Bravo21's stats
- Review count5
- Helpfulness votes10
- First reviewSeptember 19, 2011
- Last reviewMarch 9, 2013
- Featured reviews0
- Average rating5
Reviews comments
- Review comment count0
- Helpfulness votes0
- First review commentNone
- Last review commentNone
- Featured review comments0
- Question count1
- Helpfulness votes0
- First questionJanuary 13, 2013
- Last questionJanuary 13, 2013
- Featured questions0
- Answer count2
- Helpfulness votes0
- First answerMarch 9, 2013
- Last answerMarch 9, 2013
- Featured answers0
- Best answers0
Bravo21's Reviews
Olympia Ranger 3 Over Pants Designed to coordinate with the AST jacket, th Olympia Ranger 3 Pant can be worn as a stand alone riding pant or as a full over pant. Foul weather rides are never a problem as double waterproof protection is offered through Rangers coated Cordura shell and waterproof/breathable seam sealed membrane. Zippered front pockets and two oversized waterproof cargo pockets offer plenty of extra storage for personal items. Adjustable knee armor positions and EZ hem bottoms help riders achieve a customized fit. As temperatures drop, youll stay toasty by adding Rangers Thermolite insulated liner pant that double as great looking, stand alone sportswear. Features Outer shell constructed in coated 500 and 2000 denier Cordura fabric Waterproof/breathable membrane adds double waterproof protection Removable Insulated liner pant Sturdy wind and water resistant rip stop nylon shell, Thermolite insulation, belt loop waist, full side leg zippers and four storage pockets. Full side leg zippers Storm placket front fly detail Removable and adjustable height CE Motion Flex armor at knees Cool mesh airflow lining Removable EVA compression foam at hips Custom Fit detailing at waist and bottom hem 3M Scotchlite reflective piping side leg detail Relaxed tailored fit 6 storage pockets 8 connecting zipper for jackets
Overall rating
Heavy Duty Adventure pant.
PostedMarch 9, 2013
Bang for the Buck
5
/
5
Style
5
/
5
Comfort
4
/
5
Protection & Durability
5
/
5
Features
5
/
5
Fit
Small
Large
I just received a pair of Ranger 3 pants, which I purchased from my favorite gear source, Revzilla. I bought these to take my riding season further into the late fall, winter, and early spring and I feel certain I made the right choice. They certainly are heavy duty. The cargo pockets are perfectly executed. There are no vents or through pockets, which is not a criticism - they are waterproof pants, after all. The liner pants will indeed function as stand alone destination pants and even include a thin web belt.
Many say the Ranger 3 runs small. I think that's because Olympia uses the term "Over Pant" in the product description, which is a misnomer, in my opinion. These pants are sized like traditional motorcycle pants. In fact, I found the fit to be consistent with my Airglide 3 pants, which are not marketed as "over pants". I’m a 34/35” waist at the moment, on my way down to 34. I ordered size 34's, same as my Airglides. With the liners in, even over a pair of thermals or Under Armor, the Rangers are quite comfortable. The legs are not baggy and the knee armor is positioned in the right place. With the liners out I can wear them as over-pants over jeans. They are pretty snug but not miserably so. If I remove the hip pads, they are even better. When I go for day rides or trips, I don’t wear jeans or other street pants anyway – I wear my motorcycle pants as, well, motorcycle pants. If I’m going to use them as over-pants it will only be for short trips in bad weather to specific destinations, like going across town to a friend's house for the day or my short, 7 mile commute to work. I can live with a snug fit during foul weather for short distances. Like my Airglides, I think a 36 would have been too sloppy all around.
I went for a 160+ mile day ride in sunny, 48 degree weather, at consistent 60-80mph speeds with just the outer shell over a pair of Under Armor pants. I was little cool but no where near cold. If I had used the pant liners I would have been perfectly toasty. Every review I've read celebrates how waterproof they are, so I have no reason to fear they won’t be. I’m looking forward to putting them to the ultimate test during a 3 week trip in Alaska in the next year or two.
Bottom line: If you want to use them specifically as insulated over pants, buy a size up. If you want the best value out there for a fitted, foul weather motorcycle pant, buy your size.
Rides: 2008 Suzuki DL650 V-Strom
Yes, I recommend this product.
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Shoei GT Air Helmet - Solid Colors SHOEI introduces the GT-Air, a lightweight full-face helmet with improved ventilation, a fully removable noise-reducing interior, a built-in sun visor and a distinctively stylish shell that is as good looking as it is integral to its performance while on the road. Aerodynamic Shell Design Aerodynamic properties are maximized through extensive wind tunnel and professional riders feedback Multi-Piece EPS liner enhances impact absorption and ventilation Three shell and four EPS liner sizes provide increased fit options that help to comfortably fit most head sizes Molded air spoiler reduces drag and lift, as well as diminishes pressure on the riders neck while riding at speed Sun Shield Visor System Built-in QSV-1 sun shield gives riders instant relief from sun glare in one quick motion Visor meets ANSI Z80.3-2010 standard for non-prescription eyeglasses Large and easy to reach switch activates the 3D injection-molded inner sun shield Distortion-free shield blocks 99 of harmful UV rays Forehead area of the outer shell is raised slightly to accommodate the internal sun shield, helping allow for the integrity of the helmets inner EPS liner to remain intact Ventilation System Upper Air Intake Vent is positioned to maximize air volume into the helmet interior Large upper intake vent positioned to maximize performance behind wind screens Easy to operate large lower intake vent Lower air intake/defroster vent reduces shield fogging and increases ventilation The rear/neck vents allow for effective air exhaust Breath guard and chin curtain included Advanced Integrated Matrix (AIM) High performance fiber materials are combined with elastic organic fibers to create a shell structure that is ultra-lightweight, rigid and resilient Interior System 3-D Max-Dry center pad and multi-layered, polyurethane foam cheek pads Chin curtain prevents wind entry and reduces noise Cheek pads are replaceable or removable for maintenance Eyeglass compatible interior E.Q.R.S. (Emergency Quick-Release System) allows emergency medical personnel to easily remove the cheek pads from the helmet of a rider involved in an accident, in turn making the helmet more easily removable Standard Chin-Strap Clip Neatly secures chin strap CNS-1 Shield System The CNS-1, three-dimensionally curved shield is both wider and taller than the CX-1V it replaces Includes new redesigned Pinlock Anti-Fog Lens for more coverage of the CNS-1 shield Dual-Ridge window bead increases contact with the shield to reduce wind noise Scratch-resistant shield coating 99.9 protection from harmful UV AB rays Safety Certification DOT-218 Note Due to manufacturer restrictions, Shoei products can only be shipped to addresses within the United States
Overall rating
Pricey but worht it.
PostedFebruary 26, 2013
Bang for the Buck
5
/
5
Style
5
/
5
Comfort
4
/
5
Protection & Durability
5
/
5
Air Flow
5
/
5
Features
5
/
5
Fit
Small
Large
Noise Level
Quiet
Loud
Weight
Light
Heavy
Shape
Narrow
Round
Vision
Narrow
Wide
I just received one of the brand new Shoei GT Air helmets from a pre-order with Revzilla - another fast, flawless transaction, by the way. This will be the 3rd Shoei helmet I've owned, the other two being the Hornet dual sport and RF-1100. I've tried on the Qwest and Neotec several times, so I can speak to the fit comparison to them as well. For this review, I was able to go on a solid 30 minute ride in this helmet at sustained speeds up to 70mph.
Right out of the box, the finish quality is everything we've come to expect from Shoei. My helmet is solid white and the paint and clear coat are flawless. I didn’t put the GT Air on a scale but I’d guess it’s about the same weight as the RF-1100. The breath deflector and pinlock lens are included but separate. You’ll want to install both items because like the other Shoei’s I’ve owned the GT Air fogs up easily, if not instantly. The chin curtain is pre-installed and is thicker than other Shoei curtains. It feels like it has a thin layer of foam in between the fabric layers, which I think helps make this a very quiet helmet. You'll get the typical Shoei helmet bag, manuals and decals but also included is a curious little bottle containing silicone oil. This is intended for use on the face shield gasket to promote a better seal. I'm interested to see how that works over time.
The liner is plush and padded on the sides but a little rough on top (I'm bald, FWIW#, almost like a soft scouring pad. It’s not uncomfortable, just noticeable. It's the same fabric used on the crown of the liner in my Hornet, which softened up with use. The vents and face shield operate with strong, positive response, though I wish the lowest detent of the shield was a bit lower. The opening is wide, providing excellent periphery vision. I found the “cracked” position to be too small to clear the helmet and my glasses from fog. That’s not a mark against this helmet, just my preference. I particularly like that the GT-Air has a much simplified vent system with one big, easy to find/operate front intake and one equally easy rear exhaust, as opposed to the RF-1100's six, small vents #2 front and 4 rear#. This makes opening and closing all the venting much easier while riding. I ride a V-strom with a Givi windscreen on an adjustable MadStad bracket. The vents on the RF-1100 were just a little too low on the forehead to catch much air without adjusting the windscreen down. The top vent on the GT-Air fixes that issue for me. Regardless of the windscreen position, I get a ton of air through those big vent and exhaust holes on top.
The star attraction to this helmet is the internal sun visor. I can testify that it lives up to the hype. The slide mechanism functions very smoothly and positively, is easy to find #even with thick, winter gloves), distortion-free, dark, and drops down further than other internal shades, fully shielding the eyes. I wear glasses and the internal visor was one of the big reasons I bought this helmet. I'm happy to report that my glasses slip very will into the helmet and to not interfere with the sun visor. I have a Sena Bluetooth system in my helmet, which sits just below and well clear of the visor slide.
FIT: First of all, it's true to Shoei sizing. I'm a medium in every other Shoei helmet and I'm a medium in the GT Air. However, not all Shoei helmets fit the same. For me, the Qwest is just too roomy around the top and sides of my head. I can almost rotate it forward and off my head. A size smaller is hard to get on and very painful against my forehead. The hornet fits my head snug and secure all around. The RF-1100 is an excellent fitting helmet as well, slightly less snug than the Hornet on me and easier to put on and take off. I was considering buying the next larger size of cheek pads for the RF-1100 before the GT Air was announced.
I've heard it said that the fit of the GT Air is similar to the new Neotec. I've tried on the Neotec at a local retailer and I would say that's probably a fair comparison around the crown of the head. Both are what I consider solidly intermediate oval. However, it's an unfair comparison around the cheeks, chin and lower part of the head. A full-face helmet is by design stiffer around the lower portion of the shell and simply has more area for larger, longer cheek pads and more bolster around the neck. And cheek pads are what this helmet has in abundance. They are thicker out of the box than those in the Hornet, RF-1100, or Qwest. This can make the GT Air feel pretty tight when you first go to put it on. In fact, it's definitely more work to get on than the RF-1100 or Hornet. The fit is very snug but not uncomfortable. I've never been certain what "race fit" is but I have to think the fit of the GT Air approaches it.
The result of the thicker cheek pads, padded liner, and padded chin curtain is a quieter helmet. I think it’s significantly more quiet than the RF-1100, especially at speeds below 55mph. At 60mph and higher, no helmet is quiet enough to wear without earplugs, IMO and the GT is no exception. Absent from this helmet however, is any whistling through the vents or a cracked open face shield.
Like my other Shoei's, I expect the GT Air to have a break-in period, eventually softening a bit and conforming more to my head. All in all, I’m extremely impressed and pleased with the GT. It’s a pricy helmet, but I think in this situation, you are getting what you are paying for: a high quality, safe, feature-packed helmet that works extremely well. And it looks great too.
Dave Clark
Spokane, WA
‘08 DL650 V-Strom
Spokane, WA
‘08 DL650 V-Strom
Yes, I recommend this product.
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Givi E450 Simply Monolock Topcase Simply E450 is one of the most spacious cases in the Monolock range (with 45 liters maximum capacity). Equipped with a wide reflector it is characterized by its modern design and by its proven automatic opening/detaching system, by simply turning the key and a push of the buttonyou can open the case or detach it from its carrier. 12.75 X 16.5 X 19 45 liters Maxiuum load is 6.6 lbs All monolock cases include universal plates
Overall rating
Ample, affordable top case.
PostedApril 3, 2012
Bang for the Buck
5
/
5
Ease of Install
5
/
5
Performance
4
/
5
Finish
4
/
5
Durability
4
/
5
I already had a 30L Givi monolock case on my Vstrom but wanted a little more space. Instead of buying a larger monokey case, which uses a different mounting plate, I decided to get the largest monolock case available. That way, I could switch back and forth as needed between the larger and smaller cases. The 45L E450 is not quite the largest monolock but it is the best bang for the buck, IMO. The E470 is slightly larger (47L) but the extra 2 liters is in the shape of the lid - they use the same lower 1/2. I didn't feel 2 extra liters was worth an extra $45. The E450 is sturdy and roomy enough to hold my Shoei RF1100, Olympia Moab jacket and a few other smaller items.
I purchased the basic matte black version, which is durable and hard-wearing. The red plastic pieces are not reflectors, however. They are lenses. You can add reflective material behind them or purchase a separate lighting kit. I already have additional lighting on the back of my bike, so I simply added some reflective decals to the back of the case. Also, the silver/grey trim on the bottom 1/2 are optional stickers that come with the case.
My only concern so far is the stiffness of the latch mechanism. Their is a push-to-latch tab, which can be a bit of a trick to latch sometimes. I suspect that this is because the case is brand new. I suspect it will latch more easily as time passes and I use it more. One thing is certain: when it's latched, it's secure.
I found the case a little bit cheaper on a couple of other sites, so I decided to test Revzilla's price match policy. True to their word (as always) the Revzilla team matched the competitor's price and let me use my remaining $5 in Zilla cash as well. You guys rock.
Rides: 2008 Suzuki DL650 V-Strom
Yes, I recommend this product.
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Givi D260ST Windscreen for Suzuki V-Strom DL650 / DL1000 Fits DL650 2004-2011 DL1000 2002-2011 Features Clear 22.5H x 18W inches 7.09 inches higher than stock windscreen
Overall rating
Best V-Strom Windshield, hands down.
PostedDecember 19, 2011
Bang for the Buck
5
/
5
Ease of Install
5
/
5
Performance
5
/
5
Finish
5
/
5
My used Vstrom came with a MadStad bracket and the stock windshield, which was OK but never really adequate to fully eliminate the buffeting problem inherent to ther Vstrom. My brother also has a Vstrom but his is equipped with the Givi windshield. A quick ride on his bike showed me what I was missing, namely the wind buffeting!
I also think it is the best looking windshield for the bike, better looking than the stock shield, for sure. The Givi shield follows the natural shape of the front cowling and is wider than the stock shield. By the way, the Revzilla picture is an older stock photo. The shield that I received does not have the rubber trim. The edge is polished acrylic. It's a drop-fit onto either the stock bracket or a MadStad bracket. The Revzilla price was the best I could find on the web and the drop-shipping from Givi USA was FAST. If you own a Vstrom, this is the windshield you want and Revzilla's where you want to buy it!
Rides: 2003 Kawasaki KL250 Super Sherpa
Yes, I recommend this product.
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Olympia Airglide 3 Jacket
Olympia Airglide 3 Jacket Enhanced function and versatility are the key elements offered in our new Airglide 3 jacket. Heat, wind, rain and cold are no match for this cutting edge style. Constructed in authentic Dupont Cordura with ballistic nylon mesh panels, this jacket offers maximum airflow with superior abrasion resistance. For added safety, the Airglide offers double rows of 3M Scotchlite piping at the chest, back and sleeves. Equipped with a sporty two stage, wind and waterproof, Thermolite insulated liner jacket, this style delivers the ultimate in multi season riding comfort. Features Outer shell constructed in 500 denier Dupont Cordura with ballistic airflow mesh panels Waterproof, Thermolite insulated two stage liner jacket Removable CE approved Motion Flexarmor at elbows and shoulders Removable CE approved Motion Flexarticulated back protector Cool mesh airflow lining Custom Fit detailing at collar, cuffs,elbows and waist Comfort neoprene framed collar 3M Scotchlite reflective piping atfront, sides and back 8 connecting zipper for pants Five storage pockets
Overall rating
Best full 3-season jacket you can buy. Period.
PostedSeptember 19, 2011
Bang for the Buck
5
/
5
Style
5
/
5
Comfort
5
/
5
Protection & Durability
5
/
5
Air Flow
5
/
5
Features
5
/
5
I bought this jack in March and have worn it through the spring and summer and am now heading into fall. I've worn it on cold, 40 degree mornings, through pounding spring rains, and on hot, 90+ degree summer days, all on a naked dualsport bike. This jacket has performed as-promised in all those situations. With the wind/rain and thermal liners in, I was toasty warm on those 40 degree morning rides to work. I was equally warm and dry through heavy rain. As spring gave way to summer, the flexibility of removing the liners allowed me to tailor the jacket to the day's weather. With both liners out, I was plenty cool riding in-town on a 95 degree day with just a t-shirt underneath - this jacket does indeed flow a ton of air.
I bought the Neon Yellow version, which is a sharp-looking piece that does get people's attention. On an all black bike, wearing a black helmet, I wanted a jacket that would stand out and this one does. I also love that in addition to the elbow and shoulder armor, it came with a full CE rated back armor.
Really, the only quips I could make about this jacket are minor: the cell phone pocket is too small for the type of phones most people carry today. Smart phones like iPhones and droids will not fit. The only this I would change it the velcro tab for the collar. When folded in on my yellow jacket, it gets very dirty from the skin oils on my neck. If it was black neoprene like the inside of the collar it would be perfect.
Rides: 2003 Kawasaki KL250 Super Sherpa
Yes, I recommend this product.
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Bravo21's Review Comments
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Bravo21's Questions
Shoei GT Air Helmet - Solid Colors SHOEI introduces the GT-Air, a lightweight full-face helmet with improved ventilation, a fully removable noise-reducing interior, a built-in sun visor and a distinctively stylish shell that is as good looking as it is integral to its performance while on the road. Aerodynamic Shell Design Aerodynamic properties are maximized through extensive wind tunnel and professional riders feedback Multi-Piece EPS liner enhances impact absorption and ventilation Three shell and four EPS liner sizes provide increased fit options that help to comfortably fit most head sizes Molded air spoiler reduces drag and lift, as well as diminishes pressure on the riders neck while riding at speed Sun Shield Visor System Built-in QSV-1 sun shield gives riders instant relief from sun glare in one quick motion Visor meets ANSI Z80.3-2010 standard for non-prescription eyeglasses Large and easy to reach switch activates the 3D injection-molded inner sun shield Distortion-free shield blocks 99 of harmful UV rays Forehead area of the outer shell is raised slightly to accommodate the internal sun shield, helping allow for the integrity of the helmets inner EPS liner to remain intact Ventilation System Upper Air Intake Vent is positioned to maximize air volume into the helmet interior Large upper intake vent positioned to maximize performance behind wind screens Easy to operate large lower intake vent Lower air intake/defroster vent reduces shield fogging and increases ventilation The rear/neck vents allow for effective air exhaust Breath guard and chin curtain included Advanced Integrated Matrix (AIM) High performance fiber materials are combined with elastic organic fibers to create a shell structure that is ultra-lightweight, rigid and resilient Interior System 3-D Max-Dry center pad and multi-layered, polyurethane foam cheek pads Chin curtain prevents wind entry and reduces noise Cheek pads are replaceable or removable for maintenance Eyeglass compatible interior E.Q.R.S. (Emergency Quick-Release System) allows emergency medical personnel to easily remove the cheek pads from the helmet of a rider involved in an accident, in turn making the helmet more easily removable Standard Chin-Strap Clip Neatly secures chin strap CNS-1 Shield System The CNS-1, three-dimensionally curved shield is both wider and taller than the CX-1V it replaces Includes new redesigned Pinlock Anti-Fog Lens for more coverage of the CNS-1 shield Dual-Ridge window bead increases contact with the shield to reduce wind noise Scratch-resistant shield coating 99.9 protection from harmful UV AB rays Safety Certification DOT-218 Note Due to manufacturer restrictions, Shoei products can only be shipped to addresses within the United States
Safety Rating?
The review video indicates the new Shoei GT Air helmet is only DOT rated. No Snell rating? Why? Seems odd for a Shoei full-face helmet. The Snell rating, combined with their high quality, is one of their strong selling points.
5 months ago
Bravo21's Answers
Givi D260ST Windscreen for Suzuki V-Strom DL650 / DL1000 Fits DL650 2004-2011 DL1000 2002-2011 Features Clear 22.5H x 18W inches 7.09 inches higher than stock windscreen
I have a 2011 vstrom DL 650 and have a madstad bracket installed. Would this windshield work for me?
Shoei GT Air Helmet - Solid Colors SHOEI introduces the GT-Air, a lightweight full-face helmet with improved ventilation, a fully removable noise-reducing interior, a built-in sun visor and a distinctively stylish shell that is as good looking as it is integral to its performance while on the road. Aerodynamic Shell Design Aerodynamic properties are maximized through extensive wind tunnel and professional riders feedback Multi-Piece EPS liner enhances impact absorption and ventilation Three shell and four EPS liner sizes provide increased fit options that help to comfortably fit most head sizes Molded air spoiler reduces drag and lift, as well as diminishes pressure on the riders neck while riding at speed Sun Shield Visor System Built-in QSV-1 sun shield gives riders instant relief from sun glare in one quick motion Visor meets ANSI Z80.3-2010 standard for non-prescription eyeglasses Large and easy to reach switch activates the 3D injection-molded inner sun shield Distortion-free shield blocks 99 of harmful UV rays Forehead area of the outer shell is raised slightly to accommodate the internal sun shield, helping allow for the integrity of the helmets inner EPS liner to remain intact Ventilation System Upper Air Intake Vent is positioned to maximize air volume into the helmet interior Large upper intake vent positioned to maximize performance behind wind screens Easy to operate large lower intake vent Lower air intake/defroster vent reduces shield fogging and increases ventilation The rear/neck vents allow for effective air exhaust Breath guard and chin curtain included Advanced Integrated Matrix (AIM) High performance fiber materials are combined with elastic organic fibers to create a shell structure that is ultra-lightweight, rigid and resilient Interior System 3-D Max-Dry center pad and multi-layered, polyurethane foam cheek pads Chin curtain prevents wind entry and reduces noise Cheek pads are replaceable or removable for maintenance Eyeglass compatible interior E.Q.R.S. (Emergency Quick-Release System) allows emergency medical personnel to easily remove the cheek pads from the helmet of a rider involved in an accident, in turn making the helmet more easily removable Standard Chin-Strap Clip Neatly secures chin strap CNS-1 Shield System The CNS-1, three-dimensionally curved shield is both wider and taller than the CX-1V it replaces Includes new redesigned Pinlock Anti-Fog Lens for more coverage of the CNS-1 shield Dual-Ridge window bead increases contact with the shield to reduce wind noise Scratch-resistant shield coating 99.9 protection from harmful UV AB rays Safety Certification DOT-218 Note Due to manufacturer restrictions, Shoei products can only be shipped to addresses within the United States