Kimpex’s Marie-Josée Turcotte wanted to tell us about some of the new items in its CKX helmet line. First the CKX Tranz touring helmet comes with an injection molded plastic shell and a removable interior lining, described Turcotte. It was designed to offer excellent comfort, a beautiful look and make it possible for the rider to easily converse with the passenger or others, plus it offers the benefits of a ful-face helmet with the advantages of an open face helmet, she explained. Also new is the CKX RR700, a sport bike oriented helmet, which is said to feature a therm-injected plastic shell, deluxe removable and washable interior liner, plus removable cheek pads and a rear exhaust. Then there is the CKX VX-17 Cordova (pictured), which is ideal for the motocross user, noted Turcotte. This helmet reportedly features lightweight, fiberglass construction for maximum strength and minimum weight and it comes with a removable/washable Coolmax liner and cheek pads, as well as a non-slip goggle strap locator. She added, “The choice of the colors was made according to the new hot collections on the market.” Finally, there are two new youth models: the CKX VG-K2 Corsair and the TX-217 Vicky, she told us. “The VG-K2 was influenced by designs from pirates of the Caribbean and the Vicky promotes a nostalgic ‘50s look,” said Turcotte. All of these helmets are DOT approved and the retail price of each helmet is $139.99 (Tranz), $99.99 (CKX RR700), $159.99 (VX-17 Cordova), $99.99 (VG-K2 Corsair), and $69.99 (Vicky), concluded Turcotte.

CKX - Kimpex
Phone: 819-472-3326
Fax: 819-472-1044
www.kimpex.com

The Echo quick release helmet buckle frees riders from the tiresome helmet D-rings and offers them the same simple, convenient fastening as a car seatbelt, explained spokesperson Matthew Combs. “All metal locking pieces meet or exceed DOT and SNELL standards,” he told us, adding, the buckle is easy to install and doesn’t require cutting or sewing. It is available in a variety of colors and priced at under $10.00, Combs stated. “This is a great impulse buy to display near your cash register,” he told dealers.

Echo Products
Phone: 702-345-3880
www.echoproducts.com

Fly Racing’s Platinum LX Series helmets (pictured on pg. 12), which feature the Relic and Renaissance graphics, are the company’s latest helmets, said Sales Manager Daryn Wessela. Featuring a lightweight carbon fiber/Kevlar shell, these helmets exceed SNELL M2005 and DOT standards, Wessela explained, adding that the helmet includes a forced air induction ventilation system, quick snap cheek pads and comfort liner that allows for easy washing and replacing, as well as custom Lathrop graphics and helmet styling. “It is starting to get harder to distinguish many of the entry-level helmets from the higher end, because of the increase in quality, function, features and nicer graphic packages, but still at very reasonable prices,” explained Wessela. He added, sales of Fly’s motorcycle helmets are up due to the company’s commitment to producing safe, high-quality helmets with fresh new graphics every year. “There are all different types of buyers in the marketplace with different levels of budgets,” he noted. “As a dealer, make sure that your inventory covers all price points of helmets not just entry-level or ‘high end’. You could be missing out on a large chunk of sales, if your store is not playing on all price point levels of the helmet market,” he concluded.

Fly Racing
Phone: 800-999-3388
Fax: 208-375-8901
www.flyracing.com

Western Power Sports Brand Manager Shawn Burnam reported the GMAX GM68 SPC street helmet comes with 19 vents, 9 intakes and 10 exhausts. There is an LED light on the back of the helmet with three modes, plus a removable/ washable Coolmax liner and removable cheek pads with optional sized cheek pads for additional purchase, noted Burnam. He added, the helmet comes with a clear shield and a tinted shield with bag. “The increased features and benefits you get with a helmet at prices that are continually dropping,” is one trend he said he has noticed. Sales are up with the increasing features and benefits at great price points offered with GMAX helmets, like the GM68 SPC which retails for $119.95, he added, “We are displacing other helmet lines in the stores, therefore, increasing our overall sales.” He advised stores need to know how to fit a person properly with the right helmet. “Take the time to work with your customers and give the proper information and time and they will purchase a helmet from you,” Burnam explained.

GMAX Helmets - Western Pwr Sports
Phone: 208-376-8400
Fax: 208-375-8901
www.gmaxhelmet.com

The Head Hunter 700 full-face helmet is new from Helmets Inc., said President Todd Sobel. It features a photochromatic visor, front and rear venting, plus a fiberglass/carbon fiber shell, he told us. “We see a lot of leather companies putting helmets on the market with no brand names,” Sobel cautioned dealers, adding, “These helmets would never pass DOT testing even though they have a DOT sticker on them. How can the Department of Transportation do a recall on a helmet with no name?” Sales are up this year, he explained, which he thinks is because of the company’s growing helmet and accessory lines. Dealers need to know exactly what the DOT standards are and whether or not the helmets in their store meet these standards, advised Sobel.

Helmets Inc.
Phone: 800-827-7507
Fax: 205-278-2244
www.helmetsinc.com

George Hong, president of HJC America said, “We have several new helmets. The two that stand out are the FS10 street helmet and the SPX offroad helmet. They are both very unique and revolutionary in their design.” The FS10 features a one touch integrated sun shield, Silvercool moisture wiking interior, Accusight anti-fog face shield, two stage shield closure mechanism, plus Rapidfire shield replacement system, described Hong. The SPX comes with a revolutionary design with a unique integrated visor, lightweight/superior fit and offers comfort using advanced CAD technology, he told us, adding, it comes with Silvercool moisture wiking and odor free interior with advanced silver anti-bacterial fabric, an ultra comfort chin strap, a large eye port and the pivoting visor extension can be pulled down to block the sun when needed. “Overall, we are noticing that more customers are looking for ‘value’ in their helmets. They are looking for innovative design and quality, all with a reasonable price tag,” explained Hong. Sales are up this year compared to last year, he divulged. “HJC has come out with 16 new dynamic and variety graphics for fall 2007. I believe no other helmet company has come out with variety like the way HJC did,” Hong added. There are two critical things dealer/retailers should know about selling helmets, he said. “First, when selling a helmet, retailers must properly size the rider with his or her helmet. In essence, a helmet must be snug and fit properly so that it will stay on the rider’s head in the unfortunate event of an accident,” advised Hong. “Second, dealer/retailers should check whether or not the factories producing the helmet brands are owned by those factories. The concern is that some helmet brand owners simply outsource production to the cheapest manufacturer. Because helmets are safety equipment, it is vital that they are produced by a reputable manufacturer with a history of manufacturing helmets,” he concluded.

Joe Rocket - Sullivans
Phone: 800-343-5984
www.joerocket.com

The Joe Rocket RKT-101 was introduced in February 2007 and has done extraordinarily well thanks to a strong brand name and a great product, explained Sullivans Marketing Director Steven Blakeney. The helmet features an advanced fiberglass/Spectra composite weave, RapidFire shield system features two stage shield pivot/compression, Quadport integrated flow-thru ventilation system, plus Aquatrans/Biocermaic nylex treated interior with open cell technology foam and multiple shield options including 2D race ready and PinLock ready systems, described Blakeney. The RKT-101 is available in solid ($244.99) and graphic ($269.99) color schemes, he added. Blakeney wanted to advise dealers, “Don’t allow yourselves to be overwhelmed with new gadgets, they are often a mask for a brand that can’t get the fundamentals right.”

Joe Rocket
Phone: 800-343-5984
www.joerocket.com

New from KBC America are the Magnum Mugello (street helmet) and the Super-X Spark (offroad helmet), informed spokesperson Matthew Hwang. The Magnum Mugello features a tri-comp shell constructed using an advanced vacuum lamination system resulting in a lightweight helmet, dual intake ventilation system, quick release visor, as well as a DuraLux washable/removable liner with customizable padding system, described Hwang. It meets or exceeds DOT/SNELL standards, is available in sizes XS-54, S-56, M-58, L-60, XL-62 and XXL-64 and the Magnum Mugello retails for $239.95, he told us. The Super-X Spark helmet comes with a powercore shell constructed using an advanced alloy resin, resulting in a high energy absorption helmet, dual intake ventilation system DuraLux removable/washable liner with customizable padding system and a double D- ring chin strap, Hwang explained. It meets or exceeds DOT and SNELL standards, is available in XS-54, S-56, M-58, L-60, XL-62 and XXL-64 sizes and retails for $189.95, said Hwang. The retro look is making a comeback in the helmet market and the urban street style is also in, he noted. “Sales have stayed about the same, mainly due to the impact of the economy, which has a big influence on motorcycle sales,” he divulged. Hwang concluded by saying, safety and proper fitting are the two most important things a dealer needs to know when selling helmets.

KBC America
Phone: 818-526-7771
Fax: 818-526-7766
www.kbchelmet.com

Made 2 Race
Phone: 530-644-7200
Fax: 530-644-9560
www.made2race.com

“Shoei’s newest model is the Hornet DS dual sport helmet,” noted Helmet House National Marketing Manager Richard Kimes. The Hornet DS features an AIM+ shell construction for unparalleled shell strength and low weight, a wide three dimensionally curved face shield that seals against the offroad style eye port to ensure an optically clear view for the rider, he told us. The helmet also comes with “a wind tunnel developed visor system, which includes a front air intake that channels air into the top of the helmet, helping keep the rider’s head cool and dry, a fully removable 3D Max Dry interior with 5 layer cheek pads that are channeled for eyeglasses, ensuring a customizable fit, that is both comfortable and minimizes head buffeting at speed,” Kimes added. The Hornet DS is reportedly DOT and SNELL 2005 approved and retails for $456.99 (solids) and $482.99 (metallic finishes). “Modular helmets like the Shoei Multitec continue to be seen as a viable alternative to full-face helmets for some riders in the traditional sport bike category,” Kimes noted, adding, “Dealers are looking to carry strong key brands at each price point and this fact has given both Shoei and HJC great momentum for Helmet House.” Helmet sales for both Shoei and HJC are up this year, he divulged. “Dealers need to understand that consumers are often unsure of what they want and are often looking for guidance from dealership staff to find the best solution for their needs,” Kimes explained. He continued, “Dealership personnel need training in product knowledge and customer handling and need to be able to discuss the features and benefits of each helmet a shopper is considering and assist them accordingly.”

Shoei Safety Helmet - Helmet House
Phone: 800-421-7247
Fax: 800-338-5012
www.helmethouse.com

“We have three brand new models, the SIXSIXONE Flight Warp, SIXSIXONE Flight Icon and SIXSIXONE Charger,” stated Vice President and co-founder Gary McClelland. “The Warp and Icon are super lightweight carbon fiber/Kevlar/fiberglass composites that weigh less than four pounds,” he told us, adding, they feature a removable Savoy liner, include an extra visor, are SNELL 2005 rated and sell for $299.95. “The Charger helmet (pictured) is an economically priced helmet ($129.95) with the looks and features of high end helmets,” he said. Consumers are choosing quality and safety over price, McClelland noted. “We sell our high end helmets as fast as we can make them. The dealers like our helmet because it is a neutral brand and works with any apparel.” Sales are way up from last year, divulged McClelland, “We’ve had some great designs the last few seasons and the sell-through has been great.” Don’t just stock cheap helmets, he advised stores. “The market (and margins) are much better for quality helmets,” he explained. McClellan also recommended dealers not match their helmet brands with the apparel brands they keep in stock. “Pick one or two neutral brands and stock the colors and sizes a little deeper,” he added.

SIXSIXONE
Phone: 888-520-4888
Fax: 888-520-7477
www.sixsixone.com

The SparX S-07 and D-07 helmets feature a lightweight thermo composite shell design and include form-fitted colored cheek pads, in-visor anti-fog ventilation system, true ventilation channels for optimum circulation around the face, plus quick release tooless ratchet system and integrated earplug storage straps, described Senior Vice President Pat Lio. “Our helmets retail from $109.00-$139.00 and we offer a five year limited warranty,” he told us. Consumers are becoming more price conscious and they are looking for quality gear that is affordable, Lio explained. All of the company’s street helmets are reportedly shipped with a spare set of shield vents, ear plugs, reflective sticker, warranty card and crash policy, while all of its MX helmets are said to include a reflective sticker and warranty card, plus all junior MX helmets include a mouth guard for protection. 

SparX Helmets
Phone: 818-748-0008
Fax: 818-558-6340
www.sparxhelmets.com

New from VCAN Sports is the Skin “The Lid” line of helmets, which features lifestyle graphics, a lightweight fiberglass shell and SNELL approved certification, described Director of Sales/Marketing Jaime Ochoa. “Our sales are definitely up. We are doing a much better job of marketing our helmets,” said Ochoa, who added, “The market is becoming more aware of our outstanding price versus quality ratio. We are also continuously improving our innovation, quality and graphics.” Dealer/retailers need to know as much as they can about their region demographics, advised Ochoa.

VCAN Sports
Phone: 888-680-8226
Fax: 323-221-2800
www.vcansports.com

New from Wiki is the Wave 100 helmet, which includes a photochromatic dark smoke and anti-fog shield, informed President Steve Reed. “This shield represents the most sophisticated motorcycle shield technology available,” he explained. The Wave 100 features a carbon fiber, fiberglass shell, a removable/washable Coolmax liner, awesome Aloha graphics by Airtrix and weighs only three pounds, described Reed. The Wave 100 retails for $269.95 for solids and $299.95 for Aloha graphic, he said. “Dealers aren’t selling brands found on eBay at ridiculously low prices,” he noted, adding, “Consumers always look for comfort, style and features.”

Wiki
Phone: 877-411-9545
Fax: 815-346-3491
www.wikihelmets.com

“Our newest helmet is the NBX-Pro offroad helmet,” reported Vega Helmet spokesperson Jeanne DeMund. “The NBX-Pro has an aerodynamic fiberglass/Kevlar composite shell, ergonomic shoulder shape, flow-through ventilation and a plush, removable/washable, moisture wiking liner that will be upgraded to include our new Easy-Com speaker installation system in 2008,” she told us. This helmet will reportedly be available in two graphics: the Sidewinder (pictured) and the Pinstripe. The helmet reportedly retails for $109.00. “Both dealers and consumers are increasingly conscious of value: getting a quality helmet at a good price … a trend that is very positive for Vega,” she explained. DeMund told us although it has been a tough year for many retailers, the company’s sales are increasing in some areas, while holding steady in others. Shop carefully, compare the features and benefits, fit, finish and price so that you can offer an excellent helmet at a reasonable cost, DeMund advised.

Vega Helmet
Phone: 800-728-4898
Fax: 425-656-0683
www.vegahelmet.com

The latest helmet from Xpeed Helmets is the XCF-2000, available early spring 2008, noted J-Tech Corporation Director Eric Suh, who added, the XCF-2000 features a wind-tunnel tested, advanced carbon fiber composite shell that meets DOT standards, said Suh, who added, the helmet includes Xpeed ventilation system, two D-ring buckles, fully removable, comfortable liner and a fog free, scratch resistant shield. The helmet is offered in XS-XXL sizes. “The helmet market in the US is very competitive and getting more so due to the proliferation of brands at the mid-priced level,” noted Suh. “Most major helmet brands are providing good value and design but we see a trend of sales towards lower priced helmets, primarily those from China. We perceive that as a major threat and will be watching that closely. The upper end of the helmet market is a small but important segment,” he added. Sales have dropped in 2007 versus 2006, he divulged, due to the overall economic situation in the US. Suh said he believes dealers need to stock a range of brands that cover the major segments of what sells in their dealership. “In other words, if you are selling mostly sport bikes, you should make sure you have low, medium and higher priced sport bike helmet inventory,” he said. Suh concluded, “Also make sure you stock a selection of sizes, colors/graphics and helmet accessories. Be sure all of this is well merchandised.”

Xpeed Helmets - 
J-Tech America Corporation
Phone: 800-325-3673
Fax: 800-634-1888
www.xpeedhelmet.com

The Zeus Model 3000 is a lightweight, modular fiberglass helmet, with tooless, quick release shield, a removable/washable liner and is ECE/DOT approved, informed spokesperson Dave Floto, who added the helmet retails for $139.95. The trends he said he has noticed is that there are more features on helmets, like more venting, washable liners, etc. Sales are the same as last year, Floto told us, adding, “With companies offering extended terms to dealers, they are buying in larger quantities and dealers need to be careful, because if they buy large quantities, they are setting themselves up for obsolete stock because the helmets are changing so fast year to year. What is hot now, will be old news in six to nine months.”

Zeus Helmets
Phone: 705-812-1969
www.zeus-helmets.com

“Zox has developed a brand new flip-up helmet, the Genessis SVS that is equipped with the Solar Visor System,” stated Motovan Corporation’s Marketing Director Michael Paladino, who continued by saying, “Its new feature is a removable smoke solar visor, included with the helmet, which allows you to ride facing the sun.” The flip-up Genessis meets or exceeds DOT safety standards and includes multi-size cheek pads, Coolmax lining fabric, space for intercom headset, chin guard spoiler and an optically corrected polycarbonate shield, described Paladino. The MSRP for this helmet is between $199.99 USD to $239.99 USD, he added. “For MX enthusiasts, Zox offers the Air Attack helmet. Available in two shell sizes and seven inner sizes, this helmet is designed for riders who want performance, feature, style and comfort,” said Paladino. The Air Attack helmet is also reportedly equipped with the innovative Xtender system that protects the rider from dirt, mud, rocks and sunrays and it is said to be available in Mechanicalamity (matte or glossy) and Blaze (matte or glossy) graphics with a MSRP of $139.99 USD. “What is in demand now are added features that differentiate helmets without an increase in cost. These features need to enhance the enjoyment of the rider when riding his/her motorcycle,” explained Paladino. Sales are up because “the helmet market is growing in the price point segment where Zox is situated in,” he told us. Paladino concluded by saying, “Price is not parallel to quality any more. Just because brands are lowering their price points doesn’t mean the quality is inferior – these helmets are actually produced in new state-of-the-art manufacturing plants and meet all the necessary North American safety standards.”
Many of these companies recommended dealers stock a healthy supply of helmets in a variety of sizes and prices in order to ensure their customers walk away properly outfitted with what they need to protect their heads. We hope our helmet feature is helpful for when you need to decide which new helmets to order and we’d like to thank all of these companies for their participation in this month’s segment.

Zox Helmets 
www.zoxhelmets.com