‘I’m a Storm Trooper…’
Tested by Ali Silcox for five months/2000 miles
I’m definitely a fan of the flip-up style lid. They’re practical on touring trips, particularly on a recent trip to France, where going through passport control I had to show my beaming fizzog in its entirety.
I’m usually quite reserved with my helmet styles, but this caught my eye and I felt I had to try it. I’m not entirely sure the Storm Trooper-esque lid is aimed at a grey haired, 50-something rider but to be honest, I think it looks rather cool.
I’ve worn various HJC flip-up lids over the years and, like others in the range, I’ve had to go up a size to get the helmet to fit properly. It’s not the most comfortable HJC I’ve worn and I find on longer rides, of say an hour and a half or more, I start to get a little fidgety.
With a polycarbonate shell and rated ECE 22.05, the lid has an integral drop-down sun-visor, that’s easy to operate, via a large knob that’s positioned perfectly. The lining is plush and hasn’t caused any irritation to my face. I’ve used it during some of the hottest days of the year and after numerous sweaty rides, it’s still as plump and comfortable as it was on the first wear.
The Storm Trooper appearance is credited to the large, hexagonal shaped vent on the chin bar, this combined with one large vent on the forehead, ensures there’s plenty of airflow. At 1800g it’s a heavy lid, although it’s not caused any undue aches and pains when riding but is noticeable compared to other models.
Quality ★★★★★
Value ★★★★★ www.oxfordproducts.com