Motorcycle Helmets?

Question

Which helmets are the quietest with regard to wind hiss?

Answer 1

Generally, full-face helmets are the quietest.  Flip-up style is noiser, and open-face is also noiser.

The advice to check out earplugsuperstore was a good one.  You can get a package of two pair of each kind of foam plugs they sell and see what's most comfortable and what works best for you.  Everyone's ears are different.

I wear plugs all the time now, unless I'm just going down to the post office or something,  and they do make riding more comfortable and relaxing.

Answer 2

ALL full face helmets get wind noise either thru the face shield, or up-under the helmet

the ONLY difference is some are more quiet than others

don't believe the slick talking motorcycle salesmen when they tell you no wind noise

but the best, most quiet and lightweight helmet is the "Sumoy" but they are expensive at around $400 to $500. he best lower priced helmet is the "KBC Full Force 2"

Answer 3

I second the use of a full face helmet and ear plugs.

I use ear plugs every time I ride my dual sport motorcycle.

I wear ear plugs on longer trips (over 1 hour) when riding my Goldwing.

I like the TaperFit 2 earplugs by E.A.R.

I have worn earplugs for up to 12 hours while riding my Goldwing.  The earplugs really knock down noise fatigue.  Any fatigue while riding is not good.  

I for one NEVER liked or understood the helmet-less, wind in the hair style of riding.  As many know, I am a big proponent of full face helmets and safety gear.  Earplugs are an important part of my safety gear.  Earplugs actually allow me to hear other vehicles on the road by blocking the constant roar from the wind and the road.

BTW, I wear a full face Arai.

Answer 4

I think they all make noise. I learned this after spending $ for a sound upgrade in my helmet. At 80 forget hearing the music. Full face are the best. I think HJC is good value for the money.

Answer 5

If your that worried about noise sell the d**n thing and go back to your cage and leave the bikes to real men

Answer 6

The more expensive helmets usually have better padding and better aerodynamics, but the same vents that give you cooling also make noise.

At freeway speeds, even the quietest helmet can exceed 100dB of constant wind noise.  This is obviously bad for your long term hearing, so I wear earplugs when I ride.

Look around www.earplugsuperstore.com and try some out.  It's a small investment, but when you find what works for you it's a great thing.  I like to use 23dB plugs that don't cancel out quite as much, so I can still hear traffic, sirens, my engine, and a little wind blast, but it's reduced to the level of a conversation instead of a rock concert.

It also helps remove distractions and lessens fatigue, helping me concentrate on what's around me and how the bike feels better.

Answer 7

They all leak

Ive seen $700 ones leak like $300 ones

Answer 8

It depends on the shape of your head and the kind of noise your bike puts out.  For me the Icon is the quietest, but it might not be for you.  You just need to borrow or take your chances.