HJC V90 Solid Grey

The HJC V90 Modular Helmet is a fresh face in the retro market for more reason than one. Not only is it HJC’s first foray into this segment of the market, but it is one of the first modular helmets we’ve come across. Touring modular helmets are a classic, and modular adventure helmets aren’t too far removed from this either, but a retro modular is certainly new and interesting and we’re excited to try it out on the road.

Another added bonus of the V90 is that it is coming in at a recommended retail price of 320 Euros, or 390 USD, which means that it is also one of the most budget friendly retro helmets currently available. This means that the HJC will be competing with the AGV X3000, Shoei Glamster, Arai Concept-X, Bell Bullitt Carbon, Bell Eliminator. So, let’s take a deep dive into those specs and performance.

 

Material

The HJC V90 Motorcycle Helmet features a full fiberglass composite shell offered in 2 outer shell sizes spanning XS – L and XL – XXL. While fiberglass is the main material of choice among most retro helmets thanks to its excellent strength and low weight, we were hoping for more than 2 shell sizes. This, and the fact the helmet is only P certified, are going to be where HJC have been able to save on costs.

The helmet comes with an intermediate oval fit and comes in weighing in at about 1550 grams, or 3lbs 7oz, which is actually very good for a modular helmet. It’s also coming in only 50 grams heavier than the Arai Concept-X, which is positive overall. Though it is coming in as the heaviest of our retro competitors, this is standard for modular helmets due to the added chin bar mechanism. But what extra features have HJC managed to pack inside?

 

Comfort

Inside, the helmet features a fully removable and washable, moisture wicking, and anti-bacterial liner, which is already a solid foundation. But what really helps the V90 stand out is the fact that not only does it include a glasses groove, but it is even prepared for the Smart HJC Bluetooth system. So, while the Concept-X includes speaker pockets, the V90 takes this a step further by allowing you to seamlessly fit the Smart system, which is definitely one way to bring retro helmet design into the 21st century.

To access the interior EPS, we first need to remove the inner padding. The cheek pads on either side are held in with a set of snaps and inserts, and it has a micro-metric chin strap, which also sets it apart from its mostly double D-ring competition. The crown pad is then held in with two snaps at the back and a set of inserts along the forehead, and it has a nice fabric suede feel to it. With everything out, the helmet features speaker pockets and the EPS grooves are very deep.

 

Visor

Moving onto the visor, the HJC helmet is coming with a classic bubble shield to really bring home that vintage look and it has the added benefit of giving you a great field of view. Though this style choice does come with the drawback that the visor is only anti-fog treated, and it does not come with a Pinlock. Nonetheless, it has a solid set of detentes, and you can open it up to a cracked position.  Lastly, the helmet includes a drop down sun visor operated by a slide on the side of the helmet.

To remove the visor, you’re going to need a screwdriver or a coin first of all. This is a retro helmet after all. Then you simply unscrew the two screws on either side and then lift off the side panels as well. With those off, you can then lift of the visor and replacing it is just as easy since you just mount it on the helmet, place the screws and side panels back into place, and then close everything up once more.

 

Ventilation

For ventilation, the V90 features a set of vents that fully complement the helmet’s classic styling. This means that there is a single always open vent in the chin and a sleek, adjustable vent in the brow. Hot air then escapes out the rear of the helmet through a metal grill covered exhaust.

 

Summary

The HJC V90 is certainly a memorable retro entry. By bringing solid HJC design, modular touring features, and a retro design, we definitely have an interesting helmet with an even more interesting set of results.

To learn more about the HJC V90, make sure to check out our full HJC V90 Review and Road Test Video on our YouTube channel. Make sure to subscribe as well to keep up to date on our latest Champion Data Road Tests where we bring you the facts.