Flip-up motorcycle helmets in the test

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Flip-up motorcycle helmets in the test
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Flip-up motorcycle helmets in the test

Product test flip-up helmets
Motorcycle helmets that can be opened up in comparison

What does the media worker do with successful productions? He repeats it. For the second time within a year you can see the mega-ripper here “Flip-up helmet test”. However, with new actors!

Klaus Herder

03/29/2012

The complaints of some helmet manufacturers are still ringing in the ears of the MOTORRAD accessory uncles: “Our new model will only come in the course of spring, doesn’t the test still have some time?” Or also: “We have something completely new in the pipeline, we can don’t you wait a few more weeks? ”No, we couldn’t. The flip-up helmet test 2011 had to be produced on time for the start of the season, i.e. in February of last year. But in addition to the loud announcements, there have been other, rather quietly presented revisions and innovations in recent months. No other helmet market segment was and is as dynamic as the flip-up helmet scene.

The inclined reader may have already experienced it among friends or acquaintances – or may even be one of those affected: Suddenly, people are wearing flip-up helmets who a few years ago would have sworn they would never voluntarily put such a phone booth on their heads . The reasons for this are understandable. Firstly, the common motorcyclist is getting older and older, making them more comfortable and more tolerant of their own appearance. Second, a flip-up helmet no longer necessarily means that the person wearing it is a BMW driver. Bulbous aquariums for bearded boxer pilots are practically no longer available. Modern flip-up helmets look like conventional full-face helmets and don’t have to be embarrassing to anyone. And so it happens that one in five new helmets sold can tear open the flap – and the trend is rising sharply. Especially long-term and year-round drivers appreciate the practical parts. What distinguishes these customers from other helmet buyers: They have no pronounced brand affinity. What is bought is what is in the personal price range, looks chic and, of course, fits well.

The test field is made up accordingly colorful, the price range of the twelve candidates ranges from under 150 to well over 500 euros. Unfair?

Not really, because the helmets don’t take much of the basic requirements. All are tested according to the current helmet standard ECE-R 22-05. And all but one are equipped with a fold-out sun visor. A removable and washable interior, one-handed operation of the chin part and a practical ratchet fastener that can be adjusted in a flash with every closing process of the current neck thickness are also a matter of course. Equipment details for which the provider of the most expensive test candidate had to jump powerfully over its shadow: Sun visor and something other than a double-D lock were for Shoei so far an impossibility. With the “sporty and economical” Multitec, the Japanese were already at the forefront in the 2011 test – second place was a clear quality assessment – but the rapid development of the flip-up helmet market forced Shoei to offer the Multitec, which is still on offer, with the more touristy to put a sister model aside with the inspired Neotec. With complete success: The new Japanese won the test straight away.

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But until the winner was determined, an extensive test program had to be completed. In addition to the extensive driving tests, the test candidates also had to endure an extensive laboratory program at TuV Rheinland in Cologne. For two years now, MOTORRAD has not been testing there according to the minimum requirements of the ECE standard, but is running a significantly more stringent program. This was already done last year by performing the stripping test with all candidates with the chin section open. The helmet manufacturers, whose models are only ECE-approved as full-face helmets, expressly point out that their helmets can only be used when they are closed, but this is precisely what is rarely heeded in practice. The five models also approved as jet helmets were within the limit of 30 degrees; With some other models, the angles of rotation were significantly larger, but were not included in the evaluation, because as I said: the manufacturers prohibit open-top driving. The extent to which the personal flip-up helmet favorite can be a bit more dangerous can, however, be read from the over 30 degree values.


Flip-up motorcycle helmets in the test


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Not uncool for a long time – flip-up helmets.

Compared to the 2011 test, there was a tightening of the shock absorption test of the chin section: while the helmets hit the edge anvil at a 90-degree angle in the previous year, the probe equipped with sensors now slammed against bare metal at a 45-degree angle . Small but subtle difference: the chin parts no longer had the chance to more or less slide off the horizontally lying anvil (and thus to keep the acting forces small), but were “hit hard on the twelve” in each case. The acceleration values ​​were correspondingly higher, with some helmets a puncture was reported, so metal (head!) Hit metal. The test program did not end there for the mostly badly battered candidates. It was necessary for a potential first aider to open the chin part of the respective helmet. An exam that all candidates passed. With one exception: at the Caberg nothing worked anymore, the chin part remained closed. A second, re-tested helmet also reacted by holding it tight, but with a little effort it could still be opened with a grip on the inside of the chin part. The accident researcher Florian Schueler, who observed the shock absorption test very closely, summed up the chin part issue: “The penetration limit could be raised through suitable construction measures, which leads to lower deceleration values, and thus the chin guard absorption and the protection against injury to the lower jaw in the upper load area can be increased.” Regardless of the individual results, the practice professional Schueler has two general tips ready for flip-up helmet users: “Firstly: only start driving when the chin bar is closed and locked in place. Closing the chin guard while driving has already led to accidents! Second: If, according to the manufacturer, the flip-up helmet can also be used with the chin part open, I strongly recommend not to drive faster than a maximum of 40 km / h! ”So always keep the flap (closed), then it works with the flip-up helmet.

BMW system helmet 6


Flip-up motorcycle helmets in the test


MPS photo studio

BMW system helmet 6.

providers: BMW, Tel. 01 80/5 00 19 72, www.bmw-motorrad.de;
price: 495/530 euros (black / plain colors; decor 580 euros);
Sizes: 48/49 to 64/65;
Weight: 1680 ± 50/1676 grams (manufacturer information / L weighed);
To dye: Black; Matt gray; Silver metallic; Fluoro yellow; two decors;
Helmet shell: GRP;
Closure: Ratchet;
Country of Manufacture: Germany; ECE approval mark: E 13 (Luxembourg);
Replacement visors: clear / tinted, 55/75 euros;
Furnishing: Wind deflector on the chin (mounted) plus extension (included); Double lens visor (like Pinlock); Sun visor; Removable interior; Helmet pouch

plus
Very good fit, head very well integrated (but can initially put pressure on forehead and temples), comfortable lining; good to very good aerodynamics; very good ventilation, easy-to-use slide; perfect sun visor function and operation; Visor absolutely tight, with practical ventilation position and opening tabs on both sides; very easy visor change; good suitability for glasses; low noise level

minus
Slightly difficult to put on and take off due to the very tight fit; Chin part unlocking with gloves a bit fiddly; very “top heavy” when opened; Shock absorption values ​​only average (exception: chin part very good); high price

Conclusion
The bestseller still offers a lot of quality for a lot of money. Especially in terms of practicality. But the air is slowly getting thinner, especially with the shock absorption (side impact) is more today.

MOTORRAD verdict: very good

Caberg Duke


Flip-up motorcycle helmets in the test


MPS photo studio

Caberg Duke.

providers: Germot, Tel. 0 61 03/45 91 00, www.germot.de;
price: 169.90 / 199.90 / 229.90 euros (unpainted / plain colors / neon yellow; decor 239.90 euros);
Sizes: XS to XL;
Weight: 1550 ± 50/1606 gram (manufacturer information / L weighed);
To dye: Black (unpainted); Matt black; Black-and-white-; Grey metallic; Neon yellow; White / decor;
Helmet shell: Polycarbonate;
Closure: Ratchet;
Country of Manufacture: Italy; ECE approval mark: E 3 (Italy);
Replacement visor: clear, 28.80 euros; 
Furnishing: Wind deflector on chin; Pinlock visor (included); Sun visor; Removable interior; Helmet pouch; P / J homologation (full face / jet helmet)

plus
Outstanding shock absorption values; Approval also as jet helmet; Generally good fit (exception: chin part); good visor locking; very easy visor change; attractive prices

minus
Very little space in the chin area; Chin strap may press heavily on the larynx (P / J problem), operation of the chin part is fiddly and stiff; Head ventilation ineffective, chin part ventilation not adjustable; Visor operation impractical (opening tab in the middle), ventilation position too wide; Sun visor operation fiddly, visor lies in the field of vision even in the retracted position; Interior fittings exhale heavily when new and smell very unpleasant; relatively high noise level

Conclusion
The shock absorption values ​​are excellent, but the practicality is not. Economical little chin straps can easily overlook the operating weaknesses – just wear a sample.

MOTORRAD verdict: satisfactory

Hero CT-1200


Flip-up motorcycle helmets in the test


MPS photo studio

Hero CT-1200.

providers: Held, Tel. 0 83 21/6 64 60, www.held.de;
price: 329 euros;
Sizes: XS to XL;
Weight: 1350 ± 50/1460 grams (manufacturer information / L weighed);
colour: Black;
Helmet shell: Carbon;
Closure: Ratchet;
Country of Manufacture: China; ECE approval mark: E 9 (Spain);
Replacement visors: clear / tinted / mirrored, 12.95 / 14.95 / 14.95 euros;
Furnishing: Wind deflector on chin; Pinlock preparation; Sun visor; Removable interior; Helmet pouch

plus
Good shock absorption values; decent aerodynamics, light wearing comfort; Chin part easy to use; effective ventilation on the chin part; very easy visor change; easy sun visor operation; relatively large field of view; good glasses suitability; Visor closes very well; very light weight

minus
Upholstery (especially on the top of the head) a bit thin and uncomfortable, lining slightly scratchy; Fit sufficient at best; Overhead ventilation ineffective; Visor ventilation position too far; Pinlock inner visor not standard; Processing somewhat coarse in parts; very high noise level; When new, the interior exudes a lot and smells unpleasant

Conclusion
The lightweight delivers decent laboratory values ​​and also shows standing qualities in practice. Whether the cheap carbon fiber part is worth the money depends on the fit, which is not everyone’s enthusiasm.

MOTORRAD verdict: good

HJC R-Pha Max


Flip-up motorcycle helmets in the test


MPS photo studio

HJC R-Pha Max.

providers: HJC, Tel. 0 21 31/52 35 60, www.hjc-germany.de;
price: 399.99 euros (black; all others 439.99 euros);
Sizes: XS to XXL;
Weight: 1450/1494 grams (manufacturer information / L weighed);
To dye: Black; Matt black; Silver, anthracite, white metallic; Helmet shell: Aramid / fiberglass;
Closure: Ratchet;
Country of Manufacture: South Korea; ECE test mark: E 1 (Germany);
Replacement visors: clear / tinted / mirrored, 44.95 / 44.95 / 54.95 euros;
Furnishing: Air deflector; Wind deflector on chin plus extension; Pinlock visor (included); Sun visor; Removable interior; Helmet pouch

plus
Excellent fit, pleasant lining, very comfortable; Chin part, visor and sun visor mechanics made very solid, easy to use; very easy visor change; very good suitability for glasses; good aerodynamics; effective and finely regulated ventilation; very large field of view; Visor closes very well, perfect ventilation position; low noise level; light weight

minus
Relatively little space in the chin area; Interior fittings evaporate when new and have an unpleasant smell; Sun visor can come into contact with larger noses; Shock absorption values ​​are loosely in the green area, but still with room for improvement

Conclusion
Landed in the last flip-up helmet test HJC still in the good midfield. Now the Koreans are where they have long since established themselves with the conventional full-face helmets: in the absolute top group.

MOTORRAD verdict: very good

Lazer Monaco


Flip-up motorcycle helmets in the test


MPS photo studio

Lazer Monaco.

providers: CIMA motorcycle clothing, Tel. 0 82 34/90 23 63, www.cima-motorradbeklei dung.de;
price: 349 euros (decor 389 euros);
Sizes: XXS to XXL;
Weight: 1450 ± 50/1542 grams (manufacturer information / L weighed);
To dye: Black; Matt black; Gray; White; White / black / red decor;
Helmet shell: Fiberglass;
Closure: Ratchet;
Country of Manufacture: China; ECE test mark: E 6 (Belgium);
Replacement visors: clear / tinted / mirrored, 39.90 / 39.90 / 49.90 euros (Lumino: 119.90 euros);
Furnishing: Air deflector; Wind deflector on chin; self-tinting visor (Lumino); Pinlock visor (included); Removable interior; Helmet pouch; Bluetooth preparation; P / J homologation (full face / jet helmet)

plus
Decent shock absorption values; Approval also as jet helmet; relatively large field of view; easy change of visor

minus
Unsatisfactory fit, chin section much too short; scratchy lining; Continuous ventilation at the top of the head cannot be regulated, chin ventilation ineffective; poor aerodynamics, strong lift from 130 km / h; internal chin part opening button difficult to reach; Chin part engages with difficulty; Visor does not close properly, ventilation position much too wide; Visor “daytime use only”; only conditionally suitable for glasses; extremely high noise level

Conclusion
Self-tinting Lumino visor instead of sun visor – that may still be a matter of taste. The laboratory values ​​are correct. But for the rest of the (practice), the test drivers only gave damning judgments.

MOTORRAD judgment: sufficient

LS2 FF 370 Easy


Flip-up motorcycle helmets in the test


MPS photo studio

LS2 FF 370 Easy.

providers: LS2 Germany, Tel. 0 44 51/9 60 29 80, www.ls2helmets.com;
price: 149.90 euros;
Sizes: XS to XXL;
Weight: 1500 ± 50/1596 grams (manufacturer information / L weighed);
To dye: Black; Matt black; Titanium;
Helmet shell: Polycarbonate;
Closure: Ratchet;
Country of Manufacture: China; ECE approval mark: E 9 (Spain);
Replacement visors: clear / tinted / mirrored, 25/29/35 euros;
Furnishing: Wind deflector on chin; Pinlock preparation; Sun visor; Removable interior; Helmet pouch; Reflective foils (enclosed)

plus
Satisfactory fit (however strongly dependent on the shape of the head), chin part ventilation works; good shock absorption values; Chin part easy to use; very easy visor change; easy sun visor operation; relatively large field of view; good suitability for glasses; very attractive price

minus
Lining a bit scratchy; Ventilation at the top of the head ineffective, slider very stiff; Visor ventilation position too far; only moderate aerodynamics, relatively heavy; The sun visor only works “digitally” (touches the nose if necessary) and is permanently in the field of vision even in the retracted position

Conclusion
Two things in particular speak in favor of the LS2: its price and the good shock absorption values. When it comes to practicality, you can only try it yourself – if the fit is right, it’s not a bad buy.

MOTORRAD verdict: satisfactory

Nexo Touring III Carbon


Flip-up motorcycle helmets in the test


MPS photo studio

Nexo Touring III Carbon.

providers: Polo, Tel. 0 21 65/8 44 03 00, www.polo-motorrad.de;
price: 399.95 euros;
Sizes: XXS to XXL;
Weight: 1350 ± 50/1454 gram (manufacturer information / L weighed);
colour: Black (carbon fiber);
Helmet shell: Carbon;
Closure: Ratchet;
Country of Manufacture: China; ECE approval mark: E 9 (Spain);
Replacement visors: clear / tinted / mirrored, 19.95 / 24.95 / 24.95 euros;
Furnishing: Wind deflector on chin; Pinlock visor (mounted); Sun visor; Removable interior; Helmet pouch

plus
Good fit (exception: relatively narrow chin section in size M), comfortable lining; good shock absorption values; decent aerodynamics, light wearing comfort; Chin part easy to use; very easy visor change; easy sun visor operation; relatively large
Field of view; good glasses suitability; very light weight

minus
Ventilation at the top of the head ineffective, slider difficult to grasp; Chin part ventilation only minimally felt; slight continuous draft on the eyes; Visor ventilation position too far; extremely high noise level

Conclusion
In the previous year, the polycarbonate sister model only offered average Chinese goods; this time the (loud!) carbon top model does a much better practical job and also convinces in the laboratory tests.

MOTORRAD verdict: good

Nolan N104 n-com


Flip-up motorcycle helmets in the test


MPS photo studio

Nolan N104 n-com.

providers: Nolangroup, Tel. 0 71 59/9 31 60, www.nolangroup.de;
price: from 339.95 euros (special colors / decor 369.95 to 414.95 euros);
Sizes: XXS to XXXL;
Weight: 1640-1760 / 1744 grams (manufacturer information / L weighed);
To dye: Black; Graphite; Silver; Gray; White; Wine red; Matt black, gray; Neon yellow, orange; ten decors;
Helmet shell: Lexan (polycarbonate);
Closure: Ratchet; Country of manufacture: Italy; ECE approval mark: E 3 (Italy);
Replacement visors: clear / tinted / mirrored, 39.95 / 39.95 / 49.50 euros;
Furnishing: Wind deflector on chin; Pinlock visor (mounted); Sun visor; Removable interior; Helmet pouch; Bluetooth preparation (n-com); P / J homologation (full face / jet helmet)

plus
Neat fit, comfortable lining; effective ventilation of the head; Approval also as jet helmet; good aerodynamics; Visor absolutely tight with practical ventilation position; very easy visor change; easy sun visor operation; large field of view; very good suitability for glasses

minus
Chin part ventilation ineffective, slide is practically impossible to operate with gloves; Chin strap may press heavily on the larynx (P / J problem); relatively high noise level; rather high weight; Operation of the chin part is practical for the driver, but impossible for first aiders

Conclusion
A neatly made helmet, which compared to the N90 tested in 2011 could not improve in the practical evaluation. On the other hand, the N104 has better shock absorption values, but it also costs more.

MOTORRAD verdict: good

Schuberth C3


Flip-up motorcycle helmets in the test


MPS photo studio

Schuberth C3.

providers: Schuberth, Tel. 03 91/8 10 60, www.schuberth.com;
price: 499.99 euros (metallic 529.99 euros; decor 599.99 euros);
Sizes: XS to XXXL;
Weight: approx. 1570/1462 gram (manufacturer information / L weighed);
To dye: Black; Matt black; White; Red; Silver, anthracite metallic; six decors;
Helmet shell: Fiberglass;
Closure: Ratchet;
Country of Manufacture: Germany; ECE approval mark: E 13 (Luxembourg);
Replacement visors: of course, 84.90 euros (including Pinlock);
Furnishing: Wind deflector on the chin (mounted) plus extension (included); Pinlock visor (included); Sun visor; Removable interior; Helmet pouch

plus
Very firm fit (however, strongly dependent on the shape of the head), very comfortable lining; excellent aerodynamics; exemplary ventilation; perfect sun visor function and operation; Visor absolutely tight, with practical ventilation position and opening tabs on both sides; very easy visor change; large field of view; very good suitability for glasses; light weight; very low noise level

minus
The chin section is a bit fiddly to open with gloves, only engages with force when closing; Impact absorption values ​​in the test field comparison tend to be below average (exception: chin part very good); Price at the pain limit

Conclusion
The C3 is still an excellent flip-up helmet, but it’s no longer the flip-up helmet reference – you can tell it’s age. More is now possible, especially with shock absorption

MOTORRAD verdict: good

Scorpion Exo-900 Air


Flip-up motorcycle helmets in the test


MPS photo studio

providers: Scorpion, Tel. 08 00/1 83 08 99, www.scorpionsports.eu;
price: 279.90 euros (decor 299.90 to 329.90 euros);
Sizes: XS to XXXL;
Weight: 1850 ± 50/1874 grams (manufacturer information / L weighed);
To dye: Black; Matt black; White; Silver; Matt anthracite, blue; Neon red; three decors;
Helmet shell: Polycarbonate;
Closure: Ratchet;
Country of Manufacture: China; ECE approval mark: E 9 (Spain);
Replacement visors: clear / mirrored, 43.90 / 54.90 euros;
Furnishing: Air deflector; Wind deflector on chin (mounted) plus extension (included); Anti-fog visor; Sun visor; Removable interior; inflatable cheek pads; Open face helmet; Helmet pouch; Bluetooth preparation; P / J homologation (full face / jet helmet)

plus
Neat fit, good comfort; Approval also as jet helmet, easy visor change; good visor locking, opening tabs on both sides; very good suitability for glasses; effective, easy-to-regulate ventilation; large field of view

minus
Very difficult; somewhat annoying whistling noises above 100 km / h; Chin part operation a bit fiddly and only possible with emphasis; unpleasant odor inside when new; Pump function superfluous; Visor ventilation position too far; Sun visor operation is fiddly, “digital” function (may hit your nose)
 
Conclusion
The heavy China helmet is anything but cheap and convinces in the laboratory and in practice with a rock-solid performance. Lush features and decent workmanship round off the matter.

MOTORRAD verdict: good

Shark Evoline Series 3


Flip-up motorcycle helmets in the test


MPS photo studio

Shark Evoline Series 3.

providers: Shark, Tel. 0 41 08/45 80 00, www.shark-helme.com;
price: 389.95 euros (decor 399.95 to 419.95 euros);
Sizes: XS to XL;
Weight: 1715/1756 grams (manufacturer information / L weighed);
To dye: Black; Silver; White; Matt black, silver; Titanium; nine decors;
Helmet shell: Polycarbonate;
Closure: Ratchet; Country of manufacture: Thailand or Portugal; ECE approval mark: E 11 (Great Britain);
Replacement visors: clear / tinted / mirrored, 60/60/60 euros;
Furnishing: Anti-fog visor; Sun visor; Removable interior; Helmet pouch; Reflective foils (enclosed); Bluetooth preparation; P / J homologation (full face / jet helmet)

plus
Very good shock absorption values; easy change of visor; easy sun visor operation; Approval also as open face helmet, good aerodynamics in open face helmet operation; Chin section opening button clearly marked, easy to use; Solid visor mechanism, clean locking, practical ventilation position

minus
Ventilation slide without function, permanent draft in the field of vision; laterally severely restricted field of vision; Chin strap may press heavily on the larynx (P / J problem); Visor difficult to open; Sun visor does not cover enough, even when retracted, always in the field of vision; rather unsuitable for people who wear glasses; heavy; noisy

Conclusion
Great results in the laboratory, but a rather mixed performance in practice – the Thai Frenchman is only partially convincing. The very unusual chin section concept polarizes – you love or hate it.

MOTORRAD verdict: good

Shoei Neotec


Flip-up motorcycle helmets in the test


MPS photo studio

Shoei Neotec.

providers: Shoei, Tel. 02 11/1 75 43 60, www.shoei-europe.com;
price: 539 euros (black and white; all other colors 569 euros);
Sizes: XS to XXL;
Weight: 1615-1650 / 1622 grams (manufacturer information / L weighed);
To dye: Black; White; Matt black; Silver; Wine red; Anthracite metallic;
Helmet shell: AIM (fiberglass / multifiber composite);
Closure: Ratchet;
Country of Manufacture: Japan; ECE test mark: E 6 (Belgium);
Replacement visors: of course, 59.95 euros;
Furnishing: Air deflector (enclosed); Wind deflector on chin; Pinlock visor (included); Sun visor; Removable interior; Helmet pouch

plus
Excellent fit, extremely comfortable; Chin part, visor and sun visor mechanics made very solid, very easy to use; Chin part opening button optimally marked; very easy visor change; good suitability for glasses; excellent aerodynamics, helmet very well balanced; effective and finely regulated ventilation; very large field of view; very low noise level

minus
Impact absorption values ​​below average in comparison (but still in the green area); Weight only mediocre; Visor ventilation position a little too far; Sun visor lever somewhat small; ambitious price

Conclusion
The favorite helmet-shaped sneaker – a helmet could hardly be more crisp and comfortable. Operation, aerodynamics, acoustics, workmanship – everything is great. But please improve: the shock absorption. Very

MOTORRAD verdict: good

Final scoring


Flip-up motorcycle helmets in the test


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The final score.

Something is happening in the flip-up helmet market: With the Shoei Neotec and the HJC R-Pha Max, two new models are clear right away. With the Schuberth C3 and the BMW system helmet 6, however, are still two tried and tested “oldies” at the very front. It is noticeable, however, that the top group – as in the previous year – only delivers average values ​​for the “safety” criterion (which results from the shock absorption values). That doesn’t make them unsafe, but it does show that there is still development potential in this market segment when it comes to “passive safety”.

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