Thursday, November 4, 2010

Yamaha Confirms Lorenzo for Two Years

Motorcycle News

Yamaha Confirms Lorenzo for 2011-2012

Jorge Lorenzo

October 2, 2010 - Yamaha announced today that it has reached an agreement with Jorge Lorenzo for the Spaniard to remain with the factory for the next two years.

23-year-old Lorenzo, who joined Yamaha in 2008, has won an impressive seven races so far this season and is on target to take his first premier-class crown.  He currently leads the standings by 56 points with five rounds remaining.

Managing Director of Yamaha Motor Racing Lin Jarvis said "We are extremely happy that we have reached an agreement with Jorge to remain a Factory Yamaha rider for 2011 and 2012. 

"Since he joined three years ago he has made great progress and has improved himself every year to go from fourth place and ?best rookie' in 2008, to second place in 2009, to challenging for the MotoGP championship title in 2010.

"I am particularly pleased to finally get the agreement in place here in Japan because it will now enable Jorge to focus all of his efforts and concentration in the coming weeks to try to secure his first MotoGP class rider's title.  Being only 23 years old I believe Jorge has a long career ahead of him and hopefully he can win many world titles with Yamaha.

"Jorge will be joined by Ben Spies in the Factory Team next year and with these two exceptionally talented hungry young riders we will start the 2011 season with the most exciting and competitive team in the paddock."

Lorenzo added "My first choice was always to stay here with Yamaha and I am very glad that this will happen.  I feel happy here; I have good people around me, a strong relationship with Yamaha and a great bike.

"I want to say thanks again to Lin Jarvis, who has always supported me.  Now we are focused on winning the championship but I am already excited about next season.  I know that Ben and I can do a great job for Yamaha and I want to thank them for their belief in me."  (Text and Photos Courtesy Yamaha Racing.  Edited by webBikeWorld).

Harley-Davison Finalizes MV Agusta Sale

August 6, 2010 -- Harley-Davidson reported today that they have finalized the sale of MV Agusta to Claudio Castiglioni and his wholly owned holding company, MV Agusta Motor Holding, S.r.l. as of this date.

Castiglioni is the former owner of the Italian motorcycle maker and has served as MV Agusta's chairman since 2008, when Harley-Davidson acquired the company.

In October 2009, Harley-Davidson announced its intention to sell MV Agusta as part of a new corporate strategy to focus resources on the Harley-Davidson brand.  Since then, Harley-Davidson has held discussions with various potential MV Agusta buyers.

"MV Agusta is a proud brand and we wish Mr. Castiglioni and the company's employees well," said Harley-Davidson President and Chief Executive Officer Keith Wandell.

"Our decision to divest MV Agusta reflects our strategy to focus our efforts and our investment on the Harley-Davidson brand, as we believe this provides an optimal path to long-term growth."

Moto2 Motorcycle Photos

June 20, 2010 - Interesting set of photos and close-ups by Honda of all the Moto2 machines.

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Motorcycle Technology - Emissions:  The EPA has proposed to adopt California emissions standards Nationwide by 2006; new road motorcycles sold nationwide will be required to meet strict emissions standards set by the state of California beginning in 2006 under rules being proposed by the federal Environmental Protection Agency, the AMA reports; this was not proposed in their Sep 2001 decision  |  Read "Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking - Control of Emissions from Non-road Large Spark-Ignition Engines, Recreational Engines (Marine and Land-Based), and Highway Motorcycles (signed November 20, 2000)" on the EPA site The Motorcycle Design Association:  Here's their new website;  corporate members include Buell and Kawasaki and also include The Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California Web-based GPS Address Finder:  Check this out -- locates GPS coordinates and displays a map for any address in the USA Proof That Cell Phones Distract Drivers:  Read this interesting article about a Carnegie Mellon study that claims to prove humans cannot converse on cell phones without becoming distracted from driving  |  Drivers on cell phones cause many accidents, according to this article  |  Drive Now, Talk Later has links to studies on the dangers of cell phone use while driving  |  A study (.pdf file) entitled Fatal Distraction? A Comparison of the Cell-Phone Driver and the Drunk Driver by David L. Strayer, Frank A. Drews, & Dennis J. Crouch at the Department of Psychology, University of Utah  |  Cell phones are the "Number 1 Driver Distraction", according to this article Online and Print Motorcycle Magazines:  The wBW review of worldwide motorcycle print magazines  |  Our favorite online motorcycle magazines

Motorcycle Radio:  Ride! features Canadian and international industry movers and shakers, professional racers, adventurers, advocates, custom builders, and a host of others passionate about two wheels  |  INBRadio has various Internet radio programs for motorcyclists  |  Moto Radio claims to be "World's First Full Time Motorcycle Radio Station"

Motorcycle Land Speed Record Racing:  Here's a website with everything you wanted to know about land speed records and more.


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Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Machineart Moto Avant Fender Extender Review

Machineart Moto Avant Review

Machineart Moto Avant Review

wBW Quick Look by HBC for webBikeWorld.com

More:  wBW Reviews Home  |  Owner Comments (Below)

Summary:  The Machineart Moto Avant fender extender is the newest member of the MudSling family.

Like the original product, it is nearly flawless in its design, fit and function and therefore, a most worthy addition.

There is now no excuse not to provide simple and extremely effective protection for both the back and front areas of BMW R1200 GS, GS Adventure and F650/800 GS motos.

See Also:  Machineart Moto MudSling Review

Introduction
Just before leaving town to attend the BMW RA International Rally, held in Pownal Vermont at the end of July, I realized that the Machineart Moto website was showing the new MudSling Avant product.

Timing is everything, as they say...

The Editor had just published the original MudSling article and Machineart Moto was in attendance at the rally and keeping busy installing the MudSling products on a wide variety of motorcycles, two- and three-wheeled.

Needless to say, an Avant fender extender now adorns each of our F800GS motorcycles.

The Avant is a simple front fender extender that use three clamp mounts to tightly secure it to the moulded edges of the stock plastic fender.  A prominent flare on each side of the moulding adds extra width to the extender just where it is needed.

Form
The Avant is injection moulded in polypropylene to duplicate the feel and texture of the stock BMW front fender.  The BMW F650/F800GS variant adds 14.6 cm or 5.75 in. of length while the R1200 product adds 13.3 cm or 5.25 in. of length to the bottom of the stock fender.

Between the increased length and the rearward angled flaring on the outer edges that add width, protection for the lower half of the engine including some relatively well-exposed components and the exhaust system is increased significantly.

Three self-locking screw clamps with angled "claws" grip the inner edge of the stock fender to provide a secure mount without drilling any holes or adding bracketry (photo below).  With its precise fit, the Avant is a seamless extension to the front fender -- only the heads of the three small mounting screws reveal how it is held in place.

Machineart Moto Avant - Mounting Details

Fit and Fitment
Fitment of the Avant on the front fender is even less of a challenge than installing its big brother on the rear.

Reading the provided instruction sheet and then doing a run through of the screws with the threaded inserts of the mounting brackets is recommended; this makes starting the screws much easier while actually installing the Avant.

Each underside mounting point on the Avant has raised ridges that act as guides to properly orient them and in doing so, facilitating installation.

Two approaches can be taken to mounting the Avant.  The first is to hold the accessory in place and mount the middle or lower centre screw first, followed by the left and right mounts.  All three should be given a final tightening once the accessory is being held in place by the mounts.

A second approach is to loosely install the brackets on the Avant and then position it up against the fender.  Make sure the clamps are oriented so that the angled claw grabs the inner lip of the fender in pincer fashion, rotate each clamp so it sits between the guide ridges, and tighten each screw.

Machineart Moto Avant - Before and After

Function
The MudSling Avant is utterly effective in keeping any sort of dirt -- large, small, wet or dry -- off the lower half of the engine and exhaust pipes.

Pre-Avant, the front curved surface of the large aluminium BMW engine guard received the brunt of everything thrown off the front wheel: now it stays quite clean, testament to how well the extender works.

Front fender guards or extenders are not new, but the Avant is the perfect size and shape for the F800GS.  The fact that it goes on easily and looks great is bonus.

After two road trips and some off-road excursions, the Avant units remain firmly in place although extremely dirty...like the rest of the machines.  My only observation is that the heads of the machine screws on one F800GS are showing a bit of rust even though the screws themselves are fine.

Andrew of Machineart Moto has confirmed that the original black oxide coated screws could rust, but the screw sets are now black zinc plated to resolve the rusting issue.

Conclusion
Like its bigger rear-mounted sibling, the Avant does exactly what it is intended to do.  It is undoubtedly one of the easiest and best accessories that one could install.

The Avant 8/6 for the BMW F800 and F650GS models adds 5.75 inches of length.  The Avant 12 for the R1200GS and GS Adventure models adds 5.25 in of extra length.

See Also:  Machineart Moto MudSling Review

wBW Product Review:  Machineart Moto Avant

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Shoei Qwest Review

Shoei Qwest Motorcycle Helmet ReviewShoei Qwest Motorcycle Helmet Review
by Rick K. for webBikeWorld.com

More:  wBW Reviews Home  |  wBW Motorcycle Helmet Reviews  |  Owner Comments (Below)

Summary
Smooth styling, sleek appearance, outstanding quality...  The Qwest build quality is a benchmark helmet that others should aspire to.

Background 
I used to think of Shoei as a very conservative helmet manufacturer, basking somewhat in the shadow of Arai.  Shoei execs will probably shudder at that comparison I'm sure, but plodding along for half-decade or so with the X-11 and RF-800/RF-1000 series and milquetoasty offerings like the TZ-R just doesn't cut it (although the Qwest may be the TZ-R's replacement).

But then a sneaky Shoei staffer plumbed a keg of Red Bull into the office water supply.  That's my only explanation, because within the space of a year we not only have a completely revised RF-series with the RF-1100, we also get the Shoei X-12 replacement for the antique X-11.  And now along comes a brand-new helmet series with the Shoei Qwest.

Here's the bottom line folks: the Shoei Qwest is everything the RF-1100 and the X-12 should be and could be. 

Both of those helmets are, quite frankly, overpriced and overweight, but the Qwest is a marvel.  As far as I'm concerned, anyone choosing an RF-1100 would be much better off with a Qwest.  The Qwest has the same or better build quality; the vents are less fussy; it's quieter; it's lighter and, best of all, it's $155.00 cheaper!

So what does Shoei do with this marvel of modern noggin protection?  They handicap it with a "Touring" label.  Ugh!  I can see the advertising byline now: "The Shoei Qwest. Too old for a Sportbike? We have the helmet for you!"

It's a conspiracy, Sportbike riders, and here's my theory: Shoei is doing this on purpose to steer you away from what is probably the best helmet in their lineup.  It's some type of weird reverse psychology marketing strategy...like calling a Durian a fruit.

Obviously, they have all those unsold RF's and X's in the warehouse, and when motorcyclists find out how good the Qwest is in comparison, Shoei will end up with...a lot of rotten Durians on their hands.  And there is nothing -- absolutely nothing -- in this world that is worse than a rotten Durian.

But now you know -- the secret is out.  Uh-oh...I hear someone in the bushes.  They're out there.  They're watching me.  They're coming for me....

Shoei Qwest - Top View

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Shoei Qwest Paint, Graphics and Overall Quality
Granted, I'm working with just one sample here, and in the prosaically named "Light Silver" at that.  So it's difficult to generalize on the quality of the paint and graphics across the entire Qwest spectrum.

But about those graphics...  It's probably a good thing that the first batch of helmets released for sale is in Touring shades of gray.  The Qwest graphics displayed on the Shoei website look pretty awful to me; obviously another factor in the plot to keep Sportbike riders from the helmet they really need. 

This is one time I'd advise to keep the extra 100 bucks in your pocket and buy a Qwest in a solid or metallic because the Qwest actually looks much better in that dress; it compliments the modern architecture of this sleek and inspired design.  Too bad they don't offer more solid colors -- perhaps a bright metallic orange or high-viz yellow?

Let me digress here slightly.  When considering the Qwest, it's almost like Shoei deconstructed the motorcycle helmet and completely redesigned it, putting it back together again with 21st Century mojo.  Every little piece on this helmet is familiar but just seems better, more intuitive and of higher quality than probably any other helmet we've seen in 2010.

And I'm only using that weasel word "probably" because it's still only October and, in theory at least, it is possible that we might find a helmet to top this one before the final quarter is out.

Anyway, that's the vibe I get from the Qwest.  It seems to make other helmets feel instantly old-fashioned-looking.  The more I handle it, the longer I wore it, the more I realized how different -- yet similar -- this helmet is to everything that's come before.

All of the parts work in a sort of harmony, from the overall design to the sturdy-feeling clearcoat to the ingenious face shield mechanism that maintains a tight seal against the surround-me eye port gasket.

But probably the best feature of the Qwest is the liner.  The padding and choice of plush fabric is everything we have been hoping for after a hot summer of too-scratchy helmet liners, such as the rather disappointing material used in the new RX-Q. 

We thought perhaps some new environmental law or material shortage was preventing the manufacturers from producing that nice baby-soft fleece of old, but Shoei must have scored a new supplier, because this is exactly how motorcycle helmet lining should feel.

OK, I'm gushing here.  You get the point.  I like it.

Score:  I'll give the Shoei Qwest an "Outstanding" for paint (in solid colors), clearcoat and overall fit and finish.  Just don't stare too long at the versions with graphics, you'll start to feel queasy.  See the Summary Table at the end of this page for a description of our rating system.

Shoei Qwest Slide Show

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Shoei Qwest Helmet Fit, Internal Shape and Liner
Shoei says the Qwest has a slightly different internal shape than the RF-1100 or X-12.  I'll buy that; the Qwest feels just a touch more round inside than any of the RF- or X- series helmets I've worn.  In fact, unlike the RF-series, the Qwest is actually a pretty good fit on my very round head shape, with just the tiniest amount of breathing room along the center of my flat forehead.

The size large Qwest feels snug along the sides, and overall I'd have to say that it's another good fit replacement for my Arai Quantum (review) -- that is, the original Quantum with the now-discontinued Arai Round Oval fit.

I'm very relieved at the news, because it took me so long to find the Quantum, which was the only helmet that actually fit me.  Now I have both the RX-Q (review) and the Qwest to choose from.  Both of them fit my head shape and both are much better helmets than the old Quantum anyway.

I can't imagine there will be many motorcycle riders who won't fit in a Qwest, and the cheek pads are removable for possible customization with six different sized pads available.  OK, so the complete liner isn't removable, but when is the last time you had a liner out of a helmet?

The lining in the Qwest is beautifully applied with some of the tightest tolerances and highest quality I've ever found in a helmet.  The padding is also Chez Posh DeLuxe, with dual-layer foam and that very plush and cushy lining material that we thought was a thing of the past.  It's the type of interior that Arai used to offer and which I expected to find in the RX-Q but didn't.

Most helmets that are put through the webBikeWorld evaluation process, including helmets at nearly twice the cost of the Qwest, usually have one or two flaws in the liner.  Loose threads perhaps or material not correctly molded, shaped or sewn for the interior curvature or a mis-alignment between the fabric lining and the EPS are very common issues. 

Not in the Qwest though; I have actually spent more than a few minutes shining the all-powerful Clearwater "Andie" flashlight inside, marveling at the construction.  Nerdy, I know, but part of the job.

For some reason, it's become more difficult recently to pin down helmet shapes and the Qwest is yet another example that seemingly spans the "Neutral" and "Slight Round" categories.  Thus, I made a new graphic for the Shape Estimator chart shown above so we can span two categories if necessary.

The chin strap on the Qwest uses the same comfortable material for padding to protect the neck and the helmet has the light, simple and elegant double D-ring attachment system with a heavy-duty snap for the loose end.

The liner also has open ear pockets with a plastic backing towards the outside.  The pockets are slightly indented and should be the right size to fit a variety of motorcycle intercom speakers.

More information on helmet fit can be found in the webBikeWorld Motorcycle Helmet FAQ page, along with the chart that lists the helmet weights of webBikeWorld reviewed helmets and also by shape on the webBikeWorld Motorcycle Helmet Shapes page.

Score:  I'll give the Shoei Qwest an "Outstanding" for an internal shape that should fit a wide majority of head shapes, a very comfortable liner, padding and material and overall quality.

Shoei Qwest - Top Vent
The Shoei Qwest has a single and rather small top vent with a small profile design.
Shoei Qwest - Chin Vent
The chin vent flows a large volume of air up through the breath guard.webBikeWorld Amazon.com Motorcycle Store!

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Shoei Qwest Face Shield, Eye Port and Visibility
The Qwest provides excellent visibility, with better than average vertical sight lines and slightly better than average lateral vision. 

The helmet also uses a newly designed face shield, according to Shoei.  The CW-1 shield is claimed to be "both wider and taller than the CX-IV that it replaces".  Shoei also claims that the shield filters 99% of UVA and UVB light.

We measured the face shield at 2.21 mm thick and it has excellent optical qualities.  It is also labeled as meeting or exceeding the VESC-8 face shield standard.  Shoei also said the face shield is ready for the special Shoei Pinlock anti-fog insert (review), although there are no Pinlock installation posts on this one so I'm assuming the Shoei version of the Qwest Pinlock is the stick-on type.

Other Shoei face shields have responded very nicely to our favorite anti-fog coating, the easy-to-use Clarity DeFog It (review) and I'd expect this one to be no different.  The weather here is just starting to turn to a point where we'll be able to evaluate the original equipment anti-fog prevention treatments once again.

The Qwest uses the Shoei "Q.R.S.A." (Quick Release Self-Adjusting) base plate rotating mechanism for the face shield.  This is an excellent system, albeit with a few more moving parts than other types.  It is spring-loaded, so it helps keep the face shield tight against the 360-degree full-surround eye port gasket.

The sealing capability and the gasket keeps out all of the water that might otherwise enter the helmet and the Qwest passed our drip test with flying colors.  The spring-loaded mechanism works by keeping pressure on the face shield against the gasket, so water that runs along the top of the shield is directed past the eye port itself and right out the sides of the helmet.  Also, the carefully molded shield has a slight inward chamfer at the top to further reduce the ingress of water.

The only slight downside to this system is that the owner should be a bit cautious with removal and installation of the face shield, making sure to align the two small tabs on the shield to their receivers in the base plate.

The Qwest also has a face shield lock and lift tab on the lower left side.  When it is pressed upwards towards the rear of the lever, the face shield is locked in place.  The center position is "neutral" and the lower position opens the face shield forward approximately 2 mm to the "city position".  This is just enough to allow some defogging and ventilation.

Even the main lift tab on the Qwest got a re-think.  It has an interesting three-dimensional curved shape that actually feels good because it closely fits the shape of the rider's finger.  The tight tolerances used on the face shield system and the location of the lift tab result in a slight torque or twist in the shield as it's raised or lowered, but this is a very small price to pay for what is otherwise a benchmark system.

webBikeWorld Opinionator - Shoei Qwest Outward Visibility

Score:  I'll give the Shoei Qwest another "Outstanding" rating for the overall quality and operation of the face shield and eye port.

Shoei Qwest - Rear Exhaust Vents
Dual low-drag independent rear exhaust vent system on the Shoei Qwest.
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Ventilation and Air Flow
Shoei claims to have spent a great deal of time in the wind tunnel to optimize the shape and ventilation of the Qwest, but the work wasn't quite as successful as I'd hoped.

Starting on the inside, the EPS liner is channeled to allow the air to pass through and out the dual rear exhaust vents (both independently operated) and there are a total of 8 very clean vent holes that can be seen in the EPS in the top of the helmet.

Those holes are an indication of the quality of this helmet; most manufacturers simply pop a couple of holes in the EPS without chamfering or without even cleaning out the bits of foam.  It usually looks pretty ugly and more than once we've had to use a pick to clean out the holes to allow the air to flow correctly through. 

Another common problem is when the spaces in the helmet liner aren't lined up correctly and the liner blocks the very holes that are supposed to allow ventilation.  Not so in the Qwest.  It's a small detail but a very telling one -- the holes are perfectly round, with perfectly trimmed edges, perfectly lined up in rows where the spaces in the liner are placed to allow the air to flow through. 

Even the EPS is treated with some type of coating or paint on the inside, another small touch that lends an air of high quality and poshness (is that a word?) to this helmet.  Look inside a Qwest and look inside any other helmet and I'll guarantee you'll be impressed.

So does this attention to detail give the helmet top-notch ventilation?  Well, yes and no.  The new thinking by Shoei also meant a redesign of the top vent, and although it looks modern, with a shape somewhat like Gort's viewport and the on/off switch has a quality tactile feel, the actual vent under the switch is so tiny that I can't even find it using a flashlight.

So the air comes into the helmet -- sort of -- but not at the volume I would like and, in fact, the top of my head can get warm when riding on hot days.  Besides that, the vent isn't all that quiet, making a continuous noise that sounds exactly like someone's tearing of a very long piece of paper in the next cubicle.  The volume and frequency remains the same whether I'm sitting upright or leaned forward.

The chin vent uses a very positive-feeling cover that clicks open and closed.  It directs air through the top of the chin bar only; the Qwest has no vents through the chin bar itself.  This is good news perhaps for intercom users; install the chin curtain provided in the box (along with a breath guard and I'm not sure why they didn't install these at the factory) and you should have a pretty decent sound chamber for a microphone.

The ventilation provided by the chin vent is very good, flowing air on to the back of the face shield and from there on to the rider's face.

Shoei also claims to have molded channels on either side of the liner for eyeglass wearers, but I can't find them.  I can slip a pair of thin wire frame eyeglasses inside but my everyday eyeglasses don't fit.  However, this is highly variable and dependent upon eyeglass type and the match between the rider's head shape and the helmet.

webBikeWorld Opinionator - Shoei Qwest Ventilation

Score:  I'll give the Qwest a "Very Good" rating overall for ventilation with a wish that the top vent intake was able to fully exploit the internal ventilation system.

Shoei Qwest - Face Shield Release Mechanism
The face shield release mechanism is spring-loaded to maintain eye port sealing integrity.
Shoei Qwest Helmet Liner
The Shoei Qwest helmet liner material is very comfortable and nicely padded.

Shoei Qwest Sound Levels
Overall, I'd have to say that the Qwest is a very quiet helmet, with excellent noise control.  Shoei goes to great lengths to describe the work that has gone into this aspect of the helmet.

The noises that can be heard are very muted; the "tearing paper" noise coming from the top vent is there, but not bothersome.

Shoei also talks about the attention paid to the lower part of the helmet, an area that can be the cause of increased noise levels.  The design of the helmet and the neck roll does seem to block the buffeting noises commonly heard, but I was surprised to have a constant low-pitched wind rushing noise coming from the bottom of the helmet that remains at about the same volume whether I'm riding behind a windscreen or not.

Now this may be due to my neck and head shape combined with the helmet fit, and certainly noise levels can be highly subjective and will vary based on many unusual factors, up to and including, believe it or not, the type of clothing the rider is wearing.

So again, overall the Qwest is a relatively quiet helmet but not as quiet as I'd like.  Also, individual perception of noise levels is extremely variable.

webBikeWorld Opinionator - Shoei Qwest Noise LevelsNote that our helmet evaluations are normally a combined effort of several riders over time, on different types of motorcycles with and without windscreens.  Evaluators wear correctly fitted, high quality earplugs (even when evaluating motorcycle intercom systems) and (usually) a helmet liner.  It is strongly recommended that hearing protection is used when riding a motorcycle.  See the wBW Earplugs and Hearing Protection page for more information on choosing and wearing earplugs. 

Note also that perceived noise levels will vary, depending on the individual.  Noise can be caused by many factors, including helmet fit; the type of motorcycle and windscreen; wind speed and direction and even the type of clothing that is being worn.  For more information on helmet noise, visit the wBW Motorcycle Helmet Noise page.

Score:  I'll give the Qwest a "Very Good" overall rating for noise control.

wBW Video:  Shoei Qwest Helmet Helmet Weight
The Qwest helmet shell is made with Shoei's "AIM+" fiberglass composite, claimed to include "organic fibers that are so strong they can only be cut with a laser".  The shell is very stiff, as you can see in the video, yet the helmet is light in weight.

The size large Qwest shown here weighs 1648 grams, currently placing it as 77 out of 149 helmets weighed by webBikeWorld.com.  We're mixing chalk and cheese here because some of the helmets weighed are size XL and some size L and we have very few size L comparisons in the 150 gram range.

However, the Qwest compares very nicely with other size L helmets, such as the Bell Star 2010 at 1628 grams; the Craft R2 Aerospeed which, at 1660 grams, was considered a lightweight helmet when it arrived.  Also for comparison, the Shoei X-12 in size XL weighed 1766 grams and the XL Shoei RF-1100 weighed 1746 grams.

Shoei uses an amazing 5 different shell sizes to span the range of Qwest head sizes.  This means that each head size should have a shell that is proportional, helping to avoid the "fishbowl" or "astronaut" helmet effect of a too-large helmet on a small head.

We don't have the shell-to-head size chart for the Qwest, but I'd have to assume it's the same as the RF-1100 and X-12:

Shoei Qwest Shell Size Chart (Estimated)The size large Qwest is listed as fitting a 59-60 cm head and I'd have to agree, even though my 60.5 round shaped head fits comfortably, if a bit tight on the sides (which is actually preferred as a 'race' fit).

The helmet is perfectly balanced and seems to slice smoothly through the air with no undue buffeting or lift that I have noticed.

All of these weights are available on the wBW Motorcycle Helmet Weights page, along with a chart that lists the helmets by weight and shape on the wBW Motorcycle Helmet Shapes page.

Score:  I'll give the Shoei Qwest an "Excellent" rating for relatively low weight compared to other helmets.

Miscellaneous
The Qwest meets both DOT and Snell 2010 standards when sold in the U.S.  I'm not sure, but the Qwest may be a North American helmet only; I don't see an equivalent sold in Europe.

The helmet carries a five-year warranty or alternatively a seven-year warranty from the date of manufacture, whichever comes first.

The wBW Overall Opinionator - Shoei QwestOutstanding overall quality.

Very comfortable liner and padding.

Solid shell feel and Snell 2010 approved.

Very good fit.

Excellent face shield operation.

Five-year warranty.

Better value than the RF-1100.

Upper ventilation could be improved.

Not as quiet as expected.

Buy from Revzilla and help support webBikeWorld! Conclusion
The Shoei Qwest is one of the nicest helmets I've worn in the 10+ years of webBikeWorld.com reviews.  It combines sleek and modern good looks with class-leading quality and comfort and noise control; solid and secure operation; and an excellent face shield system.  This is all simple stuff that very few get completely right, thus the "benchmark" label.

Combine all that with a price that is currently $155.00 less (list) than the Shoei RF-1100 and throw in the Shoei five-year warranty and you have a helmet that is both a benchmark and which surely is a front-runner for the 2010 webBikeWorld Helmet of the Year Award!

webBikeWorld Review:  Shoei Qwest Helmet

Sizes:  XS to XXL  Shell Sizes:  5.Note:  The product featured in this review was provided by RevZilla (more).

Ratings Scale:  For reference, our ratings scale is subjective and ranges from Unacceptable to Poor, Neutral, Very Good, Excellent and Outstanding.  Note: the middle "Good" rating was changed to "Neutral" in November of 2009.

Bookmark and Share Note:  For informational use only.  All material and photographs are Copyright ? webWorld International, LLC - 2000-2010.  All rights reserved.  See the webBikeWorld? Site Info page.  NOTE:  Product specifications, features and details may change or differ from our descriptions.  Always check before purchasing.  Read the Terms and Conditions!

?Reader Comments and Owner Feedback

Please send comments to
Comments are ordered from most recent to oldest.
Not all comments will be published (details).  Comments may be edited for clarity prior to publication.

From "B.M." (10/10):  "This may sound odd, but I'm almost glad the venting on the Qwest isn't very good.  Why?  Riding in the mid-Atlantic, I consider venting very important. Riding in 90+ degree temps and 80+ % humidity, poor venting leaves me feeling weak.

I've got a very narrow head.  The only helmet I've found that really fits me well is the Arai Profile.  No way the Qwest is going to fit me.  So if the venting was as good as the rest of the helmet, I'd be insanely jealous.  Now I can just ignore it.

For the life of me, I can't understand why no manufacturer but Arai understands that not all humans have the same head shape.

Thanks again for all the great work."

From "Q" (10/10):  "I just saw your review, I had to say I got the flat grey color Qwest 2 weeks ago, I was at the only dealer and they were just putting them on the shelf as he got them in.  I heard about the new Qwest but didn't know anything about them.

I put it on and was sold right there, it is the most comfortable and the best helmet I ever owned and I have owned plenty, I have been wearing it every day and will probably throw away my only 1 year old Scorpion.  I have to agree this Shoei is built way better than the Scorpion and worth the price, I even got it at $40.00 off from the list, which is even a better deal, I thought he was making a mistake when he sold me it.  Love it!"

From "M.R." (10/10):  "I have never found a review on your website that I completely agree with.  However that changed with your review of the Shoei Qwest.  Being an Asian from India, I am a longtime Arai Quantum 2 user (change shields twice a day - never broken a sidepod) but was terribly disappointed with the RX-Q, it's less than plush liner and unjustifiable price left me looking for a replacement elsewhere.

I liked the Shoei RF-1100, tried it but was put off by the busy looking collection of vents in the rear and thought I'll soldier along with my Quantum 2 for a little while longer.

I happened to visit Coleman Powersports in Virginia a week ago, tried the new Qwest (in Black) and an RF-1100 back to back and was quite honestly stunned.  At least for my head the Qwest is the better helmet.  It also seems well put together, comfortable, well balanced and has good outward visibility.

At that price it's a definite winner!  The lack of a fully removable liner is no biggie for me.  Like Bruce Porter of Arai advises - it will do your helmet no harm if once a year you soak it in a bucket of water, swish it around for a few minutes and then let it air dry to remove the buildup of perspiration and oils.

The only downer is that Shoei chooses not to sell their helmets in the hi-viz lime green / yellow color like Scorpion and now Arai.  Perhaps you can use your considerable influence to convince then to come out with one in the next two weeks before I run out and buy one."

From "D.E." (10/10):  "I think you got a bit carried away in your review of the Shoei Qwest.  I won't qwestion the exceptional Shoei build quality, which is probably the best in the world (and I say that despite favouring Arai helmets). But I have a few disagreements:

1. The Styling.  I agree it looks good, especially in metal silver, a colour that makes other helmets look just awful.  But is it so much different from its predecessor, the TR-Z?  That was a handsome guy too in uni colours, and I don't think the Qwest looks much more than a TR-Z with a few plastic pieces.

2. The liner.  You state it is removable, but it isn't.  At least the European version has no removable liner, but judging from your photos, I think yours lacks that as well.  In contrast, the XR-1100/RF-1100 has a removable liner, which confirms my opinion that the QWEST is mainly just a cheaper version, similar to the Raid II/TR-Z, which was a cheaper version of the XR-1000/RF-1000.

You also say that it feels better than the liner of other helmets, but at least the European version uses the same material as the XR/RF-1100, and in your photos it looks exactly the same.  In Europe, both helmets share the same cheek pads, and the material is the same as in the previous Shoei helmet generation.  I doubt they make a special new liner for the American QWEST.

(Furthermore, I think the new Arais feel better, as do almost all of my customers).

And if I may state what I think about its place in the market, I'm pretty sure it will be a failure at least in Germany.  People who want a sports helmet will go for models with fancy decoration (the 1100), while touring people won't buy a helmet without a sun visor and a quick-acting closure.  They will continue to buy Schuberth or Nolan.  The only reason people might buy it is because it's considerably cheaper than the XR-1100.  I'm very interested however how it will do in other countries."

Rick's Reply:  Thanks for the feedback, yes, I guess I went a bit over the top, but I'm really liking the helmet.  I just checked again and Shoei isn't exactly clear about it, but it does appear that only the cheek pads are removable, so I edited that.  But I discovered that 6 different size cheek pads are available.

This doesn't change my feeling about the comfort and fit however.  The recent Arai helmets and other helmets we've reviewed recently have uncomfortable liner material.  The recent Arai RX-Q has a liner that is nothing like the Arai helmets of the past.

It may very well be that the Qwest is a replacement for the TZ-R, which never sold very well here.  But I stand by my enthusiastic opinion of the helmet.

From "P.C." (10/10):  " I am an avid street and sometime track rider of sportbikes and (unfaired) bikes.  There are two issues that your otherwise detailed helmet review of the Qwest (and prior reviews of other helmets) seems to cover only in
passing that are very important to riders like me:

Upward visibility in the eye port.  Many otherwise excellent helmets have their eye ports set slightly too low in the face of the helmet, making the sportbike rider in a leaned position move his/her neck into greater extension than is comfortable for long periods.

If the eye port extends a little higher, the rider can use an upward eye position in the eye socket instead of neck extension to maintain the road view, which is much more comfortable for longer periods.  Can you comment more about this on the Qwest, and start thinking more about it on other helmets?

For track use, and sometimes for street use, the amount of aerodynamic lift that the helmet generates is a concern.  A helmet that lifts off the head and pulls at the chin strap at speed is distracting, and potentially dangerous.

This is usually a problem at speeds above usual highway speed, but can occur while passing on the highway, and is certainly a problem for certain helmets on straight track stretches.

For these uses, this aerodynamic property is much more important than the airflow noise level that you often emphasize.  Can you comment on the aerodynamic properties of the Qwest, and start thinking about this during future reviews?

Thanks very much for your consideration."

Rick's Reply:  Thanks for the feedback.  Actually, we cover the lift/buffeting issue in almost every helmet review; it is addressed briefly in the Qwest review also.  Lift and buffeting can be difficult to evaluate as it can be caused by helmet fit and motorcycle type (i.e., size of fairing or windscreen).  But if there is an unusual problem, we usually mention it, I'll try and make sure we emphasize this in the future.

Regarding the upward visibility of the Qwest and other helmets, this also can depend on the rider's head and eye shape and proportions, the helmet fit and also the shell size range or shell design.  Since the Qwest, RF-1100 and X-12 have 5 shell sizes across the size range, the helmet shells are much more proportional to the head size, resulting in less overhang at the top of the eye port.

When a manufacturer uses fewer shell sizes across the head size range, the problem you describe can be a factor when the rider's head size is in the smallest range for the shell size; for example, if a shell spans the L, XL and XXL range, the size L helmet may have thicker padding or EPS, causing a larger overhang at the top of the eye port.

This, combined with the other factors and the overall helmet design and shape, can cause a sight line problem for sportbike riders.  This is why it's important to understand helmets, helmet design and shell size distribution across head sizes.  Unfortunately, the helmet manufacturers don't always publish the shell size distribution information. 


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Tuesday, November 2, 2010

Café Racer HD TV Series

 ? Motorcycle News Blog

wBW News Blog:  "Blog" is used in the broadest sense of the term.  This page consists of occasional news, opinions and observations on news and events that doesn't really fit anywhere else on the site.  Got a motorcycle blog or news page?  Let's share.  Contact me at

Caf? Racer TV Series

October 12, 2010 - Some of the coolest motorcycles in history are hitting the screen when the HD Theater channel launches its new series, Caf? Racer.

This 13-part series will air every Wednesday in the U.S. and it explores the history, development and worldwide culture surrounding the caf? racer, a motorcycle directly responsible for today?s superbikes.  Caf? Racer premieres Wednesday, October 13 at 21:00 (-5 UTC or EDT) on HD Theater (YouTube promotional video).

The series will visit visionary motorcycle builders in the U.S. and England as they search for the perfect combination of style and speed.  Chronicling some of today?s top motorcycle builders through the search and build process, Caf? Racer rides with pro superbike racers Eric and Ben Bostrom as they test ride these unique machines.

Recorded in vivid high definition, Caf? Racer takes viewers on a full-throttle ride to Mods and Rockers rallies and to London?s legendary Ace Caf?.  Viewers can catch behind-the-scenes footage and learn how-to customizing tips at www.caferacertv.com.

More:  wBW Book Review of The Mod Years and The Rocker Years

Yamaha Confirms Lorenzo for 2011-2012

Jorge Lorenzo

October 2, 2010 - Yamaha announced today that it has reached an agreement with Jorge Lorenzo for the Spaniard to remain with the factory for the next two years.

23-year-old Lorenzo, who joined Yamaha in 2008, has won an impressive seven races so far this season and is on target to take his first premier-class crown.  He currently leads the standings by 56 points with five rounds remaining.

Managing Director of Yamaha Motor Racing Lin Jarvis said "We are extremely happy that we have reached an agreement with Jorge to remain a Factory Yamaha rider for 2011 and 2012. 

"Since he joined three years ago he has made great progress and has improved himself every year to go from fourth place and ?best rookie' in 2008, to second place in 2009, to challenging for the MotoGP championship title in 2010.

"I am particularly pleased to finally get the agreement in place here in Japan because it will now enable Jorge to focus all of his efforts and concentration in the coming weeks to try to secure his first MotoGP class rider's title.  Being only 23 years old I believe Jorge has a long career ahead of him and hopefully he can win many world titles with Yamaha.

"Jorge will be joined by Ben Spies in the Factory Team next year and with these two exceptionally talented hungry young riders we will start the 2011 season with the most exciting and competitive team in the paddock."

Lorenzo added "My first choice was always to stay here with Yamaha and I am very glad that this will happen.  I feel happy here; I have good people around me, a strong relationship with Yamaha and a great bike.

"I want to say thanks again to Lin Jarvis, who has always supported me.  Now we are focused on winning the championship but I am already excited about next season.  I know that Ben and I can do a great job for Yamaha and I want to thank them for their belief in me."  (Text and Photos Courtesy Yamaha Racing.  Edited by webBikeWorld).

Consumer Reports Motorcycle Rider Survey

June 6, 2010 - Consumer Reports conducted a survey of U.S. motorcycle riders recently and found that 70% of the respondents "consider themselves to be experienced riders and have held their motorcycle license or endorsement for at least five years".

10% of the respondents said they had been in an accident within the last five years, and reported that almost half of those were single-vehicle crashes, with many of them either running wide on a curve or sliding out in a turn.  This is consistent with the Hurt Report information from nearly 40 years ago.

Slightly more than half of the riders responding to the survey said they had taken a formal riding instruction course, and about 25% indicated that they do not always wear a helmet when they ride.

The report also found this information about the respondents:

Only half reported regularly wearing protective boots, and less than half said they regularly wear gloves.

About 25% said they always wear a leather or other protective jacket when riding.

Fewer than 10% always wear protective pants or clothing in high-visibility colors.

Three out of five riders admitted to riding in a short-sleeved shirt, and about 25% said they rode in shorts.

More than 33% of all accidents resulted in a painful road rash and almost 25% involved broken bones.

More information on the survey can be found in the Consumer Reports Car Blog.  Note that the respondents to this study were not from the general public but from Consumer Reports readers, so there may be some bias in the results.

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HJC RPS-10 Review

HJC RPS-10 Motorcycle Helmet ReviewHJC RPS-10 Motorcycle Helmet Review
HJC R-PHA10 (in Europe)
by Rick K. for webBikeWorld.com

More:  wBW Reviews Home  |  wBW Motorcycle Helmet Reviews  |  Owner Comments (Below)

Summary
HJC moves slightly upmarket with a solid offering, but how does it compare with the Shoei Qwest?

Background 
We've always been partial to HJC, for a number of reasons.  First of all, the helmets are available -- you can find one at just about every Mom 'n' Pop motorcycle dealer on the planet.  That makes a big difference; after all, the "best" helmet in the world is a theory if you can't find one to buy.

HJC also has the price/performance range completely covered.  From the bottom-of-the-line CS-series all the way up to this latest RPS-10, with stops along the way for motocross, cruising, flip-uping and even a side trip to Carbon Fiber World -- if you want it, they got it.

Then there's value.  When you can buy a helmet like the time-tested CL-series, which has been around since Odin's floppy hat version (the latest is the CL-16) and get both DOT and Snell 2010 standards in a whole mess o' colors for less than 130 bucks, we're talking the textbook definition of "deal".

Let's see...what else?  There's the HJC reputation, the reliability, the support network...  Somehow, HJC seems to have it all dialed in.  The only thing missing?  The "Wow" factor.  The very ubiquitousness of the brand gives it less snob appeal than, say, Arai or Shark or Schuberth.

So along comes Ben Spies.  And the HJC RPS-10.  Is this enough to give HJC that last missing piece -- desirability?

I guess the FS-series, which held top spot in the HJC lineup until the RPS-10 came along, didn't do enough in this regard.  Or HJC wanted to cash in on the Spies phenomenon.  Or both.  Who can blame them?  It takes money to sponsor a talent like Spies!

In any case, the HJC RPS-10 is an up-market attempt by the Toyota of motorcycle helmets.  Sort of like trying to sell a Lexus next to a Corolla?  Hmmm...perhaps not quite.

Unfortunately, HJC's timing was slightly off.  They released the helmet just as the fantastic Shoei Qwest (review) hit the dealers' shelves.  The helmets are priced within $20.00 of each other and after wearing both for the last several weeks, I think they're natural competitors.

It isn't often when we have two helmets -- or any product, for that matter -- that are competing in the same "space" (to use an overused consulting term).  So I can't help but compare the two and I'll weave some of those thoughts in this review.  Let's get started...

HJC RPS-10 - Top View

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The HJC RPS-10: Paint, Graphics and Overall Quality
Evaluating the paint and graphics on this plain white RPS-10 is even more difficult than doing the same for the metallic silver Qwest.  But it does appear that HJC did a good job on this one; the paint is very evenly applied without a hint of orange peel or dust specks.

The finish and final clearcoat feels sturdy, if anything can be told from clearcoat "feel".  It still doesn't have that "hard" surface commonly found on some of the European helmets (like the Nolan N90 (review) for example) and it's difficult to determine the actual thickness of the clear coat, but overall, the finish is excellent.

Compared to the Qwest, however, there are a few immediately noticeable differences.  I found a few small rough edges here and there on the RPS-10, like the edges of the plastic top and rear vent covers.  Those covers don't quite match the curvature of the helmet, although these are very small nits to pick.  This RPS-10 also has a couple of stitching miscues and a loose thread here or there, which also reinforces the differences.

But it's these very little things that make the difference when comparing the two helmets, although I'll still give an "Outstanding" rating to the RPS-10. 

Compared to other HJC helmets, the RPS-10 is definitely a step up and I do think the helmet is probably the equal of some of the best quality helmets available.  Is it that much of a step up, however, from the HJC FS-15 (review)?  Ummm....I'm not so sure about that.

The biggest noticeable difference between the Qwest and the RPS-10 becomes apparent on the inside of the helmet.  I just don't think that the RPS-10 is as comfortable as the Qwest.  The liner fabric used in the HJC is smoother but not as plush as the fabric used in the Qwest, and the padding doesn't feel as thick either.

The fabric does seem to dissipate heat better in the RPS-10 than the Qwest however, which keeps my head cooler.  But the smooth material seems to pull or pill very quickly; my beard stubble created some pilling in the fabric on the edges of the cheek pads the very first time I wore the helmet, which doesn't bode well for longevity.

The bottom line here is that I just think the Qwest interior is a more comfortable place to spend some time, so I'd rate the RPS-10 as a "Very Good", which is two notches down from the Qwest's "Outstanding".

Again, it's unfortunate for HJC that both helmets arrived in one box.  It's possible that I would be singing a different tune if the RPS-10 arrived first, without a Qwest for comparison...but I don't think so.  After reviewing around 150 motorcycle helmets over the last 10 years, I have a pretty good database of knowledge built up in those little gray cells, which does help at comparison time.

The other bits and pieces on the RPS-10 all work very nicely and the liner is carefully installed.  It's also fully removable, unlike the Qwest, which has removable cheek pads only.

Score:  I'll give the HJC RPS-10 an "Excellent" rating for paint (in solid colors) and overall fit and finish.  See the Summary Table at the end of this page for a description of our rating system.

HJC RPS-10 Slide Show

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HJC RPS-10 Helmet Fit, Internal Shape and Liner
Other differences between the RPS-10 and the Shoei Qwest are apparent in the fit and the internals.  I've been wearing both helmets back-to-back on rides and I have them right next to me here in the office as I'm writing this, so I can say with confidence that the Qwest is a neutral to slightly round shape, compared to a neutral to slight narrow fit for the RPS-10.

In fact, the RPS-10 probably shades closer to slightly narrow than the Qwest does to slightly round.  I think the internal shape of the RPS-10 is felt in a more immediate way because the helmet shell overall feels a bit more snug than the Shoei.

The Qwest comes in a remarkable 5 different shell sizes, but HJC doesn't list the shell sizes for the RPS-10, at least that I can find.  Since the RPS-10 is available in sizes ranging from XS to XXL (XXS to XXL for the Qwest), my guess is there are perhaps two shell sizes, one to cover XS, S, M and one for L, XL, XXL?

The internal fit of the size large RPS-10shown here feels slightly small, about 1/2 size smaller than expected and not as roomy as the size L Shoei Qwest.  Where the Qwest feels all cushy and soft and padded inside -- and fits my very round head nearly perfectly, the RPS-10 feels like it has thinner padding, which again makes the difference in the internal shape more apparent.

I can definitely feel the oval-ish form towards the top of the RPS10; there's slightly more room at my forehead and the cheeks feel tighter.  Also, my chin hangs out the bottom of the helmet, although the large chin curtain masks this to a certain extent.  The RPS-10 feels like it's sitting a bit high, so all of this combined tells me that the helmet has a slightly narrow shape.  It fits but in reality it is probably not the best choice for my particular head shape.

Since internal shape and fit is based personal preference, this isn't something I'm factoring into my ratings, however.  The biggest difference though is in the padding, which feels thinner in the RPS-10 and the liner material, which just doesn't feel as plush or soft to me. 

Also, the padding under the chin strap in the RPS-10 is not long enough to cover my neck, so the unprotected central part of the strap causes quite a bit of chafing on my skin.

Taking everything into consideration, I'll have to shade my final shape rating on the RPS-10 also, making it a split between "Neutral" and "Slight Narrow" in the chart above.  Ultimately, I'll call it a "Neutral" though because I do think it should fit a wide range of head shapes.

The RPS-10 has relatively deep ear pockets, which should be adequate for speaker mounting.  The pockets have a thin section of padding at the bottom but it looks like speakers could either be mounted on top of the material, underneath against the EPS liner or it may be possible to cut out the liner at the pockets and mount the speakers directly on the EPS.

More information on helmet fit can be found in the webBikeWorld Motorcycle Helmet FAQ page, along with the chart that lists the helmet weights of webBikeWorld reviewed helmets and also by shape on the webBikeWorld Motorcycle Helmet Shapes page.

Score:  I'll give the HJC RPS-10 an "Excellent" rating for an internal shape that should fit a wide majority of head shapes, a comfortable liner that isn't as comfortable as the Shoei Qwest, with slightly thinner padding and slightly lower quality of material.

HJC RPS-10 - Top Vents
Independent top venting system on the HJC RPS-10 uses roller wheels with 5 click positions.
HJC RPS-10 - Chin Vent
The chin vent is a slightly complex design but doesn't flow a lot of air.webBikeWorld Amazon.com Motorcycle Store!

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HJC RPS-10 Face Shield, Eye Port and Visibility
Another new helmet, another new face shield and ventilation system...  I guess the manufacturers must figure that since it's much easier to recognize that something new and pry shekels out of a customer's pocket if a helmet has a redesigned face shield and vents.  After all, a new helmet shell material is completely invisible to the prospective buyer.

So now we have another type of face shield lift system.  The RPS-10 has a type of spring clip lift tab on the center of the face shield.  The central mounting position is a plus, because it can be grabbed with either hand and this location helps prevent twisting or torque of the face shield when it's lifted.

But having to squeeze the spring-loaded tab together to both lift and close the face shield makes it one step too fussy, in my opinion.  I gave it time, thinking I'd get used to it, but I haven't yet.  It takes a positive action and you sort of have to think about what you're doing, especially when closing the shield (see the video below) which takes concentration for a task that should be a very simple operation.  So I'm not a fan of the new HJC lift tab system.

On the plus side, the new tab system does serve to lock the face shield closed and it does have a slight first opening to allow defogging.  But so does the Shoei system, in a simpler fashion I think (although that one still isn't perfect yet either).  I'd rather see a hybrid of the Arai system, which uses a click arrangement to lock the face shield, but perhaps located in the lower center position on the shield.

Note that apparently the Ben Spies replica will have a "normal" face shield without this lift tab; see the note from D.M.B. in the Comments section below.  So this may be an option for owners who wish to replace the new face shield design with a traditional version.

The HJ-20 face shield is marked as meeting VESC-8 specs and it has good optical qualities.  It is slightly chamfered inwards at the top and bottom on the outside, just like the face shield on the Shoei Qwest.  However, there is some distortion at the lower edge, around the centrally located lift tab mechanism.

The RPS-10 face shield seals tightly against the 360-degree eye port gasket and it does pass our water resistance test.   The excess water is shunted behind the face shield and out on to the sides of the helmet, rather than into the eye port itself.

The RPS-10 does not have the same outstanding outward visibility of the Shoei Qwest however.  This is one of those things that, were it not for the Qwest, the comparison wouldn't be as dramatic.  But the RPS-10 chin bar seems taller than the Qwest, so the vertical sight lines aren't as generous.  I removed the breath guard almost immediately from the helmet because it blocked too much of the eye port.

The horizontal visibility is good, probably slightly better than average.  We've been working on a way to quantify the eye port visibility in terms of included angles of vision and hope to report on that soon.  So in the meantime, it's a subjective rating.

The face shield measures 2.1 mm thick on this helmet.  It is fitted with Pinlock pins and a Pinlock anti-fog insert (review) is included in the box, although ours was bent due to a packing error, which made it unusable.

The face shield uses the HJC "RapidFire" removal system, which works well and is illustrated in the video below.  The base plate has two stainless steel Philips head screws on either side for adjustment, if necessary, but our face shield fits tightly, so no problem there.

webBikeWorld Opinionator - HJC RPS-10 Outward Visibility

Score:  I'll give the HJC RPS-10 a "Very Good" rating for the overall quality and operation of the face shield and eye port.  This compares to an "Outstanding" given to the Qwest.

HJC RPS-10 - Rear Exhaust Vent
The RPS-10 rear exhaust vent system works well to help pull air through the helmet.
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Ventilation and Air Flow
The ventilation on both the Qwest and the RPS-10 isn't perfect, but it could be, if only the Qwest had the top vents of the RPS-10 and the RPS-10 had the chin vent of the Qwest.

HJC invented yet another new top venting system for the RPS-10.  This one uses a click roller wheel to open and close the vent covers.  The wheel has 5 detents, which honestly is 4 too many.  All you really need is "Open" and "Close" and you'd be all set.  To have two independently operating top vents, each with a roller wheel with 5 clicks, is overkill.

Fortunately, the top vents on the RPS-10 work rather well, and I think a lot of the credit goes to the always-open rear exhaust diffuser, which seems to pull air through the helmet.

The large scoops on either side of the top of the helmet direct a good amount of air through the vents (when they are opened to level 5).  The air is directed down through two vent holes above the brow, both of which are open directly on to the rider's head and located in channels molded into the EPS.  Strangely, the vent holes are canted forward, instead of back towards the rider's head, but the system still works. 

The exhaust vent holes at the other end of the molded channels are canted at the correct angle and the holes are larger than the intake holes.  So air is forced down into the helmet through a pair of holes in the front and runs unimpeded in channels along the top of the head and out the back.  This provides what I think is better than average top ventilation.

The chin vent is a different story.  Looking at the design, it should provide excellent air flow, in theory.  The chin bar has large horizontal vents cut through, located towards the top of the inside.  But this is packed with some type of thick heavy mesh, which effectively blocks most of the air that might come through.

The chin vent opening itself is rather small, especially considering the fussy design of the assembly tacked on to the front of the chin bar.  The air must go over the top of the vertical vent to enter the hole.  Designers, here's a tip: when you make a vent, point the opening towards the direction of air flow.  Makes sense, right?

The helmet has a large chin curtain installed, so any air coming in through the chin vent should be felt.  But the chin venting system on the RPS-10 is very weak, and it gets hot in there, especially at low speeds.

Before I forget, the EPS used in the RPS-10 is also treated with some type of coating or paint on the inside, just like the Qwest.  So this is a plus.

Bottom line here is that despite HJC's claims of many hours of work on the venting system, I believe the styling of the chin vent got in the way of what could be an effective system.  The irony is that this exactly swaps my scoring compared to the Qwest.

webBikeWorld Opinionator - HJC RPS-10 Ventilation

Score:  I'll split the difference here, giving the RPS-10 an "Outstanding" rating for upper ventilation but "Poor" for the chin vent.  I suppose that averages out to a "Neutral".

HJC RPS-10 - Face Shield Rotating Mechanism
The face shield release mechanism is easy to use.
HJC RPS-10 - Helmet Liner
The RPS-10 liner doesn't feel as plush as the Shoei Qwest.HJC RPS-10 - Face Shield Lift Tab
New lift tab is spring loaded and must be grabbed with two fingers to open and pushed on top to close.

HJC RPS-10 Sound Levels
Both helmets are fairly equal when it comes to noise control.  The top vents of the RPS-10 coincidentally produce the same type of lower-level "tearing paper" noise I noticed in the Qwest.  Actually, considering the rather large dual scoops on the RPS-10, which by all rights should produce a loud volume of noise, the results aren't bad.

Noise through the chin vent on the RPS-10 is subdued and the helmet design also seems to control noise around the bottom, except for that too-common problem of noise that seeps in from the split at the rear of the cheek pads where they meet the helmet liner.  I can place a thumb in the slot and the noise levels drop dramatically.

But overall, my feeling is that the RPS-10 is about equal with the Qwest, which is good.  I'll give it the benefit of the doubt with a "Quiet" rating, even though it's probably closer to what I consider average, so I'll use the shaded indicators in the chart below.

Note that our helmet evaluations are normally a combined effort of several riders over time, on different types of motorcycles with and without windscreens.  Evaluators wear correctly fitted, high quality earplugs (even when evaluating motorcycle intercom systems) and (usually) a helmet liner.  It is strongly recommended that hearing protection is used when riding a motorcycle.  See the wBW Earplugs and Hearing Protection page for more information on choosing and wearing earplugs. 

Note also that perceived noise levels will vary, depending on the individual.  Noise can be caused by many factors, including helmet fit; the type of motorcycle and windscreen; wind speed and direction and even the type of clothing that is being worn.  For more information on helmet noise, visit the wBW Motorcycle Helmet Noise page.

Score:  I'll give the HJC RPS-10 a "Very Good" overall rating for noise control.

Helmet Weight
The RPS-10 is one of the lightest helmets available that meets both DOT and Snell 2010 safety standards; in fact, it may very well be the lightest non-carbon-fiber helmet meeting the standards.

HJC's own FS-15 Carbon (review) at 1514 grams and the now-discontinued AC-12 Carbon (1489 grams), both in size XL, are lighter -- but only by a few grams.  All of these weights are recorded on the webBikeWorld Motorcycle Helmet Weights page.

The RPS-10 in size large shown here weighs 1525 grams (3 lbs., 5-3/4 oz.), an excellent showing that currently places it at number 25 out of 150 helmets weighed.  Other helmets in this neighborhood include the AGV Stealth at 1536 grams and the AGV K3 at 1543 grams, both in size XL but neither meeting Snell 2010.

This compares to the Shoei Qwest weight (size large) of 1648 grams, which is 123 grams (4.3 oz.) heavier.

The RPS-10 helmet shell is made from a type of composite fiberglass; HJC calls it their "Advanced Premium Integrated Matrix".  It consists of "aerospace grade aramid combined with pre-impregnated (!) fiberglass twill and layers of strong organic fabric", according to the company.

The RPS-10 feels relatively light, although I was surprised when I looked at the scale, thinking it might be heavier.  Other than the slightly peculiar fit for my very round head mentioned above, the helmet feels well balanced and I haven't noticed any undue buffeting or lift.

As far as I can tell, HJC hasn't reported on the shell size range for the RPS-10, so it's not clear how the shell sizes are distributed across the head size range.

All of these weights are available on the wBW Motorcycle Helmet Weights page, along with a chart that lists the helmets by weight and shape on the wBW Motorcycle Helmet Shapes page.

Score:  I'll give the HJC RPS-10 an "Outstanding" rating for relatively low weight compared to other helmets.

Miscellaneous
The RPS-10 meets both DOT and Snell 2010 standards when sold in the U.S.  The helmet is sold as the HJC R-PHA10 in Europe, where it meets ECE safety standards of course.

The RPS-10 has a five-year warranty, and it's interesting to note that HJC doesn't promote this fact very loudly; it's buried on the last page of the owner's manual, in small print.

The wBW Overall Opinionator - HJC RPS-10Excellent overall quality.

Light weight.

Solid shell feel and Snell 2010 approved.

Five-year warranty.

Excellent upper ventilation.

Lower ventilation could be improved.

New face shield lift system is fussy.

Slightly thin padding.

Chin bar blocks some lower vision.

Doesn't compare well with the Shoei Qwest.

Buy from Revzilla and help support webBikeWorld! Conclusion
The RPS-10 moves HJC upmarket slightly, although my feeling is that the helmet isn't that much of an improvement over the FS-15, which I actually prefer -- and which lists for $219.99, some $129 less than the RPS-10.  129 bucks is a lot of money in my book -- enough for a nice pair of gloves or boots.  I'm not sure the RPS-10 offers that much of an advantage over the FS-15 to spend the extra money.

The RPS-10 is an excellent helmet, no doubt about it, especially for those with slightly narrower heads that might not fit correctly in the rounder shaped Shoei Qwest.  But I also feel that the overall quality, fit, finish and especially the liner and padding in the Qwest is superior to the RPS-10, and well worth the $20.00 extra cost (solid colors).

webBikeWorld Review:  HJC RPS-10 (HJC R-PHA10) Helmet

Sizes:  XS to XXL  Shell Sizes:  Unknown.Note:  The product featured in this review was provided by RevZilla (more).

Ratings Scale:  For reference, our ratings scale is subjective and ranges from Unacceptable to Poor, Neutral, Very Good, Excellent and Outstanding.  Note: the middle "Good" rating was changed to "Neutral" in November of 2009.

Bookmark and Share Note:  For informational use only.  All material and photographs are Copyright ? webWorld International, LLC - 2000-2010.  All rights reserved.  See the webBikeWorld? Site Info page.  NOTE:  Product specifications, features and details may change or differ from our descriptions.  Always check before purchasing.  Read the Terms and Conditions!

?Reader Comments and Owner Feedback

Please send comments to
Comments are ordered from most recent to oldest.
Not all comments will be published (details).  Comments may be edited for clarity prior to publication.

From "D.M.B." (10/10):  "I was looking at the Drudi page and noticed that even Ben Spies' visor doesn't have the locking mechanism on the visor so maybe it even bothers him.  I wonder(ed) if you will be able to get after-market visors without the lock on it.  I checked one of the replica helmets out over here in the UK and it does have the 'normal' shield.

My bike was stolen recently (along with my helmet that was in the rear box) so I think the Spies replica will be my next lid.  The review was extremely timely, thanks!"

From "B.M." (10/10):  "I just read your review of the new HJC RPS-10 (where do they come up with these names?) and have a question.

If I'm on a faired bike, or even a non-faired bike at slow speeds, I frequently ride with the face shield slightly raised for a bit more air flow.  It looks like that big plastic latch on the bottom of the face shield could interfere with the view straight ahead in that situation.  Did you notice this at all?  I wish manufacturers would remember the old adage KISS."

Rick's Reply:  Good point, yes, it does interfere with vision slightly.


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Monday, November 1, 2010

BMW K 1600 GT and GTL 6-Cylinder Motorcycles Final Version Announced

BMW K1600GT and K1600 GTLBMW K1600GT and K1600 GTL
Final Production Versions Announced
BMW Press Release Edited by webBikeWorld.com

More:  wBW BMW Motorcycles Page  |  wBW Motorcycle Product Reviews Index

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The BMW K 1600 GT and K 1600 GTL: Introduction
October 5, 2010 - BMW announced today the final production version of the BMW K 1600 GT and GTL with the brand-new BMW 6-cylinder engine.

We first presented the engine in the concept study of the Concept 6 (Photos and Information) in November of 2009.  Then came the first photos and specifications of the K 1600 GT in July of this year.

Now it's here and will apparently be formally announced and displayed at the upcoming Intermot show in Cologne, Germany.  BMW sent the most recent information and photos of the bikes, presented here in edited form.

BMW K1600GT and K1600 GTL - Left Side

BMW K 1600 GT and BMW K 1600 GTL ? fascination with six cylinders.

Ever since BMW Motorrad presented the Concept 6 (Photos and Information) in autumn 2009, the new 6-cylinder in-line engine installed in it has caught the imagination of many motorcycle fans.

For over seven decades now, 6-cylinder in-line engines have stood for fascinating engine technology in automobiles at BMW more than with any other brand.  With the new K 1600 GT and K 1600 GTL, BMW motorcycles are now available for the first time with a 6-cylinder in-line power unit developed in-house.  The two touring motorcycles have a supreme, impressive and equally distinctive appearance, creating a desire to travel at first sight.

Riding dynamics, long-distance suitability and comfort.

For decades, 6-cylinder in-line engines have exercised a special fascination.  In addition to their perfect running smoothness they also offer supreme output and torque, giving the rider powerful emotional impressions.

Safety, equipment and comfort along with prestige and dynamic performance are the key criteria for a supreme touring bike.  With the most compact in-line 6-cylinder engine in serial motorcycle production to date, the K 1600 GT and the K 1600 GTL penetrate a whole new dimension in terms of riding properties, long-distance suitability and comfort.  They combine maximum agility and riding dynamics with a luxurious overall package.

With an engine output of 118 kW (160 bhp) and a maximum torque of 175 Newton meters, the 6-cylinder engine provides superb propulsion in all conditions.

BMW K1600GT and K1600 GTL - White, Left Side

Lightest and most compact serial production 6-cylinder in-line engine in a motorcycle greater than 1000 cc.

Previously, the in-line arrangement of six cylinders resulted in either very long or very wide constructions, depending on the installation position, which led to drawbacks in terms of chassis geometry, weight distribution and centre of gravity.  This where the K 1600 GT and K 1600 GTL break new ground.

Weighing 102.6 kilograms, the engine is by far the lightest serially produced 6-cylinder in-line engine for motorcycles in the class greater than 1000 cc.  What is more, the engine is significantly narrower in construction width than all other 6-cylinder in-line motorcycles in serial production to date.

This extremely compact construction and reduced width was achieved in particular by means of a cylinder bore of 72 millimeters in conjunction with a spacing of just 5 millimeters between the cylinder the cylinder sleeves.

Both the low engine weight and the consistent lightweight construction of the vehicle as a whole contribute to the low weight of the vehicle. At 319 kg (K 1600 GT without panniers) and 348 kg (K 1600 GTL with panniers and topcase) the new touring bikes are in the lower range of the segment.

BMW K1600GT and K1600 GTL - Red, Right Side

Three modes to choose from and DTC (Dynamic Traction Control) for maximum safety when accelerating.

The rider of the K 1600 models has three different engine characteristics directly available at the press of a button at the right-hand end of the handlebars so as to be able to adapt to different uses such as touring on the road, riding on wet surfaces and sporty, dynamic motorcycling - the modes "Rain", "Road" and "Dynamic".  Available as an option ex works, the traction control function DTC is combined individually with the different modes, fully harmonised with them so as to provide maximum riding safety.

E-gas Throttle Control

The control of the central throttle valve with a diameter of 52 millimeters is effected via an e-gas, also known as a ride-by-wire system.  The rider's wishes are registered by means of a sensor in the accelerator twist grip. The engine control then adjusts the position of the throttle valve accordingly.

BMW K 1600 GT Concept 6-Cylinder Engine

Chassis with ideal mass concentration for dynamic riding properties.

The essential chassis elements of the BMW K 1600 GT and K 1600 GTL are the light alloy bridge-type frame, and the Duolever and Paralever for wheel control at front and rear.  Because of the special requirements of a touring bike with a 6-cylinder engine, particular attention was paid to balancing the masses.

All in all, the interplay of chassis and engine position, together with the seating position of the rider, not only makes for a low overall centre of gravity with a very favorable concentration of masses, it also provides an ideally balanced wheel load distribution for excellent riding properties.  The combination of ride stability, riding dynamics and lightness of handling in all riding and load conditions sets a new benchmark in the touring bike segment.

Electronic Suspension Adjustment ESA II for optimum adaptation to all uses and load states.

The new 6-cylinder touring bikes also benefit from the innovative Electronic Suspension Adjustment II (ESA II), which is offered as a special equipment feature ex works.

With this system, globally unique on the motorcycle market, the rider can conveniently press a button to electronically adapt not only the rebound damping properties of the front and rear spring strut but also the spring rest ("spring preload") of the rear spring strut as well as the latter's spring rate and therefore the "hardness" of the suspension.  This makes for outstanding stability and impressive responsiveness in all load states.

The additional adaptation of the spring rate allows the damping settings "Sport, Normal, Comfort" to be spread widely in ESA II, giving them clearly perceptible characteristics during riding.  So in "Sport" mode, the K 1600 GT and K 1600 GTL are even more dynamic and precise and in "Comfort" mode they are more comfortable - while still retaining excellent stability.

BMW K1600GT and K1600 GTL - Red, Left Side

Adaptive headlight - a world first for increased safety at night.

With the new BMW Motorrad touring bikes, the first ever "Adaptive Headlight" option is available from the factory as a supplement to the standard xenon headlamp.  In addition to standard pitch compensation, the light of the main headlamp is also balanced in relation to banking angle.  This produces significantly improved illumination of the road when cornering and therefore an enormous increase in active riding safety.


Video:  BMW Adaptive Headlights

Integrated operating concept with Multi-Controller, TFT colour screen and menu guidance.

The instrument panel of the K 1600 models comprises two classic circular instruments for the speedometer and tachometer and a 5.7-inch TFT color display.  The design of the information display is also completely new in the motorcycle field.  Among other things, it enables the attractive presentation of text and graphics over several lines.

Another world first is the Multi-Controller as part of an integrated operating concept, first introduced in the BMW R 1200 RT at the end of 2009.  In addition to audio system control, the K 1600 models also have a menu for operating the comfort functions and on-board computer.

BMW K1600GT and K1600 GTL - Red, Rear Right

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Innovative design with outstanding wind and weather protection.

Particular attention was paid during development to the combination of innovative design, optimum wind and weather protection and the very highest level of functionality.  A very good example of this is the electrically adjustable windshield with memory function.

The bike's aerodynamic qualities in terms of reduced air swirl - especially in the pillion passenger area - were developed in sophisticated wind tunnel tests.  But the windshield not only protects the rider and pillion passenger: it automatically returns to the starting position when the ignition is switched off, acting as an anti-theft system for the optionally available navigation system.

BMW K 1600 GT with active riding ergonomics for proactive touring.

The design of the ergonomic triangle from the position of the footrests, seat top and handlebars makes for a highly proactive seating position in the K 1600 GT, while still retaining a high level of long-distance comfort.  The rider and pillion passenger enjoy a comfortable knee angle but the seating position is geared towards the front wheel for a dynamic riding style.  The seat is height-adjustable in the rider area so that it can be adapted to individual needs.

The K 1600 GT is has a very extensive range of standard features from the factory, consisting of xenon headlamps, heated grips and seat, cruise control and on-board computer.  In conjunction with the supreme riding qualities of the new BMW Motorrad 6-cylinder engine, this motorcycle leaves nothing to be desired as far as the proactive touring rider is concerned.

BMW K1600GT and K1600 GTL - White, Right Side

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BMW K 1600 GTL with very comfortable, relaxed ergonomics set-up for long trips with pillion passenger.

The luxurious touring bike BMW K 1600 GTL meets the very highest demands.  Rider and pillion passenger benefit from the very relaxed, upright seating position as is especially appreciated over long distances.  The ergonomic design is geared towards maximum comfort and derives from a single-section, dual level seat in conjunction with rider footrests which are further forward and lower, as well as handlebars which reach further backwards.  The standard top case rounds off the range of comfort features for the pillion passenger.

Like the K 1600 GT, the K 1600 GTL has a very extensive range of standard features consisting of xenon headlamps, heated grips and seat, cruise control and on-board computer.  The overall impression of the fascinating 6-cylinder motorcycle in combination with a carefully conceived storage concept, a standard audio system and numerous design elements make the BMW K 1600 GTL the flagship model among the BMW Motorrad touring bikes.

Individual paint finish concepts adapted to the character of each bike.

As touring bikes, the new BMW K 1600 GT and K 1600 GTL stand for a perfect synthesis of supremacy, dynamic performance and comfort.  This is also reflected in the coloring of the two models.

In the K 1600 GT, the body colors of Light Grey metallic and Vermilion Red metallic create a fascinating contrast with the frame and wheels in Ostra Grey and the engine in Platinum metallic matt.  The coloring especially highlights the bike's technical components.  The lines are concentrated and give the motorcycle a marked sense of agility.

With its emphasis on comfort and equipment, the K 1600 GTL has a powerful presence and elegance with elongated lines.  This was achieved by means of a harmonious interaction between body colors and the coloring of the engine and chassis components.  Here, Mineral Silver metallic or Royal Blue metallic 2 provide a perfect match for the Magnesium metallic matt of the painted frame and wheels.  The engine in Platinum metallic matt ensures an appealing overall impression.

BMW K1600GT and K1600 GTL - Red, Left Side

An overview of highlights of the BMW K 1600 GT and BMW K 1600 GTL:

Supreme in-line 6-cylinder engine with a high level of pulling power, especially in the lower and medium engine speed range.

Engine output 118 kW (160 bhp) at 7,750 rpm and maximum torque 175 Nm at 5,250 rpm.

Over 70 per cent of the maximum torque is already available from 1,500 rpm.

The lightest and most compact 6-cylinder in-line engine in serial motorcycle production greater than 1000 cc weighing just 102.6 kg and measuring 555 mm in width.

Consistent lightweight construction throughout the entire vehicle (magnesium front panel carrier, aluminum rear frame, crankshaft etc.).

E-Gas.

Three modes to choose from ("Rain", "Road", "Dynamic")

High active safety due to standard BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (part integral).

Dynamic traction control DTC (Dynamic Traction Control) for maximum safety when accelerating (optional extra).

Chassis with Duolever and Paralever and ideal mass concentration for dynamic riding properties combined with optimum comfort.

Electronic Suspension Adjustment ESA II for optimum adaptation to all uses and load states (optional extra).

World premiere in a motorcycle: Adaptive Headlight (optional extra) for increased safety at night in conjunction with standard xenon headlamp and fiber optic rings.

Integrated operating concept with Multi-Controller, TFT color display and menu guidance for the first time.

Audio system with preparation for navigation device and controllable interface for iPod, MP3, USB, Bluetooth and satellite radio (USA and Canada only) (standard in the K 1600 GTL).

Innovative design with outstanding wind and weather protection.

K 1600 GT with active riding ergonomics for proactive touring.

K 1600 GTL with a very comfortable, relaxed ergonomics set-up for long trips with pillion passenger as well as luxurious touring equipment.

Central locking for storage compartments, panniers and top case (optional extra).

Extensive fittings and individually tailored accessories at the familiar high level of BMW Motorrad.

Buy from RevZilla and help support webBikeWorld!Bookmark and Share Note:  For informational use only.  All material and photographs are Copyright ? webWorld International, LLC - 2000-2010.  All rights reserved.  See the webBikeWorld? Site Info page.  NOTE:  Product specifications, features and details may change or differ from our descriptions.  Always check before purchasing.  Read the Terms and Conditions!

?Reader Comments and Owner Feedback

Please send comments to
Comments are ordered from most recent to oldest.
Not all comments will be published (details).  Comments may be edited for clarity prior to publication.

From "B.B." (10/10) (Response to P.H. below):  "Let us not forget the venerable Honda CBX which was produced from 1978-1982 and that some 40,000 were built in that timeframe.  At 1047cc, the DOHC 24 valve 105HP air/oil cooled transverse in-line 6 certainly qualifies it for inclusion into the club.  The Benelli SEI should be considered but it only came in 750 and 900cc flavors and never crossed the 1 Liter boundary.

If you consider the CBX was nearly $4K when it was introduced (that?s almost $18K in today?s dollars) and while it was advanced for the day it has nowhere near the amount of sophistication and technology of the new king of sport tourers.  Now it?s just a matter of coming up with the ubercash to buy one...There?s always the lottery."

From "G.R." (10/10):  "Ummm...I read the other comments, and am compelled to say that I'd like to be so fortunate as to at least look at one of these machines up close.

My first motorcycle was a 1975 R60/6 with Vetter fairing and BMW hard cases, and I rode it almost exactly 10,000 miles the year I bought it.

I've tried other makes, and the only other one that I've been impressed with is the Victory Vision.  Hey, some people think those are heavy and ugly, too, but maybe they need to ride one.

Y'know, if it has two wheels, and it's safe to ride, it's worth a try."

From "P.H." (10/10):  "The marketers were probably on holiday or hung over when they had to come with the copy for this launch.

According Wikipedia, the only "serially produced inline 6 engine over 1000cc" was the Kawasaki KZ1300 of 1979.  Well done BMW, only 30 years of development and your new engine is lighter than the KZ1300 even if the finished bike is almost exactly the same weight."

Editor's Note:  Can't tell, is this a compliment?

From "M.M." (10/10):  "Wow!  And UgLyy!  I thought I?d buy one because of the stats, but I didn?t think 703 lb. is all that great for a sport touring bike.

Now after seeing the pictures it is plain ugly.  Looks like somebody added an old Vickers 3/4 fairing onto a naked bike and pronounced it a sport touring bike. 

Why not a full fairing? I've always liked BMW's definition of Sport Touring = GT.  Now they've pushed that definition into a mutation, looks like a puzzle picture of a large motorcycle with pieces of the picture missing where the fairing should be.  The GLT doesn't even look right. I won?t pre-order just from the pictures.  I'll give them one more look at the dealer."


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