HJC RPHA 71 Carbon Helmet Evaluation

Final up to date:June 2, 2025

Evaluation Abstract

In case you’re on the lookout for the primary takeaways from this evaluation, right here is my abstract of the RPHA 71 Carbon:

• The HJC RPHA 71 Carbon retails for $634.99 USD
• The helmet sports activities a gorgeous black carbon fiber weave wrap that completely showcases its shell composition
• The helmet is light-weight, but heavy when in comparison with different comparable carbon fiber fashions
• Each element of the helmet feels premium and is made out of high-quality supplies
• The RPHA 71 Carbon is the best-fitting, most snug helmet I’ve worn thus far
• Sizing is customary with 6 sizes (XS-2XL) throughout 4 shell sizes 
• Sturdy EVO Carbon fiber development, however solely accredited to DOT requirements
• Extraordinarily huge FOV with a high-quality visor observe system with not less than 10 definitive visor positions
• The included darkish smoke drop-down solar defend has 3 observe positions and covers all the FOV, leaving solely a small space uncovered
• Pinlock 120 DKS468 is included in your buy
• The 2 outsized vents and two rear exhausts work time beyond regulation to supply distinctive front-to-back airflow
• The air flow system could be adjusted to raised fit your wants
• Preventative measures to regulate noise work adequately, however nonetheless enable for a little bit of wind and highway noise 
• The RPHA 71 Carbon permits for seamless integration with Sena 11B, 21B, and 50B Bluetooth programs
• The helmet gives riders with a more-than-fair worth at its present value level, with probably the most coming from its invaluable consolation stage 

RPHA 71 Carbon – Consolation is Paramount

2025 is shaping as much as be the yr of carbon fiber helmets for me, and I’m not complaining one bit. While you get the prospect to evaluation a helmet from one of many greatest names within the trade, you clear your schedule and get to work.

This was my first HJC helmet, and admittedly, I didn’t know what to anticipate. With a lot constructive HJC protection throughout webBikeWorld, I wanted to search out out what I used to be lacking out on, and the reply was oh a lot.

This yr, we’ve partnered up with our mates over at Helmet Home to convey you an intensive listing of substances evaluations which are positive to excite. HJC is a significant line for them, and I needed to verify I did this helmet justice by testing it in-depth and totally. With out additional delay, learn on for my findings beneath! 

First Impressions

There’s nothing higher than that new helmet scent. 

The RPHA 71 Carbon arrived in a premium-looking field with tons of packaging, foam, and cardboard buildings to make sure it doesn’t get broken in transport. I appreciated that, as I’ve needed to take care of compromised helmets prior to now as a result of courier negligence and mishandling.

Instantly, I observed the large chin and top-of-head vent that appears able to producing insane quantities of airflow. Upon opening the visor, you’ll be able to really feel the high-quality multi-step ratchet system that’s robust sufficient to carry the visor in no matter place you want. 

Total, the helmet felt well-made and high-quality. I used to be keen to check out the massive vents and see in the event that they have been as highly effective as they appeared.

We Love a Carbon Fiber Shell

There’s nothing fairly like slipping on a carbon fiber helmet and instantly benefiting from its light-weight shell. For these of you who’ve ridden in entry-level helmets earlier than, you already know precisely what I’m speaking about (stiff neck, anybody?). Nonetheless, when in comparison with different carbon fiber helmets inside its value vary, the RPHA 71 Carbon is on the heavier aspect.

Apart from being light-weight, I’m positive you’re well-versed in carbon fiber’s security capabilities, resembling its superior influence dispersion and excessive elasticity. They’re thought to be a number of the strongest and most secure helmets obtainable.

To emphasise its interior makings, HJC gave the RPHA 71 a gorgeous carbon fiber wrap on the surface. The shiny black end paired with the carbon fiber weave is certain to show heads and is an actual deal with to have a look at. As well as, it may be effortlessly styled with any gear in your closet! 

As I beforehand talked about, the whole lot about this helmet feels premium. I haven’t discovered a single element about this lid that feels low-cost. From the vent sliding mechanism to the aerodynamic fins on the higher rear, this helmet is well-made and constructed to final.

Design & Construct Score – 95%

I’ve genuinely struggled to search out one thing concerning the RPHA 71’s design and construct that I didn’t like. In worry of sounding like a damaged document, the whole lot feels premium and very high-quality. The general design is easy, with a gorgeous carbon fiber weave wrap and typical branding on the forehead and rear. Nonetheless, the outsized vents and aerodynamic fins differentiate this helmet from different full-face helmets available on the market, with a touch of a cumbersome look.

Enjoyable truth, I had 3 compliments on my helmet the primary time I rode in it. If that doesn’t converse for the design of the lid, I don’t know what’s going to!

The one factor working in opposition to the design RPHA 71, and that is nitpicking at its best, is the position of the face defend launch button. I discovered it to be too near the lifting tab of the defend, making it tough to distinguish with a gloved hand. Admittedly, the position is healthier than the button on the EXO-Eclipse I just lately reviewed.

If solely contemplating the design and construct of this helmet, the RPHA 71 would have earned a spot on our Greatest Carbon Fiber Motorbike Helmets listing.

Dimension, Match & Consolation

I do know you’ve heard me say this earlier than, however I promise you that I’m telling the reality after I say that the RPHA 71 Carbon is probably the most snug helmet I’ve ever worn.

I don’t know if it’s the general match of the helmet, the agency stress of the cheek pads, the moisture-wicking material, the light-weight shell, or all the above, however I’m not exaggerating after I say this helmet is an absolute pleasure to put on.

It matches me like a glove, with near zero motion in all instructions, but on the similar time doesn’t really feel overly tight and has zero stress factors. I may put on this helmet for hours and never develop bored with it. In my view, the match alone is that this helmet’s best-selling function.

The sizing is customary, with a medium becoming me completely (as if that wasn’t already clear). I’d advocate ordering your typical dimension, however at all times seek the advice of the scale information earlier than ordering. This lid is accessible in 6 totally different sizes, from XS to 2XL, throughout 4 outer shell sizes.

What does that imply? You’re extra prone to expertise the identical euphoria I had whereas using in it. You could assume that 4 shell sizes aren’t an enormous deal, as most producers have 3, however by having a extra compact outer shell, the helmet can higher shield your head, really feel much less cumbersome, and eradicate that bobblehead feeling we’re all aware of.

Dimension, Match & Consolation Score – 100%

Certainly, the RPHA 71 Carbon receives an ideal rating for dimension, match, and luxury. It’s onerous for me to place into phrases how a lot I loved using on this helmet, and the way a lot of a distinction the consolation of this helmet made to my general expertise. 

Merely put, it felt like this helmet was custom-fit to my head, which was a useful using expertise.

How Protected is it?

The RPHA 71 Carbon is made out of a premium built-in matrix of EVO carbon fiber. It’s stated to ship superior efficiency with enhanced shock resistance and most safety. But, the helmet is simply DOT-approved. I’m not disputing that this helmet could be very sturdy and efficient, however HJC hasn’t performed the legwork to show that declare.

You would make the argument that as a result of this helmet is classed as a touring mannequin, there isn’t a necessity to satisfy additional certifications. I’d counter that argument with the truth that RPHA (Revolutionary Efficiency Helmet Superior) helmets are HJC’s top-shelf, high-performance fashions, and are geared towards riders who prioritize efficiency, security, and superior options. As such, it solely is smart to see additional security certifications. 

A few of their cheaper fashions, such because the i10, are Snell M2020 licensed, with some high-end fashions reaching each FIM and ECE requirements. It leaves me confused, and fairly frankly let down, that the HJC group didn’t go the additional step.

After all, this data is accessible on-line from HJC retailers, resembling Helmet Home, so it’s not as if HJC is making an attempt to cover the truth that the helmet is simply DOT-approved. For a leisure rider, it’s possible you’ll select to miss this element for those who’re solely in your bike for leisure rides or commuting. For sport riders, you might have considered trying to check out our Greatest Full Face Motorbike Helmets for 2025 listing for licensed choices

Safety – 75%

At webBikeWorld, we maintain carbon fiber helmets to the next diploma due to their superior protecting capabilities and light-weight shells. It’s these actual traits that warrant the upper value level of the helmet itself. In my view, as riders, we should always encourage and problem helmet producers to satisfy certifications for not solely our security however each different rider’s security as effectively.

Please right me if I’m incorrect! If HJC is at present within the course of of getting it examined to satisfy additional security certifications, I’m prepared to revisit this evaluation and edit my work to mirror that.

Considerate Options to Improve Your Journey

HJC did an amazing job of incorporating options into the RPHA 71 Carbon the work to reinforce your general using expertise. These options could be divided into 4 sub-categories: Imaginative and prescient, Air flow, Noise Management, and Comfort.

Imaginative and prescient – 95%

This helmet actually excelled when it comes to general imaginative and prescient and its supporting options. It sports activities a particularly huge FOV, immersing you in your journey with subsequent to zero visible impairment. For the aim of the evaluation, I used to be despatched a darkish smoke visor, however this could usually not be included and is offered individually.

The lid is provided with a darkish smoke drop-down solar defend, which, very like the Scorpion EXO-Eclipse, covers my whole FOV, leaving subsequent to no room for visible distortion between the tinted and untinted atmosphere. That is all due to HJC’s dynamic multi-step sliding mechanism that allowed me to increase/extract the defend to the precise place I needed.

Apart from the sunshield, the primary visor observe could also be probably the greatest I’ve had the pleasure of using with. The superior ratchet system will maintain the visor securely in just about any place. I counted 10 definitive positions, together with my favourite barely open on the backside.

As talked about beforehand, my solely problem with this helmet’s visor system is the discharge button, which is situated instantly subsequent to the lifting lip. With a gloved hand, I typically discovered it tough to distinguish the 2. 

Air flow – 90%

Sizzling air isn’t any problem for the RPHA 71 Carbon. The lid is outfitted with two huge vents: one on the chin and one on the highest. Whereas using, you’ll be able to really feel the highly effective front-to-back airflow due to the two outsized intakes and a couple of rear exhausts. 

The air flow system could be adjusted from full blast, restricted, or closed relying in your wants. I liked being able to regulate as wanted to assist fight highway noise, drag, and altering temperatures. 

Noise Management – 70%

A number of programs are in place with the RPHA 71 Carbon to fight highway noise. First, the general form and design of the helmet are streamlined to reduce wind noise. Moreover, the entrance edge spoiler helps to slice by the wind, additional stopping noise and air turbulence.

After testing, I discovered that the helmet’s noise management capabilities have been higher on paper than they have been in real-world conditions. I didn’t discover the helmet to be quieter than different cheaper fashions I’ve worn, resembling Scorpion’s Covert FX. 

Most notably, the highest vent makes a loud whistling noise at medium to excessive speeds. This may be very distracting and off-putting, even for riders like myself who aren’t too choosy about noise management.

Comfort – 90%

Consolation is paramount with the RPHA 71 Carbon, and what higher method to improve the using expertise than with comfort options? Probably the most notable could be that the helmet is SMART HJC Prepared.

What does this imply? The RPHA 71 Carbon permits for full integration of the Sena 11B, 21B, and 50B Bluetooth programs. It has set cut-outs and pockets for a seamless set up. After all, the helmet can nonetheless settle for different programs, nonetheless, they’ll must be put in externally.

One other enormous plus for me is the emergency-release cheek pads. I’ve talked about it earlier than in earlier evaluations, however I believe all helmets ought to have this function. The short-release pads could possibly be the distinction between life and dying in a important state of affairs.

For my scoring, I’ve factored in all of the helmet options, together with those I’ve lined above. These embrace however are usually not restricted to the included Pinlock, the helmet entrance edge spoiler that combats turbulence and carry, the chin curtain, the breath deflector, and the drop-down sunshield.

Worth for Cash – 80%

Right here is the place issues get attention-grabbing! With a value level just under the mid-600s, the RPHA 71 Carbon just isn’t a small funding. After all, we’ve seen helmets priced effectively above the $1000 vary from different identify manufacturers, resembling Arai and AGV, however they’re a completely totally different beast.

To find out how the RPHA 71 Carbon stacks up when it comes to worth for cash, it’s vital to think about its goal market. As we mentioned, this helmet in all probability isn’t for sport riders as a result of its lack of security certifications. Might you get on the observe with DOT alone? Probably. It’s all depending on the group.

So, who would see probably the most profit from this lid? Every day and/or leisure riders who desire a high-performance, snug, and light-weight carbon fiber lid. Sure, cheaper choices exist, however I’d be prepared to wager they’ll’t compete within the consolation division.

Despite the fact that a second face defend just isn’t included, you’ll get a Pinlock and darkish smoke sunshield along with your buy. This provides immense worth as these parts are sometimes offered individually from different producers.

Total, I consider the RPHA 71 Carbon is a good helmet that gives greater than truthful worth to the rider. I wouldn’t classify it as distinctive, however I actually wouldn’t name it overpriced both. I consider that regardless of the rider, you can be greater than happy along with your buy.

Remaining Verdict

Driving within the RPHA 71 Carbon was an absolute pleasure, and I’m saddened that I would like to maneuver on to the subsequent evaluation. Key parts of the helmet, such because the huge FOV, highly effective air flow, and Sena integration, have been stand-out options for me.

Inside the Carbon Fiber motorbike helmet market, the RPHA 71 Carbon could be thought-about a mid-range helmet as a result of it falls throughout the $500-$750 value vary. Utilizing our Better of Checklist for 2025, you’ll be able to see that each helmet on that listing is not less than DOT & ECE accredited, together with the cheaper choices.

Even nonetheless, I think about this helmet an amazing selection and a powerful contender for the worth level. It’s a touring helmet that’s designed to supply all-day consolation and efficiency, which is precisely what it does.

As I’ve stated all through this evaluation, with the RPHA 71 Carbon helmet, consolation is paramount, and for those who’re on the lookout for the last word pleasure helmet, this can be the most effective helmet for you!

Professionals

• Extraordinarily snug for all-day using efficiency
• Broad FOV, Pinlock 120, and drop-down solar defend enable for an immersive using expertise
• Highly effective front-to-back airflow that may be adjusted to satisfy altering climate situations
• SMART HJC Prepared for seamless Sena integration
• EVO carbon fiber development with superior aerodynamics and entrance spoiler successfully combats turbulence and helmet carry
• Emergency launch cheek pads 
• 4 shell sizes throughout 6 helmet sizes

Cons

• Solely DOT-certified
• Noise management is common at greatest
• Only one face defend is included in your buy
• The face defend launch button could be tough to function with a gloved hand

The place to Purchase

Picture Gallery