HJC Launches New Helmets For 2014

The special “Graffiti” HJC RPHA 10 helmet Jorge Lorenzo wore during his win at Catalunya earlier this year is now for sale. The original sold at auction for more than $35,000, with the proceeds going to charity. Comparatively, the production model costs only a mere $590. HJC is planning to donate $35,000 from sales of the Graffiti Lorenzo to charity.

The design of the helmet belongs to Spanish artist, Anna Vives, who combined her flair for creativity with her love of MotoGP racing and national hero, Lorenzo, when creating the custom lid. This artistic achievement, among others, is a beacon for people with Down syndrome worldwide.

The RPHA 10 is constructed from a matrix of Carbon Fiber, Aramid, Fiberglass and Organic Non-Woven Fabric. The top-of-the-line lid features HJC’s RapidFire quick replacement shield system, Pinlock 2D flat-racing shield, moisture-wicking SilverCool Plus interior fabric with removable cheek and crown pads, and a wind tunnel-tested air ventilation system. Sizes range from XS to XXL and is both D.O.T. and Snell approved.

Joining the new Graffiti Lorenzo are brand new models: IS-17, CL-17 and FG-X.

The IS-17 is a reported 150 grams lighter than the IS-16 it’s replacing. The 17 also features a new aerodynamic chin design meant to help reduce wind noise as well as create a downforce to keep the helmet better positioned on a rider’s head.

Like the IS-16, the IS-17 comes equipped with a 3-stage retractable inner sun screen but now with dampers to soften the blow when the shield snaps back into place. The faceshield is Pinlock-ready (Pinlock not included), and like the RPHA 10, the IS-17 comes with the moisture-wicking SilverCool interior fabric.

The IS-17 uses two different shells and two EPS liners to create helmet sizes ranging from XS to XXL. The shell of the IS-17 is constructed from a polycarbonate composite and is rated to D.O.T. safety standards.

According to HJC, the CL-16 is the company’s most popular helmet, so its redesign was a serious undertaking. The CL-17 is said to offer improved venting, better interior fabric and a wider range of sizes.

HJC subjected the CL-17 to the company’s wind tunnel when forming the helmets Advanced Channeling Ventilation System (ACS) that moves heat and humidity out of the helmet efficiently. Combined with the CL-17’s SuperCool removable, interior fabric, wearers should experience more comfort during long rides through hot temperatures.

When it comes to sizing HJC added more XL sizes, widening the range of fitment for the CL-17 to XS – 5XL. Safety standards for the polycarbonate composite helmet are both D.O.T. and Snell for sizes XS – 2XL but only D.O.T. for sizes 3XL – 5XL.

Among the assortment of solid colors and graphics available on the CL-17 are a few new vintage-styled options such as the Victory design pictured above.

Adding to HJC’s growing assortment of off-road helmets is the new FG-X. Constructed from a Kevlar and fiberglass composite, the new FG-X meets both D.O.T. and Snell safety standards while weighing in at 1,450 grams (size: medium).

Like its streetable counterparts, the FG-X boasts a SilverCool fabric liner that’s moisture-wicking, anti-bacterial and removable. The helmet features a large eye port and is neck-brace friendly. Along with new exterior colors and graphics comes customized, stylish interior linings. Sizes range from XS – XXL.

In addition to these new offerings HJC says another five new helmets will be introduced in 2014; two in the spring and three in the fall. Stay tuned.