The HJC RPHA-90S is a successor to an improvement. About its predecessor, the HJC RPHA-90 (without S), we already wrote that it was 'just about the best thing HJC has to offer when it comes to flip-up helmets'.
That could really only be surpassed by a dual P/J homologation, and so this HJC RPHA-90S got that dual homologation. Oh yes, and the ability to fit the Smart HJC intercom. You’re welcome.
The HJC RPHA-90S was developed for experienced touring riders who prefer to hit the road with a light flip-up or jet helmet, and apart from the dual homologation, it offers all the functionality you would expect from a top performer in its segment.
Three different helmet shells are available to accommodate different helmet sizes. This means that you always have a light and compact motorcycle helmet and indeed, 1550 grams is not much. The helmet shell of the HJC RPHA-90S is made using the P.I.M. method. Premium Integrated Matrix results in a strong motorcycle helmet that includes fiberglass and carbon. More comfort and more shock absorption are the starting points, next to a lighter weight.
The chin guard can be opened by means of the central - red - push button at the front. This button is wide enough to be operated with motorcycle gloves. Once undone, the aim is to bring the chin up all the way, where it is relatively well secured. A quick movement downwards will allow you to close the helmet completely. For your information: leaving the chin up halfway between open and closed is not an option.
You can expect good and healthy air circulation with a motorbike helmet of this caliber when you leave the visor and chin guard closed. The easy to open and close chin ventilation and just as easy to operate top ventilation provide sufficient airflow, while the wind can leave through the back.
A clear visor - standard treated against fog and with UV filter - supplies a lot of visibility and can be closed in the front. It requires a simple push of a button to open everything up. RapidFire™ 3 Shield Replacement System is the name HJC gives to the possibility of quickly replacing the visor without tools. A built-in, scratch-resistant sun visor extends almost to the top of the chin guard and can easily be operated with a slider at the bottom left.
Everything is foreseen to mount an anti-fog lens (Pinlock®) and, as it should be in this category of motorcycle helmets, you get it standard.
More than usual attention was paid to the interior. ‘Multicool' is the term that stands for an anti-bacterial material with quick-drying properties, which ensures a lot of comfort. Of course, cheek pads and other elements are easily removable and washable. The design will appeal to spectacle wearers and during the development of the interior, a lot of resources were spent on ergonomics and noise reduction. The result is a good all-round touring helmet that you can wear for a long time without any problems. As a jet helmet or as a full-face helmet.
The motorcycle helmet has a length-adjustable, soft chin strap with a 'Full Metal Micro Buckle System', which means a micrometric buckle in stainless steel for extra strength. A well-designed neck rim reduces the risk of whiplash and the chin wind curtain makes everything fit nicely.
For maintenance of this helmet we recommend S100 helmet and visor cleaner for the outside. For cleaning the interior, without removing it, you can use S100 helmet interior cleaner. New visors have received a water-repellent treatment. This treatment is less effective after some time. Restore the water-repellent effect with Rain-X anti-rain spray.
In some countries (e.g., France), it is mandatory to provide your helmet with reflective stickers. The RPHA-90S is delivered without these reflective decals. Reflective sticker sets can be found here.
Safety first! Never ride with a scratched or dull visor. Especially at night, scratches or dull visors cause blinding reflections from street lights and headlights of oncoming vehicles. This effect is even more pronounced in rainy weather. It is best to replace a scratched or dull visor as soon as possible. Planning a longer trip? Then don't forget to take a replacement visor with you. Never ride in the dark with a tinted visor.