GMAX GM68S Helmet Review: Now Available in black!

[Rogue]

Before I begin, I highly recommend you read the professional review of the GMAX G68S done by WebBike World, where it was named Helmet of the Year.  Here is the link to that review:  http://www.webbikeworld.com/r2/motorcycle-helmet/gmax/gm68s/

I think that those who got interested in this helmet, including myelf, are really wondering....is it possible for a low cost helmet to perform as well as a high end helmet?  Well, that answer will vary from one person to the next since each has their own criteria of how good a helmet should be.  For me, if the GMAX could match the performance of my Shoei RF1000, that makes it a very good helmet considering my Shoei cost over $300 and the GMAX cost a mere $100!  Anything else that came after that would be icing on the cake.  

I just recently put 200 miles on my own GMAX 68S helmet today.  Here is my review.



My G68S arrived on my doorstep in a box with the helmet inside wrapped in a nice helmet bag along with a clear shield AND a smoke shield wrapped in its own matching shield bag.  Altogether the package cost me $107 shipped to my door via the Motorcycle Superstore.

Fit and Finish:
The 68S' graphics are pretty simple, with only a few colors and simple design.  I chose the Crusader graphics in Titanium Silver.  The paint is good with no overspray and the clearcoat is evenly applied with a nice shine to it.  The sliding levers that control the forehead vents and chinbar vent door are made out of plastic and they slide open and close with good feel and precision.  They do feel and look thin and slightly more flimsy than those on my Shoei RF1000.  Both shields are very clear with no distortion whatsoever.  The shield mechanism is easy to detach and re-attach using two hands, and it has multiple detents ranging from just slightly open to fully open.  The interior is also of good quality but it does not match the fully covered & plush interior of my Shoei.  Overall, the fit and finish is well beyond adequate for a helmet of this price range.

Helmet Fit:
I am probably one of those people Shoei designed their RF series of helmets for as I have never met an Shoei RF helmet I didn't fit perfectly into.  Having said this, the GMAX 68S fits my head just about as good as my RF1000.  In fact, the 68S feels more comfortable around my ears because there is no padding in that area, leaving my ears unobstructed with no pressure points to cause pain later.  This also makes it very easy to put on my glasses since my earlobes are not being squeezed against my head.  The sizing is about the same as the Shoei and the head measurements is exactly what the GMAX website says it is.  

Weight:
The G68S is made out of ordinary materials with no fancy carbon fiber or titanium portions.  It also has lots of vent openings, as well as that gimmicky rear LED "tail lights".  Yet, the helmet manages to be lightweight.  In fact, it is only slightly heavier than my RF1000, which is an industry leader in being one of the lightest full face helmets out there.  Suffice it to say, the 68S is a light weight helmet considering its materials and structure.

Ventilation:
Is it possible to get too much ventilation from a full face helmet?  Yes it is!  The 68S proves that it is also possible to have excellent ventilation from an inexpensive helmet.  Maybe too much!  With all the vents open, the 68S flows air like no other helmet I have ever had.  Better than my Shoei RF1000.  I can feel cool air flowing along the top of my head as well as around the chin area.  This is a huge plus since most helmets that promise good ventilation RARELY deliver, yet the GMAX does it almost too easily.  However, there is a constant flow of air around the chinbar no matter if I have the main chin ventilation door open or closed.  I believe this door only controls air flowing to the shield.  The 68S has two mesh covered openings on each side of the chin and it vents directly into the chin area of the helmet.  These vents cannot be closed.  This is a downside because this constant flow of air, although it is calm and refreshing, is too much in cold weather riding.  The top vents can be closed.

Look at all those vent openings!


Aerodynamics:
GMAX does not make any claims about the 68S' aerodynamics yet it is one of the most aerodynamic helmets I have owned.  The Shoei RF1000 is extremely efficient at moving air around it and it is a benchmark in this regard.  Yet the 68S feels just as aerodynamic.  It exhibits zero lift even at indicated speeds of 110 mph!  It also does not "whip" my head when I turn to look left or right even at high speed.

Noise Control:
Again, the Shoei RF1000 is THE benchmark for quietness thanks to its smooth aero shape.  The GMAX 68S is not far behind.  Even with the absence of ear padding, a thick neckroll, and all that air venting through it, the 68S manages to remain fairly quiet.  There is no high nor low frequency noises or booming even at very high speeds.  It does have a constant but sumbdued wind rushing sound at speed but it is far from being obtrusive.  Other than that, it is fairly quiet.

Overall:
I am thoroughly amazed at how good the GMAX 68S is.  I will admit that the exterior finish and interior plushness is not at the same level as my Shoei RF1000.  But its fit and performance equals and/or exceeds that of my $200+ more expensive Shoei!  In terms of weight, ventilation, aerodynamics, noise suppression, the GMAX G68S is able to run with the best.  How is that possible at this price point?  How is this possible without any fancy materials?  I do not know the answer to this.  All I know is, the 68S is one hell of a helmet bargain today!  

[TBone]

Thanks for the write up! I ordered one based on the webbikeworld review, figuring I almost can't lose for $100.  

Now I feel pretty good about the decision!

[ksann]

Nice review Rogue, but we want to know about buffeting @ 170mph, so get back out there, 'in the name of science  ', and retest it!



Overall, the interior, does it feel like it will last, or will it wear quickly like some car interiors?




ken

[Tyrroneous]

Nice review Rogue.  Whats your take on the rear led's?  Is it all gimmick or do they actually increase rear visibility to some extent?

[Rogue]

LOL!  Ken, what are we going to do with your speed addiction?  

The interior is made of coolmax and it's removable for cleaning.  I really have no clue how long it will last.  I guess I'll find out.  But for $100, it shouldn't be an issue.  I'd say, replace the helmet after two seasons.  

The rear LED light is mostly a gimmick but I can think of situations in which it increase your visibility from behind.  I think the fast blinking would be very useful in foggy conditions.  The always on would also be very useful at night when all people will see is your single tailight and your reflectors.  Now they will also see your helmet.  So it has some use that may improve safety while riding.  But with or without the LED, the helmet's performance stands head and shoulders above many other helmets costing hundreds more.  It's not just me saying it.  Many others who have tried the helmet agree.  Read the comments on the Webbike World site and see for yourself.

[ol Rocket]

Ken's comment was my only concern.  I have a friend who bought a GMax and the materials were shot after two 6 month riding periods (we live on the east side of the state).  But it's a nice looking helmet.

I'm afraid I wouldn't pull the trigger.  I like things that are heavy, costly and extravagant.  It's just me.

[00NBVFR]

I read the WebBike world review along with the comments left by readers here and on the WebBikeWorld site.  Someone refers to the following : "Before giving a helmet its final rating, you should always check to see whether the helmet has EPS below the ear, around the jaw and at the chin. The GMAX does not.  This is a serious safety issue that needs to be addressed.  Most helmets in the GMAX price range do have EPS in these areas, something that does make a helmet safer."


Does anyone know what EPS is and what safety issue he would be referring too?  

[ksann]

Does anyone know what EPS is and what safety issue he would be referring too?  

EPS = Expanded Poly Styrene = Styrofoam (a trademark name here in the US).

Basically, the outer shell stops intrusion (something poking through) and spreads the impact load over a large area, and the Styrofoam slows down your head semi-gently (well, it is relative). That is basically how a helmet works.


ken

[Grubnik]

Beat me to it...  

[00NBVFR]

EPS = Expanded Poly Styrene = Styrofoam (a trademark name here in the US).

Basically, the outer shell stops intrusion (something poking through) and spreads the impact load over a large area, and the Styrofoam slows down your head semi-gently (well, it is relative). That is basically how a helmet works.


ken

Thanks! :-)  

[mikeyman]

I read the same review and comment on webbikeworld. I figured, for 107 bucks, what the heck. It arrives at my office tomorrow (but I am home with the flu) so I will look for the EPS below the ear line and let you all know.

Gimmick or not, having a light on your melon at night is bound to improve visibility. ANYTHING that gets a cage's attention in a positive, non-dazzling way is a good thing.

[TBone]

I got my GMAX helmet yesterday and had a chance to take it for a couple rides. Fit and finish are definitely better than you could reasonably expect for the price, and the ventilation is outstanding. As far as the chin vents go, my helmet came with two plugs to stop the flow of air. ( they were in the bag with the dark smoke LED cover) Not the most elegant solution, IMO. With so many vent covers already designed in, what's 2 more? The plugs can be very easily lost and then you're stuck with no way to control the airflow on your face.

Aside from that one very minor complaint, I am REALLY impressed with this helmet. It fits and looks great, it's light and aerodynamic, and it only cost $107 shipped! I'm almost tempted to buy a couple more in different colors for some variety!  

[Rogue]

Thanks for the tip about the plugs.  You will definitely need that in winter.  That's how good the venting is.

It boggles my mind though how they could make this helmet perform as well as it does for this price.  They make it seem almost easy.  I mean, why do more expensive helmets not vent as well, be as lightweight, quiet, simple, and aerodynamic?  Oh well.  

[ksann]

Why no solid colors?


What is up with that?





ken

[TBone]

Simple. wild graphics make you faster!  

[Rogue]

I agree Ken.  That kind of irritated me a bit.

But what's wrong with the Crusader symbol?  You're not Muslim are you?  

[ksann]

I agree Ken.  That kind of irritated me a bit.

But what's wrong with the Crusader symbol?  You're not Muslim are you?  

Not quite.


And that is the less bothersome of the choices, but i just prefer a solid color.





ken
(-does not choose a helmet based on religion, race, creed, or speed)

[JoBu]

Hey Rogue...

Great write-up.  I, too, read the review on WBB and was hoping someone would back-up their claims.  Seems like you are in agreement with them.  Just one question for you...what kind of bike were you riding when you tested it?  Noise levels vary for me depending on whether I'm on a full-faired bike or a naked and some helmets tend to work better on one design more than the other in terms of noise levels.  I am very interested in picking one up for a summer helmet as it gets simply brutal down here in FL and your take on the venting really sold me.  Thanks again for taking the time out to write this review as well as comparing it to what is probably my favorite helmet (RF-1000).  

Cheers,

Joe

[Fav]

Motorcyclesuperstore.com is where I got mine. I too am impressed with the Gmax. Being the owner of an Arai Corsair and Shark RSR2 helmet......the cheap G68 is worthy imo.

I didn't see the stealth black on their site but found it on this one..... Solid Matte black for safety  

http://store.dsrpowersports.com/20gmsohe.html

[Rogue]

Hey Rogue...

Just one question for you...what kind of bike were you riding when you tested it?  Noise levels vary for me depending on whether I'm on a full-faired bike or a naked and some helmets tend to work better on one design more than the other in terms of noise levels.  Joe

The bike I have ridden the GMAX GM68S is on a Buell Firebolt.  I did fit the Firebolt with a Zero Gravity ST screen (higher).

Just came back from another 250 miler with the GMAX.  Really impressed with this thing once again.  With hearing protection on, all I hear (besides the engine) is the subdued rushing of wind.  This is at 80-90 mph.  No lifting, no buffeting, no extraneous noises that annoy.  I also noticed how clear the shield is.  I agree with Webbike World:  the GM68S' shield quality is very, very good.  It's like you are looking through nothing at all!  Amazing.

I do have to add a warning though:

Those of you who intend to use this helmet in cold weather beware.  The GM68S has two openings up front in the chinbar that are ALWAYS OPEN.  At temps below 65 it can get mighty cold around your face!  Make sure you get the "plugs" for these openings for winter use.  Mine did NOT come with these plugs and on cold mornings I wish I had them so I can shut off the airflow.  I will have to contact Motorcycle Superstore or GMAX direct to get these plugs

But if you live in Florida, you will love the ventilation!  I know I will love this thing during the SoCal summer months.

[JoBu]

Thanks, Rogue!!    I appreciate the follow-up.  

Cheers,

Joe

[mikeyman]

Got mine this morning. Spent the day with it on at my desk (my workmates won't even look me in they eyes anymore...they think I'm nuts). Now I have a HUGE red mark on my forehead and a box headed back to Oregon.

The good:

If you have a ROUND head, this helmet is pretty sweet. The fit and finish are heads and tails above what you would expect in a $110 helmet. I know some feel the lights on the back are gimmicky, but I feel anything that gets a tailgating cager's attention is a plus. The interior felt plush and the visor was crystal clear and damn near invisible. It felt lighter than my current lid (Icon Mainframe). I am SURE the vents would move a huge amount of air. Looks (Crusader Graphics) are pretty slick.

The bad:

Doesn't fit my head. There is no EPS foam anywhere below ear-line...certainly none in the chin bar area. The front air vents are fixed open and close with two foam plugs which must be manually fit into the vent holes of the chin bar.

I guess this underlines the hit-or-miss side of ordering a helmet from an online retailer. My quest continues.

[endleesss]

Is your helmet really silver - glossy? I actually bought this helmet 3x and I got a copper-bronze-ish color =(

[atadaskew]

I tried one on at the dealership.  The good - for the money it is really nicely finished.  
The bad - I wear an Arai Signet as my primary helmet, and an HJC AC11 as secondary.  The GMAX is extremely uncomfortable compared to those so I guess it's not a long oval style.  You're getting a great looking helmet for the money, but don't kid yourself that you're getting an Arai or Shoei for $100...

[mikeyman]

Unfortunately I have to agree. If it fits your head (round) its pretty nice and has some neat features. It certainly doesn't feel cheap, but its not an Arai or Shoei. I don't have the scratch at the moment for an Arai or Shoei, but I was able to find the top end HJC AC-12 on new enough for $99 and it fits my oval shaped cranium rather well.

[leaftye]

The good:

If you have a ROUND head, this helmet is pretty sweet. The fit and finish are heads and tails above what you would expect in a $110 helmet. I know some feel the lights on the back are gimmicky, but I feel anything that gets a tailgating cager's attention is a plus. The interior felt plush and the visor was crystal clear and damn near invisible. It felt lighter than my current lid (Icon Mainframe). I am SURE the vents would move a huge amount of air. Looks (Crusader Graphics) are pretty slick.

The bad:

Doesn't fit my head. There is no EPS foam anywhere below ear-line...certainly none in the chin bar area. The front air vents are fixed open and close with two foam plugs which must be manually fit into the vent holes of the chin bar.

Damn, I was hoping it'd fit longer heads better.  Thanks for posting this information.  I was planning on buying one next month, and you just saved me from a bad buy.

[00NBVFR]

Thanks for the write up! I ordered one based on the webbikeworld review, figuring I almost can't lose for $100.  

Now I feel pretty good about the decision!

Got the Titanium GM68S also to replace my crashed helmet :-)

[Rogue]

It's now available in Matte Black:

http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com/1/1/38/12166/ITEM/GMax-GM68-SPC-Helmet.aspx



Just re-ordered mine to replace my crash tested GM68 helmet!  

[ksann]

It's now available in Matte Black:

http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com/1/1/38/12166/ITEM/GMax-GM68-SPC-Helmet.aspx



Just re-ordered mine to replace my crash tested GM68 helmet!  

That says a lot, when someone that just pavement tested, reorders the same thing.

Same colors?



ken

[Rogue]

Flat black of course!  

I originally wanted a black helmet in the first place but they didn't have one available.

[Athan]

So, current owners.  How does it compare to other helmets in the noise dept?

[Rogue]

It's almost as quiet as my Shoei RF1000.  The review says it all.

[Fav]

So, current owners.  How does it compare to other helmets in the noise dept?

Seems quieter than my Arai Corsair

[Athan]

your head sit in dirty or clean air?    the bandit tends to flow some pretty dirty air directly at my head.

[Lynbiker]

For those of you lookin to buy this helmet,there is a guy on Ebay selling them for $79.00 with the tinted shield and smoke lens for the blinkin lights.

[Rogue]

Just got mine in flat black.  Looks sweet!  

[ksann]

Just got mine in flat black.  Looks sweet!  

Now you just need a new bike to match it!




ken

[Big Bo]

I looked at the Gmax helmet, the Icon Airframe, and then a Shoei RF1000. I found plastic on the top of the Gmax that was not glued down. It also flexed on the top. The Icon was not in the color that I wanted or I would have bought it. The RF1000 went home with me.

Good luck with your choice.

[mikeyman]

I looked at the Gmax helmet, the Icon Airframe, and then a Shoei RF1000. I found plastic on the top of the Gmax that was not glued down. It also flexed on the top. The Icon was not in the color that I wanted or I would have bought it. The RF1000 went home with me.

Good luck with your choice.

Quite a range of helmets you got there...let's see $106, $250 and $300-500. If I had my choice(and the $$$), I think the Shoei would come home with me too!!!

[Rogue]

Agree.

A $107 helmet vs a $350 helmet seems like an unfair comparison.  But let me just say I have an RF1000 that I paid $350 for and on my 2nd GMAX GM68 that I paid $107 for each.

Performance-wise, they are very similar.  But of course the Shoei is more luxurious, better finish, better quality feeling controls.  That is where the $243 difference is going.

[vulcanbill]

Back to the top.   Mine arrived today and I want more people talking about it.  Will ride tomorrow for a first hand eval...

BillO

[leaftye]

I just ordered a black and silver Crusader.  I don't expect it to fit perfectly, but I'll shave and pad until it's comfortable enough.

[Billbo]

I tried one on and it sat WAY high on my head. I actually looked inside to see if some packing material was left in. I think I saw this mentioned in the other thread. Comments?

[leaftye]

At least you could try it on.  I don't think there are any dealers at all on the west coast.

[vulcanbill]

So far, so good.  Regarding my biggest complaint, there was no fogging this morning.  It was 48 when I left and 51 when I arrived.  A little warmer than most fogging issue days but I still got a really good sense of what this helmet will offer.  I was able to vent at very small intervals (unlike the Scorpion) which was absolutely perfect.  Since it vented so well, I was able to wear my sunglasses, which fit very well and even they didn’t fog except at stoplights when I intentionally left the shield down to see what would happen.  Even then, it was slower to fog than usual as there was so much cool air inside the helmet already.  On the road, I can’t really tell if the helmet is noisier than the Scorpion or not.  I don’t really pay attention to that stuff.  The air around the Givi screen on the VFR is pretty dirty anyway.  When I get my ER6i headphones, it will be a moot point anyway.  It doesn’t feel any heavier or lighter but that’s another one of those things I don’t really notice since I have a giant strong neck.  I played with the vents a little and did notice that there was some air moving but until I need to move a lot of really hot air out, I probably won’t feel a massive difference.  I was aware of my head being very comfortable temp wise this morning but that’s probably because it was 50 degrees.  Not sure how often I’m going to get lower temps than that for the rest of the year.  

Comfort is fine.  The Scorpion is more comfortable and the Aria wins that category hands down but my chin is too close to the bar which is a huge mental block.  Plenty of space between my jaw and the chin bar in the GMAX.  Still way more comfortable than HJCs or other helmets feel on me.  Obviously, a long ride will reveal much more about comfort.  The light smoke was nice but I prefer a dark smoke shield.  Combined with shades, it was fine.

Yeah, it feels a little cheesier than the others and the look is a little over the top (I got the white dragon) and honestly, I’m not sure how it got WBW’s Helmet of the Year but for 107 bucks shipped with a spare shield, it is an incredibly smokin’ deal if it serves it purpose.  I hope to never find out if it will serve its ultimate intended purpose but for me, the morning fogging / venting issues has been addressed and addressed well so far.  More will likely follow.

[turboderek]

do you still have the Scorpion.  I ask because I have a exo-700 and i'm looking at the gmax.  How do the shell sizes compare between the two helmets?

So far, so good.  Regarding my biggest complaint, there was no fogging this morning.  It was 48 when I left and 51 when I arrived.  A little warmer than most fogging issue days but I still got a really good sense of what this helmet will offer.  I was able to vent at very small intervals (unlike the Scorpion) which was absolutely perfect.  Since it vented so well, I was able to wear my sunglasses, which fit very well and even they didn’t fog except at stoplights when I intentionally left the shield down to see what would happen.  Even then, it was slower to fog than usual as there was so much cool air inside the helmet already.  On the road, I can’t really tell if the helmet is noisier than the Scorpion or not.  I don’t really pay attention to that stuff.  The air around the Givi screen on the VFR is pretty dirty anyway.  When I get my ER6i headphones, it will be a moot point anyway.  It doesn’t feel any heavier or lighter but that’s another one of those things I don’t really notice since I have a giant strong neck.  I played with the vents a little and did notice that there was some air moving but until I need to move a lot of really hot air out, I probably won’t feel a massive difference.  I was aware of my head being very comfortable temp wise this morning but that’s probably because it was 50 degrees.  Not sure how often I’m going to get lower temps than that for the rest of the year.  

Comfort is fine.  The Scorpion is more comfortable and the Aria wins that category hands down but my chin is too close to the bar which is a huge mental block.  Plenty of space between my jaw and the chin bar in the GMAX.  Still way more comfortable than HJCs or other helmets feel on me.  Obviously, a long ride will reveal much more about comfort.  The light smoke was nice but I prefer a dark smoke shield.  Combined with shades, it was fine.

Yeah, it feels a little cheesier than the others and the look is a little over the top (I got the white dragon) and honestly, I’m not sure how it got WBW’s Helmet of the Year but for 107 bucks shipped with a spare shield, it is an incredibly smokin’ deal if it serves it purpose.  I hope to never find out if it will serve its ultimate intended purpose but for me, the morning fogging / venting issues has been addressed and addressed well so far.  More will likely follow.

[TBone]

I have size Large EXO-700. I originally ordered a Large GMax, but it was a little too tight. I eventually went up to a size XL. As far as the fit, it is very similar to the Scorpion, except I have a little more room in the lower cheek/jaw area where the Scorpion was pretty tight.

Hope that helps and/or made sense.

[turboderek]

the external size is what i was asking

I have size Large EXO-700. I originally ordered a Large GMax, but it was a little too tight. I eventually went up to a size XL. As far as the fit, it is very similar to the Scorpion, except I have a little more room in the lower cheek/jaw area where the Scorpion was pretty tight.

Hope that helps and/or made sense.

[todao]

I've worn mine twice now, both on really hot days.  Here's my experiece.

fit is not as good as my Arai Astral X, since my head is not round.  but it's acceptable fit.

It is definitely cooler than the Arai in terms of air flow.  Both times riding in high 80's low 90's, my head did not sweat.  I would've had a wet forhead on the Arai.  I can't feel the air on the top of my head but it was not hot in the helmet like the Arai.  The shield opening is nice and easy.

I didn't notice greater clarity in the shield that the guy raved about on webbikeworld.  it's fine though.

it does seem very light; a little lighter than the Arai.  Very nice.

Padding inside is not as good as the Arai to me; I like the cheek pads snug but fit is still very very good.

Noise is better than the Arai; maybe much better.   I wear ear plugs and I maybe don't need them with the GMax.  I'll still wear em but the GMax is a very quiet helmet, esp. with the vents.

I'm going to use mine for hot weather riding all summer.

[vulcanbill]

do you still have the Scorpion.  I ask because I have a exo-700 and i'm looking at the gmax.  How do the shell sizes compare between the two helmets?

I still have the Scorpion.  The Gmax seems bigger even before throwin in all that extra crap for the top vents.  Fit is fine for both but the cheekpads seem a little more intrusive on the Gmax.  Now I'm stuck on there not being EPS in the jaw and chin bar areas on the GMAX.  After wearing the Gmax, which is fine, the Scorpion feels much more comfortable.  If you don't have any issues with the Scorpion, I wouldn't get the Gmax.  I got it specifically to address the cold morning fogging issue which it has but if I'm afraid of it being made of glass, I might not wear it anyway.  Jury is still out.  Investigation is being conducted.  Sure would like to see some jawline / chin bar testing on some of these helmets.

[atadaskew]

At least you could try it on.  I don't think there are any dealers at all on the west coast.

Santa Monica Honda Kawasaki has them on the shelf.

[Rogue]

Thought I might add a bit of update on my experience with the GMAX G68S.

Most of you know, I'm on #2 helmet.  #1 hit the ground when I did a cheeck/jaw plant as I slid along the road.  All I can say is the helmet did its job and I didn't sustain any injuries anywhere above my neck.  I didn't even notice the impact and sliding on the side and front of my helmet.

I was so happy with #1, I replaced it with a flat black model/Rubatone.  I have to say that the flat black G68S is even more handsome than the Crusader paintjob.  I think I might add a mirror shield just for the bling.  I've ridden a few hundred miles with my GMAX G68S now.  The fit has only gotten better (I have a Shoei head and fit an RF1000 perfectly.  The venting is very nice especially on very hot days.  On cold days it's almost too much venting around the face, and I can feel the cold air around my head.  On hot days, I don't feel the air around my head but I sweat way less inside it.

The interior is not as plush as my Shoei.  But that's okay with me because I didn't pay as much for it.  The best part is, the G68S performs as well or better than my Shoei.  It even feels just as light and my RF1000 was very light.  

[vulcanbill]

Thought I might add a bit of update on my experience with the GMAX G68S.

Most of you know, I'm on #2 helmet.  #1 hit the ground when I did a cheeck/jaw plant as I slid along the road.  All I can say is the helmet did its job and I didn't sustain any injuries anywhere above my neck.  I didn't even notice the impact and sliding on the side and front of my helmet.

I was so happy with #1, I replaced it with a flat black model/Rubatone.  I have to say that the flat black G68S is even more handsome than the Crusader paintjob.  I think I might add a mirror shield just for the bling.  I've ridden a few hundred miles with my GMAX G68S now.  The fit has only gotten better (I have a Shoei head and fit an RF1000 perfectly.  The venting is very nice especially on very hot days.  On cold days it's almost too much venting around the face, and I can feel the cold air around my head.  On hot days, I don't feel the air around my head but I sweat way less inside it.

The interior is not as plush as my Shoei.  But that's okay with me because I didn't pay as much for it.  The best part is, the G68S performs as well or better than my Shoei.  It even feels just as light and my RF1000 was very light.  

Thanks Rogue.  
Can you tell a little more about your accident and specifically what the helmet impact was like?  I just read that Motorcyclist helmet article / Snell bitchfest from a couple years ago and now I so totally confused.  What kind of impact did you take on the front/lower side of your helmet?  Thanks.

BillO

[atadaskew]

The SParx helmets are really well reviewed by webbikeworld, and if you crash in them they will replace for free.
A little FYI.

[Rogue]

The impact was basically a cheek/jaw face plant on the ground then a short slide.  I didn't even feel it.  But it was obvious by the damage to the helmet I hit the side of the face on the ground and slid a bit.  It was a minor lowside at around 45-55 mph.

[steve.ski]

The SParx helmets are really well reviewed by webbikeworld, and if you crash in them they will replace for free.
A little FYI.

No offense, but Sparx helmets are the worst ever. Please don't trust your head to one. Absolute shit.

[atadaskew]

No offense, but Sparx helmets are the worst ever. Please don't trust your head to one. Absolute shit.

How so?  I tried them on in the shop and compared it to the Gmax they had right next to it.  I'd rate the Sparx higher than the Gmax, but it does cost about $20 more?  Their if you wreck in it , they will replace it warranty is nice too.
No offense taken as I do not own one.

[steve.ski]

How so?  I tried them on in the shop and compared it to the Gmax they had right next to it.  I'd rate the Sparx higher than the Gmax, but it does cost about $20 more?  Their if you wreck in it , they will replace it warranty is nice too.
No offense taken as I do not own one.

Their low price reflects their paltry construction. Sparx has a line of off road helmets that offer ZERO protection on the chin bar. Their street helmets are virtually identical in terms of materials used and testing methodology (which is zero).

I have a couple articles about their off road helmets that would curl your toes. I'll try to scan them and post them up in a bit...

Please don't scrimp on helmets. Top quality helmets cost more, but isn't your head really worth it? I'm not trying to start a helmet debate, but really, does anyone think cheap helmets will offer the same protection? Come on...

EDIT: Here are the editorials from Transworld Motocross and QUad magazines. Good for them for having the balls to publish this:






Jordan, sorry for the threadjack.  

[ksann]

 




ken

[Billbo]

Cool that they had the nads to tell the truth and lose the ad revenue (I assume). I guess I'm way too pretty to crash-test a sparx helmet.

[Rogue]

Well at least we all know the GMAX can hold up to a minor crash/face plant on pavement.

[mikeyman]

I am usually one with an eye for a bargain. I bought and returned the Gmax (didn't fit). So I went hunting. Once again, www.newenough.com is your friend... http://www.newenough.com/closeouts/helmets/hjc/ac_12_yikes_iii_motorcycle_helmet.html
This is the TOP of the HJC line for a little less than the $109 models now out. Can't beat that for my money... and that is what is on my head.

Happy riding...

[Lynbiker]

I have had the GMAX for about a month now and have nothing but praise for this Helmet.Nothing has broke,fell off,or stop working.Vents are GREAT to the point I have had to close some of them from my head gettin cold!!I have the flat silver crusader and people who dont even ride seem to like it.When it is new it is a little snug but after 2 weeks it will loosen up to fit you head like it was custom made.No hot spots anyware.For $100 you cannot beat it,in fact I sold my Shoei x-11 just wasnt wearin it anymore.

[vulcanbill]

I've had my Gmax for a while now as well.  The commute has been fine.  Venting does what I need it to.  Shields are great and even the changing mechanism is pretty simple.  Couple Saturdays ago, we did a 520 mile ride and I wore the Scorpion Exo-700.  After a couple hours, my ears began to hurt.  Weird.  Great for the commute and a short ride.  

This past Saturday, we did a 535 mile ride, with a bit better than 1/2 in the rain.  I wore the Gmax and it performed flawlessly.  No water came in and some of the rain had attitude.  The first stint in the saddle, I had my ER6i's in and there was still no discomfort.  For a while after I first got it, I was afraid that there would be some hot spots on my jaws where the padding sits.  Not the case.  I have the white dragon which is kinda over the top for me but it's the most visible.  I took my Arai just in case something didn't work out.  Didn't even think about getting it out.  As evening set in, I started playing with the LEDs and Kim said they're pretty cool as long as there isn't abundant daylight.  

Pretty happy with this 107 dollar helmet.

BillO

BillO

[stw]

...I am probably one of those people Shoei designed their RF series of helmets for as I have never met an Shoei RF helmet I didn't fit perfectly into.  Having said this, the GMAX 68S fits my head just about as good as my RF1000...

Should I get a medium GMAX gm68s if a medium Shoei RF-1000 fits me perfectly? Do the GMAX run large or small compared to Shoei RF helmets?  Thanks.

[Rogue]

I have found the GMAX GM68S is the same as Shoei sizing.

[leaftye]

I broke my GM68S by dropping it off my bike, twice.  It broke the hinge on the left side, and the visor on the right side.  It's just a visor, so it shouldn't affect crash safety, but it sure made for another annoying part in what was a pretty bad day.  At least it was an relatively inexpensive helmet.