Autumn may be the season of mists and mellow fruitfulness but for motorbike riders it is the season of misty and murky visors!
But there are some easy steps you can take to stop your helmet fogging up. Your breath is warmer than the outside air so it turns to condensation when it comes into contact with the cool surface of the visor.
The best way to overcome visor visibility issues is to use a Pinlock insert which is either standard or compatible with most mid-range and premium helmets.
The insert fits on to pins on the inside of the visor and a silicone bead around the edge creates an airtight seal. Like double-glazing, the gap insulates the visor, keeping the interior surface warmer, and helps stop condensation forming.
But that’s only half the story. If there is any moisture, the Pinlock insert soaks it up without affecting visibility.
We stock and sell Pinlock visors for quality helmets and can fit them for you.
Daniel Williams, our parts, clothing and accessories manager, said Pinlock visors were available for most helmets costing more than £100.
“Most people think a Pinlock visor is like double-glazing but it is also like a sponge that absorbs excess moisture and stops it pooling. Because it is absorbed, you can’t see it.”
The Pinlock insert’s performance deteriorates with time and it can shrink so is not as efficient at clearing moisture. Replacements costs from about £25 – a small price to be able to see safely.
“We’ll even fit them for people because you have to take the visor off, flatten it and then put the Pinlock on so it springs back into place and creates an airtight seal,” he explained.
Once the Pinlock insert is in place, wipe it as little as possible. Unlike the outside of the visor, it does not get road muck on it.
On the subject of road grime, we also sell a range of helmet and visor cleaners in both large and smaller bottles. The latter are ideal for popping in your pocket or top box so you can use them while out riding.
Daniel said that some helmet brands advised cleaning only with warm water so check the instructions for your particular headgear.
We also have anti-fog sprays which can be used on the inside of the visor if you are not using a Pinlock system.