LS2 Bob | With a drop-down sunshield and a removable peak, the retail price is good, our only small criticism being of the sunshield. Couple that with the fact that the old J-Cruise helmet was highly rated for ventilation anyhow, even with just that single vent up top.

If neither of those peaks suit, then because it’s a universal fit 3 stud fitment, you should be able to push on more or less any other 3 stud peak (most are adjustable so they fit) and there’s a range of modern and retro visors out there that should fit too. There are exceptions to this, of course. Touring riders who are part of large groups may need additional features supported by more expensive options. But you won’t need to break the bank if you just want to stay in touch with one or two buddies on a Sunday ride. Range Sena Savage | The Savage seems to have been discontinued, and we’re struggling to find any for sale. Which is a shame, as it’s a really great – if plain – open-face helmet with good quality Bluetooth comms built in.

Beyond Bluetooth

From July 2023, the production of all motorcycle helmets certified to the long-standing UK and European standard of ECE 22.05 will cease. From that point, any helmets made for sale here will have to conform to ECE 22.06, a much tougher testing standard that means you’ll be provably safer. Riding the Kawasaki Versys 1000 (which of course has a screen), the clarity of speech from the microphone – which is hidden up in the brow of the lid – is acceptable up to about 40mph, but unsurprisingly not up to the clarity you’d expect from a full-face helmet. Beyond that it drops off significantly as the electronics try to cancel out the buffeting caused by the screen. However, if I stand up into clean air – the kind of wind blast you’d be more likely to get on a bike without a screen –the performance improves again, becoming pretty usable up to 70mph if you speak loudly. Of course, if your bike has a huge screen that leaves you sat in a bubble of still air, you’ll also find clarity much better; it’s the buffeting that’s a problem. Sadly, premium models from different makers are unlikely to work together. Some offer a “universal” mode, but numerous independent testers have found it flaky at best. It’s almost certain to happen eventually, but it’s not there yet. There, think that about covers it. It’s an open face so don’t expect it to stop your chin/face/nose taking a battering if you have an off.

In comparison to the quietest helmets overall (including full face helmets), it probably ranks around average. But that’s very quiet for an open face and a great performance by Shoei’s engineers. Ventilation (more about helmet ventilation)Compare these two linings as a small example of the amount of extra work that goes into some models

The other’s the DOT (US) helmet that’s also available in white too, and it comes in sizes XS-XXL and in two different shell sizes.To charge it up, there’s a micro USB cable that peeps out of the strap and Sena gives you a handy inflatable hoop to cushion your helmet while it charges. Nice touch.

First up, and in a similar vein to the J-Cruise II – and even more practical – is the Nolan N40-5 GT. It’s a supremely versatile modular helmet that can be converted into a jet by fully removing the chin bar. The best of both worlds! Sena SavageThe Sena Savage comes with the classic universal three studs to fit a peak or visor. In fact, when you buy a Savage, it comes with both a long and short peak in the box which is quality. Just press them into place and you’re good to go. Two peaks are included in the box OK, the bluetooth headset integration is why you’re going to buy a Sena Savage, so here’s the score. Higher costs often come with more outer shell sizes, which means there might be three shells used across the interior size range – if not, an XS lid will have to use an outer shell big enough to accommodate an XXL interior, making it look unwieldy. In addition to and as a result of producing technically innovative products for enthusiasts, Sena has come to be the Bluetooth communication supplier of choice for the industry’s leading motorcycle and helmet OEMs. Leveraging our longstanding design and development expertise, Sena has partnered with many other manufacturers to bring Bluetooth communication to a wide variety of brands and retailers. Sena’s products are offered worldwide through its global network of distributors, retailers and OEM partners. In the US that equivalent is the ANSI Z80.3-2010 standard which means it should give about as much protection as a pair of shades – and includes a test to ensure it won’t burst into flames. Which is always good to know!