Comparison Nolan N70-2 X vs HJC I70

The type determines the overall design of the helmet, the features of its application and the level of protection.

— Integral. Fully enclosed helmets, also known as full face. The shell in such models covers almost the entire head, leaving only a window for the eyes, covered with glass (visor). This provides a good level of protection; in addition, the integrals have a streamlined aerodynamic shape, which is why they are considered the best choice for riding high-speed sportbikes (although they can be used for other purposes). Due to this, this variety is by far the most popular, it is found both in everyday driving and in professional competitions. The main disadvantage of integrals is that the face is constantly covered: for example, to drink water at a bus stop, chat with a fellow traveler or seller, etc. — Helmet has to be removed entirely. In addition, such models are not well suited for driving with intense physical exertion, accompanied by frequent breathing.

— Open. The most popular type of open models is the so-called 3/4 helmets, in which the shell covers the entire (or almost the entire) head, but leaves the face open. Most of these products also have a transparent folding glass, designed to protect the face from wind, dust and small debris, but do not provide protection from impacts; but there are models without glass. A visor may also be provided. 3/4 helmets are m...ore comfortable in everyday use than integral ones, they do not need to be removed while eating, drinking, talking, etc. On the other hand, their degree of protection is also noticeably lower, especially considering that it is the face that often suffers in motorcycle accidents. Therefore, open helmets are considered suitable only for relatively low speeds; in particular, they are appreciated by the owners of motor scooters. An even lower degree of protection is distinguished by the so-called Helmets (Braincap) — helmets that cover only the upper half of the head. Such products can avoid a fine for not wearing motorcycle equipment and can be used as fashion accessories, but they are not able to effectively prevent injuries in a serious incident.

— Modular. This variety is also known as flip up. It is a kind of compromise between the integrals described above and open helmets. In the working position, the "modular" is practically indistinguishable from full face — it completely covers the head, with the exception of the window at eye level. The difference lies in the fact that the protection for the jaw in such models is made folding or removable — that is, it is possible to open the face without removing the helmet. This provides a combination of good protection, typical for closed models, with the convenience of open helmets. However the level of protection for modular products is still somewhat lower than for integrals — due to the presence of moving parts of the shell. In addition, they are noticeably more expensive and somewhat heavier.

— Cross. Specialized helmets designed primarily for cross-country racing, but also popular with stunt riders. Distinctive features of cross-country models are reinforced jaw protection in the form of a characteristic protruding “chin”, a rather long visor to protect against the sun and dirt, as well as the absence of glass – the helmet is supposed to be used with special motorcycle goggles. Thanks to all this, such models are very convenient with an abundance of dust and dirt, and the level of protection in them is quite high. Another important advantage of cross-country shoes is good ventilation (it is provided based on the athlete's intensive breathing). But the aerodynamics of such helmets is noticeably worse than that of the varieties described above; they are not designed for high-speed driving.

— Enduro. The term "enduro" refers to long, several days, cross-country races. Accordingly, helmets for such races can be described as a "tourist" version of the crosses described above. A distinctive feature of the enduro is that they do not need glasses — the helmet is equipped with a folding glass, as in integral models. Otherwise, cross-country and enduro (also called "super-moto") are so similar that in common parlance they are often not distinguished. And some models of this type even provide the possibility of removing the glass and using it “cross-country”, with glasses.

The sizes in which this helmet model is produced.

The appropriate helmet size depends primarily on the circumference of the wearer's head. The circumference is measured at the widest point of the head — usually at a level of 1 – 2 cm above the eyebrows and along the protrusion at the back of the head; more detailed recommendations and descriptions can be found in special sources. Here we note that although manufacturers use the same size designations — XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, etc. — specific sizes for different brands may vary slightly; for example, XL can fit both 60 – 61 cm and 61 – 62 cm. This seemingly small difference can significantly affect the comfort and safety of use. Therefore, when choosing, you need to be guided by the size tables of a particular manufacturer.

It is also worth considering that helmets with the same size designation may differ not only in actual size, but also in the shape of the internal space. Therefore, even compliance with the size table is not a guarantee that the product will be suitable; the most reliable way is to test the helmet "live" before buying.

The type of visor provided in the design of the helmet. The visor is a mandatory piece of equipment for cross-country and enduro helmets (see above). It is also often used in open models, and occasionally in modular ones.

The purpose of this part is additional protection from the bright sun, and in some cases also from flying dirt and small debris. The visor can be made removable and non-removable; the first option allows you to remove the visor if necessary (for example, for storage or to improve aerodynamics), the second is considered more durable and reliable, the visor can play the role of an additional element of impact protection.

Safety certification or certifications to which the helmet conforms. To date, the following types of certificates are found in motorcycle helmets:

—ECE 22.05. The European certification system, which provides for very strict requirements for safety testing among national and international standards (except that in the ACU the requirements can be even tougher). According to ECE 22.05, each batch of helmets must be tested before being sent for sale (for this, several test items are selected), and the testing itself is quite strict and takes into account the fact that motorcyclists' heads can have different sizes and weights. Helmets certified according to this standard are used even in professional motorsport (although, of course, products of different levels and purposes can pass certification).

— Snell. Also known as SMF. Standard developed and used in the USA; appeared in the mid-1950s, and has been regularly improved and refined since then. Snell's requirements are more relaxed than ECE 22.05, but tougher than DOT: products must undergo constant quality control, and the test takes into account the possible difference in head size (although it does not take into account the difference in weight).

— DOT. The standard was developed by the US Department of Transportation back in 1972 and has remained virtually unchanged since then. It provides for very mild conditions...for both the testing itself and the control of the results. So, the check is carried out only for the standard size and weight of the head, the manufacturer himself does this and he also determines whether his products comply with DOT requirements, and control by the Ministry of Transport is limited to periodic selective testing. However, even with this in mind, having a DOT is much preferable to no certification at all.

— ACU. A standard developed and maintained by the British Motorcycle Union (Auto-Cycle Union), a public organization representing the interests of the motorcycle community. Provides two main marking options — ACU Gold and ACU Silver; however, the second option is extremely rare for a number of reasons, and it is usually the top, “gold” marking that is used. In order to be ACU Gold certified, a helmet must not only meet certain generally accepted standards (described above by Snell 2005 or ECE 22.05, British BSI Type A, etc.), but also be tested according to ACU rules, which require additional checks. As a result, the ACU Gold marking corresponds to a very high level of safety. Note that some time ago this system was at the centre of a scandal: there were rumors that “ACU Gold” stickers are sold freely and can be found even on low-quality helmets that have not passed (and are not able to pass) an official test. However, the ACU organization has taken steps to correct the situation, and conscientious sellers do not go for such a deception. However, if you have any doubts, you can check from official sources (for example, the ACU website on the Internet) whether the selected helmet meets the safety level claimed for it.

The country of origin is usually considered as the country of origin of the brand — the "homeland" of the company that sells helmets. At the same time, the actual place of release may not coincide with the claimed country of origin, but this is not critical — the quality of the product is determined more by the reputation of the brand (and the thoroughness of quality control) than by the country of actual production.