Recently purchased the new KBC VR3 helmet to replace my VR1.
KBC Helmets
Background: I got it because my newest motorcycle (2005 Victory 8Ball) has no fairing and at speeds over 70 mph I was experiencing alot of helmet lift. I figured when my 05 S3 came in, I would have the same problem.
Style: Helmet is a knockout - super clean lines with aggressive styled chin vents. My riding compadres all thought it was one of the best looking helmets they have seen. FYI mine is black.
Functionality: New shield mechanism is superb. Firm ratchet points that hold position at speed. Note: Shield does not lift as high as the old VR1. Vent open close switches are easy to operate even with heavy gloves. Simple slide for chin vents, and top vents. Top vent slide is on the front of helmet, so no more fumbling with the back of the helmet while riding.
Comfort: Very comfortable helmet. Excellent snap out lining with what feels like multiple density padding. Much less wind noise than my VR1. Very light - noticeably lighter than the VR1.
NOTE: the helmets run smaller than the VR1. I normally use a medium helmet, and on the VR3 I had to return and get a large.
Performance: Helmet is the most aerodynamic that I have ever tried. Extremely calm even at triple digit speeds - no buffeting what so ever. You can even turn your head without any appreciable push on the helmet. Ventilation is also at the best I have ever experienced - it flows up the shield and gently circulates around the face. However even with vents closed you get alot of fresh air, so cold weather riding may require a face mask. It should be extremely refreshing to have the extra airflow during the hot riding season. Best of all - absolutely no lift even at triple digit speeds. This is a testimonial to the aerodynamic engineering both of the helmet shell and the wraparound underliner.
Price: CycleGear $249
Manufacturer says:
VR3 Stealth
Advanced Sports Touring Helmet
Top of the range Sports Touring Helmet, designed specifically for long haul rides. Styled for maximum aerodynamic comfort from wind turbulence and wind noise. Fully balanced weight distribution and reduced physical dimensions to provide minimum neck strain and maximum long distance comfort. Features the new KBC Optically Perfect Complex Curve 2.2mm scratch resistant visor. And the completely new Ultra Quick Visor Release mechanism for instant visor removal (with no tools). The visor and its mechanism are designed specifically to interact with the aperture sealing extrusions to provide a perfect seal from wind noise, rain and wind disturbance. The visor itself features a unique sealing RIB which projects into the soft special rubber sealing trim. The Stealth-VR3 shell is made from specially selected high performance tri-composite aramid fibers and impact resistant epoxy resins. The Stealth (VR3) uses the latest bag moulded construction which provides ultra controllable shell integrity and totally consistant shell gauge along with precision accuracy which is essential to allow the correct alignment of such critical mechanisms as visor ratchet action and visor sealing performance.
The Stealth VR3s interior follows the usual high standard that KBC is becoming famous for in terms of interior comfort lining. The Stealth VR3 is one of a new brand of KBC helmets that have been engineered using a totally new ergonomic platform, which we believe to be one of the best fitting helmet internals available on any helmet available. This provides the rider with exceptional comfort and safety performance, providing the tightest and snuggest fit whilst allowing superb levels of rider comfort. Finished in high performance micro fiber which not only provides a cool and non allergenic contact with the skin, but also wicks away moisture build up providing the rider comfort in all weather conditions.
Rider comfort is also enhanced with a thoroughly designed and tested air ventilation and circulation system, featuring controllable frontal air intakes that re-direct air flow onto the inner visor surface, without disturbing the riders eyes or vision (like so many helmets). This air flow is then allowed to be directed into the inner helmet channels, assisted by the top air intake pod, which accelerates the air flow (Venturi Principle) thus pulling old air from the riders face area and channeling through internal air ducts machined into the inner EPS shell liner and distributing the used and stale air out of the helmets shell through rear air exhaust vents in the rear of the shell and rear lining.
[ This message was edited by: 1fastcat on 2005-04-26 12:14 ]
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