HJC RPHA 11 Pro in the Darter graphic.
Several years ago HJC launched a new helmet brand called RPHA, which is pronounced ?arfa? and stands for Revolutionary Performance Helmet Advantage. While certainly not the most concise or elegant name, the RPHA line promised to offer premium-level helmets at reasonable prices. We?ve tested the RPHA Max modular and RPHA ST full-face helmets in previous issues (see ridermagazine.com), and they impressed us with their lightness, comfort, features and value.
HJC?s top-of-the-line full-face helmet is the RPHA 11 Pro, successor to the RPHA 10 (which debuted as the RPS-10, HJC?s first premium helmet). Its next-generation Premium Integrated Matrix (PIM) shell, made from a blend of carbon fiber, aramid, fiberglass and organic non-woven fabric and now called Advanced PIM Plus, helps reduce weight. Our medium RPHA 11 Pro weighs just 3 pounds, 2 ounces, a full 4 ounces lighter than the RPS-10 we tested in 2011. The shell also has a more aerodynamic shape and a rear spoiler for stability. Rear view of the RPHA 11 Pro.
Designed to be worn on the track as well as the street, ventilation is excellent. The RPHA 11 Pro has two-position vents (open or closed) on the chinbar and forehead, as well as a pair of air scoop-style vents on the crown, which have seven-level adjustable airflow that?s controlled by rubber-covered dials that are easy to roll open or closed with gloved fingers. Channels within the EPS liner distribute airflow around the head, and t...