There's a general rule around here regarding helmets: when we get one we immediately replace the clear shield with the darkest one we can get. Why? Well let's face it; every helmet (and its wearer) looks far cooler with a dark-tinted faceshield. But really we do it because most of our riding occurs during the day, so this beats wearing sunglasses under our lids (which is a potential safety hazard if a lens breaks during a crash). If we predict we'll be riding into the night then we'll also keep the clear visor in tow. You can't always predict how late you'll be out however, and there'll be times when you get caught out in the dark without a clear shield, relying on the headlights of the cars in front of you to guide the way.That doesn't have to be that way anymore. Now, no matter what time of the day it is, you can grab one helmet-the HJC IS-16-and not worry about shields. The IS-16 features an integrated sun visor that flips down behind the clear standard visor via a pull tab on top of the lid and conveniently tucks back into the helmet at the push of a button. Its shell construction is from a polycarbonate composite that meets D.O.T. requirements and suits round-oval head shapes. It also incorporates the company's ACS, or Advanced Channeling Ventilation System. A removable, moisture-wicking liner wraps around your head and is machine washable.
This isn't HJC's first foray into the dual-function helmet, but its previous attempt had a few minor bugs. Topping that list was the dark-tint visor that didn't come down far enough, leaving the bottom edge of the visor directly in the rider's field of vision. The IS-16 addresses that issue and extends further, leaving the rider free to see the road. It's been reported on other helmets with dual-visor systems that distortion is also a concern. Fortunately, we didn't experience this with our test unit. Ironically, even though the outer clear faceshield has an anti-fog coating, the flip-down dark visor does not.Aerodynamically, we noticed the helmet shape to buffet slightly at speeds hovering around 80mph but otherwise was fairly stable, even from a side profile. The ACS ventilation system didn't yield any noticeable results although-curiously-a noticeable draft could be felt from the lower base of the head, as though there was a gap between the liner and scalp. This wasn't the case, and the anomaly occurred on multiple motorcycles. Otherwise we were impressed with the IS-16. Fit and finish is top-notch (though we wish the ventilation system worked a little better), and the multi-purpose functionality of the twin visors becomes greatly appreciated especially after switching back to a traditional helmet. But perhaps what makes this helmet even more appealing is the price. Starting at $189.99 for solid colors (up to $204.99 for graphics) HJC has delivered a functional lid at a great value.
HJC Helmets
(562) 407-2186
www.hjchelmets.com