Great Start To The New Motorcycle Test

The new ‘Super Test Centre’ at Rotherham, South Yorkshire, has come under fire this morning after the first candidate crashed his bike and broke his arm!

The DSA’s new centre opened for motorcycle tests on Monday for the new part one of the motorcycle test which must be taken off road due to that fact that some of the manoeuvres have to be done at 31mph.

Concerns are being voiced up and down the country by riding instructors after finding out that the test moves HAVE to be carried out at the same speed and over the same distances, whether it’s a nice sunny day or chucking it down with rain!  Instructors have been told that the surface is fitted with a super sticky compound which makes it safe in all weathers.

John Atkin, spokesman for the DSA, has said of the test centres:

“The areas used for the motorcycle manoeuvres have been tested thoroughly in both wet and dry conditions and provide a safe environment for the candidate. Tests have continued successfully at Rotherham since this happened.

I personally would like to know who is actually testing these centres.  Is it experienced riders who may very well be able to cope with doing these kinds of exercises, or is it novice riders who have recently learned to ride a bike? It would be interesting to find out.

The instructor who trained the man who was injured said the following

“Adam did his swerve manoeuvres and put his brakes on so he could stop in the required distance.
“But the back end of the bike swerved round and threw him off, leaving him with a very nasty break to his arm which needs surgery.
“All the instructors around here agree this is a joke. It’s common sense that you wouldn’t ride the same in the wet. They’ve just thrown common sense out of the window.

On the same day at the same centre, another young man fell from his bike, and was uninjured, and a girl failed the test, in the pouring rain, for being 1kph too slow.

I don’t know about the rest of you,  but if it’s raining I slow down on my bike and yet the DSA is expecting new riders to carry out manoeuvres at the same speed as you would in the dry!  It just doesn’t seem right.  Plus, if you think about this, new riders will be suffering from ‘test nerves’, I know I was when I took my test and this may well be a contributing factor.

I really feel for anyone looking at taking their test now, it can be done but it not an experience I would want to go through.  I’m just glad I passed my test before this was bought into effect!

Full Story

Specials At CycleGear.Com – Shoei Helmets,Suits, Jackets, Helmets & Gloves!




I thought I would have a wander through Cycle Gears website today and see what sort of offers they have on at the moment.. I found quite a few 🙂

See all the motorcycle items on sale at www.cyclegear.com - up to 75% off!


So thought I would post a selection for you to peruse! Please take a look at their website as this is only a tiny selection of the deals on offer 🙂

It might be an idea for those who are not aware of the SHARP Helmet Safety Rating Scheme to read the post about it, so you know what I am referring to when looking at the helmets on offer.

As always, just click on the images to be taken to Cycle Gears website 🙂

Jackets & Suits

First here is the Frank Thomas XTi One Piece suit  🙂

This item is part of a package deal!
Buy the Frank Thomas XTi Leather One-Piece Motorcycle Suit with the XTi Leather Motorcycle Gloves and the Frank Thomas SP Sport Tech Boots – all for $599.99.

Available in Black/Black, Red/Black, Blue/Black, Green/Black and White/Black.
All Frank Thomas leather suits, jackets, and pants are meticulously designed and crafted using high-quality, full-leather construction. They strive to provide you with safe, practical, and stylish motorcycle gear.

The XTI race suit boasts improved armor, upgraded detailing, and a fresh look.

Features and Benefits

• Premium-quality, 1.2-1.4mm full-grain matte leather
• Flexible stretch panels for a precurved race fit
• 100% antibacterial mesh lining
• Multiple-stitching throughout with triple- and quad-stitching on all major seams for maximum tear and abrasion resistance
• Thermo-set carbon-leather and titanium shoulder pieces
• Perforated-leather panels for optimum rider comfort
• CE-approved, form-fitting Arma-Flex armor at shoulders, elbows, and knees
• Hip pockets for optional armor (sold separately)
• Accommodates additional back protection (sold separately)
• Woven carbon-composite materials
• Aerodynamic race hump with airflow channels
• Stylish, replaceable knee sliders
• Heavy-duty, genuine YKK zippers

Next is the Alpinestars Rhoma Drystar Textile Jacket 🙂

This is currently on offer at $119.99

Distinct, stylish and packed with safety features, Alpinestars’ Rhoma Drystar offers high quality protection with simple yet distinctive style, making it the comfortable and smart choice for all occasions.

Available in Black/Black, Black/Blue and Black Red

Features and Benefits

• Water-resistant 600-denier fabric.
• CE certified protectors on elbows and shoulders.
• 100% waterproof and breathable.
• Drystar membrane.
• Zip operated ventilation.
• Removable thermal liner.
• 3D embroidered logos.
• Waist connection zipper allows attachment to selected Alpinestars leather

Helmets

First up the KBC VR-2R Reaper full face helmet – On offer at just $99.99

This has a UK SHARP safety rating of 2*

With a high-performance design ready for street and track alike, the flagship KBC VR-2R is a true racer’s helmet.

Engineered for aerodynamic airflow and stability at high speeds, the KBC VR-2R platform features reduced shell dimensions and overall size. The eye aperture, strap positions, and shell ergonomics have been fine tuned to increase peripheral vision, improve head maneuverability, reduce neck strain, and dampen wind noise.

Features and Benefits

• Lightweight, sturdy TriComp shell is constructed with advanced Vacuum Lamination System
• Dual-Intake Ventilation System (DIVS) provides efficient airflow draw, circulation, venting, and control for ultimate comfort
• Tool-free, anti-fog Quick-Release Visor Plus (QRV+) is optically correct and scratch-resistant
• Faceshield seals securely when closed to the helmets RIB system
• Removable, washable Ultralux liner in genuine Savoire Suede with customizable padding system
• Secure retention system with double D-ring chinstrap
• Certifications: DOT; Snell

Unless otherwise noted, helmet comes standard with clear faceshield.

Next up is the the Arashi Turbo on offer at $49.99.

Now I know that some people look down on cheaper helmets like these, as they feel that there is no way they are going to be as good as something which costs $500.  But here in the UK we have the Sharp Helmet Safety Rating scheme which puts helmets through a series of tests and rates them according to their performance.  These tests rate how well the helmets perform over and above the minimum safety levels and these scored 3* out of a possible 5*, which for a cheaper helmet really isn’t bad at all, especially when you consider that a lot of the more expensive helmets are not scoring as high.

Arashi combines superb design, outstanding features, and world-class quality in each and every helmet. Engineered and crafted to provide all-day comfort and protection.

Features and Benefits

• High-Impact Polycarbonate (HIP) outer shell is strong and lightweight
• Computer-Aided Design profile for maximum aerodynamic efficiency and minimal high-speed buffeting
• Simple and easy shield-removal system Adjustable multi-venting system allows optimal airflow through internal EPS shell channels
• Padded comfort liner is fully removable for easy washing
• Textured microfiber liner covering is comfortable against skin, wicks moisture, and dries quickly
• Classic, and proven, double D-ring retention system
• Certifications: Meets or exceeds DOT, European ECE 22-05, and Gold ACU
• Weight: 3.3 lbs. / 1478 grams

Unless otherwise noted, helmet comes standard with clear faceshield.

The next helmet is the Shark S650 Frame on offer at $99, saving you $120 on the list price of $229!

This helmet scored 4* in the Sharp Helmet Safety Rating tests

The Shark S650, one of the helmets in the Shark Performance collection, is an indisputable success.

Thanks to numerous technical qualities – fluid lines, ease of use, comfort, safety – it has converted a lot of bikers.

Features and Benefits

• Injected thermoplastic-resin shell
• Multi-element internal polystyrene shock-absorber with differentiated densities
• Air-circulation channels in inner shell for improved ventilation
• Anti-scratch 2.2mm faceshield
• Patented SlideLock quick-release shield system
• Multi-point air intake with Venturi-deflector ventilation
• Microfiber-fabric interior
• Secure, double D-ring chinstrap
• External anti-UV lacquer finish
• Weight: 3.09 lbs. (+/- 0.11 lbs.) / 1400 g (+/- 50 g)
• Certifications: DOT; ECE 2205

Unless otherwise noted, helmet comes standard with clear faceshield.

Lastly in the helmet selection is the Shoei RF1000 range.

These are currently on offer starting at $349.99 depending on the style you choose. This model has yet to be tested for a Sharp rating.

RF-1000 Solid starting at just $349.99

RF-1000 Diabolic 2 priced at $427.99

RF-1000 Artifact, Badge 2, Caster, Cutless, Diabolic 1, Diabolic 3, Diabolic Zero, Flutter, Gobert, Joust, Pincotte 3, Sever, Strike, Voyager are all priced at starting at $449.99

One of the most technologically advanced helmets for street riders – and clearly one of the best-looking helmets on the market. Shoei’s innovation and cutting-edge design makes the RF-1000 a premium motorcycle helmet.

Aerodynamically superior, the RF-1000 full-face helmet delivers high-speed performance and ventilation that is wind-tunnel proven. A perfect fit is achieved through removable, adjustable cheekpads and a 3D comfort-liner system that won’t shift during high-speed riding.

The legendary Shoei fit is developed from 3 shell sizes and 4 sizes of EPS liners. The RF-1000’s shell is made from Shoei’s proprietary Advanced Integrated Matrix Plus (AIM+) multifiber technology, which embeds ultrastrong organic fibers into fiberglass. The result is a lightweight yet strong outer shell that is better able to absorb and disperse the force of an impact.

Features and Benefits

Aerodynamic Shell Design

• Aerodynamic properties are maximized through extensive wind-tunnel and rider testing
• The Aero Stabilizer dramatically reduces drag and lift coefficients, thus diminishing rider fatigue and increasing performance

Two-Layer EPS Liner System

• Two-layer liner offers unmatched ventilation with internal channels and exhaust ports throughout the helmet
• Integrated Upper Air Intake minimizes air turbulence and maximizes air stream in all riding positions
• Outlet holes in the Aero Stabilizer allow warm air to be exhausted
• The lower air intake provides an additional source of air flow
• The neck outlet vent allows for effective air exhaust

Lightweight, Advanced Integrated Matrix Plus (AIM+)

• High-performance-fiber materials are combined with extremely elastic organic fibers to create a shell structure that is ultra-lightweight, rigid, and resilient

Anti-Fog System

• The lower air intake provides air flow that helps to diminish shield fogging

3D Interior Liner

• Removable interior cheekpads available in optional sizes for a custom fit
• Chinstrap cover can easily be removed to allow for cleaning or replacement

Standard Chinstrap Clip

• Neatly secures chinstrap

CX-1V Faceshield and Lock System

• Quick-Release Base Plate (QRBP) System allows tool-free shield removal
• A wide, 3-dimensionally-curved shield offers increased peripheral vision and optical clarity
• Scratch-resistant coating
• 100% protection from harmful UVA/UVB rays

Specifications

• Certifications: DOT 218; Snell M2005
• Weight (approx.): 3.28 lbs. / 1490 grams

Unless otherwise noted, helmet comes standard with clear faceshield.

Gloves

First in my glove selection is the Alpinestars SPS set.  On offer at the moment for just $69.95

The Alpinestars SPS unites the best features of a sport-riding glove with a short-cuff street style.

Features and Benefits

• Full-grain leather construction for abrasion resistance
• Double-layered leather palm with Kevlar for additional impact protection
• Clarino and leather palm reinforcements for superior grip
• Dual carbon-fiber knuckle protectors
• Extra layer of full-grain leather on the fingers
• Short-cuffed length with easy, secure Velcro closure

Next up are the Dainese Hellracer Leather Gloves.

These are currently reduced from £139.99, down to $109.99

Available in Men’s and Women’s sizes

The Dainese Hellracer moderates the technical and stylistic language found in the Duel glove, toning down some features to make it more accessible to the racing – but not ultra-racing – user.
In fact, although the Hellracer has less armoring compared with the Duel, it still maintains a high level of protection.
By adding streetriding comforts, the Hellracer’s undoubtedly aggressive origins are delicately balanced, making it suitable for road and racetrack alike.

The Dainese Hellracer: Dedicated to those who want the best of both worlds.

Features and Benefits

• Constructed of Kevlar jersey and cattle leather
• Elasticated inserts on the fingers, wrist, and back of hand for articulation
• Carbon-fiber inserts on knuckles and select finger joints
• Soft inserts on fingers, index-finger knuckle, back of hand, and palm
• Leather palm reinforcement
• Tightening strap for a perfect fit
• Adjustable cuff strap

Lastly in the gloves selection are the Frank Thomas Urban Warrior Gloves

These are currently on off for £39.99, saving you $10 on the list price

Features and Benefits

• Lightweight airflow mesh & leather combination
• 3D injection rubber moldings
• Thermo-set airflow ventilation knuckles
• Ribbed palm for extra grip & comfort

The following Frank Thomas gloves are also on offer –

Stealth Aqua Roo – $69.99

Air Rage – $79.99

Urban Shadow – $39.99

XTi Leather – $109.99

SP Tech Leather Glove – $69.99




Sharp Motorbike Helmet Safety Ratings

Introduced in November 2007, the SHARP Motorcycle Helmet Safety Rating Scheme aims to save lives of riders involved in motorbike accidents.  The first scheme of it’s kind worldwide, the SHARP (Safety Helmet Assessment and Rating Programme) aims to give a totally independent rating on the levels of protection crash helmets will provide in the event of an impact.

The helmets are rated on a scale of 1-5 depending on their performance in a series of laboratory tests.  While all crash helmets on sale in the UK must offer a minimum standard of protection, it has been found that there are real differences in how well the various helmets perform in the tests.  The rating shows how much over the minimum required standard the helmets perform.

The scheme is designed to give riders an easy to understand guide to which helmets will offer them the best protection.

One thing which has become apparent, looking at the tables below, is that the more expensive helmets are not necessarily the best performing ones.  There are quite a few helmets costing under £100 which score either a 4 or a 5 in the tests.

These are the Sharp safety ratings released to date.  As and when new ratings are released, I will update this information so it is kept up to date.

9th April 2009

Following an update email this morning I have amended the following list to include the ratings published on an additional 28 helmets.

Make	Model	Style	Sizes	Cost (£)	Rating out of 5
AGV	Airtech	Full Face	XS-XXL	150	****
	K Series	Full Face	S-XL	100	***
	S-4	Full Face	XXS-XXL	180	*****
	K3	Full Face	XS-XXL	149	****
	Ti-Tech	Full Face	XXS-XXL	250	****
	S-4 Stealth	Full Face	XXS-XXL	180	*****
	Longway	System	XS-XL	150	****
Airoh	Leox	Full Face	XS-XL	99	***
	Speed Fire	Full Face	XS-XL	50	****
	Mathisse RS	System	XS-XXL	120	**
Arai	RX-7	Full Face	XXS-XXL	450	***
	Condor	Full Face	XS-XXL	200	**
	GP5x	Full Face	XS-XXL	300	*****
	Viper GT	Full Face	XS-XXL	330	***
	Astro	Full Face	XS-XL	330	***
Arashi	Viper	Full Face	S-XL	65	****
	Galaxy	Full Face	XS-XL	49	***
	Sonic	Full Face	XS-XL	49	***
	Turbo	Full Face	XS-XL	49	***
Bell	M1	Full Face	XS-XXL	130	*****
	M4R	Full Face	XXS-XXL	220	*****
	M5X	Full Face	XS-XXL	299	*****
BMW	System 5	System	XXS-XXL	280	*****
Box	BX4	Full Face	XS-XXL	80	**
	BX2	Full Face	S-XL	60	****
	BX3 Dagger	Full Face	XS-XL	54	**
	BX5 Hurricane	Full Face	XS-XL	49	****
Buell	Turbulent	Full Face	XXS-XXL	180	*****
Caberg	V2R	Full Face	XXS-XXL	100	*****
	Trip	System	XS-XL	100	*****
	Justissimo GT	System	XS-XXL	150	****
Duchinni	D801	Full Face	XXS-XXL	80	****
	D601	System	XS-XXL	90	*
	D701	Full Face	XS-XXL	50	****
G-Mac	Concept	System	XS-XXL	80	***
Givi	HPS40.1	Full Face	XS-XL	199	***
Grex	RF2	Full Face	XS-XXL	120	****
	R1	Full Face	XS-XL	100	****
HJC	HQ-1	Full Face	XS-XL	249	*****
	CS-12	Full Face	XS-XXL	69	**
	FG-14	Full Face	XS-XXL	150	***
	CL-ST	Full Face	XS-XL	109	***
	FS-10	Full Face	XS-XXL	169	***
	CS-12N	Full Face	XS-XXL	120	***
	CS-R1	Full Face	XS-XL	99	*
	FG-15	Full Face	XS-XL	139	****
	IS-16	Full Face	XS-XXL	119	**
	FS10 Carbon	Full Face	XS-XXL	249	***
KBC	Force RR	Full Face	XXS-XXL	90	*
	VR2R	Full Face	XXS-XXL	180	**
	FFR	System	XXS-XXL	140	*
	Magnum	Full Face	XXS-XXL	139	*
	TK8	Full Face	XXS-XXL	59	*
	XP3	Full Face	XXS-XXL	129	***
Lazer	Fibre Pro	Full Face	XS-XXL	140	****
	LZ6	Full Face	XS-XL	60	*****
	Tornado	Full Face	XS-XL	90	**
	Vertigo	Full Face	XS-XXL	70	****
	Fibre D1	Full Face	XS-XL	200	****
	Granville	System	XS-XL	100	****
	Revolution	System	XXS-XXL	140	****
Marushin	Tiger	Full Face	XXS-XXL	100	*****
	RS1 Carbon	Full Face	XXS-XXL	200	*****
	Ikusa	Full Face	XS-XXL	119	****
	Samura	Full Face	XS-XXL	99	*****
	Shivan	Full Face	XS-XXL	119	****
	M401	Full Face	XS-XXL	TBA	**
Nitro	N810VX	Full Face	S-XL	100	****
	N820VX	Full Face	S-XL	120	****
	N330VX	Full Face	S-XL	50	**
	N755VX	Full Face	S-XL	80	****
	N1430VX	Full Face	S-XL	100	****
	N1600VN	Full Face	S-XL	80	****
	N1700 VF	Full Face	XS-XXL	119	*****
	F347VN	System	XS-XXL	99	***
Nolan	N62	Full Face	XS-XXL	130	****
	N84	Full Face	XS-XXL	150	****
	N103	System	XXS-XXL	250	****
	N102	System	XS-XXL	200	****
Nuvo	SP2	Full Face	XS-XL	119	****
Premier	Monza	Full Face	XS-XXL	170	****
Roof	RO10 Diversion	Full Face	XS-XXL	245	****
	RO10 Daytona	Full Face	XS-XXL	245	***
	Boxer	System	XS-XL	215	****
RST	Racevent	Full Face	XS-XXL	125	***
	Cobra Vent	Full Face	S-XL	79	****
	PC1S	Full Face	XS-XL	60	*
Schuberth	S1 Pro	Full Face	XS-XXXL	400	**
	R1	Full Face	XS-XXL	320	**
	C2	System	XS-XXL	350	****
Scorpion	EXO-700	Full Face	S-XL	100	****
Shark	RSR2	Full Face	XS-XL	319	*****
	S500 Air	Full Face	XS-XXL	114	****
	RSF 2i	Full Face	XS-XL	159	****
	RSI	Full Face	XS-XL	199	****
	S800	Full Face	XS-XL	149	****
	Openline	System	XS-XL	190	***
	Evoline	System	XS-XL	250	****
	S650	Full Face	XS-XL	125	****
	RSX	Full Face	XS-XL	169	*****
Shoei	Raid II	Full Face	XS-XL	250	****
	XR-1000	Full Face	XS-XL	330	***
	X-Spirit	Full Face	XS-XL	480	****
	Multitech	System	XS-XXL	300	***
Suomy	Extreme	Full Face	S-XL	400	***
	Gunwind	Full Face	S-XL	220	***
	Spec 1R	Full Face	S-XL	300	***
Takachi	TK-30	Full Face	S-XL	60	**
Urban	N20	Full Face	XS-XXL	100	***
Vemar	VSREV	Full Face	S-XL	190	**
	TA12K	Full Face	S-XL	70	***
	VSSEV	Full Face	XS-XL	119	*
	VTXE	Full Face	XXS-XXXL	149	**
	VXP	Full Face	XXS-XXXL	79	***
Viper	RS 40	Full Face	XXS-XXL	50	***
	RS 66	Full Face	XXS-XXL	70	***
	RS V121	System	XS-XL	150	***
	RS101	System	XS-XL	60	****
X-Lite	X601	Full Face	XS-XXL	120	****
	X602	Full Face	S-XL	200	****
	X701	Full Face	S-XL	260	****
	X801	Full Face	S-XL	320	****
	X1002	System	XS-XXL	249	****

Also take a look at the following entry

Choosing The Correct Size Motorcycle Helmet

Save £££’s on HJC Helmets

There are currently some good deals around if you are looking at buying yourself a new crash helmet.  I’ve come across these for some of the HJC range.  If you are just starting out on a bike and are looking to buy your first set of gear then you can’t go far wrong with these.  They are also suitable as a second standby helmet and are all being sold at affordable prices.

The helmet size conversion chart is at the bottom of this entry and you may also want to take a look at this entry Choosing The Correct Size Motorcycle Helmet to make sure you choose the right size for your head 🙂

Firstly the HJC IS-16 Range available

These helmets got a 2* Sharp Helmet safety rating.. The helmets are priced at £132.99 and are available in the following designs.

Available in Black or White

There is something to be said about a black crash helmet, I tend to buy plain black ones every time.  This has a very subtle design on it and I quite like this one 🙂

Available in Gunmetal/Black, Blue/Black and Red/Black

Available in Pink

Helmet Specifications

Advanced Polycarbonate Composite Shell: Lightweight, superior fit and comfort using advanced CAD technology.

One-touch Integrated SunShield: Smoke-tinted 3-stage adjustable SunShield deploys quickly and easily (patent pending).

AccuSight™ Anti-fog Faceshield: Optically superior 3D design provides 95% UV protection and an anti-scratch coating.

RapidFire™ Shield Replacement System: Quick, secure, tool-less removal and installation.

"ACS" Advanced Channeling Ventilation System: Full front to back airflow flushes heat and humidity up and out

SilverCool™ Interior: Moisture-wicking and odour-free interior with advanced silver anti-bacterial fabric. Comfortable, removable and washable.

DOT Approved

SIZES: XS-XXL

Next is the HJC FS-15 Prism helmet

Priced at £170.99 these got a score of 4* in the Sharp Helmet safety rating tests.

Helmet Specifications

• Advanced Fibreglass Composite Shell: Lightweight, superior fit and comfort using advanced CAD technology.
• Optically-superior Pinlock®-prepared Faceshield: New 3D design provides 95% UV protection, anti-scratch coating and is prepared for the ultimate anti-fog Pinlock insert.
• RapidFire™ Shield Replacement System: Quick, secure, tool-less removal and installation.
• “ACS” Advanced Channeling Ventilation System: Full front to back airflow flushes heat and humidity up and out.
• SilverCool™ Interior: Removable moisture-wicking and odour-free interior with advanced silver anti-bacterial fabric.
• SNELL/DOT Approved
• SIZES: XS-XXL

Next up is the HJC CS-12N Cyclone Helmet

This is priced at just £75.99 and scored 3* in the Sharp helmet tests. The price is pretty damn good for a 3* helmet and the designs not too bad either 🙂

This is available in the following colours – Red/Silver, Pink/Silver, Blue/Silver and Black Silver.

Helmet Specifications

Standard: Meets or exceeds DOT standard .

Shell: Ultra lightweight thermoplastic alloy shell.

Ventilation: Maximum chin-bar ventilation ensures minimum fogging while maximum air intake is achieved with 2 large adjustable venturi side vents and a traditional centre chin vent, drawing excess humidity away from the shield.

Interior: Plush Nylex interior and cheek pads for maximum absorption.

Others: Breathbox and anti-fog coated shields available for cold and/or wet conditions.

Size: XS to XL.

The next offering is the HJC CL-SP Throttle.

Available in blue/black, red/black and gunmetal/black it scored 3* in the Sharp helmet tests and is available for £113.99

Helmet specifications

• Advanced Polycarbonate Composite Shell: Lightweight, superior fit and comfort using advanced CAD technology.
• AccuSight™Anti-fog Faceshield: Optically superior 3D design provides 95% UV protection and an anti-scratch coating.
• RapidFire™ Shield Replacement System: Quick, secure, tool-less removal and installation.
• 2-stage Shield Closure Mechanism: Compresses shield into the eye port gasket providing an extremely secure seal.
• “ACS” Advanced Channeling Ventilation System: Full front to back airflow flushes heat and humidity up and out.
• Bioceramic Nylex® Moisture-wicking Interior: Anti-bacterial, removable and washable.
• SNELL/DOT Approved
• SIZES: XS-XL

Lastly in this little selection are the HJC CS-R1 Samurai and Fang helmets.

These got a 1* rating in the Sharp Helmet safety tests and are priced a priced at £104.99

The Samurai design above is one I personally quite like 🙂

• Advanced Polycarbonate Composite Shell: Lightweight, superior fit and comfort using advanced CAD technology.
• RapidFire™ Shield Replacement System: Quick, secure, tool-less removal and installation.
• Optically Superior Faceshield: 95% UV protection.
• Advanced Ventilation System: Adjustable forehead and chin vents, and two rear exhaust vents.
• Plush, Nylex® Interior: Removable and washable cheek pads.
• DOT Approved
• SIZES: XS-XL

Here is HJC’s helmet size conversion chart, just to try and be as helpful as possible 🙂

Helmet Size	Centimetres	Hat Size	Inches
XXS	51-52	6 3/8 – 6 1/2	20- 20 1/2
XS	53-54	6 5/8 – 6 3/4	20 7/8 – 21 1/4
S	55-56	6 7/8 – 7	21 5/8 – 22
M	57-58	7 1/8 – 7 1/4	22 1/2 – 22 7/8
L	59-60	7 3/8 – 7 1/2	23 1/4 – 23 5/8
XL	61-62	7 5/8 – 7 3/4	24 – 24 3/8
XXL	63-64	7 7/8 – 8	24 3/4 – 25 1/4
XXXL	65-66	8 1/8 – 8 1/4	25 5/8 – 26

Dynojet Power Commander V – 10% Off At Moto-Racing UK!

I just had to post this..

Moto-Racing UK are currently offering the Dynojet Power Commander V with 10% off for the 2009 range of bikes until midnight on the 8th April 2009.

The Power Commander V normally has a retail price of £313.38 but is on offer for £282.04!!! 😀

Just click on the logo’s at either the top or bottom of this post to be taken to their website 🙂

Power Commander V Basic Features

• Reduced size from PCIIIusb (less than half of the size of PCIII)
• USB powered from computer (9 volt adapter is no longer needed for programming)
• 2 position map switching function built in (map switch not included)
• Gear/Speed input (allows for map adjustment based on gear and speed)
• Analog input (allows user to install any 0-5 volt sensor and build an adjustment table based on its input such as boost or temperature)
• With gear position input connected the PCV is capable of allowing each cylinder to be mapped individually and for each gear (for example: on a 4 cylinder bike with a six speed transmission there could be up to 24 separate fuel tables).
• Unit has a -100/+250% fuel change range (up from -100/+100%). This allows more adjustment range for 8 injector sportbikes
• 10 throttle position columns (up from 9 on PCIIIusb)
• Enhanced “accel pump” utility (increased adjustment and sensitivity ranges)

The models included in the offer are as follows.

2009 Kawasaki ZX6R

2009 Kawasaki ZX10R

2009 Suzuki GSXR600

2009 Suzuki GSXR750

2009 Suzuki GSXR1000

2009 Triumph Daytona 675

2009 Yamaha YZF R6

2009 Yamaha YZF R1

2009 Honda CBR600RR

2009 Honda CBR1000RR

Leather Jacket, Trousers & Gloves Deal – Just £139.99

Well, there I was this morning wandering round the interweb looking for some good deals and I came across this..

I found an amazing deal for just £139.99 for a complete set of leather bike gear! For that you get a leather jacket with CE approved armour, a pair of leather trousers and gloves as well!  Talk about a bargain 🙂

The normal retail seeling price of the full set of gear is £379.99 but by buying via this link you will save an absolutely masive £240!!! 😀

If you follow this link or click on any of the images you will be taken straight to the deal page.

If you are just starting out on your biking life or are looking for either replacement leathers or a second spare set, then you seriously can’t go wrong with this deal!!

Here are a few more details..

Leather Jacket

MAX MPH RED LINE ULTIMATE BIKERS JACKET

This superb MAX MPH RED LINE Biker jacket is made from Quality 1.3mm Milled Cowhide Leather. Fitted as standard, with removable CE Approved Body Armour for the back, elbows & shoulders. With additional rubber padding, to the front & back with foam padding around the kidney area.

The highest quality original YKK Zippers along with double stitching to all seams complete the safety features of this ultimate bikers jacket.

Two internal & two external zipped pockets give you plenty of room to store those biker essentials, zipped cuffs with press stud fasteners along with neck & waist Velcro adjustment guarantee your comfort in all conditions.

The MAX MPH RED LINE jacket has an eight inch zip at the rear to allow you to connect to your leather trousers.

Trousers

MAX MPH RED LINE ULTIMATE BIKERS LEATHER JEANS

These MAX MPH RED LINE JEANS are designed for the ultimate comfort & protection, made from Quality 1.3mm Milled Cowhide Leather with stretch panels for comfort & fit. Fitted as standard, with removable CE Approved Body Armour, to the knees & hips.

The highest quality original YKK Zippers along with double stitching to all seams complete the safety features of these ultimate biker jeans.

These MAX MPH RED LINE jeans have an eight inch zip at the rear to allow you to connect to your leather jacket.

Gloves

MAX MPH RED LINE ULTIMATE BIKER GLOVES

These MAX MPH RED LINE GLOVES are designed for the ultimate comfort & protection, Made from Quality Analin Cowhide Leather, with stretch panels for comfort & fit. They give superb feedback & feel while providing maximum protection.

Carbon Fibre knuckles.

Available Sizes

JACKETS CHEST SIZES = 40” 42” 44” 46” 48” 50”

JEANS WAIST SIZES = 30” 32” 34” 36” 38”

GLOVE SIZES = MED, LARGE, X-LARGE

All you have to do is pick the sizes you want when completing the purchase and add them in the special instructions box during the checkout process.. Simple as that 🙂

Motorcycle Groups Warning Of Test Chaos

The new motorcycle test comes into effect at the end of this month, and motorcycle groups are warning that the system is not sufficiently geared up to avoid chaos.

The DSA’s decision to make the test available at just 66 centres nationwide, instead of the previous 260+, will make it more difficult to get a test booked, and that’s before any of these new riders actually faces the ride to get to one of the new ‘test super centres’.

As things stand at the moment most tests are booked as part of a package offered by training schools, courses such as the DAS (Direct Access) course and availability has always been pretty good.  But after the introduction of the new test a greater number of training establishments will be sharing the new test centres, which will result in many fewer bookings for each riding school.

Many riding schools must now be doubting how secure their futures are when taking the the current status of the new test centres into account.  Some are reporting that the numbers of learners they may be able to book in for tests may be reduced by half.  How long are riding schools going to be able to continue with that kind of a drop in the revenue?

Plus, if take into consideration the increases in fees imposed by the DSA in recent months you will begin to wonder how many people will actually look at taking their bike test now.  Additionally fees for taking riding courses will no doubt go up as schools have to cover the costs of getting learner riders to the test centres.  Some new riders, already nervous at the prospect of thaking their test ,may face a journey of 45 minutes or more just to get to their test centre.

The implementation of the new test was delayed by 6 months last September as only 38 of the 66 new test centres was ready for business.  Since last September just 6 new ones have been added and the remaining 22 areas have only temporary or weekend only test centres.  All of my local riding schools now face sharing a test centre which is only open on Tuesdays!!! It’s a joke!

Considering the new test was implemented to increase rider safety, there are fears that a growing number of riders will be put off going the new test route and will just take to the road without a licence.

Well done DSA.. A gold medal is coming your way.. for making a right ba**s up of this!

Full story

HJC CL-SP Barbwire Motorcycle Helmet Just $89 At New Enough

New Enough need to move out the remaining stock of the HJC CL-SP Barbwire helmet and so have reduced the price down to an absolute bargain price of just $89!  The MSRP for these helmets is $189.99-$194.99, so the reduction in price is outstanding.

So if you are looking to buy a new helmet for the forth-coming season, a back up helmet, or even looking for your first and are on a budget, then you can’t go far wrong with this offer 🙂

Available in 5 colours, New Enough have a good selection of sizes available. As always, just click on the photos to be taken direct to the correct page on New Enough’s Website

HJC CL-SP Barbwire Helmet

Shell features:

• Lightweight Injection-Moulded Polycarbonate
• Composite Shell which meets or exceeds Snell M2005 & DOT standards
• Channelled dual density EPS liner
• Wind tunnel tested aerodynamic shell shape with an extra large eye port opening for greater visibility
• Three shell sizes for a more comfortable fit

Interior Features:

• Removable/washable Nylex® interior liner and cheek pads quickly wick moisture away from the skin and eliminate odour causing bacteria
• Easily removable cheek pads for cleaning or custom fitting
• Optional cheek pad sizes to achieve a “custom fit”
• Streamline, wrap around neck roll reduces wind noise
• Padded chin strap design
• Built-in communication system speaker cavity
• 

Shield Features:

• Two-stage pivot mechanism compresses the shield into the eye port gasket providing an extremely secure seal
• Improved, no guess work, tool-less shield removal and installation
• Aerodynamic flush mounted fit for reduced turbulence
• Scratch resistant hard coated shield
• Optically superior 3D design
• Rated at 95% UV resistant
• 

Venting Features:

• Flow through advanced channelling ventilation system with dual flow-through channels and two high capacity, multi-stage intake vents
• Rear vent helps draw heat and humidity out of helmet
• Anti-fog system with side chin bar mounted vortex vents creating a low-pressure vacuum effect drawing heat and moisture out of the face shield area
• Adjustable chin vent re-directs air upward and across shield interior
• 

Save £50 On Arai Helmets At M&P Direct (UK)

I had this through this morning via email.  M&P are offering £50 off certain models of crash helmets, just click on the photos to be taken direct to the correct page on M&P’s Website 🙂

Just in time for the start of the new riding season 🙂

M&P are offering the Condor Black Full Face helmet, available in all sizes the current price is down from £219.99 to just £169.99!!

Helmet specifications

• Super Fibre construction
• Ring shaped strengthening in lower section
• Slim, oval outer shell
• Triple density inner shell
• Delta Duct inlet vent and exhaust vents
• Controlled chin ventilation
• Fully washable interior
• Free Flow System (FFS)
• Reduces draft and wind noise
• Lever Release visor removal system (LRS)
• Aerodynamic recessed visor holder system
• Patented Visor Brow ventilation ducts
• Aerodynamic 2mm Polycarbonate Pinlock® ready visor with De-mist visor lock
• Double D ring fastening system ensures correct strap tension at all times

Also on offer are the Arai Condor Voltage helmets, again with a saving of £50.  They are currently priced at £199.99!!

Helmet Specifications

Super Fibre construction

Ring shaped strengthening in lower section

Slim, oval outer shell

Triple density inner shell

Delta Duct inlet vent and exhaust vents

Controlled chin ventilation

Fully washable interior

Free Flow System (FFS)

Reduces draft and wind noise

Lever Release visor removal system (LRS)

Aerodynamic recessed visor holder system

Patented Visor Brow ventilation ducts

Aerodynamic 2mm Polycarbonate Pinlock® ready visor with De-mist visor lock

Double D ring fastening system ensures correct strap tension at all times

Intuitive Race Products On Closeout At New Enough

Due to availability issues New Enough are now offering the following Intuitive Racing Products on closeout.

Don’t delay when they are gone, they’re gone!!

Just click on the links in the bike models to be taken to New Enough’s Website.

Bar End Sliders for the following models

CNC machined

IRP’s own ultra hard plastic offers the perfect balance of strength and flexibility

Sliders are rigid mounted using high tensile strength fasteners (bolts)

All necessary hardware for installation included

Available in Black only

Honda  CBR600 07/08 & CBR1000 08/09 ,
Kawasaki ZX6R – 07/08, ZX14 – 06/09, Ninja 650R – 07/08, ZX6R – 09
Suzuki GSXR600/750 – 06/09, GSXR1000 – 05/09
Yamaha R6S – 06-09, R6 – 06-09, R1 – 07-08

Frame Sliders For the following models

CNC machined

IRP’s own ultra hard plastic offers the perfect balance of strength and flexibility

Sliders are rigid mounted to the frame or engine mounts using high tensile strength fasteners (bolts)

All necessary hardware for installation included

Available in Black only

Honda CBR600 – 07/08, CBR1000RR – 08/09
Kawasaki ZX6R – 07/08, ZX6R – 09, ZX10R – 08/09, ZX14 – 06/09, Ninja 250R – 08/09
Suzuki GSXR 600/750 – 08/09, GSXR1000 – 05/06, GSXR1000 – 07/08, Hayabusa – 08/09
Triumph Daytona 675 – 07/08
Yamaha R6S – 06/07, R6 – 06/07, R6 – 08/09, FZ6 – 04/08, R1 – 07/08

Spool Sliders for the following models

IRP’s own ultra hard plastic will not shatter or chip like Delrin

Dual purpose spool and slider minimizes damage to the swing arm, and axle nut or bolt

V-groove design for aligning rear stand

Highest grade steel bolts

All necessary hardware for installation included

Sold as a pair

Available in Black only

Honda CBR600RR – 07/08, CBR1000RR – 08/09
Kawasaki ZX6R – 07/08, ZX14 – 06/09, ZX10R 08/09, Ninja 250R – 08/09, Ninja 650R – 07-08
Suzuki GSXR600/750 – 06/09, GSXR1000 – 05/09, Hayabusa – 08/09
Truimph Daytona 675 – 07/08
Yamaha R6S – 06/09, R6 – 06/09, FZ6 – 04/08, FZ1 – 06/08, R1 – 07/09