HJC IS-Max 2

The HJC IS-Max 2 is a flip-front motorcycle helmet at a highly reasonable price point - but is it any good? Lets find out!

Safety

The HJC IS-Max 2 is, obviously, ECER2205 approved (as all motorcycle helmets have to be to be sold in Europe) and is made from a lightweight yet highly durable advanced polycarbonate composite shell. The closure is a quick ratchet chin strap which is not only easy to use but extremely reliable. A drop down sun visor keeps the sun out of your eyes and the visor is Pinlock ready with anti-scratch coating to keep your vision clear.

Styling

Although designed primarily for touring, the HJC IS-Max 2 flip front motorcycle helmet features an aggressive almost sports-like look and shell - which is also aerodynamic. This is also available in lots of colours and designs - more than most motorcycle helmets. There really is something for everyone!

Comfort

As this is a touring helmet this is extremely comfortable with a fully removable and washable Nylex interior to keep you fresh. The flip function has a very smooth and easy to use single button chin-bar release. The sunvisor is a one-touch, 3 stage internal sunvisor and this also comes with a multi-stage ventilation system with front inlet vents and rear extract vents for optimum air circulation that can be fully personalised.

Practicality

Flip-front motorcycle helmets are always practical for when you're wanting to pay for petrol etc. The IS-Max 2 also has a fully removable and washable Nylex interior with a handy glasses groove. The Pinlock ready visor with anti-scratch coating keeps your vision clear along with the internal sun visor in sunnier weather (which is a one-touch, 3 stage internal sunvisor) The flip mechanism is very simple to use with a single button chin-bar release that is very smooth to use. This also feature's HJC's QuickSlide visor replacement system which is highly practical and convenient and saves time and is suitable for all weathers with a multi-stage ventilation system with front inlet vents and rear extract vents that can be personalised to your own specification.

Negatives

The actual Pinlock insert is not included. It is available for an extra £24.99 - which considering this helmet is on sale at £149.99 isn't a bad deal at all. The advanced polycarbonate composite shell is not as strong as a fibreglass helmet nor as lightweight. Another negative is that this is not P and J homologated meaning you cannot ride legally with this open. Not neccessarily a bad point for most as a lot don't find this comfortable but if thats what you are looking for in a flip-front helmet then this isn't the helmet for you.

Outcome

For the £150 outlay you get a hell of a lot of bang for your buck with the HJC IS-Max 2. This is lightweight, comfortable and this isn't "clunky" its very easy and smooth to use and designed well with the buttons in what feels like the correct position. The other plus-point of this helmet is that if you're after a plain version you can get one, but if you're after something a bit different it offers that also but without the high price point. For more information watch the video below.

Until next time, stay safe,

Alex