HJC Question

Hey guys, I plan on buying my first bike next summer (Ninja 250R) and am looking into safety equipment.  I'm on a tight budget and HJC seems to be the only affordable helmet for me (CL-15 to be exact).  They are just so much cheaper compared to other brands like Shoei and Aria; what's the difference?  They meet Snell M-2005 and DOT-218 standards; how does that compare to other helmets?  Thanks.

BTW, I'm 18 years old, about 6' 1" and 150 lb.  Any other suggestions about beginner bikes or equipment is greatly appreciated.  

Budget is what it is, but really should be a secondary consideration. First and formost a helmet must fit, and fit properly. This depend a lot on the shape of your head. Don't just look to HJC without actually trying it on with soemone that knows what they are doing in the shop. An ill fitting helmet can cause all sorts of problems, wind buffetting, helmet lift etc. to name a few.

When it comes to safety, any snell and dot approved helmet is going to be reletively safe. Where the cost issue comes into play more is materials, venting, design (aerodynamics), modular nature (customizable) fogging etc...

I think HJC makes pretty good helmets overall. But don't get stuck on it just based on price. If it don't fit... you must acquit...

Personally I have two, I have an Arai Signet which is my primary helmet and it is excellent as it fits my long oval head perfectly. I also have the KBC Repsol replica helmet that fits ok overall, but not as well as the Arai. I use it when Im feelin flashy, or if I'm riding with my wife. My Arai also fits her (conveniently)... Do NOT 'settle" on a helmet just becuase of cost. There are plenty of brands that are fairly cheap. You be well served to never skimp on protective gear... It really can mean life or death... or at least serious injury. Just try to save a bit more money if you have too.

Also, get some good riding boots and leather jacket at least. Basic work boots or hiking boots (while better than tennis shoes) are pretty much worthless in a crash... Just MHO...  

Alright, thanks for the information.  I was planning on looking into an Aria Signet as well and Shoei RF-1000.  I would like a cheaper helmet to work but I agree completely with the safety issue.  I'll be sure to take your suggestions into consideration.  Thanks again.  

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Also, get some good riding boots and leather jacket at least. Basic work boots or hiking boots (while better than tennis shoes) are pretty much worthless in a crash... Just MHO...

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I had an RF-1000.  Great helmet.  Also proven in a crash.  When my head bounced it absorbed a lot of the impact. Turned it into a pretty soft landing.  I didn't get knocked out from it either.  The comfort was awsome and the aero wing really helped with wind shake.  I will deffinitely be buying another one.  Also the visor stayed down at high speeds.  Go for the RF-1000 if you can afford.  I know it is a $400 plus  helmet.  Good luck riding.  

I have an HJC and it sucks........I tried on an RF 1000 and it feels and fits better than anything else I have put on........I plan on putting it on my Christman list  

You need to go try on a few different brands of helmets as they all fit a little differently; kinda like how different brands of shoes fit differently.  For example, I can't wear a HJC because the shape around the forehead area doesn't fit me, but Shoei fits me perfectly.  I had a RF-900, earlier model of the RF-1000, and loved it.

Also, when you first get the helmet, you want it TIGHT.  Even to the point where it hurts a little.  Because once the foam breaks in, it'll loosen up.  If you buy one that's already comfortable, then the foam will break in and it'll become loose on your head, which is not a good thing.  If you look at the racers, you can see how tight it squeezes their cheeks.  

Before anyone buys another helmet I believe they should read the most interest helmet article I've ever seen.  It's available over at Sport Rider's sister publication MotorCyclist.  If I recall correctly the Z1R yielded the best test results and runs under $100.  Any budget can swing that for a  little melon protection.

I have always told new riders looking for a helmet to go somewhere they can try a few different brands on and then pick the one that was most comfortable for their head.  DOT and SNELL approval means absolutely nothing if the helmet is strapped on the back seat or sitting at home when you have an intimate encounter with the asphalt.  

I agree completely with the other post don't settle on 1 brand without trying on several to make sure you get the best fit and best compfort because I can tell you long rides really suck when the helmet hurts your head.  Try KBC and Icon they make good helmets for about the same price as HJC and most importantly don't cut costs on your gear especially not helmets I understand a budget but you may need this gear to save your life and at that point it becomes priceless.  I personaly like my arai but do have an icon that I also use.  Finally I have found that lots of vents are good during the summer.  

Dont settle on a cheap brand for the cost but dotn think you have to spend 400 on a helmet to get fit and prtection either.  My helmet cost $235 and fits my head great. Dont leave home without it. (icon mainframe gloss)