I’ll be the first to admit that I’m an HJC simp. I’ve owned several of their lids over the years, from entry-level workhorses like the CS-15 to premium RPHA helmets. And to this day, I still rock my C10 for everything from daily commutes to weekend tours. It’s reliable, comfy, and proof that HJC knows how to nail the balance between value and performance.
So when I saw on Instagram that they were dropping a limited-edition Red Bull RPHA 12 with a livery dedicated to the Austin GP? You bet I perked up.
HJC, if you didn’t already know, is the self-proclaimed number one helmet brand in the world. And honestly, that’s not just marketing fluff. From the world’s best racers to everyday food delivery riders, their helmets are quite literally everywhere. The RPHA 12 is their latest top-shelf offering, and is equipped with a lightweight PIM EVO shell, race-spec aero, Pinlock-ready shield, quick-release cheek pads. It’s a serious bit of kit, ready for the track but supposedly easy to live with on the road.
But let’s talk about the livery. Dubbed the Red Bull Austin GP II, it’s a full-send tribute to the Circuit of the Americas. Designed by Dave Designs, it’s dripping in Red Bull swagger: bold lines, a striking mix of blue, silver, yellow, and red, and “Grand Prix of the Americas” branding proudly slapped on the side.
Oh, and fun fact: Red Bull hardly ever releases branded collab helmets to the general public. Lids with the energy drink logo emblazoned on the shell are usually reserved for Red Bull-sponsored athletes and adrenaline junkies. So this sweetens the deal for us mere mortals even further.
But here’s where all this kinda sucks, especially if you’re reading this in the US: the HJC RPHA 12 Red Bull Austin GP II is available only in Europe. At least for now.
Seriously. A helmet made to commemorate the American round of the MotoGP season isn’t launching in America. No word yet on when US dealers will get their hands on it, which feels like a weird move considering, you know… the race happened in Texas. There’s probably a business-y reason buried somewhere in the supply chain, but whatever it is, it still sucks for US-based fans who want to snag one.
Until then, American enthusiasts are left waiting (or importing). Either way, if you can get your hands on one, I don't see why not. But then again, with a sticker price of 650 euros, or the equivalent of about $710 per current exchange rates, it’s by no means a budget-friendly lid. And if you’re willing to do away with the fancy Red Bull livery, you could get yourself an equally competent helmet for much less money.
But hey, that Red Bull logo will always be a massive flex, especially when you’re pulling up to a bike meet at your nearby coffee shop.
Source: HJC Helmets
