Beginning with your first question regarding cruising and Half-shells (Half-face helmets). As we cruise along on our cruiser, cruisers love to keep the air flowing. We don't want a hot oven stuck on our faces. A Half-shell provides US with a nice breeze while cruising.
We want to be comfortable with nothing pulling our heads around on long stretches of straight road. The VCOROS F07 Half motorcycle helmet, is designed for just this type of riding. It is an old-school open-face Half shell that is DOT FMVSS 218 certified. With over 3000 amazon customer reviews and a four-star rating, and priced lower than many riders spend on a single tank of premium fuel, you cannot beat it. It will never pretend to be a full-face helmet and it doesn’t have to. it is made specifically for a certain type of motorcyclist who knows what he/she wants.
Build Quality and Safety
Now Let’s deal with the boring stuff first, safety standards and construction. While this helmet is not rated as “Snell” or “ECE”, it is federally compliant and therefore tested. It carries the DOT sticker which certifies the shell meets all federal requirements for testing. As far as construction, this helmet uses the same basic formula as most Half shells in this class: a lightweight ABS shell over a high-density EPS liner. Both are great components to use. ABS is extremely durable and resistant to cracking during impacts. In addition, both components are relatively light in weight making it easy to wear this helmet for extended periods. When an impact occurs, the EPS liner is responsible for absorbing the shock.
When we talk about trade-offs, a Half-shell is going to provide zero chin protection, no jaw protection, and no visor of any sort except for that drop-down sun visor i mentioned earlier. A Half-shell provides top-of-the-head protection only. If you ride aggressively, split lanes in traffic or travel at speeds above 80 mph, a Half-shell is the wrong tool for the job. Instead, consider full-face helmets and modular helmets. On the other hand, if you ride a chopper or cruiser at slower speeds and you've determined that a Half-shell is your cup of tea, this helmet will do the basics using quality materials.
Comfort and Fit
One of the features that receive the most attention in regard to this helmet is the integrated drop-down sun visor. When the sun starts shining directly into your eyes, simply flip it down and when it's shaded again flip it back up. That simple mechanism is incredibly convenient and helpful to anyone wearing a Half-shell. Most riders who utilize it regularly claim that it is one of the primary factors for why they continue to wear this helmet.
The quick-release chin strap is literally what it says. Just one lever and you're out of it. This may seem like an insignificant detail until you find yourself struggling with a well-worn-out chin strap at a gas station with gloved hands. The comfort liner is also removable and washable. Many riders underestimate how quickly a Half-shell becomes soaked with sweat in warmer temperatures. Washing the comfort liner allows you to keep the rest of the helmet from becoming a scientific experiment by late summer.
In terms of sizing, please be aware that VCOROS offers five different sizes ranging from small to XXL. However, unlike many other budget helmets, Half-shells typically fit differently on various sizing charts. Buyers have indicated that they would recommend measuring your head based on circumference versus relying solely on the size designation provided by the manufacturer. one such buyer commented that although the manufacturer listed his size as large, he measured himself and found that a medium fit comfortably snug. This trend seems to appear throughout the reviewer comments, measure carefully before purchasing.
A bad-fitting helmet will create unnecessary danger and discomfort while wearing it. Therefore, achieving a proper fit is crucial when choosing a Half-shell.
If you'd prefer to review additional information related to fit comparisons among multiple types of helmets, check out our helmet reviews page.
What Amazon Reviewers Are Saying
Amazon provides numerous reviews of The VCOROS F07 Half shell helmet. Although opinions vary among reviewers, there are several consistent themes within their comments. To help determine whether or not you'll enjoy using this helmet, read below:
Solene (a.k.a. R.) stated that this was the best helmet he had ever bought and further added that it had exceptional quality. In addition to quality, solene claimed that the helmet looked great and wore great too. These statements are extremely positive for a budget-priced Half shell helmet. There were numerous similar comments among reviewers indicating they were shocked at how much helmet they received for their money.
Tony echoed these comments stating that he felt the helmet was as advertised with excellent quality and true to size. Tony also complimented the lightness of the helmet as well as the dark coloration of the drop-down smoke visor. The comments regarding weight appear frequently among reviewers.
However, not all reviewers have given glowing comments concerning fit. According to jackie bates (a.k.a. Jackie l.), she liked how the helmet looked but thought that it set slightly higher on her head than she anticipated. She did mention that she could still achieve a reasonable fit.
Overall, based upon approximately 3000+ reviews and a 4.4-star rating average, it appears as though nearly everyone who buys this helmet is pleased with their purchase. Complaints are generally limited to issues involving sizing and fit rather than concerns relating to safety or build quality.
Based upon the data collected from these reviews, it appears as though if you make an informed decision prior to buying, i.e., understand which type of rider you are, you'll likely be satisfied with your experience with this helmet.
Who Is This For?
As with any product, be honest about who needs this product and who doesn’t. The VCOROS F07 Half shell helmet is intended for cruiser and chopper enthusiasts, warm weather riders, riders who travel short distances (e.g., to bars, offices, etc.), and riders who engage in weekend jaunts through towns or cities. It’s ideal for individuals who wish to enjoy the cool breezes associated with cruising as well as enjoy the classic styling offered by retro-style motorcycles.
On the other hand, commuters traveling highways each day will require greater facial protection and reduced wind noise. Dirt bikers will also require more protective gear (e.g., chin guard/goggles). So, if you’re either commuting daily or riding dirt bikes, this isn’t your helmet.
But if you’ve already decided that a Half-shell helmet is your style, then VCOROS’ offering may meet your needs. It’s affordable, it’s light, it’s DOT compliant, and the drop-down visor solves one of the last remaining drawbacks associated with traditional Half-shells, sun glare.
If you’d like to view current prices or browse colors available via amazon click here and see if this helmet fits your needs, both physically and financially.
Faqs
Is The VCOROS F07 DOT Compliant?
Yes, however, it’s certified as per DOT FMVSS 218 compliance standards. Thus, it’s been tested according to federal regulations for safety compliance standards for helmets sold within the u.s.
Will My Visor Protect My Eyes from Sunlight?
The included drop-down sun visor acts similarly to a sun visor vs. A full-face shield, providing glare relief without completely obstructing your entire face area.
How Does the Sizing Differ?
Unlike other budget helmets that are somewhat standard in their sizing measurements, VCOROS has reported several customers required a smaller-sized option than indicated on their respective sizing chart(s). Consequently, we recommend measuring your head based upon its circumference when deciding which size option to select.
Can I Wash My Comfort Liner?
Yes, VCOROS' comfort liners are both removable and washable. Given how quickly a Half-shell can become saturated with sweat in warmer climates, washing your comfort liner allows you to maintain your helmet's cleanliness and extend its usability seasonally.
Is This Helmet Sufficiently Light-weight for Me to Ride with for Longer Periods?
Several reviewers praised the light weight of The VCOROS F07 as one of its greatest attributes, especially considering its relative affordability.
Which Sizes Are Available?
VCOROS currently offers five different sizes for this particular model: s-xl