HJC Helmets Forum

A few months ago HJC released their new IS (Interior Sunshield) series. Before reviewing an item I like to give it some time on the market to get some feedback.

These new helmets include the IS-33, the IS-Max, and the IS-16. Both the IS-Max and IS-16 are full-face helmets, while the IS-33 is a half helmet.

Besides offering the standard HJC safety and comfort features, this line of helmets offers a mechanism to open and close an interior sunshield. Rather than having to change visors or remove your sunglasses, simply push a button to change between a clear shield and a smoke sun shield, even while riding!

Unfortunately, some riders have found that the sun shield in the IS line is not dark enough to really help, and the mechanics make it a little complicated. I would definitely suggest trying this helmet on before purchasing, definitely during the daytime when you can get a good feel for the sun shield.

Overall, the IS line is moderately priced between $140-$200 depending on the style and color. All of the three helmets in this line are made from a polycarbonate shell and all are DOT approved. In addition, all include the Silver Cool liner, sure to keep you cool even on the warmest of days.

To buy the new HJC IS line check out rockheadbikes.

-Julie

Not green in color, but “green” in environmental awareness…

Mission Motors has unveiled its new electric bike, Mission One, and it is surely something worth talking about. Mission motors claims that the bike gets a top speed of 150mph and 100 foot-pounds of torque between 0 and 6,500 RPM. Talk about powerful.

Powered by a lithium-ion battery, the bike will run for approximately 150 miles, and can charge in just under 2 hours at 240V. The (debatable) best part: Mission One is the quietest bike you’ll ever own. No screaming to your passenger in the back. No roar of the engine.

Environmentally speaking, Mission Motors claims that Mission One doesn’t emit any carbon emissions and has one of the lowest environmental impacts of any on the road. Keep in mind though, that the bike does have to be charged, using electric. Electric is created at coal burning facilities, which don’t exactly top the environmentally friendly list.

While this bike might be super fast, and super silent on the road, some people may have trouble getting past the overly modern design. Created by designer Yves Behar, I tend to think the bike looks like something straight from The Jetsons.

The biggest drawback: Mission One, available in 2010 with a 50-unit limited edition run, will cost $68,995. Not what I would consider affordable, even if I’m not buying gas. At roughly $3.50 per gallon of gas I’d have to “fill up” 20,000 gallons before this bike becomes a savings!

Specs:
Battery Pack: High Energy Lithium-Ion with Integrated Safety
Motor: Liquid-cooled, 3 phase AC Induction
Torque: 100 lb-ft @ Zero RPM
Transmission: Single speed, #525 O-ring chain
Front Brakes: Brembo forged 4 piston calipers.
Rear Brakes: Brembo, 220mm disc; single-piston caliper
Wheels/Tires/Front: Marchesini forged Al 3.5"x17", 120/70Z
Wheels/Tires/Rear: Marchesini forged Al 6.0"x17", 190/55
Top speed: 150mph

If you’re like most motorcycle enthusiasts, you have probably got a good amount of money invested in your motorcycle. Keeping your motorcycle safe, secure, and yours, is very important. With motorcycle thefts occurring every day, it’s important to take some precautions to prevent your bike from being stolen.

Simple common sense can go a long way. Obvious as it may seem, don’t leave your keys in the ignition. Not only does this encourage thefts, but also makes your bike incredibly easy to steal and makes you look silly. Leaving your bike running while stopping at the local convenience store isn’t exactly the smartest idea either. Take the extra 5 seconds to turn the bike off.

Bike locks and alarms are relatively inexpensive ways to ensure your bike doesn’t disappear. A simple bike lock will keep your bike exactly where you left it. A bike alarm will not only immobilize your bike, making it a hard steal, but it should also make enough noise to deafen anyone within a mile radius.

In the event that your motorcycle does get stolen, having a GPS or some other type of tracking system will help to get your bike recovered quickly. LoJack boasts being one of the top players in the stolen vehicle recovery market, and each year releases an article on top motorcycle recoveries due to tracking systems.

Finally, don’t forget about securing your accessories and gear. If you’ve got a fancy alarm system and GPS, then leave your helmet and accessories out for the taking, half the purpose of the alarm system is defeated! You’ve invested in gear, saddle bags, helmets and other accessories, so why not keep them locked as well.

Though motorcycle security can add up, it’s certainly worth having some of these features. It’s much smarter to drop a few hundred dollars to keep your bike safe, rather than lose sleep chasing down the bad guys who stole it.

-Julie

I’m sure many of you have had your bike and quite possibly the same motorcycle insurance for some time now. In today’s economy where everyone is looking to save money, the first place you can start is with your motorcycle insurance. If you haven’t shopped around for quotes from different insurance companies, you're definitely doing yourself a disservice.

Rates for motorcycle insurance will vary greatly from company to company. I just switched over my car insurance and was astonished at how low my rate went with my new company. I never knew what I was missing until I decided to shop around. There are a few things to consider though when shopping for new insurance, especially if you’ve never done so before.

1. Make sure you know who is underwriting your insurance. If you deal with a broker who is searching for the best deal, just make sure you know whether Geico, Dairyland, Allstate or some other company is underwriting you. When it comes to your finances, you should always know who you’re dealing with.

2. Check state and local laws. There may be certain insurance requirements you need for yourself, passengers, and equipment. You also may need a certain amount of coverage or a certain type. Some states don’t require collision and comprehensive insurance or medical coverage if it is covered elsewhere, perhaps by your work. Likewise, you may not need insurance for a passenger if you never plan on having someone ride with you.

3. Search around for discounts. Some insurance companies will offer discounts to riders who are a member of a riding organization or who have passed a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) rider course. Read carefully though, because some companies who offer a MSF discount require that the course be completed within the past few years.

While doing some research today I stumbled upon this article from Hub Pages about the Top 10 Ugliest Motorcycles created. When reading it (and seeing some of the bikes) I just had to laugh. Figured we should end this year on a funny note…

So while this article is nothing more than one person’s opinions, I’m interested to see how our readers feel. Are some of these just downright ugly? Any you disagree with? Maybe you own a Suzuki SV1000 and can attest to its performance on the road. Either way, let us know your thoughts!

Wishing everyone a safe a happy 2009!

-Julie

With the holiday season upon us, and lots of people heading to the roads to visit friends and family, traffic can become a nightmare. Here are a few simple tips to keep you alert and safe when riding bumper-to-bumper.

Watch other drivers’ movements
Most drivers will at least look to their left or right (even if they don’t look in their mirrors) if they’re planning on switching lanes. Watching for these movements can help you anticipate those who are going to change lanes in front of you.

Be aware of your surroundings
Scan your surroundings so that you are aware of what is going on around you. Remember to glance periodically to your right and left, not just in front and behind. And don’t just rely on your mirrors – they can’t always tell you what’s in your blind spot.

Be prepared to stop suddenly
Keep your hands and feet near the brakes so you can use them at a moments notice. When the guy in the truck cuts you off, you’ll be glad that you were prepared.

Avoid the right lane
Passing on the right is generally not a good idea, though sometimes unavoidable. Just watch out for drivers who decide to exit via an off ramp at the last minute. That being said, don’t put yourself between an exit ramp and another vehicle.

Have escape routes prepared
Be prepared for uncertain situations. Have an escape route. If you’re riding in the left hand lane, stay a little to the left of the car in front of you so you can veer off if necessary. Remember that swerving onto someone’s front lawn or a shoulder is better than getting rammed into.

-Julie

Studies say that fatigue accounts for between one fifth and one sixth of all car accidents. While the numbers for motorcycle riders may be slightly lower, rider fatigue is still an important issue. Whether going on long trips, or short rides to and from work, being prepared is especially important when riding a motorcycle.

Here a few tips for keeping you alert and safe while riding:

1. Be sure to get adequate sleep the nights before a multi-day ride. In addition, during the ride you may want to plan extra time to sleep in. Don’t feel rushed to get out the door and back on the road to make your destination in time. If you feel the need to put off your departure for a few hours, do so. The last thing you want is to fall asleep on the bike. This may be one instance where over-sleeping is actually a good thing!

2. Unless you’ve been on multiple long distance rides on your bike, or you ride very often, your body may not be used to riding for great lengths of time. It’s important to plan in time for breaks every hour or so. If you have enough time before the long distance ride, start taking longer, 3 or 4 hour, rides to get your body accustomed to riding long distances. Before the ride you may also want to make any necessary adjustments to your bike to make the ride more comfortable.

3. Be prepared for different weather conditions. The sunny, 98-degree weather you are experiencing at your house, may turn into rain and wind gusts in the next state. If you are riding in extreme heat, make sure to wear sunscreen and drink lots of water. A few hours in the sun can make just about anybody ready for air conditioning and a nap.

4. Make sure that your vision (glasses, windshield, faceshield, etc) is clear and easy for you to see out of. Anything that distorts your vision or stresses your eyes can give you headaches and make you tired. Besides riding tired, who really feels like riding with a pounding headache?

Below are some great tips I found at motorcyclecruiser.com for how to be a good passenger. As a passenger it’s normal to be nervous, but by taking the proper precautions, your ride will be smooth and memorable.

• Make sure you completely trust the person you’re riding with. During the ride, your life is in their hands. If you're not sure, ask questions: How long have you been riding? How long riding this particular bike? Have you ridden with a passenger before?
• Wear proper gear. This includes boots, jeans (or a heavier fabric pant), good-fitting helmet, gloves and a protective jacket.
• Make sure you and your partner are on the same page about what is expected during the ride. Where are you going? How long will you be riding? What does the route consist of?
• Know how to mount the bike, where to place your feet, how to hold on and how to communicate with your partner.
• Relax on the road. It’s important for you to be in tune with the driver and the bike. During turns, keep your body in line with the bike and don’t make any abrupt moves.
• Never put your feet down at stops.
• Don’t make yourself uncomfortable. If you are, tell your partner how you are feeling so that adjustments can be made.

Remember the safety of you and your partner is of utmost importance. Communication is key to having a great, safe ride.

-Julie

Below are some great tips I found at motorcyclecruiser.com for how to ride with a passenger. Even if you are a seasoned rider, there are some tips you may not have thought of before.

• Adjust your bike's rear suspension for the extra load.
• Always make sure your passenger has proper riding gear including boots, jeans (or a heavier fabric pant), good-fitting helmet, gloves and a protective jacket.
• Educate your passenger about the bike. Tell them what parts are hot, where to hold, where to put their feet and also how to mount.
• Before you even get on the bike, tell your passenger how to hold on. Both arms around the waist or on a grab rail?
• Advise your passenger ahead of time not to put their feet down at stops or grab your arms or shoulders while you're riding. Explain that when you corner they need to relax and not lean against the turn, which is the usual impulse.
• Devise a system of communication before you ride away. Maybe it's one tap on the right shoulder to say, "When you get a chance I'd like to stop." Two taps for, "It's urgent."
• Anticipate that your bike will handle differently. It may steer less readily on initial lean, but once in a turn, the addition of weight up high may cause a more abrupt dip. You will also lose some braking efficiency so start stopping sooner.

Safety of both you and your passenger is essential. No matter what, you want to make your passenger feels safe and secure throughout the ride. After all, their life is in your hands.

-Julie