Product test: cheap full-face helmets

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Product test: cheap full-face helmets
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Product test: cheap full-face helmets

Product test: Inexpensive full-face helmets
What good are helmets under 100 euros?

Is a maximum of 100 euros enough to get a well-protective helmet? The range in the lower price range is large. MOTORRAD has tested 15 integral models in the laboratory and in practice.

Holger Hertneck

December 3, 2008

There is no question that the main task of motorcycle helmets is their protective function. And full-face helmets with a fixed chin section offer the most comprehensive protection. The prices for such models start at less than 100 euros and go well over 1000 euros. While the segment of exclusive high-tech helmets is only shared by a handful of brands, there are numerous providers in the lower price range. This circumstance and the question of whether the safety of the helmets might suffer as a result of the savings measures in the 100 euro class has prompted MOTORRAD to sell 15 models from the brands Akira, Bayard, FM, Germot, Gmac, Held, HJC, Ixs, Lazer, LS2, Nexo, Probiker, Streetfighter, Takachi and Uvex. According to the following test criteria that have been tried and tested in previous helmet tests.

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Shock absorption (20 points): One of the most important tasks of a helmet, passive safety, was assessed by MOTORRAD in cooperation with TuV Rheinland in Cologne.

Fit / wearing behavior (20 points): Motorcycle helmets should be as free from pressure marks as possible and still sit firmly and stably on the head. In addition, the sub-items field of vision (is the side view restricted by raised cheek areas?) And suitability for glasses belong to this criterion. There are a maximum of two bonus points for a particularly comfortable, cozy lining. Overall, the FF350 from LS2 is ahead in this chapter ?? not least because of its soft lining and its great fit. the Lazer Vertigo is best for those who wear glasses, and Germot’s helmets, hero and Ixs offer the largest field of vision.

Aerodynamics (10 points): How high are the drag forces when driving? At the test speeds of 150 and 180 km / h selected by MOTORRAD, it quickly becomes clear whether helmets tend to be annoying? at the latest when turning your head, i.e. looking over your shoulder.

Acoustics (10 points): Recessed visors, flat ventilation buttons, wind deflectors on the chin and a narrow neckline ensure a low level of noise when driving. In this regard, there is a lack of practically all candidates. Only with the Akira Nara is the noise level bearable.

Ventilation (10 points): Camouflage and deceiving seems to be the motto of the 15 models presented. What use are some easy-to-use ventilation buttons if the air cannot get to the head at all because it is blocked by a windproof lining or the styrofoam shells do not have the necessary holes? The CS-12N from HJC for a little cooling.

Handling (10 points): How comfortable are the helmets on and off? How functional is the chinstrap fastener? In addition, visor operation, visor locking and visor change are part of the handling criterion, in which the FF350 from LS2 is the only candidate to achieve the full number of points.

Equipment / processing (10 points): From the outside, all test participants are processed quite neatly. Almost without exception, the lining and cheek pads can also be removed. Clearly visible reflective material is only found in three models (in two cases as a supplied accessory sticker), and only the Uvex model has a fog-free visor? the austerity measures in the 100 euro class send their regards.

Weight (10 points): Light helmets protect the neck and throat muscles and receive more points accordingly.

Conclusion: Anyone who looks at and tried on helmets in the 100 euro class in specialist shops will be surprised at how well these models are made and what a good fit they are. Apart from fogging visors, the differences to expensive helmets only become apparent when driving. Bad ventilation and a high level of noise are almost standard. Often only small design changes would be necessary to remedy these deficiencies. But development work costs money that is not intended for the lowest price range. Fortunately, they shine “Cheap hats” with partially excellent shock absorption values ​​?? At least accident protection does not suffer from the austerity measures.

Helmet offers in the MOTORRADonline market

On the drop test stand of TuV Rheinland


Product test: cheap full-face helmets


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TuV Rheinland man Sven Schneider aligning a test helmet.

According to the currently valid European standard for motorcycle helmets, ECE-R 22.05, all tested and approved helmets ?? of course completely regardless of their price? Adhere to the specified limit values. For the acceleration it is 275 g, the HIC value (Head Injury Criterion – a measure for the expected traumatic brain injuries) may not exceed 2400. In the presence of MOTORRAD, the experts from TuV Rheinland tested all candidates in the particularly critical temperature range of minus 20 degrees Celsius and the required flat anvil.

Each helmet was tested at the six points specified by the standard (forehead, right and left side of the helmet, crown, back of the head and chin) and the associated data was recorded. All drop tests were carried out with size M (57/58) helmets and the corresponding test head, inside which sensors record the accelerations that occur and forward them to the computer, which uses this to calculate the HIC value.

Overall, the results are very positive, even if a handful of candidates exceed one or the other limit. Most of the test helmets are in some cases well below the permitted maximum values ​​and deservedly collect points. Good to know that cost-cutting measures in helmet production do not necessarily come at the expense of safety.

Akira Nara


Product test: cheap full-face helmets


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Provider: Roleff Motorrad-Mode, phone 02761/929307,
www.roleff.de

Price: from 79 euros
Sizes: XS to XXL
Colors: black, black-matt; Decor in three color variants (99 euros)

plus
Excellent shock absorption values; very good fit; stable seat with firm cheek guidance; very good aerodynamics; comparatively quiet; very easy to put on and take off; Visor easy to use; tool-free visor change; well processed; Removable interior

minus
Slightly restricted field of vision; not very suitable for people who wear glasses; Drafts when turning the head; Ventilation very poor, keys can only be used moderately with gloves; Visor fogged up; very difficult

Conclusion
Despite its heavy weight, a helmet that is very comfortable to wear and, thanks to its tight fit and distinctive spoiler, is particularly suitable for sporty beginners.

Verdict: satisfying

Bayard SP-60


Product test: cheap full-face helmets


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Provider: Motoport,
Telephone 04451/915200, www.motoport.de
Price: from 99 euros
Sizes: XS to XXL
Colors: black; Decor in three color variants (119 euros)

plus
Good fit; stable seat; very good aerodynamics; Ventilation buttons easy to use even when wearing gloves; easy to put on and take off; Visor easy to use; tool-free visor change; well processed; Removable interior

minus
Weakness in shock absorption; slightly restricted field of vision; only conditionally suitable for people who wear glasses; noisy; Ventilation very poor; Visor fogged up; heavy

Conclusion
Neatly processed full-face helmet with good driving characteristics, but with weakness in the shock absorption test and further detail defects.

Verdict: sufficient

FM F48


Product test: cheap full-face helmets


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Provider: Niemann & Frey,
Telephone 02151/55540, www.niemann-frey.de

Price: from 99 euros
Sizes: XS to XXL
Colors: black, silver; Decor in three color variants (109 euros)

plus
Excellent shock absorption values; still good fit; stable seat; large field of view; very good suitability for glasses; good aerodynamics; very easy to put on and take off; Visor easy to use; tool-free visor change; well processed; Removable interior; reflective stickers included; easy

minus
Loud, also whistling noises; Ventilation not noticeable, keys can only be used moderately with gloves; Visor fogged up;

Conclusion
The F48 stands out from the rest of the field primarily because of its massive chin section. Many small defects stand in the way of very good shock absorption values.

Verdict: satisfying

Germot GM 700


Product test: cheap full-face helmets


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Provider: Germot,
Telephone 06103/459100, www.germot.de

Price: 84.90 euros
Sizes: XS to XXL
Colors: two decors in a total of four color variants

plus
Very good shock absorption values ​​and fit; stable seat with firm cheek guidance; very large field of view; very good aerodynamics; Ventilation buttons easy to use even when wearing gloves; easy to put on and take off; very functional ratchet fastener; well processed; Removable interior; easy

minus
Not very suitable for people who wear glasses; noisy; Hardly noticeable ventilation; too few visor stops; tool-free visor change very uncomfortable; Visor fogged up;

Conclusion
The GM 700 is almost identical to the Shadow from Held and, thanks to its very good aerodynamics, is particularly suitable for sporty drivers who like the outer shell with spoilers and edges.

Verdict: satisfying

GMAC Maxx


Product test: cheap full-face helmets


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Provider: BF Hardwear,
Telephone 04421/500166, www.bf-hardwear.de

Price: from 59.90 euros
Sizes: XS to XXL
Colors: black; Black-matte (64.50 euros); Decor in three color variants (79.90 euros)

plus
Acceptable shock absorption values; still good fit; very good aerodynamics; Ventilation buttons are very easy to use, even when wearing gloves; very easy to put on and take off; Visor easy to use; very simple, tool-free visor change; well processed; Removable interior

minus
Slightly restricted field of vision to the side; not very suitable for people who wear glasses; noisy; Ventilation very poor; Visor fogged up; heavy;

Conclusion
One of the cheapest models in the test field has a classic outer shell without spoilers, scoops or other bells and whistles. The many lack of detail prevent a better overall impression.

Verdict: sufficient

Hero shadow


Product test: cheap full-face helmets


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Provider: Hero,
Telephone 08321/66460, www.held.de
Price: from 89.95 euros
Sizes: XS to XXL
Colors: black-matt, silver-matt; White-yellow, white-red (99.95 euros); Decor in three color variants (99.95 euros)

plus
Excellent shock absorption values; very good fit; stable seat with firm cheek guidance; very large field of view; very good aerodynamics; Ventilation buttons easy to use even when wearing gloves; easy to put on and take off; very functional ratchet fastener; well processed; Removable interior; easy

minus
Not very suitable for people who wear glasses; very loud; Hardly noticeable ventilation; too few visor stops; tool-free visor change very uncomfortable; Visor fogged up;

Conclusion
Sporty riders appreciate the great fit of the Shadow
and the tight fit. He collects minus points like that
almost identical model of Germot in the visor and ventilation criteria.

Verdict: satisfying

HJC CS-12N


Product test: cheap full-face helmets


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Provider: HJC Germany,
Telephone 02131/523560, www.hjc-germany.de
Price: from 69.99 euros
Sizes: XS to XXL
Colors: black; Black matt, silver metallic (79.99 euros);
three decors in a total of eleven color variants (89.99 euros)

plus
Very good shock absorption values; good fit; stable seat; large field of view; very good suitability for glasses; good aerodynamics; Noticeable ventilation, buttons still easy to use even with gloves; easy to put on and take off; very simple, tool-free visor change; well processed; Removable interior

minus
Chinstrap lock presses on the neck; noisy; Visor fogged up; heavy

Conclusion
The CS-12N from the world’s largest helmet manufacturer is a classic touring helmet with a number of small weaknesses, but one
fair price-performance ratio. He just missed one
“satisfying”.

Verdict: sufficient

IXS HX 240


Product test: cheap full-face helmets


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Provider: Hostettler,
Telephone 07631/18040, www.ixs.com
Price: from 89.95 euros
Sizes: XXS to XXL
Colors: black, black-matt, silver; five decors in a total of 22 color variants (99.95 euros)

plus
Good fit; stable seat with firm cheek guidance; very large field of view; very good aerodynamics; easy to put on and take off; Visor easy to use; tool-free visor change; well processed; Removable interior

minus
Slight weakness in shock absorption; not very suitable for people who wear glasses; noisy; Ventilation barely noticeable, keys can only be used moderately with gloves; Visor fogged up; heavy

Conclusion
A huge selection of different decors is available for the models of the 240 series, which are particularly suitable for sport touring riders, but which were noticeable in the test with a weakness in shock absorption.

Verdict: sufficient

Lazer Vertigo


Product test: cheap full-face helmets


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Provider: Buse, phone 02471/12690, www.buese.com
Price: from 99.95 euros
Sizes: XS to XL
Colors: black, silver; four decors in a total of five color variants (139.95 euros)

plus
Excellent shock absorption values ​​and suitability for glasses; very large field of view; Ventilation buttons are very easy to use; very easy to put on and take off; Visor very easy to use; very well processed;
Removable interior; Reflective material on the back of the head; easy

minus
Moderate fit only; moderate aerodynamics, buoyancy noticeable from 150 km / h; draughty interior; very loud; Ventilation very poor; coin required for visor change; Visor steams up

Conclusion
Excellent shock absorption values, but due to its loose fit and mediocre aerodynamics, the Vertigo is best suited for slow motorcycles or scooter riders.

Verdict: sufficient

LS2 FF 350


Product test: cheap full-face helmets


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Provider: GMS Motorsport, phone 0221/2829457, www.ls2helmets.de
Price: from 75 euros
Sizes: XS to XXL
Colors: black, black-matt,
Silver, silver matt; five decors in a total of 16 color variants (89 to 99 euros)

plus
Excellent shock absorption values, very good fit; stable seat; very cozy lining; still good aerodynamics; Ventilation buttons easy to use; very easy to put on and take off; very functional ratchet fastener; tool-free visor change; well processed; Removable interior; Reflective sticker

minus
Slightly restricted field of vision; not very suitable for people who wear glasses; noisy; Ventilation very poor; Visor fogged up; heavy

Conclusion
The FF350 marks the limit of the 100 euro class ?? more
is currently not available for this money. The main criticisms of ventilation and visor stand against excellent shock absorption values ​​and a great fit.

Verdict: satisfying

Nexo Suka II


Product test: cheap full-face helmets


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Provider: Polo express delivery,
Telephone 0211/979696, www.polo-motorrad.de
Price: from 99.95 euros
Sizes: XS to XL
Colors: black; Decor in two color variants (119.95 euros)

plus
Good fit; stable seat; very good aerodynamics; Ventilation buttons easy to use even when wearing gloves; easy to put on and take off; very functional ratchet fastener; tool less
Visor change; well processed; Removable interior; easy

minus
Slight weakness in shock absorption; slightly restricted field of vision; only conditionally suitable for people who wear glasses; noisy; Ventilation not noticeable; Visor steams up

Conclusion
The only candidate with a fiberglass outer shell in comparison weakens when it comes to shock absorption. It is also of little use that he is the lightest participant in the test.

Verdict: sufficient

Probiker X4


Product test: cheap full-face helmets


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Provider: Louis, Telephone 040/73419360, www.louis.de
Price: 49.95 euros
Sizes: XS to XL
Colors: anthracite metallic, black matt, black metallic, decor in three color variants

plus
Still good fit; very large field of view; very good suitability for glasses; very good aerodynamics, only low forces when turning the head; Ventilation buttons easy to use even when wearing gloves; easy to put on and take off; Visor easy to use; well processed; Removable interior

minus
Great weakness in shock absorption; somewhat tight chin part; noisy; Hardly noticeable ventilation; Change of sight with coin; Visor fogged up; heavy

Conclusion
The cheapest participant lands in last place. Despite some positive properties such as aerodynamics and suitability for glasses, the negative ones predominate, especially the blatant weakness in shock absorption.

Verdict: inadequate

Streetfighter Transformer


Product test: cheap full-face helmets


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Provider: Louis, Telephone 040/73419360, www.louis.de
Price: from 89.95 euros
Sizes: XS to XL
Colors: black-matt; Black-silver-matt (99.95 euros)

plus
Good shock absorption values; good fit; stable seat; cozy
Lining; very good aerodynamics; easy to put on and take off; Visor very easy to use; tool-free visor change; well processed;
Removable interior

minus
Slightly restricted field of vision due to the voluminous chin part; only conditionally suitable for people who wear glasses; noisy; Ventilation very poor, keys can only be used moderately with gloves; Visor distorted and fogged up; heavy

Conclusion
Streetfighter look on the outside with a distinctive chin section, cozy and soft on the inside with a good fit. Despite good shock absorption values, it is not enough to achieve a better result due to numerous deficiencies in detail.

Verdict: sufficient

Takachi TK-135X


Product test: cheap full-face helmets


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Provider: Cypacc,
Telephone 02327/96090, www.takachi.de

Price: from 99.95 euros
Sizes: XXS to XXL
Colors: black-matt, white; Decor in four color variants (119.95 euros)

plus
Very good shock absorption values; good fit; large field of view; good aerodynamics; easy to put on and take off; Visor easy to use; very simple, tool-free visor change; well processed; Removable interior; easy

minus
Chinstrap lock presses on the neck; only conditionally suitable for people who wear glasses; Drafts on the back of the head; very loud; Ventilation very poor, keys can only be used moderately with gloves; Visor fogged up

Conclusion
The basis is right: shock absorption values, fit and aerodynamics are convincing. When driving, however, a lot of minor and major defects bothers, which is why there is only one in total “sufficient” enough.

Verdict: sufficient

Uvex Flash


Product test: cheap full-face helmets


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Providers: Uvex Sports, phone 0911/97740, www.uvex-sports.de
Price: from 89.95 euros
Sizes: XS to XXL
Colors: black metallic; Decor in four color variants (99.95 euros)

plus
Very good fit; stable seat with firm cheek guidance; cozy lining; still good aerodynamics; Ventilation buttons and visor very easy to use; very easy to put on and take off; very easy visor change; very well processed; Removable interior; virtually fog-free visor

minus
Great weakness in shock absorption; slightly restricted field of vision; only conditionally suitable for people who wear glasses; noisy; Drafts when turning the head; Hardly noticeable ventilation; heavy

Conclusion
The Flash is the only one in this price range to have an anti-fog visor. Due to the weaknesses in the shock absorption test and other, albeit widespread, lack of detail, the Uvex cannot exploit this advantage.

Verdict: sufficient

Conclusion

The tough MOTORCYCLE points evaluation, which makes no distinction between expensive and cheap helmets, relentlessly reveals the weaknesses of the 100 euro class. Only five candidates achieve the verdict satisfactorily. Nevertheless, the test shows that buyers only have to worry about safety with very few models. The results for shock absorption are mostly good to very good. In terms of fit, handling and aerodynamics, the entry-level class has clearly improved in quality in recent years. The best full-face helmet in the test is the LS2 FF350, which is also one of the cheapest offers with prices starting at 75 euros. The models from Akira, FM, Germot and Held, rated as satisfactory, are also worth considering.

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