Friday, July 29

AGV T-2 Helmet Review

AGV T-2 Agostini Helmet
Built on the shoulders of the technologies used in AGV's pro-level race helmet (the GP Tech) worn by Valentino Rossi and Marco Simoncelli, the AGV T-2 Helmet uses a slightly less exotic shell construction but retains most of the GP Tech's features. The ventilation, aerodynamics and stability are superb, and the Italian quality seen in the rest of AGV Helmets' line can easily be seen in the T-2. Designed for the aggressive street rider, spirited trackday enthusiast, the AGV T-2 Helmet is an excellent choice in its price range and has received nothing but positive feedback from our riding community.

Check out our AGV T-2 Helmet Review:



AGV T-2 Shade Helmet
Starting with the shell, the T-2 uses AGV's weave of carbon fiber, kevlar and fiberglass. The result is a helmet that is extremely resilient to impacts but also very lightweight. The protective EPS layer is double density for shock protection. The shell comes in three sizes and the EPS comes in four sizes, so you can be assured that whatever size you need won't simply be their stock helmet model with larger or smaller cheek padding. These helmets fit extremely well for the intermediate oval head shape. The IVS (Integrated Ventilation System) is used here, which incorporates large channels into the helmet that are hollowed directly through the EPS for top-notch airflow. The chin and top intakes feed air into this system that can then exit via the four exhausts.

AGV T-2 Nieto Helmet
The T-2 Helmet uses the exact same shield and shield-change mechanism as the pro-level GP Tech lid. The Racer-X shield is anti-scratch and anti-fog, featuring tear-off posts which allows the use of tear-offs, a critical feature for any serious trackday rider or racer. The shield also utilizes the XQRS (Extra Quick Release System) which is an extraordinarily simple shield change mechanism that requires no tools and allows shield swaps to be completed in a matter of seconds. The T-2 has a removable chin curtain and breath guard and uses a double d-ring chin strap system. Inside, the Coolmax cheekpads, neck roll and comfort liner are comfortable, moisture-wicking and completely removable and washable.

AGV T-2 Barry Sheene Helmet
The AGV T-2 Helmet is a great choice and it's currently on a crazy sale. It is DOT and ECE certified, and primed to be your high-performance street and track lid. Multiple solids and graphics are available, and a full range of colored shields are also available. We're huge fans of this helmet. To compare with similar choices, visit our Sportbike Motorcycle Helmets section.

-RetroZilla

Previously:
AGV GP Tech Helmet Review
AGV K3 Helmet Review
AGV AX-8 DS Helmet Review

Thursday, July 28

Shoei RJ Platinum-R Helmet Review

When you buy Shoei Helmets, you know you are buying one of the most premium motorcycle helmets that money can get you. The Shoei RJ Platinum-R Helmet features the same attention to quality, detail, performance and protection found in all their lids. The RJ Platinum R is Shoei's take on the classic 3/4 helmet, designed for the upright rider, the cruiser, the tourer, and essentially any rider seeking the feel of the wind on his face while rolling along the open road.

Check out our Shoei RJ Platinum-R Helmet Review:




The Shoei RJ Platinum-R Helmet uses Shoei's AIM+ (Advanced Integrated Matrix Plus) shell design. This weave is a combination of fiberglass, organic fibers, and Shoei's high-performance fiber, which creates a shell that offers excellent impact protection in a lightweight compound; the RJ Platinum-R is DOT and Snell certified. While it is open face and you're going to get a great deal of air flowing through this lid, there are additional intake vents at the brow that can be closed and rear top vents that will suck the hot air away from your head. Shoei's OpenRoad visor is easy to snap on and is completely removable if you so choose.

Inside, the liner and cheek pad materials are extremely soft and comfortable, moisture-wicking and everything can be removed and washed. The helmet liner features a 3D design for added comfort and uses a tab connection system which eliminates pressure points along the forehead. Even the double d-ring chin strap features this same soft material for comfort along the chin. Knowing how important and popular bluetooth systems are these days, Shoei made sure that you can easily install a bluetooth communication unit into the RJ Platinum-R. This helmet is available in ten different solid color choices, so there truly is a style available for every rider out there.

To see more options like this, visit our Open Face and 3/4 Motorcycle Helmets section.

-RetroZilla

Related:
AFX FX-50 Open Face Helmet Review
Arai XC Ram Helmet Review
Shoei Multitec Modular Helmet Review
Nolan N90 Helmet Review

Wednesday, July 27

Held Akira Evo Gloves Review

Brand new for 2011, the Held Akira Evo Gloves provide the aggressive street and track rider with another option from Held that delivers performance, protection and excellent value at its price point. There is a certain level of quality that you can consistently expect from all Held gloves, and the brand new Akira Evo stays true to form and is an excellent complement to the Held Phantom Glove within their race and spirited street glove segment.

Check out our Held Akira Evo Gloves Review:


The backhand of the Akira Evo uses Pittards WR100 leather. Pittards goatskin leather is specially treated to offer higher abrasion resistance than standard cowhide, utilizing unique tanning processes. The WR100 line of Pittards provides a further degree of water resistance to protect the hands in all weather conditions while also being resistant to the ill effects of perspiration. At the palm, Held uses their standard Kangaroo leather, which is lighter than both cowhide and goatskin, but provides comparable abrasion resistance and even higher levels of tactility. Double layers of leather can be found at the backs of the fingers and across the palm for reinforcement and durability. The palm uses flat seams as well to decrease pressure points and maintain comfort.

This glove is loaded with hard part protective elements as well. Superfabric-coated Carbon/GRP shell protectors can be found across the knuckles and at the side of the hand to protect the ulna. Superfabric is tiny laser-welded heat-resistant ceramic plates that offers 5x the abrasion resistance of leather, encouraging the hand to slide in a get off situation. The carbon and GRP shell is comprised of carbon fiber and GRP, glass-reinforced plastic, which is essentially another name for fiberglass. Another material used is the Suprotect shock-absorbing foam, which is essentially a version or d3o or Poron XRD, molecular-level armors that are soft and malleable to the touch but become rigid and absorb impact in a shock. This is found at the backhand and ball of thumb.

The full gauntlet of this glove features a single velcro cuff closure and an additional velcro micro wrist adjuster to ratchet down the snugness. There is an additional foam-backed Superfabric panel at the heel of the hand that will help to minimize injury in a sliding scenario. Also, there is a convenient visor wiper on the left index finger to help clean off your shield on the fly. Available in all black and a red-white color scheme, this is going to be an excellent glove option for the aggressive street and track rider. Check out more options by visiting our Motorcycle Race Gloves section.

-RetroZilla

Previously:
Held Rainstar Gloves Review
Motorcycle Race Gauntlet Glove Guide
REV'IT! Tarmac Gloves Review

Monday, July 18

Spidi XP3-S Sport Boots review

The Spidi XP3-S Boots are designed to be the street version of the Spidi XP7 WRS Boot. The XP3-S doesn't have some of the race technical features of the XP7 but still offers a ton of protection and performance at the price point. The main focus and design Spidi had for this boot is to fit the needs of the sport rider, commuter, and casual track day rider. The Spidi XP3-S Sport Boot is a well rounded boot to fit a wide variety of applications.


Check out our Spidi XP3-S Sport Boots Review:



At first glance this boot can easy be mistaken for an all out race boot. This is mostly because of the plethora of metal and thermoplastic sliders, stretch panels, and high-tech styling. A large thermoplastic shin deflector protects the lower portion of the tibia from damage which is a very common area for injury. Ankle sliders are sometimes forgotten with boots at this price point so seeing them on the XP3-S is a great sign. In the event of a high speed slide or a full size motorcycle falling on the side of the boot, this is when you're going to want to have as much ankle protection as possible. The back of the boot has a plastic fin on it that adds to aerodynamics and to act as a slider in the event of a wreck. Not very many boot manufactures incorporate calf protection like the Spidi XP3-S does. A heel cup and plastic heel slider is shock absorbent and protects the back of the heel from impacts. 

On the front of the boot is a reinforced toe slider that is held in place by an allen head bolt making removal a little more difficult then with a snap style slider, but it ensures that the slider won't accidentally fall off. The accordion flex panels on the front and back of the boot makes movement feel much more natural to walk around in. The chassis of the boot is not synthetic Lorica like the XP3-S and instead is made of a natural cowhide to keep costs down. Ventilation is minimum with a small amount of perforation behind the calf but not much anywhere else.

The Spidi XP3-S Sport Boots is awell rounded boot with a ton of track inspired features. This boot incorporates everything a sport rider needs for spirited street rider to track days. Sizing goes from 41-47euro and the boot is available in black, white, and red color schemes.


Check out all of our Motorcycle Race Boots at RevZilla.com.


Similar:
Spidi XP7 WRS Boots Review
Alpinestars SMX-Plus Race Boots Review
Sidi Cobra Boots Review
Dainese Torque Pro Out Boots Review

Friday, July 15

Scorpion EXO-1100 Helmet Review

Scorpion EXO-1100 Helmet - Solid
The Scorpion EXO-1100 Helmet is packed with improvements over its predecessor, the EXO-1000, but manages to remain in the same price range, delivering an even higher degree of performance. Designed as the premium long-distance touring lid within the Scorpion range, the Scorpion EXO1100 Helmet is optimized for the upright or 3/4 riding position, providing ideal comfort, aerodynamics, protection, and ventilation in all touring scenarios. With an improved shell, redesigned airflow system, and other subtle upgrades, we can easily see this helmet being an absolute home run as we move into the latter portion of 2011 and the 2012 riding season.

Check out our Scorpion EXO-1100 Helmet Review:



Scorpion EXO-1100 Street Demon Helmet
Available in a run of solid colors and Scorpion's newest graphic options, the Scorpion EXO 1100 Helmet is sure to carry the torch after the immense popularity of the EXO-1000. Let's get right in to the upgrades found on the 1100. First and foremost, the ventilation in the EXO-1100 has been completely redesigned with enormous channels that span the entirety of the EPS liner to flow a ton of air and keep the head cool on all long rides. As with the EXO-1000, the ventilation is strategically-positioned to perform the best in the upright and 3/4 position. There is an open/close chin vent, an open/close brow intake, two open/close chimney intakes, an open/close chimney exhaust (that controls two vents), and two rear lower diffusers. There is a ton of air that flows through this lid.

Scorpion EXO-1100 Freedom Helmet
The new for 2010 Scorpion EXO-1100 Helmet is also 4oz. lighter than its predecessor. Scorpion has decided to use DOT and ECE safety certifications rather than Snell. ECE provides a comparable safety level to Snell, but allows for significant weight savings. We see this with some other brands (such as AGV) and the result is a high-performance, lighter weight helmet. Internally, the KwikWick II liner system is now being used which is a significant upgrade over the first iteration. In addition to being softer and providing better moisture-wicking properties, the KwikWick II is also completely antimicrobial and antibacterial which will help keep your helmet funk-free. It still remains removable and washable (cheekpads and crown liner). The comfort liner uses a slot system rather than the velcro of the 1000, which reduces pressure points.

Scorpion EXO-1100 Kranium Helmet
At the neckroll, we see another improvement as it now features a new lower profile that creates a better seal at the entrance of the helmet, offering significantly lower wind noise. The opening is now more accommodating for putting the 1100 on and off, and its intermediate oval shape is going to fit an extremely wide range of riders' head shapes. The AirFit system remains in this helmet which is a controllable air bladder system behind each cheekpad, allowing a personalized fit with the simple push of a button. This makes getting in and out of the helmet a lot easier and also ensures you can have the snuggest fit possible for maximum comfort and ergonomics.

Scorpion EXO-1100 Preciosa Helmet
Beyond the extensive upgrades, the EverClear fog-free shield is optically-correct and anti-fog treatment works very well. The SpeedShift shield change mechanism allows for shield changes in seconds with the simple twist of a knob. The shield itself is spring-loaded, features strong detents, and the locking mechanism is three positions (open, locked, and cracked for airflow). Another big feature that carries over is the SpeedView internal retractable sun visor (also featuring the anti-fog EverClear coating) which provides the rider a quick way to ease the glare when the sun makes its way out.

With the extensive feature set from the EXO-1000 and a significant amount of improvements, we see the Scorpion EXO-1100 Helmet as providing excellent value at its price point and being suitable for a wide range of riders.

To see our full range, visit our Motorcycle Helmets segment at RevZilla.com.

-RetroZilla

Previously:
Scorpion EXO-1100 Helmet Preview
Scorpion VX-34 Helmet Review
Scorpion EXO-500 Helmet Review
Scorpion EXO-750 Helmet Review

Firstgear Mesh Tex Jacket Review

The Firstgear Mesh Tex Jacket has been a staple of our lineup for hot weather riding within the sport touring, touring, and ADV touring segments since its inception a couple years back. The cut is nicely contoured for a snug and sporty fit, and it provides a great deal of mesh for airflow, with solid abrasion resistance and impact protection. As the Firstgear lineup evolves, we continue to be impressed by the features and functionality they pack into reasonably priced products. The Mesh Tex is no different, and every rider who has given feedback about it has been glowing with positivity and satisfaction.

Check out our Firstgear Mesh Tex Jacket Review:



The entire shell of the Mesh Tex is built with a 250D polyester mesh for a superior level of ventilation. At the inside, the perforated nylon lining is breathable and lightweight, allowing for the air to flow through to and cool the body. There is double-layered fabric in the shoulders of elbows that provides abrasion resistance to complement the impact protection provided by the CE rated armor in the same areas. There is double stitching in most areas of this jacket to add stability and strength to the seams and EVA foam back pad can be upgraded to a CE protector for additional back armor. You're definitely covered in a get-off situation.

Taking a look at some of the nuances, there is a removable full-sleeved water-resistant windproof liner that really helps stretch this down into the temperature. We have rider reports of getting under the 50º F mark without any issue at all. There is adjustability at the waist and wrist to help with cinching this jacket down appropriately for your shape. Handwarmer pockets, an interior pocket, strategically-placed reflective piping and a microfiber-style collar round out the features of this jacket. One of the most popular versions of the Firstgear Mesh Tex Jacket is the neon yellow colorway, which allows safety-conscious riders to ensure that they'll be seen by four-wheeled motorists.

To see similar choices, visit our Mesh Motorcycle Jackets and Firstgear Textile Jackets pages.

-RetroZilla

Previously:
Alpinestars T-GP Plus Air Jacket Review
Icon Hooligan 2 Mesh Jacket Review
Alpinestars Sniper Air Flo Jacket Review
Dainese Air-Frame Textile Jacket Review

Wednesday, July 13

Alpinestars T-GP Plus Air Jacket Review

One of our top summer sport jackets is the Alpinestars T-GP Plus Air Jacket. A couple years in the running now, the T-GP Plus delivers what riders expect from Alpinestars at this point: performance, protection, comfort and sport style all bundled into an affordable package that utilizes premium materials. While this jacket is primarily built for hot weather sport and city riding, you can really stretch this jacket into a decent portion of Spring and Fall. If you're a sport rider who generally can be found in the 3/4 or tuck position, the T-GP Plus Air Jacket can be your go-to for nearly three seasons.

Check out our Alpinestars T-GP Plus Air Jacket Review:



The shell of the T-GP Plus Air is constructed of 600D PU-coated (for water/abrasion resistance) polyester in all impact areas (shoulders, elbows, upper chest, upper back) with huge high-airflow polyester mesh inserts at the chest and the back. CE rated protectors are removable and can be found in the shoulders and elbows, with PE padding in the chest and back, each area can be upgraded. The Alpinestars Bionic Chest Pads and Alpinestars RC Back Protector provide significantly higher protection than the standard foam padding. To stretch this into Spring and Fall, Alpinestars has included a removable windproof breathable liner jacket that will help seal out some of the wind of the cooler months.

The T-GP Plus Air Jacket features an aggressive sport fit and the sleeves have a pre-curve to them for comfort in the 3/4 and tuck positions. There are adjustable velcro panels at the waist and wrist, along with a 360º waist zipper to connect this to any textile or leather pants in the AStars lineup. As always, YKK zippers (the best in the world) are used throughout the jacket for long life. The attention to detail is there as well, with stylish TPR logos on the lower back and upper arms and a die-cut leather logo across the front of the chest.

Another solid hot weather choice in the AStars lineup, the T-GP Plus Air has kept many a rider cool and comfortable and will continue to do so. To check out comparable options, visit our Mesh Motorcycle Jackets section.

-RetroZilla

Previously:
Icon Hooligan 2 Mesh Jacket Review
Alpinestars Sniper Air Flo Jacket Review
Alpinestars T-Breeze Air Flo Jacket Review
Dainese Air-Frame Textile Jacket Review

Tuesday, July 12

Dainese Scout Gore-Tex Gloves Review

I know it's July 12, and most everywhere is blazing hot right now, so most won't have a pressing need for the Dainese Scout Gore-Tex Gloves. However, these gloves need to be written about, if only as a vehicle to show off how slick they look and go into some detail about their cold weather performance. Brand new for 2011, the Scouts complement the Jerico gloves as the most high-end cold weather sport and ADV touring in the Dainese lineup. With protective elements that cover you in all impact areas and a Gore-Tex waterproof breathable membrane alongside a thermal liner, the Dainese Scout Gore-Tex Gloves will easily be your go-to winter glove choice.

Check out our Dainese Scout Gore-Tex Gloves Review:



Let's dive right into the materials that make up the Dainese Scout GTX Gloves. The backhand of the Scout is constructed of Stone PU, a highly abrasion-resistant proprietary textile that affords some stretch for mobility and comfort. The palm is a full goatskin construction, which is lighter and offers comparable abrasion resistance to cowhide, but affords a great deal more dexterity. There are double layers of goatskin in high-wear areas to preserve the longevity of this glove in addition to foam inserts at the heel of the hand that will dampen vibration and also provide some resistance to impact in a get-off-and-slide scenario. There are elasticated panels at the backhand and thumb for uninhibited mobility when working the controls.

At the backhand, you'll see white stitching across the main knuckles and at the fingers. This stitching surrounds the techno impact protectors. The techno armor technology is thermoformed hard plastic that heat-bonded to stainless steel net, eliminating any stitching that would create a weak point and a potential damage area. In short, this is streamlined and sleek protection that provides a high degree of impact resistance. At the pinky, you'll find the Dainese Distortion Control system, found on many of their race gloves. This hard PU insert acts as a slider in the event of a lowside crash, and prevents any twisting or torsion on the pinky which could cause serious damage.

If you don't know Gore-Tex, it is the most breathable of any waterproof membrane on the market (they pioneered the technology) and guaranteed for life. If this glove ever leaks, it will be replaced with no questions asked. There is a Primaloft thermal liner in the Scout gloves, which is an extremely insulating material that is used by the US military and can also be found in outdoor gear such as sleeping bags and hunting equipment. One of our favorite features of the Scout gloves is the cuff, which is a full gauntlet that features a stretch material and can be cinched down extremely snugly to streamline easily under your jacket. Staying true to Dainese, these gloves are sleek and provide a ton of style and performance.

See more choices by visiting our Dainese Gloves and Winter Motorcycle Gear sections at RevZilla.com.

-RetroZilla

Previously:
Cold Weather Motorcycle Glove Guide
Dainese Fulcrum Gore-Tex Boots Review
Dainese Nighthawk Gore-Tex Boots Review
Dainese 2011 Sport Glove Overview

Monday, July 11

June 2011 Contest Winners!



Congratulations to our June 2011 contest winners! Lewis Stephens was our grand prize winner for the month, taking home a brand new AFX AX-8 DS Helmet. Our two second-prize winners were Hank Miller and Christopher Scales, each of whom received $50 RevZilla gift certificates to be put to use however they see fit.

Check out our July Klim Traverse Giveaway! If you've entered before, all you need to do is submit an answer to our "Question of the Month" to be re-entered to win! If you haven't entered before, simply create a rider profile to automatically be entered.

Good luck in July!

Previously:

Spidi XP7 WRS Boots Review

The Spidi XP7 WRS Boot is Spidi's flagship boot and designed to go toe-to-toe (get it?) with many other high end motorcycle race boot makers in the market. This boot is designed and built for the rider who does a heavy amount of their riding at the track. The XP7 also has a high amount of venting and perforation making it good for those high temperature conditions. This boot is really for the rider hammering down laps, trying to dive in and get a perfect apex through the corner. This XP7 is the more race-oriented brother of the more street focused Spidi XP3-S Boots. This boot offers an outstanding amount of protection and ventilation.

Check out our Spidi XP7 WRS Boots Review:



The Spidi XP7 WRS boots have every piece of technology Spidi has to offer when it comes down to protection and safety. The toe box is fully reinforced and incorporates a toe shifter on the top of the boot. To the outside of the toe-box is a bolted-on and replaceable toe slider. The toe slider is made of full metal to help extend its life and it's bolted on which means that there are no snaps to fumble with and there's no chance of it popping off during a wreck. An exposed rubber shock plate is incorporated into the ankle of the boot to protect the malleolus from fracturing on impact with asphalt; if a 450lb motorcycle lands on it in a low-side crash, the ankle wont get as badly damaged. 
A plastic fin on the back of the Achilles tendon makes this very vulnerable area a little safer, in addition to providing aerodynamic properties. A hard plastic heel cup provides extra support and protection for the back of the foot which is another very common injury area. A large shin deflector is what makes sure your lower leg doesn't get a direct impact and fracture to the tibia.


The entire construction of this boot is Lorica synthetic 
leather. This makes the boot much more consistent, lighter and more durable then natural leather. Red double impact stitching makes sure the boot doesn't come apart while burning across macadam. A stiff Skywalk sole is also a great feature that adds to comfort and is high-grip and anti-slip.

The big feature you're going to notice with these boots is the incredible amount of ventilation they offer. The boot is absolutely covered with perforation, from the front of the toe to the top the the flex panel at the front of the boot. Perforation on the back of the boot gives the incoming air
somewhere to escape out of and gives the foot full coverage in terms of breathability. The breathable moisture-wicking liner of the XP7 is designed to be comfortable and flow air and be unhindered. This is known as Spidi's Wind Racing System and is directly taken from the MotoGP level of boots.

The Spidi XP7 is a great choice for the rider looking for a very good summer and warm weather track boot in the mid-300 dollar price range. This is simply a great boot for the track days where the the temps are reaching triple digits. Sizes range from 41-47 Euro or 8-13 US.

Fast Freddie

Related:
Alpinestars SMX-Plus Race Boots Review
Dainese Torque Pro Out Boots Review
Sidi Cobra Boots Review: Brand New for 2010
Alpinestars S-MX 2 Air Carbon Glove Review

Friday, July 8

AGV K3 Helmet Review

AGV K3 Gothic Helmet
One of the best values at the sub-$200 price point, the AGV K3 Helmet borrows a ton of features from its big brother, the pro-level GP Tech worn by Valentino Rossi for many moons. Beyond the feature set within which you'll find excellent airflow and aerodynamics, Rossi fans will be happy with the multiple ever-changing legacy graphics that have been worn by The Doctor over the years. The shell is resilient and strong, yet sleek enough to cut through the wind, with a comfortable amount of ventilating qualities.

Check out our AGV K3 Helmet Review:



AGV K3 Dreamtime Helmet
The shell of the K3 is constructed from an extremely resilient thermoplastic resin and all graphics and colors are actually painted on as opposed to the stick-on decals that other manufacturers use. This speaks to the quality of the AGV Helmets family. For this price, the fact that this helmet (size MD) comes in at 3lbs 5oz is also a big deal. Inside, a removable and washable Dry-Lex liner and cheekpads is finished with a hygienic treatment to keep the funk at bay and is also moisture-wicking for comfort. As far as fit is concerned, the K3 uses the same shape as the GP Tech, a neutral oval that they found to be extremely ergonomic based on a three-dimensional study of thousands of head shapes. While this won't fit everyone's head (rounder HJC head shapes and super-long Arai Profile head shapes), it will fit a wide range of riders.

AGV K3 Helmet - Solid
The ventilation scheme is absolutely designed for the tuck or 3/4 position as are the aerodynamics. At the front, a chin vent and two chimney vents feed the air intake. At the rear, six extractor vents suck all of this air through the helmet to keep your head cool in the most active of riding situations. The shield is another standout feature of the K3 Helmet. The removal mechanism is AGV's XQRS, or Extra Quick Release System, and it literally takes seconds to take off or put on a new shield. The shield also uses AGV's Perimetrical Visor Seal, a thick gasket that lines the length of the shield and provides an extremely tight seal  that keeps wind noise to a minimum but also maintains a dry head in the event of a cloud burst.

AGV K3 Celebr8 Helmet
Overall, you're getting a sportbike helmet that provides a ton of value at its price point. For an extra few bucks, you can step up from a solid into the Rossi replica graphics, which will please a lot of riders. AGV is an Italian company committed to producing quality helmets, and the K3 represents another example of this dedication. To see comparable helmets, visit our Sportbike Helmets section.

-RetroZilla

Previously:
AGV GP Tech Helmet Review
Icon Alliance Freaky Tiki Helmet
Scorpion EXO-500 Helmet Review
Scorpion EXO-1100 Helmet

Thursday, July 7

AGV GP Tech Helmet Review

AGV GP Tech Rossi Wake UP LE Helmet
Loaded with graphical options that have been or are currently being worn by arguably the greatest MotoGP racer of all time, the AGV GP Tech Helmet is a serious pro-level race helmet that will compete head-to-head with the premium offerings of any top-level race helmet manufacturers. Extraordinarily lightweight, stable and speed, and with some of the best ventilation we see of any helmet within this range, it is no wonder that the GP Tech has been the choice of Valentino Rossi for a very long time. AGV Helmets still designs and manufactures this helmet exclusively in Italy.

Check out our AGV GP Tech Helmet Review:


AGV GP Tech Rossi Faces LE Helmet
Starting with the shell, AGV uses a dual-density Carbon Fiber and Kevlar weave that provides excellent resiliency and strength but is also very lightweight. A medium helmet comes in right around the 3.2-pound mark which is about as light as you can get for a full face helmet. Rather than using Snell, AGV has been going with DOT and ECE certifications. ECE22.05 is completely track-legal and provides comparable safety to Snell, but allows the helmet to be lighter than the Snell lids. For the shape of this helmet, AGV conducted a 3D study of thousands of head shapes and found that the most common headform is a true neutral oval. All of their helmets moving forward feature this ergonomic fitment that will fit a wide range of riders.

AGV GP Tech 5 Continents Helmet
Ventilation is monumental in the GP Tech. Using what they call the IVS, or Integrated Ventilation System, there are a total of three intake vents that feed ten total exhaust vents, with the vent holes hollowed straight through the EPS, traveling along channels at the top of the head. Every rider that gives feedback about this helmet seems to mention that the ventilation is superior to any helmet they've worn, which is ever so important on the racetrack. Inside, the Cool Max liner and cheek pads are fully removable and washable, antimicrobial, antibacterial and moisture-wicking. The finishing materials are very plush against the skin, and the stitched-in "AGV Helmets" logo is a nice touch that speaks to the attention to detail they put into this helmet.

AGV GP Tech Rossi Mugello LE Helmet
The faceshield is an anti-scratch and anti-fog polycarbonate shield that comes equipped with the tear-off system, so you can attach plastic strips to the visor, and rip them off as they get filled with bugs for an instant clear shield. The shield change mechanism is simple, and there are other shield tints available, all of which are equipped with the tear-off system. There are three shell sizes for the GP Tech: Size 1 is XXS, XS, S, M; Size 2 is L, XL; Size 3 is XXL, XXXL. So instant of simply bulking up cheekpads and having it look like you're a bobble head, AGV actually adjusts the shell size to keep the helmet streamlined and maintain its aerodynamics.

AGV GP Tech Marco Simoncelli Helmet
Also worn by Marco Simoncelli in MotoGP, the GP Tech features Italian quality and design that is undeniable. And with all the Rossi replica graphics, there is really something for everyone out there. To see comparable choices, visit our Sportbike Helmets section.

-RetroZilla

Previously:
Motorcycle Race Helmet Buying Guide
HJC RPS-10 Helmet Review
Super Premium Motorcycle Helmet Buying Guide
Bell RS-1 Helmet Review

Wednesday, July 6

New Monthly Contest: YouTube Gear Review


You know all about the look of our new Youtube channel, RevZillaTV, but now what? Well, now we're upping the stakes for video reviews with our Monthly Video Gear Review Contest. Now is your opportunity to shoot your own RevZilla.com gear review and win a $250 RevZilla gift card. It's pretty simple actually. And all it takes is a YouTube account.

1. Record a video review of your gear and upload it to YouTube.
2. Copy the URL of your video.
3. Go to the product page of the gear you reviewed on RevZilla.com.
4. Sign in or sign up (if you don't have an account already).
5. Write a review of your gear.
6. Add your YouTube video link where prompted in the review.
7. Submit your review.

(To see the visual representation of these steps, visit the Video Gear Review Contest page)

And that's it. You're automatically entered to win 250 clams towards anything at RevZilla.com. Show Anthony how a gear review video should be done.

Good luck and keep it two wheels down.

-RetroZilla

Cortech Latigo Waterproof & Air Boots Review

The much anticipated Cortech Latigo Waterproof Boots and Cortech Latigo Air Boots have finally arrived, and they deliver a tremendous value at a reasonable price point. The waterproof version is a great option for the sport tourer or foul-weather track enthusiast. The air option is a protective, high-airflow and high-performance track boot designed with the weekend warrior and entry-level trackday rider in mind. Each of these boots provides a great deal of protection and a ton of value right around the $150 price point. They are going to compete head-to-head with anything within their class as Cortech has made an excellent product for 2011.

Check out our Cortech Latigo Waterproof & Air Boots Review:



Let's start with what differentiates these boots and then get into their commonalities. Very clearly, the Air boot features a ton of perforation while the Waterproof is a solid synthetic leather upper. The Waterproof version also has a HiPora waterproof breathable membrane that will keep all precipitation out but allows your foot to breathe and sweat to evaporate through this layer. The membrane works in conjunction with the moisture-wicking breathable comfort liner to keep your foot cool and dry all day long. The Air has an Air-Mesh moisture-wicking bubble liner that differs slightly but will also act to keep your foot and lower leg comfortable in the most active of riding scenarios. Also, a gaiter backs the entry of the WP version to maintain waterproofing.

Okay, let's get into the similarities of these boots. Each of them is loaded with hard part protection throughout, crucial for the safety of the spirited sport rider and trackday enthusiast. At the toe, there is a replaceable molded TPU slider that will help in the event of a lowside crash. Both medially and laterally at the ankle, you'll find TPU hard parts that serve two purposes. First, in the event of a get-off, these will allow you to slide, rather than having the synthetic leather grip, twist and pull, which could cause serious damage. Next, the tongue-and-groove design limits the range of motion to prevent ankle damage by stopping hyperextension and hyperflexion.

The toe box is reinforced and heel cup features a bulked-up vented and contoured TPU cup at the exterior which will prevent crushing. At the shin, a molded TPU hard part guards against a footpeg injury and it is backed by shock-absorbing foam. Elasticated stretch panels at the instep and achilles are backed by shock-absorbing foam, and a hard TPU protector can be found at the achilles and calf area. At the medial side of each boot, there is a high-grip panel to help interface with the fairings. Each boot has a TPU shifter pad, an orthopedic vibration-absorbing insole, and a high-grip anti-slip rubber sole. The entry is an adjustable velcro flap with an autolocking zipper.

Gaiter-Backed WP Boot Entry
Simply stated, there is a ton of value to be found in the brand new Cortech Latigo Boots. Stepping up a tier in price, you'd find some extremely high-tech features, but most of those aren't necessary for the spirited street rider and occasional trackday enthusiast. These boots provide a ton of bang-for-the-buck at the price point and the competition can not be happy.

To take a look at comparable choices, visit our Motorcycle Race Boots section.

-RetroZilla

Air Version Boot Entry
Previously:
Alpinestars SMX-Plus Race Boots Review
Teknic Chicane Race Boots Review
Sidi ST Boots Review
2011 Motorcycle Boot Guides
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