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HJC CL-Max 2 Friction Helmet Review

HJC CL-Max 2 Friction Helmet

If you’re looking for a modular helmet to replace an old worn out one or need an upgrade from a basic model, then you should definitely check out the CL-Max 2. A step up from earlier models offered by HJC, the CL-Max 2 is stuffed with impressive features and is a great long-term investment.

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HJC offers a very wide range of sizes for this product and it comes with some ultra cool graphics on a matte black shell. Not only will you be able to find the perfect fit, you’ll also look hardcore while wearing it.

Weighing in at 3.72 pounds (1.69 kg), the CL-Max 2 is of a round oval shape. It is strong, durable, and provides optimum protection against most impacts. It is also user-friendly in a lot of ways.

If you’re into touring and long rides, then the CL-Max 2 might just be the perfect companion for you. So, let’s take a look at all the benefits and features that HJC has to offer.

Buy from a Badass Helmet Partner

HJC CL-Max 2 Friction HelmetWe have worked closely with RevZilla, Amazon and 2Wheel over the years to provide our testers with products to review. They are all great partners and unique in their own ways, so make sure to check out their prices. Please don’t forget we may get a commission if you buy from them.

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Benefits

One of the main benefits of the CL-Max 2, and all modular is that it is a “flip-up” helmet. Any lover of flip-up designs will be able to tell you that this feature (which allows them to turn the full face helmet into an open face helmet) is a huge plus point. This allows you to let in more air while you’re stuck at stop signals or flip up the front to read a map or even smoke without taking off the entire helmet. It is, of course, a matter of personal preference, but it still has its advantages.

The second major benefit of the CL-Max 2 is that it comes ready for Bluetooth communication. This will be especially useful for daily commuters. You can listen to music as you idle in traffic and make important calls without having to take off your helmet. The Bluetooth unit though is sold separately, which really is a damper.

The face shield that HJC offers is very easy to operate. It allows for quick, tool-less removal and installation. It also comes with a single-button face shield release mechanism. Furthermore, it provides crystal clear, distortion-free visions and is UV protected. All these features combined make the CL-Max 2’s shield user-friendly and convenient.

Finally, the CL-Max 2 has an advanced ventilation system designed to keep you comfortable and relaxed in all weather conditions. It regulates airflow in such a way that it complements the overall aerodynamic structure of the helmet. This enables you to stay stable and balanced even at high speeds.

Now that you know about the main benefits of the CL-Max 2, let’s take a more detailed look at its individual features and see if this is the right modular helmet for you.

Features

The CL-Max 2 comes with a number of features that sets it a level above other helmets in its price-range. From its shell to its liner, HJC provides premium quality and comfort.

Shell

As mentioned earlier, the CL-Max 2 comes in a wide range of sizes. It offers no less than 9 fits—XS, SM, MD, LG, XL, 2XL, 3XL, 4XL, and 5XL. This is of particular advantage to people with large heads who usually find it hard to find a good fit.

The helmet is made of an advanced polycarbonate composite shell. This makes it durable and capable of handling high-force impacts. HJC also includes an adjustable polycarbonate chin bar to the CL-Max 2.

Face Shield

The face shield of the CL-Max 2 comes with a bunch of useful features. It has a single-button face shield release mechanism. It is glove-friendly and can be easily opened, even with just one hand.

HJC also provides a QuickSlide shield replacement system for easy, tool-less removal and re-installation. The CL-Max 2 also allows for quick, secure, tool-less removal and installation of an HJ-17 shield.

The superior face shield gives a wide field of vision and clarity of vision. It allows its users to have a distortion-free peripheral vision in all lighting conditions.

To top it all off, the face shield provides 95% UV protection, making the CL-Max 2 an excellent choice for long summertime rides.

Ventilation System

HJC provides ACS (Advanced Channeling Ventilation System) for the CL-Max 2. This provides full front-to-back airflow which flushes out heat and humidity from the interior of the helmet.

The take in of cool air and let out of heated air provides maximum comfort. This keeps the rider relaxed and focused on the road during long, tiresome journeys, especially in warm weather.

Liner and Cheek Pads

The Nylex Interior of the CL-Max 2 is one of its major advantages. It is anti-bacterial, removable and washable. The cheek pads are quite easy to remove, making maintenance that much easier.

Both the liner and cheek pads are designed for optimum comfort and provide a snug and cozy fit. This allows you to wear the helmet for long durations without getting any aches or cramps.

Buy from a Badass Helmet Partner

HJC CL-Max 2 Friction HelmetWe have worked closely with RevZilla, Amazon and 2Wheel over the years to provide our testers with products to review. They are all great partners and unique in their own ways, so make sure to check out their prices. Please don’t forget we may get a commission if you buy from them.

RevZillaBuy  AmazonBuy  2WheelBuy

Extra Features Worth Nothing

Now that we’ve gone through most of the CL-Max 2’s major features, let’s look at some extra qualities that make it stand out from its competition.

HJC offers a single-button release mechanism for its chin bar (similar to the one used for the face shield). It’s one of those simple, everyday conveniences that can go a long way, especially when a helmet is something you use on a day-to-day basis.

The Polycarbonate Alloy chin bar is another added bonus. The thermoplastic shell is injection-molded with ABS. Both these qualities are a testament to the CL-Max 2’s strength and longevity.

Finally, the HJC CL-Max 2 is DOT approved. Therefore, its quality and safety standards are certified and reliable.

The fact that the CL-Max 2 comes in a wide range of sizes is an added advantage as you’ll be sure to find a size that fits you perfectly. The liner and cheek pads are an added bonus that make your ride comfortable and cozy. The ventilation system is such that you will get optimum air circulation in all weather conditions. All in all, the HJC CL-Max 2 is an excellent product for daily urban use.

 

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