02-14-2015, 02:22 PM
After my last post, I happened across a copy of Motorcycle Trader with an article about hearing damage from wind noise on motorcycles. I can't post a link to it, because I can't find it on their website, which is [url=http://www.trademotorcycles.com.au/]here. I wouldn't search too hard; there was a fair bit of spruiking for Earmold and an attempt to debunk the science with anecdote.
However, these bits of the article are worth quoting:
Quote:Hearing experts say the quality and snugness of your helmet, riding position or a windshield fitted to your helmet will not reduce noise caused by wind turbulance. (My emphasis)
and
Quote:Wind noise while riding at highway speeds can measure upwards of 103dB, which is comparable to a lawn mower and if you fang it around at 120km/h it's the same as using a chainsaw (106dB).
According to the Decibel Exposure Time Guidelines, permanent damage starts after 7.5 minutes at 103dB and less than four minutes at 106dB.
So there you have it: the prudent motorcyclist, interested in retaining sufficient hearing to hear his wife's or her husband's every word, will use some sort of noise reduction strategy.
However, these bits of the article are worth quoting:
Quote:Hearing experts say the quality and snugness of your helmet, riding position or a windshield fitted to your helmet will not reduce noise caused by wind turbulance. (My emphasis)
and
Quote:Wind noise while riding at highway speeds can measure upwards of 103dB, which is comparable to a lawn mower and if you fang it around at 120km/h it's the same as using a chainsaw (106dB).
According to the Decibel Exposure Time Guidelines, permanent damage starts after 7.5 minutes at 103dB and less than four minutes at 106dB.
So there you have it: the prudent motorcyclist, interested in retaining sufficient hearing to hear his wife's or her husband's every word, will use some sort of noise reduction strategy.