1. We get letters wanting to know about the Davida Classic half-helmets used in some of the photos of our magazine, and, while cool, they don’t conform to any safety standards. We recommend the Davida Jet, as it integrates the finest features of the traditional open-face helmet into a modern product. Along with its DOT rating and quilted leather interior with a satin crown, it features a fiberglass shell and a goggle retainer. We also ordered a pair of Aviator Pilot T1 goggles in a chrome finish to complete the package. They really complete the look, and have a curved body and frame for wide peripheral vision. A handy carrying case is included. Price: $315.00 (helmet) and $135.00 (goggles). More info: www.jettisonusa.com
2. We ordered a Fulmer AFD4 after hearing good things about it from several sources. The lid features an EPS padded chin bar, a quick-release shield system, a plush removable/washable interior, Fulmer’s Air Channel Technology vent system, a padded D-ring retention system, adjustable chin and top vent, rear exhaust vents and it is DOT approved. Though we ordered ours in a Joust Red design, it also comes in a variety of solid colors. Price: $109.95. More info: www.fulmerhelmets.com
3. The Z1R Strike is an office favorite. Editor Backus and publisher Bryan Welch have been wearing theirs for over a year and have no complaints other than wind noise. It has features you’d normally find on more expensive models, including chin venting that helps prevent shield fogging, an advanced ABS/Polycarbonate alloy shell that passes DOT standards, and a venting system with two closeable forehead intakes and rear exhaust ports. Also available in Rubatone (rubberized paint) finishes. Price: Starting at $79.95. More info: www.z1rhelmets.com
4. The Shark RSX Initial SLM is one high-class piece of gear. Its shell is made from Carbon/Aramid multi-directional composite fibers. It features integrated ducts, a dual treated (anti-scratch/anti-fog) Total Vision 3mm visor with a quick-release system, Touch One flush rapid-opening ventilation, a removable and washable interior made of Coolmax fabric, ergonomic cheek pads, a D-ring chin strap, plus an industry-leading five-year warranty. Price: Starting at $349.95. More info: www.shark-helmetsus.com
5. The Nolan X-1002 is a comfortable lid of advanced construction: Its shell is a combination of carbon, Kevlar, Kural, and fiberglass. It features an articulating chin bar opening system and a Smartlift latch system allows both one and two-handed opening. The VPS sun shield is easy to remove when it isn’t needed, the liner is removable for washing, and it also has a pinlock anti-fog insert and a tool-less quick-change Lexan face shield. Its adjustable Microlock retention system is fast and reliable. There’s also a great venting system and a deluge-proof face shield gasket. Price: $357.00. More info: www.aerostich.com
6. The AGV Dragon has menacing looks and features a thermoplastic shell, a clear anti-scratch polycarbonate shield and it also comes with an additional tinted shield in the box (shown). Other highlights include a Dry Comfort, hygienic treatment liner, a three-snap tinted removable peak, and a quick release buckle we just love. DOT certified. Price: $119.95. More info: www.agv.com
7. We’ve put more miles on our HJC CL-33 than any of the other helmets here (mainly because we’ve had it longer), and we still love it. Its full-length flip-up shield offers protection from bugs and more, but it never gets hot and stuffy like a full-face can in the warmest of temps. It’s DOT approved with a polycarbonate shell, adjustable forehead ventilation, a brushed nylon interior and an integrated quick-change shield system. Price: Starting at $94.99. More info: www.helmethouse.com
8. The HJC CL-Max is on the affordable end of the flip-up helmet scene, but it’s also one of our favorites. With an injection-molded thermoplastic shell, it’s DOT certified and features a single button release mechanism, along with two adjustable upper forehead intake vents, two venturi exhaust vents, a three-position adjustable chin-bar vent, and removable, washable cheek pads and upper liner. Price: Starting at $179.99. More info: www.helmethouse.com