Table of contents

• Product test on / off-road helmets 13 models in comparison
• Some models can do more than just show
• Candidates for the first time below the MOTORRAD-HIC target value of 1000
• Decent range of helmets available
• AGV AX-8 Dual Evo
• Airoh S5
• Arai Tour-X4
• BMW Enduro
• Caberg Tourmax
• Givi X.01 Tourer
• Hero Alcatar
• Icon variant
• IXS HX 207
• Nishua Enduro Carbon
• Rocc 770/771
• Shark Explore-R
• X-Lite X-551GT
• The helmets on the TuV test bench
• “HIC 1000 should be feasible in the MOTORRAD test!”
• This is how MOTORRAD tests
• Final evaluation and conclusion

Herder

48 pictures

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1/48
… all the rest too.

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2/48
Nice idea, implemented unsatisfactorily – the modular helmet is a tragedy …

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3/48
… in terms of fit, aerodynamics and acoustics.

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4/48
Hero Alcatar; MOTORRAD verdict: satisfactory.

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5/48
The “sausage” lower edge of the visor is a major annoyance when it is in the field of vision; …

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6/48
… the price-performance ratio is right.

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7/48
Icon Variant; MOTORRAD verdict: satisfactory.

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8/48
A bit fiddly to use, but extremely effective, the ventilation works perfectly …

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9/48
… the color of the lining polarizes.

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10/48
IXS HX 207; MOTORRAD judgment: sufficient.

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11/48
Distorting visor edge and a visor tab that is barely graspable – that works much better …

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12/48
… Fit? It works better too.

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13/48
Nishua Enduro Carbon; MOTORRAD verdict: very good (MOTORRAD test winner).

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14/48
Looks old-fashioned, but works quickly and without tools, the visor change is convincing …

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15/48
Givi X.01 Tourer; MOTORRAD judgment: sufficient.

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16/48
… With a chunky, moderately balanced helmet.

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17/48
The P / J approval officially allows full face and open face helmet use …

Herder

18/48
Klaus Herder (52): 1st Nishua Enduro Carbon, 2nd Arai Tour-X4, 3rd BMW Enduro.

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19/48
AGV AX-8 Dual Evo; MOTORRAD verdict: good.

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20/48
You can’t go any further – the lower edge of the visor is always in the field of vision; …

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21/48
… but the whole thing is pleasantly easy.

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22/48
Airoh S5; MOTORRAD verdict: good.

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23/48
Foldable umbrella – only intended for transport purposes, not as a fighter conversion …

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24/48
… Chin part nice and far forward.

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25/48
Arai Tour-X4; MOTORRAD verdict: good.

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26/48
Caberg Tourmax; MOTORRAD verdict: satisfactory.

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27/48
… Just fits and is as practical and straightforward as the whole helmet.

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28/48
Stable wind deflector on the chin …

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29/48
BMW Enduro; MOTORRAD verdict: good.

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30/48
… like almost everything.

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31/48
Small but effective: the visor locking tab is an Arai specialty that works perfectly …

Herder

32/48
Man and machine: TuV helmet expert Peter Schaudt setting up.

Herder

33/48
Full post: real guardrail holder (“Sigma post”) as a helmet opponent.

Herder

34/48
Everyone has to go down: shock absorption test on the test bench in Cologne.

Herder

35/48
Edge anvil victim: chin parts in a slightly chipped condition.

Herder

36/48
KTM 1190 Adventure …

Herder

37/48
… and conference room as crime scenes for the practical test.

Herder

38/48
Markus Biebricher (51): 1st Nishua Enduro Carbon, 2nd BMW Enduro, 3rd Arai Tour-X4.

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39/48
… very comfortable lining, snug fit.

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40/48
Easy to use and effective ventilation flaps on the top of the head; …

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41/48
X-Lite X-551GT; MOTORRAD verdict: good.

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42/48
… Street poser may bother you.

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43/48
Visor or umbrella, both do not work together – which is consistent, …

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44/48
Shark Explore-R; MOTORRAD verdict: good.

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45/48
… a lot of helmet (mass) for the money.

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46/48
Ventilation slider on the inside of the chin part hidden and practically without function …

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47/48
Rocc 770/771; MOTORRAD verdict: satisfactory.

Herder

48/48
Thorsten Dentges (43): 1st Nishua Enduro Carbon, 2nd Shark Explore-R, 3rd Arai Tour-X4.

clothing

Helmets

Product test on / off-road helmets

Product test on / off-road helmets
13 models in comparison

Many enduro riders love to perk themselves up and their motorcycle in a martial way. And of course this also includes a helmet that looks like space and adventure. 13 on- / off-road helmets in comparison.

Klaus Herder

09/25/2014

The GS series from BMW showed it, and almost all other motorcycle manufacturers followed suit. And so there has been a motorcycle category of its own in the form of travel enduros for many years, the representatives of which are selling so well that desires have also been aroused on the clothing and accessories market. There is often a wide gap between desire and reality. Because while motorcycle technology is increasingly emphasizing the subject of travel and only rudimentarily mentioning the enduro aspect, the riders from GS are getting ready & Co often in such a way that inexperienced observers assume that the next thing on the program is at least one crossing of the Sahara and not just a foothills of the Alps.

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13 models in comparison

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A genuine cross helmet would be a nice thing if only it wasn’t so drafty, so loud and so uncomfortable over the long term. It is just in the nature of real athletes headgear that it should first and foremost be light and airy and that long-distance comfort does not play a role. For the tough male image, an umbrella and a concise chin section are fundamentally important. In combination with a visor and other comfort features such as an integrated sun visor, it becomes an on / off-road helmet for travel enduro riders.

Helmets

12 flip-up helmets tested

Models between 139 and 649 euros

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Some models can do more than just show

And there are a surprising number of these helmets. Without much effort, MOTORRAD was able to put together a test field with 13 models. And a large number of the providers not represented this time already have corresponding models in the pipeline – the coming spring should bring many new products.

For the 13 current test candidates, the two-part test program was carried out in the tried-and-tested MOTORRAD helmet test manner, in which the aim was to convince in the laboratory and practical test. In the laboratory test on the drop test stand of TuV Rheinland, all test candidates remained in the green range for shock absorption, i.e. the range specified by the currently valid ECE standard. However, with a much wider spread than MOTORRAD was used to from the last helmet tests.

workshop

Product test: helmet and visor cleaner / upholstery cleaner

Full on it! Twelve cleaning agents in the product test

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Buy helmets at markt.motorradonline.de

Candidates for the first time below the MOTORRAD-HIC target value of 1000

Because while in the last test (MOTORRAD 6/2014) in the 7.5 m / s test on the right side of the helmet, practically all candidates stayed at an acceleration of less than 200 g (the ECE limit is 275 g), managed to do so current test not even half of the participants. On the other hand, candidates remained below the MOTORRAD-HIC target value of 1000 for the first time: with Arai, Caberg and Nishua even three of them. The clear spread in the test field was also noticeable in the practical test.

While you can clearly see with some models that the manufacturers have seriously thought about using them on different surfaces and with different demands on, for example, fresh air supply and field of vision, with other models you have to get the impression that it was all about a full-face helmet somehow to trim for enduro look.

Decent range of helmets available

Some manufacturers do not leave it at that, just to spruce up a normal full-face helmet. During the renovation, you are overshooting the target and trying to build a jack of all trades that should be able to do a lot, but in practice cannot do anything really well. The Givi kit and the Caberg, which is intended as an enduro flip-up helmet (!), Are examples of this. Arai, BMW and especially the surprise test winner Nishua show how things can be done differently: no frills, a solid performance on the road and a helmet that convinces without a visor even when digging in the dirt – it’s actually quite simple. If you want to take it easy on loose surfaces, but don’t want to do without equipment, the Shark and X-lite, for example, are the best choice.

A few words about the test winner: Nishua is an exclusive Louis brand, and you might wonder why the clothing and accessories chain with a no-name product is showing the well-known helmet brands how a really good on / Off-road helmet has to look like. Just this much: The name may actually be (still) unknown, but the know-how behind it and the specific helmet model are not among industry experts. Which should give the interested customer the certainty that they are not just dealing with a one-hit wonder. The bottom line is that the GS rider and his brothers in the travel spirit will find a decent range of helmets that match the wanderlust image of their mounts – after all, the eye goes with them. And this test shows that some models can do more than just show. You shouldn’t expect miracles from most both-and-hats, which the representatives of the I-keep-wearing flip-up helmet faction should confirm – country or western? I do not care!

AGV AX-8 Dual Evo

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AGV AX-8 Dual Evo.

Providers: AGV, Tel. 00 39/1 31/85 30 11, www.agv.com; price: 369.00 euros (decor 399.00 euros); Sizes: XXS to XXXL;
Weight: 1500 ± 50 g / 1340 g (manufacturer information M / XL weighed); To dye: White, black, matt black, gray, three decors; Helmet shell: GRP mix; Closure: Double-D; Country of Manufacture: China; ECE test mark E 11 (Great Britain); Replacement visors: clear / tinted, each 57.00 euros; Furnishing: Wind deflector on the chin, air deflector, helmet bag (high quality).

Plus: Sufficiently easy putting on and taking off; very easy; very good suitability for glasses; satisfactory fit, satisfactory aerodynamics (from 120 km / h very slight restlessness over the glider); relatively low noise level; very good ventilation on the top of the head, sufficient on the chin, practical ventilation slides; clear visor locking, neat workmanship.

Minus: Chinstrap padding a little too short, chinstrap sits too far back and can press on the larynx; Lining looks very synthetic; Visor ventilation position somewhat wide; The lower edge of the visor protrudes into the field of vision, a bit fiddly
Visor change; Umbrella not adjustable.

Conclusion: Apart from its weight, the AGV AX-8 Dual Evo still has room for improvement in all areas, but it already delivers such a solid performance. For the same money or even less, however, there is better.

MOTORRAD verdict: good

MOTORCYCLE HIC 1443

Airoh S5

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Airoh S5.

providers: Jopa Racing, Tel. 0 31/5 47/38 27 17,www.jopa.nl; price: 249.95 euros (graphite / decor 299.95 euros); Sizes: XS to XL; Weight: 1420 ± 50 g / 1440 g (manufacturer information / XL weighed); To dye: White, matt black, graphite, two decors; Helmet shell: Thermoplastic; Closure: Ratchet; Country of Manufacture: Italy; ECE test mark E 11 (Great Britain); Replacement visor: of course, 49.95 euros; Furnishing: Pinlock preparation, sun visor, helmet bag (simple).

Plus: Relatively easy; very good chin strap padding; satisfactory to good fit, comfortable lining; good aerodynamics, remains stable even at higher speeds; still adequate ventilation; good sun visor operation; sufficiently wide chin part; good equipment; satisfactory processing; price.

Minus: Somewhat arduous putting on and taking off (very narrow entry); limited suitability for glasses, threading of the temples can be very tedious; Chin part ventilation lever too small, e.g. T. on the inside; no clear visor latching, lower edge of the visor protrudes into the field of vision; somewhat fiddly visor change; Umbrella not adjustable (but can be folded down for transport purposes); from 80 km / h strong wind noises.

Conclusion: In no area really outstanding, but the diligent collecting of points gives the relatively cheap Airoh S5 the test rating “good”. Biggest problem: The test winner only costs 30 euros more.

MOTORRAD verdict: good

MOTORCYCLE HIC 1324

Arai Tour-X4

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Arai Tour-X4.

Providers: Arai Helmet Germany, Tel. 0 21 33/9 76 77 14, www.arai.de; Price: 599.00 euros (matt black / decor 619.00 / 719.00 euros); Sizes: XS to XXL; Weight: 1740 ± 50 g / 1730 g (manufacturer information / XL weighed); To dye: White, black, matt black, four decors; Helmet shell: Fiberglass; Closure: double D; Country of Manufacture: Japan; ECE test mark E 4 (Netherlands); Replacement visors: clear / tinted, each 69.95 euros; Furnishing: Pinlock visor (included),
Wind deflector on the chin, helmet bag (normal).

Plus: Sufficiently easy putting on and taking off; very good suitability for glasses; excellent fit, crisp, yet comfortable fit, very comfortable lining; very good aerodynamics, is absolutely stable even at higher speeds; low noise level; good ventilation; clear visor lock, relatively large field of view, perfect visor lock; adjustable umbrella; sufficiently wide chin part; proper processing; excellent shock absorption values.

Minus: Chin strap padding too short; Ventilation lever too small; relatively difficult; Lower edge of the visor protrudes slightly into the field of vision; somewhat fiddly visor change; very ambitious price.

Conclusion: This slip-in-and-never-want-to-get-out feeling is unique – and it can be done Arai pay hard. Top processing and top shock absorption values ​​are also included with the Arai Tour-X4.

MOTORRAD verdict: good

MOTORCYCLE HIC 986

BMW Enduro

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BMW Enduro.

providers: BMW Motorrad, Tel. 01 80/5 00 19 72, www.bmw-motorrad.de; price: 440.00 euros (decor 490.00 euros); Sizes: 53/54 to 63/64; Weight: 1480 ± 50 g / 1470 g (manufacturer information / 61/62 weighed); To dye: Magnesium matt, dark gray matt, two decors; Helmet shell: GRP mix; Closure: Double-D; Country of manufacture: Italy; ECE test mark E 3 (Italy); Replacement visors: clear / tinted, 65.00 / 75.00 euros; Furnishing: Wind deflector on the chin, helmet bag (high quality).

Plus: Very easy to put on and take off; relatively light, well balanced; very good suitability for glasses; good to very good fit, crisp, yet comfortable fit, very pleasant lining; very good aerodynamics, is absolutely stable even at higher speeds; good ventilation; clear visor locking, large field of view, relatively easy visor change; adjustable umbrella; sufficiently wide chin part; proper processing.

Minus: Chinstrap padding too short, chinstrap too long; Ventilation slider on top of head a little too small; from 70 km / h stronger wind noise (but then only marginally louder).

Conclusion: As a trailblazer in the GS class, BMW has done a lot and has a good all-rounder in its range with the BMW Enduro, which however misses the mark “very good”. Because there’s even more to it than that when it comes to acoustics and shock absorption.

MOTORRAD verdict: good

MOTORCYCLE HIC 1361

Caberg Tourmax

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Caberg Tourmax.

providers: Germot, Tel. 0 6103/459100, www.germot.de; price: 249.90 euros (decor 279.90 euros); Sizes: XS to XL;
Weight: 1730 ± 50 g / 1748 g (manufacturer information / XL weighed); To dye: White metallic, matt black, matt gray metallic, two decors; Helmet shell: Thermoplastic; Closure: Ratchet; Country of Manufacture: Italy; ECE test mark E 3 (Italy); Replacement visor: of course, 29.95 euros; Furnishing: Pinlock visor (enclosed), sun visor, Bluetooth preparation, flip-up helmet (P / J approval), helmet bag (normal).

Plus: Very easy to put on and take off (flip-up helmet!); very good suitability for glasses; sufficiently padded chin strap; still satisfactory fit, satisfactory visor locking; relatively easy visor change; satisfactory processing; also approved as a jet helmet; excellent shock absorption values.

Minus: Chin strap too far back, possibly pressing on the larynx; Chin part too short; Ventilation slide practically without function; Operation of the sun visor a bit awkward (on the top of the head), the visor can hit the nose if necessary; Umbrella not adjustable; from 80 km / h strong wind noises; strong lift from 110 km / h, restlessness when looking over the shoulder; looks very voluminous and bulky.

Conclusion: The Caberg Tourmax should not only be suitable for on- and off-road use, it should also be an integral and jet helmet. With sun visor and flip-up helmet function. Does this work? Well, at least he can do anything.

MOTORRAD verdict: satisfactory

MOTORCYCLE HIC 858

Givi X.01 Tourer

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Givi X.01 Tourer.

providers: Givi Germany, Tel. 09 11/95 51 00, www.givi.de; price: 199.00 euros; Sizes: XS to XL; Weight: 1600 ± 50 g / 1636 g (manufacturer information / XL weighed); To dye: White, matte black, neon yellow, black / neon yellow; Helmet shell: Thermoplastic; Closure: Ratchet; Country of manufacture: “Far East” (probably Malaysia); ECE test mark E 3 (Italy); substitute–
visor: clear, 27.00 euros; Furnishing: Pinlock preparation, sun visor, modular helmet (detachable chin part, P / J approval), helmet bag (normal).

Plus: Very easy to put on and take off; satisfactory suitability for glasses; Pinlock preparation; relatively easy visor change; good sun visor operation; satisfactory processing; also approved as a jet helmet.

Minus: Chin strap padding much too short, strap is too far back; very unsatisfactory fit, strong pressure on forehead and back of the head, side but undefined fit, chin part much too short; sweaty lining; Ventilation slide without function, permanent strong drafts at eye level; Umbrella not adjustable; strong wind noise from 60 km / h, from 120 km / h practically impossible to drive without hearing protection; strong lift from 110 km / h.

Conclusion: Givi manufactures excellent luggage systems, great motorcycle attachments and also has decent helmets in its range. Unfortunately, the Givi X.01 Tourer’s all-rounder claim is its undoing.

MOTORRAD judgment: sufficient

MOTORCYCLE HIC 1357

Hero Alcatar

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Hero Alcatar.

providers: Held, Tel. 0 83 21/6 64 60, www.held.de; price: 139.95 euros (decor 149.95 euros); Sizes: XS to XL; Weight:
1600 ± 50 g / 1690 g (manufacturer information / XL weighed); To dye: Black, two decors; Helmet shell: SECTION; Closure: Ratchet; Country of Manufacture: China; ECE test mark E 9 (Spain); Replacement visors: clear / tinted, 14.95 / 17.95 euros; Furnishing: Pinlock preparation, sun visor, helmet bag (normal).

Plus: Relatively easy to put on; satisfactory fit; good aerodynamics up to 120 km / h, above that still sufficiently stable; Satisfactory (permanent) ventilation despite largely inoperative ventilation slides, relatively easy change of visor; Sun visor operation okay with a bit of getting used to; satisfactory processing; Pinlock preparation; attractive price.

Minus: Somewhat difficult weaning; Threading of the temples may be a bit tedious; Chin strap padding a bit too short; missing visor locking, not very practical operation, visor twists easily; The lower edge of the visor is strongly distorted when it is in the field of view; Umbrella not adjustable; From 90 km / h stronger wind noise, from 110 km / h relatively loud, a little heavy.

Conclusion: Is it unfair to compare a 140 euro helmet with one that costs twice or three times as much? It is not, because it is for beginners or infrequent drivers hero Alcatar a decent offer.

MOTORRAD verdict: satisfactory

MOTORCYCLE HIC 1207

Icon variant

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Icon variant.

providers: Parts Europe, Tel. 0 65 01/9 69 50, www.partseurope.eu; price: 358.20 euros (decor 377.60 to 387.20 euros, carbon 503.40 euros); Sizes: XS to XXXL; Weight: 1690 ± 50 g / 1846 g (manufacturer information / XL weighed); To dye: Black, five decors, carbon; Helmet shell: GRP mix; Closure: Double-D; Country of Manufacture: South Korea; ECE test mark E 1 (Germany); Replacement visors: clear / tinted / mirrored, 38.80 / 38.80 / 43.70 euros; Furnishing:
tinted replacement visor (included), visor cleaning set, wind deflector on the chin, helmet bag (high quality).

Plus: Relatively easy to put on; satisfactory to good fit, comfortable lining; good aerodynamics, remains stable even at higher speeds; relatively low noise level; excellent ventilation; relatively clear visor notch; proper processing.

Minus: Weaning somewhat difficult; Chin strap padding too short; very heavy weight; Suitability for glasses restricted by high cheek pads; Ventilation slider a bit fiddly to use; no visor locking when completely closed; Visor change a bit cumbersome; Umbrella not adjustable.

Conclusion: There would have been a lot more in there. But the high weight and the mixed shock absorption values ​​of the Icon Variant hail a better result. The fit and ventilation are definitely convincing.

MOTORRAD verdict: satisfactory

MOTORCYCLE HIC 1556

IXS HX 207

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IXS HX 207.

providers: Hostettler, Tel. 0 76 31/1 80 40, www.ixs.com; price: 119.90 euros; Sizes: XS to XL; Weight: 1600 ± 50 g / 1584 g (manufacturer information / XL weighed); To dye: White, matte black; Helmet shell: Polycarbonate; Closure: Ratchet; Country of Manufacture: China; ECE test mark E 9 (Spain); Replacement visors: clear / tinted / mirrored, 29.90 / 29.90 / 36.90 euros; Furnishing: Sun visor, helmet bag (normal).

Plus: Relatively easy to put on and take off; satisfactory sun visor operation; satisfactory processing; attractive price.

Minus: Greatly limited suitability for glasses, threading of temples can be very tedious; Chin strap padding too short, strap sits a little too far back; unsatisfactory fit, head not properly integrated, chin part too close to chin, helmet is too high, pads may press on forehead and temples; sweaty lining; missing visor locking, not very practical and difficult to operate; The lower edge of the visor is distorted when it is in the field of view; Ventilation slide without function, permanent draft at eye level; Umbrella not adjustable; from 90 km / h stronger wind noise; from 110 km / h strong lift.

Conclusion: The price is really attractive, but at the IXS HX 207 is a lot of things simply made a little too cheap. If you only spend 20 euros more, the Held or Rocc is a helmet that is hardly more expensive, but a much better one.

MOTORAD judgment: sufficient

MOTORCYCLE HIC 1482

Nishua Enduro Carbon

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Nishua Enduro Carbon.

providers: Louis, Tel. 0 40/73 41 93 60, www.louis.de; price: 279.95 euros; Sizes: XS to XL; Weight: 1270 ± 50 g / 1334 g (manufacturer information / XL weighed); colour: Black; HELMET SHELL: carbon; Closure: Double-D; Country of Manufacture: China; ECE test mark E 1 (Germany); Replacement visors: clear / tinted, 34.95 euros each; Furnishing: Pinlock visor (mounted), wind deflector on the chin, helmet bag (normal).

Plus: Very easy to put on and take off; very easy; very good suitability for glasses; excellent fit, very comfortable lining; very good aerodynamics, is absolutely stable even at higher speeds; relatively low noise level; good ventilation, practical upper head ventilation slider; clear visor lock, very large field of vision, easy visor change, pinlock as standard; adjustable umbrella; proper processing; excellent shock absorption values; price.

Minus: Chin strap padding too short; no visor locking when completely closed; extremely limited choice of colors.

Conclusion: Stable and relatively quiet on the road, light and airy on loose surfaces – the Nishua Enduro Carbon consistently implements the mix theme. Top shock absorption values ​​make the test victory finally clear.

MOTORRAD verdict: very good (MOTORRAD test winner)

MOTORCYCLE HIC 999

Rocc 770/771

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Rocc 770/771.

providers: Buse, Tel. 0 24 71/1 26 90, www.buese.com; price: 139.95 euros (decor 149.95 euros); Sizes: XS to XL (matt black and a decor up to XXL); Weight: 1600 ± 50 g / 1664 g (manufacturer information / XL weighed); Colors: White, matt black, six decors; Helmet shell: SECTION; Closure: Ratchet; Country of Manufacture: China; ECE test mark E 9 (Spain); Replacement visors: clear / tinted, 19.95 / 29.95 euros; Furnishing: Sun visor, helmet bag (normal).

Plus: Relatively easy to put on; satisfactory fit, comfortable lining; good aerodynamics up to 120 km / h, above that still sufficiently stable; Satisfactory (permanent) ventilation despite largely inoperative ventilation slides, relatively easy change of visor; Sun visor operation okay with a bit of getting used to; satisfactory processing; attractive price.

Minus: Somewhat difficult weaning; Threading of the temples may be a bit tedious; Chin strap padding a bit too short; missing visor locking, not very practical operation, visor twists easily; The lower edge of the visor is strongly distorted when it is in the field of view; no Pinlock preparation; Umbrella not adjustable; from 90 km / h stronger wind noise, from 110 km / h relatively loud; a bit difficult.

Conclusion: Don’t we know him from somewhere? Right that one Rocc 770/771 is practically identical to the Held Alcatar, but has the much more comfortable lining. And in contrast to the hero, no Pinlock preparation.

MOTORRAD verdict: satisfactory

MOTORCYCLE HIC 1290

Shark Explore-R

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Shark Explore-R.

providers: Shark, Tel. 0 41 08/45 80 00,www.shark-helmets.com; price: 369.95 euros (Carbon Skin 399.95 euros); Sizes: XS to XL; Weight: 1590 g / 1770 g (manufacturer information / XL weighed); To dye: Black, Matte Black, Carbon Skin; Helmet shell: GRP mix; Closure: Ratchet; Country of Manufacture: Thailand; ECE test mark E 11 (Great Britain); Replacement visors: clear / tinted / mirrored, each 73.50 euros; Furnishing: Sun visor, protective goggles with cleaning cloth, wind deflector on the chin, integrated neck protection, air deflector, helmet bag (high quality).

Plus: Relatively easy to put on and take off; excellent fit, very comfortable lining; very good aerodynamics, is absolutely stable even at higher speeds; low noise level; good ventilation, practical ventilation slides / flaps; clear visor locking, extremely easy visor change; very good sun visor operation; adjustable umbrella; very good equipment; proper processing.

Minus: With (standard) protective goggles only conditionally suitable for use with glasses; Chin part too close to the chin for somewhat tougher off-road use (ventilation!); a little heavy (but well balanced); Combination of visor / screen not possible.

Conclusion: Only three measly (weight) points are missing for “very good”. The tight-fitting and excellently equipped Shark Explore-R would definitely have deserved it. But real off-road excursions are not his thing.

MOTORRAD verdict: good

MOTORCYCLE HIC 1247

X-Lite X-551GT

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X-Lite X-551GT.

providers: Nolangroup Germany, Tel. 0 71 59/9 31 60, www.nolangroup.de; price: 449.99 euros (decor 539.99 euros); Sizes: XS to XXL; Weight: 1670 g / 1678 g (manufacturer information / XL weighed); To dye: Metallic white, matt black, seven decors; Helmet shell: GRP mix; Closure: Double-D; Country of Manufacture: Italy; ECE test mark E 3 (Italy); Replacement visors: clear / tinted / mirrored, 46.95 / 46.95 / 62.95–73.95 euros; Furnishing: Pinlock visor (enclosed), seal care set, sun visor, wind deflector on the chin, helmet bag (high quality).

Plus: Easy to put on and take off; good to very good fit, very comfortable lining; very good aerodynamics, is absolutely stable even at higher speeds; relatively low noise level; good to very good ventilation, practical ventilation slides / flaps; clear visor lock, large field of view, easy visor change; good sun visor operation; adjustable umbrella; very good equipment; proper processing.

Minus: Threading of the temples may be a bit tedious; Chin strap padding too short; Chin part too close to the chin for somewhat tougher off-road use (ventilation!); a bit heavy (but well balanced).

Conclusion: the X-Lite X-551GT is an all-round comfortable helmet with plenty of equipment and practical controls. The weight and the tight chin section thwart more serious off-road ambitions.

MOTORRAD verdict: good

MOTORCYCLE HIC 1368

The helmets on the TuV test bench

Herder

Edge anvil victim: chin parts in a slightly chipped condition.

The hard way

The successfully completed examination according to the helmet test standard ECE R 22.05 is a basic requirement for making it into the selection for the MOTORCYCLE helmet test. However, the editors consider the mundane re-measurement of the ECE shock absorption values ​​to be superfluous. On the one hand, this is due to the fact that the helmet manufacturers observe themselves closely. Peter Schaudt, helmet expert at TuV Rheinland: “As soon as a provider with new models appears on the market, we receive them from competitors to check the ECE values.” On the other hand, in the opinion of MOTORRAD, the ECE only sets a minimum requirement for motorcycle helmets Are defined. On the one hand, this is due to the sometimes absurd test specifications, in which the drop tests are carried out with helmets frozen to minus 20 degrees. In addition, the points of impact are precisely defined in the European standard. Which in turn encourages some helmet providers to reinforce the test points accordingly. A procedure that is within the legal framework, but which makes critics scoff that this method can even be used to knit a bobble hat to make it ECE-compatible.

In 2009, MOTORRAD therefore sat down at the table with TuV expert Schaudt and accident researcher and biomechanic Florian Schueler to develop a practical test procedure for helmets. For five years now, the “MOTORCYCLE helmet standard” has proven itself in numerous comparative tests. Central point: the helmet continues to fall from a height of around three meters on the test stand of TuV Rheinland, but not on the ECE edge anvil, but on a real guardrail support (“Sigma post”), which, according to Florian Schueler, is often tragic in accidents Role. The helmets are also tested at room temperature; the impact on the left and right side occurs at both low and high speed.   

Helmets

8 full-face helmets with sun visors in the test

Motorcycle helmets from 150 to over 600 euros

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Helmets

7 multi helmets tested

Freedom of choice via jet or integral

read more

“HIC 1000 should be feasible in the MOTORRAD test!”

According to ECE, an acceleration value of 275 g is permissible in the event of an impact on the test anvil. The probe equipped with sensors forwards the g-value to a computer, which calculates the HIC-value with the help of other parameters (duration of force application). The “Head Injury Criterion” is considered by doctors and biomechanics as an informative value for making statements about possible brain / skull injuries. The ECE allows a maximum HIC value of 2400. An abstract number, but above all far beyond good and bad. The MOTORRAD expert crew agrees: “In the MOTORRAD test, HIC 1000 should be feasible!” The top values ​​in the 2014 MOTORRAD helmet test prove that some helmet manufacturers are getting closer and closer to this target value (and are already below that on average).

Shock absorption

	7.5 m / s, right side *, Acceleration in g	HIC value	5.5 m / s, left side *, Acceleration in g	HIC value	MOTORCYCLE HIC 1000 *	7.5 m / s, chin section **, Acceleration in g
AGV AX-8 Dual Evo	204	1808	180	1078	1443	692
Airoh S5	254	1843	151	805	1324	323
Arai Tour-X4	173	1304	135	668	986	396
BMW Enduro	210	1936	148	785	1361	565
Caberg Tourmax	171	1183	114	532	858	171
Givi X.01 Tourer	215	1933	149	781	1357	371
Hero Alcatar	195	1598	147	815	1207	192
Icon variant	239	2229	162	882	1556	113
Ixs HX 207	191	1540	190	1424	1482	376
Nishua Enduro Carbon	164	1385	128	612	999	469
Rocc 770/771	191	1678	153	901	1290	374
Shark Explore-R	225	1836	131	657	1247	361
X-lite X-551GT	225	1797	162	939	1368	339

* Surcharge on Sigma posts, the MOTORRAD-HIC-1000 value is calculated from the mean of both surcharges;
** Surcharge on edge anvil. Does not count as part of the force is passed on to the chinstrap

This is how MOTORRAD tests

Herder

Markus Biebricher (51).

Broken and totally wet

Five of each helmet model were tested: two in size M were broken at TuV Rheinland in Cologne (see page 61); three each (M, L and XL) had to prove in and around Stuttgart what they can do in practice. The extensive driving tests were carried out by MOTORRAD with the long-term test KTM 1190 Adventure. The late summer of 2014, at least in the southwest, which was not that friendly, meant that half of the test program was run in continuous rain and every helmet was able to enjoy a powerful shower at least once – not a bad prerequisite for being able to make more precise statements on the subject of ventilation.

In order to be able to classify the driving impressions a little better, all test participants finally went to the legendary “conference room dry test”, in which handling, fit and workmanship were assessed again at their own pace. It is a good tradition that the test editors choose their own personal favorites in a totally subjective way (see below). At least with the test winner (and also the loser) this time there were no two opinions and even congruence with the official final rating.

The editors’ hit lists

Markus Biebricher (51)

1. Nishua Enduro Carbon
2. BMW Enduro
3. Arai Tour-X4

12. Airoh S5
13. Givi X.01 Tourer

Thorsten Dentges (43)

1. Nishua Enduro Carbon
2. Shark Explore-R
3. Arai Tour-X4

12. Icon variant
13. Givi X.01 Tourer

Klaus Herder (52)

1. Nishua Enduro Carbon
2. Arai Tour-X4
3. BMW Enduro

12. ixs HX 207
13. Givi X.01 Tourer

Final evaluation and conclusion

MOTORCYCLE

The Nishua Enduro Carbon has secured the test victory in the product test on / off-road helmets.

Placements

1. Nishua Enduro Carbon: 88 out of 100 points
2. Shark Explore-R: 82 out of 100 points
3. Arai Tour-X4: 79 out of 100 points
4. BMW Enduro: 79 out of 100 points
5. X-lite X-551GT: 79 out of 100 points
6. AGV AX-8 Dual Evo: 73 out of 100 points
7. Airoh S5: 70 out of 100 points
8. Icon Variant: 66 out of 100 points
9. Rocc 770/771: 63 out of 100 points
10. Caberg Tourmax: 62 out of 100 points
11. Hero Alcatar: 61 out of 100 points
12. ixs HX 207: 50 out of 100 points
13. Givi X.01 Tourer: 49 out of 100 points

Conclusion: Clear test victory for a newcomer. With top values ​​in terms of shock absorption, weight, fit and aerodynamics, the Nishua Enduro Carbon is a tailor-made debut. Behind it it becomes clear how brutally tough point tables can be. Because up to and including the X-lite X-551GT, five models receive a “good” rating which, if it had only been based on practical experience, would have deserved a “very good” rating. But as the test life goes, a few points left behind in the laboratory categories, for example, take revenge. However, these models are definitely worth considering. Those who have to or want to save a lot will only find what they are looking for with the models rated “satisfactory” or “sufficient”. Some of them deliver good to very good laboratory values, but weaknesses strongly in practice.

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