How to - Pinlock Inserts: Info, Fitting & Cleaning

A Pinlock Insert is a thin, transparent lens designed to fit inside a helmet visor, primarily used in motorcycle and motorsports helmets to prevent fogging. It works by creating a double-glazed effect: the insert forms an airtight seal with the visor, trapping a small layer of air between them, which acts as insulation. This helps to prevent temperature differences (like cold air outside and warm air inside the helmet) from causing condensation or fogging on the visor.

Pinlock inserts are made from a special moisture-absorbing material, and they are easy to install, using small pins located on either side of the helmet visor. They can be swapped out or replaced as needed and come in various tints or shades to enhance visibility in different light conditions.

1. Gather the Necessary Tools and Equipment

Before you start, ensure you have:

• A Pinlock insert designed specifically for your helmet visor (Pinlock inserts come in different sizes to match different helmet models).
• A clean, soft cloth to handle the visor and avoid smudging or scratching it. (Optional) Lens cleaner and a microfiber cloth to clean the visor before installation.

2. Remove the Visor from the Helmet

It’s much easier to fit a Pinlock insert with the visor off the helmet. Follow these steps to remove it:

• Consult Your Helmet Manual: Each helmet model may have a different mechanism for detaching the visor. Generally, you’ll find small release levers or clips near the hinge point of the visor.
• Gently Remove the Visor: Once you locate the release mechanism, carefully detach the visor from the helmet.

3. Clean the Visor

It’s essential to clean the visor before installing the Pinlock insert to ensure that no dust, dirt, or smudges are trapped between the visor and the insert.

• What to use: Ideally use a gentle soap with water, but if using a lens cleaner on the visor, spray it on and wipe it clean with a soft, microfiber cloth. Ensure both sides of the visor are free of any debris or smudges.
• Let It Dry: Allow the visor to air dry or use a clean microfibre cloth to avoid streaks.

4. Identify the Pinlock Pins

Visors compatible with Pinlock inserts have two small pins on either side, located near the top or middle of the visor. These pins are adjustable and are designed to hold the Pinlock insert securely in place.

• Check the Orientation: Ensure the pins are oriented in a way that allows you to easily slot the Pinlock insert into place. The pins can be adjusted by rotating them if necessary.

5. Align the Pinlock Insert

The Pinlock insert has a specific shape that fits inside the contour of the visor.

• Peel Off the Protective Film: The insert comes with a protective plastic film on both sides. Peel this off carefully to avoid leaving fingerprints or smudges on the surface.
• Position the Insert: Hold the Pinlock insert by the edges and align it with the pins on the visor. The silicone gasket around the edge of the Pinlock insert should be facing the visor to create an airtight seal.

6. Install the Pinlock Insert

Once the insert is aligned, it’s time to fit it to the visor.

• Insert One Side: Start by gently sliding one side of the Pinlock insert into the pin on that side of the visor.
• Flex the Visor: To fit the other side, you’ll need to slightly flex the visor outward. This creates enough space to place the other side of the Pinlock insert into the opposite pin.
• Secure the Insert: Once both sides are in place, check that the Pinlock insert is centred and the silicone gasket forms a tight seal against the visor. The insert should sit flush against the visor with no gaps.
  
  After installing the Pinlock insert, inspect the seal between the insert and the visor

• Look for Gaps: Check along the edges of the insert to ensure the silicone gasket is in full contact with the visor. There should be no visible gaps, as this could allow moisture or air to get inside.

• Adjust the Pins if Needed: If the insert doesn’t sit perfectly, you can rotate the pins slightly to tighten or loosen the fit and achieve a better seal.

7. Reattach the Visor to the Helmet

With the Pinlock insert installed, it’s time to reattach the visor to your helmet.

• Line Up the Visor: Align the visor with the helmet’s attachment points, making sure it clicks into place securely.
• Test the Mechanism: Open and close the visor a few times to ensure it moves smoothly and that the Pinlock insert stays in position without any issues.

Once everything is in place, test the Pinlock insert for effectiveness.

• Ride in Different Conditions: Take a short ride in cold or humid weather to see how the Pinlock performs. The insert should prevent fogging on the inside of the visor, ensuring clear vision.
  
  If you notice any fogging or if the insert shifts, recheck the fit to ensure the seal is intact.

8. How to clean a Pinlock lens

• Remove the Pinlock® lens from your visor.
• Rinse the lens and the helmet visor with only mineral water, this should remove all the dirt. Then carefully use a clean, wet microfiber cloth to erase any remaining stains.
• Allow the Pinlock® lens and the helmet visor to dry naturally in an upright position before reassembling them.
• Flex the helmet visor and place the lens between the two pins.
• Check with natural light if the silicon seal on the lens makes full contact with the helmet visor.
• Fit the helmet visor back on the helmet.

• Cleaning: Avoid removing the Pinlock insert frequently, as this can damage the silicone seal. To clean, use a soft cloth or rinse it gently with water. Avoid harsh chemicals.
• Drying: Allow the Pinlock® lens to dry naturally
• Storage: When not in use, store your helmet in a cool, dry place to protect the Pinlock and visor.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure a secure fit for your Pinlock insert, helping to maintain clear vision in challenging weather conditions.