Nolan N-102
Posted: Fri May 26, 2006 12:38 pm
Well first I should tell you that I'm brand new to motorcycling and this is my first helmet. With that being said, I really like my Nolan helmet. At first I was not looking at purchasing a Modular helmet, but instead wanted a full face. Well after looking at the N-102 at the local shop I figured I'd get a really nice helmet for my first one. Since it is designed to save my life, I might as well enjoy the features.
The latcheting system is very easy to use once you know how. At first I could not figure out how to flip open the helmet. After looking at it for a few seconds I figured you had to pinch the red componenets together and that opens the helmet. I can see how this would be very difficult to open by accident, but I can easily flip it open with one hand.
I like the quick release chin strap. I tried other helmets and found it annoying to have to buckle and strap the chin straps. The N-102 has an adjustable quick release retention system and it works very well for me now that I have it adjusted to my liking. Also it is very easy to adjust.
One of the big things I love about the helmet is what Nolan calls the VPS or Vision Protection System. It is essentially a tinted shield that goes over the regular face shield. It operates independently of the regular shield. It comes in handy all the time as sometimes it is very sunny and I can flip down the VPS when needed and then flip it back up whenI go through a dimmer area. I've never had a problem with it mistakenly flipping down. Also, it is kind of nifty when you are cruising with the VPS down and a bug splatters on the VPS and obscures your vision. You can quickly flip it up and see clearly again. The N-102 comes with some pieces in case you do not want to use the VPS (But why wouldn't you!)
Also the regular faceshield comes with a second layer of fog protection. It is hard to describe, but it essentially installs on the inside of the face shield. It adds a second layer but doesn't seem to optically distort our vision. I also paintball and having a second layer does help in anti-fogging. I've had light fotting right where my nose is but it has not gone further than that. The faceshield and VPS requires no tools to switch out also.
Venting seems to be adequate but I've only ridden in the spring so we'll see when the summer comes along.
The interior padding can be removed for washing.
Well that's the review. Again, I would definitely recommend the Nolan N-102 to anyone who would like a modular helmet. It costs more than a standard full face, but I think it is worth it to be able to flip it up and talk to a riding buddy without screaming at the top of your lungs. It cost me about $290 at a local shop, but you can probably find it cheaper online. I got the basic black option and I've added some reflective pin striping tape to increase visibility.
Easy Riding!
July
The latcheting system is very easy to use once you know how. At first I could not figure out how to flip open the helmet. After looking at it for a few seconds I figured you had to pinch the red componenets together and that opens the helmet. I can see how this would be very difficult to open by accident, but I can easily flip it open with one hand.
I like the quick release chin strap. I tried other helmets and found it annoying to have to buckle and strap the chin straps. The N-102 has an adjustable quick release retention system and it works very well for me now that I have it adjusted to my liking. Also it is very easy to adjust.
One of the big things I love about the helmet is what Nolan calls the VPS or Vision Protection System. It is essentially a tinted shield that goes over the regular face shield. It operates independently of the regular shield. It comes in handy all the time as sometimes it is very sunny and I can flip down the VPS when needed and then flip it back up whenI go through a dimmer area. I've never had a problem with it mistakenly flipping down. Also, it is kind of nifty when you are cruising with the VPS down and a bug splatters on the VPS and obscures your vision. You can quickly flip it up and see clearly again. The N-102 comes with some pieces in case you do not want to use the VPS (But why wouldn't you!)
Also the regular faceshield comes with a second layer of fog protection. It is hard to describe, but it essentially installs on the inside of the face shield. It adds a second layer but doesn't seem to optically distort our vision. I also paintball and having a second layer does help in anti-fogging. I've had light fotting right where my nose is but it has not gone further than that. The faceshield and VPS requires no tools to switch out also.
Venting seems to be adequate but I've only ridden in the spring so we'll see when the summer comes along.
The interior padding can be removed for washing.
Well that's the review. Again, I would definitely recommend the Nolan N-102 to anyone who would like a modular helmet. It costs more than a standard full face, but I think it is worth it to be able to flip it up and talk to a riding buddy without screaming at the top of your lungs. It cost me about $290 at a local shop, but you can probably find it cheaper online. I got the basic black option and I've added some reflective pin striping tape to increase visibility.
Easy Riding!
July