The introduction of the HJC RPHA 12 certainly indicates HJC is striving to retain its reputation for offering value-for-money helmets while also addressing the shortcomings of its predecessors.
Here are some key takeaways and thoughts on the RPHA 12.
- Design Evolution: HJC seems to have taken a more conservative approach with the design of the RPHA 12. By sticking closer to the design aesthetics of the RPHA 11 rather than making a significant leap as they did with the RPHA 31, they’re likely targeting fans of the RPHA 11 and ensuring a smoother transition for them.
- Shell Material: The Premium Integrated Matrix Evo (PIM-Evo) sounds promising. Using a combination of carbon-aramid hybrid and natural fibres, HJC aims to offer enhanced shock resistance, improved comfort, and a lighter helmet. It’ll be crucial to see how this translates into real-world performance and user experience.
- Ventilation System: While the intake vents retain their position and shape from the RPHA 11, the revamped venting scheme with updates in the chin, forehead, and brow vent areas shows HJC’s commitment to improving airflow. However, the removal of some exhaust vents might raise questions about its efficacy.
- Visor Mechanism: Addressing the wear and tear concerns of the RPHA 11’s visor mechanism, the HJ-42 visor with the new Pivot Ratchet might be one of the significant updates in the RPHA 12. Better movement and sealing will surely enhance the rider’s experience.
- Features: The list of features is impressive. From an emergency release cheek pad system to advanced anti-bacterial fabric and moisture wicking, HJC is not holding back on making this helmet a premium offering. The inclusion of a free Pinlock 120 anti-fog insert, dark smoke visor, chin curtain, and breath deflector is a testament to their commitment to delivering value.
- Price and Options: The pricing tiers based on graphics and material (carbon) give buyers multiple options to choose from. The four initial graphic options, Ottin, Lawin, Spasso, and Enoth, are just the beginning, and it’s exciting to think of the potential licensed projects HJC might introduce in the future.
- Availability: U.S. buyers might have to wait a bit to get their hands on the graphic or carbon variants. But with Revzilla already having the basic RPHA 12 on sale, it’s only a matter of time before the full range becomes available.
Pros of the HJC RPHA 12:
- New Premium Integrated Matrix Evo (PIM-Evo) shell for enhanced shock resistance, comfort, and lightness.
- New HJ-42 visor with a Pivot Ratchet system for improved movement and sealing.
- Updated chin, forehead, and brow vent system.
- Wide eye port, emergency release cheek pad system, and interior with advanced anti-bacterial fabric and moisture wicking.
- Free Pinlock 120 anti-fog insert, a dark smoke visor, a chin curtain, and a breath deflector.
- Competitive price.
Cons of the HJC RPHA 12:
- Limited graphic options and carbon variant availability in the U.S. (at the time of writing).
- Some users have reported the visor mechanism can be difficult to operate with gloves on.
Conclusion
the HJC RPHA 12 presents itself as a significant advancement from its predecessor, the RPHA 11. HJC appears to have taken a meticulous approach, making both minor and major enhancements while preserving the essence of the brand and addressing previously identified shortcomings.
From the integration of the Premium Integrated Matrix Evo (PIM-Evo) for an improved shell to the revamped visor and venting systems, HJC demonstrates its commitment to delivering both quality and value. With competitive pricing and a range of design options to cater to different preferences, the RPHA 12 seems poised to solidify its position in the market. As it becomes more widely available, especially in the U.S., its real-world performance will truly determine its standing in the helmet industry.
The HJC RPHA 12 seems to be a worthy successor to the RPHA 11. It embodies HJC’s commitment to continual improvement, listening to user feedback, and delivering value. It’ll be interesting to see how the helmet is received by riders and if it lives up to the expectations set by its predecessor.
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