With Christmas less than 2 months away, it’s time to start your holiday shopping, or your own holiday wish list.

I compiled a list of items below that sell at Rockhead Bikes at various pricepoints. Find some ideas for the friends, significant others, parents, and even possibly yourself in these great gift ideas.

Under $20
River Road Vegas Glove: $11.35
Cortech DX Ladies Glove: $19.94
Kryptonite Kryptofelx Cable with Lock: $12.43
River Road Magnetic Map Pouch: $19.15

$20 - $50
Cortech HDX Men’s and Women’s Gloves: $39.89
Scott 83X Goggles: $23.70
Smith Fuel Women’s Goggles, Hot Pink: $37.44
DOWCO Guardian Ultralight Bike Covers: $35.10

$50 - $100
First Gear Rainman Men’s Jacket: $71.20

As we fall into a new season, the subject of safety is on my mind. In the Northern states, we can expect fog, rain, sleet, snow, ice and many other hazardous conditions in the next few months. Rough weather or not, we should all prepare for the possibility of accidents.

Knowing how and why accidents occur is the most important thing. I found an article on motorvike.com that discusses the most common accidents and how to avoid them. It seems that most accidents happen close to home, at intersections, and a majority are due to the other driver being alcohol impaired.

While we can take steps to prevent accidents, one should note that rarely can we avoid accidents, especially if we are not at fault. Though the article mentioned paying attention and wearing proper gear, being informed is just as helpful in avoiding accidents. Some riders will even practice “sliding” so they are prepared. All riders should be aware that an accident CAN happen and there’s nothing that can be done to stop it. Being informed and prepared are key to avoiding (or at least preparing) for an accident.

Is there anything you do, or any extra caution you take, to avoid or prepare for the possibility of being in an accident?

-Julie

There are tons of websites around giving information on buying new and used bikes, and just about as many sites that are selling bikes. To try to break though some of the worthless sites, I compiled a list of some of my favorite sites where you can find used bikes, get information, and even buying advice.

webbikeworld.com
This is one of my favorite sites for finding reviews and information. Unfortunately, this site still has a limited amount of bike reviews, but they are adding. The site does have extensive reviews of many other things though including clothing, accessories, and parts, and most articles are written from first hand experience.

cycletrader.com
This is an excellent site for finding new and used bikes for both men and women. They have a huge database of bikes for sale, so you’re almost guaranteed to find what you’re looking for. In addition, this site includes news, research, reviews, and information on warranties, financing and insurance needs.

motorcyclescan.com
This site also has a large selection of used motorcycles for sale, though they don’t offer much in terms of information and reviews. It should definitely be a site to check out if you are price shopping for a new bike.

cyclepedia.com
I love how this site goes over motorcycle terminology and parts. There is tons of cool information, videos, guides, and manuals. The downfall…the site really only concentrates on Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, and Yamaha.

Any sites you like that we should add to our list? Let us know!

-Julie

While I myself have never ‘crash tested’ a Shoei, many people who were wearing one during an accident report that they have never felt so safe. What makes the Shoei RF-1000 one of the safest helmets on the road?

The AIM+ (Advanced Integrated Matrix Plus Multi-fiber Technology) shell is made from materials that increase helmet safety, and make the RF-1000 very rigid, yet elastic. When in an accident, the helmet will absorb and disperse the impact energy, keeping your head protected.

In addition, the RF-1000 is Snell approved. Snell testing includes passing a series of stringent standards. Helmets with this rating are actually tested in 7 different areas including impact, penetration, and flame resistance. Snell testing is voluntary, and the manufacturers pay for the helmet to be tested. Purchasing a helmet that is Snell tested means you can rest assured that your headgear is going to protect you through just about everything.

The RF-1000 is also ECE 22.05 approved. While the process is not quite as involved as a Snell test, ECE helmets are approved for competitive motorcycle events and are the preferred certification by most professionals.

Bottom line, Shoei is a safe bet for your head. If you’ve had a ‘crash test’ experience, let us know!

- Julie

Though Shoei does not create visors with anti-fog coatings, there are many solutions available that will reduce fogging. One of the most popular is the PINLOCK shield.

This shield is made of moisture absorbing plastic. The silicon seal creates an airtight double lens, which reduces fog build up. The shield is EE 22.05 approved and has been recommended by the Snell Foundation. Though there is some minor construction required to install the PINLOCK system to your current visor, it is relatively easy, and worth the trouble.

PINLOCK comes in a variety of colors. Yellow is best for high contrast vision in mist and rain. Orange works for high contrast vision and blocking sun. Clear is best for most all weather types. The light and dark tint shields are for sunny conditions. Many riders keep more than one color on hand for quick change in varying weather conditions.

Those who have used the PINLOCK system report that fogging is no longer a problem, and the device is rather inexpensive. If you’re tired of using anti-fog rubs and sprays with no success, it might be time to give the PINLOCK system a try!

If you have used this system, let us know what you think!

-Julie

As we’ve discussed the helmet design, I’d like to take a few minutes to go over the venting and visor system on the Shoei RF-1000

Clearly the work that Shoei did in the wind tunnel helped tremendously. Venting on the RF-1000 is some of the best around. The chin vent pulls in a lot more air than most helmets and helps out with de-fogging. The brow vents are a good example of the “keep it simple” mentality. Though they are nothing too fancy, they pull in some good air and allow for the rider to keep cool on warm days. The rear vents open and close simultaneously, though it seems best to keep them open.

Shoei uses the CX-V1 visor on the RF-1000, which is built to block 100% of UV Rays. The smooth, clear, design of the CX-V1 with the helmet help to reduce wind noise. The helmet boasts a 3-position lever that locks the visor in place, even at high speeds. Finally, the Quick Release Base Plate System allows for quick change of visors.

It's no doubt that the incredible amount of research really paid off for Shoei.

-Julie

The Shoei RF-1000 boasts an AIM+ (Advanced Integrated Matrix Plus Multi-fiber Technology) shell. This shell weaves strong organic fibers into the fiberglass, leaving the helmet lightweight and strong.

Shoei has spent a lot of time in creating the RF-1000. By testing the helmet in a wind tunnel, Shoei has provided good airflow and a reduction in wind noise. Through this process, Shoei claims to have a 24% reduction in drag and a 17.8% reduction in lift with the RF-1000. The result is a very smooth and aerodynamic helmet. In addition, the RF-1000 is a very quiet helmet, a result of not only great design, but also good venting. The outside of the helmet, including paint and graphics are high quality.

With many hours spent in research and design, it is clear that Shoei has delivered once again and has managed to design a lightweight, yet protective and comfortable helmet.

-Julie

Many will argue that the Shoei RF 1000 is one of the best helmets on the market. Here’s a look at how this helmet came to be…

The Shoei RF 200 was an improvement over the 100 series. While it had some great features, looking back we can say it was a little heavy and riders felt a lot of wind resistance.

The RF 700 saw some major improvements. This was the first helmet made with Shoei’s Quick Release Base Plate Shield System. In addition, the 700 offered a better fit and ventilation, and was much more comfortable than the 200 series.

Next came the RF 800, with less notable improvements, but it was definitely quieter than the 700 and featured more padding around the face area.

The RF 900 deserves some praise. This helmet featured an aerodynamic air stabilizer which meant less buffeting for riders. A t-zone ventilation system and larger vents meant better air flow in the helmet, keeping riders cooler on hot days. A redesigned liner also made for a more comfortable helmet.

Finally, came the RF 1000 with a more aerodynamic shape and better ventilation. One of the biggest selling points for this helmet was the advertised reduction in drag and lift. A 3-D helmet liner also made the RF 1000 one of the most comfortable helmets on the market.

With all of these improvements, I can only wonder what Shoei will come up with next. Maybe the Shoei RF 1100?

-Julie

Technical Specs + Features:

One of the most technologically advanced helmets for street riders and clearly one of the best-looking helmets on the market.

Shoei’s innovation and cutting-edge design makes the RF-1000 a premium sports helmet.

Aerodynamically superior, the Shoei RF-1000 full-face sport helmet delivers wind tunnel proven high speed performance and ventilation. A perfect fit is achieved through removable and adjustable cheek pads and 3D comfort liner system which doesn’t shift during high speed riding.

My first proper street riding helmet was a lender RF700 in the ole Smokin' Joe the-friendly-toking-camel-that-children-love paint scheme to match the replica bike I was learning the street on (yeah I know, perfect learner's bike to bin and rash). This was a great helmet with good fit that was quiet as can be, but in the traditional bowling ball shape of old compared with today's wind cutting and channeling hyper-aerodynamic brain buckets. It was however a Shoei, with excellent quality and a fit and finish only bettered in appearance by Arai.

Well, After riding with a borrowed bell helmet ( WalMart edition) I decided to sack up and buy the Shoei RF-1000. I really only wanted to spend $100-$150 after buying a Jacket and gloves last week untill I looked at and picked all the brands. The Shoei was more than I wanted to spend but it's worths the extra cone. It was so much lighter than most and fit well without making my face look like a 90 years old man.

Shoei RF-1000 Street Helmet (2008)
Product Review and Evaluation Wanted

Aerodynamic Shell Design
. Aerodynamic properties are maximized through extensive wind tunnel and rider testing
. The Aero Stabilizer dramatically reduces drag and lift coefficients, thus diminishing rider fatigue and
increasing performance

Two-Layer EPS Liner System
. Two-layer liner offers unmatched ventilation with internal channels and exhaust ports throughout the
helmet

Ive been riding motorcycles for over 23 years and have owned many brands of helmets, including Shoei, Arai, HJC, Nolan, KBC, Bell and Icon. Of these, Shoei is the best. The Shoeis last longer without any problems, are not as noisy as other helmets, better ventilated and can take a beating. The other helmets tend to incur small problems after a year or two, but the Shoeis have lasted at least five years and is still in great shape. I just bought the Shoei RF-1000 and instantly noticed that it is lighter than my previous helmets.

Well, it finally happened. The time had come, after 4 years and 40k miles, my old faithful Shoei RF800 was due for replacement.

After trying on a multitude of helmets, from KBC's to Arai's, I settled back on the Shoei's for one main reason: Quick release face shields. Damned if Shoei just doesn't offer the BEST release mechanism in the industry.

I tried on the X11 and the RF900. Whereas the X11 didn't fit right, the RF fit beautifully. And then, it hit.