Vemar Helmets: Opinions Please

MissKaos · 03-12-2010, 05:20 PM

I've been eyeballing this helmet for a year now. I'm looking at the Vemar Eclipse line. I'd like to get your opinions on the lid if any of you have had any experience with this maker. I'm gearing up to drop some cash on this thing.

Here's what has my attention about the helmet:

Snell, EC, DOT & BSI certified
Weighs 3.2 lbs
Ventelation system has stellar reviews
(oh and it matches my bike and gear! LOL - hey! its a chick thing!)

Here's what I'm not so hot about:

Replacement shields are 70-80 bucks
No breath guard. Doesn't appear to even have a way to put in an aftermarket.
Sheild has no quick release - you have to take a screw driver to it (this is good and bad...it's a race specific safety feature...or so they say....but the design is for it to not pop off in case of impact)

Read more at: http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com...ow-Helmet.aspx

What sayeth the masses

mxroostin · 03-12-2010, 05:42 PM

Sorry, no experience with their street helmets...I had at one time a dirty helmet from Vemar. It was light but didnt fit right, ended up with purchasing an ARAI, and its been the only helmet I now wear...

Good luck, nice looking lid...

Gem STate ST · 03-12-2010, 05:49 PM

No personal experience either but here is a review that echos Lynns feelings. http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/Mobile...ArticleId=5199 I couldn't find a review on the Eclipse model.Webbike world thought they were heavy.

MissKaos · 03-12-2010, 06:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gem STate ST

No personal experience either but here is a review that echos Lynns feelings. http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/Mobile...ArticleId=5199 I couldn't find a review on the Eclipse model.Webbike world thought they were heavy.

Yeah, I read that one. That's a totally different helmet (different shape even).

The only eclipse review I can find is from the Ducati guys http://www.ducati.ms/forums/showthread.php?t=69475

I started watching this lid when it was $500 now it's on sale for 225'ish (depending on the vendor ordered from).

Currently I'm using an HJC Dragon. It's an Extra Small size, and still a bit large for me. It fits me well on the sides, but at 100+ mph, the helmet slides back on my head and the helmet presses in on my chin and lips. It's incredibly distracting when I'm trying to practice my corners!

Other reviews on vemar in general that I've read say that their helmets don't do this....I'm guessing it's a specific head shape? What the hell do I know? LOL

I'm half tempted to just go for it!

stubby · 03-12-2010, 06:30 PM

Go down to cycle queer and try the various brands. Find the one that fits your head shape the best. Shoei, Arai, I think Scorpion even have the interchangeable pads for the cheek area to make the helmet fit you properly. I wouldn't buy a helmet based off others reviews as to whether it will slide or not - a proper fitting helmet won't do this anyhow.

I haven't heard anything good or bad about these helmets, but there are only a couple I would buy - Shoei X11 (fits better than the RF1000), the new Shoei x12/13 - whatever its called, Arai and the sweet new Bell.

steven32 · 03-12-2010, 07:24 PM

i like my scorpion

CBRF2Old · 03-12-2010, 07:47 PM

Just my

but I won't buy a helmet that I haven't tried on and run around the store making motorcycle noises in.
Everyone's head is different and the different brands have different fits in the same sizes. I haven't had any experience with that brand.
But then again, don't take my word for anything because I learned how to ride wearing a bell helmet that rattled around on my head, progressed to the cheapest helmet I could find (that rattled around on my head), and ended up with an Arai that fits like an OJ glove...well, that is what I thought when I tried it on and my brother said "it should be squeezing your cheeks in". After I wore it for a while, it is uber comfortable.

steven32 · 03-12-2010, 09:05 PM

i would go to cycle gear if they have it. they have a 7 day satisfaction thing. you can buy it, use it, and if you dont like it, you can return it within 7 days for a refund. same with any product there.

MissKaos · 03-12-2010, 09:20 PM

Cycle gear will not get another dime from me. They lost my business last year.

Besides I've already played with all their helmets. No one in town carries the Vemar.

I've decided to give it a shot anyway. I can order (and return if needed) from motorcycle superstore.

knee draggers has it for a less expensive price, but it's no exchange / no return. they are doing away with this 09 model. I'd rather pay extra money and be able to return if it sucks.

I'll let you all know how it is when I get it!

steven32 · 03-12-2010, 09:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MissKaos

Cycle gear will not get another dime from me. They lost my business last year.

how come?

MissKaos · 03-13-2010, 07:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by steven32

how come?

Meh, that's not a story for the masses. There are others on here who have gotten great service from them. I'll not be bad mouthing any business on this forum.

steven32 · 03-13-2010, 09:21 AM

fair enough

lost cause · 03-13-2010, 12:16 PM

crash tested and approved by my buddy colton rode with his all the way to spokane and back he loves that thing.

FastGas · 03-13-2010, 05:03 PM

I have both the VSR carbon and composite (not pictured) and the VSRev

Yes, they have their own shell design. Both of mine are quiet, comfortable, and fit great (XLs for me). I'll probably buy an eclipse carbon when the price comes down at the end of this season. I think $400+ lids are for idiots.

MissKaos · 03-13-2010, 05:31 PM

Thanks fast gas.

on your VSR, can you pop the breath deflector off? I'm trying to find a way to get one into the eclipse. I fog a ton LOL I'm trying to figure out if I can buy a deflector from the VSR and fashion it to the eclipse in some way.

Cider · 03-13-2010, 06:51 PM

I thought I saw some Vemar helmets at Happy Trails once. That was a couple years ago, though.

FastGas · 03-13-2010, 07:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MissKaos

Thanks fast gas.

on your VSR, can you pop the breath deflector off? I'm trying to find a way to get one into the eclipse. I fog a ton LOL I'm trying to figure out if I can buy a deflector from the VSR and fashion it to the eclipse in some way.

Yes, bot the VSR and Rev cam with deflectors. I took all of mine out so you're welcome to one if you want to experiment. I'll be up in the Boise/Nampa area easter weekend if you want one hand-delivered. Vemar's anti-fog coating is very effective so you might not need it after all. .
Kneedraggers has that very eclipse for $180, a bargain IMHO.
http://www.kneedraggers.com/details/...e--651249.html

FastGas · 03-13-2010, 07:24 PM

Replacement shields are 70-80 bucks
No breath guard. Doesn't appear to even have a way to put in an aftermarket.
Sheild has no quick release - you have to take a screw driver to it (this is good and bad...it's a race specific safety feature...or so they say....but the design is for it to not pop off in case of impact)

I buy my shields on ebay.co.uk, I can usually find one for under $40 shipped.
I LOVE the hex-bolt attachment on the VSRev. It actually makes swapping shields a lot easier as there aren't any funky levers or switches which are impossible to see if you're installing a smoked shield.

CBRF2Old · 03-13-2010, 08:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FastGas

I have both the VSR carbon and composite (not pictured) and the VSRev

Yes, they have their own shell design. Both of mine are quiet, comfortable, and fit great (XLs for me). I'll probably buy an eclipse carbon when the price comes down at the end of this season. I think $400+ lids are for idiots.

That VSR Carbon looks slick!

Mikey · 03-13-2010, 08:23 PM

Curiosity got the better of me and through a little research I found a dealer stateside. They are still in California but at least its not Europe or Canada.

U.S.A.
Motonation
1100 North Magnolia Ave., Suite A
El Cajon, CA 92020
United States of America
www.motonation.com
email: jojo@motonation.com
tel: 1 (619) 4014100, fax: 1 (619) 4014108

MissKaos · 03-14-2010, 09:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FastGas

Yes, bot the VSR and Rev cam with deflectors. I took all of mine out so you're welcome to one if you want to experiment. I'll be up in the Boise/Nampa area easter weekend if you want one hand-delivered. Vemar's anti-fog coating is very effective so you might not need it after all. .
Kneedraggers has that very eclipse for $180, a bargain IMHO.
http://www.kneedraggers.com/details/...e--651249.html

That'd be awesome if you would let me experiment with one of yours. Thank you!

The price at knee draggers is a stellar price. But Vemar doesnt' make an extra small in that model - that sale price is no return, no exchange. So I ordered from revzilla for 230 so I can return for just incase purposes.

By the way. Never measure the diameter of your head with a man. Rather, don't with my man. Damn comedy show!

Quote:

Originally Posted by FastGas

Replacement shields are 70-80 bucks
No breath guard. Doesn't appear to even have a way to put in an aftermarket.
Sheild has no quick release - you have to take a screw driver to it (this is good and bad...it's a race specific safety feature...or so they say....but the design is for it to not pop off in case of impact)

I buy my shields on ebay.co.uk, I can usually find one for under $40 shipped.
I LOVE the hex-bolt attachment on the VSRev. It actually makes swapping shields a lot easier as there aren't any funky levers or switches which are impossible to see if you're installing a smoked shield.

OH! good to know.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mikey

Curiosity got the better of me and through a little research I found a dealer stateside. They are still in California but at least its not Europe or Canada.

U.S.A.
Motonation
1100 North Magnolia Ave., Suite A
El Cajon, CA 92020
United States of America
www.motonation.com
email: jojo@motonation.com
tel: 1 (619) 4014100, fax: 1 (619) 4014108

Yup, Motonation took over for Tucker Rocky. Big distributor

FastGas · 03-15-2010, 03:26 PM

I'll be visiting my brother in the Nampa area that weekend, just shoot me a PM with your phone number and I can meet you on the way in or out.

MissKaos · 03-19-2010, 07:16 PM

Well, the lid came today. It was like Christmas all over again!!!

Graphics are stellar, lid is very solid. It's made of a triple compound made up of kevlar, carbon fiber, and some other compound. It's light as hell!!!

Peripheral vision in this bad boy ROCKS! I can actually look over my shoulder in traffic now!!! AND SEE STUFF THAT'S BACK THERE!

Ventalation is crazy! opening a few vents is like cruising around with your shield wide open. It actually froze my bean off!

Quiet until you open vents...then it's a bit breezy and loud. I would expect as much, though

The pads are very impressive...feels like bed mattress.

In perfect Italian form - they run small. I'm normally an extra small, their small is just a hair tight - squishes my cheeks and makes me look like a cabbage patch kid. That should fix up when it breaks in though. If not...well, I'll be a chubby cheeked rider. Whatever

I'm pretty hard to please and have very high expectations. I can definately say that the Vemar at a lower price gives Arai and Shoei a run for their money!

I'm sold fer sure.

(oh...and props to Revzilla! First time doing business with them and their customer service is super!)

FastGas....don't bother with the breath deflector - there is absolutely no place to put it. I appreciate the offer though!!!

03-12-2010, 05:42 PM	#2
mxroostin Senior Member Joined: Jun 2007 From: Meridian Posts: 1,079 I Ride: CBR 1000 RR	Sorry, no experience with their street helmets...I had at one time a dirty helmet from Vemar. It was light but didnt fit right, ended up with purchasing an ARAI, and its been the only helmet I now wear... Good luck, nice looking lid... Last edited by mxroostin; 03-12-2010 at 05:50 PM.

03-13-2010, 07:24 PM	#18
FastGas Member Joined: Sep 2009 From: SLC Posts: 82	Replacement shields are 70-80 bucks No breath guard. Doesn't appear to even have a way to put in an aftermarket. Sheild has no quick release - you have to take a screw driver to it (this is good and bad...it's a race specific safety feature...or so they say....but the design is for it to not pop off in case of impact) I buy my shields on ebay.co.uk, I can usually find one for under $40 shipped. I LOVE the hex-bolt attachment on the VSRev. It actually makes swapping shields a lot easier as there aren't any funky levers or switches which are impossible to see if you're installing a smoked shield.

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03-12-2010, 05:49 PM	#3
Gem STate ST Senior Member Joined: Jun 2008 From: K-Town Posts: 906 I Ride: 2006 ST1300A-02'Falco	No personal experience either but here is a review that echos Lynns feelings. http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/Mobile...ArticleId=5199 I couldn't find a review on the Eclipse model.Webbike world thought they were heavy.

03-12-2010, 06:30 PM	#5
stubby Senior Member Joined: Mar 2008 From: A boring place without any tracks Posts: 4,860 I Ride: 08 GSXR1000 street 08 GSXR600 race bike 99 TZ125 Smoker 07 KTM 250xcw dirt xr50 pit bike 49cc Pocket bike	Go down to cycle queer and try the various brands. Find the one that fits your head shape the best. Shoei, Arai, I think Scorpion even have the interchangeable pads for the cheek area to make the helmet fit you properly. I wouldn't buy a helmet based off others reviews as to whether it will slide or not - a proper fitting helmet won't do this anyhow. I haven't heard anything good or bad about these helmets, but there are only a couple I would buy - Shoei X11 (fits better than the RF1000), the new Shoei x12/13 - whatever its called, Arai and the sweet new Bell.

03-12-2010, 07:24 PM	#6
steven32 Joined: Feb 2010 From: K-Town Posts: 2,973 I Ride: '07 GSXR 600	i like my scorpion

03-12-2010, 07:47 PM	#7
CBRF2Old Joined: Aug 2006 From: Boise Posts: 4,859 I Ride: 83 and 84 Honda Ascot's and 91 CBR600F2	Just my but I won't buy a helmet that I haven't tried on and run around the store making motorcycle noises in. Everyone's head is different and the different brands have different fits in the same sizes. I haven't had any experience with that brand. But then again, don't take my word for anything because I learned how to ride wearing a bell helmet that rattled around on my head, progressed to the cheapest helmet I could find (that rattled around on my head), and ended up with an Arai that fits like an OJ glove...well, that is what I thought when I tried it on and my brother said "it should be squeezing your cheeks in". After I wore it for a while, it is uber comfortable.

03-12-2010, 09:05 PM	#8
steven32 Joined: Feb 2010 From: K-Town Posts: 2,973 I Ride: '07 GSXR 600	i would go to cycle gear if they have it. they have a 7 day satisfaction thing. you can buy it, use it, and if you dont like it, you can return it within 7 days for a refund. same with any product there.

03-12-2010, 09:20 PM	#9
MissKaos Joined: Sep 2008 From: Boise Posts: 1,944 I Ride: Two-Wheeled Orgaaaaaaaasm	Cycle gear will not get another dime from me. They lost my business last year. Besides I've already played with all their helmets. No one in town carries the Vemar. I've decided to give it a shot anyway. I can order (and return if needed) from motorcycle superstore. knee draggers has it for a less expensive price, but it's no exchange / no return. they are doing away with this 09 model. I'd rather pay extra money and be able to return if it sucks. I'll let you all know how it is when I get it!

03-13-2010, 09:21 AM	#12
steven32 Joined: Feb 2010 From: K-Town Posts: 2,973 I Ride: '07 GSXR 600	fair enough

03-13-2010, 12:16 PM	#13
lost cause Senior Member Joined: Jul 2009 From: boise Posts: 745 I Ride: low and slow	crash tested and approved by my buddy colton rode with his all the way to spokane and back he loves that thing.

03-13-2010, 05:03 PM	#14
FastGas Member Joined: Sep 2009 From: SLC Posts: 82	I have both the VSR carbon and composite (not pictured) and the VSRev Yes, they have their own shell design. Both of mine are quiet, comfortable, and fit great (XLs for me). I'll probably buy an eclipse carbon when the price comes down at the end of this season. I think $400+ lids are for idiots.

03-13-2010, 05:31 PM	#15
MissKaos Joined: Sep 2008 From: Boise Posts: 1,944 I Ride: Two-Wheeled Orgaaaaaaaasm	Thanks fast gas. on your VSR, can you pop the breath deflector off? I'm trying to find a way to get one into the eclipse. I fog a ton LOL I'm trying to figure out if I can buy a deflector from the VSR and fashion it to the eclipse in some way.

03-13-2010, 06:51 PM	#16
Cider Senior Member Joined: May 2006 Posts: 2,349	I thought I saw some Vemar helmets at Happy Trails once. That was a couple years ago, though.

03-13-2010, 08:23 PM	#20
Mikey Senior Member Joined: Mar 2009 From: Kuna Posts: 2,246 I Ride: on sidewalks if needed.	Curiosity got the better of me and through a little research I found a dealer stateside. They are still in California but at least its not Europe or Canada. U.S.A. Motonation 1100 North Magnolia Ave., Suite A El Cajon, CA 92020 United States of America www.motonation.com email: jojo@motonation.com tel: 1 (619) 4014100, fax: 1 (619) 4014108

03-15-2010, 03:26 PM	#22
FastGas Member Joined: Sep 2009 From: SLC Posts: 82	I'll be visiting my brother in the Nampa area that weekend, just shoot me a PM with your phone number and I can meet you on the way in or out.

03-19-2010, 07:16 PM	#23
MissKaos Joined: Sep 2008 From: Boise Posts: 1,944 I Ride: Two-Wheeled Orgaaaaaaaasm	Well, the lid came today. It was like Christmas all over again!!! Graphics are stellar, lid is very solid. It's made of a triple compound made up of kevlar, carbon fiber, and some other compound. It's light as hell!!! Peripheral vision in this bad boy ROCKS! I can actually look over my shoulder in traffic now!!! AND SEE STUFF THAT'S BACK THERE! Ventalation is crazy! opening a few vents is like cruising around with your shield wide open. It actually froze my bean off! Quiet until you open vents...then it's a bit breezy and loud. I would expect as much, though The pads are very impressive...feels like bed mattress. In perfect Italian form - they run small. I'm normally an extra small, their small is just a hair tight - squishes my cheeks and makes me look like a cabbage patch kid. That should fix up when it breaks in though. If not...well, I'll be a chubby cheeked rider. Whatever I'm pretty hard to please and have very high expectations. I can definately say that the Vemar at a lower price gives Arai and Shoei a run for their money! I'm sold fer sure. (oh...and props to Revzilla! First time doing business with them and their customer service is super!) FastGas....don't bother with the breath deflector - there is absolutely no place to put it. I appreciate the offer though!!!