Akuma Helmets
Who are you and what do you do?
I am head of R&D for IHT Technology, with Akuma helmets as our primary subsidiary.
How long have you worked at Akuma and what is it?
It's been four years. Akuma designs, manufactures and sells motorcycle helmets and accessories. We have positioned ourselves as the most high-tech helmet and accessory supplier in the industry, utilizing our patented Integrated Power System (IPS) in all of our products.
What was your former job?
I was a Navy pilot and flew P-3 Orions.
How did that experience influence your current job?
The Navy requires all pilots to have an in-depth understanding of the aircraft they are trained to fly. This knowledge includes the electrical system of the aircraft, and I became very intrigued with the electrical components and systems. The science of electronics soon became a hobby.
What made you want to start a helmet company?
I soon realized that as technology progressed and bikes became more sophisticated, the same electronic sophistication did not carry over to the gear. It made sense to me to apply that sophistication to the gear-specifically the helmet. I figured I'd start my own helmet company using my patented technology.
What do you think the next trend in sportbikes is going to be?
I think the next trend will be upgraded electronics, rearview cameras, GPS systems and a total integration of the bike with the gear and rider. I also think the trend will be geared toward making bikes faster and lighter via more carbon-fiber components and lighter, more powerful engines.
Stock/240/300/360; what's your favorite size and why?
I personally prefer the 240 because it still gives you that aggressive rear profile but doesn't interfere too much with the bike's performance.
Run us through your typical day.
Wake up at 5:30 a.m. to help get my kids ready for school. Answer e-mails from overseas suppliers, check our Web site hits and check our Myspace account. I get to the office by 9, where I solve any problems our retailers may have, visit our local retailers, check on our warehouse and get home around 7 p.m. Then I begin contacting and conversing with our overseas suppliers and factories depending on that day's major issues. I get to bed around 11...maybe.
What is the best trick you ever performed in a rental car?
Doing a double 360 on I-95 going 70 mph. I really didn't mean to but it looked good.
What is the best $40 you ever spent?
Flowers for my wife.
What's the fastest you've been on two wheels, and what bike was it on?
185 on my tricked-out R1 in Japan.
What are you riding presently?
My 2007 R1.
Person you most admire?
My mother. She makes Superman look soft.
What would have been your alternate career?
Scientist.
What's in the CD player at the moment?
A burned compilation of old R&B.
If you could have only one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Steak.
What's your favorite bike of all time?
Yamaha R1.
What type of cars do you like best; old school, import, sports or DUB?
I'm more of a muscle-car kinda guy. I really dig 1969 Firebirds.
What is the worst pickup line you have ever used?
Hey girl, what's your name and purpose in life?
Did it work?
Absolutely.
What is the cheesiest song you know all the words to?
"My Baby Daddy" by B Rock and the Bizz.
If you could be a superhero, what would you want your superpowers to be?
The ability to fly, read minds and teleport. That bulletproof thing wouldn't be too bad either.