I'll be getting a Burgman 650 soon. Along with saddlebags and some other things, the most important piece of equipment I'm looking at getting is a helmet.
On the superficial end of the spectrum: I do not want to get a helmet that says "I'm trying to be a biker". I want something good and comfortable, and also something that looks right on a scooter. I like the idea of a modular helmet where I can have an open-face while putzing around town (I live in the city) but something that offers good protection while touring.
Maybe I should add that I would like to get bluetooth headsets for my GF and I so we can chat while on long rides or I can listen to music while riding solo.
I can only recommed from experience; I have a GMAX 54s and my wife has a Scorpion exo-900. Fit for either will depend on your head; you should really try them out (as with all helmets). Both are modular with internal flip down sun visors.
The GMax also comes as a snowmobile helmet and all the parts for converting from one to another so it's a good winter helmet. As a matter of fact, all the parts, down to the screws, are available; the reason I know this is that the main external screws should be take out and reinstalled with threadlock lest they loosen and fall out. There also is a dual layer visor (not pinlock) that I used last winter; it's very effective.
In addition, there is the matter of the rear light; as it comes, there is a light on the back of the helmet that is steady or one of several flashing patterns. There is also an optional light that has a transmitter that ties into you brake electrical line and wirelessly activates the light. The more light the better.
The Scorpion exo-900 is convertable to a 3/4 helmet with visor or you can use it as a modular. The is a pin-lock visor available. Past that, I can say that my wife likes it. It also has a place for a bluetooth rig, but it's only one type and you generally want the same type bluetooth unit for all helmets.
They're both kinda plain looking, but I couldn't afford a Ruby; now I certainly can't.
Ny wife and I have two Cardo Scala Rider G9x bluetooth units - my general impression is that the industry has a long way to go. Different brands generally do not talk to each other; even Sena which offers an 'universal intercom' has a downside in that it uses a bloetooth channel to make a connection. The intercomm part of the G9x works pretty well, but it's an all or nothing switch; when the intercomm is active the music is off. Sena may be different but I couldn't attest to that. The bluetooth music connection cuts out brom time to time and I haven't figured out why. We got a deal on a pair of G9x's - If I was paying retail, I'd probably go with a Sena 10 model.
I'd be interested to hear other's experiences.
