Product test: Seven enduro helmets in the test

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Product test: Seven enduro helmets in the test
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Product test: Seven enduro helmets in the test

Product test: Enduro touring helmets
Seven enduro helmets in a comparison test

Hit yourself nasty the Dotz – tested helmets should protect against that. Worrying about the right helmet for a trip every time – the seven tested enduro touring helmets should save you from that. Not an easy task, because different rules of the game apply to the terrain and the road.

Thorsten Dentges

06/24/2011

A couple of hundred kilometers of motorway on the way. Full throttle, 200 things, is possible with two or three cylinders and 100 hp. Then a perfect country road interlude, the sun is already low and shoots from the front. No problem, the sun visor and umbrella take care of it. On the gloomy pass road, it gets cool and it starts to rain, but the comfortably lockable visor holds tight. Destination reached the next day. The gravel dorado, the dune ridge, the wooded beaten path that wants to be plowed. Here our dream helmet should develop further superpowers; because there can only be one. Who wants to lug several helmets with them on the big adventure? So, someone has to do it: the perfect touring helmet for enduro riders.

So, and now rewind again: full throttle, 200 things ?? Au Cheek, have you already tried it, enthroned high on an all-terrain machine? Feels like in the heights of the Himalayas when nasty weather conditions sweep climbers tired of life into the gorge. Or as above in the rigging of a four-masted mast in the middle of the waves “Roaring Forties” and “Howling Fifties” just before Cape Horn. In short, when the wind blows really hard around your ears. Now back to our wonder helmet. And to reality. At this speed, the large umbrella typical of enduro helmets – which is intended as a glare protection and as a shield against stones and mud packs from advancing tunnel knights – pulls its head back like a seasoned judo master. After a few seconds it was over. Nine and a half out of ten drivers are now humbly turning the gas tap back. Only then does the helmet rest. In the truest sense of the word, because the design of the helmets presented here is simply not designed for high-speed use on German motorways, and the noise level above 130 km / h is enormous compared to conventional full-face helmets.

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Product test: Enduro touring helmets
Seven enduro helmets in a comparison test

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So the helmets will not achieve a top result as an all-rounder, so far, so good. Or rather bad for those who like to race with their fat enduro – they won’t be interested in this test, they should rather bother with road helmets. Everyone else is advised to read on. Because these helmets are still good, as the practical test showed. Especially if the route is to lead exclusively on country roads and sometimes a bit apart from them. In terms of price, the test candidates are far apart. the Airoh S4 and the Uvex Enduro are the only thermoplastic helmets, so they were manufactured comparatively inexpensively using the injection molding process and are therefore available for less than 200 euros. Such helmets are actually relatively heavy, but these two models are in the middle of the range in terms of weight: exemplary. And problems with a higher susceptibility to UV radiation (faster aging, shorter service life) are now a thing of the past with thermoplastic helmets due to special paints. At first glance, both the Airoh and especially the well-made Uvex hardly differ from the other test candidates, which are at least twice as expensive.

The thermoset helmets are usually better equipped, as a closer look reveals. Very durable glass fibers, Kevlar and partly carbon braids, higher quality visors, better ventilation options, also extremely pleasant lining as well as firm, but at the same time very comfortable upholstery – this is what flatters Arai, BMW, Shoei, X-Lite and Uvex with the SLT. They sit perfectly crisp, but you don’t feel cramped (except for the BMW) and you are immediately at home. And the 100 grams less that the Uvex SLT saves compared to the standard enduro through lighter material, is a noticeable bonus both off-road and at higher speeds on the motorway. The cheaper helmets are also louder and in comparison are not nearly as stable in the wind because the umbrellas made of cheaper plastics twist more. The bottom line is that it is especially worthwhile for touring riders to spend more on these upper middle class helmets; because the more expensive enduro full-face helmets prove to be more confident travel partners, especially on long journeys.

Another unfortunate note about Uvex: The traditional helmet manufacturer is pulling out of the sails in the motorcycle sector. Too unprofitable, says the management. The MOTORRAD field test, however, took place before the company went out of business, and the helmets, which deservedly well-graded, are still on sale. According to Uvex, the supply of spare parts is guaranteed for the next few years, so bargain hunters could be very interested in the sale. You don’t go wrong with any of the helmets tested, that’s the good news. But you shouldn’t be blinded by advertising claims. The on / off-road marbles are truly no all-rounders, just a compromise. For stylish travel endurists, however, it is certainly a compromise that is easy to live and drive with.

This is how MOTORRAD tests


Product test: Seven enduro helmets in the test


Dentges

Logged: On the autobahn, the helmets showed weaknesses in aerodynamics and acoustics.

The safety of a helmet is of course crucial. All helmet models in this test have already been tested for approval for the European market in accordance with the ECE-R 22.05 standard (shock absorption, stripping tests, etc.) and, after homologation, should have the so-called HIC value (Head Injury Criterion, a specified dimension for the expected skull Brain injuries) of 2400. The test sticker on the chin strap guarantees this. MOTORRAD therefore limited itself to a pure practical test, the criterion “security” is the same for all candidates and is therefore not listed any further in the final assessment. Several MOTORRAD editors gave different weightings in driving tests on country roads, autobahns and off-road as well as in “Dry samples” the seven helmets according to the following points:

Carrying comfort: the lighter, the better. However, it also matters how well balanced a helmet is. Efficient ventilation (and any setting options) play a major role in air conditioning and thus in comfort. The fit, which was perceived and rated differently depending on the shape of the head, is also very important. Also decisive for comfort: Lining and upholstery. Handling: How easy is it to get in and out of the vehicle, does it get stuck with people who wear glasses, how can the lock, air inlets, visor, upholstery etc. be operated and changed if necessary? 80 to 100 (country road) and rated at motorway speeds of up to 180 km / h. Field of vision: How good is the horizontal and vertical field of vision when driving? Equipment / processing: Material quality, manufacturing and paint quality, scope and practicality of the equipment features such as wind deflectors, Sun visor, umbrella, anti-fog visor, etc..

Special ranking offroad


Product test: Seven enduro helmets in the test


archive

In the field, good ventilation and a large field of vision count more than volume and aerodynamics.

No thoroughbred enduro rider would seriously take one of the helmets presented here to a competition. The weight alone: ​​these touring marbles are almost half the weight of current cross helmets. And with a folding visor it doesn’t work particularly well on a selective circuit, because damp, fast breath usually causes the windshield to fog up a lot. Normally, when doing sports, people ride with suitable strap-on goggles, period. Nevertheless, enduresque full-face helmets should at least also be suitable for occasional excursions in harder terrain (an argument for long-distance travel). Test drives on fairly plan gravel roads and unpaved tractor paths put the candidates to the test only a little. All seven test helmets worked on this loose ground in a similar way to the country road, so they are absolutely suitable for shallow enduro hikes. Only a hardness test separated the wheat from the chaff. MOTORCYCLE top tester Karsten Schwers, who not only likes to drive (and jumps) over hill and dale with everything that has two wheels, not only professionally but also privately, came up with the ingenious idea: BMX. While some readers may maudulently remember a childhood / youth in the 1980s, it should be explained to everyone else that BMX is a cycling sport.

“Parcour with many jumps, violent”, says Karsten, who, as a nearly 40-year-old motocrosser and enduro rider, is also still an active BMX racer today (supposedly only for the sake of his children ??). So: off on the train, yippie! With the BMW and the X-Lite, not a meter can be made. With these rather closed helmets with a chin section close to the mouth, you can almost only drive with an open visor, and overall they seal off a very active driver from the route too much. The Shoei, like BMW and X-Lite, is fully trimmed for the road, is more light-footed and scores with a good field of vision. The heavy one Arai however, it is well balanced, the protruding chin part provides good ventilation and thus brisk laps on the course. When jumping, however, the field of vision is somewhat restricted by the long, deep-seated umbrella. The two Uvex, on the other hand, have a more efficient adjustment range of the umbrella, this protects against strong light as well as against mud and stone chips. Offroad genes, unmistakable. And the Airoh? His major shortcoming on the (express) road, namely the (too) strong ventilation, turns into a huge bonus on the off-road track: test winner terrain.

Airoh S4


Product test: Seven enduro helmets in the test


MPS studio

Airoh S4.

Providers:
Buse, phone 0 24 71/12 69, www.buese.com; Price: 189.95 euros (209.95 euros with decor); Sizes:
XS to XL
plus
Above-average ventilation, comparatively low weight (less than 1500 grams), removable, washable pads, overall rather comfortable fit.
minus
Chin ventilation without the possibility of closure, therefore hardly suitable for touring below 20 degrees. Noticeably noisy even at country road speeds, very restless at higher speeds (over 130 km / h), umbrella twists significantly, creaky material, moderate equipment, changing visors comparatively cumbersome.

Conclusion
The visor is almost the only thing that indicates that this thoroughbred enduro helmet is suitable for touring. Fully okay for shorter trips, but the S4 is out of place for longer trips or frequent motorway stretches. Enduro riders are happy about the off-road capability – and probably everyone about the fair price.

MOTORRAD verdict: satisfying

Arai Tour X3


Product test: Seven enduro helmets in the test


MPS studio

Arai Tour X3.

Providers:
Arai Germany, phone 0 28 02/94 84 80, www.araideutschland.de; Price: 579 euros (679 with decor);
Sizes:
XS to XXL
plus
Good size variety thanks to exchangeable upholstery, high manufacturing quality, excellent fit, well-functioning double D-lock, good ventilation, fully suitable for glasses, anti-fog pinlock visor with lock.
minus
At over 1700 grams in size M, the heaviest helmet in the test, the comparatively large screen pulls the head uncomfortably backwards from a speed of 130 and also somewhat obstructs the horizontal field of vision.

Conclusion
Very balanced helmet. And that in the truest sense of the word, because despite its heavy weight, the helmet sits well balanced on the head and provides excellent comfort. Well balanced in a figurative sense: The Tour X3 is nowhere top (except for the price), but it is a reliable travel partner.

MOTORRAD verdict: good

BMW Enduro


Product test: Seven enduro helmets in the test


MPS studio

BMW Enduro.

Providers:
BMW Motorrad, phone 01 80/5 00 19 72, www.bmw-motorrad.de; Price: 490 euros; Sizes:
53/54 to 63/64
plus
Very easy-to-wear lining, by far the best aerodynamics in the test field, light (around 1400 grams), quiet, effective ventilation on the top of the head, high-quality plastics, removable upholstery.
minus
Fit was heavily criticized by all testers despite different head shapes, entry and exit of the helmet also very cramped, double D-lock a bit hooked, air inlets hardly effective with chin ventilation, screen adjustment range rather poor.

Conclusion
Hardly any noise, because your ears are literally in your ears “locked” become? Speculation, but the practical test showed: the helmet is surprisingly quiet, but it is nasty. In any case, the fit prevents a better result. But if everything fits fine, grab it: the best road helmet in the enduro class.

MOTORRAD verdict: good

Shoei Hornet DS


Product test: Seven enduro helmets in the test


MPS studio

Shoei Hornet DS.

Providers:
Shoei, phone 02 11/1 75 43 60, www.shoei-europe.com; Price: 459 euros (559 euros with decor);
Sizes:
XXS to XXL
plus
Decent aerodynamics (up to 150 km / h), good size range, ventilation on the chin, forehead and top of the head very effective, high wearing comfort (less than 1500 grams), removable upholstery, good workmanship, anti-fog pinlock visor.
minus
Umbrella adjustment somewhat complicated (covered by a cover) and not very variable, chin part too close to the mouth for demanding off-road use, noise insulation only average, loud from a speed of 130.

Conclusion
The longer you wear it, the more likeable the Hornet DS becomes. He doesn’t thwart any enduro adventures, can handle a tough stretch of motorway well, is a very pleasant travel companion on the country road and collects the most points. Has its price, but is also fully worth it.

MOTORRAD verdict: Good

Uvex Enduro


Product test: Seven enduro helmets in the test


MPS studio

Uvex Enduro.

Providers:
Uvex, phone 0911/97740, www.uvex -sports.de; Price: 199.95 euros (229.95 euros with decor);
Sizes:
XS to XXL
plus
Very good umbrella adjustment (triple), good fit, fits tightly overall, ratchet fastener easy to use, visor with very good view and effective anti-fogging equipment, visor and umbrella change stress-free, removable upholstery.
minus
The helmet peak twists from a speed of 130 km / h, volume and aerodynamics from a speed of 150 km / h more and more poorly and hardly permanently bearable, no visor locking, upholstery tight, entry a bit uncomfortable.

Conclusion
The standard enduro as an inexpensive thermoplastic alternative weighs only around 1450 grams, comes with a 1a visor and is one of the off-road specialists. In terms of comfort and aerodynamics, however, it loses a lot compared to the more expensive SLT, otherwise it would also be a buyer’s tip for 200 euros.

MOTORRAD verdict: Good

Uvex Enduro SLT


Product test: Seven enduro helmets in the test

Uvex Enduro SLT.

providers:
Uvex, phone 0911/97740, www.uvex -sports.de; Price: 369.95 euros (399.95 euros with decor);
Sizes:
XS to XXL
plus
Good suitability for glasses, acoustics and aerodynamics at a decent level and fully satisfactory for country roads, very pleasant upholstery and skin-friendly lining, visor and umbrella change is child’s play, ratchet lock is easy to use, crisp, but great seating and wearing comfort. First class visor, removable pad.
minus
Weakens on the highway beyond 150 km / h, fluttering and then quite high noise level, no visor lock.

Conclusion
High-quality helmet made of carbon, fiberglass and kevlar with an extremely low weight (around 1350 grams). And this package is available at an absolutely fair price. Also one of the best enduro touring helmets for rough terrain. Motorcycle off-road adventurers will love it. Buy! As long as possible.

MOTORRAD verdict: Good

X-Lite X-551


Product test: Seven enduro helmets in the test


MPS studio

X-Lite X-551.

Providers:
Nolangroup Germany, phone 07159/93160, www.nolangroup.de; Price: 429.50 euros (479.50 euros with decor);
Sizes:
XS to XXL
plus
Easy visor change and umbrella adjustment with hand screws, the only helmet in the test with an integrated sun visor, anti-fog pinlock visor, well-functioning double D-lock, suitable for glasses.
minus
Entry and exit narrow, chin part very close to the face, noticeably loud from a speed of 100 km / h, adjustment range of the umbrella (too short for off-road activities) rather low, high weight (over 1600 grams in size M).

Conclusion
If you leave the country road towards the motorway, the X-551 is not much fun because it is too loud. And this (heavy) road helmet, made up for off-road use, feels even more uncomfortable off-road. But the top equipment with the extremely practical, internal sun visor is gracious. Tourists like that.

MOTORRAD verdict: Good

MOTORRAD final evaluation / hit lists of the editors


Product test: Seven enduro helmets in the test


archive

The final score.

Conclusion:

The self-proclaimed egg-laying woolly milk sows leave feathers and hair, and some sow always has to die. Test result: No candidate is right, really good. But they are good anyway, even the Airoh who “only” Overall grade 3 gets (but trumps in the field). They are loud, heavy and fluttering – clearly a bad buy for motorway tourists. But look sharp. It is worth taking a test drive for endurance travelers.

The editors’ hit lists:

Klaus Herder (48)
1. Uvex Enduro
2. Shoei Hornet DS
3. Arai Tour X3
…
7. Airoh S4

Jorg Lohse (41)
1. Arai Tour X3
2. Shoei Hornet DS
3. X-Lite X-551
…
7. Uvex Enduro

Mike Schumann (44)
1. Shoei Hornet DS
2. BMW Enduro
3. Uvex Enduro
…
7. Arai Tour X3

Thorsten Dentges (39)
1. Uvex Enduro SLT
2. Shoei Hornet DS
3. Arai Tour X3
…
7. Airoh S4

Peter Mayer (51)
1. Shoei Hornet DS
2. Uvex Enduro SLT
3. Arai Tour X3
…
7. BMW Enduro

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