Korean-based HJC has been in the head protection game since 1971 and has consistently been ranked as one of the world’s top producers of motorcycle helmets. Renowned for offering a wide variety of quality options at approachable prices, HJC is solidifying its presence in the adventure riding world by introducing two new versatile helmets: the premium RPHA 60 dual sport lid, designed for riders who lean toward off-road adventures, and the more affordable i80, a modular design aimed at adventure touring riders.

RPHA 60 Dual Sport Helmet

The RPHA 60 is making its debut, just as HJC’s original dual-sport design, the DS-X1, looks like it’s being phased out. The new RPHA offers an aggressive look and features HJC’s Premium Integrated Matrix EVO (PIM EVO) shell construction, which combines high-strength resin with specially woven fiber fabric to create a robust, yet lightweight helmet that meets or exceeds standard DOT and stringent European ECE requirements.

HJC’s new “premium dual sport helmet” features a distinctive peak that’s removable without tools, and its shape and cutouts were refined using wind tunnel technology to provide enhanced stability at high speeds. The helmet also comes with a clear, anti-fog visor that allows for tool-less removal, simplifying the process of cleaning or swapping it with one of HJC’s wide variety of optional visors.

One of several distinctive features on this new dual sport helmet is in the way its inner sun visor works. While we often see this feature in new helmet designs, the HJC’s Dynamic Multi-Step sun visor is unusual in that it can be positioned up to 10 mm (.39 inches) closer to your face, providing optimal shading in situations where light reflects upward or sneaks in around the edges, as it tends to during early morning or late afternoon rides.

The fully-removable and washable interior of the RPHA 60 is made using moisture-wicking antibacterial fabric, and interchangeable cheek pads are available for a customized fit. The cheek pads can also be ejected by pulling red emergency tabs on either side of the helmet’s undercarriage in an event the helmet needs to be safely removed by first responders, while titanium double-D rings are used to secure the chin strap.

The Advanced Channeling Ventilation System (ACS) in this new HJC model features three adjustable intake vents — one on the chin and two on top of the shell, complemented by four exhaust vents strategically positioned on the back of the shell to optimize airflow.

The RPHA 60 helmet comes pre-wired to accept the company’s app-controlled 2nd generation 50B “SMART HJC” premium bluetooth communication system, co-developed by Sena, which is sold separately for a suggested $349.99. The helmet will also accept the previous generation 21B SMART HJC unit, which retails for $219.99, with the main difference being the newer device supports Bluetooth or MESH Intercom for up to 6 riders, and voice command features, while the 21B provides standard Bluetooth connectivity and a simpler control setup. 

This new adventure-friendly helmet from HJC comes in sizes XS to 2XL in seven solid color choices, including a cool Semi Flat Sand Beige, all of which carry an MSRP of $499.99. If you want to stand out, there are four flashy “Dakar” styles that go for a suggested $579.99. HJC offers a five-year warranty on the RPHA 60 that covers for manufacturer defects. 

i80 Modular Adventure Touring Model

This more-affordable modular Adventure Helmet from HJC, the i80 is all about flexibility. Its shell is made from a blend of high-grade polycarbonate and ABS thermoplastic, for a resulting compound that is impact-resistant, yet lightweight. The helmet carries DOT certification based on its penetration resistance, impact absorption, and double-D equipped chin strap integrity.

Part of the i80’s flexibility involves a removable adventure-style peak, something you don’t commonly see on flip-face helmets. The peak, which when in place accommodates the chin bar and visor unit in its lifted position, was wind tunnel-tested to enhance functionality, stability and reduced drag.

The clear HJ-44 visor, designed to block 99 percent of UV-A and UV-B rays, is Pinlock-ready and the kit includes one Pinlock lens. It features an integrated toggle-activated sun shield that is coated for fog and scratch resistance. Additionally, the adjustable drop-down sun lens can be positioned up to 8 mm (0.31 inches) closer to the face for enhanced protection and comfort.

When the helmet is closed, ventilation is achieved via dual two-stage toggle-operated top vents with heated air ushered out the back of the helmet through a wide full-time exhaust vent.

The interior of the i80 is made from moisture-wicking, quick-dry materials, and the crown and cheek pads are removable and washable. A washable mesh chin vent filter is also included. For those who wear prescription glasses, the i80 accommodates eyewear comfortably, thanks to its pre-cut channels specifically designed for glasses.

The i80 Adventure Touring helmet is available in sizes XS to 2XL and comes with a 3-year warranty from the date of purchase or 5 years from the date of manufacture. Solid Black, Matte Black, White, and Semi-Flat Beige Sand and Blue have an MSRP of $259.99, while the graphic-heavy Velly and Roki models start at $299.99.

Author: Jamie Elvidge

Jamie has been a motorcycle journalist for more than 30 years, testing the entire range of bikes for the major print magazines and specializing in adventure-travel related stories. To date she’s written and supplied photography for articles describing what it’s like to ride in all 50 states and 43 foreign countries, receiving two Lowell Thomas Society of American Travel Writer’s Awards along the way. Her most-challenging adventure yet has been riding in the 2018 GS Trophy in Mongolia as Team AusAmerica’s embedded journalist.