Sharper lines, the same no-nonsense approach
The i72 is a full-face motorcycle helmet from HJC for riders who clock up the miles every day or every weekend and have no need for frills. It is also the successor to the HJC i71. In this new version, HJC has given the motorcycle helmet shell sharper, more streamlined lines, making the motorcycle helmet look sportier than you would expect from a touring model.
Beneath that new shape, you will find everything you use day to day: an integrated sun visor, a Pinlock lens (included in the box) and a clear visor that locks securely.
Made for the commute and the long ride
The i72 is aimed at touring riders and commuters looking for a single full-face motorcycle helmet for the whole year. You can ride to work in it every day, take it on a long weekend ride or set off on a trip with it. Thanks to the sun visor, you can ride into a low sun without having to change visors, and the Pinlock keeps your vision clear when it turns cold and wet.
Polycarbonate, three shell sizes, 1550 grams
HJC builds the shell of the i72 from a polycarbonate compound, which the brand calls APC. Polycarbonate is strong and impact-resistant, but weighs slightly more than composite or carbon. HJC uses three shell sizes across the full size range. This keeps the outer shell in proportion to your head circumference, so the motorcycle helmet does not look too large, even in the smaller sizes. The i72 weighs 1550 grams.
Fastening
The i72 closes with a Microlock. You click the buckle into place and adjust the length using a toothed strap. It is quick and easy, even with motorcycle gloves on.
Visor
The HJ-52 visor achieves optical class 1, the highest class for distortion-free vision. The visor has a scratch-resistant coating and, according to HJC, blocks 99 per cent of UV light. A Pinlock 70 MaxVision comes as standard in the box, so you have an anti-fog visor straight away. HJC has also redesigned the visor locking mechanism, which works noticeably better than before.
You lower the integrated HJ-V12 sun visor with a slider. It is distortion-free. A tinted visor remains available as an option.
Ventilation: ACS
HJC's ACS ventilation system has five air intakes. There is a double vent at the chin and a central top vent on the crown. You open and close both with well-functioning sliders, which are also easy to find with motorcycle gloves on. At the rear, two side-by-side outlet vents expel the warm air. On hot days, you open everything up; in the cold, you close the air inlets to keep the warmth in.
Washable lining
The lining is made of an antibacterial, Oeko-Tex-certified fabric that wicks away moisture and dries quickly. You can remove the crown lining and cheek pads to wash them. Cheek pads in a different thickness are available separately, allowing you to fine-tune the fit. Cut-outs for spectacle arms make the i72 suitable for glasses wearers. The box also includes a nose guard, a chin curtain and a protective helmet bag.
Intercom
The i72 is not prepared for a helmet-specific HJC communication system. You can, however, fit a universal intercom.
Certification
The i72 is approved to the European standard ECE 22.06.
Our RAD specialist's opinion
Expectations for a successor are evidently high, so HJC kept what worked and refined what could be improved. Perhaps quite literally on the outside, as the new helmet shell looks considerably sportier. The result is a contemporary design.
The redesigned visor locking mechanism, meanwhile, resolves a minor irritation of the previous model. Either way, the lock works a great deal better.
With an integrated sun visor on board, a Pinlock in the box and a well-rounded finish that is spot on, the value for money here is simply right. Anyone looking for a full-face motorcycle helmet that does its job every day without any fuss can choose this one with their eyes practically closed.
Reflective stickers and maintenance
In some countries (such as France), it is mandatory to fit reflective stickers to your motorcycle helmet. The HJC i72 is supplied without these reflective stickers. You can find reflective sticker sets here.
Maintenance tips:
- Does the thought of removing your helmet's lining to wash it put you off? You can also clean the lining without removing it, using S100 Helmet Interior Cleaner.
- The outside of your helmet and the visor are best cleaned with S100 Helmet and Visor Cleaner.
Safety first!
Never ride with a scratched or dull visor. Especially at night, scratches cause blinding reflections from street lighting and the headlights of oncoming traffic. In wet weather, this effect is even more pronounced. It is best to replace a worn visor as soon as possible. Planning a long trip? Then be sure to bring a spare visor. Never ride in the dark with a tinted visor.
