Cheap lens protector - how to

[djslowmo]

I have not found many options for protecting a lens while it's stored on the bike.  I've seen one product and read a couple people say they put their lens in a tube sock but I've never seen a sock that big.  This has been my solution for a while and thought I'd share it.

You us a regular bandana.  I have an HJC CS-12 helmet.

The first step is to tie two normal overhand knots on opposite corners of the bandana.  I found that 3-4" of fabric is good for me.



Then tie the two other corners together.  Making the knot out of as little fabric as possible fits my lens better.


***The length of the knots is what decides how the bandana will hold onto the lens.***

***Also know that most bandanas are not perfectly square.  Do not get frustrated if the knots do not meet at the center line of the lens.  It will still work.***

Now comes the tricky part. 
For terminology here's what I'm going to be calling the parts of the bandana.
-back knot = the knot that connects two opposite corners of the bandana
-cup knot = the larger knots that bring the top and bottom of the bandana into a cup shape to hold the edge of the lens

Take one of the cub knots and grip it around the bottom rim of the lens like so.  The back knot should be facing away from the lens.


Pull  both sides of the bandana around the back ends of the lens so that you get something that looks like this.


Now, with the cup knot that's still free, pull that corner over the top and wrap it under the bottom of the lens so it's on the back side.  Hold the single layer of bandana in place on the side of the lens and pull the top layer over it.  Repeat that on the other side.

Now your lens should look like this


A nice snug little lens that can go in your luggage without you worrying about scuffs or little scratches.  I know these are hard to follow so if anybody really needs it, I could figure out how to make a video.  Give it a try first though.  I'm sure you can figure it out.  I've been using this for my tinted or clear lens in my daily commute to work for a couple months and they both come out scuff free every time. 

If the cup knots keep coming off, just try tying them using more fabric as that will increase the depth of the cup and maybe hold onto the edge of the lens better

[jestercinti]

snug as a bug in a rug.

Well done 

[shonole]

Nice cheap solution.

I have this one, and have zero complaints:
http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com/1/1/69/28917/ITEM/MotoCentric-Mototrek-Visor-Bag.aspx?WT.ac=SLIsearch

[mister]

Um.... why not just use the bag your helmet came in? 

Michael

[k.rollin]

I just ride with a clear visor; if I need a tint, then I put on my sunglasses. Good solution for those who swap visors and don't want to buy a visor bag though. :tup:

[mister]

Another option is... store your visor at home away from other stuff which could rub against it. 

[k.rollin]

Another option is... store your visor at home away from other stuff which could rub against it. 

That works, until you're away from home and need to swap visors because you're now going to be riding at night or you're riding towards the sun and need a tint. This is a storage solution for carrying a spare visor on the bike unless I'm mistaken.

[mister]

Another option is... store your visor at home away from other stuff which could rub against it. 

That works, until you're away from home and need to swap visors because you're now going to be riding at night or you're riding towards the sun and need a tint. This is a storage solution for carrying a spare visor on the bike unless I'm mistaken.

If I can be prepared enough to carry a second visor with me, I am prepared enough to carry one and a pair of sunnies (which take up less room) 

Michael

[Precisi0n]

My jacket has a plush lined inside pocket around the rib area for an extra shield.  Nice feature!

[djslowmo]

A plastic bag might be fine for a perfectly clean lens but I thought some soft cloth would be a better option for a lens that's been used.  But hey, how many new helmets would someone need to buy to keep up with their lens cover habit, just use a garbage bag.  Who wants to write up a how-to on accomplishing that feat? 

My jacket has a plush lined inside pocket around the rib area for an extra shield.  Nice feature!

That is awesome!  What jacket is it?

And I tried sunglasses but they weren't comfortable with my full face helmet.  Pinched into my temples.  I use two lenses because I drive to work during the day, and back at night, and my tank bag is already holding my lunch, lock, etc.  Plus, in the Rapid Transit tank bag, the lens basically takes up zero room.


Incoming post from Mister

Why don't you have a different shaped face and work a day job? 

[mister]

Lens = visor yeah?

No, no need for a difference shaped face or working a day job. All you need is difference glasses.

I too ride to and from work in different light conditions. Sometimes to work dark and home light, sometimes to work light and home dark. I have one specific pair of glasses for my helmet that fits well. I've tried quite a few different types until I found these. I only use them for my helmet and carry a spare set for when at work. helmet glasses in pocket, work glasses out of pocket.

Michael

[Twisted]

Also there are helmets available nowadays like this -

http://www.shark-helmets.com/product.php?sous_gamme=S900&gamme=Sport/route&code_gamme=ROUTE&code_sous_gamme=S900

I have one and find it very useful for when I know I'll be riding in daylight/night. Easier than snapping visors on and off.