Omega Owners Forum
Chat Area => General Discussion Area => Topic started by: tunnie on 01 July 2014, 11:33:24
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Ear plug recommendations :)
Now I'm using the bike on my daily commute, I'm looking for some better ones. I normally use the yellow disposable foam ones, they are ok, but I find they often shift when putting helmet on. Last a day or two tops, thinking of some better ones, once this bag runs out.
When I went shooting I had some 3M ones, much smaller and felt better, but can't find same ones I was supplied with.
I'm also considering investing in some non-disposable ones like this: http://www.ultimateear.com/ (http://www.ultimateear.com/)
A professional mould is taken to create them, quite expensive, but could be worth it? :-\
I have tried the DIY ones you mix together to form your own mould, but they did not work very well.
Thoughts? :-\
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Might try these:
http://uk.rs-online.com/web/p/ear-plugs/5167237/ (http://uk.rs-online.com/web/p/ear-plugs/5167237/)
or these
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Pairs-Howard-Leight-Laser-Plugs/dp/B00A25JLN0/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Pairs-Howard-Leight-Laser-Plugs/dp/B00A25JLN0/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top)
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Disposable ones are single use and, er, disposable... using them more than once is leaving you open to ear infections etc :-\
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Disposable ones are single use and, er, disposable... using them more than once is leaving you open to ear infections etc :-\
Err yeah I know that ::) ???
Hence asking for reviews of mould ones ;)
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Disposable ones are single use and, er, disposable... using them more than once is leaving you open to ear infections etc :-\
Or just wash them ;)
http://www.screwfix.com/p/3m-ear-classic-foam-disposable-ear-plugs-5-pairs/40332# (http://www.screwfix.com/p/3m-ear-classic-foam-disposable-ear-plugs-5-pairs/40332#)
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Disposable ones are single use and, er, disposable... using them more than once is leaving you open to ear infections etc :-\
Why are non disposable ones less likely ? Same ear I suppose. But other than that... :-\
I hate the bloody things personally. Doesn't matter what type, from head phones to in ear plugs and buds they make the ear sweaty and itchy eventually. Head phones less so obviously but they all irritate in the end, and with a helmet on you can't adjust them without stopping, gloves off, helmet off , dick about ::)
Unless your on the motorway for more than 10mins I would not bother personally. I good fitting helmet that plugs that channel between the neck and jaw leading up the the ear is much more effective in limiting noise ime, when taking into account convenience and fafing about putting reusable ear plug in your ear then finding the little clean box to store them in. Pita.
However if your spending long periods at motorway speeds then they are a must really. Although they restrict hearing engine rpm which I find awkward balancing blipped downshifts to road speed, clutch bite point, etc if there's other noisy road users about.
I guess the ideal design would be noise cancelling above a certain dB. But no idea if such a thing exists. Bose have only just come out with noise cancelling music in ear buds so I doubt it, and would be mega bucks anyway. Plus there's still a sizeable lump outside the ear that probably wouldn't work with a helmet on.
I did consider the in ear moulded ones but they would have to have speakers in them for music as well to get full use and justify costs and all eventualities for intercoms and sat navs etc.
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Used them once didnt like them , i think its better to hear everything around you including the bike ... for work we use to use those foam things on a plastic cord , decent sound reduction but irritating for more than a few hours :(
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I commute up the M3 to Brentford, so fair bit of motorway really.
I have used disposable ones for up to 3 days when touring without an issue, they just loose their 'spring' and no longer plug a gap. The ones I have, do give fair amount of engine noise I'm generally happy with them up to 60mph. I don't really buy the ear infections, a mate who has hearing aids uses his day in day out 365 days a year. Maybe gets new set every few years, never has a problem.
Current ones give too much wind noise, I've been considering a new lid. I like these: http://www.shark-helmets.com/product.php?sous_gamme=Vision-R%20series2&gamme=SHARK%20Discovery%20Division&code_gamme=DISCO&code_sous_gamme=VIS (http://www.shark-helmets.com/product.php?sous_gamme=Vision-R%20series2&gamme=SHARK%20Discovery%20Division&code_gamme=DISCO&code_sous_gamme=VIS)
Tinted flip down, as conditions do change, wider viewing angle and chin curtain along with better sound proofing. I have a Shoei at the moment, which is very comfy :)
But each plugs are a lot cheaper ;D - Switched to a summer screen on the GS which is great, less buffeting, just want to bring wind noise down a bit at 60-80mph cruise speeds.
3M ones I linked to above, look identical too ones I used when shooting, will give those a try.
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I always found the Shark helmets give best wind reduction noise , never tried the £4-500 top make ones like Arai so wouldnt know ..just went for gold star rated
i mean who would pay this ::) Arai RX-7 RC (http://www.google.co.uk/aclk?sa=l&ai=CgNBZCayyU-KYOeOS7gbarYFYivDgsATq9NbhlAGKwu7r8wEIBhABKAhQ7a-OP2C7tquD0AqgAcal7_4DyAEHqQKKaZThAMK8PqoEJk_Q6YcXqkRIUxf6NdUXaiFTatqgcVhPHIokx2q2SazJ0HbsKbFFugUTCL2k5oyRpL8CFbQz2wodACQANsAFBcoFAKAGJoAHotqQAZAHA-AS7KW41vz1jNuqAQ&ei=CayyU_37NLTn7AaAyICwAw&sig=AOD64_2ImZE0JT9BCFsutS5anLfSXuU0ww&ctype=5&sqi=2&ved=0CKEBEPQO&adurl=http://www.getgeared.co.uk/ARAI_Motorcycle_Helmet_RX-7_RC_Carbon_Fibre%3Futm_source%3Dgoogle%26utm_medium%3Dshopping_feed_uk56%26leadsource%3DGSUK)
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I've heard good things about the Shark ones, very quiet lids in general. I'm also keen on flip down tinted bit, as each way is directly into the sun on my commute. Often it's cloudy/low light but before long sun is blasting out.
Makes choosing clear or tinted visor a pain :(
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I've used "musicians" ear plugs like these in open top cars: http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Musicians-Ear-Plugs-Clear-EAR-3M-Earplugs-Music-Earplugs-1-Pair-/331036124665
Work really well and attenuate the worst of the noise nicely while still letting you hear sirens etc.
For moulded ones, what about: http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/PROGUARD-HEARING-EAR-PROTECTION-MOULD-YOUR-OWN-CUSTOM-EAR-PLUGS-DRUMMER-DJ-BEIGE-/111372499268?pt=UK_BOI_ProtectiveGear_RL&hash=item19ee517944 ? Not tried them myself.
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Tried the DIY mould ones, no good really.
Tempted by those Musicians ones though, worth a pop at that price :)
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What you mean to say is, your head gives a lot of wind noise in a particular helmet. In that if your head fitted the particular helmet better it would not be so noisy.
Take Arai and Shoei. Top end brands very little difference in noise but most people either have a Shoei shaped head or an Arai shaped head.
If I put an Arai on they are horrendously loud for me, because they are wider around the neck/opening, therefor dint fit snuggle under the ears. So crank up the speeds and you effectively have a vacuum under the helmet as the passing air tries to suck your brains through your ear holes. Its agony.
However if I put a Shoei on, it fits my head, its tight under the ears, and I feel I don't need ear plugs at all. Although at higher speeds that's not the case of course.
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Noticed newer lids have a chin curtin, as a test the other day, I put my hand underneath the lid where my chin is. Did cut down noise considerably, also did put my hand under left side or right side, it did reduce noise.
Had lid since 2009, perhaps time upgraded. Will have to find a shop with that Shark one.
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I find if you look at the lid opening the narrower the gap the better. If it takes your ears off when putting it on is better..... type of thing. (||)
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Also, re age of the lid, apart from anything else, the more times you take it on and off, the more the padding in the opening compresses and gets tired, and the more noise gets in.
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I find if you look at the lid opening the narrower the gap the better. If it takes your ears off when putting it on is better..... type of thing. (||)
Current one slides on and off easy, too loose then! I remember when learning their lids did try to pull my ears off ;D
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Ps you can try it yourself by stuffing, a sock, say, up under your ear between the neck and helmet, or have the lid altered. Shoei and Arai do a fitting service, although I've never used it.
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I find if you look at the lid opening the narrower the gap the better. If it takes your ears off when putting it on is better..... type of thing. (||)
Current one slides on and off easy, too loose then! I remember when learning their lids did try to pull my ears off ;D
:-X ;D
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After thought, if like me, you hold the straps apart while putting lid on, that action pulls the pudding aside. And naturally weakens the foam padding, you can see that wear on older lids.
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After thought, if like me, you hold the straps apart while putting lid on, that action pulls the pudding aside. And naturally weakens the foam padding, you can see that wear on older lids.
Yeah I do that :(
Habbit I guess, give it a fair amount pulling the straps, to make sure it does not snag the ear plugs. Guess that's not right way.
Good shout on socks, might give that a whirl. Will do that in garage, might look a bit odd at work ;D
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Consider a visit to a local hearing aid fitting place. The House of Hearing fitted my last job set (personal mould etc) and end result had a grommet fitted to specifically exclude extraneous noise but allowed radio to be heard. Grommet also allowed ventilation of the eardrum which reduced wax buildup/pain over extended use. :y
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After thought, if like me, you hold the straps apart while putting lid on, that action pulls the pudding aside. And naturally weakens the foam padding, you can see that wear on older lids.
That's about the only way I can get a helmet on without literally tearing my ears off.. ;D Apparently I have a very large head :(
Only really found one comfortable helmet and that was an expensive Arai IIRC .. so I just live with the pain my cheap Aldi helmet causes around my jaw (where it tries to crush the rear part of my jaw constantly). No wind noise though as I have a windscreen in front of me..
See this is where you're both going wrong :P :D
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Consider a visit to a local hearing aid fitting place. The House of Hearing fitted my last job set (personal mould etc) and end result had a grommet fitted to specifically exclude extraneous noise but allowed radio to be heard. Grommet also allowed ventilation of the eardrum which reduced wax buildup/pain over extended use. :y
Yeah, strongly thinking this. They take a mould and create ones bespoke to me :)
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Used to occasionally use the disposable ones at the airport... I'm susceptible to ear infections any way, but unless you're a monk, constantly taking them in/out and putting down somewhere can only lead to picking up bugs etc... Was told it didn't matter if you used a hundred pairs a day, but replace with new each time.
Number of people you see bumbling around on the road with headphones in is frightening.
Blocking off one of your key senses on the road strikes me as daft tbh :-\
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Used to occasionally use the disposable ones at the airport... I'm susceptible to ear infections any way, but unless you're a monk, constantly taking them in/out and putting down somewhere can only lead to picking up bugs etc... Was told it didn't matter if you used a hundred pairs a day, but replace with new each time.
Number of people you see bumbling around on the road with headphones in is frightening.
Blocking off one of your key senses on the road strikes me as daft tbh :-\
It's not blocking it off though, removing wind noise but allowing other sounds to remain. Such as engine/cars, as just 15 minutes on a motorway can damage you hearing.
Have you actually tried riding a motorbike, with no ear plugs at 70mph? ::)
Bit of reading for non-bikers without actual experience or get why they are needed: http://www.hearingtestlabs.com/motorcycle.htm (http://www.hearingtestlabs.com/motorcycle.htm)
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Used to occasionally use the disposable ones at the airport... I'm susceptible to ear infections any way, but unless you're a monk, constantly taking them in/out and putting down somewhere can only lead to picking up bugs etc... Was told it didn't matter if you used a hundred pairs a day, but replace with new each time.
Number of people you see bumbling around on the road with headphones in is frightening.
Blocking off one of your key senses on the road strikes me as daft tbh :-\
It's not blocking it off though, removing wind noise but allowing other sounds to remain. Such as engine/cars, as just 15 minutes on a motorway can damage you hearing.
Have you actually tried riding a motorbike, with no ear plugs at 70mph? ::)
Bit of reading for non-bikers without actual experience or get why they are needed: http://www.hearingtestlabs.com/motorcycle.htm (http://www.hearingtestlabs.com/motorcycle.htm)
No, nor do I ever intend to ::)
That said, I doubt you've stood on an apron with four RB211s a full chat next to you... ::)
I contributed as a user of the disposable defenders, but obviously not being a biker makes me a second class person apparently ::) have to say that I'm with Aaron on this... to misquote George Orwell, "Four wheels, good. Two wheels, baaad."
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Used to occasionally use the disposable ones at the airport... I'm susceptible to ear infections any way, but unless you're a monk, constantly taking them in/out and putting down somewhere can only lead to picking up bugs etc... Was told it didn't matter if you used a hundred pairs a day, but replace with new each time.
Number of people you see bumbling around on the road with headphones in is frightening.
Blocking off one of your key senses on the road strikes me as daft tbh :-\
It's not blocking it off though, removing wind noise but allowing other sounds to remain. Such as engine/cars, as just 15 minutes on a motorway can damage you hearing.
Have you actually tried riding a motorbike, with no ear plugs at 70mph? ::)
Bit of reading for non-bikers without actual experience or get why they are needed: http://www.hearingtestlabs.com/motorcycle.htm (http://www.hearingtestlabs.com/motorcycle.htm)
No, nor do I ever intend to ::)
That said, I doubt you've stood on an apron with four RB211s a full chat next to you... ::)
I contributed as a user of the disposable defenders, but obviously not being a biker makes me a second class person apparently ::) have to say that I'm with Aaron on this... to misquote George Orwell, "Four wheels, good. Two wheels, baaad."
Always so sodding difficult to have a conversation with you ::)
So you have no actual experience of what we are talking about here, using ear plugs occasionally at airport and on a bike daily are a tad different. I never stated 'second class person', where did that come from? WTF? ???
Similar to tyre threads, you often don't like people giving opinions with zero experience of the situation and product. ::)
Four wheels good for London commute? No.
Two wheels bad for London commute? No.
35 mins and always parking available vs 55-90mins and no parking past 08:30. Go figure ;)
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Ah yes of course must all be my fault ::)
Sustained noise levels at an airport are similar, if not higher than what you're exopsed to for your jolly on the M3. Occasional use of said earplugs was through choice, they're technically required to be worn once airside. And given that I worked airside for over 11 years, even once a day occasional use equates to hands on experience of over three thousand times... But then wtf do I know ::)
Edited for fat finger spelling, as that is probably wrong too...
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Brick wall with you, seriously. WTF. ;D
Anywho, good advice from Bruce on custom plugs via Hearing Aid moulds and some good stuff from Chris on airflow around the lid at speed. Also thanks to aaronjb for the link on the ones he has experience with and used :)
Thanks for all for the sensible and constructive replies :y :y :y :y
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You're welcome...
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I find that the more vents a lid has generally the noisier it is. My son bought me a cheap crash helmet for my birthday (to match his) and even though it was around £60 it was much much quieter than my £180 AGV. I now use the cheapie all the time and its fine up to reasonable speeds. If I think I might be getting a move on I stick in some freebee earplugs I got from the Bennetts girls down at the Ace Café Brighton burn up do. Not only do they help keep the worst of the noise out but Its nice to think of who gave me them. :-* :y
If you've been you will know what I mean! :y
On the odd occasion I also use my "bandit" helmet (Simpson clone) that only has the vents at the front and that is very quite at all speeds, just not quite legal.
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Cheers, always been a bit put off the cheapies on safety grounds. When I was learning they said look for the gold sticker :-\
The Shark, although not tried one yet, gets very good reviews and 'middle of the road' in terms of cost.
Ps you can try it yourself by stuffing, a sock, say, up under your ear between the neck and helmet, or have the lid altered. Shoei and Arai do a fitting service, although I've never used it.
This was a really good shout, I stuffed a sock in the left hand side on the way back. Reduced the noise considerably, so much so, looked down at speed never usually get such low noise at higher speeds. Interestingly I could not get sock in on the right side. So must have gone weak on one side?
Called by here on the way home... http://www.infinitymotorcycles.com/ (http://www.infinitymotorcycles.com/)
Tried a various Schuberth's not that impressed, tried a few others some did rip my ears off ;D
None were as comfy as my Shoei though, but I was disappointed by the range of Shoei with flip down sun visors could not see any, only their new 'Air' has them, so not in discount place. :(
Not got any Shark ones to try. :(
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Why would you want to impear,your hearing when riding or driving on the public highway,same as the numbtys you now see wearing earphones.,
be interesting to see what the police or insurance would say, if found you had ear plugs in and had an accident.
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Why would you want to impear,your hearing when riding or driving on the public highway,same as the numbtys you now see wearing earphones.,
be interesting to see what the police or insurance would say, if found you had ear plugs in and had an accident.
Careful... that almost reads like an opinion ::)
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Why would you want to impear,your hearing when riding or driving on the public highway,same as the numbtys you now see wearing earphones.,
be interesting to see what the police or insurance would say, if found you had ear plugs in and had an accident.
Careful... that almost reads like an opinion ::)
whoops. :)
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Oh I'm sure they'd give you 3points on the spot, Big ;D
Especially if fatal ::)
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I've used the foam ear plugs, same pair for years with no ear infection problems. As soon as I take them out, I just put them in small plastic box, so they didn't get lost or damaged. Likewise, I've kept to using them (I think they were free with MCN) as they fit just right, where I have tried alternatives, they were either too big or too small which means that they have a tendency to move or pop out. :( It might be worth trying a few different makes / sizes until you find one that fits just right. :y
My AVG helmet is very noisy and they do make a big difference. At one time I was doing a 70 mile round trip commute 2 or 3 times a week with most of it at motorway, dual carriageway and national speed limit speeds. I certainly noticed the end of journey hearing attenuation on the odd occasion I forgot to put them in. :o I also found they provided enough attenuation, but not so much you couldn't hear things around you. :y
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Oh I'm sure they'd give you 3points on the spot, Big ;D
Especially if fatal ::)
only 3.
never find a policeman when you need one, weres jasonm.
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Why would you want to impear,your hearing when riding or driving on the public highway,same as the numbtys you now see wearing earphones.,
be interesting to see what the police or insurance would say, if found you had ear plugs in and had an accident.
What about the police motorcyclists with their comms. headphones?
I always found earplugs allow you to hear engine noise etc. and the white noise sound from moving air is quite high frequency, which ear plugs are better at attenuating.
On a bike you are much more in touch with your surrounding including sounds with ear plugs than you are in a car, especially if the radio / CD player is set to a Chav level 11. :D
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Why would you want to impear,your hearing when riding or driving on the public highway,same as the numbtys you now see wearing earphones.,
be interesting to see what the police or insurance would say, if found you had ear plugs in and had an accident.
If you read what has gone before and understand the basics, earplugs reduce harmful windnoise, but retain engine and other sounds. Most bikers use them, including police riders ::)
Try this for size.... stick your head out of the car window at 70mph, see how you like it! ;)
I asked for advice on people who used them, if you don't have a fricking clue about subject why show your complete stupidity? ::) Fluck me.
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I've used the foam ear plugs, same pair for years with no ear infection problems. As soon as I take them out, I just put them in small plastic box, so they didn't get lost or damaged. Likewise, I've kept to using them (I think they were free with MCN) as they fit just right, where I have tried alternatives, they were either too big or too small which means that they have a tendency to move or pop out. :( It might be worth trying a few different makes / sizes until you find one that fits just right. :y
My AVG helmet is very noisy and they do make a big difference. At one time I was doing a 70 mile round trip commute 2 or 3 times a week with most of it at motorway, dual carriageway and national speed limit speeds. I certainly noticed the end of journey hearing attenuation on the odd occasion I forgot to put them in. :o I also found they provided enough attenuation, but not so much you couldn't hear things around you. :y
As mentioned before, generally happy with ones I have, but they are a bag I bought about 4 years ago, just off shelf in a bike shop, without really looking into them. Fine for touring, but day-day use, need something a little better. :)
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Someone called for a policeman?
http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/peter-hall-police-motorcyclist-wins-3498249 (http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/peter-hall-police-motorcyclist-wins-3498249)
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I reckon you're better off with a better lid, tunnie.
As you know, when I had a bike, I never used ear plugs, and even at reasonably sustained speeds that you wouldn't be doing, never had an issue. *But* I had a lid that suits my nut, as opposed to one that had specific features I wanted.
Whilst he's not a biker, I do agree with Taxi Al, you don't want to suppress signs of danger. Be it a car, cyclist, or even a new rattle from your own bike.
I'm surprised you find it an issue at 70mph on your beemer - IIRC, it has a full screen on it which sound significantly reduce wind noise, and its hardly a loud bike.
My advice would be to treat yourself to a new skid-lid, and go for the one fits the best. I know you really want that Shark one, but if its not the best fit, its not the correct one for you. IMHO anyway.
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Why would you want to impear,your hearing when riding or driving on the public highway,same as the numbtys you now see wearing earphones.,
be interesting to see what the police or insurance would say, if found you had ear plugs in and had an accident.
If you read what has gone before and understand the basics, earplugs reduce harmful windnoise, but retain engine and other sounds. Most bikers use them, including police riders ::)
Try this for size.... stick your head out of the car window at 70mph, see how you like it! ;)
I asked for advice on people who used them, if you don't have a fricking clue about subject why show your complete stupidity? ::) Fluck me.
Chill pill, calm it
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I reckon you're better off with a better lid, tunnie.
I originally got my Shoei, based on comfort and fact it's a decent brand. It's still very comfy, but in the changeable conditions of the commute and fact it's directly into the sun each eay, I'd find a flip down sunshade very handy.
I removed the large screen, I've got a much smaller one now. Wind noise is the same though. Found the smaller one much better for visibility in and commuting, see better and gives much view when doing those tight London filters.
Putting hands around various parts of the helmet, I can reduce the noise. As said to Chris, it does not pull me ears off any more, it goes on maybe a little too easy. Does not rub against my ears going on/off.
Quite like Shoei GT Air, but big bucks
http://www.helmetcity.co.uk/products/Shoei-GT%252dAir-Regalia-TC%252d2-2014-%26-Free-Gifts.html (http://www.helmetcity.co.uk/products/Shoei-GT%252dAir-Regalia-TC%252d2-2014-%26-Free-Gifts.html)
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Think need to go to a 'proper' bike shop, place locally not really interested in how things fit. Just sell in bulk.
My test at the time was hold lid still, should not be able to turn your head. :-\
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but in the changeable conditions of the commute and fact it's directly into the sun each eay, I'd find a flip down sunshade very handy.
Fully understand that, but the best fit (as opposed to "good enough") is the primary concern.
I too used to commute into the sun (well, I still do, just I don't have a bike ;D), do understand - I used to carry 2 visors, as you know, and make a judgement on which is best before setting out... ...of if it was too changeable, used the clear one, and a set of CHiPs style sunglasses that I kept in that cubby hole on the ZX10, and could put on or off whilst going along :-X
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Tried sunglasses, they mist up too easily. :(
Correct fit is my first concern, tried some earlier today which have a flippable sun shade, but fit was not right. :)
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but in the changeable conditions of the commute and fact it's directly into the sun each eay, I'd find a flip down sunshade very handy.
Fully understand that, but the best fit (as opposed to "good enough") is the primary concern.
I too used to commute into the sun (well, I still do, just I don't have a bike ;D), do understand - I used to carry 2 visors, as you know, and make a judgement on which is best before setting out... ...of if it was too changeable, used the clear one, and a set of CHiPs style sunglasses that I kept in that cubby hole on the ZX10, and could put on or off whilst going along :-X
Your not as young as I thought........ ;) :D :-X
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but in the changeable conditions of the commute and fact it's directly into the sun each eay, I'd find a flip down sunshade very handy.
Fully understand that, but the best fit (as opposed to "good enough") is the primary concern.
I too used to commute into the sun (well, I still do, just I don't have a bike ;D), do understand - I used to carry 2 visors, as you know, and make a judgement on which is best before setting out... ...of if it was too changeable, used the clear one, and a set of CHiPs style sunglasses that I kept in that cubby hole on the ZX10, and could put on or off whilst going along :-X
Your not as young as I thought........ ;) :D :-X
Essential Saturday afternoon viewing at the time...
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but in the changeable conditions of the commute and fact it's directly into the sun each eay, I'd find a flip down sunshade very handy.
Fully understand that, but the best fit (as opposed to "good enough") is the primary concern.
I too used to commute into the sun (well, I still do, just I don't have a bike ;D), do understand - I used to carry 2 visors, as you know, and make a judgement on which is best before setting out... ...of if it was too changeable, used the clear one, and a set of CHiPs style sunglasses that I kept in that cubby hole on the ZX10, and could put on or off whilst going along :-X
Your not as young as I thought........ ;) :D :-X
Essential Saturday afternoon viewing at the time...
:y :y
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but in the changeable conditions of the commute and fact it's directly into the sun each eay, I'd find a flip down sunshade very handy.
Fully understand that, but the best fit (as opposed to "good enough") is the primary concern.
I too used to commute into the sun (well, I still do, just I don't have a bike ;D), do understand - I used to carry 2 visors, as you know, and make a judgement on which is best before setting out... ...of if it was too changeable, used the clear one, and a set of CHiPs style sunglasses that I kept in that cubby hole on the ZX10, and could put on or off whilst going along :-X
You also had speakers in your helmet, blasting tunes out and used as phone. I route I personally would not go down, as speakers are over powering surroundings.
That said, I really do need to try new lids. I rode back from shop without ear plugs, even 30-40mph the wind noise was considerable, 70mph would be unbearable. Sometimes on the commute the plugs have slipped out, my ear would have slight ringing when I got home, so way too loud.
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I don't think the dirty air from the screen helps, because if I stand up on the pegs, the noise is reduced massively, as I'm in clean air.
Took screen off for a laugh, rode without one. Hardly any wind noise, but little too much wind blast ;D
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You also had speakers in your helmet, blasting tunes out and used as phone. I route I personally would not go down, as speakers are over powering surroundings.
And have happily held phone conversations at *cough* speed. So whilst I can't condone phone usage whilst riding, it does show that the helmet kept the wind noise out :). Also, not that you'd fit my helmet (ooo-err missus), but you'd be surprised how quiet it was all set.
That said, I really do need to try new lids. I rode back from shop without ear plugs, even 30-40mph the wind noise was considerable, 70mph would be unbearable. Sometimes on the commute the plugs have slipped out, my ear would have slight ringing when I got home, so way too loud.
I used to use plugs with my previous helmet (just the yellow disposable ones), and:
a) found them to be a little too effective
b) prone to falling out (not completely, just shifting enough to allow too much noise in), maybe I have funny ears ;D
c) can confirm that a properly fitted helmet does really make a difference
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I don't think the dirty air from the screen helps, because if I stand up on the pegs, the noise is reduced massively, as I'm in clean air.
Took screen off for a laugh, rode without one. Hardly any wind noise, but little too much wind blast ;D
My bike that you knew had a non OE screen, which was much smaller than OE.
Being fully faired, its impossible to say if the shape does help keep air away from the rider :-\. But I'd say not as much as your full screen.
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Ditched full screen, got one fraction of the size. I think the air is hitting underside of the helmet, sending air into it. As stuffing stock up one side, really helped today.
As I'm happy with screen position in terms of body buffeting, just noise is the problem. I could make screen lower I guess, so airflow hits my chest, rather than further up :-\
But as you said a decent lid should not allow air/noise there, no matter how screen is positioned :-\
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Good review of this..
http://dailybikers.com/shoei-gt-air-helmet-review/ (http://dailybikers.com/shoei-gt-air-helmet-review/)
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For your particular problem, I don't think reviews are worthwhile. Its too personal.
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For your particular problem, I don't think reviews are worthwhile. Its too personal.
Humm, thing is problem is 60-80.
Around town it's silent, up to 55/60 it's ok too. Only when speed limit goes motorway and you roll on the speed does it get too loud.
Because it's fine less than 60, but higher is problem, wondering if that does point to lid? (rather than screen position) As said before standing up a little on the pegs and massive reduction in noise. :-\
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Shame I don't have bike insurance any more, as I could have given yours a motorway speed blast and see what I was getting, noise wise, with my lid.
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Slow down then... Job jobbed ::)
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I'd stick with the socks on cost grounds! :D Just make sure they're clean ones!! ::) ;D
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Yeah that would have been a good test, are you going to get another as your No claims will probably expire for the bike soon?
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Slow down then... Job jobbed ::)
Stupid boy Pike!
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Yeah that would have been a good test, are you going to get another as your No claims will probably expire for the bike soon?
I think I retain my NCD for 2yrs. No plans to get another this year. As I said to you a couple of years ago, if I went without a bike for more than a short time, I'd probably never get another. It will be a year in 10 days time...
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but in the changeable conditions of the commute and fact it's directly into the sun each eay, I'd find a flip down sunshade very handy.
Fully understand that, but the best fit (as opposed to "good enough") is the primary concern.
I too used to commute into the sun (well, I still do, just I don't have a bike ;D), do understand - I used to carry 2 visors, as you know, and make a judgement on which is best before setting out... ...of if it was too changeable, used the clear one, and a set of CHiPs style sunglasses that I kept in that cubby hole on the ZX10, and could put on or off whilst going along :-X
Your not as young as I thought........ ;) :D :-X
Essential Saturday afternoon viewing at the time...
Along with Airwolf, The A Team and Knight Rider 8) Does anyone recall Highwaymen :-\
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Slow down even more then... Job jobbed ::)
Stupid boy Pike!
Sorry Dad ;D fixed :y
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Just tried Shoei's fitting guide...
1) With the helmet on and the chin strap fastened, shake your head side to side. If the helmet moves independently of your head then the helmet is too big. The helmet lining and cheek pads should be in direct contact with your skin. While shaking your head, your skin should move with the helmet.
Unsure, there is movement. If I hold the helmet, I can rotate my head inside, with helmet staying fixed.
2) Place one hand on he back of the helmet and push forward. Use your other hand and try to slip your little finger between your forehead and the helmet lining through the visor aperture. If there is room for more than just the tip of your finger, the helmet is too big.
Fail - Can get my whole little finger in this gap, it can touch the top of the lid.
3) Lastly, place one hand on the chin bar and push up (while the chin strap is secured), if the helmet comes off your head, it is too big. Next, place one hand on the back and push up again, if the helmet rolls off of your head, it is too big.
Fail on this too, top part of the lid does lift off my head, so that it's no longer in contact with my head.
You are right, new lid me thinks :)
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Funny you should mention Shark as a good friend of mine works at Helmet City and when I used to moan about the noise of the AGV he said that the Shark range of helmets are a lot quieter.
I must admit I never used to use ear plugs as I to found them a bit odd and uncomfortable but it is surprising how quick you get used to them and to all the people who think they block out all the noise you are wrong. Your ears get used to a certain level of noise and therefore when you have the ear plugs in you can still hear things going on fine but as previously stated they reduce the higher levels of noise to something that will not eventually make you deaf. Even sticking you finger in your ear will let you hear most things, and sticking a lump of foam/plastic in there does not cancel out the whole world but it does take the edge off.
Or of course you could ride slower but what's the fun in that?
I have the tin slug for that. ;D
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Just tried Shoei's fitting guide...
1) With the helmet on and the chin strap fastened, shake your head side to side. If the helmet moves independently of your head then the helmet is too big. The helmet lining and cheek pads should be in direct contact with your skin. While shaking your head, your skin should move with the helmet.
Unsure, there is movement. If I hold the helmet, I can rotate my head inside, with helmet staying fixed.
2) Place one hand on he back of the helmet and push forward. Use your other hand and try to slip your little finger between your forehead and the helmet lining through the visor aperture. If there is room for more than just the tip of your finger, the helmet is too big.
Fail - Can get my whole little finger in this gap, it can touch the top of the lid.
3) Lastly, place one hand on the chin bar and push up (while the chin strap is secured), if the helmet comes off your head, it is too big. Next, place one hand on the back and push up again, if the helmet rolls off of your head, it is too big.
Fail on this too, top part of the lid does lift off my head, so that it's no longer in contact with my head.
You are right, new lid me thinks :)
Well sir I am afraid your helmet is to big.....Ohh errr :D
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Funny you should mention Shark as a good friend of mine works at Helmet City and when I used to moan about the noise of the AGV he said that the Shark range of helmets are a lot quieter.
I must admit I never used to use ear plugs as I to found them a bit odd and uncomfortable but it is surprising how quick you get used to them and to all the people who think they block out all the noise you are wrong. Your ears get used to a certain level of noise and therefore when you have the ear plugs in you can still hear things going on fine but as previously stated they reduce the higher levels of noise to something that will not eventually make you deaf. Even sticking you finger in your ear will let you hear most things, and sticking a lump of foam/plastic in there does not cancel out the whole world but it does take the edge off.
Or of course you could ride slower but what's the fun in that?
I have the tin slug for that. ;D
Thanks, felt I was alone in stating these facts. Glad to see someone else in similar position. :y :y
Keep getting links to Helmet City, can you get any discount codes? :P
Likewise I hear good things about Shark, really, really need to try them. My Shoei has been great though, with OE visor fab in heavy rain, no mist.
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No discount codes I am afraid (didn't even know they did them) , but I am sure if you speak with them they will try and do something for you. I always pop in if I want something as its just up the road from me. The thing with helmets apparently is that certain helmets are better at fitting certain shaped heads and therefore what is blinding for one person is hopeless on another. The noise thing is different as a noisy helmet is always a noisy helmet as it is mostly down to the design.
I don't ride so much in the rain now (so misting visor not a problem) as I restore early jap (70's-90's) bikes so don't like getting them too dirty as I hate cleaning them.
Been out tonight to a local (ish) meet and it was lovely out.
I also find that the wind noise is dependant on what jacket I wear, my leather is fairly quite and my textile quite noisy. I think the shoulder pads on the textile pushes the air up under the lid so when I have that on and I am shifting ear pads are a must nowadays.
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No discount codes I am afraid (didn't even know they did them) , but I am sure if you speak with them they will try and do something for you.
Thanks might take you up on that, i'm going to have to try more on, as you say, head types vs helmets. I may not have a Shark or Arai head.
as I restore early jap (70's-90's) bikes so don't like getting them too dirty as I hate cleaning them.
Ahhh interesting, done any Yam RD400's? FatherT had one of those, see quite a few 250's but no 400's - The size difference between them and my GS is staggering.
I also find that the wind noise is dependant on what jacket I wear, my leather is fairly quite and my textile quite noisy. I think the shoulder pads on the textile pushes the air up under the lid so when I have that on and I am shifting ear pads are a must nowadays.
Interesting that, only ever had the same Dianese textile jacket
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Contact Shoei about their fitting service maybe? Although the shell is still too old tbh. But see what they say...?
And note, not all Shoei lids are NOT the same. Some have different padding designs. Some have removable linings which effects the shape of the cheek pads.
...and I notice, some have emergency release cheek pads now.
http://youtu.be/MqrMnOBZ7w4
Boring video but stick with it.
To me the eqrs type system is a loooong time coming for piece of safety Equipment. There's no reason why they can't bring in an adjustment or a click mechanism under the ears to keep noise out, yet be able to release it for removal to save your ear lugs as well as removal in emergency situations.
I'd expect design to of moved in considerably more than it has tbh, even as good as Shoei and Arai are. But stupidly, vents, shell shape and paint designs sell more helmets ::)
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I really don't subscribe to the " one helmet maker is quiter than anothe" theory. If the alleged quietest helmet in the world doesn't fit your individual head shape then it will be very very loud indeed.
I think its a case of what's best for "me" must be best for everyone else. Which is not always the case.
So IMO, by the sound of it, Shoei may not be the correct helmet shape for you anyway. Unless you bought I size too big...?
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I really don't subscribe to the " one helmet maker is quiter than anothe" theory. If the alleged quietest helmet in the world doesn't fit your individual head shape then it will be very very loud indeed.
I think its a case of what's best for "me" must be best for everyone else. Which is not always the case.
So IMO, by the sound of it, Shoei may not be the correct helmet shape for you anyway. Unless you bought I size too big...?
Might have done, bought this one before i started my lessons and took my DAS course. :o
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I'd expect design to of moved in considerably more than it has tbh, even as good as Shoei and Arai are. But stupidly, vents, shell shape and paint designs sell more helmets ::)
Spot on :y
No RD400's (in fact no strokers at all now) myself but a mate of mine had one of every model until just recently. He has slimmed down his collection now but still has about five I think. I still like the looks of the "E" but they are to small for me to ride now.
There were a couple of GS's down the meet tonight and yes they are the A380 of the bike world! I rode a GS some time back, three indicator buttons, what's that all about? I had to stop to figure out how to turn them off!!!
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I really don't subscribe to the " one helmet maker is quiter than anothe" theory. If the alleged quietest helmet in the world doesn't fit your individual head shape then it will be very very loud indeed.
I think its a case of what's best for "me" must be best for everyone else. Which is not always the case.
So IMO, by the sound of it, Shoei may not be the correct helmet shape for you anyway. Unless you bought I size too big...?
Might have done, bought this one before i started my lessons and took my DAS course. :o
Off to the shops then young man. And don't be swayed by bs like race track technology, vents and paint, or the name on the top. Fit is everything. As long as it has the correct stickers of course. Acu gold sticker was the one in my day. But I see there's Dot stickers as well now.
But re noise, if you can get a finger up between the padding and your neck, in the grove where your jaw meets the neck under the ear lobe then that's bad for noise. It can still fit very well in other areas, but you'll go deaf quicker.
And I'd suggest not buying at the first shop either. Take your time.
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Cheers will do :)
Time to find shops near my commute :)
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Yeah that would have been a good test, are you going to get another as your No claims will probably expire for the bike soon?
I think I retain my NCD for 2yrs. No plans to get another this year. As I said to you a couple of years ago, if I went without a bike for more than a short time, I'd probably never get another. It will be a year in 10 days time...
For just a tiny outlay you could have this little beauty and be back on two wheels: http://www.motorcyclenews.com/mcn/bikes-for-sale/searchresults/detail/nsu/quickly/1965/_/R-NXGN-7619746
Perfect for the elder gentleman...
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Yeah that would have been a good test, are you going to get another as your No claims will probably expire for the bike soon?
I think I retain my NCD for 2yrs. No plans to get another this year. As I said to you a couple of years ago, if I went without a bike for more than a short time, I'd probably never get another. It will be a year in 10 days time...
For just a tiny outlay you could have this little beauty and be back on two wheels: http://www.motorcyclenews.com/mcn/bikes-for-sale/searchresults/detail/nsu/quickly/1965/_/R-NXGN-7619746
Perfect for the elder gentleman...
Lol ;D ;D ;D
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If you don't like the sound of your own engine, you've got the wrong engine. ::)
1) Buy a V8 Cobra
2) Go find a tunnel somewhere
;)
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Tunnie must be going too slow if he's got time to notice wind noise! ::) ;D
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Tunnie must be going too slow if he's got time to notice wind noise! ::) ;D
Your not far off. Tbh. With a decent fitting lid I found there was no need for ear plugs at sensible speeds. Even after a curry. :)
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Tunnie must be going too slow if he's got time to notice wind noise! ::) ;D
Your not far off. Tbh. With a decent fitting lid I found there was no need for ear plugs at sensible speeds. Even after a curry. :)
There you go, we've just sorted Tunnies problem! Smelly socks and more curry! ;D ;D ;D
Oh the power of OOF!! :y :y :y
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Happy to have more curry :D :D :D :D
Experimented again on the cruise in today, putting various parts of my hand around the bottom of the lid where it meets my neck. Could really reduce the sound again, at one time, with hand on side, air was flowing up by chin and into helmet. So if I can stop that with a tigher lid, should be a lot better. :)
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There's various attachments available, you may remember Chris Walker used a guard over his nose when racing. They keep the wind out of your vision area, as I used to struggle with eyes watering from air streams drying out my eyes. Then they water and splatter tears on the visor on the brakes and that gets distracting.
Shoei used to do a rubber face mask as an accessory that fits inside the chin piece and covers the nose. That in conjunction with a chin curtain in winter, and a thin neck tube whatever they're called covering the chin, and you'd be almost impervious to weather/temp./misting visor with added noise protection. I never used a double glazed visor attachment/pin lock system.
Carefull though, if the curtain and nose piece fit too tightly and block off air completely, you can't breath, as I found out once when a non Shoei nose piece collapsed ;D
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;D ;D ;D ;D
Hoping to try smaller Shoei tonight, I'd be the Small not Medium :o
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;D ;D ;D ;D
Hoping to try smaller Shoei tonight, I'd be the Small not Medium :o
How small is your head man?
(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b24/msbillen/ShrunkenHead-1.jpg)
;D
I think I have an XXL helmet and even that's touch & go.. ;D
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Well Shoei I have now is Medium, 56/57cm
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;D ;D ;D ;D
Hoping to try smaller Shoei tonight, I'd be the Small not Medium :o
How small is your head man?
(http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b24/msbillen/ShrunkenHead-1.jpg)
;D
I think I have an XXL helmet and even that's touch & go.. ;D
If you painted flames on your head, maybe you could get away without a lid :P. FFS, don't fall off though, unless you want your "helmet" painted red...
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Yeah that would have been a good test, are you going to get another as your No claims will probably expire for the bike soon?
I think I retain my NCD for 2yrs. No plans to get another this year. As I said to you a couple of years ago, if I went without a bike for more than a short time, I'd probably never get another. It will be a year in 10 days time...
For just a tiny outlay you could have this little beauty and be back on two wheels: http://www.motorcyclenews.com/mcn/bikes-for-sale/searchresults/detail/nsu/quickly/1965/_/R-NXGN-7619746
Perfect for the elder gentleman...
That would be ideal given you can get stabilizers for it :-[
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Yeah that would have been a good test, are you going to get another as your No claims will probably expire for the bike soon?
I think I retain my NCD for 2yrs. No plans to get another this year. As I said to you a couple of years ago, if I went without a bike for more than a short time, I'd probably never get another. It will be a year in 10 days time...
For just a tiny outlay you could have this little beauty and be back on two wheels: http://www.motorcyclenews.com/mcn/bikes-for-sale/searchresults/detail/nsu/quickly/1965/_/R-NXGN-7619746
Perfect for the elder gentleman...
I'd still be faster than tunnie :P
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Sod off ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
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For me to get another bike, I think I'd need to rent garage space, as my bike was in the way.
Now who do I know in Brakkers with space garage space ::)
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Tunnie , get an inline 4 and hear the bang and pop of the overrun :D You wont want ear plugs ever again :P
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For me to get another bike, I think I'd need to rent garage space, as my bike was in the way.
Now who do I know in Brakkers with space garage space ::)
Where there's a will there's a way!!
Even though I like my Omega a lot it just don't compare to the bikes for me.
Nothing beats a "gentle" ( ;)) ride out in the sunshine to bring a smile to your face.
Its especially nice on one of my "old wobblers" when there is a group of us out for a run and some food. :y
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Tunnie , get an inline 4 and hear the bang and pop of the overrun :D You wont want ear plugs ever again :P
Mine pops and bangs lovely :)
For me to get another bike, I think I'd need to rent garage space, as my bike was in the way.
Now who do I know in Brakkers with space garage space ::)
Some plans are afoot that you would like on the garage :)
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Go into your local Specsavers (hearcare) and ask them to make you some ;)
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For me to get another bike, I think I'd need to rent garage space, as my bike was in the way.
Now who do I know in Brakkers with space garage space ::)
Or a bigger gara..... Oh never mind. ;D
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Go into your local Specsavers (hearcare) and ask them to make you some ;)
Not thought of that :y
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Go into your local Specsavers (hearcare) and ask them to make you some ;)
Not thought of that :y
I didn't even know they did that - I'll remember that, too :y (Well I say I will, then the three second memory will kick in..)
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If you painted flames on your head, maybe you could get away without a lid :P. FFS, don't fall off though, unless you want your "helmet" painted red...
This is how I look without a helmet:
(http://media-cache-cd0.pinimg.com/236x/0f/cd/23/0fcd23d8cbd8494e5343a304612ed277.jpg)
;D
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;D
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Go into your local Specsavers (hearcare) and ask them to make you some ;)
Not thought of that :y
I didn't even know they did that - I'll remember that, too :y (Well I say I will, then the three second memory will kick in..)
What do you ask for? :-[
Just plugs? As a mate has them for proper hearing aids, I guess I just want the mould bit, but without tube to go to a processing unit thing.