Triumphrat

billybob235 · 02-23-2007

So I was looking at these and they sure look nice- considering getting one, but I have a few questions.

The "Classic" helmet isnt DOT approved and doesn't look like it offers much protection- so is the $200+ pricetag really just an expensive fashion statement? They do look cool.

I was considering getting the "Classic Jet". I like the idea of a face mask, but the ones Davida sells look like "The Gimp" from pulp fiction. Anyone know where to find an alternative? This Guy looks cool, is this something you would have to make yourself?

Any input about the helmets, facemasks, and even goggles would be appreciated!

McQueen · 02-23-2007

Haha! Good ol' Thomas Triton.

I have both, the Classic and the Classic Jet.

I won't open the "[rotection" debate as it's been discussed ad naseum in countless other threads.

The Classic is cool and comfortable. BUT it is LOUD. You'll want to wear earplugs if you don't already.

On the other hand, the Classic Jet is more quiet than my old full face. It's super comfortable. And the quality is A+.

Face protection? I use a bandana in the summer. When the weather tuns cold, I simply wrap my scarf around my face. Done.

bonniesaltrat · 02-23-2007

I've got the Classic Jet. A great lid. Excellent workmanship. I bought a Davida black leather face mask. Have never really used it because it fogs up my glasses. I've used it mostly for hiding around corners and scaring the GF and the kids. Works great for that.

SaltRat

cafethrux · 02-23-2007

billybob,
I ended up buying a classic jet, the Davida mask, and I went with the Baruffaidi Super Competition goggles. Something you should know:
The classic jet helmet is pretty expensive ( I paid 300 + with shipping) and depending on what color you want, you will be waiting for about 2 months for it. Reason is the helmets are hand built and IMO well worth it. Very light,comfortable and quiet. Don't forget you will also need to measure your head for fit purposes. I have a medium that fits very snug where as when I wear my full-face helmet, I wear a large.

About the goggles, try to get ones that have replaceable lens so if you do any night riding you can remove the dark lens.

And about the mask, I don't know about "The Gimp" more like "The Goose" from Mad Max.

Actually, I'm not sure if the goose worn one, I know someone in that movie had one. Very cool. Also the face mask is comfortable as well.

All in all, plan on spending 450 for everything.

Good luck on your choice.

billybob235 · 02-23-2007

do your goggles snug up with your mask, or is there some skin exposed? I ride year-round, so I would want something fairly snug.

I like This one, think it'll go well with my bike. Tough to find it online though.

adamoverdrive · 02-23-2007

I think the Z1R helmets are a pretty cool retro helmet. Especially considering they are DOT approved and no where near as expensive. There are around $70 new. Here a link to some off them.
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McQueen · 02-23-2007

Quote:

On 2007-02-23 15:13, billybob235 wrote:
I like This one, think it'll go well with my bike. Tough to find it online though.

Call Justin at Glory/Jettison and see if he can order that one for you. Good guy. Good shop.

cafethrux · 02-23-2007

Quote:

On 2007-02-23 15:13, billybob235 wrote:
do your goggles snug up with your mask, or is there some skin exposed? I ride year-round, so I would want something fairly snug.

I like This one, think it'll go well with my bike. Tough to find it online though.

There is very little skin exposed, mainly the forehead area.

That's a nice looking helmet, have you tried the classifieds here, there was a guy selling a brand new classic jet blk with a single white stripe for 250.

Topher · 02-23-2007

Hey Billybob, check out the Davida speedster too. It's very similiar to the classic jet but has a smaller shell. I like the classic jet but it looks like a bowling ball once I get it on my head. I've used the speedster almost everyday for a year and a half. Comfortable, quiet, and looks awesome. These helmets are pricey but in my opinion, well worth it. When it's cold I use the davida mask which is also well worth the forty bucks I shelled out for it. Definitely check out Glory sales. Justin, the owner, is the west coast distributor. Oh, the aviator goggles by Jeantet work really well with these helmets. I can fit my sunglasses underneath them too.

Hogtied · 02-24-2007

Quote:

Any input about the helmets, facemasks, and even goggles would be appreciated!

How about a DOT approved Davida clone for $50?

My buddy came to town last weekend so we could do some wrenching on his Bonnie in preparation for the NTBF rally in May.

While he was here we stopped by a local aftermarket m/c shop which is owned by a retired Army buddy of ours. As the three of us were BS'ing, Bill, the shop's owner mentioned that he'd just received a new line of DOT Approved Davida 'look-alike' helmets. He knows that my buddy and I like Brit bikes.

Needless to say, we had to check 'em out.

Frankly I was amazed at the quality of the helmet - for a $50 helmet, the quality is way better than a Davida, but of course it's not as good as a $500 Arai..

Here's what they look like:

Davida Clone

All sizes are available through your local HCI Helmet dealer - or, if you can't find one in your area, contact Bill or Mary Mathews at M&M Leather and Custom Motorcycles in Fayetteville, NC 910.487.5161.

Here's Bill's website.

M&M Leather and Custom Cycle

If you're looking for a Davida, and don't have or want to spend $250 for one, this is a helmet that will give you that "proper" British look for 1/5th the price.