If you're considering a flip-up helmet the
Shoei Multitec is one of the best. It's also one of the most expensive. I paid around $440.00 for mine through a local dealer but I've seen them on line from $399-$495 so shop around.
I've owned the HJC and Nolan flip-ups in the past and while they both cost half as much as the Shoei there is no comparison.
Things I like: The quality of the paint is amazing. I have the anthracite metallic color and it looks like the paint job on a Mercedes. Deep and rich. First rate materials throughout the interior. It's padded firmly but comfortable. The liner is also removable for cleaning. The venting seems about average and so far I've had no fogging issues with the face shield. The face shield stays put in any position when open.
The chin bar is also easy to open and close with one hand while riding even with thick gloves.
The biggest improvement over the cheaper helmets I've tried is how quiet it is and it really is quiet. I couldn't wear the Nolan without earplugs. Shoei claims they've spent the last 2 years developing this helmet to be quieter than the Syncrotec it replaces and it shows. The outer shell has spoilers and bulges to smooth out turbulence and it works. I bought the large and it fits me well.
Things I don't like: The chin strap still uses double D-rings which work great but are soooo old fashioned and slow. Even the cheap Nolan had a quick release ratchet buckle. I bought an aftermarket quick release to handel that. The chin bar is a little close to my chin but it's not a problem. Apart from that it's a fantastic helmet.
Great quality, as quiet as advertised (still not as quiet as a non flip-up but close) and very comfortable. Expensive but you get your monies worth. Highly recommended.
[ This message was edited by: daytonacharlie on 2007-03-06 22:14 ]
