2009 Harley-Davidson Ultra Classic Electra Glide - Highway One

I rode several of the 2009 Harley-Davidson touring models up the California coast recently, and I was able to experience their improved capabilities. I'll be writing about each model separately in upcoming articles.

The 2009 touring models are all new from the ground up. Key changes for 2009 include new modular frame, swingarm, engine mounting system, and wheels and tires. With a 'ready to ride' weight of over 800 pounds Harley-Davidson's touring models are massive bikes designed for all day comfort while crossing vast stretches of highway.

Many manufacturers chase the style of the day, but the new 2009 touring models incorporate major improvements while retaining the character and styling that defines Harley-Davidson motorcycles.

I've been looking forward to trying out the Flip Video Mino HD Camcorder for a while. I've seen the non-HD versions of the Mino Flip camera used to capture racetrack action with reasonable results, so I thought that the HD version would be an awesome addition to our photographic equipment kit.

About the Mino Flip HD Camcorder

Flip Mino HD Camera: Sexy? You bet. Good for motorcycle use? Read on...

The camera features digital zoom and an integrated microphone, and can record up to one hour of HD video in the internal 4GB memory. It's small enough to mount just about anywhere. This is one sexy HD video camera, no doubt about it.

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Fulmer Helmets

We met Scott Holbrooks, Vice President of Fulmer Helmets, at the 2008 Cycle World International Motorcycle Show in San Mateo, California. We talked about the need for quality, stylish helmets for budget-minded riders, and Scott gave us the run-down on the Fulmer product line. Fulmer offers a full line of helmets in a variety of styles and graphics. There are many Snell-certified models to choose from, and all carry DOT certification.

The Fulmer AF-S1

The S1 full-face helmet is Snell M2005 certified. The MSRP is USD $89.95, putting it well within the reach of budget-minded riders.

Fulmer S1 full-face helmet in flat black: Photo courtesy of Fulmer Helmets.

Basic Features

• Snell and DOT approved
• EPS padded chin bar
• QR1 quick release shield system
• Ultra plush removable washable interior
• Padded D-Ring retention system
• Adjustable chin vent
• Adjustable “Slider” top intake vents
• Adjustable rear vent/diffuser
• Breath spoiler
• UV clear coating, protecting paint and graphics
• Includes Fulmer helmet sack

Initial check-out

First impressions: The overall construction quality is good. I found some minor detailing issues with the inner breath spoiler—the corner of the breath spoiler popped out of its mounting when reaching in to the face opening to lift the helmet. I couldn't figure out how to re-secure the breath spoiler properly, although I was able to push the tab back in to the original location, it seemed like it would come out very easily, so I'm not sure if this is a defect specific to my helmet or if this was a common problem with this model.

Breath spoiler defect?: I had to push this back in to its original location but I wasn't sure it would stay put for long.

The S1 seems to be fairly light. I'm sure there are lighter helmets to be had, but I was surprised at how light it was. I'm used to low-cost helmets being a bit heavier than this. I credit this to improvements in available materials over the last decade. Helmet weights are dropping.

Inspecting the interior of the helmet, I see a Snell M2005 certification decal. The padding and liner quality is good, and I found no visible stitching problems, blemishes or other flaws.

The helmet includes a nicely made drawstring bag bearing the Fulmer logo, for protection while you aren't wearing the helmet. This is a nice touch, as a helmet bag helps protect the visor and the helmet's finish.