Several years ago HJC launched a new helmet brand called RPHA, which is pronounced “arfa” and stands for Revolutionary Performance Helmet Advantage. While certainly not the most concise or elegant name, the RPHA line promised to offer premium-level helmets at reasonable prices. We’ve tested the RPHA Max modular and RPHA ST full-face helmets in previous issues (see ridermagazine.com), and they impressed us with their lightness, comfort, features and value.
HJC’s top-of-the-line full-face helmet is the RPHA 11 Pro, successor to the RPHA 10 (which debuted as the RPS-10, HJC’s first premium helmet). Its next-generation Premium Integrated Matrix (PIM) shell, made from a blend of carbon fiber, aramid, fiberglass and organic non-woven fabric and now called Advanced PIM Plus, helps reduce weight. Our medium RPHA 11 Pro weighs just 3 pounds, 2 ounces, a full 4 ounces lighter than the RPS-10 we tested in 2011. The shell also has a more aerodynamic shape and a rear spoiler for stability.
Designed to be worn on the track as well as the street, ventilation is excellent. The RPHA 11 Pro has two-position vents (open or closed) on the chinbar and forehead, as well as a pair of air scoop-style vents on the crown, which have seven-level adjustable airflow that’s controlled by rubber-covered dials that are easy to roll open or closed with gloved fingers. Channels within the EPS liner distribute airflow around the head, and the removable/washable/antibacterial MultiCool comfort liner wicks away moisture and dries quickly.
Visibility has been improved with a larger eyeport, and the RPHA 11 Pro comes with a clear 2D Flat-Racing Shield, a 2D Dark Smoke Shield and an anti-fog insert. HJC’s RapidFire II system makes shield changes quick and tool-free, and the center-locking mechanism makes it easy to open and close the shield with either hand. Convenience and safety features include an eyewear-friendly interior, recessed ear pockets that accommodate speakers, emergency quick-release cheek pads and reflective panels in the rear neck roll.
I’ve worn the HJC RPHA 11 Pro for months, on the street and track in a wide range of conditions, and it has earned a spot on my short list of favorite helmets because of its light weight, comfort and ease of use. It costs less than half of some other premium helmets, and comes with both clear and dark shields. DOT and ECE approved, the helmet has a 5-year warranty and is available in sizes XS-2XL. Prices are $399.99-$409.99 for solids and $449.99-$599.99 for graphics (add $5 for 2XL).
For more information, see your dealer or visit hjchelmets.com.
Among other “premium” helmets, I own a RPHA. For the money it’s a darn fine helmet, and I agree with the review. However, what is not mentioned here is customer support. My RPHA has a small defect that renders it useless (shield won’t stay up). Pictures were sent and the defect was immediately acknowledged; I was told the part would be sent immediately. Super! Now that’s customer service! Tick, tick, tick . . . five follow up emails and close to four months later still no part and no surprise- still can’t use the lid. Sure glad I had those other “premium” helmets around.
Just a postscript re: HJC Customer support. A day after I submitted the above post (August 22), I was contacted to say that I would quickly receive a replacement part so I could use the shield. Needless to say, I was impressed, and glad. Unfortunately, it never arrived! I contacted them again to ensure they had the correct address, was told it would be sent – still no working shield. I’d go as far as to argue that a facesheild that won’t do what it’s meant to do is not only inconvenient, it’s dangerous. Am I the only one who has experienced this problem, and this quality of support?
Okay, last post on this HJC service issue. After a ridiculously long time, I did receive the part promised by HJC customer service to replace the defective (weak?) part on my RPHA shield. To be fair, it appears the part was lost in the mail – took over a month for it to be delivered. Bottom line, HJC did what they said they’d do – can’t ask for much more . . . thanks.