Ok folks,

Just to preface this post, I'm NOT asking if you should where a helmet or not. I'm just specifically asking about seating position and helmet style.

So, I'm looking at two helmets and I want to know, is riding position a factor when wearing one? I'm looking at the Shoei RF-1200 and the Arai Vector 2. Both are more sport position oriented helmet so I was wondering if the wind has a factor with these? Do you get buffeting?

I've been using a Biltwell Gringo, but as it turns out its not really suited to my head shape (I'm an Intermediate Oval according to Revzilla's site), so I've actually been wearing a helmet that doesn't fit properly. I know, you're asking yourself; how could you not know it didn't fit? My answer: I'm an idiot.

So, looking over the Revzilla's site I think either the Shoei or the Arai would probably be a better fit for me. I actually used to have a Vector 2, BUT I was riding a bike with a more forward position, not a Sportster. Do you think I'll have any issues with these riding upright?

There's also the Simpson Bandit, but I'm not really sure on that one.

 

I ride with. A HJC -11 helmet. Wind buffeting was my issue on my sportster, riding position didn’t matter I still got hit from the wind until I installed a wind screen now I’m good to go.

 

Buy the helmet that fits.
Yes, helmet aero (wind tunnel design) is a science.

But for the speeds a Harley travels, default to my 1st sentence.
Use ear plugs for wind noise, which is more bothersome to me than aero.

Good luck in your decision.

 

 

I've worn a 3/4 helmet for years, but I recently bought a Scorpion full coverage helmet for 3 main reasons:

1) Less wind noise and buffeting on the highway.
2) Warmer and drier in cold/wet weather.
3) More safety and better visibility in traffic (white helmet).

So far, I've been very happy with it. No problems with the upright seating position, and higher speeds are a lot less tiring. I'll probably still use the 3/4 helmet around town in hot weather, but the new helmet definitely has its advantages.

 

Cool, thanks for the feedback guys. I actually used to also have a Scorpion EXO-700 too. I think I'll go back to an Arai Vector 2.

 

The shoei rf 1200 is what I have and is by far the most quiet helmet I have ever owned. The helmet has a great amount of venting and the pinlock is great as well.

 

Just in case anyone is interested, I ended up ordering an Arai Vector 2. After trying on the Shoei RF1200 and the Vector 2, the Arai fit my head a lot better.

 

Love those Gringos.