 1972 by brothers in a small garage in India, SMK Helmets has grown over the past 51 years to become one of the world’s largest motorcycle helmet manufacturers. The brand is relatively new to the U.S. market, but it offers a full line of helmets, including full-face, modular, open-face, and off-road models.

See all of Rider‘s helmet reviews here.

In the full-face segment, SMK’s top-of-the-line model is the Titan Carbon. (A non-carbon version of the Titan is also available.) For weight reduction and impact resistance, the Titan Carbon outer shell material comprises carbon fiber composite and energy impact resistance thermoplastic (EIRT). An inner liner consisting of multiple densities of expanded polystyrene provides additional impact absorption, and the helmet is both ECE and DOT certified.

SMK says its helmets are designed and wind-tunnel tested to minimize drag, lift, and wind noise. The Titan Carbon holds up in the first two areas better than the last. On a Yamaha MT-09 SP naked bike on the interstate at 80-plus mph, I didn’t feel much buffeting with the 3.7-lb size XL I tested, but there was noticeable wind noise, which increased slightly with the top vent open, but earplugs mitigate that.

In terms of ventilation, the Titan Carbon has a chin vent, a top vent, and four exhausts. Both vents are easy to open and close, but a middling amount of air flows through the helmet with them both open. The interior is more comfortable on a warm day after removing the chin curtain and breath deflector.

The drop-down sunshield comes down far enough for good visibility while allowing a small gap to make it easy to read instruments on the dash, but the tinting is too light to reduce sun glare much. The faceshield locks and unlocks easily with a pushbutton above the chin vent, and the shield can be removed with a pair of quick-release levers that are simple to operate. A Pinlock anti-fog insert is included.

The Titan Carbon has a hypoallergenic liner with moisture-controlled fabric that keeps my head relatively cool and dry, even in the low 90s. The liner is removable and washable, and overall, the helmet fits quite comfortably, with no pressure spots on my intermediate-oval head. The helmet is secured with an adjustable quick-release ratcheting chinstrap.

Overall, despite wanting more ventilation and a darker sunshield, the SMK Titan Carbon is a well-made, feature-rich motorcycle helmet at an affordable price. It comes in solid (no color) for $279.99 and the Nero graphic in red or blue for $289.99. Available sizes are XS-2XL.

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RPHA stands for Revolutionary Performance Helmet Advanced, and the RPHA series is HJC’s top-shelf models. The most recent addition to the line is the RPHA 91 modular motorcycle helmet with a Premium Integrated Matrix EVO shell made from a blend of materials that includes carbon-aramid, carbon fiber, glass fiber, organic nonwoven fabric, and linen fiber, all of which contribute to enhanced shock resistance and light weight. A size Medium weighs 3.8 lb.

See all of Rider‘s helmet reviews here.

The RPHA 91 includes several thoughtful features, such as large, paddle-like air vents. They aren’t as hidden as the vents on other helmets; however, since operating the vents requires simply sliding or rocking a large paddle, they’re much easier to use than the smaller mechanisms found on many helmets.

Reaching up and sliding the vent on the top of the head or rocking the chin intake is effortless even with gloved hands, and there’s no searching and feeling to find them. The temple vents are operated with a slide and are much smaller, but I almost always leave them open.

Another nice feature on the RPHA 91 is the drop-down sunshield. Plenty of modular helmets have sunshields, but some of them don’t come down far enough. The RPHA 91 solves that problem with an adjustable sunshield. Removing the plate on the left side of the helmet reveals a three-setting switch. The switch allows you to set how far down the sunshield drops, and if it’s set to the lowest level, the sunshield also slides away from the face so you don’t have to worry about it bonking your nose on the way down. Dropping the sunshield to the middle position suited me the best.

HJC also made the flip-up chinbar more convenient on the RPHA 91. Although the chinbar doesn’t flip completely around to the back of the helmet like on the HJC i100 (see the HJC i100 review here), it can still be worn in the flipped-up position while riding, although doing so inevitably sacrifices some safety as it leaves your face vulnerable. HJC accomplished this with two design elements. The first is that, with the chinbar flipped up, there is minimal space between the chinbar and the top of the helmet, meaning wind won’t get in between and pull the helmet up. The chinbar also locks in the opened position so it won’t move or drop down during a ride. The lock mechanism is a little tricky to work with gloved hands but not impossible. I wouldn’t try to lock or unlock the chinbar while actively riding, but it’s easy enough to do if I have a few seconds at a stop light.

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Other useful features include a neck roll that helps reduce wind noise, speaker pockets and channels to run wires for a comms system, and a Pinlock-ready faceshield (a Pinlock anti-fog insert is included). The RPHA 91 comes in XS-2XL in Black, White, Matte Black, Grey, Semi Flat Titanium, Semi Flat Anthracite, Semi Flat Metallic Blue, and three graphic colors starting at $549.99.

The post HJC RPHA 91 Modular Motorcycle Helmet | Gear Review appeared first on Rider Magazine.