View Full Version : Helmet too noisy
*Boot's*
11th September 2014, 15:12
Have just brought a brand new Caberg. It is a flip front and is twice or three times as noisy as a Givi (got stolen) also it fogs up where my give didn't…. My Givi rode up a little at higher speeds than 50kmph but noise was considerably less along with no fogging.
Any hints tips or advice for a different breed of helmet if noise issue cannot be rectified?
Gremlin
11th September 2014, 15:25
You should be using ear plugs, as the wind noise at 100kph is sufficient to give you permanent hearing loss after sustained periods.
So with that in mind, all helmets are quieter for me. Things like whisper kits or neck curtains and the spoiler across the chin area can keep noise down, but you're also looking for a snug helmet so there aren't the gaps for wind to get through.
Bear in mind the spoiler and curtains can slow down the venting of air, so fogging can be more of an issue.
Tazz
11th September 2014, 15:47
^ earplugs, balaclava and scarf/neck pullover thing will all help.
Flip fronts are generally a bit noisier as a rule, as are helmets with inbuilt sun visors. If you read up on the Casberg before you bought it you probably would have got something different....I know I did, but it's still not perfect either to be fair.
As for the fogging, fit a pinlock if you can, otherwise you'll just need to keep it cracked at certain speeds that you'll get used to and there is a spray you can use as well.
Getting decent earplugs can be a whole other ballgame depending on you earshape.
Big Dog
11th September 2014, 15:56
For me ear plugs guarantee ear infections.
A beard or otherwise filling the orifice at the bottom helps.
Choosing a quiet helmet is mostly common sense.
External mechanisms, breaks in the surface of the shell, such as flip fronts, changeable chin bars etc, speaker cavities (if not filled) and scoop type spoilers and vents all increase noise.
Any component that is flush or countersunk makes less noise than a raised or proud equivalent.
Some claim they hear the difference of a flat colour vs a scheme with ridges at the colour transitions.
Careful what features you buy many carry weight or sound penalties not matched by benefits.
Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.
Moi
11th September 2014, 17:53
I have a Caberg Duke [flip-front] and find it quieter than the Nolan N103 which I also use. Always wear earplugs as I already have hearing loss due to loud discotheque music when young and loud pub bands - some of which in hindsight were bloody awful musicians. Plus both bikes have windshields which help a little with wind noise. I have not had the Caberg fog up even in low temps.
Can't explain why you are having issues as can only comment on my experiences - would certainly consider another Caberg helmet.
My tuppence worth...
slofox
11th September 2014, 18:00
Always use earplugs meself. No noise problem. Arai helmet.
Akzle
11th September 2014, 18:31
stab yourself in the ear with a pencil.
ellipsis
11th September 2014, 18:37
stab yourself in the ear with a pencil.
...or get a motor that you dont mind listening to...if we are going to be facetious...
Akzle
11th September 2014, 18:47
...or get a motor that you dont mind listening to...if we are going to be facetious...
facetious... Right, sure.
ellipsis
11th September 2014, 18:53
facetious... Right, sure.
...left, maybe...
nerrrd
11th September 2014, 19:21
I've got a spare pinlock insert for the Caberg Tourmax I had which got stolen...hopefully you didn't buy that.
The Tourmax is basically a Duke with a peak so would fit a Duke visor. But the Duke, if it is one, comes with a pinlock visor standard, so maybe you left the insert in the box?
Only helmet I've ever had without a pinlock that didn't fog up is my current Bell Revolver Evo, it's got some fancy coating on the inside that actually works.
awayatc
11th September 2014, 20:00
^ earplugs, balaclava and scarf/neck pullover thing will all help.
Scarf /neck pullover thing and/or whiperkit...(neoprene sleeve glued onto bottom of helmet so head fits in snugly..)
Don't under estimate the comfort and quietness of a good balaclava....( i have got a thick one for winter and a merino for summer)
Oh...did somebody mention to use a balaclava...?
chasio
11th September 2014, 20:17
Got a screen on your bike? I know mine is noisier with the screen than without, as it directs the airflow to basically hit my chin. But the screen does reduce wind blast on my body for highway riding, so it is often fitted.
If you have a screen and it is adjustable, try tweaking it. A new helmet will behave differently in the same airflow and in my experience small changes can make quite a difference to noise levels.
But regardless, earplugs are strongly recommended for all but very short stints at speed unless you have a medical issue using them (as noted above). Personally, if I'm expecting to do more than 10 minutes on the highway, in they go.
Hearing loss is a one way street you don't want to ride down.
BMWST?
11th September 2014, 20:30
its a subjective thing this noise...when i first started riding again i couldnt beleive how noisy it was.After a short time it got so i realised it just wasnt normal,so astarted a program of whisper kits,ear plugs,custom air plugs,chin curtains,highh screen,low screen,no screen,and combinations of all,different helmets.
I gave up and sold the bike,i just couldnt enjoy it
EJK
11th September 2014, 20:32
When simple "earplugs" are not enough, here is an alternative:
<img src="http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/NjAwWDcwMg==/z/8LIAAOxyMKNSJa82/$T2eC16ZHJGkFFmws5iJBBSJ,81d)zw~~60_35.JPG" />
Noise cancelling FTW.
Laava
11th September 2014, 20:52
When simple "earplugs" are not enough, here is an alternative:
Noise cancelling FTW.
Nice! And you can then play sounds through them and actually hear it at 100kmh?
Akzle
11th September 2014, 21:02
Nice! And you can then play sounds through them and actually hear it at 100kmh?
109.5, if youre naughty.
slofox
11th September 2014, 21:11
109.5, if youre naughty.
190.5..?
.
The End
11th September 2014, 21:20
When simple "earplugs" are not enough, here is an alternative:
Noise cancelling FTW.
I wear headphones with music going 95% of the time I ride. I recently tried some foam ear plugs and couldn't believe how much more noise they let in. Even with my music off, the headphones block way more wind noise than earplugs.
Lately I've really been noticing how loud the windnoise is and ride with headphones (with music), a neck warmer and a scarf.
Don't know what I'm gonna do once it starts getting warmer cause without the scarf the wind whistles right in between my shoulder and helmet.
Tazz
11th September 2014, 21:48
When simple "earplugs" are not enough, here is an alternative:
Noise cancelling FTW.
Champagne tastes there man haha
I wear headphones with music going 95% of the time I ride. I recently tried some foam ear plugs and couldn't believe how much more noise they let in. Even with my music off, the headphones block way more wind noise than earplugs.
Lately I've really been noticing how loud the windnoise is and ride with headphones (with music), a neck warmer and a scarf.
Don't know what I'm gonna do once it starts getting warmer cause without the scarf the wind whistles right in between my shoulder and helmet.
What brand/model? Mine suck comfort wise, but not enough to justify owning another set of $enns yet
EJK
11th September 2014, 23:25
Nice! And you can then play sounds through them and actually hear it at 100kmh?
Hey now, whatcha talkin bout? Mines got Akrapovic pipes. :msn-wink:
Champagne tastes there man haha
I let nothing but Sennheiser headphones touch my ears.
The End
12th September 2014, 11:34
What brand/model? Mine suck comfort wise, but not enough to justify owning another set of $enns yet
JVC Xtreme in ears. Cost like $30 at Thailand airport.
Rode to work this morning without the scarf and I regret it. Swear I hear ringing in my ears :brick:
I'm going to see about getting those windjammer curtains online and see if it helps.
Big Dave
12th September 2014, 12:03
I agree it's probably not the helmet - it's more likely a windscreen. Replacement screens are cheaper than a hat.
Pinlock inserts stop all fogging.
The Senheisers are very good. They cost more - but they last a lot longer.
EJK
12th September 2014, 13:31
Plus the ear pieces are tiny. Makes it very comfortable inside the helmet.
nzspokes
12th September 2014, 14:21
JVC Xtreme in ears. Cost like $30 at Thailand airport.
Rode to work this morning without the scarf and I regret it. Swear I hear ringing in my ears :brick:
I'm going to see about getting those windjammer curtains online and see if it helps.
They get really hot in summer.
Adjust your screen a bit.
GrayWolf
12th September 2014, 14:27
Have just brought a brand new Caberg. It is a flip front and is twice or three times as noisy as a Givi (got stolen) also it fogs up where my give didn't…. My Givi rode up a little at higher speeds than 50kmph but noise was considerably less along with no fogging.
Any hints tips or advice for a different breed of helmet if noise issue cannot be rectified?
I have several 'flip fronts' Caberg are a LOT quieter than either Nolan 103/104, my Givi is bloody noisy, the LS2 is fairly quiet compared.
Best advice here is EARPLUGS!!
Been riding 40yrs, many mnay of them with open face, and 'old style' full face etc... I now have 'industrial deafness', and I have never worked in a 'heavy plant' environment... So guess how???
EARPLUGS are your ears best friend on a bike.
*Boot's*
12th September 2014, 15:57
ear plugs and duct tape on a new helmet? ok…. I'm annoyed!
haydes55
12th September 2014, 16:53
ear plugs and duct tape on a new helmet? ok…. I'm annoyed!
Why would you not have been already wearing ear plugs? The wind is rushing past your ears an inch away.
Hearing aids as a 40 year old would be so cool though.
nzspokes
12th September 2014, 17:38
Why would you not have been already wearing ear plugs? The wind is rushing past your ears an inch away.
Hearing aids as a 40 year old would be so cool though.
What? :lol:
EJK
12th September 2014, 17:45
What? :lol:
English! Do you speak it?!
nzspokes
12th September 2014, 17:51
English! Do you speak it?!
What was that?
haydes55
12th September 2014, 21:24
what was that?
old man warning, please use caps so he can hear the text.
EJK
12th September 2014, 21:28
What was that?
<object width="560" height="315"><param name="movie" value="//www.youtube.com/v/9wEnb9yIoes?hl=en_US&version=3"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="//www.youtube.com/v/9wEnb9yIoes?hl=en_US&version=3" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="560" height="315" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object>
Watch the video.
nzspokes
12th September 2014, 21:34
Watch the video.
What? :bleh:
*Boot's*
12th September 2014, 21:58
lol… hate forum? buahahahaha…. fuck sake… spending $200 or over that on a helmet (lets face it, polystyrene and a plastic or fiberglass covering) probably cost like 10 dollars kiwi and made by monks in tibet for .50c kiwi all up then were paying $200 plus and still get sore fucking ears afterwards!!!! can anyone make a fucking helmet that protects the head? (yeah this include ears as well as eyes and skull/bones) surely it can't be that friggn hard can it? to have a piece of plastic moulded to pass through air at high speeds and have no whistling or rushing sound inside the hat? They build airplanes they put monkey on the moon, then nuke them…. why can't i buy a god damn helmet where i don't need ear plus to be able to enjoy my rides? YEAH DUCT TAPE!!!! seal up ALL the holes and the whistling stopped…… whole fucking visor fogged up at night at 100 km/h…. wtf!!!!!
nzspokes
12th September 2014, 22:06
lol… hate forum? buahahahaha…. fuck sake… spending $200 or over that on a helmet (lets face it, polystyrene and a plastic or fiberglass covering) probably cost like 10 dollars kiwi and made by monks in tibet for .50c kiwi all up then were paying $200 plus and still get sore fucking ears afterwards!!!! can anyone make a fucking helmet that protects the head? (yeah this include ears as well as eyes and skull/bones) surely it can't be that friggn hard can it? to have a piece of plastic moulded to pass through air at high speeds and have no whistling or rushing sound inside the hat? They build airplanes they put monkey on the moon, then nuke them…. why can't i buy a god damn helmet where i don't need ear plus to be able to enjoy my rides? YEAH DUCT TAPE!!!! seal up ALL the holes and the whistling stopped…… whole fucking visor fogged up at night at 100 km/h…. wtf!!!!!
I wouldnt spend $200 on a helmet. I would get something decent. Even my HJC RPHA10 needs me to use ear plugs.
Guess you fitted the pinlock wrong.
What did the retailer say that you bought it off when you asked them about it?
Gremlin
12th September 2014, 22:10
lol… hate forum? buahahahaha…. fuck sake… spending $200 or over that on a helmet (lets face it, polystyrene and a plastic or fiberglass covering) probably cost like 10 dollars kiwi and made by monks in tibet for .50c kiwi all up then were paying $200 plus and still get sore fucking ears afterwards!!!! can anyone make a fucking helmet that protects the head? (yeah this include ears as well as eyes and skull/bones) surely it can't be that friggn hard can it? to have a piece of plastic moulded to pass through air at high speeds and have no whistling or rushing sound inside the hat? They build airplanes they put monkey on the moon, then nuke them…. why can't i buy a god damn helmet where i don't need ear plus to be able to enjoy my rides? YEAH DUCT TAPE!!!! seal up ALL the holes and the whistling stopped…… whole fucking visor fogged up at night at 100 km/h…. wtf!!!!!
Looks like drunk Boots is back.
Since I only have one head, and head transplants aren't feasible yet, my cheapest helmet so far was probably $350.
*Boot's*
12th September 2014, 22:50
Looks like drunk Boots is back.
Since I only have one head, and head transplants aren't feasible yet, my cheapest helmet so far was probably $350.
lol :) drunk boots or eating Arai heh…. did you read my article about stolen bikes before i deleted it? hrm….. just a few thoughts after "someone else" stole my bike heh…
hrm, wet days….. kiwi biker forum and porn! fk i need a gf.
*Boot's*
12th September 2014, 22:51
I wouldnt spend $200 on a helmet. I would get something decent. Even my HJC RPHA10 needs me to use ear plugs.
Guess you fitted the pinlock wrong.
What did the retailer say that you bought it off when you asked them about it?
Na, helmets noisey as…. givi was better but felt like it was being sucked off my head with speeds over 98 km/h.
The End
12th September 2014, 23:22
Na, helmets noisey as…. givi was better but felt like it was being sucked off my head with speeds over 98 km/h.
I'm gonna get bashed for this, but my current helmet is one of these (http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/helmets-clothing-footwear/helmets/auction-779351565.htm) :brick:
My theory is if it passes the safety standard tests then she'll be right. Although in saying that, there are different standards of safety; guess it depends how much coin you can spend...Some of us aren't part of the #1%ers
The helmet fits fine but is far too noisey for my liking. I've been looking at Scorpion EXO-500 (http://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/scorpion-exo-500-skull-helmet) helmets online and they seem to be a good deal.
$200 delivered to NZ and they have an internal visor and a inflatable cheek pad to get a perfect fit.
I think I'll play around with my neck warmer's position before I purchase another helmet. Foam ear plugs don't cut it, so the only other option would be to get custom ones made but I doubt they'll be much better. :argh:
GrayWolf
13th September 2014, 02:41
I'm gonna get bashed for this, but my current helmet is one of these (http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/helmets-clothing-footwear/helmets/auction-779351565.htm) :brick:
My theory is if it passes the safety standard tests then she'll be right. Although in saying that, there are different standards of safety; guess it depends how much coin you can spend...Some of us aren't part of the #1%ers
The helmet fits fine but is far too noisey for my liking. I've been looking at Scorpion EXO-500 (http://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/scorpion-exo-500-skull-helmet) helmets online and they seem to be a good deal.
$200 delivered to NZ and they have an internal visor and a inflatable cheek pad to get a perfect fit.
I think I'll play around with my neck warmer's position before I purchase another helmet. Foam ear plugs don't cut it, so the only other option would be to get custom ones made but I doubt they'll be much better. :argh:
Simple fix... go to a gunshop, they have proper earplugs of different types.. I have always found pairs that work exactly how I want them to.
nzspokes
13th September 2014, 06:21
I'm gonna get bashed for this, but my current helmet is one of these (http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/helmets-clothing-footwear/helmets/auction-779351565.htm) :brick:
My theory is if it passes the safety standard tests then she'll be right. Although in saying that, there are different standards of safety; guess it depends how much coin you can spend...Some of us aren't part of the #1%ers
Have looked at them as the shop is across from a good bakery. There is nothing in that shop I would buy or use.
Funny how because something has a standards sticker people think its a great product. :facepalm:
All it means it may have passed a simple test. :blink:
haydes55
13th September 2014, 07:57
I'm gonna get bashed for this, but my current helmet is one of these (http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/helmets-clothing-footwear/helmets/auction-779351565.htm) :brick:
My theory is if it passes the safety standard tests then she'll be right. Although in saying that, there are different standards of safety; guess it depends how much coin you can spend...Some of us aren't part of the #1%ers
The helmet fits fine but is far too noisey for my liking. I've been looking at Scorpion EXO-500 (http://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/scorpion-exo-500-skull-helmet) helmets online and they seem to be a good deal.
$200 delivered to NZ and they have an internal visor and a inflatable cheek pad to get a perfect fit.
I think I'll play around with my neck warmer's position before I purchase another helmet. Foam ear plugs don't cut it, so the only other option would be to get custom ones made but I doubt they'll be much better. :argh:
Don't be sold on the air cushion system. After a few months it doesn't hold any air anyway. Don't buy the helmet online..... Although I remember paying $600ish for my exo1000.... Then going home and seeing them for sale in USA to be delivered to my door for under $200USD.
The only time I would buy online would be to replace a good helmet with one exactly the same, so you already know the fit.
As for ear plugs, plugz4Lugz are worth the investment
Big Dog
13th September 2014, 08:44
Don't be sold on the air cushion system. After a few months it doesn't hold any air anyway. Don't buy the helmet online..... Although I remember paying $600ish for my exo1000.... Then going home and seeing them for sale in USA to be delivered to my door for under $200USD.
The only time I would buy online would be to replace a good helmet with one exactly the same, so you already know the fit.
As for ear plugs, plugz4Lugz are worth the investment
Even then a risky proposition. Most quality manufacturers use different head forms for different markets.
HJC for example use 4 head forms and Shoei 6,
Those that don't are normally only intended for their own domestic market.
Either way if you are replacing a fg-15 purchased in NZ with one from the internet was it manufactured for sale in the Americas? Asia-pacific? Europe?
The standards stickers attached are often a good guide but not reliable. A New Zealand supplier may state they want the us head form but the euro build.
They don't manufacture for the NZ market any more but they do for Italy. Would it fit? Just not prepared to send that much coin offshore to find out.
Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.
Ribit
13th September 2014, 08:53
Schuberth helmets target reducing wind noise and are the only ones to make a claim on how loud the helmet is on an unfaired bike at 100km/h
Safety standards say that more than 85dB for extended periods will endanger hearing. Schuberth helmets are rated at this and some are a little bit less. Their flip face is rated at 83dB (i think)
They usually come with pinlock visor as standard.
Ya pay a pretty price for them tho. I think its worth it.
BlackSheepLogic
13th September 2014, 09:34
Since I only have one head, and head transplants aren't feasible yet, my cheapest helmet so far was probably $350.
This just about sums up my thoughts as well. Also, to keep things in perspective, a helmet is good for 5+ years assuming it's not crash tested.
*Boot's*
13th September 2014, 11:09
Simple fix... go to a gunshop, they have proper earplugs of different types.. I have always found pairs that work exactly how I want them to.
Guns to… R.I.P. Kurt Cobain (notice the similaritys? Bain… Co-bain?)
HenryDorsetCase
13th September 2014, 12:01
For me ear plugs guarantee ear infections.
even the disposable ones? they are cheap enough to be worn once and tossed.
Earplugs and pinlock visor. and the whisper kit on the Shoei help. I am going to try and make a curtain for my Bandit because it is really noisy
BMWST?
14th September 2014, 18:08
even the disposable ones? they are cheap enough to be worn once and tossed.
Earplugs and pinlock visor. and the whisper kit on the Shoei help. I am going to try and make a curtain for my Bandit because it is really noisy
Try a solid chin curtain rather than a mesh one like the shoei,but expect visor fogging
The chin curtain made a small dufference I reckon a solid one would be better
I had a raid 2
Mom
14th September 2014, 18:27
Try a solid chin curtain rather than a mesh one like the shoei,but expect visor fogging
The chin curtain made a small dufference I reckon a solid one would be better
I had a raid 2
I get too claustrophobic with a solid chin curtain. Just a good woolen scarf/neck warmer thingy, and being able to breathe with a pin lock worked best for me.
I would have appreciated a function that wiped your nose so I did not deliver the most awesome dew-drop arrival.
I almost typed jew-drop does that make me a bad person?
BMWST?
14th September 2014, 18:31
I get too claustrophobic with a solid chin curtain. Just a good woolen scarf/neck warmer thingy, and being able to breathe with a pin lock worked best for me.
I would have appreciated a function that wiped your nose so I did not deliver the most awesome dew-drop arrival.
I almost typed jew-drop does that make me a bad person?
I agree,but in my quest for bearable noise I reckon a solid chin curtain would be superior to mesh
Mom
14th September 2014, 18:49
I agree,but in my quest for bearable noise I reckon a solid chin curtain would be superior to mesh
Noise is a bastard I agree. I refuse to wear ear plugs, I prefer to hear what is going on around me. I have a Shoei helmet and find it not too bad for noise.
BMWST?
14th September 2014, 21:17
Noise is a bastard I agree. I refuse to wear ear plugs, I prefer to hear what is going on around me. I have a Shoei helmet and find it not too bad for noise.
I cant explain it I had a shoei raid 2,and combinations were always bloody noisy
Urano
14th September 2014, 22:05
Noise is a bastard I agree. I refuse to wear ear plugs, I prefer to hear what is going on around me. I have a Shoei helmet and find it not too bad for noise.
as i said in other topics, earplugs are the only solution for noise.
infections? just keep them clean os use disposable.
and it has been proved that, actually, at speed higher than 50kmh (so at all the speed earplugs are really necessary) YOU HEAR BETTER WITH PLUGS than without.
so, bottom line is that if you are concerned about your hearing and about hearing what is going around you, keep the plugs in a jacket pocket and put them on as soon as you stretch outside city routes...
:niceone:
Big Dog
14th September 2014, 22:18
even the disposable ones? they are cheap enough to be worn once and tossed.
Earplugs and pinlock visor. and the whisper kit on the Shoei help. I am going to try and make a curtain for my Bandit because it is really noisy
Issue is irritation. Lots of scar tissue in canals from the classic kiwi summer. Irritate the scars and an infection follows.
No issue when operating power tools etc but big issue with a bucket on.
Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.
Ripperjon
16th September 2014, 12:16
Issue is irritation. Lots of scar tissue in canals from the classic kiwi summer. Irritate the scars and an infection follows.
No issue when operating power tools etc but big issue with a bucket on.
Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.
Sounds like your best bet then is to try as many different helmets as you can and buy the one that's quietest and flog whatever you have. Personally i'd check their SHARP rating before buying too. (Some of the cheaper helmets are rated higher).
Other than that, you could stick two bits of foam in the ears of your helmet to pad them out a bit.
*For anyone else following the thread, the cheapest earplugs that fit your ears are the best buy. And that goes for earphones too; the cheapest ones that complement the sound of your chosen music source are the best buy. If earbuds fit properly, noise-cancelling is redundant.
Big Dog
16th September 2014, 13:08
Sounds like your best bet then is to try as many different helmets as you can and buy the one that's quietest and flog whatever you have. Personally i'd check their SHARP rating before buying too. (Some of the cheaper helmets are rated higher).
Other than that, you could stick two bits of foam in the ears of your helmet to pad them out a bit.
*For anyone else following the thread, the cheapest earplugs that fit your ears are the best buy. And that goes for earphones too; the cheapest ones that complement the sound of your chosen music source are the best buy. If earbuds fit properly, noise-cancelling is redundant.
I am pretty happy with my helmet.
I have limited options being a 65-66 melon so that is lucky.
I further cut wind noise by having speakers in the speaker cavities which makes a bigger difference than you'd guess. I have 2 identical helmets barring colour and one having a headset. The Bluetooth unit makes a little extra noise from the unit being external. but the sum is quieter than the helmet with no BT unit.
Having a beard cuts noise a lot more than I thought it would but when I shave I really hear the difference.
On longer rides a neck tube or similar might be added or on a whole day trip ear plugs might have an exception made.
Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.
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