When it comes to selecting the ideal motorcycle helmet, a lot of things need to be considered. You want something that is comfortable, stylish, and safe. With so many different brands and models on the market, it can be difficult to decide which helmet is right for you. In this article, we will take a look at the Hornet DS and discuss its features, benefits, and drawbacks. We will also answer some common questions about this helmet so that you can decide if it is the right choice for you!
Table of Contents
Shoei Hornet DS
The Hornet DS is a moto helmet that was released in 2016. It is made with an advanced polycarbonate shell. The helmet has an EPS liner and an integrated ventilation system. This helmet comes in three different sizes and six different colors.Features
- Sizes XXS-XXL
- Adv. touring / Dual sport
Shoei Hornet DS Helmet Size Chart
Buyer’s Guide
Types of Motorcycle Helmets
There are three primary types of moto helmets and some additional types.
Full-Face
This is, as the name suggests, a helmet that covers the entire head. These are the most secure type of motorbike helmets since they safeguard your head, face, and jaw in the event of a collision. Many of them also come with features like a visor or built-in sun shield to protect your eyes from the elements while you’re riding.
The downside is that they can be hot and stuffy in warm weather and don’t do well in high winds. They also make it difficult to take a drink or eat while on the road.
Modular
It’s also called flip-up and is a mix of the full-face and open-face helmet. They have a hinged chin bar that can be lifted up.
They’re great for those who need to take breaks during long rides or need to eat and drink while on the road. However, they’re not fully safe since the hinge creates a weak spot that can give way in an accident.
They also tend to be noisier since there are more gaps and openings around the edges.
Open-Face
It leaves the face exposed. They offer good protection for your head and jaw but leave the face vulnerable in an accident.
The upside is that they’re much cooler and more comfortable to wear in warm weather. They also make it easier to eat and drink while on the road. The downside is that they don’t offer as much protection and can be noisy at high speeds.
Half
It is the most basic type. They only cover the top of your head and leave your face and jaw exposed.
The upside to these helmets is that they’re very lightweight and comfortable to wear. But they offer very little protection in an accident.
Off-road
They are designed for riders who participate in off-road riding disciplines like motocross, enduro, or trail riding.
They typically have an extended chin bar to provide more coverage and protection for the face but also have vents and openings to allow riders to stay cool while riding. The downside is that they can be cumbersome to wear if you’re not participating in off-road activities.
Dual-sport
They are designed for riders who participate in both off-road and on-road riding activities. They offer a combination of features from full-face and open-face ones.
Picking the right helmet is an important decision that every rider needs to make. There’s no one right answer for everyone, so it’s important to consider the type of riding you’ll be doing and what features are most important to you. [1]
Safety Standards
Shoei is a Japanese company that’s been in the motorcycle helmet business for over 50 years. In that time, they’ve made a name for themselves as one of the most trusted brands when it comes to rider safety. All of their helmets are DOT and Snell approved, so you can rest assured that you’re getting a quality product.
The Characteristics of the Safest Motorcycle Helmet
When it comes to choosing a moto helmet, safety is always the top priority. But with so many different helmets on the market, how can you know which one is the safest? Here are some of the most important characteristics to look for in a safe motorcycle helmet:
- A good motorcycle helmet should have a strong and durable shell. The stronger the shell, the better protection it will offer in case of an accident.
- It is also important that the helmet has a comfortable and snug fit. A loose fitting helmet can come off in an accident, which would obviously defeat the purpose of wearing one.
- The helmet should also have adequate ventilation to keep your head cool and dry while riding.
These are just a few of the most important things to look for in a motorcycle helmet. Keep these characteristics in mind when shopping for your next helmet, and you can be sure that you’re getting the safest possible option.
Outer Shell
The first thing to consider when looking at motorcycle helmet safety is the outer shell. The shell is the hard outer layer of the helmet that protects your head from impact. A good motorcycle helmet will have a strong and durable shell that can withstand a significant amount of force.
Polycarbonate and fiberglass are two of the most common materials used for motorcycle helmets. Both materials are very strong and offer good protection in case of an accident. However, polycarbonate shells are generally lighter than fiberglass shells, so they may be a better option if you’re worried about weight.
Another thing to keep in mind with the outer shell is ventilation. Many helmets have vents built into them to allow air to circulate and keep your head cool.
Impact Absorbing Liner
The next important safety feature to look for in a motorcycle helmet is an impact absorbing liner. This is the soft inner layer of the helmet that cushions your head in case of an accident.
There are two main types of materials used for impact absorbing liners: polystyrene and expanded polypropylene. Polystyrene is the more common material, but expanded polypropylene offers better protection. It’s also important to make sure that the liner is thick enough to offer adequate protection.
In addition to the type of material used, you’ll also want to consider the fit of the liner. A loose fitting liner can cause the helmet to come off in an accident, so it’s important to make sure that it’s snug.
Padded Comfort Layer
The last thing to consider when choosing a motorcycle helmet is the padded comfort layer. This is the soft outer layer of the helmet that comes in contact with your head. It’s important to make sure that this layer is comfortable, as you’ll be wearing the helmet for long periods of time.
Leather and synthetic fabrics are the most used for comfort layers. Leather is more expensive, but it’s also more breathable and durable. Synthetic fabrics are cheaper, but they’re not as breathable and can cause sweaty heads.
Retention System/Chin Strap
Another important safety feature is a retention system, also known as a chin strap. This is the strap that goes under your chin and keeps the helmet securely in place.
A good one should be adjustable so that you can get a snug fit. It’s also important to make sure that the chin strap is made from high-quality materials.
These are just some of the things to look for when choosing a motorcycle helmet. Safety should always be your top priority when riding, so it’s important to choose a helmet that offers adequate protection.
Vents
As we mentioned before, ventilation is an important aspect of motorcycle helmet safety. Exhaust vents keep your head cool by allowing air to flow and circulate. This is especially critical in hot weather since it helps to keep your head cool.
Most helmets have vents built into the front and back. The number and size of the vents will vary depending on the model, so it’s something to keep in mind when shopping around. If you do a lot of riding in hot weather, make sure to choose a helmet with plenty of vents.
Another thing to consider with vents is wind noise. When riding at high speeds, wind can enter the vents and create a loud noise. This can be very annoying for some riders, so it’s something to keep in mind if you’re looking for a quiet helmet.
Face Shield/Visor
The final safety feature to consider is the face shield or visor. This is the clear piece of plastic that covers your eyes and protects them from debris.
Most motorcycle helmets come with a clear face shield, but you can also find models with tinted or mirrored shields. Tinted shields are great for reducing glare, while mirrored shields can help reduce the amount of sunlight that enters your eyes.
Face shields are usually removable, so you can swap them out if you want to change the look of your helmet. Some riders also like to purchase multiple shields so they have options depending on the conditions.
Cheek Pads
In addition to the other safety features we’ve discussed, another important aspect of motorcycle helmets is comfort. After all, you’ll be wearing your helmet for long periods of time, so it’s important to make sure that it’s comfortable.
One way to improve the comfort of your helmet is to choose one with removable cheek pads. These allow you to adjust the fit of your helmet and make it more comfortable for extended wear.
Some riders also like to purchase extra sets of cheek pads in different thicknesses. This way, they can customize the fit of their helmet even further and ensure that it’s always comfortable.
How to Find Your Motorcycle Helmet Size
To find your motorcycle helmet size, you will need to take three measurements of your head. First, measure the circumference of your head using a tape measure. Second, measure the distance from your forehead to the back of your head. Finally, measure the distance from ear to ear across your temples. Once you have these three numbers, consult a sizing chart for guidance on what size helmet you should purchase.
If you are still unsure about what size motorcycle helmet to buy after consulting a sizing chart, it is always best to err on the side of buying a larger helmet rather than a smaller one. This is because it is easier to make a larger helmet fit snugly on your head with adjustable straps and pads than it is to make a smaller helmet fit comfortably. [3]
Shoei Hornet DS
Fit, Internal Shape and Liner
The helmet is made from a fiberglass composite material and has a dual sport design. The helmet has a visor, chin bar, and an integrated sun shield.
The Hornet DS has a round internal shape and will fit riders with a rounder head shape best. The helmet has an EPS liner that can be removed for cleaning. The liner is comfortable and does a good job of managing moisture.
Overall, it is a comfortable and well-ventilated motorcycle helmet that is perfect for both on and off-road riding.
Face Shield, Eye Port and Outward Visibility
The Hornet DS has a clear visor that is scratch resistant. The helmet also comes with an integrated sun shield that can be easily deployed and retracted. The sun shield does a good job of blocking the sun without causing too much distortion.
The eye port is large and offers good outward visibility. The helmet has a chin bar that protrudes slightly, but this does not impact visibility too much.
Ventilation and Air Flow
The Hornet DS has a good ventilation system with four intake vents and two exhaust vents. The helmet is effective at keeping the rider’s head cool, even in hot weather conditions.
The helmet does a good job of managing moisture and does not fog up easily. However, if you are riding in cold weather conditions, it is recommended to crack open the visor to prevent the shield from fogging up.
Sound Levels
The Hornet DS is a relatively quiet helmet. The wind noise is minimal and the helmet does a good job of dampening road noise.
Helmet Weight
One of the best features of the Hornet DS is its Dual Sport design. This means that it’s just as at home on the street as it is on the trail. Whether you’re commuting to work or hitting the trails for a weekend of adventure, this helmet has you covered.
Another great feature is its ventilation system. It has two intake vents in the front and two exhaust vents in the back, so you can keep cool even when things start to heat up.
FAQ
Can you use a Shoei Hornet without a peak?
The Shoei Hornet DS Helmet comes with a detachable peak, so you can use it without the peak if you prefer. [4]
Is Shoei a good helmet?
Shoei is a very good helmet brand and the Hornet DS Helmet is a great example of their quality products.
It is a great choice for those looking for a high-quality, well-made helmet. It is comfortable to wear and has a detachable peak, making it versatile for different riding styles. If you are in the market for a new helmet, the Hornet DS Helmet should definitely be on your list.
Is Shoei Italian?
No, Shoei is a Japanese company. However, they do have a subsidiary in Italy called AGV SpA.[5]
Where is the Shoei helmet made?
All of Shoei’s motorcycle helmets are designed and manufactured in Japan. The company has been in business since 1959 and has always been based in Tokyo.
Shoei has a reputation for making high-quality products, and the company’s motorcycle helmets are no exception. All of Shoei’s helmets are made from premium materials and meet or exceed all applicable safety standards.
The company offers various helmet styles to suit every type of rider, from racing professionals to weekend warriors. Regardless of your riding style, there is a Shoei helmet that will protect you without sacrificing comfort or style.
If you are looking for a top-of-the-line motorcycle helmet, the Hornet DS is a great option. This helmet is packed with features that provide superior protection and comfort, making it a top choice for serious riders.
Related Video:Shoei Hornet DS Helmet Review at RevZilla.com
Conclusion
Shoei Hornet DS Helmet is a great helmet that offers plenty of features and protection. It’s comfortable to wear and easy to use, making it a great choice for any rider. If you’re looking for a new helmet, the Hornet DS is definitely worth considering. Thanks for reading! I hope this guide has been helpful. Ride safe!
References:
- https://www.motorcyclelegalfoundation.com/types-of-motorcycle-helmets/
- https://www.compliancegate.com/helmet-safety-standards-united-states/
- https://www.halfords.com/motoring/how-to-guides/how-to-measure-your-motorcycle-helmet.html
- https://www.bennetts.co.uk/bikesocial/reviews/products/helmets/shoei-hornet-adv-crash-helmet-review
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shoei