I've been riding since 1962 (!) and just now am thinking of joining the "never ride W/O earplug" crowd........I just bought a beautiful 1999 R1100R with the BMW "factory" windscreen .. the wind noise inside my Shoei Multitec is unbelieveable / so I guess earplugs are the best solution ??
what's the general opinion / what really works...please....thanks !!
from the swamp..
JPFITZ
If you are still reading this thread, I guess you get the picture: our ear canals are as unique as our fingerprints. What works great and is comfortable for one can work lose, or never seat, or be truly uncomfortable for another.
I would suggest you buy SMALL quantities of as many brands/models of "disposable" ear plugs as you can find on the net. Pay attention to all those annoying details of moistening the plugs, lifting the ear lobe with the opposite hand as you insert the rolled up earplug, holding it in place with your index finger while it expands (and, as noted, too fast when hot and very slow when cold.) Also remember to pull out on the chin straps when you put on the helmet so you don't dislodge the plugs. Then perform the "stomp test." If your tromping feet sound like a bass drum in your head, the plugs are doing their job. Better to find this out before you hit the road, DAMHIK.
Custom plugs are not the solution for everyone either. I have two pairs and both are great when a helmet is not in the picture. Actually the left plug always does its job, but the right one is too easily dislodged despite my care in donning the helmet. So I use a disposable plug in the right ear.
I, like many but certainly not all, find earplugs a PIA. But they are worth the hassle, not only to protect your remaining hearing but for the peace they offer you on the road. Unless you are lucky, expect to spend some time and dollars finding the perfect solution for you. As a musician with some hearing loss, I have to tell you if I couldn't find effective ear plugs, I wouldn't ride.