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Product test sporty full-face helmets Helmets for the racetrack
Arai RX-7 GP
Blue Force One
BMW Sport
Schuberth S2
Scorpion Exo-1000 Air
Shoei XR-1100
Vemar Eclipse
X-Lite X-802 R
The final score

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Product test sporty full-face helmets

Product test sporty full-face helmets
Helmets for the racetrack

How do the motorcycle helmets of professional drivers fare in the tough everyday business on country roads and highways, what do they perform on the test bench? The MOTORCYCLE helmet test uncovered a lot more surprises.

Jorg Lohse

09/27/2012

It could have been so nice: “Let’s do a sports helmet test. Naturally high-end, only the first-class goods from the pit lane! ”The MOTORRAD service crew is optimistic about the research and has put together a large and illustrious test field from the field of drivers from the top motorcycle racing classes. But already with the first test request, disillusionment sets in: “You don’t seriously believe that the boys actually wear the helmet whose brand is also stuck on it!” At least, we object, they look pretty similar to the models in the store. The second call should prove otherwise: Casey Stoner, as the responsible Nolan importer says, bears the logo of the traditional brand from an old bond, the helmet itself comes from the in-house premium brand X-Lite. Exactly the model that competitor Jorge Lorenzo also wears – the Mallorcan, however, correctly labeled. Nolan isn’t the only brand that needs to be deleted. Others justify their test cancellation with a model-related change, do not even react to inquiries or brusquely block them (e.g. -Airoh, Suomy). However, there are also manufacturers who build sporty helmets without prominent figureheads. Which is why an illustrious group comes together at the end. As the top dogs – of course the two rivals from Japan (Arai, Shoei) – have been firmly established in motorcycle racing for years and are accordingly blessed with experience. But there are also newcomers like the Italo brand Blauer, which is pushing for greater awareness through Moto GP riders like Michele Pirro. The test field includes entry-level models (these, however, not as a replica version, but in plain plain colors) for just under 300 euros, the most expensive providers are at an incredible 1500 euros (Blauer’s Limited Edition series). What is offered for the money?

Let’s look at the helmets in detail. For example in locking technology. Of course, most sports helmet manufacturers rely on the simple double-D lock, which is prescribed for racing. Of course, the ratchet lock is on the BMW or Schuberth locked faster. As long as the belt length is correct. But if it has to be readjusted, fiddling is the order of the day. A problem that doesn’t even arise with the double-D, even if you are out and about with a bare neck one day and a thick buff the next.

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We come to the visor lock. Present the best solution Arai and Schuberth: When you close the visors firmly, you automatically press a small pin into the retaining lug and both front windows are secured against unintentional opening (in the event of an accident!). With other manufacturers, however, the locking must be carried out using an extra handle. That succeeds with Shoei still quite easy with an easily accessible lever, with others you almost break your finger off whether the stiff mechanics (X-Lite) or desperately at fiddly buttons (Scorpion, Vemar). However, you shouldn’t do it like Blauer, who forego a visor lock entirely.

In the meantime, word seems to have got around in the sports business that the heating faction can quickly find its way into bad weather areas – which is why a fog-free inner visor (e.g. Pinlock) should already be available in series. Almost all test participants offer this feature, but show differences in the structural design. With most helmets, the silicone joint of the inner visor is directly in the field of vision when you are stooped in a sporty position – an unbearable condition in the long run. The better solution: a Pinlock lens that covers almost the entire visor cutout (with Scorpion standard, with Arai with the Max Vision visor for almost 100 euros extra), or the anti-fog coating, as found on the helmets from Blauer and Vemar is available.

All manufacturers agree that sports pilots should keep a cool head under all circumstances. Which is why an extensive ventilation program is offered for every helmet in the test. Most of the test subjects have no doubts when it comes to effectiveness; the air throughput remains poor with Blauer and Vemar. However, there is a huge problem with the operation of the air conditioning: With Arai, tiny toggle switches distributed over the helmet have to be operated, and the vent on the back of the head is almost inaccessible. It is similarly acrobatic with Shoei, and the levers at Blauer already seem worn out when new. Exemplary, however: the centrally placed slide on Schuberth’s S2.

Even if these points do not impair the basic function of the helmets (full seat, solid accident protection): In the sports shop, the bottom line is that every tenth counts.

Arai RX-7 GP

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Arai RX-7 GP.

Provider: Arai Helmet (Germany), Telephone 0 28 02/94 84 80, www.araideutschland.de; Prices: plain colors 849 euros, decor versions 999 euros; Sizes: XS to XXL; Weight (size L): 1560 ± 50/1592 grams (manufacturer information / weighed); Colors: black, white, gray plus eleven decor / replica versions; Helmet shell: GRP mix; Closure: double D; country of manufacture: Japan; ECE approval mark: E 4 (Netherlands); Replacement visors: clear / tinted 69.95 euros, mirrored 119.95 euros, Max-Vision with integrated Pinlock visor 99.95 euros, racing visor / set of five tear-off foils 74.95 / 14.95 euros; Features: pull-out wind deflector on the chin, removable cushion, cheek pads with emergency release, pinlock visor (included), helmet bag, maintenance oil, visor adjustment tool

plus
Very good, tight fit with full, firm padding (keyword: sneakers!), Encloses the head very well; Chin strap to close perfectly; very good aerodynamics with a stable seat; highly effective ventilation function; very large field of vision, is not restricted when exercising; very good suitability for glasses

minus
When looking over the shoulder, helmet receives noticeable wind impulses from a speed of 160; overall very
loud, wind noises already very present from a speed of 80 km / h; extremely fiddly

Conclusion
Slip in and feel good. The sporty top model from Arai also pampers you with a sensational fit and great wearing comfort. However, weight, volume and high HIC values are bothersome.

MOTORRAD verdict: good

Blue Force One

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Blue Force One.

Provider: FC Moto, Telephone 0 24 05/4 95 00 50, www.fc-moto.de; Prices: decor versions 409/429 euros, limited edition 1500 euros; Sizes: XS to XL; Weight (size L): 1290 ± 50/1344 grams (manufacturer information / weighed); Colors: black, white, red, green, blue plus 19 limited edition versions; Helmet shell: GRP mix; Closure: double D; Country of manufacture: Italy; ECE test mark: E 3 (Italy); Replacement visors: clear / tinted / mirrored 39.90 / 49.90 / 59.90 euros; Equipment: air deflector, anti-fog visor, removable padding, helmet bag

plus
Snappy fit (but with a very tight-fitting chin part); Field of vision good even with a sporty posture; light weight; very good suitability for glasses

minus
Very thin, slightly sweaty upholstery with little comfort and many pressure points (forehead, temples, back of the head), evaporates heavily when new; thin chin strap, twists when threading, poor aerodynamics with strong buoyancy from a speed of 130; high noise level with high-frequency whistling backdrop, ventilation lever worn out when new (top of the head) or stiff (chin); Chin and upper head ventilation too weak, but strong continuous pull from below; Visor ventilation position too far; no visor lock

Conclusion
The Blauer scores with a crisp seat, good visibility and great HIC values, but annoying in everyday life with many shortcomings such as its loud background noise, susceptibility to wind and the drafty interior.

MOTORRAD verdict: satisfactory

BMW Sport

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BMW Sport.

Provider: BMW Motorrad, phone 01 80/5 00 19 72, www.bmw-motorrad.de; Prices: plain colors 425/445 euros, decor versions 490 euros; Sizes: 52/53 to 62/63; Weight (size 60/61): 1450 ± 50/1464 grams (manufacturer information / weighed); Colors: black, white, gray plus three decor versions; Helmet shell: GRP; Closure: ratchet *; Country of manufacture: Germany; ECE approval mark: E 13 (Luxembourg); Replacement visors: clear / tinted 55/75 euros; Equipment: wind deflector on the chin, anti-fog inner visor (mounted), removable padding, helmet bag

plus
Comfortable upholstery with a high cuddle factor (a touch too soft for sports riders); encloses the head very well with the close-fitting ruff pulled down far; offers a lot of space in the chin area; very good aerodynamics with a full, stable seat in all tempo positions; very good noise insulation; highly effective ventilation; tight visor lock with practical ventilation position; very good suitability for glasses

minus
Extremely tight entry and exit can be painful; Chin ventilation button very stiff; Lateral field of vision restricted by wedge shape; Visor lock with poor feedback

Conclusion
A BMW helmet with a real S-Class feeling. Combines sport with a lot of comfort and convinces with top HIC values, a quiet interior and a comfortable seat. But sports fans will be bothered by the ratchet lock. very good

MOTORRAD verdict: very good

Schuberth S2

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Schuberth S2.

Provider: Schuberth, Telephone 03 91/8 10 60, www.schuberth.de; Prices: plain colors 499.99 euros, fluo / decor versions 569.99 / 579.99 euros; Sizes: 50/51 to 64/65; Weight (size 58/59): 1450 ± 50/1480 grams (manufacturer information / weighed); Colors: black, white, matt black, matt white, luminous yellow plus three decor versions; Helmet shell: GRP mix; Closure: ratchet *; Country of manufacture: Germany; ECE approval mark: E 13 (Luxembourg); Replacement visors: clear / tinted / mirrored 55/70/75 euros; Equipment: Wind deflector on the chin plus attachable extension, sun visor, antenna pre-installation for Bluetooth installation, pinlock visor (enclosed), removable padding, helmet bag

plus
A snug fit that encloses the head very well; gives a feeling of security thanks to the close-fitting neck finish; good aerodynamics with, however, a small impulse when looking sideways at a brisk pace (130 plus); very quiet interior; still good ventilation (possibly too weak for sports use); smooth-running ventilation slides; good suitability for glasses

minus
The ratchet lock presses heavily on the larynx due to the suspension placed far back; With a sporty posture, visibility is restricted by a pronounced edge on the upper edge

Conclusion
Do sports drivers have to suffer? No, says Schuberth and sends the S2 an absolutely comfortable sports helmet with extensive equipment (sun visor!) Out onto the track. Flaw: the chin strap

MOTORRAD verdict: good

Scorpion Exo-1000 Air

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Scorpion Exo-1000 Air.

Provider: Scorpion Sports, phone 08 00/1 83 08 99, www.scorpionsports.eu; Prices: plain colors 299.90 euros, fluo / decor versions 329.90 to 354.90 euros; Sizes: XS to XXL; Weight (size L): k. A./1606 gram (manufacturer information / weighed); Colors: black, white, silver, matt black, matt anthracite plus 23 decor versions; Helmet shell: GRP mix; Closure: double D; Country of Manufacture: China; ECE approval mark: E 9 (Spain); Replacement visors: clear / tinted / mirrored 35.90 / 35.90 / 44.90 euros; Equipment: wind deflector on the chin, air deflector, sun visor, Pinlock visor (mounted), inflatable cheek pads, removable pads, helmet pouch

plus
Easy entry; stable seat even at high speed (however, minimal disruptive impulse noticeable when looking sideways); quiet and draft-free interior; very good HIC values; easily accessible ventilation slides; Suitability for glasses is still okay

minus
Synthetic, slightly scratchy and sweaty lining with too thin padding that can cause pressure points on the forehead and temples; very little space in the chin area; Field of vision with sporty posture severely restricted by edge and sun visor in view; Chin and upper head ventilation too weak overall; wobbly lever for visor lock

Conclusion
The Scorpion draws attention to itself with its extensive equipment (sun visor, air cushioning) and good HIC values. In practice, however, it has to be more comfortable. Very difficult!

MOTORRAD verdict: good

Shoei XR-1100

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Shoei XR-1100.

Provider: Shoei, phone 02 11/1 75 43 60, www.shoei-europe.com; Prices: plain colors 419 euros, metallic / decor versions 449/519 euros, replica 549 euros; Sizes: XXS to 3XL; Weight (size L): 1465/1488 grams (manufacturer information / weighed); Colors: black, white, gray, silver, red, matt black, matt gray plus 21 decor / replica versions; Helmet shell: GRP mix; Closure: double D; Country of manufacture: Japan; ECE test mark: E 6 (Belgium); Replacement visors: clear / tinted 69 euros, tinted gradient 69 euros, mirrored 99 euros, racing visors 119 euros; Equipment: Wind deflector on the chin, Pinlock visor (enclosed), removable padding, helmet bag

plus
Very comfortable fit with snug, firm and skin-friendly padding; encompasses the head very well without decoupling too much; lots of space for the chin; light and very well balanced wearing comfort; stable, buoyancy-free seat at all speeds; very effective ventilation (ideal for sports use); Very good field of vision even with a sporty posture, very good suitability for glasses

minus
Visor detent too soft (but closes tightly); Ventilation slider difficult to reach; slight (high-frequency) basic whistling disturbs the otherwise quiet acoustics; reacts minimally to turbulence behind small windshields

Conclusion
The sneaker for the head: Shoei pampers many heads with an excellent fit and a high feel-good climate. Despite the good grade, there are still some construction sites: better HIC values, more easily accessible sliders.

MOTORRAD verdict: good

Vemar Eclipse

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Vemar Eclipse.

Provider: FC Moto, Telephone 0 24 05/4 95 00 50, www.fc-moto.de; Prices: plain colors 369.90 euros, decor / replica versions 399.90 to 489.90 euros, currently available at reduced prices from 289.90 euros (uni); Sizes: XXS to 3XL; Weight (size M): 1390 ± 50/1432 grams (manufacturer information / weighed); Colors: black, white, silver, matt black plus 20 decor / replica versions; Helmet shell: GRP mix; Closure: double D; Country of manufacture: Italy; ECE approval mark: E 3 (Italy); Replacement visors: clear / tinted / mirrored 49/59/69 euros, antifog 59 euros; Equipment: wind deflector on the chin, anti-fog visor, removable padding, helmet pouch

plus
Stable seat at all speeds; tight visor detent; good suitability for glasses

minus
Scratchy lining with thin padding, lies slightly fissured and can partially press on the cheeks and forehead; Interior exudes heavily when new; very loud noise development with penetrating whistling and howling backdrop; Ventilation slider difficult to reach or very stiff, ventilation itself very poor, but strong, non-controllable draft from below; Visor lock difficult to operate with gloves

Conclusion
Padded poorly, loud and drafty. The Vemar looks like a relic from the early nineties and offers minimal comfort. The worst HIC value in the test joins the deficits in everyday life.

MOTORRAD judgment: sufficient

X-Lite X-802 R

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X-Lite X-802 R.

Provider: Nolangroup Germany, Telephone 0 71 59/9 31 60, www.nolangroup.de; Prices: plain colors 449.95 euros, decor versions 489.95 to 529.95 euros, replica versions 579.95; Sizes: XS to XXL; Weight (size L): 1360/1410 grams (manufacturer information / weighed); Colors: black, white, matt black plus 26 decor / replica versions; Helmet shell: GRP mix; Closure: double D; Country of manufacture: Italy; ECE approval mark: E 3 (Italy); Replacement visors: clear / tinted EUR 46.95, blue / silver mirrored EUR 62.95 / EUR 73.95, racing visors from EUR 54.95, set of three tear-off visors EUR 23.95; Equipment: Wind deflector on the chin, Pinlock visor (enclosed), removable padding, helmet bag, maintenance oil, visor cleaning cloth

plus
Very easy to put on and take off, immediately provides a snug fit with perfect wearing comfort; very skin-friendly lining with a pleasantly roughened surface; stable seat at all speeds (however – minimal impulse when looking sideways); quiet, draft-free interior; excellent balanced ventilation; very good suitability for glasses

minus
Visor with an impractical opening tab, because it is centrally placed, opens too far in the ventilation position; fiddly, sometimes too stiff slider / button (visor lock, ventilation)

Conclusion
The helmet of the world champions: Lorenzo wears it like that, Stoner only incognito. He needs to hide X-Lite in any case not, not only scores with high wearing comfort, but also good HIC values.

MOTORRAD verdict: very good

Herder

Schuberth sun visor.

Sun visors:
are standard for flip-up helmets, and they no longer stop at sporty full-face helmets. In this test, Schuberth’s S2 and Scorpions Exo-1000 are equipped with practical folding sunglasses. But increases the helmet weight by around 200 grams.

herder

Customizable upholstery from the Scorpion.

Customizable upholstery:
can be made with most helmets using optionally available cheek pads in different thicknesses. Scorpion, on the other hand, relies on firmly integrated push-up padding that is adjusted using an air pump.

Herder

Chinstrap

Chinstrap:
The double-D closure has established itself as the standard for sporty full-face helmets. Advantages: light, compact and always tightly lashed with one hand movement. Only Schuberth and BMW rely on the supposedly more comfortable ratchet lock.

Herder

Ventilation from the bluer.

Ventilation:
the big dilemma in the test. Only a few (Schuberth, BMW) offer good solutions through central air slides with high efficiency, while others have problems with the operation (Arai, Shoei), the efficiency (Scorpion) or both (Vemar, Blauer, in the picture).

Herder

Visor lock Vemar.

Visor lock:
Shut up and good? So that the visor stays securely closed in the worst case, an extra safety device is required. Great solution with Arai and Schuberth, with others it has to be locked with fiddly slides (Vemar, in the picture) or stiff buttons (X-Lite).

Herder

(No) help for first aiders.

No help for first responders.
In the event of an accident: get your helmet off quickly. Arai wants to make it easy for first aiders and has provided the cheek pads with an emergency release. Unfortunately, the corresponding note (photo) can hardly be heard when the helmet is on.

Herder

Beware, it falls: every minute, the test helmets slam onto bare steel from a height of three meters.

Hard reality on the drop test stand of TuV Rheinland in Cologne. MOTORRAD developed the Sigma post test together with TuV helmet expert Peter Schaudt and accident researcher Florian Schueler (University of Freiburg). And: unlike in the helmet standard ECE-R 22.05, the helmets do not hit the guardrail support when they are frozen, but at room temperature. In order to test the behavior at low fall speeds, the helmets fall on the bare steel not only with the ECE standard 7.5 m / s, but also with 5.5 m / s. The ECE (which incidentally specifies six precisely defined test points that manufacturers can reinforce “in accordance with the standards”) allows a maximum permissible acceleration of 275 g. The HIC value (Head Injury Criterion) calculated from acceleration and other parameters (including duration of force action) as a measure for possible skull / brain injury may be a maximum of 2400 according to the standard.

Product test sporty full-face helmets

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Product test sporty full-face helmets