Searching for the best premium helmet

Matthes
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Matthes 1/10/2021 2:27pm
1/10/2021 2:27pm
TheVetGuy wrote:
I am buying a new helmet to replace my 6D ATR-1 which suffered a major crash. (That did not prevent from suffering a concussion) My research...
I am buying a new helmet to replace my 6D ATR-1 which suffered a major crash. (That did not prevent from suffering a concussion)

My research on the technology used to offer optimal protection brought me to the following models: Shoei VFX-EVO, Leatt 8.5, Fly Racing Formula and ... 6D ATR-2.

Given my experience with the 6D brand, I want to give my confidence to another brand.

My first choice would be : Shoei VFX-EVO.

Thanks for your opinions !!!
Couple things IMO, one is that you can get a concussion in any type of helmet so don't write that one off because of that. Two is that to me, its insane to not buy a hemet that has some sort of secondary impact system in it.

We know too much now to know that just having EPS doesn't cut it anymore.

Fly's a big sponsor of Pulpmx so I obviously know more about the Formula. Look up Rheon and what it does. The Fly Formula has multiple systems of safety in them for high & low speed crashes. It's an amazing helmet.
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Richard Tease II 1/10/2021 2:30pm
1/10/2021 2:30pm
TheVetGuy wrote:
I am buying a new helmet to replace my 6D ATR-1 which suffered a major crash. (That did not prevent from suffering a concussion) My research...
I am buying a new helmet to replace my 6D ATR-1 which suffered a major crash. (That did not prevent from suffering a concussion)

My research on the technology used to offer optimal protection brought me to the following models: Shoei VFX-EVO, Leatt 8.5, Fly Racing Formula and ... 6D ATR-2.

Given my experience with the 6D brand, I want to give my confidence to another brand.

My first choice would be : Shoei VFX-EVO.

Thanks for your opinions !!!
Matthes wrote:
Couple things IMO, one is that you can get a concussion in any type of helmet so don't write that one off because of that. Two...
Couple things IMO, one is that you can get a concussion in any type of helmet so don't write that one off because of that. Two is that to me, its insane to not buy a hemet that has some sort of secondary impact system in it.

We know too much now to know that just having EPS doesn't cut it anymore.

Fly's a big sponsor of Pulpmx so I obviously know more about the Formula. Look up Rheon and what it does. The Fly Formula has multiple systems of safety in them for high & low speed crashes. It's an amazing helmet.
Can we have that in a Belgium accent please ;-)
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davidgrip
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davidgrip 1/10/2021 4:31pm
1/10/2021 4:31pm
Concussions are like other injuries, too many variables. You, your genetics/angle/time/load/etc. Proper fit is one of the only things you can control. Safety/ Design features. Good Luck!
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Mr. Info
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Mr. Info 1/10/2021 4:43pm
1/10/2021 4:43pm
Suomy MX Speed, light weight, mips and several shell sizes. My choice last 6 years.
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aeffertz
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aeffertz 1/10/2021 5:21pm
1/10/2021 5:21pm
WhatsStoppingU wrote:
Don’t forget about Arai!
Arai's tech is far outdated considering it's price tag. Yes, a properly fitting helmet is going to help but there has been advancements in head protection beyond a perfect fitting helmet.

They were great helmets, and still are for that matter, but it's old tech on your head compared to other brands with new protection.
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kkawboy14
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kkawboy14 1/10/2021 5:33pm
1/10/2021 5:33pm Edited Date/Time 1/10/2021 5:34pm
TheVetGuy wrote:
I am buying a new helmet to replace my 6D ATR-1 which suffered a major crash. (That did not prevent from suffering a concussion) My research...
I am buying a new helmet to replace my 6D ATR-1 which suffered a major crash. (That did not prevent from suffering a concussion)

My research on the technology used to offer optimal protection brought me to the following models: Shoei VFX-EVO, Leatt 8.5, Fly Racing Formula and ... 6D ATR-2.

Given my experience with the 6D brand, I want to give my confidence to another brand.

My first choice would be : Shoei VFX-EVO.

Thanks for your opinions !!!
Matthes wrote:
Couple things IMO, one is that you can get a concussion in any type of helmet so don't write that one off because of that. Two...
Couple things IMO, one is that you can get a concussion in any type of helmet so don't write that one off because of that. Two is that to me, its insane to not buy a hemet that has some sort of secondary impact system in it.

We know too much now to know that just having EPS doesn't cut it anymore.

Fly's a big sponsor of Pulpmx so I obviously know more about the Formula. Look up Rheon and what it does. The Fly Formula has multiple systems of safety in them for high & low speed crashes. It's an amazing helmet.
I will comfortably wearing any helmet any Pro is wearing!
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Falcon
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Falcon 1/10/2021 5:41pm
1/10/2021 5:41pm
WhatsStoppingU wrote:
Don’t forget about Arai!
aeffertz wrote:
Arai's tech is far outdated considering it's price tag. Yes, a properly fitting helmet is going to help but there has been advancements in head protection...
Arai's tech is far outdated considering it's price tag. Yes, a properly fitting helmet is going to help but there has been advancements in head protection beyond a perfect fitting helmet.

They were great helmets, and still are for that matter, but it's old tech on your head compared to other brands with new protection.
Much of the “new tech” is to mitigate rotational forces which are already lower on the round shell of an Arai. Adding MIPS, for instance, is like putting a huge turbo on a Civic, instead of running the 5-liter v8 of the Arai. they’ll both get the job done but with different approaches.
I love, love, love my Arais.
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mooch
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mooch 1/10/2021 6:01pm
1/10/2021 6:01pm Edited Date/Time 1/10/2021 6:02pm
crc245 wrote:
ATR-2 is much improved over the ATR-1; If the fit was good for you, it will be even better on the new model. Worth using again...
ATR-2 is much improved over the ATR-1; If the fit was good for you, it will be even better on the new model. Worth using again if you want one of the best for your noggin.

Only other comparable options would be Fly Formula (non-carbon shell), current Bell Moto 9 (Flex version, not MIPS), or wait for the new Bell 10 later this year. Shoei fit and overall quality are excellent, but the shell is quite rigid; probably good for DOT type speeds, but questionable in low speed whacks. Good luck in your search for the best 'premium' lid.
When you say options include Fly Formula (non-carbon shell)...I'd imagine the reason you're saying that is you feel the carbon shell's too rigid?

Was considering a Fly Formula carbon.. so curious about thoughts on Fly Formula carbon vs non-carbon. No doubt like the way the carbon Formula feels so light.

Was also considering the 6D ATR-2 as I have an ATR-1 and like it , other than the large shell.
davidgrip
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davidgrip 1/10/2021 6:16pm
1/10/2021 6:16pm
This Summer I made the switch to Bell Helmets. Went back after a number of years. The fit is perfect. Great air flow in the Summer, hot weather riding. Has the advanced safety features, which riders are looking for in a helmet. Luckily have not had to test. Great option!
8tensolutions
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8tensolutions 1/10/2021 7:28pm
1/10/2021 7:28pm
kkawboy14 wrote:
I will comfortably wearing any helmet any Pro is wearing!
This is not a good plan
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Tuna
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Tuna 1/11/2021 2:43am
1/11/2021 2:43am
Anything ECE rated and not Snell.
I wear Airohs.
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Vet57
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Vet57 1/11/2021 3:44am
1/11/2021 3:44am
Arai or Bell for this ol' dude...
sandtrack315
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sandtrack315 1/11/2021 3:59am
1/11/2021 3:59am
Haven’t seen one bit of real data here. It’s a shame there is not more public data on the helmets we wear. It’s all how we feel about the marketing of the technology and if we happen to have taken a big digger in a helmet.

The AMA or FELD or someone should fund a comparison of the helmets in situations most faced by riders. Until then I go with a mix of what fits best and has good tech. For me, that used to be Arai but now it’s Shoei. Shoei fits me really well, has a pretty smart rotational impact system, and is a trusted helmet manufacturer. The Fly looks great, but I just have a hard time buying something without a longer track record in helmets.
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cdncombatmedic 1/11/2021 9:35am
1/11/2021 9:35am Edited Date/Time 1/11/2021 9:36am
sandtrack315 wrote:
Haven’t seen one bit of real data here. It’s a shame there is not more public data on the helmets we wear. It’s all how we...
Haven’t seen one bit of real data here. It’s a shame there is not more public data on the helmets we wear. It’s all how we feel about the marketing of the technology and if we happen to have taken a big digger in a helmet.

The AMA or FELD or someone should fund a comparison of the helmets in situations most faced by riders. Until then I go with a mix of what fits best and has good tech. For me, that used to be Arai but now it’s Shoei. Shoei fits me really well, has a pretty smart rotational impact system, and is a trusted helmet manufacturer. The Fly looks great, but I just have a hard time buying something without a longer track record in helmets.
Thats just it. People demand dyno charts and "proof" for things like exhaust systems but take a leap of faith with something as important as a helmet. I bought the 6D based on what is available. I truly beleive it is the best available but I would like to see some "proof". I only will buy a helmet that is made solely by a helmet manufacturer.
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LungButter
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LungButter 1/11/2021 10:00am
1/11/2021 10:00am
Funny to see guys write off the Fly Formula because "I only buy from helmet only manufacturers" when it has likely the newest and best technology on the market from what I understand.

If you don't think that Fly/WPS have the resources and budget to develop a good/top of the line helmet, you haven't been paying attention.
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Brent
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Brent 1/11/2021 10:01am
1/11/2021 10:01am
kkawboy14 wrote:
No helmet prevents from concussions!
Exactly.

Concussions are the result of the brain banging into the INSIDE of your skull.

no helmet can help with that.
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CG118
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CG118 1/11/2021 10:23am
1/11/2021 10:23am
It's all in the method/material trying to mitigate the deceleration of your brain bucket so that the brain impacts it with less force.
Do you want your brain contusion paired with styrofoam or a soft elastomer? I'd personally take the elastomer.
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CG118
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CG118 1/11/2021 10:28am
1/11/2021 10:28am
Running shoe analogy. Styrofoam soles would cushion you from a big jump, once. EVA would cushion many steps over a long period of time.
Sorry, not the greatest analogy, but it kind of gives a little extra perspective.
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sandtrack315
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sandtrack315 1/11/2021 10:46am
1/11/2021 10:46am
LungButter wrote:
Funny to see guys write off the Fly Formula because "I only buy from helmet only manufacturers" when it has likely the newest and best technology...
Funny to see guys write off the Fly Formula because "I only buy from helmet only manufacturers" when it has likely the newest and best technology on the market from what I understand.

If you don't think that Fly/WPS have the resources and budget to develop a good/top of the line helmet, you haven't been paying attention.
I would not be surprised if they do in fact have the best helmet on the market. But, in general, there is greater risk with a new product from a company that has never made one than from one that has been doing it for decades. It’s essentially the latest and greatest, with more downside risk, or tried and true, knowing you might not have the best performing helmet. Again, I think Shoei is a nice balance of tried and true with some great new tech in there. But I get why people buy the Fly. I certainly considered it.

More importantly, though, none of us really know how well the helmets perform, and that’s a disgrace.
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LungButter
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LungButter 1/11/2021 10:56am
1/11/2021 10:56am
sandtrack315 wrote:
I would not be surprised if they do in fact have the best helmet on the market. But, in general, there is greater risk with a...
I would not be surprised if they do in fact have the best helmet on the market. But, in general, there is greater risk with a new product from a company that has never made one than from one that has been doing it for decades. It’s essentially the latest and greatest, with more downside risk, or tried and true, knowing you might not have the best performing helmet. Again, I think Shoei is a nice balance of tried and true with some great new tech in there. But I get why people buy the Fly. I certainly considered it.

More importantly, though, none of us really know how well the helmets perform, and that’s a disgrace.
Yeah but it's not the first high end helmet they've come out with. Weren't they also a very early adopter of the MIPS Technology in their F2 helmet.

So essentially we shouldn't trust Rheon until another Manufacturer starts using it?

Not trying to argue, I think this is all great discussion.

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mister2dt
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mister2dt 1/11/2021 11:09am
1/11/2021 11:09am
sandtrack315 wrote:
Haven’t seen one bit of real data here. It’s a shame there is not more public data on the helmets we wear. It’s all how we...
Haven’t seen one bit of real data here. It’s a shame there is not more public data on the helmets we wear. It’s all how we feel about the marketing of the technology and if we happen to have taken a big digger in a helmet.

The AMA or FELD or someone should fund a comparison of the helmets in situations most faced by riders. Until then I go with a mix of what fits best and has good tech. For me, that used to be Arai but now it’s Shoei. Shoei fits me really well, has a pretty smart rotational impact system, and is a trusted helmet manufacturer. The Fly looks great, but I just have a hard time buying something without a longer track record in helmets.
Not 100% certain who makes Fly helmets now, but they have been Bell products for years. Might still be, might not. But, i know for a long time, all Fly helmets were made by Bell.
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Spooner
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Spooner 1/11/2021 11:11am
1/11/2021 11:11am
Isn’t MXGP going to require their new standard this year like MotoGP did a couple years ago? That will give you a good idea who makes safe helmets and who doesn’t as there were several brand that didn’t pass the MotoGP one.
Jt$
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Jt$ 1/11/2021 11:12am
1/11/2021 11:12am
mister2dt wrote:
Not 100% certain who makes Fly helmets now, but they have been Bell products for years. Might still be, might not. But, i know for a...
Not 100% certain who makes Fly helmets now, but they have been Bell products for years. Might still be, might not. But, i know for a long time, all Fly helmets were made by Bell.
Sorry, but this has literally never been true.
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Jt$
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Jt$ 1/11/2021 11:12am
1/11/2021 11:12am
Spooner wrote:
Isn’t MXGP going to require their new standard this year like MotoGP did a couple years ago? That will give you a good idea who makes...
Isn’t MXGP going to require their new standard this year like MotoGP did a couple years ago? That will give you a good idea who makes safe helmets and who doesn’t as there were several brand that didn’t pass the MotoGP one.
No sir.
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Johnny Depp
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Johnny Depp 1/11/2021 11:15am
1/11/2021 11:15am
It has been said that lot's of brands come out of the same factory...
JohnMatrix
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JohnMatrix 1/11/2021 11:50am
1/11/2021 11:50am
bird wrote:
6D or Fly. The TLD seems like a great helmet. But, and it's a huge but, only if you replace it EVERY time you crash. In...
6D or Fly.

The TLD seems like a great helmet. But, and it's a huge but, only if you replace it EVERY time you crash. In a low-speed crash, the softer EPS layer could be compromised and reduce how effective it is on your next crash. With the 6D and Fly (and probably Leatt, though I only know a little about its design), the rubber dampeners can absorb small impacts, like tipping over in a turn, without crushing the EPS. This makes them more durable for multiple impacts. Obviously, after a big hit you should replace any helmet. On this front, I'd give 6D the nod due to their rebuild service. Assuming your shell is okay, they will replace the EPS liner much cheaper than replacing the entire helmet.
I agree, 6D or Fly.

I currently wear the Fly Formula and it's outstanding. I had two TLD SE4 carbon's previously. They are nice helmets, and I think if you go for the less expensive shells (composite) then they are a good buy. As far as spending $600+, the Fly is a much more comfortable helmet and I buy into the Rheon puck technology. Fly Formula vs. TLD Carbon...I'm going with the Fly helmet all day long. If i'm spending around $400, the SE4 Composite is probably a good choice.
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mister2dt
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mister2dt 1/11/2021 11:55am
1/11/2021 11:55am
mister2dt wrote:
Not 100% certain who makes Fly helmets now, but they have been Bell products for years. Might still be, might not. But, i know for a...
Not 100% certain who makes Fly helmets now, but they have been Bell products for years. Might still be, might not. But, i know for a long time, all Fly helmets were made by Bell.
Jt$ wrote:
Sorry, but this has literally never been true.
My apologies then for that. That is what i was told back in 2010 when AXO stopped producing their helmets when the insurance requirements changed. They stopped produxing their own helmets and got out all together from the helmet market. We had discussed what would happen with other gear companies with helmets and if they would stay or go.
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sandtrack315
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sandtrack315 1/11/2021 11:56am
1/11/2021 11:56am
sandtrack315 wrote:
I would not be surprised if they do in fact have the best helmet on the market. But, in general, there is greater risk with a...
I would not be surprised if they do in fact have the best helmet on the market. But, in general, there is greater risk with a new product from a company that has never made one than from one that has been doing it for decades. It’s essentially the latest and greatest, with more downside risk, or tried and true, knowing you might not have the best performing helmet. Again, I think Shoei is a nice balance of tried and true with some great new tech in there. But I get why people buy the Fly. I certainly considered it.

More importantly, though, none of us really know how well the helmets perform, and that’s a disgrace.
LungButter wrote:
Yeah but it's not the first high end helmet they've come out with. Weren't they also a very early adopter of the MIPS Technology in their...
Yeah but it's not the first high end helmet they've come out with. Weren't they also a very early adopter of the MIPS Technology in their F2 helmet.

So essentially we shouldn't trust Rheon until another Manufacturer starts using it?

Not trying to argue, I think this is all great discussion.

Very good point. I agree. They did a great job bringing in awesome tech. But I was not talking about making the best helmet, I was talking about not making any mistakes. If I am going to put my money on a company to not make any mistakes making a helmet, it's Shoei, not Fly.

I think this small point is detracting from my actual belief that Fly does probably have the best helmet on the market.

And from the even more important point that these are all just our intuitions and best guesses, we don't actually know what helmet is the best, and that's the problem.
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Brent
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Brent 1/11/2021 12:00pm
1/11/2021 12:00pm
mister2dt wrote:
Not 100% certain who makes Fly helmets now, but they have been Bell products for years. Might still be, might not. But, i know for a...
Not 100% certain who makes Fly helmets now, but they have been Bell products for years. Might still be, might not. But, i know for a long time, all Fly helmets were made by Bell.
Jt$ wrote:
Sorry, but this has literally never been true.
....what do you know, you have only worked for Fly Racing forever.

the "experts" at Vital are never wrong!! Laughing Laughing Laughing

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