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How to install a Pinlock insert

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Short answer

Clean the visor, then hold the Pinlock insert by its edges, bow it slightly and slot each end under the two pins on the inside of the visor. Let it flatten so the silicone seal touches the visor all the way around. If you see a gap or fog creeps in at the edge, turn the eccentric pins a small step at a time to increase tension until the seal sits evenly. Do not touch the insert's inner face.

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A Pinlock insert is one of the best fixes for a fogging visor. It creates a sealed double layer, like a double-glazed window, that keeps warm breath from condensing on the cold visor. It only works if it is fitted correctly with a full seal. This page explains how a Pinlock works, how to fit it step by step, how to adjust the pins, and how to fix the common problems riders run into.

How a Pinlock works

A Pinlock is a thin clear or tinted lens with a soft silicone bead around its edge. It mounts inside the visor between two pins. When fitted, the bead presses against the visor and seals a thin air pocket between the two lenses. That pocket insulates the inner lens, so it stays warm enough that your breath does not condense on it, and the lens itself absorbs a little moisture.

The visor must be Pinlock ready, meaning it has the two pins molded or fitted on the inside. The insert must also match the visor model, since sizes and shapes differ. Many premium helmets come with an insert in the box. If not, buy the one listed for your exact visor.

Before you start

Work on a clean, soft surface. Remove the visor from the helmet if it has a tool-free release, since it is much easier to fit the insert on a table. Clean the inside of the visor with water and a microfiber cloth and let it dry. Any dust or fingerprints trapped inside the seal will be there until you remove the insert again.

Peel any protective film off the Pinlock, and handle it by the edges only. The inner face has a moisture-absorbing layer that is easily marked. If you need to clean it, use only water and dab gently with a soft cloth. See how to clean a motorcycle helmet for safe products.

Note.Do not use solvents, glass cleaners or alcohol on a Pinlock insert. They can ruin the anti-fog layer.

Fit the insert step by step

Most visors have a pin at each side of the eye port. On many helmets these pins are eccentric, meaning they are off-center and can be turned to move the insert's contact point slightly. Start with the pins in their default position, which is often marked.

  1. 1

    Remove and clean the visor, then let it dry.

  2. 2

    Hold the Pinlock by its edges with the silicone bead facing the visor.

  3. 3

    Bow the insert gently by pressing the ends toward each other.

  4. 4

    Slot one end under one pin, then the other end under the other pin.

  5. 5

    Release slowly so the insert flattens against the visor.

  6. 6

    Check the silicone bead touches the visor all the way around.

  7. 7

    Refit the visor to the helmet and check it opens and closes smoothly.

Adjust the pins for a good seal

Look at the visor against a light. A good seal shows an even line where the bead touches the visor, with no gaps. A gap, often near the top or bottom center, means the insert is not tight enough. Fog that forms in a band around the edge points to the same problem.

To tighten, remove the insert and turn the eccentric pins a small step so they push the insert ends further apart, then refit and check again. Adjust both pins evenly. If the seal is too tight, you may see distortion or rainbow patterns, and the insert can be hard to fit. Turn the pins back a step. Some brands mark pin positions or have notches. Others, such as Shoei pins on many visors, turn with a coin or by hand. Check your helmet manual for its method.

  • Fog around the edge

    Likely cause
    Loose seal
    Fix
    Turn pins to add tension

  • Gap at top or bottom

    Likely cause
    Insert too loose or visor flexed
    Fix
    Add tension, check insert size

  • Distortion or rainbow effect

    Likely cause
    Too much tension
    Fix
    Turn pins back a step

  • Moisture trapped between lenses

    Likely cause
    Seal broken or insert fitted damp
    Fix
    Remove, dry both, refit

  • Insert will not fit

    Likely cause
    Wrong size for visor
    Fix
    Buy the insert for your visor model
Common Pinlock problems

Living with a Pinlock

Remove the insert occasionally to dry and clean between the lenses, especially after riding in rain. Check the seal again after each refit. Inserts wear over time, and the silicone bead can harden, so replace the insert if the seal stays poor after adjustment.

A tinted Pinlock can work as sun protection on a clear visor, but it is not a substitute for a clear lens at night. If fog is still an issue, read our guide to motorcycle helmet visor fogging. If you want a helmet that ships with an insert, many models in our best full face helmets and best Shoei helmets guides include one.

See Shoei helmets →

Frequently asked questions

Can any visor take a Pinlock? No. The visor needs Pinlock pins, and the insert must match the visor shape. Check the visor model before buying an insert.

Why is my Pinlock still fogging? Usually the seal is not tight. Look for gaps against a light and turn the eccentric pins to add tension.

How do I adjust Shoei Pinlock pins? On many Shoei visors the pins are eccentric and turn to change the tension. Turn both evenly in small steps and check the seal after each change.

Can I clean the inside of a Pinlock insert? Only with water and gentle dabbing using a soft cloth. Avoid rubbing and any chemicals.

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