With the riding season bearing down on us, the time is ripe for some
preventive maintenance. A little time and effort expended now can ensure
your riding season won't be interrupted by mechanical, or other,
problems. You can also get your bike just the way you want it for
maximum enjoyment on summer rides.
Service department: A full tune and service is a good place to start.
This should include sometimes overlooked measures like changing the
brake fluid and lubing major pivots—such as the steering head and
swingarm. Liquid-cooled bikes should have their cooling systems flushed
every few years. Whether you or your shop does this service, it should
include a careful search for signs of weakness (loose spokes or an
oozing gasket, for example). Fix anything that could take you off the
road. Are there any adjustments that would make your bike more
comfortable or manageable? Perhaps the brake pedal location or the angle
of the handlebar? Do it now.
Early replacement: You should also replace any parts that are getting
old before they put a crimp on your summer fun. Tires are the best
example. If they are getting thin or aged-cracked or worn in the middle,
making the motorcycle squirrely when leaned over, it makes sense to
replace them now. This gives you time to order the tires you want, not
just what the dealer has on hand. A premium aftermarket tire will
generally give longer mileage and better traction. Other candidates for
early retirement include an aging battery or brake pads. Again, you can
order what you want now. Light bulbs also fall in this category. They
get old and dim before they blow out. We usually replace all the minor
bulbs every two years (use the heavy-duty versions of those bulbs) and
keep a headlight bulb handy. You might also consider replacing your
headlight bulb with one that has the same 55-watt low beam but a
significantly brighter 75- to 100-watt high beam for more light when you
need it most. (It will also get the attention of those other drivers who
don't dim their lights until they are 10 feet away.) Make sure your
charging system will handle it, especially if you also have other
electrical accessories, such as spotlights.
Accessorize: The off-season is also the ideal time to equip your bike
for the rides you're planning for this summer. This might mean a
backrest for your riding companion or traveling amenities like
saddlebags, a rack and a comfortable saddle. Saddlebags can also be
handy if you plan to commute. Or how about one of Rivco's air horns to
get the attention of those cell-phone users who are supposed to be
drivers?
Riding gear: This is the time to replace that scratched face shield or
tattered rainsuit. You might also want an additional pair of gloves,
perhaps something warmer than that lightweight, vented pair but not as
hot as winter gloves. Are the soles on your boots losing their tread?
Better to replace or resole them now than put your foot down in a sandy
patch of road and watch it slide out from under you. Has your helmet
gotten loose and floppy from extensive wear? Are the seams on your
jacket or gloves unraveling? Take care of these things now. And you
might want to expand the range of your gear. A vented jacket will make
riding on hot days much more fun than that heavy one and is safer and
can ven be cooler than no jacket.
Join the club: If there is a club for your model, consider joining it.
You will get access to the combined experience of all the members.
You'll learn which accessories work best, fixes for weak points and
other useful information. You will probably also make some friends and
find new events in your area. For example, Kawasaki Vulcan owners can
join the Vulcan Riders and Owners Club (VROC) free with Web access (www.
vroc.org) and be bombarded with the wit and wisdom of fellow Vulcaneers.)
Most other cruiser brands and models also have web-based organizations,
many of them free.
Take the course: Nothing interrupts your riding season like a crash. Why
not sign up for the Motorcycle Safety Foundation's Experienced
RiderCourse? To find one in your neck of the woods, call (800) 446-9227.
Many states' courses are filled up for the year by spring, so call right
now. Do it with your riding companions. You might also consider some
other types of skills-building courses. See "Back to School for ideas.
Make a list: Finally, put a small pad of paper and a writing implement
in your riding jacket or a storage spot on your bike. Use it to make a
list of things that require attention, replacement or adjustment, and
accessories you find yourself needing. It will come in handy at this
time next year.
One of the dangers of popularity, such as that
currently being experienced by cruisers, is that it also makes that type
of motorcycle popular with thieves. As the customer base expands, there
are more people who need parts, and some who don't feel like paying
retail. But even inexpensive motorcycles with little following are
stolen more often than their owners expect. Insuring against theft can
help after the fact, but most owners are disappointed with the blue-book
value that the insurer pays after the theft. And nothing compensates for
that feeling of having been violated when your bike is stolen.
The solution starts with the recognition that your bike might be a
target for thieves. A little paranoia is a good thing; it can even be
fun. And a little may be all you need; many thefts can be prevent just
with elementary precautions.
Why Steal My Bike?
Motorcycles get stolen for a variety of motives. It may be a simple
crime of opportunity. The bike is there, and the thief sees no obstacles
to a quick heist. The reason may be a simple joy ride or an amateur
thief who thinks he can get something for your bike. Of course, it can
be a pro, too. A pro probably has a shopping list; today your bike could
be on the list.
Stolen motorcycles that aren't simply discarded when a joy-rider gets
done can be delivered into several fates. They can be dismantled for
parts. They can be smuggled out of the country and sold as-is, vehicle
identification number (VIN) intact. (They have to pay for all those
drugs smuggled into the country somehow.) The parts can be installed in
a custom frame -- or what is passed off as a custom frame -- and sold as
a new bike. Probably least likely, since it involves the most effort,
they can just be given altered VINs and resold here.
The bikes most likely to make a pro's shopping list are bikes that are
frequently crashed, those which have some racing application, those for
which the engine has some other use (such as a some car-racing formula
class), those which are often customized, and those sold in large
numbers. Many cruiser models fall into both the last two categories.
Out of Sight, Out of Mind
Most people recognize that casual theft is a crime of opportunity, but a
pro needs an opportunity as well. He needs to find your motorcycle. He
may get lucky and find it unlocked in a not-too-busy public place while
he's on his way to get a quart of milk and simply take it on the spot.
More likely he sees it parked somewhere regularly and makes a note when
he has an order, spots you riding it and follows you home or to work and
grabs it later, or shops at a large motorcycle event, where large
numbers of motorcycles show up and their owners go inside and leave
their bikes unattended.
Covering your bike make it less obvious what it is and adds a minor
barrier to theft.
To prevent a thief from spotting your bike, hide it. If you have a
regular Wednesday-night Bingo habit, put a cover over the bike in the
church parking lot after you lock it and set the alarm. If you spend
Friday and Saturday nights at a friend's house, ask if you can park your
pink cruiser in her garage instead leaving out where anyone can get at
it. Park your bike next to the security shack at work, cover it and make
friends with all the security folks, so they know who should be leaving
with that bike.
To keep thieves from knowing where it's garaged, watch your mirrors as
you approach your residence. About once a month, as I approach my house,
I'll spot someone who might be following me. Instead of making that
final turn toward home, I'll drive right on by, then make three or four
turns around a block a short way beyond. If that vehicle is still
following after I have made that many turns, my next turn is toward the
police station. When I get home, the bike immediately gets tucked out of
view. This is also why we recommend that, when selling a bike, you never
meet the potential buyer at your house, since this may simply be a way
of lining up a bike to steal. And a test ride can be tantamount to
giving the bike away, no matter now good his collateral seems to be. We
have received letters from people who lost their bikes after accepting a
stolen car as a guarantee of good faith or a "girlfriend," who turned
out to be a woman the thief just met. The victim even had to drive her
home.
The now-defunct annual motorcycle show at Anaheim, California turned
into a sort of shopping center for crooks. Thieves had hundreds of bikes
to choose from and only light traffic in the lot, which didn't even have
a security officer. A crook would show up and cruise the lot for a while
looking at the bikes, helmet in hand. No one thought anything about it.
Upon finding a bike he wanted with nothing to slow down his departure,
he popped the ignition lock and took off. This scenario is repeated at
other motorcycle events around the country. Police have found semi
trailers full of stolen bikes at Daytona Bike Week. The wary owner has
one ace to play at these events: with so many bikes to choose from,
chances are that most thieves will pass yours over if you do almost
anything to make it a bit harder to steal.
Large parking areas, like parking structures at major airports, are also
likely places for thieves to find bikes. We have a company policy that
prohibits testers from parking borrowed motorcycles at major airports.
College parking lots, malls, even the street in front of motorcycle
dealers are other easy places for thieves to locate a particular bike.
An airport parking lot is pretty deserted at 2:00 a.m., and the bad guys
may have time to bypass multiple theft deterrents. If you use such
places, try to park in sight of the attendants AND use at least a hefty
lock.
Hard to Steal
I know of an instance where a lightweight bicycle chain that probably
could have been cut with a solid pair of dikes stopped a thief, who had
presumably overlooked it and was surprised after he popped the
ignition/fork lock and tried to ride away. On the other end of the
spectrum, thieves cut through three burly locks and took a fourth with
the bike.
This last bike was a textbook case of the capabilities of professional
thieves. The bike was garaged in a communal garage at an apartment
building, and you had to talk to a security guard on the way in. The
three locks that were cut secured the bike to an immovable object. The
fourth merely kept it from rolling, which probably wasn't a problem with
a van. In another case, thieves broke a gate lock, a garage lock,
removed the front wheel which was locked to something solid and carried
the bike over a bigger, newer, more expensive bike to put it in their
van. The bare frame was found the following day beside a remote road.
You might suspect that there is safety in numbers at a motorcycle event,
but thieves attend them with shopping lists. You can protect your bike
by making it harder to steal than another one just like it.
Almost anything will stop the joy-rider. In fact, enacting helmet laws
brings a decrease in motorcycle theft because the thief must have a
helmet if he plans to ride the bike away or he runs a significant risk
of attracting the attention of the police. This helps eliminate
spur-of-the-moment rip-offs. A visible lock or obvious alarm will often
(but not always) keep the amateur from even trying to steal your bike.
We have heard of cases where an amateur tried unsuccessfully to steal a
bike despite an obvious lock. The ignition switch was jimmied, but the
lock stopped them.
Ride-away theft is easier to deal with than the gang who throws your
bike in a truck. The solo thief may carry a slide-hammer and perhaps
some cutters, but he probably can't deal with a hefty U-lock, a thick
cable or a good disc lock. You can also stop him with a surprise: a
hidden switch in the ignition or main circuit that keeps the bike from
starting, a hidden fuel cut-off that stops the bike 100 feet down the
road, a hidden lock (such as a small padlock in the chain) or unusual
obstacle (a lock that pulls the centerstand toward the front wheel, for
example) or an alarm that doesn't announce itself until the bike starts.
He will probably check for an alarm by bumping the bike to see if it
beeps before he tries to take it and may find a way to subvert it if he
finds one. We sometimes remove the fuses from bikes when we park to
prevent ride-aways, and this saved a bike once. The important thing here
is to use some form of anti-theft measure. Most cruisers have separate
fork and ignition lock, which at least doubles the work load -- provided
the rider utilizes them, but a disc lock or alarm raises your security
level substantially.
Professionals are a greater challenge, but surprise can be especially
effective here. If an unexpected alarm sounds while he is trying to
defeat a solid lock, he's probably gone if the lock hasn't been beaten
yet. If something out of the ordinary occurs, he's likely to move on.
And many pros are just looking for the quick, easy hit; they ride the
unprotected bike away. A lock will stop them because it involves extra
time and risk.
Locks
Locks offer varying degrees of security, convenience and portability. A
simple lock like a disc lock, which simply prevents the wheel from
turning, fits into most pockets but does nothing to stop the gang that
throws a bike into a truck. A cable or large U-lock that locks the bike
to something solid presents an obstacle to four-wheeled thieves.
Ideally, this lock should be secured to a part of the bike that can't be
unbolted the way a wheel can. A system like Kryptonite's Barbed Wire,
which uses a long cable that can be looped around a lightpost at one end
and secured with a disc lock (perhaps to the frame) at the other gives
maximum reach for every foot and pound of cable.
Carrying a hefty cable may be difficult unless you have saddlebags.
However, using two locks, preferably of different designs so different
tools are required to break them, virtually ensures against ride-away
theft. You should be able to use a cable system at home. If you own your
home, you can install fixtures in your garage to provide a secure
locking point. This can be a steel loop or simple eyebolts sunk into
your garage floor.
Even an inexpensive padlock snapped to the wheel, disc or chain can
deter a would-be thief. Just be sure that you have a system to remind
you to remove it before you try to ride away.
If you don't have a fixture or light post available, lock that cable to
any large object it can reach -- another bike, a car bumper, anything
that prevents the slimeballs from taking your bike without cutting the
cable. A U-lock that secures a frame rail or fork tube to a
parking-meter pole can be very effective because the bike must be lifted
above the parking meter -- which may block it -- if they plan to take it
without destroying the lock.
When choosing a lock, rely on an established, respected brand. Companies
like Kryptonite and Cobralinks have been around for a long time and have
had lots of experiences which allows them to improve and toughen their
products. The newcomers and cheap imitations are susceptible to the
techniques developed to defeat those locks years ago. Next, choose a
lock that doesn't require more than you are willing to deal with. If you
have no convenient way to carry a sturdy cable, its security will
eventually be left at home when you need it. On the other hand, a U-lock
or disc lock is handy for anybody. Some bikes have storage spaces
designed for U-locks, and others have spots that will accommodate them
easily.
One warning about wheel locks. Sooner or later almost everybody forgets
the lock and starts to ride away. There are two simple tactics to
prevent this. One is to always park so that you must back out of the
parking spot. In addition to adding one extra delay for a thief, this
will remind you that the lock is there before it damages your bike or
causes you to tip over. The other system uses a piece of tape, When the
lock is installed on the wheel, the tape goes over your ignition
keyhole. When you remove the lock, the tape is put over its keyhole.
Alarms
Since an experienced, well-equipped thief can defeat virtually any lock
arrangement given enough time -- which may just be a minute or two --
you can stop him by reducing the time he has to work. The best way to do
this is with an alarm.
Alarms range from simple motion sensors or devices that respond to the
ignition being turned on to devices with remote arming, perimeter
sensors, anti-hijack set-ups, ignition kill circuits, pagers and other
features. Our Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Classic is fitted with a Scorpio
alarm system that includes most of these features. From our offices on
the 17th floor, we have no way of hearing the alarm's siren, but the
pager would at least let us look out the window and see which way the
bike went -- assuming they got past the ignition-disable feature,
building security and the 20-pound adjustable wrench of our shop
foreman.
Alarms are available with all sorts of security and convenience
features.
Probably the most important consideration when choosing and setting up
an alarm is minimizing false alarms without making it excessively
insensitive. False alarms are annoying and will make you ill-prepared
for a real theft in progress. However, assuming you use an alarm in
conjunction with a lock or locks, you want it to be sensitive enough to
sound off when a thief begins to attack your lock. This requires extra
time with the sensitivity adjustment during installation and, usually,
some follow-up adjustment after it's installed.
Many alarms include an external light, which signals that the unit is
armed and may also provide other signals, such as alerting you that the
alarm has been tripped in your absence. These are intended to discourage
the casual or amateur thief, and may save you from returning to discover
that your ignition lock has been smashed before the alarm was triggered.
However, they will also warn a pro that he has to defeat the alarm. We
would rather buy a few ignition lock sets than let a pro have the bike,
so we prefer to dispense with these.
We like pagers, since no one pays attention to alarms any more, and we
like features that permit us to disable the motion sensor when you park
in a very busy area. We also prefer not to have a perimeter alarm, which
seems to cause more problems than it solves (unless you have a private
parking space).
When installing an alarm, we wire it -- especially on the ground side --
directly to the battery. This prevents a thief from disabling it by
cutting the ground wire. Wiring and the siren should be out of sight so
they can't be attacked by the thief. If the alarm has a remote with an
anti-hijack feature, we fasten the remote to the key with a two-piece
pull-apart key chain and always separate the remote and put it in a
pocket before starting the bike. The remote is no good if the bike-jacker
rides away with it still attached to the key. Bike-jacking seems to be a
pleasantly rare crime, however.
An alarm is most effective when used in conjunction with a lock. Even a
basic motion sensor with siren can cut down the time a thief has to try
to defeat your lock(s). If it surprises him, all the better. Remember
that a pro will usually bump the bike to see if it has an alarm. If your
normally reliable alarm goes off one night, it may be an indication that
a pro is scouting your bike and will return with a means of defeating
the alarm before he attacks the lock(s). This may be a warning to add to
or vary your security measures. It's also a case for having a pager
without an external siren. The thief will never know that he has
triggered the alarm until you and Smith and Wesson inform him.
One note about "false" alarms. They may not be. A thief scouting your
bike may bump it to see if it has an armed alarm. One victim tells us
that the alarm for his bike, parked outside his apartment, started going
off every few nights. He finally stopped setting it, and sure enough,
the bike was gone a couple of nights later.
Perhaps even more effective than an alarm on the bike is an alarm in
your garage. Whether this is a dedicated system or an extension of the
system on the rest of your home, it will give you warning before a thief
can even begin to address the lock(s) securing your bike. We like
systems with battery back-ups and no external pieces that a thief can
disable. Door or motion sensors are probably the most useful, but even a
pressure pad is effective. Motion-activated floodlights at the
entrance(s) to your garage can also discourage thieves.
Be Creative
Some campers tie one or more of the lines supporting a tent to their
bike. If someone truies to steal the bike, the tent wiggles and falls
down. The thief also has to be very close to them.
Anything unexpected can stop a thief cold. I mentioned pulling the main
or ignition fuse when you park. I knew someone who discovered that a
faceshield stored under his seat got sucked into the intake for the
airbox at large throttle openings. He promptly made a plug that he kept
under the seat and stuck in the air intake when he parked his bike. It
wouldn't run above idle with it installed. Another wired a hidden
two-way switch into his starter button; when he parked, he flipped it so
that pushing the starter button started the horn honking, and it
wouldn't stop until he turned it off. A third reconfigured his petcock
handle so that when off, it appeared to be on reserve. There are a
variety of creative things you can do to wiring, choke controls, and
other parts to confuse ride-away thieves. Imagine a clutch that won't
engage, a centerstand that doesn't retract or no shift lever there to
select a gear.
Your home garage can provide all sorts of discouraging surprises. A
long-time neighbor finally confided his anti-theft secret to me after
he'd foiled a break-in. He simply ran a black-thread trip-wire just
inside the only entrance to his garage. If pulled, it set off a
mousetrap, which closed a circuit with a car battery, a horn and a
turn-signal flasher. The racket was tremendous, and the price was small.
I talked to him recently; his current project at his new place to
protect his small fleet of bikes includes not only an alarm but a stout
"kid killer" (his words) garage door that slams shut and can only be
unlocked from the outside. He plans to catch the next thief and hand him
over to the cops. (I suggested adding pepper spray to the system to make
them thoroughly unhappy during their stay.)
One owner tied a thread from his bike to a pile of bottles in his
garage. He reasoned that people will ignore an alarm, but not the sound
violence of breaking glass. It worked.
Communal garages, such as those in apartment complexes, provide a
challenge. Lots of people see your bike, and finding something to secure
it to may be difficult. However, you should negotiate a spot where you
can lock to a pillar or pipe A cover helps, and one that locks around
the bikes and prevents passers-by from discerning what's inside may
help. You can buy storage shelters or make one out of a framework of
light wood and heavy plastic, fabric or wood. You can also resort to
disguise. A cover that says "BMW" is probably less likely to attract the
interest of thieves than one that says "Harley." Just make sure nothing
peeks out to give you away. A tattered cover also suggests that's what's
beneath has little value. Use a car to block access to you bike (those
things have to have some useful function.)
And don't forget simple things. When your ride to a restaurant, park
where you can see the bike. Parking where the bike is hard to move will
tell you when your bike is being test-sat and when someone is actually
trying to steal it. Heading into a downhill parking spot may require an
effort when you leave, but will also delay the thief and make it obvious
what his intentions are.
Recovery
Many bikes come back after being stolen, though they are usually the
worse for wear. (We heard of one rider who recovered his bike with
several problems repaired, however.) A smashed ignition lock is a given,
and they are often crashed. If a professional gets it, your chances of
recovery are sharply reduced, though there are a few things you can do.
Kawasaki Vulcan 1600 Classic right side view front of lodge
The oldest anti-theft strategy in the world is to park your bike where
you can see it, such as in front of the window at a restaurant.
The simplest is to mark your driver's license number (which we are told
is more accessible to police than your social security number) on
out-of-the-way places of various components--the backs of covers, under
the seat, the dipstick, etc. If police bust a bike-theft ring, they may
able to identify your bike even if the VIN is gone. One rider got his
bike back because he photocopied the registration and rolled the copy up
inside the handlebar. You put the same thing in the toolbag, in the
headlight shell or under some cover. At the least, you might help put
the thieves in prison.
Vehicle-tracking systems, like the Lojack, can be applied to some
motorcycles, depending on where you live and what sort of space your
bike has to hide the electronics. Cruisers with saddlebags are
candidates for such systems.
If your bike is rare, your community small or your luck and perseverance
strong, you might even run it down yourself. We know of one rider who
heard of a rare model just like his recently stolen one for sale. When
he went to look at it, he discovered it was his. He haggled
convincingly, went to the car "to get the money" for a deposit and
marked the bills, went "to get the rest of the money" and came back with
the police. He got his machine and his "deposit" back and sent the thief
to jail.
The most important aspect of an anti-theft system is to use it. Even
that separate fork lock provides a significant deterrent to a casual
thief, and the addition of a simple disc lock stops him cold. Even
well-equipped gangs of thieves might pass over a cable-locked bike for
something less protected. And, of course, if they don't know it's there,
they won't bother it at all.
An effective anti-theft system can be very unsatisfying -- because you
don't know that it has worked. You may never see the guy eyeing your
bike or find evidence that someone made a play for it and discovered it
was too hard to steal. You may pass off an alarm's signal as a misfire
because the would-be new owner was out of sight when you got there.
Don't let your guard
Just because no one has ever stolen your motorcycle
before, that doesn't mean that it won't happen today. All kinds of
motorcycles get stolen from all sorts of places. Though popular bikes,
especially those that are frequently crashed or have expensiove
crash-susceptible parts are the most common targets, even boring little
beaters can get snatched. We have heard of old beat-up "entry-level"
being stolen despite being carefully locked up and covered as well brand
new bikes wearing locks and stashed away in seemingly safe locked
private garages inside gated yards. Motorcycle gathering places—shows,
races, rallies, charity ride, etc.— are often targeted. Urban areas are
probably more dangerous for motorcycles, but we have also heard of bikes
being stolen from farm sheds.
They can be stolen on impulse by joy riders, by real thieves because
they were easy targets, or by full-fledged gone-in-60-seconds
professional thieves because that have customers for them. You may have
trouble fending off the latter group once they have spotted your bike,
but you can more effectively defend agains the first two types.
1. Lead Them Not Into Temptation.
The less your bike is seen, the less likely a thief will cozy up to it.
If you don't have a garage, keep it covered. Not knowing what's
underneath makes it harder to assess the difficulty of stealing it ot to
know if it's even a bike they want. By putting a BMW cover on your
Harley, you can also create the impression that it is a bike that is
less likely to be stolen than what it actually is.
2. Steer Clear
Although readily defeated, your bike's steering lock can be a first-step
defense and will discourage easy maneuvering of the bike. It is even
more useful if your ignition and steering locks are separate, so the
thief needs to defeat two locks to escape with your scooter.
3. Keep It Up
Whatever lock you use, don't rest it on the ground, where the thief is
more likely to be able to get enough leverage to break it. If you attach
to lock up away from the groud, the thief probably won't that extra
leverage to pry the lock. The lock should be attached through the frame,
or less desirably, forks or wheel.
4. Lock It Down
A disc lock might inconvenience joy-riders, but determined thieves can
simply hoist such a bike into a waiting truck. If you add a cable to it
and anchor that to something solid, you have a more formidable. Even
bikes inside garages should be securely locked.
5. The Power Of Two
It's best to use two or more locks of different types in addition to
your bike's built-in lock(s). Unless a thief has surveiled your bike, he
probably won't be prepared to tackle different kinds of locks. And if
one of them anchors the bike to something immovable, a gang won't be
able to carry it to a truck.
Theft increases during the riding months, when bikes are more likely to
be parked some place vulnerable and in demand.
6. Don't Cheap Out
Go for the good stuff when shopping for security: Alarmed disc locks,
U-locks of hardened steel and asymmetrical chains (5/8 inches or
greater) all rate highly.
7. Get Sneaky
If you're really determined to foil the bad guys, wire up a kill-switch
or spring-loaded switch that must be held down when the start button is
depressed. Some riders have foiled attempted thefts by simply removing
the main fuse when they parked their bikes.
8. So That's The Key!
Make a record of your key numbers, then file them off the locks if
they're stamped on. Anyone with a number can have a key cut to fit.
9. Shine A Light
If you park outside, choose a well-lit, conspicuous area. If you can't
lock your bike to something solid and stationary, try another bike
(preferably not one belonging to a stranger). Even plastering your bike
with "Alarm Installed" stickers could discourage the bastards.
10. Make Some Noise
Alarms may seem like a good way to attract attention to the fact that
someone is attempting to purloin your bike, but in most places we have
gotten so used to false alarms that people don't investigate or even
bother to look. But everyone pays attention to sounds of
destruction—such as breaking glass. A large stack of beer bottles with a
trip wire makes a sound that everyone will investigate when it gets
tipped over.
11. Watch Your Back
Professional thieves often find the bikes they want to steal (probably
because they have orders for them) by following them to where they are
parked during the day or night. Then they size up the situation and come
back with what they need to bag the motorcycle. So, as you approach your
destination, especially if it's home, watch your mirrors for several
blocks. If someone seems to be following you, try to lose them, pull
over and let them pass (leaving an escape route in case they are
bikejackers), make a U-turn or go around the block. Anyone who continues
to follow you is probably trouble. Just don't go home or into your
company or school parking lot until you have shaken them off.
12. Remove it Or Lose It Last but not least, remember to remove your
cable, disc or U-lock before riding away. For styrategies for preventing
this too-common blunder see Don't Forget Your Motorcycle's Disc or Wheel
Lock.
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Motorcycle Helmet with Clear Flip Up Shield. This has one of the best
modular
flip up locking design which will not fail like most of the cheap ones
available
there and easy to operate with one hand.
DOT Certified: Yes
How to find your size ?
To find your size, get a
helper do the measurement with a cloth tape measure
to measure the circumference of your forehead at the position you want
the
helmet liner to rest. This is 1 inch above the eye brows. If your
measurement
falls between two of the sizes, please choose the bigger size for this
helmet.
XS - 53 cm to 54 cm (20.5 -
21.26 inches or Hat Size 6 5/8 to 6 3/4)
S - 55 cm to 56 cm (21.27 to 22.05 inches or Hat Size 6 7/8 to 7)
M - 57 cm to 58 cm (22.06 to 22.83 inches or Hat Size 7 1/8 to 7 1/4)
L - 59 cm to 60 cm (22.84 to 23.62 inches or Hat Size 7 3/8 to 7 1/2)
XL - 61 cm to 62 cm (23.63 to 24.41 inches or Hat Size 7 5/5 to 7 3/4)
Features:
Very Light Weight one-piece Space Age Polymer construction
The best ventilation system in its class with 2 adjustable
chin vents and
the new Flow-Through forehead ventilation system.
Modular flip up design for the chin bar and the clear shield
too
Polycarbonate Multi-Ratcheting Anti-Scratch Clear shield
included at no
extra charge
One button flip up, just use one hand to flip up both the
shield and the
chin bar
UV Protected High Gloss Clear Coat Finish to keep your helmet
looking good
for years.
Padded neck roll for added comfort - Stainless Steel D-rings
so will not
rust
Free fabric helmet bag
Clear shield included at no additional charge (Replacement
smoke/rainbow/clear shields available. Buy them now)
Quality interior
Partly removable lining for easy cleaning.
With cooler temps coming on I'm interested in a new, nice modular
helmet. I don't want any wild graphics. I need some venting. I don't
want to pay a ga-zillion dollars. So what has been you guys experience
with these and the best place to get them. I've went to a couple local
dealers and their selection is not so good.
OzarkHarleyGuy
Harley RoadKing Classic '07
21387
FZTerry
Posted 10/11/2006 7:07:49 AM
New Member
New MemberNew MemberNew MemberNew MemberNew MemberNew MemberNew
MemberNew Member
3/30/2007 11:03:54 AM
Posts: 72, Visits: 151
OHG I have experience with the Schuberth and the new Nolan N-102. I had
the Schuberth for 4 and a half years and was pleased with it. This was
the older version which isn't available now. Mine was expensive but the
new one was even worse. I love the idea of the flip down sun shield on
the inside though. My new Nolan seems to be lighter and has much less
buffeting. It fits much closer than the Schuberth. The exterior sun
shield is OK but when flipped up out of the way at highway speed does
make a low whistling noise. Nothing too annoying but there. It is easily
removeable though (maybe a little too easy! Almost poppedf it off while
riding once!). Still a very good lid. My buddy has a Caiberg Justissimo
and is happy with it. Has a flip down sunscreen on the inside too. Can
be hard to find locally but is sold through Riderwearhouse and usually
at the big shows. Schuberth is usually available at high end BMW
dealers. The Nolan is also in Riderwearhouse. I got mine at Americade.
Terry F
2005 FZ-1, Silver
AMA#526406
Concours Owners Group#792
ROK#80007477
21388
Ki
Posted 11/6/2006 5:32:21 AM
.
Starting Member
11/26/2006 7:39:26 AM
Posts: 16, Visits: 66
imotorcycle.com has an overstock of Nolan N102s listed on ebay for
$210US and I think you can even make offers.
http://stores.ebay.com/iMotorcycle-Store
Size and colours are limited as they've been flogging them for a few
weeks now so you may have to pay $230 (still the best price out there)
through their normal ordering process.
Comment on sizing: Depending on the shape of your head it may feel
loose, tight or just right from the cheek bones down. The sizing chart
is accurate for the measurement around the eyebrow+1" line but I heard
from a guy with a pear-shaped head say it squished his lower face. I
have what I assume is an upside down pear-shaped head as I find it
almost too roomy from the cheek bones down. It doesn't flop but I can
chew bubble gum, sing to myself, yawn and clearly annunciate obscenities
at deserving motorists.
______________
Toy Motorcycle - Playground - Zooom
21668
dragonmaster
Posted 11/6/2006 7:37:08 AM
.
. . . . . . . .
5/2/2007 6:25:38 PM
Posts: 184, Visits: 286
I've had the Nolan for several years and really like the fit (XXL, yes I
do have a fat heat) and comfort. My only complaint is the noise, but
that seems to be a constant with the modular helmets and I wear earplugs
when I'm going to be on the bike for more than 10 minutes anyway.
Trying to find one to try on locally was a complete bust; nobody carries
a decent selection of brands or sizes here in the Philadelphia area ( I
can imagine what Arkansas must be like.). I went to the winter bike show
in DC to try them all on and liked the Nolan best of all regardless of
price. They had to order it (plain white, go figure) and I received it
within a week. Plus it was a kick seeing guys wearing kilts in 18 degree
weather.
When I replaced it, I was able to order on line because I knew what size
to get.
Last winter I went to the NY show and bought the sunvisor for it which I
also recommend.
The Nolan was top-rated by MCN which means that SRG should buy something
else.
I'm looking to buy a couple new helmets to use for touring with
intercoms. I would appreciate some feedback on what works. I've always
had a problem with fogging on fullfaces (must something about being full
of hot air). But i like the warmth. Thanks.
Don't do nothing dumb!
Melita, MI
24579
redscoot
Posted 3/20/2007 6:47:35 AM
Average Member
Average . . . .
. . . Member
Today @ 10:33:53 AM
Posts: 548, Visits: 1,446
Arai helmets had the highest J.D. Power and Associates user satisfaction
rating for the 8th consecutive year.
Edited to say: On page 46 of the April issue of MCN, you'll find a very
favorable review of the Scorpian EXO-700 helmet, and, at $199, the price
is about half, or less, than that of an Arai.
The Scorpian brand scored second to the Aria in the J.D. Power user
satisfaction survey -- very impressive given the price difference.
One advantage of the Arai is that various head shapes are offered, e.g.,
oval, intermediate, and long oval, in addition to the usual sizing.
Should you have any interst in beanie helmets and/or doo-rags, please
consult with........uh, on second thought, nevermind. [Tongue]
Curt
'03 VFR
24580
SRG
Posted 3/20/2007 9:36:20 AM
Average Member
Average . . . .
. . . Member
2 days ago @ 11:22:48 PM
Posts: 945, Visits: 684
Arai helmets had the highest J.D. Power and Associates user satisfaction
rating for the 8th consecutive year.
I find J.D. Power's useless. My best suggestion is to walk into a store
or dealership that has a very healthy helmet selection and try out
several. You need to find one that fits your head not only safetly but
comfortably. There are so many head shapes and sizes that trying on
helmets is a must IMO. Otherwise, it's like buying cloths without ever
trying them on. You end up with some poorly fitting stuff.
24587
If you are looking at Arai look for them at bike shows. Their factory
reps are the best at fitting to your head. They will take all kinds of
measurements and recommend a model that will best fit you.
Torqueman
Battle Creek, MI
V-Strom 06
Goldwing 03
24611
Nomad17
Posted 3/22/2007 8:59:54 AM
Average Member
Average . . . .
. . . Member
Today @ 8:16:24 AM
Posts: 568, Visits: 1,344
Yes very good points you must try helmets on to get the right fit don't
just order them online. You don't want it to big where it will be moving
around on you.Or to tight. Some of the middle class price helmets have
the same stuff as the very over price helmets. Just don't buy the
cheapest. I Have both an open face helmet with shield that I used almost
all the time with shield up. And I have a nice full face helment for
long trips.
Nomad17
24650
Gfurlo
Posted 3/23/2007 5:24:39 AM
.
. . . . . . . .
2 days ago @ 3:53:06 PM
Posts: 410, Visits: 192
I have never owned an Arai, I am to cheap!
They do have some slick vent holes built into the face shield, of course
this makes the shields more expensive to replace. I've seen pricing from
45 to 75 dollars depending on where you buy.
Shoei has a little lever that helps keep the visor open just a little,
but once again their shields go for 40 to 50 dollars.
I have a KBC, the face shield can be opened an 1/8 of an inch and a 1/4
inch to help remove the fog. The 1/8 detent will stay that way even at
highway speed, and the shields cost 18 to 24 dollars, once again
depending where you purchase them.
Gfurlo
24675
Nomad17
Posted 3/23/2007 8:40:39 AM
Average Member
Average . . . .
. . . Member
Today @ 8:16:24 AM
Posts: 568, Visits: 1,344
Gfurlo hey what did I just say don't buy the cheapest helmelt. And there
you go bottom shopping Blue light special. [Cry]
Nomad17
24682
DragonRider50
Posted 5/1/2007 8:45:44 AM
.
Starting Member
5/1/2007 8:22:53 AM
Posts: 1, Visits: 1
I've never posted on any forums anywhere, but when I read you question,
I was motivated to register and reply.
First, let me say that I have been riding for more than thirty years and
have riden way more bikes that most wouldn't even know about. Second, I
have riden in many different places, some I wouldn't admit to for legal
reasons. Third, I have walked (limped) away from a serious accident in
which I should have died. I survived because of my full face helmet. The
shield was shredded, instead of my face and jaw, and the bike was
totaled after jumping a curb at 70+ mph. Long story that doesn't warrent
repeating. Chalk it up to stupidity and bad judgement of youth.
In any case, my full face helmet saved my life and is almost always on
my head when I ride. Even when I have managed to convince myself that a
short trip without it won't matter, I feel "guilty" without it.
All that aside, I have researched this alot because of my affinity
toward helmets and have found the best recommendations for fog free
operation represented by Scorpion Helmets. Best prices too!
Unfortunately, I don't have a Scorpion dealer near me. So, I contacted
Scorpion directly and they assured me that they would "work with me" to
secure a helmet that I would be satisfied with. Being skeptical, I
haven't jumped at their offer, but I intend to buy a Scorpion helmet
when I find a dealer as I tour/ride/travel and hope to find one soon. I
am currently wearing a Harley Davidson helmet that fits good and wears
well, but is due for replacement, so...
Ride safe! Dress for the slide, not for the ride...
rode hard and put up wet!
25668
Godzilla
Posted 5/1/2007 1:13:56 PM
.
. . . . . . . .
2 days ago @ 9:35:03 AM
Posts: 276, Visits: 330
I use the Fog City Pro anti-fogging insert on inside of my HJC
faceshield. It works great! However, it does distort your vision a
little and at night it produces an odd almost double vision for oncoming
headlights of other vehicles. I can't describe exactly what I mean, but
it annoys some riders. To me that is minor and beats the snot right out
of fogging up in cool or wet weather.
The Fog City Pro costs about $30.
One bit of warning, be careful how you clean it. For some reason that I
don't quite recall, I needed to wipe off the FCP and used my glove. I
scratched it really badly and ruined it. I had to replace the faceshield
because the FCP wouldn't come off.
Welcome to the forum DragonRider50. Glade you came out of lurking to
post. It can be very addictive. I guess I need to check into the
Scorpion helmets my self. I have been wanting to update my old Noland.
melitatrol:
Another thing to look at besides the helmet is the cost of replacement
shields. I usually get a dark shield as well as the clear that comes
with the helmet. The cost of replacement shields of some of the brands
will absolutely CROSS YOUR EYES! I look for ease of shield changes---I
have a brand that uses a knob on each end of the helmet that is twisted
and the shield pops off--quick change feature.
25695
TonUp
Posted 5/3/2007 2:26:49 AM
.
Starting Member
5/6/2007 4:46:09 PM
Posts: 2, Visits: 3
I was lurking hear at the MCN site and came across this post, figured I
would give my 2 cents. I've been known to do that from time to time.
Anyway I ride more then 90% of the peeps out there and currently have
two different helmets. One is an Arai and one is a Scorpion EXO400. I'm
right now test piloting a Shoei Multi-tec for work. Anyway you cannot go
wrong with either the Arai or the Scorpion, both are great helmets,
depends how deep the pockets are. Bang for the buck is definetely the
Scorpion. Having used numerous helmets and having a few now I can
honestly tell you that the Scorpion is my favorite, it is comfortable,
the shield never fogs, the shields are easily changed and it is one of
the more quiet helmets I've had and for under $200 you can't beat that.
Ventilation is fair but they say the 700 model is better. It looks
pretty good too. Now as for the Arai, well they are a bit spending but
you do get what you pay for, it is an excellent helmet but I wouldn't
spit on the Scorpion, I think it is just as good for about 1/2 the
price. Goodluck in your search and for whoever was looking to buy a
Scorpion, you might want to check out HelmetHarbor.com Standup guys and
should be able to help you with a Scorpion or any other helmet you might
want........
TonUp
25700
melitatroll
Posted Yesterday @ 8:52:00 PM
.
Starting Member
Yesterday @ 10:23:19 PM
Posts: 25, Visits: 46
Couldn't afford the Arai. Haven't found a Scorpion to try on, but I did
see that Iron Pony has them in their catalog. But, i managed to find a
few different helmets in my area to try and I bought a pair of H-D
branded helmets. They were priced ok and the fit was good for me and my
wife. HJC makes them for Harley. I've worn it now for about 1200 miles
and haven't got any complaints. The only fogging i've noticed is real
slight and usually only when stopped and is instantly cured with
cracking it slightly open.
drummer I have not tried or bought any thing from Held. You did not say
if you are looking to buy a jacke or pants.
I like First gear stuff and Tour Master and Cortech. I plan to add this
fall Gerbings heated stuff.I also like motorcycle riding jeans. 4 pairs
of them.
Hey has any body tried or bought Bohn's armor motorcycle pants.
I have not tried either of the ones you mentioned. I do like my Joe
Rocket mesh stuff better than my First Gear mesh stuff for what it is
worth.
Torqueman
Battle Creek, MI
V-Strom 06
Goldwing 03
24386
Grunbay
Posted 3/15/2007 2:56:30 PM
.
Starting Member
3/15/2007 7:25:53 PM
Posts: 5, Visits: 5
My wife and I both use the motoport kevlar mesh jackets. I also use the
kevlar mesh over pants. My wife has the motoport kevlar jeans.
My wife immediately pulled most of the armor out of her's - what can one
do? They make her "look like a robot."
I left my armor panels in and I really like this clothing. A couple of
the snaps fell apart, but I just re-set them with a punch.
We rode across Italy in late July, and the ventilation on these is
fantastic.
The kevlar has a significant safety advantage over most other fabrics,
and even over leather by some measures. You should look over their
website. I would buy from them again.
24388
rnielsen
Posted 3/15/2007 6:45:19 PM
.
. . . . . . . .
2 days ago @ 6:56:31 AM
Posts: 219, Visits: 95
Being a big guy at 350 lb. I have a problem finding motorcycling clothes
that fit. My best luck has been with First Gear, I use a V-Bomber
leather jacket with removeable liner and vents and a Mesh-Tech
ventilated jacket when it's really hot. Both are available in sizes up
to 4XL, which fits me well.
For raingear I've found Cabela's offers large sizes using Gore-Tex that
work well and aren't too costly. I have bib overall style rain pants
that have large zipped leg openings that allow them to be put on over
boots fairly easily. For a jacket I found a police outer jacket, made by
Columbia, again with Gore-Tex that has a hood in the collar. It works
well for rainy days and keeps the water from running down my neck. None
of these store particularly small however, to that's a continuous
problem.
I recently tried a Tour Master Sentinel jacket and pants to see if their
largest size (4XL) would fit. It didn't, being a couple of sizes
smaller, probably because its Chinese in manufacture.
If you require very small or very large sizes in rain gear check out
Cabela's. Their web site should be easy to find with a search.
Ray Nielsen, in Minneapolis and riding again, even if sporadically.
24398
Grunbay
Posted 3/15/2007 7:27:53 PM
.
Starting Member
3/15/2007 7:25:53 PM
Posts: 5, Visits: 5
I forgot to mention that all of the Motosport kevlar suits are custom
made to order, so a bigger fella would be able to get one that fits
perfectly!
Mine did.
24399
drummer
Posted 3/16/2007 4:36:15 AM
.
. . . . . . . .
2 days ago @ 6:02:11 PM
Posts: 329, Visits: 136
Thanks for all of the replies - I am always looking for good gear and
was really curious about these two. The price point of the Held and what
seems to be craftsmanship is amazing to me. As to the Motorsport, I find
their stuff as durable as Aerostich (according to the specs) and in the
same price point.
rnielsen - You had sent me some info on gear last spring and I wanted to
thank you. I am probably going to get the A-stich summer gear but was
looking into some thing cheaper for the Z-woman and since she doesn't
ride much, I wanted good but less expensive.
The "Z" MAN
1995 BMW R1100R
24406
Nomad17
Posted 3/16/2007 11:08:21 AM
Average Member
Average . . . .
. . . Member
Today @ 8:16:24 AM
Posts: 568, Visits: 1,344
Grunbay, I did go to the cycle port site nice stuff a little high but
very nice. You paid alot for your stuff and your wife's and let me get
this straight she pulled all the pads out. That is not safe. If you knew
she was going to do that you could of just bought here a cheaper jacket.
Put those pads back in her jacket and pants.
Torq, you said you like the Joe Rocket stuff. The jackets or pants or
both. I was looking at some of their pants. Kind of like the Ballistic's
5.0 pants.
I also have motorcycle jeans. Have two pairs of the Gusset defender
pants love them one draggin utility pants nice one Icon pair very comfy
but short in legs. and most comfy is my Kevlar sliders Khakis pants. and
my tour master caliber pants which I love. and for winter only even
though they can be used year round but for me only in winter my
firstgear HT overpants love them.
Nomad17
24429
ST-TLW
Posted 3/16/2007 12:43:02 PM
.
. . . . . . . .
Today @ 9:29:11 AM
Posts: 130, Visits: 212
For summer pants I've found the FirstGear Air to be the most comfortable
pants I've ever owned. My wife and I spent 3 weeks last summer on the
road and if they weren't comfortable, I would have heard about it.
[Cool]
24434
Nomad17
Posted 3/17/2007 9:41:15 AM
Average Member
Average . . . .
. . . Member
Today @ 8:16:24 AM
Posts: 568, Visits: 1,344
I was thinking about the first gear air pants if they are comfy. But in
summer when traveling I just take the liner out of my Caliber pants. I
also want to try the Joe Rocket ballistic pants. I am going to ride down
in a few weeks to the Iron pony in Columbus, Ohio nice big store. It is
nice that I can try stuff on before I buy. It is a pain when order off
line and have to ship back. been there done that. I am glad that we have
a huge store not far away that I can do that. Hey ST-TLW so you and you
wife likes the air pants by first gear. I always say you can never have
enough gear or pants.
I'm looking to buy a couple new helmets to use for touring with
intercoms. I would appreciate some feedback on what works. I've always
had a problem with fogging on fullfaces (must something about being full
of hot air). But i like the warmth. Thanks.
Don't do nothing dumb!
Melita, MI
24579
redscoot
Posted 3/20/2007 6:47:35 AM
Average Member
Average . . . .
. . . Member
Today @ 10:33:53 AM
Posts: 548, Visits: 1,446
Arai helmets had the highest J.D. Power and Associates user satisfaction
rating for the 8th consecutive year.
Edited to say: On page 46 of the April issue of MCN, you'll find a very
favorable review of the Scorpian EXO-700 helmet, and, at $199, the price
is about half, or less, than that of an Arai.
The Scorpian brand scored second to the Aria in the J.D. Power user
satisfaction survey -- very impressive given the price difference.
One advantage of the Arai is that various head shapes are offered, e.g.,
oval, intermediate, and long oval, in addition to the usual sizing.
Should you have any interst in beanie helmets and/or doo-rags, please
consult with........uh, on second thought, nevermind. [Tongue]
Curt
'03 VFR
24580
SRG
Posted 3/20/2007 9:36:20 AM
Average Member
Average . . . .
. . . Member
2 days ago @ 11:22:48 PM
Posts: 945, Visits: 684
Arai helmets had the highest J.D. Power and Associates user satisfaction
rating for the 8th consecutive year.
I find J.D. Power's useless. My best suggestion is to walk into a store
or dealership that has a very healthy helmet selection and try out
several. You need to find one that fits your head not only safetly but
comfortably. There are so many head shapes and sizes that trying on
helmets is a must IMO. Otherwise, it's like buying cloths without ever
trying them on. You end up with some poorly fitting stuff.
24587
If you are looking at Arai look for them at bike shows. Their factory
reps are the best at fitting to your head. They will take all kinds of
measurements and recommend a model that will best fit you.
Torqueman
Battle Creek, MI
V-Strom 06
Goldwing 03
24611
Nomad17
Posted 3/22/2007 8:59:54 AM
Average Member
Average . . . .
. . . Member
Today @ 8:16:24 AM
Posts: 568, Visits: 1,344
Yes very good points you must try helmets on to get the right fit don't
just order them online. You don't want it to big where it will be moving
around on you.Or to tight. Some of the middle class price helmets have
the same stuff as the very over price helmets. Just don't buy the
cheapest. I Have both an open face helmet with shield that I used almost
all the time with shield up. And I have a nice full face helment for
long trips.
Nomad17
24650
Gfurlo
Posted 3/23/2007 5:24:39 AM
.
. . . . . . . .
2 days ago @ 3:53:06 PM
Posts: 410, Visits: 192
I have never owned an Arai, I am to cheap!
They do have some slick vent holes built into the face shield, of course
this makes the shields more expensive to replace. I've seen pricing from
45 to 75 dollars depending on where you buy.
Shoei has a little lever that helps keep the visor open just a little,
but once again their shields go for 40 to 50 dollars.
I have a KBC, the face shield can be opened an 1/8 of an inch and a 1/4
inch to help remove the fog. The 1/8 detent will stay that way even at
highway speed, and the shields cost 18 to 24 dollars, once again
depending where you purchase them.
Gfurlo
24675
Nomad17
Posted 3/23/2007 8:40:39 AM
Average Member
Average . . . .
. . . Member
Today @ 8:16:24 AM
Posts: 568, Visits: 1,344
Gfurlo hey what did I just say don't buy the cheapest helmelt. And there
you go bottom shopping Blue light special. [Cry]
Nomad17
24682
DragonRider50
Posted 5/1/2007 8:45:44 AM
.
Starting Member
5/1/2007 8:22:53 AM
Posts: 1, Visits: 1
I've never posted on any forums anywhere, but when I read you question,
I was motivated to register and reply.
First, let me say that I have been riding for more than thirty years and
have riden way more bikes that most wouldn't even know about. Second, I
have riden in many different places, some I wouldn't admit to for legal
reasons. Third, I have walked (limped) away from a serious accident in
which I should have died. I survived because of my full face helmet. The
shield was shredded, instead of my face and jaw, and the bike was
totaled after jumping a curb at 70+ mph. Long story that doesn't warrent
repeating. Chalk it up to stupidity and bad judgement of youth.
In any case, my full face helmet saved my life and is almost always on
my head when I ride. Even when I have managed to convince myself that a
short trip without it won't matter, I feel "guilty" without it.
All that aside, I have researched this alot because of my affinity
toward helmets and have found the best recommendations for fog free
operation represented by Scorpion Helmets. Best prices too!
Unfortunately, I don't have a Scorpion dealer near me. So, I contacted
Scorpion directly and they assured me that they would "work with me" to
secure a helmet that I would be satisfied with. Being skeptical, I
haven't jumped at their offer, but I intend to buy a Scorpion helmet
when I find a dealer as I tour/ride/travel and hope to find one soon. I
am currently wearing a Harley Davidson helmet that fits good and wears
well, but is due for replacement, so...
Ride safe! Dress for the slide, not for the ride...
rode hard and put up wet!
25668
Godzilla
Posted 5/1/2007 1:13:56 PM
.
. . . . . . . .
2 days ago @ 9:35:03 AM
Posts: 276, Visits: 330
I use the Fog City Pro anti-fogging insert on inside of my HJC
faceshield. It works great! However, it does distort your vision a
little and at night it produces an odd almost double vision for oncoming
headlights of other vehicles. I can't describe exactly what I mean, but
it annoys some riders. To me that is minor and beats the snot right out
of fogging up in cool or wet weather.
The Fog City Pro costs about $30.
One bit of warning, be careful how you clean it. For some reason that I
don't quite recall, I needed to wipe off the FCP and used my glove. I
scratched it really badly and ruined it. I had to replace the faceshield
because the FCP wouldn't come off.
Welcome to the forum DragonRider50. Glade you came out of lurking to
post. It can be very addictive. I guess I need to check into the
Scorpion helmets my self. I have been wanting to update my old Noland.
Another thing to look at besides the helmet is the cost of
replacement shields. I usually get a dark shield as well as the clear
that comes with the helmet. The cost of replacement shields of some of
the brands will absolutely CROSS YOUR EYES! I look for ease of shield
changes---I have a brand that uses a knob on each end of the helmet that
is twisted and the shield pops off--quick change feature.
25695
TonUp
Posted 5/3/2007 2:26:49 AM
.
Starting Member
5/6/2007 4:46:09 PM
Posts: 2, Visits: 3
I was lurking hear at the MCN site and came across this post, figured I
would give my 2 cents. I've been known to do that from time to time.
Anyway I ride more then 90% of the peeps out there and currently have
two different helmets. One is an Arai and one is a Scorpion EXO400. I'm
right now test piloting a Shoei Multi-tec for work. Anyway you cannot go
wrong with either the Arai or the Scorpion, both are great helmets,
depends how deep the pockets are. Bang for the buck is definetely the
Scorpion. Having used numerous helmets and having a few now I can
honestly tell you that the Scorpion is my favorite, it is comfortable,
the shield never fogs, the shields are easily changed and it is one of
the more quiet helmets I've had and for under $200 you can't beat that.
Ventilation is fair but they say the 700 model is better. It looks
pretty good too. Now as for the Arai, well they are a bit spending but
you do get what you pay for, it is an excellent helmet but I wouldn't
spit on the Scorpion, I think it is just as good for about 1/2 the
price. Goodluck in your search and for whoever was looking to buy a
Scorpion, you might want to check out HelmetHarbor.com Standup guys and
should be able to help you with a Scorpion or any other helmet you might
want........
TonUp
25700
melitatroll
Posted Yesterday @ 8:52:00 PM
.
Starting Member
Yesterday @ 10:23:19 PM
Posts: 25, Visits: 46
Couldn't afford the Arai. Haven't found a Scorpion to try on, but I did
see that Iron Pony has them in their catalog. But, i managed to find a
few different helmets in my area to try and I bought a pair of H-D
branded helmets. They were priced ok and the fit was good for me and my
wife. HJC makes them for Harley. I've worn it now for about 1200 miles
and haven't got any complaints. The only fogging i've noticed is real
slight and usually only when stopped and is instantly cured with
cracking it slightly open.
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