The promotional photos of the HJC C80 were not taken on an Africa Twin by accident. This flip-up helmet with allure and a lot of adventure feels at home in a number of markets and does not allow itself to be limited. Or to be defined by them.
The HJC C80 - like an Africa Twin by the way - is just as good at getting through the bits and pieces as it is at commuting to work. ‘Dual Sport' at a competitive price, in other words.
It is and remains a flip-up helmet, so first of all we look for the centrally placed button at the bottom. It's called glove-friendly operation and it's easy to find, so no surprises there. The red button is located at the bottom because the chin vent dominates the front of the helmet. Adventure, so that's how it should be. Together with the ample top ventilation it is part of an 'advanced channeling ventilation system' and that will in any case keep your head clear and your thoughts on the road. Something the interior - see below - contributes to.
A light head, for that you first have to look at the polycarbonate helmet shell. This is typical for HJC and has proved its worth throughout much of their range. There is enough CAD-technology involved to keep everything light and well-fitting in every helmet size. It's a compact helmet, but the sun visor and the adventure construction mean you don't feel like this flip-up helmet is pocket-size.
The transparent, UV-resistant, scratch-free visor is one with a broad view of the world. The slider that controls the built-in sun visor sits behind your left ear. Just far enough from the hinged visor, the opening chinstrap and the sun visor already mounted on it. It looks packed when you read that list but in practice it is not that bad. It's very well-constructed and there are several possible setups, because you can also (temporarily) remove the sun visor. A Pinlock® lens is not included but it is installation-ready.
The inside of the C80 contains a removable, washable, cooling interior. Odors and sweat don't stand a chance thanks to the anti-bacterial silver ion treatment. The C80 is designed to give oxygen to the motorcyclist and you can 'get a move on’, let that be clear. Spectacle-wearers will be happy with the cut-outs that HJC provides in the interior.
The closure of this motorcycle helmet is micrometric, adjustable and integrated in a soft, wide chin strap. Together with the well-designed neck rim of this motorcycle helmet this reduces the risk of whiplash and increases comfort.
In some countries (e.g., France) it is mandatory to have reflective stickers on your helmet. The C80 is delivered without these reflective stickers. 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 oncoming headlights. 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.
