Flip-up Helmets | GTAMotorcycle.com

Flip-up Helmets

jonpurdy

jonpurdy

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I was thinking of selling my six month old Shoei QWEST and replacing it with a flip-up helmet. Not sure how much I'd like to spend but I was looking at the SHOEI flip-ups for about $400-500 and the BMW System 6 for ~$900.

The flip-ups are couldn't possibly be as safe in a crash as a regular full-face, but are they much less safe? Apparently there aren't any SNELL-certified flip-ups.

Any comments on cheaper helmets, like the Bell ones for ~$250?
 
Shark Evoline. As far as I know it's the only flip up with all metal chinabr locking system, and it's the only flip up that passes Snell and DOT with the chinbar in the up position as well.

10_HE9060EKAR_Evoline_Absolute.jpg
 
The new nolan N104 is apparently pretty awesome - well worth checking out.

I'm going to pick one up in the spring the next time I'm riding in the states.
 
How are the ear pockets on flip-ups? I don't mind wearing a FF, but most designs seem determined to squash my ears flat. It gets annoying after a while.
 
SunnY S said:
Curious. For what reason do you want to change to a flip up?
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Having a drink is easier...pumping gas, having a drink, get on bike and go all without taking the lid off. Kissing the wife goodbye is also easier if that helps.
 
Flywheel said:
How are the ear pockets on flip-ups? I don't mind wearing a FF, but most designs seem determined to squash my ears flat. It gets annoying after a while.
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The Shark fits tighter in fullface mode than in flipped up mode but getting the helmet on and off is a lot easier than other helmets.
 
SunnY S said:
Curious. For what reason do you want to change to a flip up?
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It's a pain taking the helmet off for photographs with my SLR. Plus it'll be nice to flip it up while having a pee, chatting (not at the same time), eating a granola bar, etc.


OpenGambit said:
So he can show off his purdy face.
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I've never heard that one before… I guess that's what I get for using my real name as my username :)


I'm going to have a look at the Shark one as well. Thanks all for the advice!
 
I also have the evoline. It's nice, but a bit noisier than my regular full-face, especially at highway speed with it up. Usually I put it down if I get stopped at a red light near the highway, but on some really warm days I forgot, and it's difficult to do while riding. You have to pull over to do it properly.
 
I picked up a Shark Evoline last month, I love it. Like others I flip it up when I am pumping gas, adding air to the tires etc. It is a bit noisier than my full-face HJC, but with ear plugs not much of a difference.

There is a motorcycle store in Long Beach (Extreme Supply), that sells current stuff from stores that have gone under. The Evoline's were going for $200 - sweet deal. Don't know if they have any left, but I can check if you are in the market for one.

FYI the Orange County Sheriff's Dep't switched to Evoline's last year, I checked it out on the recommendation of a Deputy. He commented how much better they are compared to previous modular helmets they used.
 
+1 for the Evoline. I love it! Comfy, fits my head, and great to ride open around the city on hot days. It has recesses for glasses & ear pocket speakers.

I just checked their web site, they have a series 3 which is supposed to be lighter.
 
I tried on the Shoei and the Shark and I found the Shoei fit my head much better (I have a weird head, though I guess most people do, heh). Plus I got the Shoei in white to match my bike.

What a difference the flip-up makes. I only took my helmet off once for lunch during the six-hour ride yesterday.

Are flip-up helmets okay for track days? I wonder because I'll just keep my old one if they're not.
 
I've got the system 6. Its awesome. Quiet, lightweight, love the inner tinted visor, never had it fog. Super happy with it and the sizing is the best I've had. Only downside with flip ups is if you want a comm unit. Most clip on the bottom right were the helmet flips. Makes it pretty much impossible unless you do some frankenwiring.
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