PRODUCT FAQ
  • CLEANING
  • MAINTENANCE
  • VARIOUS
  • HELMET CUSTOMIZATION
  • ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS
  • REPAIRS AND CLAIMS
  • SECURITY
  • CERTIFICATIONS

How should I clean my helmet?

All you need to do to keep your AGV helmet clean is a few simple rules. First of all you should never let your helmet gather dirt. To keep it clean all the time, we recommend the use of AGV "Multiuse Cleaner" that you can get from any AGV dealer. This product works in two ways: it sanitises the inner components and cleans the liner and visor without harming any of the plastic parts. We recommend that you spray the product on the parts you want to clean, leave it until the spray is absorbed then wipe with a clean dry cloth.
If you prefer, you can simply use a sponge or a cloth soaked in warm water and a neutral soap. When you have finished, turn the helmet upside down so that any excess water can drain out of the air vents and leave it to dry at room temperature and well away from any sources of heat (sun, radiators etc...). AGV strongly recommends the use of a neutral soap as opposed to soap powders or glass cleaning products as such items often contain alcohol and/or solvents that can be abrasive and ruin the helmet.
For further information, see “Assistance - Use and Maintenance ” - “Safety warning” booklet.

Choosing the right helmet

To ensure maximum safety, the helmet should fit perfectly and feel comfortable. This means that it should not be either too tight, because it would be impossible to wear it for long periods of time, or too large, because it would not provide enough protection in the case of impact, or it could slip to the side or off your head while driving.

1. To determine the correct helmet size, the first thing to do is to measure your head by passing a tape measure around it a couple of centimeters above the eyebrows and ears.

2. Based on the helmet size that you have just determined, now you must try it on to make sure that it fits properly and feels comfortable. Pull both parts of the chinstrap to the side (see figure) and put on the helmet, sliding it from the back of the head to the front.

3. At this point, make sure that all the liner parts (sides, top, front) adhere to your cheeks, the top of your head and forehead. Keep your head still and try to turn the helmet slightly to the right and left, then move it up and down and backward and forward (see figure).
The helmet adheres properly if it pulls the skin on the cheeks and forehead, so if it turns too easily around your head it is too big and you should try a smaller size.

4. The last step is to fasten the chinstrap as tightly as possible but without hurting and with your head bent forward, try to remove the helmet by pulling it from the back to the front (see figure).
If the helmet comes off easily, it is not the right fit for you.

5. If the size seems to be right, keep the helmet on for a few minutes to make sure that it does not hurt or there are no pressure areas. If you are not sure, repeat the steps above until you find the helmet that fits the best. Always choose the smaller size if you are undecided between two different size helmets that both feel comfortable

Before riding

Always remember to put on and fasten your helmet correctly. Never wear a scarf under the retention system or a hat under the helmet. The helmet should be put on and adjusted while the vehicle is not moving.

Periodically check the condition of the helmet and its components that are subject to wear (screws, mechanisms, buttons, plastic parts, etc.), particularly the following:

- The surface of the helmet, to make sure that there are no cracks;
- The chinstrap, to make sure that it is in good condition and that the retention system works correctly;
- The lining and buttons/attachments to the helmet, to make sure that they are in good condition;
- The visor, to make sure that it is not scratched and that you have perfect visibility;
- The visor mechanism, to make sure that it works correctly.
Bear in mind that wearing a helmet may deaden the sound of traffic and the surrounding environment, particularly if it is an integral helmet. Make sure that you can still hear sounds such as horns and emergency sirens, and correctly evaluate the impact of the helmet on your perception of external conditions.
Be prepared for sudden changes in the weather conditions that may occur while you are driving and which may influence the performance of the helmet (e.g. fogging of the visor due to a drop in temperature or rain, low visibility while driving through tunnels, etc.).

Caring for and maintaining the helmet

The helmet must always be handled and treated carefully so that its safety features remain intact.
Use the special all-purpose AGV cleaner to clean the shell and liner of the helmet, or alternatively use a soft cloth with neutral soap and warm water to wipe the outside of the helmet and non-removable liners. Rinse it by wiping it with a soft, wet cloth.
Removable liners can be washed by hand or in the washing machine using warm water (max 35°) and neutral soap. Always air dry the liner without exposing it to sources of heat. Make sure that the liner is completely dry before using the helmet again to prevent mould and unpleasant odours.
Do not use gasoline, benzene or other chemical products and solvents because they may jeopardize the functioning and structure of some of the parts and weaken the protective features.
We strongly advise against painting the helmet for the same reason, because paint solvents may damage the materials of the helmet.

Never modify the helmet (for example, drilling holes or cutting the shell, pressing the polystyrene, cutting the retention system or the liner) to avoid weakening the structure and jeopardizing the protective features. Always use original AGV parts if you need to replace a part and contact an AGV dealer if you are not sure how to perform an operation.

Avoid conduct or uses of the helmet that might compromise its performance:
- Do not drive with the helmet hanging from the anti-theft device/helmet hook or the seat so that it does not become bumped or scratched.
- Do not place the helmet on the stem of the rear-view mirror or the back of the seat so that the liner does not become damaged.
- Do not sit on the helmet or place it on the ground.
- Do not leave the helmet on places such as the gas tank or the seat because it could easily fall and become damaged. For the same reason, keep the helmet away from children and animals, which may cause it to fall, scratch it or ruin it.
- Never remove the structural parts of the helmet, such as the inner shell, the strap or the seals.
- Do not expose the helmet to very bright sunlight.

NB The Fluo colours are very delicate and sensitive to light: AGV does not guarantee the quality of the Fluo colours over time.

Caring for and maintaining the visor and plastic parts

Always keep the visor in excellent condition to ensure perfect visibility. Replace it immediately if it becomes scratched, damaged or can no longer be cleaned properly.
In order to clean the visor properly, remove it from the helmet and wipe it with a soft cloth and the special AGV cleaner.

Alternatively, wipe the visor with a soft cloth and warm water, adding neutral soap to the water if the visor is very dirty. Rinse it under running water and dry it with a soft cloth. It is much easier and you will obtain the best results if you clean the visor and helmet immediately after use.

- Do not use gasoline, benzene, glass cleaners or other chemical products and solvents because they may jeopardize the quality of the visor
- Do not use sources of heat to dry the visor
- Do not use sharp or pointed objects to remove dirt from the visor so that it does not become scratched
- Do not apply stickers or sticky tape to the visor

Follow the instructions above to clean the plastic parts of the helmet such as the air inlets and visor mechanism. Use compressed air to remove dirt, dust or insects from the parts that you cannot reach with a cloth. Remove the lining or cover it with newspaper to protect it and prevent the inside of the helmet from becoming dirty during this operation.

Can you send me some AGV stickers?

Unfortunately the company is not authorised to distribute this kind of material. If you are looking for promotional material, try asking your local AGV shop.

Why does AGV use different fasteners for the helmets?

Our helmets feature three different types of fasteners: the Double-D fastening system, the buckle with fine adjustment and the quick-release buckle. The more sporty models all feature the Double-D fastener, simply because they are part of the MotoGP competition standard. The others feature a simpler fastener, and are designed for the tourism and comfort lines. All the fastening systems undergo factory testing as well as tests required by safety standards and relating to strength and fastness.

Is it true that MotoGP riders use the same helmet I can buy?

The Racing line is dedicated to sports helmets only. Their production process follows the same standards required by MotoGP, including the Double-D fastener and the flat visor ready to use tear-off films. In fact, the most famous motorcycle champions wear exactly the same helmet which you can buy.

Can the inside of a helmet be changed to alter the fit?

AGV helmets can also be personalised as regards degree of comfort. On many AGV and MDS models, this is possible, choosing interiors with thickness below or above standard. The possibility of personalisation changes from model to model. The AGV network or info@agv.it can provide details in merit.

How about tailor-made helmets?

The technological processes involved preclude the offer of tailor-made helmets. Our main standard production covers a wide range of need, and runs from XXS (52 cm cranial circumference) to XXXL (66 cm).

Can I have my helmet painted?

AGV strongly advises against painting helmets because the solvents in the paints can negatively affect the safety structure (bubbles and polystyrene) and the plastic parts (mechanisms, visor, etc.). For the same reason, stickers must not be applied to the helmet or visor. Painting the helmet or tampering in any way with the helmet parts will immediately invalidate the AGV product warranty.

Can I install SHARE system on any AGV helmet model?

The helmet models compatible with REAR SHARE EASYare:

Numo

Numo EVO

Compact

K-5 jet

Fluid

 

The helmet models compatible with SIDE SHARE EASYare:

K-5

K-3 SV

S-4 SV

Stealth SV

Horizon

Skyline

Strada

DA530 (Dainese)

Do I have to take care of installing the communication system SHARE by myself after I've purchased it?

Yes. Installing the communication system is easy and does not require tools. Simply follow the installation instructions listed in the booklet you'll find in the kit. You can also download the instructions from the website

What are the main features of the SHARE communication system?

The system allows you to connect cell phones and smartphones, intercom communication with a device of the same type up to distances of a few tens of meters, connection with motorcycle satellite navigators available on the market and with the satellite navigators of smartphones, allows you to listen to music in wireless mode and via cable transmitted by devices that feature A2DP bluetooth profiles, connects with FM radio stations and is equipped with RDS (automatic radio station search function).

What is the maximum speed at which communication runs smoothly with SHARE system?

The limit speed at which communication begins to be choppy depends on a number of factors that represent sources of external noise, such as the type of motorcycle used and the type of helmet. Generally speaking, you can communicate smoothly up to a speed of 120-130 km/h with a one-piece or closed flip front helmet, or approximately 80-90 km/h with a jet or open flip front helmet.

Am I allowed to use the device SHARE anywhere on road?

The laws of individual Countries allow you to use communication systems assembled on a helmet anywhere in Europe and in nearly all States of the U.S. In some cases use is prohibited, while in others it is limited with certain restrictions. You must find out before you purchase the system what the laws of the Highway Code in force are in your Country, or in the Country you are travelling in during your trip.

One of the typical restrictions is to use devices in "mono" mode to allow riders to hear danger signals or external sounds while riding. This is precisely why the SHARE system allows you to detach one earphone.

The laws of the Highway Code change rather quickly in this industry, so be sure to keep yourself informed.

Does the intercom connection with SHARE system allow me to communicate between one motorcycle and another?

The connection is guaranteed for short distances of up to a maximum 100 meters, beyond which the system disconnects. This means that the system surely enables communication between the rider's helmet and the passenger and allows communication between two motorcycles that are close to each other (side-by-side or at a short distance).

Is intercom connection possible between a helmet equipped with the SHARE system and another equipped with a different type of communication system?

No. Only two SHARE systems can interconnect in intercom mode.

What is SHARE pairing and what is the difference with a normal connection?

Pairing is the process by which a communication system recognizes another electronic device. Pairing of the SHARE system to another electronic device needs to be carried out only once and it is possible to pair the SHARE system with other devices. Pairing is saved in memory so that when you turn on the SHARE system again, you won't have to carry out another pairing to the same device.

The connection, instead, is an automatic or manual process that allows communication between SHARE and other electronic devices paired to it. The SHARE system automatically connects to the last device connected previously if it is visible, e.g. within a distance of 10 meters.

I can't pair the SHARE system to my phone? What do I have to do?

Pairing is a process that depends on both devices. Phones recently placed on the market are designed to allow pairing with SHARE and have an active Bluetooth channel. First of all, you have to check that the phone has been configured so that it can search other Bluetooth devices. Check the manual of the phone if necessary to find out. Sometimes, certain smartphone applications have the Bluetooth channel engaged and do not allow pairing. If so, you have to identify which applications they are and de-install them, before you proceed with pairing.

I am unable to pair the SHARE system to the navigator. What do I have to do?

The SHARE system cannot be paired with car navigation systems available on the market. It can be affiliated on most navigators specifically designed for motorcycling (Tom Tom and Garmin).

When I receive a call, the SHARE system does not announce the name of the caller, even though the caller is listed in the phone book. How can I activate this function?

Access to the phone-book by SHARE also depends on the phone model with which it is paired. On recently designed models, this function is enabled. On certain phone models, the user is requested to grant authorization. On other models, instead, it unfortunately is not possible.

I can't make with SHARE system a phone-call with vocal activation. What should I do?

First of all, make sure that the phone supports this function and how it can be activated if it is available (it often is necessary to enter a keyword before the name of the person to call (like: “call…”).

Secondly, SHARE must be placed in the conditions to activate the vocal call (double click on the + key).

Finally, make sure that the name of the person to call is entered in the phone book in the same way you pronounced it.

After you've checked they match, the quality of the phone's digital filters as well as any surrounding noise come into play. For a call with vocal activation, you may have to stop riding or at least slow down, in order to attenuate aerodynamic disturbance on the microphone.

Can I hear the sound signal via SHARE when I receive an SMS or reminder on the phone?

It depends on the type of phone. It usually is possible.

The intercom with SHARE system disconnects. What do I have to do?

Intercom communication is designed to disconnect automatically after 60 seconds during which the system has not perceived any signal, or when the distance exceeds the maximum limit for a connection between the two devices.

To reactivate intercom manually, briefly apply pressure on the CTRL key of one of the two paired devices, or emit a loud vocal sound.

The connection is less stable if the batteries are low. In this case, proceed to recharge the device.

How can I tell that the SHARE batteries are low?

An automatic message in the earphone will signal that the battery is running low.

If I am listening to music with SHARE system or if I am in intercom mode, can I nonetheless receive phone calls?

Yes. The phone-call always has priority over the other functions, which are therefore interrupted until you quit the phone call. When the phone call is over, the low priority function is automatically restored.

How is priority between intercom communication and the navigator messages with SHARE system managed?

Navigator messages interrupt intercom communication by default. The priority of connected devices can be customized during pairing. For more details, see the paragraph "Superpriority pairing" in the User's Manual.

How can I send my helmet to you for repair?

To send your AGV helmet to our Customer Care Centre contact an authorised AGV dealer even if you bought it on-line (a list is available at the Store Locator section of the AGV website). Take your helmet to your local AGV shop and ask them to repair it if possible. In the event a repair is not viable, a claims procedure will be started. The shop will send the item directly to us and will then keep in contact with our technicians so that you are kept informed of the times and measures necessary for the repair work. Remember to include the sales receipt when preparing the shipment, since it is a proof of the purchase date if there is a basis for warranty cover which, in compliance with European regulations, lasts for 2 years from the purchase date.

I have bought an article with a defect, what should I do?

To check whether the damage you have found is effectively a production defect, please contact an authorised AGV dealer, preferably where you bought the helmet and even if you bought it on-line (a list is available at the Store Locator section of the AGV website). The shop will be able to give a first technical evaluation, and, if necessary, will open a claim procedure and arrange shipment of the article directly to us. Our qualified staff will inspect the garment and if the defect you have found is under warranty it will be repaired or replaced, depending on the extent of the defect. In case the helmet is not in production anymore, AGV will refund you with the helmet's value through the dealer where you purchased your helmet. Remember to keep and show the sales receipt to the dealer, since it is a proof of the purchase date if there is a basis for warranty cover which, in compliance with European regulations, lasts for 2 years from the purchase date.

I have an article that has been damaged by normal wear and tear, what should I do?

To check whether the damage you have found is effectively due to normal wear and tear, please contact an authorised Dainese dealer even if you bought it on-line (a list is available at the Store Locator section of the AGV website). The shop will then keep contacts with our technicians so that you are kept informed on the times and measures necessary or possible for the repair work. Remember to include the sales receipt when preparing the shipment, since it is a proof of the purchase date if there is a basis for warranty cover which, in compliance with European regulations, lasts for 2 years from the purchase date.

Is a helmet which has suffered an accident still safe?

Modern helmets are designed to withstand maximum impact through their destruction. Even a small impact can affect the integrity of a helmet and sometimes damage is caused that is not visible to the naked eye except to that of an expert. However, not even a very thorough visual inspection can confirm that the helmet will withstand another impact and remain fully effective. For this reason helmets that have been involved in even seemingly minor accidents must no longer be considered safe and must be replaced.

What is the average life-span of a helmet? When should I change my helmet?

There is no precise answer to this question. The average life of a helmet depends on a lot of factors, such as frequency of use, conditions of use (heat, cold, rain, etc.), the care and maintenance given to it, etc. Some helmet parts, such as polystyrenes and padding tend to wear after time, and lose their functionality. The same goes for mechanisms and the strap, which undergo a lot of wear. We suggest replacing your helmet at least every 5 years from purchase. Furthermore, it is a good idea to also change the helmet even before the indicated periods, or after an impact, in the event of evident signs of wear and/or deterioration of the main parts such as the bubble, strap, polystyrene and mechanisms.

Is it true that fibre helmets are safer than plastic ones?

No. Both the type-approval results and the SHARP results have shown that a plastic helmet can be as safe as and often safer than a fibre one. Fibre undoubtedly has other advantages, such as for example less weight and smaller dimensions, but does not necessarily provide greater safety. The reason why MotoGp riders or other championship riders choose fibre helmets is because they want them as light and small as possible for aerodynamic reasons and because they are less tiring to wear.

What is SHARP?

SHARP (Safety Helmet and Assessment Rating Programme – Programme for assessing the safety of helmets) is a programme begun in 2007 by the UK Transport Department, the goal of which is to provide all motorcyclists with an absolutely independent safety rating in case of impact, with regard to many of the helmets now available on the UK market. The SHARP rating goes from 1 (Min.) to 5 (Max.) stars and is based on the results of a series of lab tests. This survey has shown that the lives of over 50 motorcyclists a year could be saved if helmets were used with higher SHARP ratings. For more details visit the website www.direct.gov.uk/sharp.

Is SHARP an alternative type-approval?

No, SHARP should be considered as a supplement to type-approval. SHARP, in fact, does not aim at replacing European type-approval, but rather enables customers to know more in terms of the safety of the model they are about to purchase. A one-star model, though in conformity with standards, protects much less effectively than helmets with higher ratings. The SHARP tests have shown variations in protection levels between one and five-star helmets in case of accidents that can even reach 70%. Anyone can judge the beauty of graphics, the shape of the helmet, the comfort or the product quality. SHARP provides an independent assessment of an often hidden, but highly important element like safety in case of an accident.

Why is SHARP reliable?

SHARP assessments are directly controlled by an independent and public body, the UK Ministry of Transport. Tests are performed scrupulously in certified labs and the results are published on the website for everyone to see. The sampling of helmets for testing, completely paid for by the UK ministry of transport, is done without notifying the manufacturers in advance. The helmets are purchased directly in shops so as to be able to determine the real level of safety of the helmets available to the general public.

Where is the type-approval label?

The type-approval label is sewn on to the helmet strap. It is usually concealed and protected by the chin strap.

Why is the type-approval label important?

It is needed to be able to legally show that the helmet has been type approved. The first letter “E”, with a number, indicates the European Ministry of Transport which has granted type approval (E3 = Italy, E1 = Germany, E11 = UK, etc.).
The second series of figures (e.g.: 051111) is dedicated specifically to the helmet model and provides the link with the type-approval certificate and all the test documentation making this up. In short, it is the link with the helmet design data.
After this number, the following letters appear alternately:
-      P = protective helmet for the chin as well
-      NP = helmet which does not protect the chin
-      J = jet helmet
-      P/J = protective helmet for the chin + jet helmet

The last figure of several numbers is unique for each physical helmet and provides traceability with the lot and date of production, and consequently the details relating to the production process.