FXRG Helmet
Harley-Davidson
Motorcycle helmets are a controversial topic, with states imposing, rescinding, then reimposing helmet use laws and all parties concerned fervently voicing their opinions on the matter. Even after lawmakers come to their senses and finally leave the choice of helmet use up to individual riders, the debate will carry on. Should a rider choose to wear a helmet? If so, should he or she wear it for every ride, or only when the weather dictates? Are there true benefits to wearing a helmet? Or real disadvantages; even dangers? And if I wear one, what type should it be? Full-face? Half-face? 3/4-face? Modular? Beanie? Don’t worry, we’ll always have something to argue about. I wear a helmet every time I ride—one, because it’s the law in California (for now) and two, because I like my head—and the helmet I choose to wear is the Harley-Davidson FXRG.
When making my decision, I took into consideration some of the arguments I’ve heard against helmet use; namely that they can restrict vision and some can actually do more harm than good in an accident. With this in mind, I knew I wanted a helmet from an established manufacturer that knows how to design a safe and effective helmet. I found that Harley-Davidson’s FXRG helmet is manufactured by HJC Helmets, a leader in the industry worldwide and a popular choice for racers, who naturally require lightweight protective headgear and maximum visibility. The FXRG helmet was designed exclusively for Harley-Davidson, but it betrays its racing roots in its sporty appearance.
This helmet delivers lightweight protection via carbon/Kevlar construction. At three pounds, it’s the lightest full-face helmet Harley-Davidson offers. Their half helmets are up to a pound lighter, but I prefer a full face for very technical reasons—it keeps my skin from going all wrinkly due to wind and sun exposure, and keeps the bugs out of my teeth.
FXRG is the nomenclature for Harley’s collection of functional riding gear for “head-to-toe protection in all riding conditions.” For the helmet, that means aerodynamic styling, seven adjustable vents for customized airflow control, and an antifog, scratch-resistant face shield with a two-stage system that allows the face shield to open slightly for maximum airflow. The moisture-wicking CoolMax liner and cheek pads are removable and washable.
The true test of a helmet’s effectiveness, however, is if you like it enough to wear it. I’ve found the FXRG to be comfortable and unrestrictive, with plenty of airflow, and most importantly, a wide range of visibility. I feel secure knowing that it was designed by experts in the field of helmet technology and I wear it every time.
