Is ear protection worth bothering with?
Вставка
- Опубліковано 28 сер 2024
- Turns out it's quite important for us motorcyclists to protect our hearing if we want to avoid permanent hearing loss - Here I discuss the issue and try out a new product from Custom Fit Guards (Website link below)...
www.customfitgu...
Don't forget to tell 'em I sent you!
(P.S. I did get sent the ear plugs I review here for free, but this is not intended to be an advert, I just think earplugs are a good idea, especially custom fitted ones....)
Ear plugs are not just good for protecting your hearing in the long term, they also play a significant role in keeping the fatigue level down because wind noise can literally be exhausting after a while which is something you forgot to mention.
And then you lose focus, your concentration level drops and you're much more likely to make a mistake or cause an accident. Not to mention your head aches like a mofo. So ear plugs perform two very important functions for every rider and they're an absolute must-have!
Thanks MackP!
Every ride. Every time. Day in, day out. Always use hearing protection.
Great review. I have lost some hearing after 35+ years of riding. The first 10 or so years I went without ear plugs which is what caused most of my hearing loss.
Wow, bad news....let's hope new riders are told about this when they take their lessons these days, it's something that's pretty easy to prevent (even with basic foam ear plugs)...thanks for sharing your story - TMF.
I played in thrash metal bands for years and no real damage, but that black widow exhaust on my Gsxs makes my ears ring for hours, definitely wearing plugs now.
I started biking in the mid 70's and rode for 15 years. At that time, hearing damage was not something we considered. The damage did not become apparent until I was 50 yrs old. Now I have bad tinnitus.
Thanks for raising awareness of this issue - if only one viewer takes the advice and saves her hearing then it's worth it.
Cheers Chris - that's what I'm hoping....
I can testify that wind noise does indeed ruin your hearing as it has done mine over years of motorcycling, as it did my father's too. I now wear plugs to save what's left of my hearing.
7:55 "It's quite eerie actually..."
Oh, the punnery. Lovely.
+Dan Likes Red Well spotted Dan, who doesn't lobe a pub ;0)
mate, I am a new rider at 32 years of age and I landed on this video after watching about your GS which I'd like to buy eventually. I cannot thank you enough for this information, you made me realise how important it is to protect my hearing, and I'll be buying these custom fit guards straight away as it's long distances I'm aiming to cover. Thanks again!!!
P.S. I've subscribed, keep the good stuff coming
Thanks brizolidis C...and welcome along, good to have you aboard!
Guys, use ear protection. After 30 years or so of riding, my hearing has definitely suffered and believe me, it's not funny. Any kind of crowded room or serious background noise and it becomes very difficult to hear a word. Tinnitus is no laughing matter either. For the sake of a couple of earplugs?!
...exactly my point! Thanks for making it so clearly - all the best - TMF
I have exactly the same problem, I can't hold a conversation or hear very well if there is background noise and have permanent tinitus. I also have hearing aids, which help, but don't fully alleviate the problem. I wish the wind roar issues were known and made public when I started out. It would be interesting to see how much more noise they reduce compared to foam plugs. I must give them a call as they are only 5 minutes away from my work 😀👍
Good review. I have had custom ear plugs for a few years now and just to make you aware, as your ears are one of the pieces of anatomy that continue to grow, you'll need to change them around every 5 years. I also have the audible set for sat nav, music and comms. As I also skydive, even though the freefall is for only 70+ seconds, ear plugs are essential if you don't want to damage your hearing. I sometimes reach speeds of over 200mph and the helmets are much thinner than motorcycle helmets.
Wow, thanks for the feedback oofafoo - 200mph...rather you than me!!!
Good Day MF.Thank you for giving such thorough attention to hearing protection. Visited Motorcycle Live at the NEC on opening day and stopped at Custom Fit Guards and David prepared the moulds and ordered my preferred earpiece. Have since received a call from Lucy at their office as there was a query..outstanding customer service and so helpful. As you suggested I mentioned MF and (with no blood test involved) they gave me 10% discount- Thank you!
Incidentally, an Audiologist recently told me that the din in Wagamama on a Saturday night out was beyond an acceptable level which could impact on hearing so I will get double value from my protectors!
Thank you for all the support you bring with your channel.
Crikey - must remember my earplugs when I next fancy some noodles!
I had this done at the NYC Motorcycle show. However, I had them put on the ends of a HDef ear buds. I then plug that in to my radar detector. They are amazing. Great videos !
Thanks Arthur - and yes these earplugs I got can also be moulded around earbud inserts for your GPS, music or whatever, great bits of kit! Thanks for watching - all the best - TMF
Full disclosure: I'm not (yet) a motorcyclist.. however as a drummer having done many a live show over the years, the same rules naturally apply to tinnitus. It is no joke. My father who was also a drummer throughout the late 60's and 70's.. lives with tinnitus every day. For 50+ years. His insistence on earplugs when i started was the best thing I did as a musician. It has been proven to have very real links to long term depression and huge impacts on mental health if you suffer from severe tinnitus. I know this is just an anecdotal youtube comment, but please consider this and similar opinions- great video TMF.
+NNICKKK Thanks for the feedback NNickkk good to hear this applied elsewhere too...
Yeah, I've had a bad case of Tinnitus before due to ear wax impaction, it was only for a couple of weeks but they were the most stressful few weeks of my life, I ended up contemplating suicide at one point due to how bad it got. Thankfully I've never had anything like that again, it seems like I just have the ears that don't do well with getting rid of ear wax unfortunately, which also makes it difficult to use ear plugs because of the ear wax buildup. Though, I will say, these look like very good options.
Thanks for bringing this to everyone's attention. Not only have I ridden for years but I am also a professional pilot and have used ear plugs in my helmets and under my headsets for years in the cockpit and still have very good hearing. The key is finding the right fit so you feel comfortable, they work and you don't leave home without them. Another well informed video :-)
+Terry Boaz Thank you Terry and 100% agree...
Lovely chap, he sorted my out today at the South Bikefest at Goodwood. Look forward to receiving mine in the post, I have endless bother getting normal earplugs to fit me.
Excellent - I hope you mentioned The Missenden Flyer (as rumour has it he gives you a discount!)....I'm awaiting a new set as we speak, I've got the fancy ones coming with the built in earphones.....still using my original set daily, have stood the test of time well. Cheers - TMF
I've had bikes for forty years now and the first couple of years I rode without hearing protection, until my first interstate ride, Sydney to Melbourne. I had ringing in my ears or two days afterwards, a sure sign of permanent hearing damage. I've tried most plugs on the market but I'm now on my third set of custom fitted silicon plugs. One suggestion to new comers, always make sure your jaw is relaxed and not clenched while the silicon putty is setting, otherwise there is a chance the plugs will be deformed slightly and not seal as effectively. I had to get one redone afterwards for this reason. When my son started riding this was one of the first accessories I arranged for him, and so too now for his wife!
Great review, coming back to biking after nearly 20 years away and never having used earplugs for biking this has made me realise that ear pugs are a must. I’ve just ordered a pair and will be going for my fitting in the next week or so. 👍🏼
Good stuff - did you mention me?? ;0)
TheMissendenFlyer I purchased them from another company before seeing your vlog. 😀
Bother!
what did he say?
Very good - I think you're the third now to come up with that one....
Ha ha ha can you hear me?
lol
UA-cam does automatic closed captioning =)
I had a set fitted by Richard a few weeks ago and love them. I went for the driver model which have headphones built in and opted for solid block without the filter as I do a lot of motorway miles and wanted minimal noise.
The sound quality for satnav and music is superb as is the comfort straight out of the box.
The are very quiet but I've not had any issues yet with not hearing the road around me.
A brilliant service from the company as well.
Hi David - Great stuff, Richard is a nice fella and certainly knows his stuff, glad they get a thumbs up from you too (not that this is an advert by the way, just like the product/service).....Thanks for stopping by, all the best - TMF
I've been wearing earplugs when riding for years. I've tried various types of earplugs but always seem to go back to the foam ones. I snip about 5mm off the narrow end to get the best fit. I buy in bulk (packs of 30) at my local hardware store and keep them in my tail bag.
Great Vid, as ever. Always wear ear protection. After suffering damaged hearing in the 80's I need to take care of whats left, so I never ride without.
Thanks for the kind words...and I'm with you, not worth risking your senses by not wearing this stuff....
I received my earplugs on Thursday & I am very happy with them, all thanks to you, so many thanks.
Richard duly notified!
Btw I went for the standard version and they work just fine with my Scala communications gadget.
I wouldn't say that "normal ' conversation is possible without taking one of the earplugs out but raising my voice seems to help 8-))
+Keith Ward Good stuff, thanks for watching Keith and I'm glad the ear plugs are working out for you. All the best - TMF
Another great video! I have been using similar earplugs from Ultimate Ear for a few years now, wouldn't ride without them. Used while commuting, touring etc, and as comfortable and quiet as the day I bought them, I also use an Interphone com system to talk to Beloved, and the speech is perfect while wearing the plugs, but the wind noise is still minimal, well recommended! Also I was given the original moulds, so if I need replacements, I just pop them back to Ultimate Ear.
Yes custom ear plugs are the way to go if you're a regular rider, can't beat them for comfort - just have to be careful not to loose them! Thanks for stopping by once again - TMF
Good Video that puts over an Important Message.
I have had Tinnitus since I left the Army in 1978, it is very unpleasant, there is never a completely quiet time
I have also go 60% loss of hearing and wear hearing Aids, but I still need Ear Plugs as I still get the Wind Noise due to it Tone/ Frequency.
Though partially Deaf I am sensitive to High Tones.
So I am the perfect reason to wear Ear Plugs and confirm all that you are saying to be true.
Bad news Bob - and thanks for the endorsement...all the best - TMF
Those molded ear plugs remind me of stage ear monitors. That's definitely something I'll keep in mind for later. Thanks for the information.
Yes a similar sort of thing minus the speakers of course....
It is amazing how much the motorcycle/windshield/ helmet can make a difference in sound. My ST1300 with an aftermarket shield and a Shoei Neotec is deafening without earplugs. The same helmet on a Kawasaki Z1000 isn't so bad. Still loud, but not annoying. I wear molded earplugs either without filters or with speakers. The ones that Ii have have the speakers inline and tubing comes through the earplugs. They are much easier to clean out and the driver does not have to fit in the plug itself. They do require replacement, every five or so years, but we'll worth it and mine cost more than these in the US. It does make using communicators more difficult since ai have to use the headphone jack.
Guy at work pretty much told me what you put in your video so I picked up a pack of 4 foam plugs. Took them into work and I almost had one of the guys convinced that they were expensive chewing gum. He had one (clean not used) in his hand and would've put it in his mouth had I not started laughing. You're right though, the foamies do block out pretty much everything but it beats going deaf if you can't afford custom ones.
Have been using fitted earplugs for years (Ultimate ear.com)and just recently bought a new pair by just sending off the original molds. Very comfortable on long rides and allows you to hear your satnav or music/radio.
Nice one!
Thoroughly enjoyed this review mate, so much so I'm booked in with Richard next Wednesday, it'll be good to wear a proper job that has an element of comfort. I'm off on the new bike over the other side next month so a review of the plugs and the bike must be done. Thanks for this mate......I'm also glad I mentioned your name. Kind regards.
Beans! Great to hear form you - I'm still waiting for that GSA video?????
I've used the Auritech earplugs for 100,000+ miles and they are also very good. Like these customfitguards they have a filter which allows you to hear and be aware of your engine, surroundings and intercom etc. whilst filtering out all the dangerous and tiring windnoise. Better than foam plugs which just muffle everything.
agreed - more comfortable as well!
Hi MF, from personal experience I would encourage all motorcyclists to use ear plugs. I have been riding motorcycles for 40 years, unfortunately back then hearing damage on motorcycles was not really discussed. I never used ear plugs. Unfortunately since 1992 I have had a constant high pitched whistle in my left ear, (tinnitus) and subsequent hearing loss. As you say no cure! You have all been warned! I use auritech motorcycle ear plugs which I find comfortable. Well done for highlighting an important issue. I do wish you'd keep more to the centre of the road when passing "parked" vehicles - one of them may be backing out. Just gives you a split second more to take avoiding action. Great video. Kind regards, Jon.
Thanks Jon, glad you concur with my general point...and thanks for the advice, always happy to take on board hints from those wiser than myself...all the best - TMF
Best hearing protection is the one you are wearing. I know I would misplace these but with the cheap foam (-33db) ones I have a package of 12 in the tank bag so I just put another one in. After learning how to properly insert them I can wear them all day and find I am more rested at the end of the day. My longest day on a motorcycle was 1400+ km and I couldn't imagine doing it without hearing protection.
Yeah I agree, I wouldn't feel right riding without some sort of protection (and those foam ones are fine, just I find them uncomfortable after protracted time in the saddle) - as you say, it's all about getting them inserted right in the first place....cheers for watching - TMF
Go to a hearing aid centre and get a mould taken and get dedicated sound plugs made for your own ears.The best money spent.
I've never had a problem with wind noise around my helmet, the problem is around my ears.
Very interesting video TMF I hardly ever wear ear plugs and I've been riding for 3 years.... this video has seriously made me think if I am or have done permanent damage to my hearing. I don't just ride the bike without ear plugs I normally ride with music on aswell 😣 seriously going to start wearing ear plugs as I commute everywhere on my bike. So hopefully from the less deaf future me thank you for doing this video! 👍👍👍
Good idea Matt, you don't notice deterioration whilst you are chipping away bit by bit - good idea to start getting some protection from now on I reckon....
Very interesting. I haven't road for 20 odd year's..why I don't now is personal. But back then never considered ear plugs, I deff will when I get back on two wheels with an engine. great bit of knowledge I wouldn't of thought of. nice one fella 👍
Cheers - and yes, get yourself protected, you only have one ear after all....hang on...
+TheMissendenFlyer
yer it will be a thing I will very much think about..like I said been 20 years since I had my own bike so alot has changed, my old Suzuki GT x5 200 looked so minimal compared to what is about now. think it was made late 70s I still have the Haynes manual some where. so I'm very slack on my knowledge of bikes becouse been awhile. thus these are very good for learning a thing or two. trying to catch the TT this week on tv..that's amazing stuff..I guess you've been there. sad about the two guys who died on Sunday though. ride safe fella.
Enjoyed that one, mate. I had some made a couple of years ago from Ultimate Ears. Made for the bike, and exactly the same process as yours. The thing is, they do fit super-perfect to your own ears, but I found when putting the helmet on, they can sometimes get moved very, very slightly, which breaks the seal. I now only use them for the band, when on stage, and for that, they are incredible. As you say, filter out the harmful frequencies, in my case, the bass frequencies, the same as wind buffeting freq's, and they do a really good job. Cheers RV
Hey RV - yes interesting one that, so far so good but I have noticed that my Arai does tend to knock them when I put them on, but not enough to dislodge 'em yet. ...been loving your Wales trip videos by the way - shame the sun didn't shine a bit more for you eh?
Yeah, that's the same, just a bit annoying when they get knocked. For what they are intended for though, absolutely brilliant. Do the job just perfect.
Hey, thanks for watching. It was a superb weekend, and yes, it did rain a bit, but once all the WP clothing is on, it's not so bad. Certainly didn't spoil our fun, or the riding. Thanks
+TheMissendenFlyer Yep, tinnitus for me for some time now. I had custom plugs made via a Doctor's referral and can now ride all day with no discomfort.
I am on my second set now and they took new moulds which showed that my ear canals had changed shape slightly so it's worth getting it checked each time.
One other thing to look at is the brand of helmet you wear as they can be significantly different with Arai being about the worst and Schuberth the best. How well the visor fits is also crucial.
Great points as ever Geoff - especially regarding the fit of the visor, should have mentioned that one....I've never tried a Schuberth, maybe I should go that way once I turn 50 and get myself a flip-up for use on the GS, then I will have properly signed up to the "old mans" club! All the best....TMF
Ha ha!
I can't wear the foamy types. Like the rest of me, my ear canals are a bit twisted, lol. So I went and had custom plugs made, similar what you have. Very nice decibel reduction and quite comfy. Really worth the cost. Cheers :)
Yes those foamy ones can be a faff to get in place properly (I find they sometimes work there way back out again too)....custom plugs are the way to go for maximum comfort and fit for sure....thanks for stopping by - TMF
Some other research I heard second hand was that reduced wind + road noise (particularly as a result of more luxurious cars) has a direct relationship to driving at higher speeds with more (misplaced?) confidence.
I've got a pair of NoNoise motorsports which worked well trackside at MotoGP but I tend to forget to use them on the bike as they didn't 'seem' to do a whole lot. I used them more when I had a slip-on exhaust on the old bike. I have sometimes had brief tinnitus effects after some rides this year so I better get back into it.
Yes better to be safe than sorry - and interesting point on the riding faster thing, there is logic to that isn't there....ride safe! TMF
I use foam ear plugs. Buy a box and use the pair for the day. Toss them after the ride. Have my hearing tested every year and all is well.
Yes those foam plugs do work pretty well, just that I personally find them a little uncomfortable after an extended period of time....
I bought a box of 12 silicone ear plugs from Home Bargains for £1.99 I started using them about a week ago, it makes for a much more enjoyable and less fatiguing ride.
I never ride without ear plugs.....
Foam earplugs become very painful after more than one day on a multi-day tour on my motorcycle. I am looking for molded earplugs that will hopefully solve that problem.
Really well-filmed video. Unfortunately, I could not hear a word of it as motorcycling sent me deaf years ago, but I am sure you had something interesting and informative to say.....
Well done - I think you're number 4 with that same joke ;0) still hugely funny of course....
Perhaps I should not blame the motorcycling......it could be all those Motorhead concerts - LOL !!
...can't have helped I would think....
I bought a £20 set of pinlock ear plugs, similar filter built in ie. cuts out the worst of it but you can still hear certain frequencies. I find they work very well.
Good stuff Mark - thanks for stopping by....TMF
Like always good video. Earplugs were one of the first accessories I bought after I got my bike last year because every now and then I need to use some Motorway. I also heard that custom plugs should be the best you can get. In Germany you could get them at nearly every good hearing aid shop (hope that's the right word, where old people go to get a hearing device... ;-)) but they are the most expensive. I could recommend the Alpine Motosafe, they cost you around 20 bucks, are good to wear and get two different filters with it.
Cheers MyQuap....thanks for the info and thanks for stopping by, all the best - TMF
I carry ear plugs (pair of eargasm plugs and some foam ones), but since I put on the "baby windshield" extender thing, I don't get any crazy buffeting anymore. My 1980's windshield was just beyond tolerating and buffeting was hitting me right above the eyes. Much louder than without a fairing at all. In those cases, absolutely, earplugs all the way.
Hi, great topic. Would be interesting to know the decibel amount the different ear plugs reduce. According to the USA Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) any noise above 85 dB represents risk to permanent hearing loss. As you say, the louder the sound the greater risk with increased exposure... with dB/hrs recommended at, 90/8, 92/6, 95/4, 97/3, 100/2, 105/1, 110/30 minutes, 115/15 minutes. So, the level of sound on a bike can typically read at over 100 dBs perhaps as much as 115 or more especially with loud exhaust, where ear plugs have been measured to reduce dBs by 15-35 dBs depending on the type. Disposable foam ones can reduce on average up to 35 dBs, so are good, but filter out other frequencies/sounds, not harmful to the rider and can make conversations and other practical hearing needs difficult. Whereas, specific frequency targeting hearing protection/plugs may let more sound through, and be more practical for general hearing needs, their dB protection can be far less at 15-20 dBs. When the target is to keep sound below 85 dBs, some of these hearing devices may not keeping sound below that, as in the case of a 110 dB bike on the highway, using 20 dB hearing plugs, where the dB exposure is still at 90 dB for the rider. Accordingly, the 85 dB threshold must be achieved, and the only way to know for sure is to measure dB exposure, and dB protection offered by the particular device. Most hearing devices will offer a dB protection number 15-35, though one should confirm if the particular manufacturer has been shown to provide accurate dB reduction figures. Also, dB measuring devices are quite readily available and not very expensive. An important topic, and one every motorcyclist should be keenly aware of. Well done!
Thanks for the kind comments - much appreciated! All the best - TMF
Thanks for the info! We really don't realize how bad it can be.
...it's so easy to think "just this once wont hurt" isn't it...
+TheMissendenFlyer I don't even think about it before going for a ride, I just want to ride! I realize how harmful it is after the ride.
exactly....too late!
Sorry. Great review and very important subject. Just back from the motorland alcaniz gp. 2500mls on a blackbird. I didn't have ear protection as the foam one's give me a headache. The event was noisy but the windnoise I will hopefully never have to indure again. I was going to look at I'm sure a similar product from gun shops. They appear similar in that they are moulded into the ear but still allow certain sounds (talking etc) but eliminate damaging levels. You refered to your plugs as earie the way they cancelled the noise towards the end of the review and my inner child couldn't let it go.... again sorry😎
Not sure what you're apologising for Gerald! But I'm sure none was necessary....
I needed earplugs when I still had my 2006 RT with my Schuberth C3 helmet. But ever since I have the new RT and the BMW Evo 6 helmet, I don't need them anymore. Of course, the new RT has very good wind protection, but that helmet is very comfortable and quiet.
Fair enough - I always use earplugs with any helmet though, just to be on the safe side...
had mine made at the NEC three weeks later they arrived now don't leave the house without mine, money well spent.
Interesting thoughts about hearing damage. Would love to see you have a test ride on the new Africa Twin and hear your thoughts.
Yeah, it gets rave reviews, would love to have a go on one sometime....TMF
I use ultimate ear they are great used them for about 10 years in various types don’t enemies know there in ,until you catch the cable on the audio version lol brilliant
"Quite "eery" how they cut out the wind noise" - nice one 👍
Met with Richard yesterday for my fitting great guy and yes see what you mean by the under water feeling from the Silicone mold. Looking forward to receiving my CF Autos and giving them a try on my GS :) mentioned I saw them on your channel.. thanks for the recommendation :) great vids as always
Did he give you a discount??
No fraid not
Boooh!!!!
I try to remember the plugs most trips of more then 15 minutes. But I forget occasionally. And my hearing has gotten much worse since I (re)started riding 3 years ago. I think it is time for these!
I can't ride my bike without plugs in. I treat it like putting on a seatbelt. My ears have rung a bit as long as I can remember and I don't intend to make it worse
Yes I'm the same - I wish I'd thought of that for the video. Cheers and thanks for watching and stopping by - all the best - TMF
I tend to use a personal stereo to listen to which are noise cancelling.... Been riding for more than 25 years and my hearing is fine. I've had all sorts of bikes and currently have 3 bikes all with full systems.
Fair enough!
Very nice ! I will have to check into these !
Thanks for stopping by!
Interesting vid, thanks TMF. I'm an ear plug user for 95% of my rides, all but the odd 5 minute local ride to the shops. I use the foam laser-lite's but they do give me that fuzzy slightly closed off from the outside world feeling, which isn't great. From what you say, these go some way to preventing that. I'll give them a look. Cheers.
Thanks, glad you found the video of interest - all the best - TMF
If I know I'll be on the bike longer the 10 minutes, I put earplugs in, and at the moment, I'm using the PinLock and Alpine earplugs. So far their the best 'off the shelf' earplug that I've came across but I'm hoping to get a set of these in the near future :)
I think as long as you have protection then all is well, these custom fit ones are great from a comfort point of view (at least so far!)...
i've got an old fazer 600 with a viper can, and there's no way i can ride without earplugs, it would be agony! nothing to do with playing drums in rock bands mind!
Back in the day '70s, we didn't think about our hearing. Some 40 years plus later rides suffer hearing loss and tinnitus. If you don't know what tinnitus is, look it up. You should do everything you can to not develop it.
I had a pair of custom built earplugs made for me about 15 years ago, and I wear them every time I go out on the bike. I am convinced that my hearing would be ruined by now, had I not been wearing them. For 20 years before, I had been using the foam variety, which worked ok, but not as well as the custom built ones. Like yours, they have a filter fitted and they come with a leather zip up bag. As an experiment, I recently went out on the bike without any earplugs and I lasted about one minute! The noise was unbearable! Come on kids, you know it makes sense!
100% agree - wouldn't ride any of my bikes without earplugs ever.....
thanks for the heads up on these. they look and sound great, ill definitely be getting some. keep the vids coming
Will do - thanks for stopping by and for the kind words. All the best - TMF
Bonus tip I was given was to wear them when swimming, especially when abroad in kids holidays!!!!
Another super video by the Missenden Flyer! Good man!
Thank you....
Good vlog once again - makes you wonder how bikers who don't wear helmet protection manage. I've had custom ear plugs from ultimate ear that allow fantastic sound proofing whilst allowing you to listen to music as well. On rare times I then didn't wear the plugs found the noise unbearable.
Unlike Richy, don't use them whilst playing in a band - how envious am I - as if riding a motorcycle wasn't cool enough on its own!! 🤓 🤓
Indeed! ...well I do play guitar if that ups my coolness factor to the Richy levels.....
I developed tinnitus in my late fifties after riding bikes most of my life. It's a high pitched whistle due to high frequency loss. I'm sure it was caused by too many motorway miles in my twenties and early thirties wearing cheap helmets and no ear defenders. I always arrived everywhere deaf, but I didn't worry about it because my hearing seemed to return to normal after twenty minutes or so.
..sounds like a bit of a classic case in point! Thanks for watching and stopping by, all the best - TMF
good video as always. I have been using the Auritech ear plugs for a couple of years. they have a metal filter thing like yours and a metal case. one size fits all but not bad for a tenner
Wow, sounds like excellent value....
Good video and information. I think that you could have put a bit more weight behind the lose of hearing issue.
I remember an article in one of the bike mags many moons ago on this subject. It basically said that at 70mph, Motorway Speeds, the db is over 100 and can be 110 with certain types of helmet. This backed up by similar information about hearing lose.
Wear your ear plugs at all times.
+marcusFZ6 Agreed!
Just bought some Bose noise cancelling earbuds. Considerably more effective than the foam plugs, and more comfortable too. Expensive, though...
...and there-in lies the rub!
Have an appointment on Thursday with Richard, mentioned you and he offered me a discount.
Good man!
Can't get them here , too far North . Excellent Idea , ear protection is a must .
Really? Too bad....there are other makes available of course, the issue I guess is getting the impressions made...
Hello, TMF. Great review as usual. What's the update after close to 2 years? Noise attenuation? Comfort still the same? Wear and tear of inserts? Are you still using them? What was the initial price? Does the silicone crack? Etc Perhaps do little update video? Food for thought. Cheers
Yep still use them everyday and going strong...perhaps I should do an update!
I wear the max-lite ear plugs, best if you have a narrower ear canal. The important thing is to fit them properly: a youtube search.
Agreed - cheers Steven
This is exactly what I have been looking for....thank you!
I have on and off been looking for custom ear plugs and have been using the home made R&G custom plugs that you make yourself, but they only last a few months with average results, and its a bugger if the mold goes wrong!
Have spoken to a couple of places but never really happy with the 3-4 weeks waiting time or the prices, so I will definitely give custom-fit-guards a try
Glad to be of service! ...I hadn't come across the R&G plugs, DIY custom ear plugs...wild idea!
I've been meaning to get some earplugs for the past year. I did try some foam ones when I first got my Street Triple last year (first big bike I've had) , but the stock can is so quiet, it felt really disconcerting not being able to hear the engine. I've since got a rather loud after market can, and along with the wind noise, I definitely should be wearing earplugs. I'm going to look in to these fitted earplugs more, so thanks for the video!
You're welcome but do get some protection! All the best - TMF
Purely because I'm Army we get early defence given to us, usually it's just the yellow foam type, they've now moved with the times and given us the 'surefire ep4', both of which I've ridden with, the surefire ones are epic and really comfy, I think they retail for about 20 quid, if anyone fancies a semi permanent solution. TMF, as always, good vid mate. I have a gs and I'm local (Wendover). Ride sometime?
Cheers Coops359 - what colour is your GS, I'll look out for you!
Apologies for the late reply, been out the country! I believe its called arctic blue, correct me if im wrong haha. Same wierd year as yours (the between 13/14 model). Ride safe mate.
Very interesting indeed! Once again unreal to see my local routes and roads, one day I will see you!! Haha.
I've always used howard leight 'laser lights' as disposables but sometimes it can take me around 10 minutes to get one in my right ear it drives me mad! I think my right ear hole was created without a spirit level... custom ones could be of interest!
Hehe....yes the custom ones are certainly quick and easy to insert, and are much more comfortable once in place....I'll keep my eyes peeled for you, don't forget to give me a nod if you see me....TMF
I live no more than a few miles away in High Wycombe.
I will also keep in eye out for you guys.
At the moment I have about 20 pairs of those Laser Lights to use up, I find the trick is to really squeeze and roll them tight then slightly wet the plug (yes a quick lick like you would a stamp!) just before you place it in, this helps avoid them catching, bending up and pushing themselves out.
Haha sweet dude. You ridden the A413 out towards Buckingham / or even Milton Keynes? I can't stop riding it.... yeah I'm on the laser lights too, I do really squeeze them up by rolling them, my left one goes in first time everytime.. my right one can be a complete pain!! Haha. Nice one.
...I've done the A413 many times (features in a few of my earlier vids) - I agree, great road.....
My right ear has 1/2 volume as left ear. Result from drunken driver.No hemet I wouldn't be here today.
very informative video and will be sorting a set out. well done and well edited.
Thanks Paul...
I have used all types of ear plugs including the bespoke ones and but none come close to wearing Bose QuietComfort 30 Noise-Cancelling Bluetooth Earphones. Its keeps all of the important sounds like engine and traffic but significantly reduces the wind buffeting noise. Takes a bit of getting used to when wearing themand putting helmet on , but my shoei gtair is fine with the bose. They are cordless and battery life is around 10hrs. If anyone decides to buy these get them from JL and for an extra £35 they offer 3 years no quibble return. Only downside they cost £200
Since watching this I got some inexpensive but proper bikers ear plugs. I find wearing ear protection makes riding less tiring.
At first I used my industrial plugs from work but they blocked too much sound and I couldn't hear the bike.
Yes I always wear earplugs.....
Yes.
Video done.
Silicon plugs are the best on the cheap (go to boots). Recently I use noise cancelling Bluetooth headphones by Bose which make riding a pleasure plus you can still hear some music if you like this sort of thing. I wish I knew about it earlier as my hearing is getting worst.
+10secondsrule I assume the Bose are in ear "headphones"? I've wondered about ANR on the bike, we use it in the aeroplane all the while and I can attest that it is brilliant.....
TheMissendenFlyer hhh yes they are, otherwise I’d look like a complete pillock;) the number I believe is qc30. Comfort depends on a helmet and head shape but it’s ok for me. And they have adjustable volume and noise cancelling as well on the short cable so it’s easy to reach while riding. Particularly effective with mechanical noise like engine not bad with the wind either. Expensive but worth the price.
Great Topic!! Congrats man! Big hug from Brazil!
Thank you very much...and good luck with the Olympics!
As far as statistics are concerned, I wonder if they factored in that helmet design has improved significantly in recent years. When I upgraded my 10 years old HJC for a Shark Speed-R, I noticed a huge improvement in noise reduction. Having used a few very ancient Bell helmets myself, I think a similar comparison could be made with a 10 year old helmet vs 30 year old one.
Since rider hearing damage has been attributed mostly to wind noise, I wonder just how accurate or relevant those statistics are for today's generation of riders who have access to much better helmets.
+surg23 Yes you may be onto something there, I'm sure helmets do make a difference....though in my experience even the so called quiet ones still let through loads of noise - I imagine enough to damage your hearing if you're not protecting it in any other way.
Hmm, well that's interesting. I'm beginning to think that these sound levels might even be open to interpretation or be subject to how receptive one's own hearing is. Personally, I've never felt any discomfort from wind turbulence and would rate it quite low compared to other sources, perhaps that's just the obscure nature of it. Even when factoring in the accumulative effect of decibels over time, it just doesn't add up, at least for me it doesn't.
As a yardstick experiment, I took my MX helmet out for a spin on the highway, and holy shizz was it loud! Like insanely loud. After just 5 minutes I had to turn around because I couldn't take it anymore. With my Speed-R back on, I would estimate a good 300-400% reduction in noise over the MX helmet. After that madness I got to thinking about all these SM riders wearing MX helmets on UA-cam, surely they must be all be deaf or all of them wear earbuds.
I reckon they should have a good sized fan at motorcycle outlets that could act as a wind tunnel so one can gauge the effectiveness of the helmets sound-proofing. That would be super helpful imo.
Like it :0)
Hi, this is a serious comment and not a joke about hearing loss, but the sound seems to stop at 2:42 for a couple of minutes.
Yes very poinient. I worked in engineering industry most of my life. Over 30 years.
Inspire of using ear plugs and ear defenders I still contracted tinnitus due to working in a noisy environment. The company did get eventually a set like you suggested. But it was to late the damage had been done.
I oils have thought a helmet would offer some hearing protection.
It's not necessarily, the notice you produce, it's dynamic sound being produced by others and reflective sound being generated by things we do as individuals or die to our activities we undertake generating noise or sound.
Hope this helps.
Secondly ref helmets why is there a shelf life to a helmet is 5 years to replace your helmet. I s this just to generate more income by manufactures due to fashion. Or is there a genuine reason to do this that they degrade overtime. And are thus unstable.
If you ever get moulded again it's well worth holding your mouth/jaw wide open while they set... I put a block between my teeth at the front... Gives you a tighter mould as your ear canal is widest with your jaw open... Nothing better than a set of moulded earplugs/headphones though :)
...bother wish I'd known that....! (though to be fair these are a pretty tight fit)...
A video about hearing loss, where the audio disappears at 2:43! That had me wondering for a while...
The noise of that Panigale's fuckin' stunning. I just checked the price for the earplugs, on the expensive side just for the standard block ones and those cheaper ones don't give road awareness.
Thanks for watching and for stopping by! All the best - TMF
I don't find earplugs comfortable so I've never used them in 40 years of riding and my hearing is just fine. It may not be quite as sharp as it was in my younger days but that is more than likely down to age than anything else.
Well everyone to their own Sam, I think you'd find custom fitted earplugs are very comfy, but if you're not a fan of protection so far then fair enough! Thanks for watching anyway, all the best - TMF
Interesting. I use the foam ones for every ride since the helmet noise is too much on most helmets. I soak them in water before each use with my water bottle and find that seals them in properly. They don't work properly for me dry. I find them absolutely fine until like you say after 2+ hours when the pressure on your ear canals starts to get a little irritating and your ears need a break from them.
+Lorne Scott-Wilson I've never heard of soaking them in water before use, interesting idea!
I soak them and then squeeze the water out so that they are damp and find that the seal and sound damping qualities are twice as good as the dry ones. Give it a try sometime and let me know if you notice the difference.
I will do just that!
I personally never ride with out earplugs and i always make the wife wear them on the back. I use Custom fit guards and apart from a few teething issues, i love them customer service is great do recommend them. Next show we go to going to get some made for the wife :)
Yes I'm a big fan of mine and as you say, great service from Custom Fit Guards....highly recommended...
Thanks again bud if just sent custom guards an email. I worked in the building trade for years my ears don't need anymore damage cheers
Tell 'em I sent you, maybe they'll give you a discount! :0)
Great idea, much better than the crappy bits of foam. Personally I just remove the screen from the bike, much quieter.
hi TMF how are you getting on with these I'm thinking of getting a set , and wondered what you long term impression was?
I always wear ear plugs, and I also wear a scarf tucked into my helmet to cut down on the wind noise too.
Good idea, like it.....cheers for stopping by - TMF
Next time you're riding a bike with a screen, lift your head up as high as you can and notice that most of the wind noise disappears. I think this is because helmets work best in free flowing air rather than in the turbulence caused by the screen.
I think it depends on the helmet and screen in question - the screens I use only produce clean air (I use the MRA Vario screen) so it is lovely and quiet behind it but noisy if you pop your head up into the dirty stuff...