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Shoei's J-Wing open face helmet
April 3, 2009
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| Editor Ratings * | |||
| Quality |
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10 | |
| Style |
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10 | |
| Comfort |
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10 | |
| Portability |
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10 | |
| Convenience |
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10 | |
| Price |
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9 | |
| Value |
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10 | |
| Overall | 9.9 | ||
| Spectacular | |||
| A product that receives a rating in this range scores high on all of its rating criteria. It succeeds at meeting all of its intended users' needs and has no meaningful drawbacks. | |||
| *Out of a possible 10 points | |||
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This helmet is identified by Shoei as: Item RF 1000, Model J-Wing. It is a shiny black open face, or three-quarter helmet, with gray interior and weighs in at approximately 3.25 lbs. Utilizing Shoei’s sizing chart found at http://www.shoei-helmets.com, I ordered a medium (57-58 cm), helmet. The fit is snug, perhaps a little more than expected, and I was a little anxious about comfort over a long period of time.
It turns out that the J-Wing is a very comfortable helmet. The combination of outer shell {characterized by three main aspects: (1) a shaping process involving a fiber-reinforced layered matrix, (2) the molecular structure of a resin, and (3) a composite structure that provides an ideal level of impact absorption, sufficient elasticity, light weight and a high degree of rigidity}, impact absorbing liner {located on the inside of the shell made of lightweight and highly impact absorbing EPS (expanded polystyrene)}, and inner liner provides a snug fit yet does not create a tightening sensation through extended use. This is a good thing!
Having now worn the helmet for 13,000+ miles in all kinds of weather conditions, I find the helmet to be cooler -vents open- when the temperature is hot, warmer -vents closed- when the temperature is cool, and almost totally dry -vents closed- while riding in rain.
When the ambient temperature for motorcycling is perfect, well, the J-Wing is very comfortable then too!
This helmet was provided for this review by Riders Discount at http://www.ridersdiscount.com. See more about Riders Discount later in this review.
The J-Wing is available in sizes XXS-XXL and the following colors: anthracite, black, matte black, light silver, pearl grey, white, and wine red.
First Impression…
The J-Wing looks nice. It provides a feeling of safety and command of the elements for which it was designed; i.e. to protect motorcyclists from significant impact in case of accident. The style, shape, weight, and feel of the J-Wing suggest this is not just any helmet.
Shoei’s reputation as first class helmet manufacturer, with hands on manufacturing processes, is reflected in the aerodynamic design and quality product. State-of-the-art, high tech protection combines with open-air freedom for a safe and exhilarating riding experience.
Features…
· Lightweight, AIM+ (Advanced Integrated Matrix Plus Multi-Fiber) shell: Shoei’s proprietary AIM+ technology is a process that combines fiberglass with organic fibers that can only be cut with a laser. The end result is a stronger, lighter shell that will absorb and distribute the force of an impact safely and efficiently.
· CJ-1 Shield that is easily removable and secured by a pre-set lever to prevent unexpected opening.
· Shield stopper.
· Shell integrated spoiler.
· Snell M2005 approved. Helmets meeting Snell Standards provide the highest level of protection available. According to Snell Memorial Foundation, Snell Standards significantly surpass those set by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), the American Society of Testing Materials (ASTM) and the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission's 16 CFR Part 1203.
· Five year warranty from purchase date. Seven year warranty from helmet manufacture date. Whichever comes first.
· Quick Release Base Plate System includes a locking mechanism that allows you to change shield from clear to tint quickly.
· Cheek pad slits for eyeglasses: a nice feature for riders requiring eyewear options.
· 3D removable and washable comfort liner system.
· Five layer construction in cheek pad.
· Padded chin strap.
· Adjustable top & rear exhaust vents: Easily opened and closed with a gloved hand the rear vents allow hot moist air to exhaust as it rises in the J-WING. The laminar air flow over the helmet increases this effect when vents are opened.
· Front Intake: When the temperature heats up, the easily operated front vents let in a breath of fresh air, traveling through the 3D liner and channeled out the dual EPS liner.
· Neck Outlet: The neck vent draws air completely through the dual EPS and removable 3D liner keeping the entire helmet both cooler and drier, exhausting hot moisture laden air.
Operation/Application…
Put it on, connect the chinstrap, adjust the shield, and you are ready to ride. Shoei sends along a pamphlet titled: How to Use Your Helmet Properly. The pamphlet addresses: determining proper fit, putting the helmet on, checking the retention system, and cleaning your helmet.
Helmets are designed to help absorb one impact, including dropping the helmet. After your helmet has protected you from an impact or absorbed one impact, you must get a new one. Also, the helmet industry recommends helmets be replaced, impacted or not, at least every three to five years.
Ultimately, the useful service life of a safety helmet is dependent on the intensity and frequency of its use. In addition to absorbing an impact, helmet replacement is recommended even if only one of the under-mentioned points applies:
· The comfort padding or the retention system has become loose due to heavy use or display signs of deterioration.
· The synthetic foam padding displays signs of heavy use and the helmet feels too loose. Test: with the retention system fastened, the helmet turns to the side when you gently shake your head.
· There are indentations in the EPS liner and/or white scratches can be seen on surfaces with black paint.
Value…
The Shoei J-Wing helmet is an excellent helmet. Most of all, the helmet is comfortable and has the look and feel of quality. Combine this with substantial literature at www.shoei.com documenting the manufacturing and testing processes used by Shoei, and motorcycle riders can feel safe with a Shoei helmet.
Shoei claims to enjoy 53.9% of the world market and states its brand is known to all riders of the world as a symbol of high quality and safety.
Shoei’s J-Wing helmet is covered under warranty for five years from purchase date or seven years from the date of manufacture, whichever comes first. The warranty covers all manufacturing defects. Please note that damage caused by the consumer, (i.e. dropping the helmet), etc., is not covered under warranty.
In addition, Shoei offers a free impact inspection service for any Shoei helmet. To have your helmet inspected, send it to; Attn: Inspections, Shoei Helmets, 3002 Dow Ave, Ste 128, Tustin, Ca 92780.
Be sure to include a letter with a brief description of the issue with the helmet, as well as a daytime phone number and return address. Once the helmet is received, it will take 1-3 business days to complete the inspection. Upon completion the helmet is returned to you with a letter stating the findings of the inspection. Your helmet is returned to you whether it passes the inspection or not. There is no charge for the inspection, and the UPS Ground return shipping is free.
Motorcycle riders will want the best price. As of the publishing date of this review, Riders Discount retails the J-Wing for $331.19.
Final thoughts…
The Shoei J-Wing helmet is manufactured and tested against the highest industry standards to protect motorcycle riders. It also looks good, and most importantly, it is comfortable so you are more inclined to use it.
Cost is relative when considering what is at stake; i.e, rider safety. The price is reasonable for this helmet due to quality of design and manufacture, and Shoei’s warranty program.
About Ridersdiscount.com…
Ridersdiscount.com is dedicated to providing the best online shopping experience when looking for powersports parts, apparel, and accessories. Ridersdiscount.com guarantees secured ordering, quick & reliable shipping, professional customer service, a wide selection of high quality products, and the lowest prices online.
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