Full Face - Kings Motorcycle Gear

The new HJC RPHA 70 ST is an aggressive and lightweight street helmet with loads of great features. As an avid motorcyclist, I was eager to test out this lid and compare it to others on the market. In this detailed review, I'll share my experience using the 70 ST over several weeks and hundreds of miles on the road. Read on to see how it performed! But, the main question I will answer in this review will be: Is this the best full face motorcycle helmet for you? Let's find out! HJC RPHA 70 STKey TakeawaysLoads of ventilationDrop-down sun visorPinlock anti-fog lensLightweight performance shellCheck Prices A Narrower Shell One of the first things I noticed about the RPHA 70 ST is its narrower shell design. Compared to the previous Arfa ST model, the 70 ST has a much more compact shape with tighter contours. Thanks to the improved aerodynamic profile, I felt less wind resistance at highway speeds. The helmet comes in 3 different shell sizes to ensure a proper fit. I tested a size large, which fit my head shape perfectly. Top-of-the-Line Composite HJC uses an advanced integrated matrix composite on the RPHA 70 ST consisting of carbon fiber, fiberglass, and organic fibers. This makes the shell extremely lightweight yet very durable. My size large helmet tipped the scales at just over 3 pounds on my digital scale. For a feature-packed street lid with a drop-down sun visor, that's an impressive weight. The premium materials and construction make the 70 ST feel rock solid. Increased Ventilation One of my biggest complaints with many full-face helmets is the lack of airflow. The 70 ST delivers excellent ventilation through its redesigned shell. There are now six large intake vents and four exhaust vents strategically placed around the helmet. I could feel cool air flowing in through the top vents and hot air exhausting out the back at high speeds. The venting system is easy to operate, even with gloves on. No more sweaty, uncomfortable rides! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5t6FgQtdzQY&pp=ygUVaGpjIHJwaGEgNzAgc3QgaGVsbWV0 Check Prices Drop-Down Sun Visor The quick-release drop-down sun shield is a major highlight of the RPHA 70 ST. With the flip of a switch, I can lower the tinted visor into place to block sun glare. The Vision Protection System (VPS) sun visor provides ample coverage without compromising outward vision. I love not having to swap shields or wear sunglasses every time the sun peeks out. The sun visor also has an anti-fog coating for optimal visibility. D-O-T and ECE Certified Safety is crucial when choosing any full-face motorcycle helmet. The HJC RPHA 70 ST delivers plenty of protection, meeting both DOT and ECE safety standards. The fiber shell, EPS impact foam, and premium liner work together to cushion your head. The included emergency cheek pads make it easy for first responders to remove the helmet without causing further injury. Knowing my dome is secure inside this lid at highway speeds gives me peace of mind. Check Prices Optimized for Upright Riding HJC designed the 70 ST primarily for upright riding positions - think sport touring, standard, and commuting setups. The interior has a comfortable shape with quality padding that breaks in over time. I took this helmet on long highway stints as well as around town without any undue neck strain or pressure points. It's not a hardcore race helmet, but also works well for flowing back roads. Ventilation Scheme I touched on the stellar ventilation system earlier, so let's dive into the details. It starts with a large centrally-located top vent that has a 3-position slider. Fully open, it ushers ample air into the EPS liner through 3 intake holes. At the rear are two static exhaust vents to let hot air escape. I kept these open at all times. The 70 ST also has a chin, forehead, and lower vents that all help increase airflow. Premium Interior The RPHA 70 ST is loaded with premium materials and creature comforts. The liner fabric has anti-microbial and moisture-wicking properties to keep you cool and dry on hot rides. The cheek pads have HJC's Emergency Quick Release System for safe helmet removal. Speaker pockets let you install Bluetooth communication kits. Overall, the fit and finish is superb. My glasses fit comfortably in the grooves above the cheek pads too. Check Prices Emergency Cheek Pad Removal I already mentioned the emergency cheek pad removal system, but it's such an important safety feature that it deserves more detail. In an accident, first responders can quickly pull out the cheek pads using the fabric tabs. This allows the helmet to slide off without putting stress on your head or neck. The cheek pads have snap-in plastic pieces that release when the tabs are pulled. I, fortunately, haven't needed to use this feature, but it's nice for peace of mind. Aerodynamic Profile The streamlined shell on the RPHA 70 ST cuts through the wind smoothly to reduce buffeting and drag. I barely noticed any wind noise when cruising the highway or carving canyon roads. The revamped vents blend into the contours of the helmet and don't create turbulence. Looking at the profile, the 70 ST appears much more dialed than its predecessor, thanks to extensive wind tunnel testing. Speed and stability are greatly improved. Rapidfire Shield System HJC's RapidFire shield replacement system makes swapping visors fast and tool-free. Just flip up the lever, slide the shield out, and snap a new one into place. I was able to change the clear and smoked shields that came with my 70 ST in under 30 seconds! The optically-superior 2D flat shields also minimize distortion for clearer vision on the bike. Centrally-located quick-release locks keep the shield securely closed. Check Prices Sizing and Fit I always recommend trying helmets on in person, but HJC provides detailed sizing charts if you have to order online. My head measures right at the upper end of the medium (58cm). I tried both medium and large 70 ST sizes to compare. The large size gave me a comfortable street fit without being loose. The medium had a snugger racing fit. Both sizes were true to the sizing chart. Keep in mind the 70 ST runs slightly large overall. Features and Benefits To recap, the main benefits I found with the HJC RPHA 70 ST are: Lightweight and aerodynamic performance shell Loads of ventilation options to keep you cool Drop-down sun shield for quick shade Pinlock lens insert prevents shield fogging Premium anti-microbial moisture-wicking liner Emergency cheek pad system for easy helmet removal RapidFire shield replacement system swaps visors quickly Speaker pockets and cutouts if you want to add Bluetooth DOT and ECE certified for safety and security Check Prices Ventilation Ventilation is worthy of emphasis because it really sets the 70 ST apart from other street lids. The redesigned shell incoming air through multiple intake vents, allowing it to flow through channels in the EPS foam. Strategically placed exhaust vents let the air exit out the back. I felt a noticeable difference in airflow compared to my old helmet. My head stayed cool even when stuck in traffic on hot days. Interior Overview Inside the helmet, the RPHA 70 ST features a comfortable moisture-wicking anti-microbial liner. The fabric and padding break in overtime for a customized fit. I didn't experience any pressure points or undue neck strain during long stints in the saddle. For glasses and goggles, recessed channels along the cheek pads give your arms somewhere to rest. The emergency cheek pads have handy fabric tabs for quick removal by first responders. Check Prices Communication System Readiness I often ride with a Bluetooth communicator, so the integrated speaker pockets were a welcome addition. The pockets have velcro covers that are easily removed to insert speaker units from Sena, Cardo, etc. The helmet cutouts ensure proper speaker placement without compromising the liner. I was able to install my Bluetooth system quickly for hands-free calling, GPS navigation, and music streaming. Check Prices FAQs Here are answers to some common questions about the HJC RPHA 70 ST helmet: What sizes is the 70 ST available in? It comes in sizes XS all the way up to 2XL to fit most head shapes and sizes. Be sure to measure your head and refer to the size chart carefully. Does it come with a pinlock anti-fog lens? Yes, a Pinlock MaxVision anti-fog insert comes standard with the 70 ST. This helps prevent visor fogging in damp weather. What kind of warranty does HJC offer? The 70 ST has a 5-year limited warranty on defects in materials and workmanship. Contact HJC for full warranty details. Is the 70 ST good for riding with eyeglasses? Yes, channels along the top of the cheek pads are specifically designed to accommodate eyeglass arms. Most riders have no issues fitting their eyewear inside the helmet. What communication systems work with the 70 ST? It has integrated speaker pockets that work seamlessly with popular Bluetooth kits from Sena, Cardo, Uclear, etc. Just remove the velcro covers to insert speakers. Conclusion I'm thoroughly impressed with this helmet after hundreds of miles of riding with the RPHA 70 ST in various conditions. It offers a comfortable fit, good looks, ample ventilation, a handy sun shield, and plenty of premium features. HJC hits the mark with a high-quality and affordable street lid. I happily recommend the 70 ST to fellow riders looking for their next helmet. It will not disappoint! Check Prices Previous Article: AGV K5 S Tornado Review Next Article: