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Quiet helmet

senpai71

senpai71

Professional troublemaker
Joined
Feb 23, 2016
Location
San Francisco
Moto(s)
2015 Kawasaki Versys 1000LT, 2000 Triumph Sprint ST, 2008 BMW K1200GT
Name
Rory
Does anyone have any recommendations about quiet helmets?

My daily-use Shoei is about 5 years old, and whilst not 'damaged', I think it's time for a replacement.

I've been using a Windjammer (http://www.amazon.com/WINDJAMMER-REDUCES-Helmets-original-copied/dp/B003FHLNVK) for a couple of years, and I really like it (this isn't spam, honest - it's a product I use and like) combined with a scarf, but the helmet is still pretty loud. And when I try to plug the neck hole with the scarf in an attempt to reduce noise further, it mists up too quickly.

I used to use earplugs (I've used both cheap 'n' cheerful and also expensive fitted ones), but as I'm aging, some issues related to messing with my balance when blocking my ears mean that what I really need is just a quiet helmet.

I've heard good things about modular helmets (presumably because they can have tighter neck-holes than regular helmets), particularly the Schuberth C3 Pro, but before I pull the trigger on a $600 helmet, I'd like a second opinion.

I've also read this RideApart article (https://rideapart.com/articles/5-quietest-motorcycle-helmets), for what that's worth. Anyone got experience with the Shoei RF1200 or the HJC RPHA Max?

Finally, something with LOTS of ventilation would be great, since I overheat easily and everything tends to get misty, especially in cold weather. Obviously ventilation can be the enemy of noise reduction, but any opinions would be appreciated.

Thanks!
 
I just saw a bell helmet reviewed really favorably for windnoise in City Bike. Trying to remember the name.
 
Yeah, I started wearing my gf's shoei after mine got worn out. I was blown away at how loud it is. It's unbearable without earplugs. Next helmet will not be a shoei.
 
Schuberth makes the quietest helmets. They are also the only manufacturer who quotes decibel level for each model. Also, full face helmets are often quieter than modular since less seams and holes make for smoother quieter airflow. If you cant ride with plugs, I think your only hope might be a stock exhaust, a giant touring windscreen, and a schuberth.
 
i have a rf1200-pretty quiet and flows air well.i also have a nexx xr2 which is very quiet,but it's best for bikes with clip-ons as far as air flow goes.
 
Sucks about the ear thing. How old is "old"? you should get that checked if you haven't already.

I have Tinnitus with vertigo but plugs have a positive impact. Earbuds even more so.

My Aria Profile's the quietest helmet I've owned but I still need the added protection.

Lots of google reviews out there BTW :dunno
 
I believe Schuberth are the quietest on the market. I've also heard the Shoei GT-Air is exceptionally quiet. I ride with ear plugs for any ride of extended time or any ride on the freeway. Helps block all wind noise while still being able to hear cars around you.
 
I couldn't ride a mile without earplugs. Makes choice of helmet less important.
Too bad about the balance issues.
 
duck_rider said:
I believe Schuberth are the quietest on the market.
Click to expand...

This. I don't own one, but that's the first question I ask when I talk to someone with a Schuberth. Solid or Flip-up they get rave reviews.
 
Schuberth modular is THE quietest.

Reason, opening is tight around the neck where noise typically enters.
 
I find my Shoei RF1200 annoyingly loud, I always wear earplugs with it. Bought it because some years ago I had a RF1000 that I thought was very quiet.
 
I spent $50 on a new liner for my X-11 and it went back to quiet and snug fitting. This was after pricing new helmets. The old one was see-through. And gross. Worth trying before spending $500-800
 
As others have said, Schuberth. Their modular is actually quieter than their full face, due to the chin skirt being tighter on the modular.

No one else is willing to put DB numbers up, that speaks volumes to me.

I love the idea of ear plugs, but I've tried em all and they all end up hurting my ears after a few hours on the road.
 
At some point, no matter what the helmet design, it's going to still make noise. And frankly, the difference between one quality helmet and another isn't all that much. So....

Find the helmet that fits you best. If there's more than one, then buy the better made/designed helmet. Then, if it's too loud (which it very likely will be regardless of the helmet), wear earplugs.
 
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I tried out the new Bell Star briefly and it was very quiet and had no buffeting compared to my old Star and my Arai Vector 2. I find that the visor sealing, any vents, and mechanisms cause more air noise.

That said I always wear earplugs because wind noise is just deafening no matter what.
 
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