I have not seen a good place for honest motorcycle helmet reviews so I thought this may be a good idea. I know some people do not wear helmets at all and there are instances where I don't as well but this thread is not to change anyones decision. Rather, an honest review of whats out there in the market. I urge everyone to please contribute as many have unanswered questions about the "BEST" helmet.

MODEL: Shark Drak
PRICE PAID: $229

Shark Drak 3/4 Helmet -
I purchased this helmet initially for mostly around town use. I do not have motorcycle specific prescription sunglasses so having the wind in your eyes is not a good feeling. This helmet takes care of that. The face shield is very easy to use and can slide up to the top when you want to just cruise without it. Visibility is very good but it is slightly limited when looking to the sides. I realized I turn my head more then when using a regular full face helmet. I think the optics are very good quality as the helmet seems pretty resistant to scratches on the lenses and does not seem to ever want to fog. The helmet feels lighter than a FF by quite a bit. Fitment is about what you would expect, this is a 2X and fits my big head quite well. The best part is this comes with a quick attach strap which is very easy to use and extremely secure. The liner inside is removable for easy cleaning as well. A negative which I can say I have noticed is the fact that on highway speeds the helmet can get a bit noisy. Where the face mask meets the sides of the helmet the gaps allow for air to push through and basically create a lot of noise for the ears. If I was to choose a helmet for mostly highway riding only a true full face would do.

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MODEL: HJC CL-17 Punisher II Helmet
PRICE PAID: $184.95

HJC Punisher II:
This is a full face helmet that is mostly used on highway trips. I received this as a gift. I have a pretty big head and this is a size 2X. I noticed that fitment is pretty good overall but the helmet might run just a little big. I think an XL would have suited me just fine. Overall the helmet is decent quality but not a top tier helmet by any means. The face shield does show some gaps in areas that let air in. It comes with a clear shield but any HJ-09 shields fit this helmet. I confirmed with HJC before ordering in case anyone had a similar question as it was not advertised. This is the DARK SMOKE shield that I was a bit afraid to use at night but to be honest it is no big deal. South Florida streets are well lit but I do not recommend this for use in dark areas without street lights. I have the clear shield that originally came with the helmet for that use. The helmet feels big but not heavy compared to many others. Swapping shields is a breeze on these helmets and requires no tools whatsoever. Literally a 10 second ordeal. I wear glasses and there is enough room underneath for them as well. I really wish this helmet came with a quick connect under-chin strap.

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What did you not like about the HJC helmet? Was it that they feel tight and you feel encompassed? Throw up some pics of what you wear now or a pic from the web. Fighter pilot style is a preference of mine as well.

MODEL: Akoury AK-66 Carbon Fiber
PRICE PAID: $139

Akoury AK-66 Carbon Fiber:
This is being advertised as the smallest and lightest 1/2 DOT approved helmet out there. I'm in full agreement. This is actually my brother's and I tried it out a few times. It honestly feels like you are not wearing a helmet at all. It is VERY VERY light! In fact, it weigh's only 20 ounces. This helmet has the quick attach chin strap which is great and easy to use. It is in fact DOT approved so legally it passes without issue. Fitment is accurate for sizing. There is a size chart on their pages. NOW, the finish on this is carbon fiber (real carbon fiber) and it is matte and not gloss. It shows dirt and finger prints very easily. I don't know how much protection this provides but I'm sure it is just as much as any other 1/2 helmet... not much.

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MODEL: Harley Davidson Willie G Half Helmet
PRICE PAID: $129 ( mine came with the bike)

Harley Davidson Willie G Half Helmet:
This helmet originally came with my bike. Comparing it to the carbon helmet it is heavier and feels more solid but I believe that is just due to the materials (Not carbon). The front spoiler/shield doesn't seem to do much and is probably just for looks. It does not have a quick strap but is very easy to put on. 1/2 helmets don't have much protection against elements and this is no different. I do find this helmet pretty comfortable just don't use it much as I prefer the FF. I believe this model is no longer sold and they have changed it a little bit by using lighter materials and moving the skull to the front instead of the sides. I did notice that this helmet scratches easily.

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