I was given the opportunity to review a product from a company I knew nothing about, LS2. With the initial once over, I loved how it looked with a villain fighter pilot feel to it. I checked the MSRP expecting to find a $400-plus price tag. The soft touch of the comfort liner alone led me to believe it would be in the Arai helmet price range. Nope, just over $200!

The Metro Rapid weighs in at four pounds. It’s 3D optically correct visor with quick release hosts a Fog Fighter System, a wide field of view, is scratch and UV-resistant. The internal sun shield is also optically correct and operates smoothly. My favorite feature is the six different detents the shield offers, none of which hinder or restrict viewing of dashboard gauges or the road. My Sena communicator fit perfectly into its prefabricated indentations. And last but not least is the quick release reinforced chin strap. I normally feel a bit claustrophobic with the typical D-ring system, but I don’t with this. I can secure the helmet safely and don’t feel like I’m being choked.

On the positive side, the liner material didn’t make my head itch. There’s nothing worse than that itch on the top of your head that you just can scratch. I got plenty of air through the venting, and I don’t look like a bobble head doll. So far, so good... but after about 400 miles wearing the LS2 I came across a couple of issues. First, the helmet is fairly noisy, which apparently modular helmets commonly are. This surprised me because when I put the helmet on, it dampens sound. The loudness seems to derive strictly from the wind. Second, I started to get a headache from the cheek pads crushing against my face when the helmet was closed. I knew that with all helmets, there is a break-in period, but upon doing some research, I learned LS2 has corrected this issue due to consumer complaints.

Despite the minor issue I had with the helmet while riding, my overall impression is that this is a terrific budget helmet for riders who like to feel the wind in their face. And I applaud LS2 for listening to their customers and taking immediate action to correct negative feedback. You can tell by the features and comfort of this helmet that they care about you. They made a quality helmet at an affordable price. MSRP: $200.00 LS2Helmets.com

Where to Buy: