When it comes to driving, Boston drivers have a certain "flair." So wearing a helmet while riding a Vespa just makes sense. Many would argue that wearing one while driving a car wouldn't be such a bad idea neither. Having lived in this city for over 20 years, we have to say they are really not all that bad. The traffic moves relatively slowly due to the windy (and we don't mean air speed) roads and the associated congestion. Someone on a Vespa with top speed of 35 mph really can keep up with traffic. OK, we wouldn't try it on Storrow Drive, but riding on Memorial Drive during rush hour would not be a problem. Regardless, we would not do it without wearing a helmet.
When we purchased the Vespa last season, it came with a half helmet. For riding in the city we wanted to get a full face helmet. We checked around and found a good deal on a used Nolan. A big reason why we went with the Nolan helmet is the pivoting chin bar. This design has both the protection advantages of a full-face helmet and the ease of an open-face helmets. There are many occassions where it is convenient to not have to take the helmet off (snacking, getting quick drink, etc...).
The pivoting chin bar may be unlocked with a button on the left. Pushing levers on the underside frees the catch-mechanism and the bar may be easily pivoted up and out of the way.
This Nolan helment also has scoops and vents to help circulate air inside the helmet. The scoops on top and front are easily adjustible. The vents really do make a big difference in both keeping the head cool and the face shield from fogging up.
We have had this Nolan helment since last October and have not experienced what it is like wearing it on a really hot day. We'll report back in August and let you know how this helmet performed after a few rides on 90º days. [Permalink] - Nolan Helmets
|
