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Helmets 2001
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2007 Wednesday, March 7 Hi
Petra, Dear
Tiina, Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
SK, Thursday, March 22 For SK who is loosing earrings with the use of a helmet: Agree with you, Mama, hoops are the only way to go. I have several that lock into place: the straight or curved part that goes through my earlobe is hinged to the earring & catches in a V-type latch, somewhat like a gate latch. And do take the extra second after you put on your helmet to lay your earrings flat against your ears, facing forward. When you remove your helmet, remember to grasp the helmet in approximately the same manner as when you put it one, slightly pulling out the sides by your ears as you pull the helmet back while bringing your head forward. If this seems ridiculously detailed, I've seen so many bikers - males & females - put on their helmets w/great care then just rip them off when they stop. Can't be any better for the helmet than it is for your head & hair. I have an Arai Profile full-face that has several adjustments for warmth, cooling and anti-fogging, so I've never considered a scarf under my helmet and can't comment on that. Ciao, Jem (note from Mama: yes, with the scarf I don't worry about helmet removal as I know the earrings are secured in place, so it's good that you mentioned it. Good additional notes!) Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
4-eyed bikerchick, Goggles with a foam lined outer edge can be much more comfortable. I've not had much input from eyeglass wearers and goggles . . . most seem to opt for a helmet with a face shield (clear for night and sometimes tinted for day). Mama Tuesday, April 3 For 4-eyes bikerchick who is wondering about glasses, contacts and eye protection: I too am a four eyed biker chick. My solution since I started riding is prescription goggles. I have not been able to wear glasses and feel comfortable on the bike even with a helmet with a flip-up face shield. I wear Wiley RX goggles. I got them online by sending in my eyeglass prescription. They have interchangeable lenses for sunny and night conditions. They are padded well and very comfortable. Could not ride without them. Amy (note from Mama: what a wonderful alternative . . . thank you so much for bringing this to our attention . . . I've got it on my task to explore further as I may wish to go this route as well.) Wednesday, April 4 More for 4-eyes bikerchick about glasses, contacts and eye protection: I myself have a little trouble seeing distances, and quickly found that I would need to wear glasses while riding my Low Rider (I get by without them in my truck). I agree with Amy's choice of prescription goggles. There are several vendors too that you can look at; Panoptx, Wiley RX, and Flying Pig Eyewear. I can vouch personally for Flying Pig Eyewear, who made my prescription goggles. I bought the transition lenses that change to dark for bright sun, and lighter when overcast. They have a nice fit, were lower in cost than others, and have held up well so far ~1 1/2 years of abuse! Many of the bike events will have at least one vendor that makes prescription goggles . . . Michele (note from Mama: more good sources!) Interesting that this subject has come up. I purchased some Panoptx glasses at Daytona Bike week. I could have gotten the lens changed right then and there for $100 but chose not to thinking I would bring them home and have a local provider do it for me and then I could cash in on refunds from my vision insurance provider. I have been unable to find someone local due to the curve of the frames, it takes a special machine. So, Panoptx is doing them for me and will send an invoice to me for insurance rebate. I will be getting only one prescription in the lens' because of that curve as well. These glasses are made with a biker in mind, they have a several designs with ways to prevent wind and sun fatigue. My sister is an O.R. nurse and wears goggles in her work. She has purchased something similar to Stick On Bifocals to use when working on close up work such as cosmetic surgery. She has them to see close up. I am planning on getting a pair for my new sunglasses so that I can see my gauges on my bike better, map reading or whatever. I'm willing to give these the old college try and for $15, what the heck. Michele (another one!) (note from Mama: will wonders never cease!) Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Jimmie, Friday, April 13 For Jimmie who wears bifocals and is considering eye protection options: Wear a full face helmet. Then wear your prescription bifocal sunglasses that you use when you drive your car, read on the beach, watch whatever outdoor event. No new expense. And since your "eyes are very sensitive to wind and light" you ought not consider anything except a well-fitted, ventilated full face helmet anyway. . Jem (note from Mama: my gut agrees with you . . . the only way to really cut all wind from the face area is a full-face . . . the newest ones really have come a long way in design . . . ) Monday, April 16 For Jimmie who wears bifocals and is considering eye protection options: Wear a full face helmet. Then wear your prescription bifocal sunglasses that you use when you drive your car, read on the beach, watch whatever outdoor event. No new expense. And since your "eyes are very sensitive to wind and light" you ought not consider anything except a well-fitted, ventilated full face helmet anyway. Added note: I also wear bifocal sunglasses. I have a 'regular' w/line older pair and a new pair I got last year that is the graduated. I prefer the graduated for riding & driving. Since I wore gas permeable contacts for the first twenty years I rode, I needed a full face helmet. I also find the vision so much improved over goggles. I often wear goggles for skiing and even w/specialty ones, my peripheral vision is diminished. Remember, not all face shields have the same field of vision. Can you stand another plug for Arai? Jem (note from Mama: my gut agrees with you . . . the only way to really cut all wind from the face area is a full-face . . . the newest ones really have come a long way in design . . . ) Wednesday, April 25 More for Jimmie who wears bifocals and is considering eye protection options: Keeping in mind many folks wearing glasses, like me, have to have two pair, one in regular and one for sunglasses. I found an affordable helmet from Caberg that has a built in sun visor feature that lets me ride in the sun and get off the bike without having to change from shades. The Justissimo has a sun visor that rotates downward from the above the forehead like a fighter pilot's sun visor. The other bonus is that with an easier quick flip I can take tunnels without being "blinded" by my sunglasses. The Justissimo model is half the price of other makers at around $230. Shop around for a local dealer so can try it on and compare it to other makers for fit, feel and view from within. In addition to sun protection, the other big consideration is for fog protection. Most helmets do a good job with airflow to eliminate the worst of shield fogging, and some solutions can be wiped onto the face shield to help further. However, Scorpion makes over a dozen styles of full face helmets that all have superior anti-fog protection and are extremely affordable. Anti-fog was the most important factor for my hubby in his helmet choice. bik3rbunny (note from Mama: thanks for sharing specific helmet solutions that you and your hubby are enjoying! ) Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Lisa, Tuesday, May 15 For Lisa who noted Arbonne products for riding skin care: It's funny this was brought up, as I just recently finished a sample of Arbonne's "not-so-basic" skincare regimen. They really do make great products - I absolutely love them! And not only are their products excellent, they are also known for their promise not to test any of their products or the ingredients that go in them on animals. Just thought I'd let you know. : ) Jessica (note from Mama: thanks for sharing!) Hi Mama, Dear
JoJo, Monday, May 21 For JoJo on seeking a half helmet with Snell approval: I posted last September in response to a fogging query that includes information about my comfortable full face Arai helmet. It's amazingly cool for my hot & humid DC area summer riding. Jem (note from Mama: yes, let's point back to your letter to show that full face helmets can be comfortable.) Wednesday, May 30 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear
Anon, Not sure if this helps as previous letters (in Riding Gear: Helmets, Goggles, Hair Smush) are about bangs flattened straight down . . . readers?????? Mama Wednesday, June 20 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear
Kirk, Monday, June 25 From Kawi-Suzie who is new and has a front end wobble happening at higher speeds: WOW! Thanks for the mighty fine advice, I think you might have hit the nail on the head. I do get buffeted by the wind pretty hard, so I do feel as if I have to hang on tighter. I had heard another rider refer to it as being a giant sail, I do have that feeling. Sounds like I have some homework to do the next time I'm out. I also have a "slightly" large helmet, anything smaller seems to 'swish' my brain. I can't seem to find one small enough to fit properly. It wasn't an issue as a passenger, but I do feel it getting tugged at by the wind. Any suggestions? I've tried several places up here to get one to fit. They have even ordered me in some, they were too big. The best fit so far has been the one that I own. As for clothes, plain old Jeans and a leather riding jacket -done up - Not a lot of excess there, just flap at the bottom of my pants (shin area). How do you stop that? I told hubby & mechanic what you answers were, they were impressed and would have never thought of it was their answer. Again, I must say. You're amazing. I think you have solved all my problems in one single bound! I love this site, there's so much experience to draw from. Kawi-Suzie (note from Mama: I'm glad I was able to lend some insights! I wouldn't worry about flapping at the pants ends unless it's bothering you. Some people like to use boot clips . . . you clip one end on the jeans, it goes under your boot heel and then clips to the other side. As to the helmet, yes, it's true, they all fit differently. Since your current helmet is very close to a perfect fit, you might simply want to add a headscarf or sweatband if air is entering at the top of the helmet . . . it will "seal" this area better! The versatile Buff is a choice many love for its versatility.) Monday, July 9 More from Kawi-Suzie who is new and had a front end wobble at higher speeds: Thought I would send you the follow up. I finally got back out again Friday night. Never did get the windshield installed. Thinking I just might not until the fall. Did what you suggested with the "death grip" and lightened up my grip. Worked wonders!! Was riding like a champ, no problem with the speed. The bike still has a vibration going thru it. But it's minimal. Think it's what I've heard called the V-Twin shakes. Last night it all seemed to come together. All the parking lot training, the stopping and starting, cornering paid off. Had just an awesome time out on the bike. That's what riding should be!! Up to last night it's been a lot of work, and not a lot of pay off. Today you can't wipe the grin off my face !!! Perseverance paid off. Even took the hubby's Honda 1300 for a spin around the block. Don't like it as much as my little Vulcan 800 : ) Then I dropped the hubby at home an went out solo for the first time too. What a night! Still working on the helmet. Found one that I liked, that I thought fit as good as it gets. The store wouldn't sell it too me : ) Said it was still to big . . . it was a XS. So were back to square one again. Wish they made kiddie 1/2 helmets : ) Thanks for all the help and encouragement. Love the site, and will continue to check in. Kawi-Suzie (note from Mama: what awesome news all the way around and congrats on sticking with it . . . the payoff is here! There are in fact approved helmets for children, as children do ride; you see them on dirt bikes all the time, but they street ride as passengers in some areas as well. Take a look at this WebBikeWorld helmet page . . . if you scroll down you'll see links for child-sized helmets, i.e. XS, XXS, XXXS. This will get your research started!) Dear VTwin Mama, Dear
Jacquie, Thursday, July 12 For Jacquie who has helmet itch: I am having the same itching problem. It drives me insane. If I ride over a hour or two the itching starts, it becomes so bad that I need to lift up the helmet and scratch, scratch, scratch until I get relief, and then it is only temporary. I ride on the back of my hubby's Harley . . . I am afraid that I may not be able to do any more long trips because of this!! The itching is that bad! Sorry, I have no solutions, but at least I know I am not alone! I was thinking it may be due to sweat . . . Does anyone else out there have this problem?? I have tried different helmets. MB in NY (note from Mama: in doing a bit more research it appears that something silk-lined can help but cotton may be better as it absorbs sweat and oil. Some medical conditions and/or prescription meds can heighten head itch, as well as some hair care products. What may be at the core is a slight allergy to the material in the inner lining that "is made of expanded polystyrene or EPS, the same stuff used in beer coolers, foam coffee cups, and packing material" and then is covered by material, which I couldn't find any info on but may contain fiber components that you're reacting to.) Friday, July 13 More for Jacquie who has helmet itch: I suffered from manic head itch, too. Changed helmets (3/4 to 1/2) which seemed to help some. Maybe more air getting to my head? My hair is very short and I use products to texturize and spike. I started washing my hair before I ride. Since it is so short, it doesn't take but a minute and it is dry in a flash. I also wear a cotton head covering (do-rag, bandana, fancy tie in the back style - whatever as long as it is cotton) and it really seems to help. I still have SOME itch, but nothing like I used to. I do believe sweat has a lot to do with it - - I live in Houston where it is sooo hot and humid, so my head is wet at the end of every ride - - hence the stress on cotton. I still love to stop for water, gas, etc., and rip that helmet off and go to town with the fingernails! I'd love to hear any other suggestions out there. Take care, be safe, Pat (note from Mama: I wonder if anyone has any information about the material they use for the final inner lining; could it be that it uses chemicals for flame retardant or something like that that's interacting with our scalps? I can't seem to find any info! So, I've sent an email to Bell Sports, maker of Bell Helmets; perhaps they can shed some light on this!) Lots of head irritation problems arise from reactions to Sodium Laureth Sulphate, which can be found in most hair care products. It also damages your eyesight. Ever wonder why shampoo makes your eyes burn yet pure soap does not? Same reason toothpaste burns your sensitive mouthparts. That link has warnings and info! Russ in the UK (note from Mama: wow, that was interesting to read about . . . really gives you the willies about they put in routine products . . . I've going to shop with better knowledge now.) Wednesday, July 18 In response to VTwin Mama's email to Bell Helmets about head itch and liner material: I forwarded your
question to our product manager and one of our engineers. Ive heard
back from one of the guys but the other fellow is out of the office and
hasnt gotten back to me yet. Heres what Ive gathered so far. I
should point out we do choose fabrics based on technical features &
physical features such as antimicrobial, antibacterial, quick dry,
wicking, washable, latex free, these type of technical features. Also,
anti-pilling (no balls of lint) soft/plushness feeling, durability, breath
ability/venting, color and pattern are various physical features we look
for. Chris might have more info, but as far as itching? That sounds scalp
specific? I know we try to do latex free when we can but that is for
people who get rashes not itches? Thursday, July 26 More from Bell Helmets about head itch and liner material: To try and answer your question I can tell you that
all our liners are made up of either Polyester, Nylon or a combo of both
and unless allergic in some fashion to these materials you should not see
too much of a problem. However, as you may know, if you have ever worn a
baseball hat for any length of time your head begins to itch after
extended use and I personally believe, yet do not have scientific proof,
that it is a mere issue of compressing the hair follicles. Since the
follicles are not used to this it in turn may cause irritation and
therefore an itchy sensation. Just my thoughts, Hey Petra, I had a great weekend of riding. Just short trips locally, but it was the first time I had been out by myself. I felt ready, even though hubby was a little anxious. But he agreed that if I felt ready, then it was time to give it a spin! I went during an off-peak time so traffic was light and I felt pretty good. I'm more of a slow but steady person, so I'm taking my time and working on improving my skills. Further down the road though, I have to hit the highway !! I'm Ok with the speed, but it's those exit ramps with those 'decreasing radius turns' that concern me :/ I'm thinking of trying that early one Sunday morning with hubby behind me. My next question (you know I ALWAYS have a question !!! ) is one that I know everyone has different opinions on: helmets. Short & sweet, I've been riding with a half-helmet and prescription sunglasses. Well, the wind is causing my eyes to water, so I'm thinking of getting either a 3/4 helmet with a shield or a full face helmet. A friend who rides suggested goggles to fit over my glasses (not sure if I like that look ), but I'm thinking that a 3/4 helmet would provide my noggin with more protection. I've seen some 3/4 helmets with shields for as low as $75, but I'm wondering if that's too cheap? Since my funds are limited, I'm thinking maybe I should wait until next season when I can afford to get a better helmet ?? Or is a $75 3/4 helmet Ok ? Should I be investing more???? Maybe wait & get a full face next year?? Sigh, decisions, decisions. Looking forward to hearing from you, Nancy from Michigan Dear
Nancy, My thought on helmets and your eyes is get that 3/4 helmet with face shield now. Make sure it's DOT approved. You've got to solve the watering eyes thing. This is happening because you don't have a good seal between your check bones and side of the nose. Since I wear contacts when I ride, I look for sunglasses that sit tight on that lower/side area, which does the trick for me. I too normally wear eyeglasses, but don't like the goggle over glasses look/concept. We've had chatter that there are motorcycle-specific shades/goggles with prescription lenses check the 2007 postings on my Ride Gear: Helmets, Googles, Hair Smuch page! As to your upcoming highway time, yes those ramps can feel really tight and nauseating! I still pay strict attention to every detail of my riding when exiting and entering on ramps. The basics are like any curve: start out on the outside of the curved road portion (don't hug the inner curve line) so that you have room to lean through and use the whole lane on the lean amount. In most cases you can quickly scan to get a sense of the tightness of the curve and if there is crap on the road and then make yourself look at least 3/4 of the way through (fixate on that end point). If you want some pre-practice, set up a lazy but spiral curve in that empty parking lot you just need some highly visible markers to see without having to really look even piles of bright orange cheese snack crackers will do the trick! Then start spiraling . . . your hubby can stand at the end point and watch to see if you're really focused on him the whole time or not. I have found in doing some personal training with new riders, that if I also shouted "Look At Me, Look At Me" the whole time, it helped the rider focus on the end point better because you've got both the visual and audible command going! Remember that you keep your head/eyes level, not tucked down or strained up, and both head and eyes turned (but level) on the target. Your husband may want to shout "Whoa Nelly" if you're barreling down on him (ok, that's just a funny!). Many more happy practice miles to you! Mama Thursday, August 2 For Nancy who is pondering correct eye protection: I to have the same problem, prescription glasses and drying eyes. I
have found the neatest 1/2 helmet. It is a Scorpion EXO-100 Series. It has
a flip down visor that is built into the inside of the helmet. You click a
button and it pops down over your eyes. It comes down to the about the end
of your nose. So no more wind in the eyes. I'm not describing it well. It
kinda looks like a jet fighter helmet with that kind of visor. It comes
with a sunscreen one, it is removable so you can change to the clear one.
It also comes in some great colors! Good Day VTwin Mama, Dear
pousan, For Dolores who commented on the wisdom of wearing a helmet: I must agree with Dolores, I wear the full face on freeway rides, and the half, actually 3/4's with a shield around town, at lower speeds. I can lift the shield if I want the wind in my face, and lower it if it starts to sprinkle, or if there are tons of "no-see-ums." I just wish there was some way to vent them better than they do now. When I take either one off, I am soaked with sweat, and major helmet head. But, I guess that's better than being soaked with my own blood! Jane (note from Mama: I've been wearing a half helmet for a long time and carry a full face on long distance rides. Just picked up a 3/4 helmet with faceshield that I can raise and lower. On that sweating issue, yes, vents aren't all created equal. Take a look at my new customized VTwin Mama Buff ... you might find that this product, which can be worn in a number of ways, has the property of wicking, absorbing, and evaporating moisture.) Tuesday, November 13 Dear Petra, P.S. Can't help but notice how many of us girls are opting for the Shadows! I just love mine. I sit in it, not on it. It is well balanced, at any speed, cornering. Other bikes may look fancier, or faster, but I will keep mine as long as I can. Its just perfect. Thanks for your suggestion on the Buff, I love it. Jane Dear
Jane, My second motorcycle was a Shadow and I never had a lick of trouble with that bike. My only problem was that at 5'10" my legs didn't always have the stretch room, even with an engine guard and pegs, I needed on longer distance rides (many states, many days). But since I did mostly day riding, it wasn't a major issue compared to the wonderful handling, balance and little maintenance needed! Mama Wednesday, December 5 Dear Petra, Here's a little project to refresh riding apparel fringe that has some miles on it! It's a new twist on an old theme! Here's how: If your fringe is just about anything other than thin garment leather, you can wet your fringe with either a spray bottle or just by putting it under the faucet. Squeeze out any excess water and sit down with a cup of coffee and begin twisting each fringe strand, one at a time, and all in the same direction. Twist each strand tight, all the way to the end, and give it good pull (hold onto the base of the strand so it doesn't pull off). Yes, it will stretch some, but that will make up for the length you'll be using in the twisting process. Let go of the strand and it should hold the twist. Twisting and pulling tight is the key! After you have twisted all the strands, lay the garment out making sure the strands are straight and not curled up. Let it dry. They will soften pretty quick and will add a richer look to your apparel. A lot of high-end leather apparel has this type of twist and it looks great! For a bit of extra hold, should it be needed, add the smallest amount of Dippity Do hair gel. Usually plain old water will do the trick! If the strands don't hold the twist after they have dried, rewet and rework the strands. Any questions about doing this? Call me at 530-905-0505 or email nanci@shasta.com. Enjoy the best in the New Year, Nanci at Ace High Leathers Dear
Nanci, Thursday, December 6 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear
Lori, |
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