Re: Headlights & earplugs

["Neil Lindsey" <neil@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Funny you should ask about earplugs.  Not too long ago I contemplated
getting custom-fitted (molded) earplugs from a hearing specialist, but I
choked at the prices ($75 - $100+).

I just returned from a 2-week trip and I wasn't very impressed with the
performance of the earplugs I was using.  They were tapered foam (I think
they used to have some wax in them too) and you crush them before inserting,
after which they expand to fill the ear canal.  They're shaped like a
miniature bell.  They only cost a couple of bucks at the drugstore.  I found
them a pain to use (but they worked fine once in place).  They tended to get
dirty quickly too (what with the crushing requirement).

I'm currently trying two different types.  The supplier gave me a sample
pair of each to try out.

One pair is silicone (similar in shape to the foam ones I tried earlier) and
there is a 'button' on the back that you press to elongate the earplug
during insertion.  They seem to work fine and are quite comfortable.  They
are rated at 28 db SNR (sonic noise reduction as I recall, but don't ask me
what that really means), or 26 db NRR (noise reduction rating).  The box is
labelled 'QUIET' and they are made by Howard Leight (whoever they are).

The other pair is apparently the one preferred by many riders (according to
one of the guys at the supplier anyway).  They are called EARshrooms and are
made by Aearo Company (?).  The small mushroom end is made of foam and the
'stalk' is made of plastic.  They are easy to insert and come in two sizes
to accomodate differences in ear canal size.  They are rated at 32 db NRR.
These plugs can potentially be inserted quite deep into the ear canal and,
although they fit comfortably, I was a bit concerned about the rigidity of
the 'stalk' and the proximity to my eardrum.  They definitely won't fall out
anyway.

Both are dirt cheap, even though they are re-useable -- something like 40 -
50 cents a pair.  I ordered a half dozen pairs of each (they're bound to get
lost and I'm sure some friends would like them).

So where did I get them?  Well don't make the same mistake as I did and go
to your local drugstore.  What they sell is crap and costs way too much
(comparitively speaking of course).  I got these at an industrial supply
store (Acklands in my case).  Medical or safety supply outlets would also be
candidates.

The bottom line here is that there are probably a gazillion different brands
and models to choose from, once you find the right store that is.  So don't
worry if you don't happen to spot the ones I mention.

I suppose there is room for some debate as to what types of earplugs are
best for motorcycling, particularly in terms of overall sound reduction and
frequency selectiveness.  The most important thing to remember is to use
them however, as anything is better than nothing at highway speeds.

Neil





- ----- Original Message -----
From: <colin.spencer@xxxxxxxxxx>
To: <st@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
Sent: July 27, 2000 4:05 PM
Subject: Headlights & earplugs


> Message to all those still riding round with just the one beam. I've just
got in from riding in the dark for the first time with "TWO" headlights.
This has to be the best and cheapest mod you will ever make to your Sprint.
> Cost for relays is £14, two minutes to fit and no adjustment needed to
beam height.
> Now the earplug question. I use "Bilsom" foam ear plugs but after 5 - 10
minutes riding the things usually work their way out of my ears. Anybody
else have this problem and any recommendations out there ?
> Cheers
>
> Col
>
>
> Col
>
> --------------------
> talk21 your FREE portable and private address on the net at
http://www.talk21.com
>
>
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