A road cruiser motorcycle has a certain specific seating position and is not intended for fast riding, which imposes special requirements on the rider’s equipment. In addition, over many decades, motorcycle culture has developed certain canons for the style of motorcycle equipment for cruisers, which must be taken into account when choosing models.
Almost all well-known brands offer equipment for cruiser owners. It can be made of both leather and textile materials. For the cold season, it is recommended to additionally buy a balaclava and men's thermal underwear.
Standard professional motorcycle equipment includes:
- Motorcycle helmet;
- Motorcycle jacket;
- Motorcycle jeans;
- Motorcycle boots;
- Moto gloves.
Which motorcycle helmet to choose?
Buying a motorcycle is a joyful event for a future biker.
But he should think about his protection and equipment. A helmet is the most important part of motorcycle equipment and should be purchased responsibly. It happens that a motorcyclist gets blindsided by the assortment presented in stores, and he gets confused about what kind of “germak” he needs. In the article we will give a number of tips for choosing that will definitely come in handy. Let's get started!
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Deciding on the type
Motorcycle helmets are divided into five main groups:
- integral (“full face”). The most popular type, chosen by both ordinary motorcyclists and regulars of high-speed racing. It is a one-piece configuration that fully protects the pilot's head, with a visor. Each equipment brand produces integrals in different price categories. Additional options are also available: ventilation, cheek pads, breathing deflectors. Ideal for road users (CB 400, Bandit 250) and sports (Yamaha R6, Honda CBR 954rr).
- modular (“transformer”). The type where the visor - the visor and the chin part - rises up. It is taken by travelers on motorcycles due to its convenience: you can carry on a conversation, quench your thirst, etc. The disadvantages are increased weight and poor sound insulation. The protective properties are quite high. Suitable for motorcycle tourists (BMW R1200GSAdventure, KTM1190Adventure Honda NC750X)
- open (“3/4”). It is a regular motorcycle helmet with a large visor or visor, but without a visor. It has a reduced level of safety, as the product manufacturers warn about. The jaw will be the first to be damaged in a fall. It is bought by drivers of maxi-scooters (Yamaha Majesty250, BMW C 650 GT), regular scooters and mopeds (Suzuki Sepia 50, Honda Dio 50)
- half (“nut” or “helmet”). Covers only the top of the head, leaving the entire face and jaw exposed. It has low protective functions because it does not completely protect against the consequences of an impact. Despite the existing fastening, in the event of an accident it often flies off or rolls to one side. When traveling, it will not protect your face from flying gravel, dust, sand or insects. It happens that bikers complement the “nut” look with wide glasses with a thick elastic band. This model is sought after by chopper riders because it fits the motorcycle class (Shadow 400, Yamaha XVS 650, VTX 1800)
- motocross. The choice of every off-road vehicle fan: from ATVs to crossovers. Distinctive features: an extended forward visor that protects from dirt, splashes and tree branches, and a protruding jaw. The color is bright and noticeable. Motocross helmets also have an improved ventilation system to ensure good air flow. Ideal for tandem with an enduro motorcycle (Suzuki Djebel 200, KTM 500 XC-W, Yamaha TT-R 250).
From what materials?
This is an important design feature that affects the strength of this part of the equipment and the cost. There are two main groups of materials: composite and thermoplastic. Carbon is added to composite specimens, which provides less weight and increased impact resistance. The covering is made separately or in layers from fiberglass, carbon fiber and Kevlar. "Germak" made of thermoplastic is less durable and resistant to deformation, its weight is 300 grams more than the composite one, and the cost is significantly lower. But don't chase the low price. If a motorcycle helmet made of thermoplastic is not solid, it may break faster. Remember that the lighter the product, the less impact there is on the upper spine during an impact in an accident. A heavy “germak” made of thermoplastic will be inconvenient on a long trip or in tourist traffic. Experienced bikers know that spending money on a helmet made of composite material is completely worth it.
Buy by size!
Choosing the wrong equipment reduces all equipment protection to zero. An example that is too loose provides proper fixation and can shift position upon impact. Too narrow - it is inconvenient and will press.
The first step is to measure your head circumference above the ear with a measuring tape. Every more or less well-known manufacturer of motorcycle helmets has a sizing table. Note: the values in the table are different for each company; they do not coincide.
for example, the dimensional grid of the icon company:
Popular manufacturers of motorcycle boots for riding choppers
It is better to buy professional motorcycle boots from reliable shoe manufacturers.
Most Popular:
Chopper
We are engaged in the production of classic boots made of genuine leather. Sports models are practically never produced.
TCX
Motorcycle boots are made based on the wishes of motorcyclists. Before motorcycle boots go on sale, they undergo rigorous testing. The main profile of their work is the production of sports motorcycle boots.
Spirit Motors
They specialize in the production of biker motorcycle boots for choppers, as well as classic motorcycle boots, which are made from high-quality leather.
AXO
They occupy first place in the world market for the production of motorcycle equipment. They are engaged in the manufacture of different models of motorcycle boots, from sports to classic ones.
RUSH
Their main difference is the low cost of motorcycle boots. Although in terms of quality they are in no way inferior to other companies. They mainly make high, black boots. Made using recycled leather with durable thermoplastic elements.
Forma
They produce various models of motorcycle boots: touring, sports, cross-country, and others.
MILWAUKEE MOTORCYCLE CLOTHING CO
They are engaged in the production of leather clothing and footwear. On the market for more than 30 years. Motorcycle boots are made mainly in the biker style.
PRO-BIKER
They produce universal, high-quality motorcycle boots. Various materials are used for their manufacture.
Icon Motorsport
A well-known American company that specializes in the manufacture of goods for motorcycle racing.
Alpinestars
They offer motorcycle boots that are made using the best technologies. All models are manufactured taking into account protective functions.
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Motorcycle helmet: features of choice and distinctive features
A motorcycle helmet is not just an accessory that should be chosen based on aesthetic considerations. Today, the helmet is one of the main elements of protection that protects the pilot from unwanted injuries and more tragic consequences.
Motorcycle helmets: types and their features
Today, the motorcycle equipment market offers several of the most common options, among which you can choose the most suitable one, depending on the type of motorcycle and the characteristics of riding it. So, a motorcycle helmet, or rather, the main types:
- Open. This type has gained great popularity among scooterists and happy owners of classic choppers. There are various modifications: with or without a visor, with a protective visor or improved cheek protection. This type provides absolute protection for the head, but unfortunately not for the face. Inexorable statistics clearly show that about 70% of impacts during a fall occur on the pilot’s jaw and face, which is why this helmet option is not very suitable for extreme driving. Such models have few advantages, but this type has a place among the rest of the variety of protective equipment.
- Closed (integral) type. This is the most common type of protection. A motorcycle helmet in this category has the maximum level of protection and is deservedly popular among the majority of representatives of the biker subculture. This helmet completely protects the head and face. The only negative is difficult ventilation.
Not so common types of helmets
In addition to the standard open and closed type, there are several modifications that differ in very specific characteristics, among which it is worth highlighting:
- Transformable helmet. This is a kind of closed type, which is distinguished by one design feature - a folding lower part (“jaw”). This motorcycle helmet is a success due to its versatility. One minor drawback is the weight of the entire structure. As a rule, such a helmet is 400 grams heavier than a regular one.
- Helmets for motocross motorcycles. This is a closed type of helmet, which is distinguished by a well-developed jaw and eye protection system, which is due to the presence of a specific visor. As a rule, this design is the best option for extreme off-road riding, so it is unlikely to be suitable for sports motorcycles.
- Potty, or helmet. This is a favorite option for fans of a leisurely and relaxed ride. This type of helmet can only protect against brain scanning by space aliens or pigeons, or rather, their “surprises.”
Which motorcycle helmet is better to choose?
Of course, the choice is largely determined by the nature of the ride and the equipment itself. In the first stages, you should immediately find out how much money you don’t mind spending to buy protection. Here, saving is far from the best option. The price tags for helmets are simply amazing in their variety, starting from 4,000 and ending somewhere around 20,000. It is worth noting that even the most expensive models cannot provide one hundred percent head protection during a fall, so relying on price alone is not recommended.
A motorcycle helmet must comply with international standards, so when choosing, you should pay attention to models offered by well-known manufacturers. The most common brands include DOT, Snell, ANSI. It is worth remembering that absolutely all motorcycle helmets are designed to withstand only one fall, after which you should replace it with a new one as soon as possible. In a favorable case, equipment is replaced approximately once every 2-4 years.
Additional options and extravagant helmet types
Having decided on the type of product and the main design features, it makes sense to pay attention to the size of the motorcycle helmet - this factor plays an important role. In addition to the basic options, manufacturers currently offer a variety of modifications that add a certain amount of riding comfort. For example, additional sunglasses or a replaceable visor, as well as the ability to install a mobile headset.
In addition, the modern design of helmets deserves special attention. Today, in addition to bright and rich colors, you can find truly unique options that will certainly attract the attention of everyone around you. Finally, it is worth adding that the helmet is the most significant element of equipment, and the life of the pilot and his safety depend on how correctly it is chosen.
The main characteristics of motorcycle boots for riding a chopper
Before purchasing motorcycle boots?
you need to know some of their characteristics. Having this knowledge will help you purchase reliable, durable, comfortable motorcycle boots. What to pay attention to when choosing:
- Material made of genuine thick leather. To make real motorcycle boots, high-quality thick leather is used, thanks to which the shoes fit comfortably on the foot and give the appropriate style. But modern racing motorcycle boots mainly use plastic and metal, they not only give the desired style, but also have a number of protective functions for the feet.
- Good defense. Motorcycle racing or calm riding implies some danger on the road. In this regard, motorcycle boots serve to protect the ankle and almost the entire leg. If riding involves racing competitions, then motorized boots are selected with maximum protective function.
- The comfort of motorcycle boots is ensured by the material from which they are made. The most comfortable fit on the leg allows you to feel confident and comfortable.
- Modern motorcycle boots are made to suit every taste and every style. Some people buy special shoes to ensure safe driving. And for some, ordinary motorcycle boots are suitable to create the desired style.
- Durable anti-slip sole. The sole is made from heavy-duty rubber, which prevents slipping on the road if the motorcyclist falls.
- The presence of a heel. Not all models of motorcycle boots have a heel. It mainly serves for the convenience and comfort of the foot. It can be found on models intended for racing. Motocross shoes come without heels because they look like regular sneakers. A special feature of biker motorcycle boots is the presence of a fairly even heel.
Chopper helmet - choosing the right one
Motorcycling has always been a highly traumatic sport. For this reason, the quality of the athlete's passive body protection plays a very important role in the event of an accident. It is the chopper helmet that serves as a guarantee of his safety in the event of an accident on the highway.
Types of motorcycle helmets
Depending on the type of riding, preferred speeds, as well as the image of the athlete, a certain type of helmet is selected.
- integral - a helmet for lovers of high speeds;
- modulator – a device that provides reliable head protection;
- a half-face helmet is a lightweight version of a helmet, but has high protective properties;
- helmet - a road helmet, mainly intended for bikers and creating a certain image of its owner.
Integral helmets
Motorcycle helmets of integral design, or as they are also called “full face”, are a high-tech rigid structural form of passive protection with the most developed protective functions. Helmets of this type are individually adjusted to the size and shape of the athlete’s head and are recommended for high-speed driving conditions.
You can find many brands of manufacturers of this type of product on sale, but I would like to highlight Shark motorcycle helmets, which are used by professional racers.
I would especially like to emphasize the quality of the material used in the construction of the helmet. To prevent allergic reactions to artificial materials, this manufacturer’s helmets use exclusively natural ingredients as fillers.
Helmet modular
The modular design of the motorcyclist's head protection device differs from the integral one in the ability to raise the lower part of the helmet's chin, which is quite convenient for daily use. This is an exclusively travel device that reliably protects the entire head and cervical vertebrae during sudden movements.
Half-face helmet
The half-face or open type of helmet has certain qualities, but due to the lack of chin protection, it is significantly inferior to the two previous designs in terms of functionality for preventing damage to the motorcyclist’s head.
Helmet - helmet
A helmet is the least suitable device for protecting an athlete from accidents. Head safety when using this helmet is not ensured at the appropriate level, and the use of this design is not recommended due to its low protective ability.
Other motorcycle helmets are also produced by industry. These include encrudo helmets, cross helmets and some other types designed specifically for a certain type of motorcycle competition.
Motorcycle helmet safety
Initially, when designing any motorcycle helmet, the goal is to maximize the absorption of the energy of an athlete’s head impact in the event of an accident.
To protect its citizens, each country develops its own safety standards for motorcycle helmets. It is currently impossible to find a helmet in Europe that does not comply with the ECE 22-05 standard introduced in 2000. American markets are saturated with products that meet DOT requirements (FMVSS 218) and the Snell M2000/M2005 standard is used as an additional guarantee of product quality.
As for the standardization of products in our country, our markets are saturated with products that meet the requirements of ECE, DOT and Snell, but Russian specialists are more favorable to the ECE standard.
Checks for compliance with established standards are carried out using control equipment specially adapted for this purpose, in which the helmet is given a given acceleration until it comes into contact with a support that has certain physical properties that simulate real conditions. Data received from an overload sensor placed in the padding of the helmet being tested is recorded by instruments and then analyzed for compliance with established standards.
Only a certified helmet is allowed into retail sales.
In most cases, a person’s life itself depends on how reliable a chopper helmet is, and no test can fully guarantee complete safety. Therefore, in this sport, the human factor always plays a decisive role, and his life depends on how the athlete is able to calculate his abilities.
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Video: Which helmet to choose?
Cruiser helmet
Initially, open motorcycle helmets were associated with cruiser motorcycles, but in modern traffic conditions, a multifunctional modular helmet would be the best choice. It will reliably protect the biker’s head, and if you lift the “jaw”, you can easily talk with the gas station attendant or friends, drink coffee or tea.
To get closer to the classic open version, you can buy a model that includes integrated motorcycle goggles. In summer, you can raise the helmet visor and ride with glasses.
Everything you need to know about open face helmets
What do the words have in common: pot, nut, watermelon rind, helmet, half? This is what the common people call open helmets. They are still alive on store shelves, although more technical integrals and modulars have significantly shaken the authority of open helmets. What helmets are offered today? Who chooses an open-face helmet in modern times?
What kind of helmets are called open?
Open - implies the absence of the lower facial part of the structure. It is customary to distinguish two main options:
Helmets have long become obsolete. They are only used in retro style or for decoration, but since its level of protection is the same as that of house slippers instead of motorcycle boots, wearing a helmet is unreasonable and too dangerous. Few stores seriously put helmets on their shelves.
The ¾ helmet is much more interesting, it covers most of the head, as the name obviously implies - ¾ of the head for sure. Additions are added to the base, which meets all necessary standards in terms of materials. The helmet may have built-in goggles, visors of various shapes (the longer the better), visors, or regular goggles with an elastic band, like motocross helmets.
The question of the presence of a pinlock does not even arise here, since the space of the helmet is not enclosed.
Modifications of open helmets began to appear more often, where in addition to glasses, the kit included a mask ala a breathing deflector. The option is interesting, especially since the front part is covered with a plastic insert. This helps against insects and makes breathing easier at high speeds, but if you fall on the asphalt, your jaw will still be injured due to the mobility of the structure. Many people fell in love with such models primarily for their original image, reminiscent of a fighter pilot’s helmet.
What are the pros and cons of open face helmets?
Let's start with the good. The advantages of the helmet include:
Ideal ventilation
In integrals and modulars you often have to open the visor slightly when it gets too stuffy. The open helmet is not closed, which means it has excellent ventilation. Another question is, if you decide to drive at high speed, and nothing covers your face and airways (you only have glasses or a short visor), then the air flow turns out to be excessive and the pilot begins to suffocate due to the fact that he cannot breathe adequately. Natural speed limiter. To the question of why many bikers use a bandana to cover their faces from insects, dust and excessive wind resistance with open helmets.
Great review
I sit high and look far away. For open-face helmet wearers, the correct way to say it is “wide-eyed.” An open helmet does not restrict the motorcyclist's view. You often hear complaints about some models of helmets: they say you can only see directly and then at eye level. But nothing interferes here, especially if you use a round visor and not glasses.
Little weight
Such helmets have little functionality, and the body, as we remember, is not cast, which means the weight of the helmets is very modest.
Audibility
This is a controversial point, so it will be listed in the minuses too. Sometimes we don’t see the source of danger, but we hear that it exists. Typical situation with blind spots or limited visibility. Open helmets allow you to “listen” to everyone around you, react to the sound of the exhaust or the voices of passers-by.
Ease of use
Simple as a brick, nothing complicated. Maximum – users get confused with fasteners the first time and that’s it. The fewer options, the easier the operation. Have you ever tried to give a person far from motorcycle life some advanced modular? With what attempt will he throw back his “cheek”?
Budgeting
Cheap and cheerful. There is little material and little functionality, so why pay more? The price of open helmets is quite reasonable, which is why they are in demand among beginners. On the other hand, first-season models fall more often, and the jaw of these models is not protected.
In my opinion, open helmets have only two obvious disadvantages :
Minimum level of protection
As the motorcyclists very cleverly noted at the Harley-Davidson summit, there will be talk about freedom in open helmets only until the first serious fall, until the first knocked out tooth. The problem of an open chin is an indisputable fact.
Noisiness
The item that was listed as audibility in the pros turns into cons when there are too many street sounds. It's like listening to music: you like it when you're training and it's on your headphones for the first hour or two, but it's incredibly annoying at three in the morning behind your neighbors' wall. So here it is, a double-edged sword. The noise gets on your nerves when you have to drive all day.
What are biker motorcycle boots for choppers?
Biker boots are a little different from regular motorcycle boots. They are made in the form of shoes or boots with a rectangular toe and a flat heel. The rectangular shape of the toe serves for convenient switching of the gas and brake pedals.
Bikers also use shoes called “bastards.” They have a metal plate in the toe that protects the foot from injury. Thanks to the thick skin from which the “bastards” are made, the foot does not overheat.
To make the sole, a special vulcanized rubber is used, which is not only glued, but also equipped with screws. Therefore, this type of shoe is considered very durable and reliable.
