| Author | Message | ||
     Dr_greg |
For those of you interested in a dual-sport style helmet...the new Shoei Hornet DS has been discussed a lot on ADVrider.com, but I thought I'd also post my experience here. So anyway, I just got the new Hornet DS last week...and boy do I like it! I was worried about wind noise, but it's as quiet as my Arai Quantum II, and MUCH quieter than the Shoei X11 I tried last year. I have an "Arai" head (I guess) but this Shoei fit just fine (M size); not gonna change any pads or anything. The "peak" is definitely useful (dunno about people who say they can't see it from inside the helmet) and it kept the sun out of my eyes on my southward leg yesterday. It doesn't block the sun like a dirt helmet, but I personally wouldn't want a dirt-style "peak" since I prefer more visibility on the road. The view is excellent with that wide face shield. Head checks reveal a little more also...good for lane changes. I'm in a dry climate, but at 27 degrees F it tended to fog a little; however opening the "chin" vent helped greatly. In moister climates the fogging might be an issue. The GPS said max speed 90.4 mph on the ride, so I guess it works OK up to that speed, anyway. Very little "wind grab" so I think the Shoei engineers did their HW on that one. Anyway, I'm uber-pleased with this thing. Helmets are a very personal item, but just wanted to pass on my experience. YMMV as always.  | ||
| Buellerandy |
http://www.shoei-helmets.com/road/product_launch_h ornetds.aspx Too bad the price couldn't be more friendly...looks great, sounds fantastic! | ||
| Strokizator |
I've had one for about 2 years (I bought it from Japan). Most full face helmets leave me with the impression that I'm looking through a porthole. The Hornet has excellent field of vision. My first one stood up real well in a crash and the light weight meant that I had no neck strain afterwards. It's comfortable enough at 80 MPH but there is some uplift at high speeds. It is susceptible to crosswinds though and long rides under those conditions will tire you out quick. The visor comes in real handy when riding into late afternoon sun (I don't get up early enough to verify it's effectiveness in morning sunlight). | ||
| Chris_socal |
That helmet looks awesome! I have been in need of a new helmet and am going to look at this one. I have a Shoei shaped head too so hopefully it will fit. I like the matte deep gray one, it would match the frame on the bike. Did you buy it from a local store or online? -Chris | ||
| Dr_greg |
I got mine from the local Cycle Gear (I had $460 worth of gift cards for CG; although they had to order it). Better price mail order but CG has a very good return policy so I didn't feel too bad in case I didn't like it. Parts411.com has good prices, from what I hear. | ||
| Supertoon |
A little bit of a hijack, but I bought one of these for local backroad cruising. I really like bugs in my teeth!  |
