HJC IS-Max 2 Helmet Review at RevZilla.com

[@scotthudson4188]

Got hit and went down in mine visor scars and helmet scars...My face is fine(hurt but that's it) I recommend it

[@pinkiewerewolf]

I just bought one of these from my local H-D dealership to replace my very old Shoei Multitech and RF1000. I was trying to run speaker wires and the insides gave up the ghost on me. I rode with it today and I'm digging it, also loving the inner visor. The helmet seems as quiet as the Multitech and we had gusting winds today. The main reason I'm posting is fitment. All of my Shoei helmets, an older HJC half helmet and an old skid lid were all size Small. This helmet fits me in a Large. I'm recommending this helmet on an intial basis.

[@8Rider6]

Just tried this on at a local shop and will probably get one. It fits very well, unlike my previous HJC. There aren't enough flip up/modular helmets on the market with pinlock, internal sun shield, and friendly with aftermarket bluetooth. I really wish the Nolan N44 was flip up, had pinlock, and was aftermarket BT friendly.

[@paulterry4634]

Bought this helmet, been using for about 2 weeks. Good fit, great quality on materials and workmanship (fit and finish). Quietest helmet I've owned, but have never used the super premium brands. Disappointed it didn't come w/ chin curtain, but ordered separate and installed easily. My biggest complaint is that is wants to fog like crazy! I know I can add the pinlock, but it really is bad. I've used $69 helmets that weren't this bad.

[@yzfpsycho]

Just ordered one for myself. I must say I really appreciate the very well thought out reviews, with comparisons and a detailed description of the features, along with some bonus tips. Your reviews are far more useful than any of the other product reviews on other channels. Keep up the good work! 👍

[@turbomt385]

Just received my new IS Max 2. Fit is perfect and the quality is excellent. Love it. Thank you revzilla.

[@RevZilla]

Turbo MT YESSS! Congrats on your new lid! -Hi-Viz Brian

[@navyh-53vet13]

I've seen nothing but good reviews on the IS Max 2 helmet. You've sold me, ordered mine yesterday from Revzilla. Thanks for the great review video and service.

[@navyh-53vet13]

Could not get the ISmax 2 to fit correctly. Ended up with a Bell modular helmet. So far i like it.

[@hANNAbONE]

Anthony, I'm trying to figure out what you said in the first 2 seconds of this clip. What the hec...?

[@RevZilla]

Watch it over and over until it makes sense. Or adjust the speed setting under the settings icon haha. -DrewZilla

[@kevinlambright6723]

Just picked one up today, vents overhead work great, not much into the internal sun visor but work well over glasses. Noise is not bad on the ride home, about thirty miles and overall a better fitting helmet to my older CL helmet

[@danielmalone3551]

Great helmet except for the button that lowers the sun visor. It's weak and mine broke off after 2 months. I glued it back on with super glue and it didn't hold. Next I used JB Weld. So far so good. I noticed that HJC changed the sun visor mechanism on the RPHA-90 to one like the one on the Schuberth C3 Pro.

[@mummyhuihui]

This is extremely comfortable (size, ventilation, functionality,) but still a lil heavy for me tho. I think I just might need stronger neck muscles.

[@theshacall]

+mummyhuihui start giving head then (O)^(O)

[@carmelorafaeldtansengco1462]

Try the Sy-Max III or RPHA-Max. A big jump in price though.

[@gurveersingh3358]

This is an absolute brilliant in detail HJC modular review. Anthony thanks a million. Because of you I own the IS Max II.

[@misguidedmammal]

Going helmet shopping today. This one and the Scorpion 900x are on my list so far to replace my old HJC CL-Max. Hopefully either of them will be quieter lol

[@MMilewski78]

I both this one in UK recently (Dova Red). It came with a chin guard and a pinlock included. Overall is a great helmet.

[@petecurran3995]

Nice 1, Anthony. Just bought one UK side, current spec has chin curtain and pinlock insert included, though store agent says HJC will discontinue the 'free' insert. 👍🏻

[@greatcesarsghost]

A friend bought one he did not like it .. to much of a hassle to repack return so he gave it to me .. it’s not a scorpion but I accepted it .. the fit was ok had the pin lock shield .. the front chin part that lifts felt real cheap from the inside u can see the inner plastic of helmet and it’s kinda noisy and I can feel air leaks inside so it not air tight !! The anti fog works great .. don’t like the one side tab to pull up and down face shield it closes lop sided unless u bring it down with your whole palm over center of face shield then it snaps shut evenly.. it just feels weird my scorpion had a very firm hold of my head real sturdy feel to me nothing feels like a scorpion 🦂 I have 3 and I wear them in a rotating manner .. so to me the HJC is a ok helmet not my first choice but it was a gift and I do wear it on and off but my scorpions come first can’t beat fit and new helmet smell ( yes ) they still have that new smell ....

[@deepsouthNZ]

thinking of getting this in hi vis looks a great helmet for the price

[@Tricity_155]

Anthony, my humble opinion is .. You are, hands down, the best accessories presenter i have ever seen. I am watching you since 2009 and i can say that you are fast, accurate and detailed. Congratulations for being steady on your presentations all these years. I repeat , this is not a compliment, it is just my humble opinionthat i wanted to share in public.

[@jgunther3398]

Why is there nothing on the C91 yet? It looks almost like a IS-Max 2 reissue to me.

[@kennytinker6480]

is there a replacement sun visor with polarization for real good shaded colors and visability?

[@RevZilla]

There isn't anything with polarization, but you can get tinted and mirrored face shields for it. -DrewZilla *www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/hjc-hj-17-pinlock-ready-face-shield

[@sugarnads]

Polarising screws with seeing your instruments. Drives me nuts,

[@nathanbarnard8045]

I measured my head And it’s at 22.5 inches. What size would you recommend for this helmet?

[@micky1thousand176]

What size did you end up with? I measured my head at 23½", and according to a chart at the Cycle Center I should have gotten a Large. Nope.... a large wouldn't even go over my head. After trying on many sizes and brands, I ended up with this model in 2X large.

[@jvera718]

Hi, does anyone know if they sell a dark visor for this helmet? If so what’s the part number? Thanks

[@wrenchmfc206]

I have a white 4XL with Sena 20S installed. Good Helmet. Hard to find a helmet that fits my large head. PRO Good helmet for a Good Price Good Quality Looks Okay All buttons work well with Gloves A lot of air so cooler in Florida heat Does not fog up in the Florida wet CON Drop down smoke sun shield and outside clear shield are not great for optical clarity (Fair) Noisy than higher quality helmets Easy to install a Sena 20 S No chin wind guard so not great for noise, water, for cold weather OVERALL Very Happy I had this helmet ... but given my 4XL size head there are few / no High Quality helmets that seem to fit me

[@MyYTwatcher]

I need 5XL for my head :-( There is basically nothing you can choose from. I like the helmet, but it is quite noisy. But if you big head, then this is probably the best choice.

[@blackshep8988]

Cool I just found one of these in mint condition in the bag on the side of the highway

[@Propapanda0213]

Seriously??? Lol

[@blackshep8988]

@@Propapanda0213 yes sold it on Craigslist with the mini bike

[@mattmccormick853]

My biggest problem with this helmet if you get caught in rain the visor on mine leaks

[@ernstig1]

I've had 2. Never had that problem.. maybe it was faulty?

[@epicbtu]

Great review! How is the wind noise compared to the Bell Revovler Evo Modular helmet? The less the better and that's where my money is going.

[@RevZilla]

The Bell was known to be a bit loud, and while this isn't the quietest helmet, most find it to be quieter than the Revolver EVO. Of course, we always recommend wearing earplugs with any helmet. -DrewZilla

[@tomwhit1982]

Great review! Got one today replacing my 10 year old AGV demon top eek...

[@Oneindig318]

do hjc helmets fit smaller then indicated? i am an L on shoei fullface models, but when i tried this on in size L it was seriously uncomfortable, tried the XL wich was way better, but being L on shoei made me wonder if maybe that XL will be to wide after a while since i tried on one with fresh interior all around. in the market for a modular that wont break my bank :)

[@RevZilla]

Oneindig318 Some HJCs like the RPHA and FG models have a more condensed size chart, but the IS-Max 2 uses standard sizing intervals and runs true to size. The difference is that the IS-Max 2 is a round oval shape, whereas most Shoeis have a more intermediate oval shape. If you can afford it, get the Scorpion EXO-GT3000. If that's too much, look at the Scorpion EXO-900X, as they're similar to Shoei's shape. -DrewZilla *www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/scorpion-exo-gt3000-helmet *www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/scorpion-exo-900x-helmet-solid

[@Oneindig318]

RevZilla awesome, thanks for your response! ill go check those out, a good fit is worth a few extra coins in most cases, i dont really have a set price, although models like the c3 or neotec i would consider bankbreakers at this time ;)

[@christineanderson5621]

I can wear a youth helmet. In adult I've always been small or x-small but just went with a medium in this helmet. I tried on one in small size and was told my cheeks looked very smooshed and uncomfortable. This is the only helmet so far I've gone that big in.

[@stackumz]

went to cycle gear for mine. (sorry dont trust sizing online with a fat head) first full helmet. had a skull bucket up until today. it's nice, I can hear myself talk 😂

[@RevZilla]

No worries!

[@admiralbeez8143]

Is the sun visor switch on the top water proof? Seems like a place where rain (and dust) can enter.

[@RevZilla]

No, it isn't specifically waterproof, but it still does a pretty good job of keeping water out while riding. You might consider a modular helmet with a sun visor lever on the side of the helmet for better water resistance. Take a look at the Scorpion EXO-GT920. -DrewZilla *www.revzilla.com/scorpion-exo-gt920-helmets

[@Jelly1021Bean]

Picked up my Matt black one yesterday and have fallen in love!!! Just looking at Bluetooth intercoms and was looking for one that is good quality but doesn't break the bank! Any suggestions?

[@RevZilla]

Jelly1021Bean I recommend the Sena SMH5 and Sena 3S-B. -DrewZilla *www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/sena-smh5-bluetooth-headset *www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/sena-3s-b-bluetooth-headset-boom-microphone

[@Frip36]

How would this helmet's vision be for a cruiser style bike? Is it strictly for crouching riding style? If not ok, can you recommend a modular helmet that would go well with a cruiser? Thanks. Great reviews.

[@RevZilla]

This helmet is actually ideal for an upright riding position like that of a cruiser or tourer. -DrewZilla *www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/hjc-is-max-2-helmet-solid

[@Ironhandjohn]

I bought this helmet to wear while riding my Road King. it looks and feels really good, and is decently quiet, too.

[@Fastliner8]

Safety wise. Shuberth c4 or this hjc? I have the c3 pro and got pressure points. I like modular due to wearing glasses. Safety is a big deal for me but i dont feel like spending c4 money unless it is justifyed

[@RevZilla]

The IS-Max 2 is plenty safe, so I'd save the money. -DrewZilla

[@diesel094]

Is there any way I can change the face shield? If I buy a HJC IS-max face shield will it fit on my HJC IS-max-II? Thanks

[@RevZilla]

+diesel094 Yes, you can change the face shield. Both the older IS-Max and IS-Max II use the same HJ-17 shields. -DrewZilla *www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/hjc-hj-17-pinlock-ready-face-shield

[@gazzagazza1000]

hi just got my new hjc is max 2 found that at hi speed the wind noise inside was quite hi stopped to bye ear plugs have you that befor. ex review

[@RevZilla]

gazzagazza1000 We find the IS-Max 2 to be average for wind noise, though wind noise is affected by helmet fit, your bike, and your riding position. We always recommend wearing ear plugs for hearing protection. -DrewZilla

[@digitalsignalx]

In the market for first time buyer, and saw one of these used. Do you measure your head size including the earbuds for audio?

[@RevZilla]

Your head size does not include your ears at all. You measure around the crown of your head, which is just above the ears. There is generally enough space in this helmet for small earbuds. -DrewZilla

[@RafaelLucasBLuooDz]

RevZilla Make a vídeo about the Arai Rabat 2014.

Hi RevZilla. Thanks for the great review. If you have to choose one between AGV Numo Evo/Compact (in Europe) and HJC IS-MAX II what will be your pick? And sorry for my english ;-)

[@RevZilla]

+Radek “Śruba” K. The IS-Max 2 is a better value, so I'd recommend the HJC. -DrewZilla

+RevZilla Both costs +/- 180$ each here in Poland. Thanks.

[@RevZilla]

+Radek “Śruba” K. I believe the HJC is also a bit lighter. -DrewZilla

[@jcherry1970]

Just bought a HJC IS Max 2 helmet, and playing hell on the revzilla site finding the part numbers for the pinlock options and the chin curtain options (should be a cold weather and normal right?) ... Help Revzilla....

[@RevZilla]

The HJ-05/07/09/17 Pinlock Lens Insert is linked below for you. The standard motorcycle and snowmobile chin curtains are also linked below. -DrewZilla *www.revzilla.com/product/hjc-hj-05-07-09-17-pinlock-lens-insert *www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/hjc-is-max-2-chin-curtain *www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/hjc-is-max-2-snow-chin-curtain

[@Rambler358]

Does the IS-Max 2 offer the same fit and sizing as the previous IS-Max BT? So a large Max 2 would fit me the same as a large Max BT?

[@RevZilla]

+Rambler358 They're not exactly the same fit, but they're very very similar. So if you wore a large in the BT, get a large in the IS-Max 2. -DrewZilla

[@ronz821]

+RevZilla Well, I got the HJC IS-Max 2 in XL (same as my previous IS-Max BT), and it's not the same fit. The IS-Max 2 gives me a hotspot in the middle of my forehead, where the IS-Max BT was a perfect fit for me. :(

[@markgold1183]

How old are the helmets? This video is from 2014 and I have heard helmets need to be replaced every 3 to 5 years. Am I purchasing a outdated helmet?

[@RevZilla]

No, you aren't purchasing an outdated helmet. Helmet _designs_ tend to be updated every 4 to 6 years, but HJC is constantly making new inventory during that time. Generally, helmets are good for 5 years from the date of purchase or 7 years from the date of manufacture, whichever comes first. We sell a lot of helmets, so it's unlikely you'd get an old helmet. -DrewZilla

[@AnthonysWestTexasRides]

Do you offer the chin curtain for it and where can I find the breath box you mentioned for it also?

[@RevZilla]

+Anthony Walden Yes we do. Linked below are the motorcycle chin curtain, larger snowmobile chin curtain, and snowmobile breath box for the IX-Max 2. -DrewZilla *www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/hjc-is-max-2-chin-curtain *www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/hjc-is-max-2-snow-chin-curtain *www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/hjc-is-max-2-breath-box

[@AnthonysWestTexasRides]

RevZilla awesome, thanks!

[@donsvideos1985]

excessive pressure on my forehead during long rides.. I'm a 2xl and after 150 miles my forehead gets painful pressure point.

[@RevZilla]

It's likely you have a slightly longer oval head shape. Around the same price, the Scorpion EXO-GT920 or LS2 Strobe might be a better option for your head shape. -DrewZilla *www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/ls2-strobe-helmet-solid *www.revzilla.com/scorpion-exo-gt920-helmets

[@SpykeZ0129]

@@RevZilla Drew, I hope you and Lemmy NEVER leave Revzilla. You two are the reason so many people watch Revzilla videos. I hope they treat you well there.

[@iancurtis5397]

I really like this helmet. My head is 23 inches around crown what size would fit best? I guess on the chart I fall between medium and large. Any input is appreciated thsnks

[@RevZilla]

I'd recommend size large. -DrewZilla

[@iancurtis5397]

RevZilla thanks for the quick reply. I'm in a predicament I bought this helmet from a dealer in medium. Now it feels a little tight but fine around the crown once again my size is 23 inches. And where I feel the pressure the most is the top of the forehead where it meets the scalp and on my cheeks. I wonder if this feeling is normal because I'm not used to wearing helmets. should I just keep the medium helmet I got or switch to a large and if so how long would it take to get the same helmet in large from you guys the quickest form of shipment? Any input is appreciated thank you very much.

[@RevZilla]

Cheek pressure is normal, as cheek pads compress a lot once broken in. The forehead pressure tells me that you either need a size large or you need a helmet with a slightly longer internal shape. Even though I initially recommended size large, my concern is that the large HJC might be too big based on your updated feedback. You might want to consider a similarly-priced modular helmet from Scorpion, the EXO-GT920. We find it has more room in the forehead...though it's a bit slim in the cheeks. I would consider the Scorpion in size large, so that you get a fit that's just a bit bigger than the HJC in medium. -DrewZilla *www.revzilla.com/scorpion-exo-gt920-helmets

[@pinkiewerewolf]

Hi Ian. I have a size 23 brain cabinet too. I've always worn Shoei in Small and ripped out the cheek pads for a perfect fit. I bought this helmet from my H-D dealership and was able to try them on, I bought a Large. The cheeks were only a bit tight but felt fine after my first ride with the helmet. The first helmet they handed me was a medium and while I could get it on my noggin it felt like my head was being compressed by the World's most comfortable vise. I'm glad that I went with the L. Monday I need to change a preorder that I have with Revzilla for a helmet.

[@iancurtis5397]

pinkiewerewolf lol most comfortable vice that's funny. Glad I switched to large too.

[@kurtphyre]

Hi Revzilla, any idea if HJC is going to be releasing a IS-Max 3 anytime soon? Thanks.

[@RevZilla]

They just released the RPHA 90 and CL-Max 3 modular helmets, but the IS-Max 2 probably won't be updated for another year or two. -DrewZilla

[@kurtphyre]

RevZilla I was tracking those 2 new helmets. I was just looking to get a good modular in sort of that middle ground regarding price.

[@RevZilla]

I hear ya.

[@Pmason718]

Is the RPHA 90 a better model than this one?

[@sobo250687]

Hey guys, HJC is Max 2 or LS2 metro? (Considering I live in Thailand, really hot in here)

[@RevZilla]

Probably the LS2 for the increased ventilation. -DrewZilla

[@sobo250687]

@@RevZilla thanks

[@Petter-xb1kg]

I'm planning on buying this as my first helmet, I'm just wondering: Is it easy to install a bluetooth/communication device in it? And how much does it weigh?

[@Petter-xb1kg]

+Petter Johansen ANd how does the Sena 3S-b fit in it?

[@RevZilla]

+Petter Johansen Yes it is easy to install a Bluetooth communicator, but instead of the 3S-B, I recommend the 3S-WB, as the 3S-WB is better for modular helmets. The helmet weighs just under 4 lbs. (1700-1800g). -DrewZilla *www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/sena-3s-wb-bluetooth-headset-universal-mic

[@Petter-xb1kg]

RevZilla Okay, thanks for the quick reply! :)

[@Klassenarbeit]

What is the difference between this helmet and the R-PHA max evo?

[@RevZilla]

Klassenarbeit The RPHA Max (Evo in Europe) uses HJC's PIM "Premium Integrated Matrix", a composite of carbon fiber, aramid, and fiberglass, for the shell construction. The IS-Max 2 uses a polycarbonate (plastic) shell, which is cheaper to produce than the lighter and stronger PIM shell of the RPHA Max. The RPHA Max is more streamlined from the outside, but the IS-Max 2 is one of the few modular helmets made in very large sizes (up to 5XL!). Both helmets are great values for their pricepoints. -DrewZilla

[@jimngugk4741]

Hi ! I would like to buy one of this , but I would like to know what is the size is good for spec user ... ? My head size is about 59.5 something like that , and I am wearing spec , so what is your recommendation ? thanks :)

[@RevZilla]

I recommend size large (L). However, an even better helmet for those of us who wear glasses/spectacles is the Scorpion EXO-GT920. Again, I recommend size large (L). -DrewZilla *www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/hjc-is-max-2-helmet-solid *www.revzilla.com/scorpion-exo-gt920-helmets

[@bubblehead7680]

The main thing I would have against the Scorpion is the angular surface makes it very tough (it seems) to mount a camera like a Gopro.

[@gregwyland3881]

What are the buttons on the external visor for?

[@RevZilla]

The pins on the face shield? Those are for Pinlock inserts. Basically, a little lens that fits inside the shield and creates a dual-pane window sort of effect, to combat fogging. -Kraus-e *www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/hjc-hj-05-07-09-17-pinlock-lens-insert

[@2nmingo]

its really freaking comfortable inside

[@littletoy01]

can you replace the button for dark visor.

[@RevZilla]

Yes, you can replace the slider button for the sun visor. If you have this helmet and the sun visor slider button has broken off, then you would need to contact the dealer from which you purchased the helmet for a replacement piece. If you purchased the helmet from RevZilla, you would call 877-792-9455. If you purchased elsewhere, you would contact that dealer. -DrewZilla

[@gardenstateflatlandb]

Great overview, but your math is way off. How do you subtract 5oz from 4lbs 1oz and get 3lbs 8oz? You do realize there are 16oz in a lb, right? Just bustin your chops, but watch the math. Lol

[@bikerrick]

i want one in solid metalic blue

[@14Marathons]

Will the sun visor fit over glasses?

[@RevZilla]

Yes, the sun visor fits over most glasses. -DrewZilla

[@14Marathons]

Great! Thank you for the quick reply...

[@pickettarika]

Warren Beers yes it does.

[@BananaBoat629]

I got this helmet today and the cheek pads are a bit too tight, is it possible to get thinner cheek pads?

[@RevZilla]

The cheek pads should be tight at first, as they loosen up over time. However, if you do still want thinner cheek pads, they are available. See the product page below to see stock thickness. You can then determine what thickness you want instead. -DrewZilla *www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/hjc-is-max-2-cheek-pads

[@anthonykinney6009]

how is the wind noise on this helmet.

[@RevZilla]

+Anthony Kinney The wind noise is moderate. It all depends on your bike and your riding position, but we don't find it to be overly loud. Of course, we always recommend wearing earplugs. -DrewZilla

[@anthonykinney6009]

+RevZilla currently using a cl16 on a cruiser... I know cl16 fairly noisy

[@RevZilla]

+Anthony Kinney We find the IS-Max 2 to be quieter than the CL-16. -DrewZilla

[@michaelsoberanes]

what the heck does he say in the beginning?

[@SpykeZ0129]

Hey This Is Anthony With RevzillaTV where you can watch this side and ride. Took me a little bit of rewinding to get that.

[@Street_Riding_Tips]

Thanks for the info!

[@nac5000]

so no chin courtin 😞

[@jgunther3398]

cerrrrrtinly nyuk nyuk nyuk

[@neilos02]

I work in TV production. Please stop with the constant pans and tilts of the product. It makes it SO hard to concentrate on what he's talking about.

[@RevZilla]

neilos02 Thanks for the feedback! I'll pass it on to our video production team. -DrewZilla

[@RideWithRen]

And again...

[@leonguyen078]

made in Viet Nam

[@jgunther3398]

If you weren't there you wouldn't understand...

[@gleidsonpaixao7406]

Uau ;)

[@RKnoll74]

How does this compare to the LS2 Strobe? Is the ECE rating a big deal?

[@RevZilla]

The ECE rating is a nice touch, but the HJC is still a good option without it. Both helmets have similar features, but the HJC has a rounder fit, while the LS2 has a longer, narrower fit. -DrewZilla