Schuberth J2 long-term test: our honest experience

With the J2, German helmet manufacturer Schuberth continues its open-face helmet range, which includes the J1, M1 and M1 Pro, among others. The J2 was developed for the ECE-R 22.06 standard and combines the open design of an open-face helmet with a removable chin bar. The chin bar is a special feature of the design. It can be detached from the helmet and refitted when needed. Schuberth intends it as additional mechanical protection for the face area. The basic construction of the J2 nevertheless remains that of an open-face helmet and differs from a closed full-face helmet.

The features also include a main visor that extends far down, an integrated sun visor, adjustable top vent and a Micro-Lock ratchet fastener.

The outer shell of the Schuberth J2 is made from glass fibre using so-called Direct Fibre Processing (DFP) and reinforced with an additional carbon layer. The helmet is available in two outer shell sizes, covering a total of six helmet sizes from XS to XXL. The stated weight is around 1,489 grams without the chin bar and 1,563 grams with the chin bar fitted. The weight difference between the two configurations is therefore about 74 grams.

Inside is a multi-zone EPS liner. Its different zones serve to absorb and distribute impact energy. The safety concept also includes A.R.O.S. (Anti-Roll-Off System), developed by Schuberth. In conjunction with the chin strap routing, this system is designed to prevent the helmet from rolling off the head backwards in a crash.

In developing the J2, Schuberth also focused on the airflow around the helmet shell and visor. The manufacturer states a noise level of 88 dB(A) at 100 km/h. According to Schuberth, this figure was measured on a naked bike. To influence the airflow, the visor features so-called turbulators. These are specially shaped notches on the upper and lower edges of the visor. They are designed to reduce wind and whistling noises.

In addition, the helmet comes with a removable wind deflector. It fits in the lower visor area and is meant to reduce air turbulence beneath the visor.

The Schuberth J2 is fitted with a large main visor that reaches far down and offers a wide field of vision. The visor can be set to any opening position, with stepless adjustment. The helmet also has an integrated sun visor. It is operated via a slider on the lower edge of the helmet and can be lowered steplessly. Ventilation is provided by an adjustable air intake on top of the helmet. From there, the incoming air is channelled through ducts within the EPS liner. This airflow ventilates the head area while riding.

The interior of the Schuberth J2 consists of seamlessly finished, antibacterial padding fabrics. The pads are removable and washable. The J2 is also part of the Schuberth Individual Program, which allows head and cheek pads to be replaced with versions of different padding thicknesses. These fitting options are available in particular for helmet sizes M, L and XL.

The system allows the inner contour to be adapted to different head shapes. By swapping individual padding elements, the fit can be changed without having to move to a different shell size.

The Schuberth J2 comes factory-prepared for the integration of Schuberth communication systems. HD speakers, wiring harness and antennas for Mesh, Bluetooth and FM radio are pre-installed in the helmet structure. The helmet is compatible with the SC2, SC2 Standard and SC EDGE communication systems. For installation, the designated control and microphone components are connected to the already integrated ports.

Philipp's experience with the Schuberth J2:

Apart from the E2, I've had every current Schuberth helmet in our test helmet line-up, and some of them in permanent use. My favourite is the J2. Generally I'm not a big fan of open-face helmets, for two pragmatic reasons: 1, they make me look like a chubby kid. 2, I don't get why anyone would voluntarily give up chin protection on a helmet. The J2 solves both problems for me. Thanks to its shape (it feels more full-face than open-face) I don't look quite as chubby in it, and the removable chin bar is slim enough to feel like nothing, yet sturdy enough to protect my jaw in a crash. Ergo: awesome helmet, good idea, well executed.

It's also the Schuberth helmet that fits my head shape best (56 cm circumference, shape: more round-oval). A good indicator for any helmet is always the question: how often do I use it privately? In my case: very often. In town it's my first choice anyway, but for longer rides too (especially in high summer) the J2 is always right at the front of my shelf.

I like the ventilation, the large field of vision, the sun visor that reaches far down and the easy integration of a communication system. Even on the motorway (with the chin guard fitted) the helmet is very practical for me and - for an open-face helmet - very quiet.

My only criticism of the helmet: Schuberth, please make some more colourful, bolder graphics. I ride my J2 in white, which goes with almost every outfit. But a few cool designs would make me happy.

Poky's experience with the Schuberth J2

In everyday use, the Schuberth J2 impresses with an enormously large field of vision and the familiar high build quality of the German premium manufacturer. The padding is pleasant, sits comfortably and can be removed and washed for cleaning. Operation is also well thought out: the key functions are easy to use with motorcycle gloves. Add to that effective ventilation, which provides pleasant fresh air especially in warmer temperatures. The preparation for a communication system rounds off the extensive features.

A special feature of the J2 is the removable chin bar, which seals surprisingly well for an open-face helmet and thus offers additional protection from wind and weather. At the same time, it allows a high degree of flexibility. Depending on the use and personal preference, the helmet can be worn with or without the chin bar. The safety concept is elaborate for an open-face helmet, although subjectively the removable chin bar doesn't inspire a great deal of confidence.

The Schuberth J2 isn't entirely without weaknesses, though. Removing the chin bar in particular is somewhat fiddly. The comparatively high weight is also noticeable, especially when you compare the J2 with classic open-face helmets. That no Pinlock comes as standard with a helmet in this price range is also disappointing.

All in all, the Schuberth J2 is a high-quality, comfortable and versatile premium open-face helmet that scores above all with its large field of vision, good weather protection and everyday practicality. Anyone looking for the lightest, most uncomplicated open-face helmet will be happier elsewhere. But anyone who values comfort, features and flexible use will find the J2 an interesting overall package.

Horvath's experience with the Schuberth J2

Anyone who often rides with open-face helmets knows there can be big differences within this category. For me, the Schuberth J2 clearly belongs to the comfort-oriented kind, particularly well suited to longer days in the saddle. Wearing comfort is exceptionally high, the lining feels pleasant on the head and keeps things feeling good on longer stages too. As someone who wears glasses, I also appreciate that they can be worn under the helmet without any problems – a strength I already know from other Schuberth helmets. In everyday use, the practical ratchet fastener also convinces, making putting the helmet on and taking it off quick and easy. The sun visor and ventilation controls are equally well done and easy to operate even with gloves. A special feature is the additional chin bar, which almost makes you forget you're actually wearing an open-face helmet while riding. That especially benefits the subjective sense of safety.

However, due to its size and weight, the J2 isn't a helmet I'd quickly pop on and off for short trips around town. It's simply too bulky for that. Nor do you want to carelessly leave such a high-quality and correspondingly expensive helmet hanging on the vehicle or risk scratches. On top of that, its dimensions mean it won't fit under every scooter seat – more compact open-face helmets have clear advantages here. But anyone looking for a high-quality open-face helmet for versatile everyday use that also makes longer tours and motorway stints comfortable will find the Schuberth J2 an extremely convincing companion. The generous field of vision, good ventilation and above all the outstanding wearing comfort make it a true long-distance open-face helmet for me.