Motorcycle

Loss of Control.

I used to own a motorcycle and ride on a regular basis. It’s been years though since I have. As a former owner and rider I am keenly aware of motorcycles when I am out driving in my car, and do my best to keep a safe distance and take added road safety measures. Unfortunately not everyone does though. The PSA below doesn’t involve a motorcycle and a car, but it does show the dangers that motorcyclist encounter, and does an epic job of driving home the potential outcome of an accident. Produced by QUAD productions for La Chose, director Bruno Aveillan, QUAD, and post production house FIX Studio have created a powerful spot. The voice over anchors the message and drives it home as the 60 second spot draws to a close. And as heavy as the message is, this has a fabulous visual look to it. The post production work is so solid, and all of it helps pull this together. 

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Choppers.

Gestalten has a new book out chronicling the history of the Chopper. Even if you aren’t into motorcycles, the book and the video below are worth taking a look at. The motorcycle, and in this case the chopper are an iconic part of American culture. The video below is an interview with Paul d’Orléans aka the Vintagent, author of the book and gives a really nice insight into the history of the bikes and the culture surrounding them. It’s a great set up for the book, and is definitely something I’ll be checking out in the near future.

Heritage Helmets. Cafe Racer Helmets from the UK.

In the state of Kansas you aren’t required by law to wear a helmet when riding a motorcycle. (I think that the state of Kansas should make it mandatory that all motorcycle owners sign the organ donor line on the back of their licenses.)  I know we are talking about a state that in the last decade has chosen to not believe in evolution, is home to that idiot Fred Phelps, and has now discontinued funding for the arts. Thank god I am almost in Missouri.

OK enough of that, the reason I mentioned the helmet thing is because if you are on a motorcycle or a scooter you should put a helmet on your head. If you are fashion conscious and need something that will make you look all retro cool, you might want to try Heritage Helmets from the UK. The Lambretta helmet is Retro styled, with cool graphics, and affordable. The helmets are emblazoned with the Lambretta logo, and as former Lambretta owner, I have to say Heritage has done a great job with the styling on these.

The helmets are a Cafe Racer style shell featuring a classic open-faced design, from the early seventies. They are painted, lacquered and finished in Italy with work being done by Giancarlo Daneo (Project’s owner and designer), to create Heritage’s initial range.

The helmets meet European Road Safety Standards ECE 22/05 and are made to the highest standard. They are manufactured by Project srl, who have been designing, developing and creating  motorcycle helmets for over forty years.

Heritage Helmets feature a shell made from a composite ABS with the inside lined with polystyrene, with a calibrate density for extra protection, safety and comfort. The linings are interchangeable, washable and are covered with a microfiber eco leather finish, which is breathable and absorbent. The buckle/safety chinstrap has a micrometric regulator for easy fitting, and a quick release fastener. Each helmet comes individually boxed and bagged, with an optional detachable peak and a booklet giving advice on safety, maintenance and storage.