I think that noise is a complex combination of bike, windshield, head size/shape, clothing, bike options that channel wind, earplugs and (for me) level of hearing loss. .. that it is almost impossible to do an apples to apples comparison on any one factor. I only know that I find the C3 comfortable and very quiet and that I often don't even wear my earplugs unless I'm planning to listen to music or TED talks while on my 2 hour airport slab commute.

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Roborider
Rob Osborne
Vail (Tucson), Arizona USA

Studies show most hearing loss while riding is caused by low frequencies from wind noise. The low freq's shake the tiny and delicate scilia fibers surrounding the ear drum.

Listening to music loudly will damage your hearing MORE than wind if loud and long enough exposure. Use Caution. If the drivers are right next to your ear drum ... you'll be deaf in no time. (trust me on this one ... I wear headphones for a living)

Studies also show riders are calmer and more focused when riding with ear plugs. Also, at days end, you will be less fatigued if wearing hearing protection. Quiet and calm is good ... less stress, less fatigue, better riding.

A UK study done on road racers showed with ear plugs, riders heart rate was down significantly. A good thing.

As a sound pro, (movie sound guy) I've dealt with all kinds of hearing protection for the last 25 years ... including "custom" fit ones. I've never liked custom ones, they get gunked up with ear wax and when you lose them ... you've got to pay again. $$$ But as always ... IMHO and YMMV.

For the last 7/8 years I've gone with the Howard Leight Laser Lite plugs.
Like Ted, I carry about 10 pairs with me ... and usually replace a set after
four or five days of use. If you can keep them clean ... and dry, (and not lose them) they last longer. Never wash them. Won't work.

The Laser Lite's have 32db attenuation. Better than most custom plugs.
Now up to about $28 per box of 200 pair. (In USA) CHEAP!!

They are soft and comfortable, easy to insert ... but I see MOST riders don't put them in far enough. They must be rolled SMALL, licked, then inserted as far as possible, held in place while they fully expand. DONE! If wet, they can't be rolled up. Toss 'em.

I would disagree with Ted about windshields. A shield is no guarantee of quiet air flow, in fact many shields produce MORE noise (by far) than no shield at all. Getting a shield tuned for quiet is a bit of a black art. I've chased this phantom for years on certain bikes. My DR650 uses no shield and is quieter than most bikes I've owned that have a shield. YMMV.

An under-chin noise dam under your helmet can help reduce low frequency damage, but ear plugs are the best way. The Laser's for me are ALL DAY comfortable ... and a must if sleeping in strange, noisy places.

Howard Leight | Laser Lite Earplugs

http://www.northernsafety.com/Produc...r-Plugs-NRR-32