Schuberth’s long awaited E1 helmet might just have the perfect blend of safety and function that adventure riders have been asking for. The proof is in the fit and function, but before we get to that, let’s review the long list of impressive features.

First and foremost, Schuberth has long been an international leader in helmet safety. From their plant in Germany, they manufacture a wide range of headgear, including not only motorcycle helmets, but also carbon fiber racing helmets for Moto, F1 and NASCAR. Their own wind tunnel gives credibility to their claims of quietness and a design that minimizes lift and buffeting.

The most obvious feature of this helmet is the adjustable, and quickly removable, peak visor that follows the chin bar as you raise and lower the bar. Additionally, the optical quality face shield with a PinLock anti-fogging lens has patented Turbolators to eliminate whistling at the top edge of the shield. A retractable, replaceable sunshade nestles behind the shield and operates easily with a gloved hand.

The cheek pads and interior shell are made with COOLMAX and other high tech materials to wick away perspiration with anti-bacterial properties. All can be removed for washing. Compared to the E1’s sister helmet, the vaunted C3 Pro, there is substantially more ventilation, a necessity for a helmet that must handle substantial slow speed off-road use. There is a high-capacity vent at the top of the helmet with flaps on the inner liner allowing the airflow to be adjusted for summer or winter riding. A vent just below the face shield will help keep it fog-free. The chin guard has a large grilled opening with a washable filter to keep the air flowing and the bugs out of your mouth. It is anchored with an anti-roll-off strap secured with a micro-ratcheting mechanism, rather than conventional D-rings. Another feature is a built-in antenna for use with the optional Schuberth SRC Bluetooth communication system that seamlessly lives in a replacement collar that will not disrupt airflow around the helmet.

In use, the helmet fits like a dream. Although your head might be shaped differently, this helmet cradled mine in premium materials with no pressure points. On the road, Schuberth’s claims of a quiet, light and well ventilated helmet proved true. Riding with the visor in place, there was no noticeable lift with the helmet in any of the three positions. I appreciated the visor when riding into the setting sun, but found that above 70 mph, I would encounter buffeting when in traffic. Without the visor, the buffeting disappeared; not an issue, since the slightly flexible plastic visor pops on and off with a simple twist of the knobs and will easily fit in a tank bag or pannier. I also tested one of the optional tinted shields; perfect for riding the open West where blinding sun can be fatiguing.

Of course this is not cheap, but as the saying goes, “What’s your head worth?” The helmet is also backed with a five-year guarantee. All in all, the E1 sets a higher standard for adventure helmets; and yes, in my book the “E” does stand for Excellent! MSRP: From $829 | Additional shields from $89 Schuberth.com

Where to Buy:

{gallery}ARTICLES/Gear/Schuberth/E1/Gallery{/gallery}