In the current beleaguered economy it is encouraging to find quality products that don’t make your wallet cry out for a transfusion. If you have just got into motorcycling or perhaps need a helmet for the missus, the HJC CS – 15 makes a compelling argument. HJC have, over the years, become synonymous with excellent value for money helmets. The old adage, “what you pay is what you get”, suggests that if you don’t pay an arm and a leg you are going to get a sub standard product. When it comes to helmets you also become concerned that you are compromising on the level of protection. HJC have consistently performed well in all safety tests and have a solid reputation for the levels of protection that they offer.
The model which is the subject of this review is the CS – 15. Let’s start with looks. A lot of motorcycling is about ego, like it or not. We like to ride bikes and wear kit that looks the part. In this regard the CS – 15 really ticks the box. It is a decidedly handsome lid.
Very much a sports touring type design, it has a thoroughly modern look with lovely colours and graphics. The helmet has a polycarbonate shell which comes in two sizes. This covers sizes from XS to XXL. You are most likely to find the perfect fit for your pip. The lining is made from a type of brushed nylon which HJC call Nylax. It is removable and washable. The fit and finish of the lining is beyond reproach. The lining has grooves for spectacles which prevent your glasses pressing into your head. The lining fits snugly with no pressure points and has adequate clearance around the ears. Anyone who has worn a helmet for extended periods will know how a minor pressure point, over time, will become like the proverbial pea in the princesses bed. No problem with the CS – 15.
Ventilation is a vital aspect for South African riders with our warm climate. The HJC sports what they term an “Advanced channelling ventilation system”, or ACS. This takes the form of a chin vent in front of the mouth,
and two crown vents,
with exhaust ports at the rear of the helmet.
All vents are opened or closed with sliding covers. All vent covers operate smoothly and slickly even with gloved hands.
The visor is on a ratchet system which allow incremental opening. This allows small openings for eliminating fog in the helmet. A breath guard comes as standard as does a chin curtain. Really quite remarkable for an entry level helmet. The visor is pinlock compatible.
The visor is easily removed by activating spring loaded clips on either side. This makes visor maintenance a doddle. Optics are excellent with no distortion or starring of headlights at night. The seal is good and the visor can be locked down by depressing a lock button on the left hand side.
A ratchet system is used for the chin strap. A double D system may be more fool proof but the ratchet system beats it hands down for convenience.
On the road I found the HJC stable and snug. The cheek pads are adequately snug to prevent any lift at speed and the helmet stays in place when you move your head around. At 1450 grams it is reasonably light for a sports touring helmet. All in all I think that at around the R1700 mark the CS – 15 offers excellent value. It has a quality look and feel to it, and the graphics are tasteful and really handsome. It has all the features of some way more pricey helmets at a fraction of the price. I have owned HJC’s in the past and have found that they age well. Testimony to decent build quality. I give the HJC CS – 15 a resounding thumbs up!.
For more information visit: www.hjchelmets.eu
