Above all, a motorcycle helmet should provide protection, not only against a potential crash but also from wind, rain and flying objects (bugs and rocks, not UFOs). But a helmet also needs to be comfortable so that it doesn’t become a distraction or cause fatigue. Fly Racing’s Formula Carbon helmet gets high marks on both counts.
Inside the helmet’s ultra-lightweight 12K carbon fiber shell is the Adaptive Impact System (AIS), which Fly Racing describes as a “high-performance ecosystem of structural designs and energy mitigating materials.” AIS includes the Conehead dual-density EPS (expanded polystyrene) liner, which uses an array of inverted cones to manage or absorb impact force more efficiently, with six critical zones designed to deliver a progressive response to low-speed and high-speed impacts. Strategic areas have additional EPS to provide more protection. Between the Conehead liner and the rider’s head are Impact Energy Cells made of RHEON, a cutting-edge viscoelastic material, that maximize absorption of low-speed linear and rotational impacts, reducing forces transmitted to the brain. A chin bar filled with EPP (expanded polypropylene) and a clavicle shell relief zone filled with EPS and EPP help reduce injuries to the face and collarbone.
My size-medium Formula Carbon helmet weighs 47.4 ounces, which is just under three pounds — one of the lightest helmets I’ve worn. Its moisture-wicking, antimicrobial padded liner and cheek pads are all-day comfortable, and easily removable for cleaning. The helmet fit snug enough to keep it from moving around during lots of up, down and all-around gyrations, and I felt no hot spots. There is no face shield or drop-down sun visor, so you’ll need goggles. Off-road riding is a helluva workout, which made me appreciate the True Functional Ventilation (TFV) system, which moves air through multiple intake vents and a series of vent channels in the EPS liner before exiting multiple rear exhaust vents. The helmet has custom molded rubber trim with an integrated nose guard, lightweight visor screws and titanium alloy D-rings. An extra visor and a premium helmet bag are included. Available in various colors/graphics in sizes XS-2XL for $649.95.
For more information, visit Fly Racing.
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