1960s Bell Toptex Shorty Motorcycle Helmet – White with Silver Metal Flake

Posted on by Rob Drews

The Bell -Toptex Shorty helmet debuted in the early 1960s and was popular among motorcyclist through the end of the decade. the low profile and light nature made it a perfect helmet for roaming the cities and country roads on Triumphs, Harleys and small displacement UJMs. The helmet was Snell Memorial Foundation approved, predating DOT ratings and was very similar in style to the Buco Guardian helmets of that day. The shell extends down to about the top of the ear and a vinyl collar in connection with the chin strap secure and protect the rider from excessive wind. A variety of visors and shields were available for the front.

Still trying to figure out the role of “Toptex” in Bell helmets of this era. Originally I figured Toptex simply referred to a shell material, but in patent documents, it seems the name of the company was actually named Bell-Toptex. It seems that in the 70s the company dropped Toptex from the name and or shell material.

1976 Bell RT Helmet

Posted on by Rob Drews

This is one cool old Bell R-T helmet with a unique paint job. The Yellow and black appear to be part of a customization. The white around the perimeter and down the center was most likely the original color. The black striping is actually a decal of sorts and not paint.  The color scheme and layout hearken the Yamaha YZ of that period and my explain why this particular helmet has extra snap heads have been added around the jaw area, perhaps for a face mask?

Sticker size 7 1/8 or 57cm in place as well as SHCA approval. Chin strap stamped BELL R-T 10-76.

 

PERFECTO by SCHOTT model 618 leather motorcycle jacket – Late 1970s

Posted on by Rob Drews

Research I’ve conducted suggests this is a late 1970s model Schott Perfecto 618. Details used to surmise this date include the Talon main zipper, lack of snaps on the collar tips, Lack of internal breast pocket (map pocket). Also the upward closing pocket zippers and label details. Many of these items were changed in the early 80s. YKK zippers were introduced and pocket closing direction were reversed. There is some debate among enthusiasts when the other updates were made. A conversation surrounding about a very similar jacket can be found here on SchottNYC.com  This particular version is made of steer hide. 

Buco Motorcycle Half Helmet

Posted on by Rob Drews

This vintage Buco  helmet seems to be the same shape as the Guardian model, but is not labeled as such on the rear snap. Three snap front for shield and visor attachments. Buco embossed rivets on the exterior for the straps, rear snap is also embossed by the maker. Adjustable inside from 6 1/2 – 8″ Vinyl ear flaps, chin strap and and D ring. This helmet is very comfortable despite not  having  the cloth coated foam padding we are used to in more modern helmets. In fact the only real padding in this helmet is in the very top of the helmet allowing the heavy lid to sit more comfortably on the crown of the head.

The exterior is a blue sparkle paint with the addition of red reflective stickering. I am unsure if the stickers are aftermarket or not.

Vanson Leathers Motorcycle Jacket. Boston, Mass U.S.A.

Posted on by Rob Drews

This Vanson Leathers women’s size 10 motorcycle jacket is expertly crafted using top quality full grain leather. Styling is a good mix of traditional biker and cafe style jacket. racer-esque lines down the front and contour at the midriff. Fully lined with removable vest for extra warmth.

Features:
  • Brass tone Talon zippers through out.
  • Four front pockets
  • snap down collar
  • side compression buckles
  • gusseted shoulders for expansion across the back
  • zippered sleeves
  • removable synthetic vest
This jacket is in good shape. No holes, stains, broken stitching or odors. Only visible signs of wear on shoulders, and back of arms characterized by lightnessin the leather’s color from friction. See photos. Liner in great shape. Doesn’t appear this jacket has ever been down on a motorcycle. Estimated this jacket is from the mid 60s to 70s. 
 
This jacket is currently available, please contact me for more information.