The HJC I91 is the ECE R22.06 certified successor to the righteously very popular I90 range of HJC motorcycle helmets. Which was already a successor to the successful Max II. The pedigree of this collection of entry-level motorcycle helmets is slowly but steadily starting to look quite impressive. Oh, and the HJC I91 carries a double homologation, which means that you can see it as either a full-face helmet or a jet helmet.
Apart from the new ECE R22.06 homologation, this HJC I91 is also ready to be fitted with the newest generation of Smart HJC intercom devices (11B, 21B en 50B). Even more, HJC has integrated their ingenious and adjustable sun visor. So, a serious update. Take a glance at the price tag and you’ll be sure of that. That glance might as well be peripheral: the transparent visor is wide and stays clear in almost all conditions. Thanks to the RapidFire Shield Replacement System you don’t need tools to replace the transparent visor, while the integrated sun visor gives you reason not to do that all too often.
Speaking of the integrated sun visor; a clever piece of technical ingenuity. By ‘configuring’ the right setting once by removing the cover on the left, right above the slider, you determine the position of the sun visor when flipped down. The possibilities in flip-down depth allow for any morphology and preference to be an option. Read: no more issues for riders endowed with a well-developed sniffer.
There aren’t all too many double homologated P/J motorcycle helmets in the market, which is an additional bonus here. The motorcycle helmet shell of the I91 is made out of polycarbonate, resulting in a relatively light (about 1,850 grams) yet solid helmet shell. The different motorcycle helmet sizes are divided over 3 helmet shells.
In flipped-up condition specifically, the motorcycle helmet is more compact (lower) than its predecessor, thanks to another (double) hinge system at the chin piece. The fact that it also keeps noise and upward draught at bay, is a nice plus.
To open and close the ‘system’, you use the red button at the bottom of the chin piece. This is quite straightforward: the button is large enough to be operated with gloves. Obviously, the double homologation requires the I91 to be locked in position when flipped up, although there’s no real locking going on. This simplifies changing the position during your ride.
The very extensive ‘ventilation’ division consists of five air inlets and seven air outlets. Yessir. The chin ventilation guides riding wind in as well as past the transparent visor, which additionally prevents fogging. The same principle applies to the ventilation right above the visor opening (at eyebrow level) where it’s the sun visor that is provided with a gush of fresh air. All the ventilation openings and air outlets are internally connected by the HJC ‘ACS’ system (Advanced Channelling Ventilation System). Those integrated air channels in the inner shell are what distribute fresh air internally, which is certainly noticeable by the wearer.
Beneath the central, red pushbutton, you find the (Velcro-attached) wind curtain chin, which takes us seamlessly to the interior of the HJC I91. In these days, that interior is cut to size, removable, perfectly cleanable, antibacterial and washable. Cutouts in the right places provide added comfort for glasses-wearers.
Evidently, the micrometric closure can be adjusted in length and was given a Microlock system. Add the breath deflector, availability in a variety of colours and a well-finished neck rim to that mix, take a quick glance at the price tag and come to the conclusion that this is a very remarkable motorcycle helmet.
In some countries (e.g., France), it is mandatory to provide your helmet with reflective stickers. The I91 is delivered without these reflective stickers. Reflective sticker sets can be found here.
Maintenance tips:
- Are you reluctant to disassemble the interior of your helmet in order to wash it? You can also clean the interior without removing it with S100 Helmet Interior Cleaner.
- The outside and the visor of your helmet should be cleaned with S100 Helmet and visor Cleaner.
Safety above all! Never ride with a scratched or dull visor. Especially at night, scratches cause blinding reflections of street lights and headlights of oncoming vehicles. This effect is even more pronounced in rainy weather. It is best to replace a worn visor as soon as possible. Planning a long trip? Then don't forget to take a replacement visor with you. Never ride in the dark with a tinted visor.
