Here you go
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http://www.helmetformotorcycle.com/X-Lite_X-551_Review.php
Italian brand Nolan manufactures the X-Lite line of motorcycle helmets, and given their enormous respect in the industry, it makes perfect sense that the X-551 motorcycle helmet is one of theirs. The lid was introduced fairly recently and has already picked up some riders who won’t go anywhere without it. The X-Lite X-551 could be not only the latest crossover helmet, it may be the best.
Looking over the X-Lite X-551 helmet will quickly demonstrate for you just how serious it is at what it is designed to do. The peak visor indicates its off-road pedigree, but the convenient faceshield and chinbar give it the look of a street helmet. And, indeed the X-551 works well in both environments and whatever is in between.
X-Lite constructs the X-551 using a unique composite fiber shell which is laid down in several interlocking layers; this provides for strength, durability, penetration resistance and impact absorption while maintaining a light weight. They also produce that shell in three sizes in order to make the actual sizing as close and efficient as possible. X-Lite uses an EPS internal liner which varies in density and allows for speakers with small pockets in the ear area of the X-551. It is fully compatible with the Nolan N-COM communication system, as expected of such a helmet.
X-Lite employs their “Unitherm Light Racing Comfort” on the inside; this is the same material used in the very high-end lids made by the company. This removable and washable lining is very smooth and feels cool against the skin, but the padding is not as thick as some; this may owe to the intended use. This is integrated with internal air channels connected to the excellent Nolan-style vent ports, which provide proof-positive engagement. Brow and chin vents connect to exhaust areas at the sides, top and middle-back of the X-551.
X-Lite installs a 2.21mm thick faceshield on the X-551 which is also uses a large lift tab, has a scratch and fog-resistant coating that works, and has Pinlock pins for Nolan’s version of that anti-fog tech. The helmet uses a continuous gasket for sealing, but it requires a quick push to seal properly – normal for this type of lid. That Peak visor is designed to flow air through it on the road and is set to integrate with the vents on top of the helmet, and of course can be removed.
A very nice, and useful, feature of the X-Lite X-551 is its internal sun visor that also uses a very well-designed quick deployment and retraction system.
The X-Lite X-551 is painted using Nolan’s own environmentally-conscious water-based paint, and it could not look better if they used the old poisonous stuff (why aren’t all helmet manufacturers using this?) and the clear coat on top of it is very hard and should hold up to abuse quite well. Each and every one of the fasteners is top-notch and installed with fit and finish which give the X-551 a very solid feel.
Installing the X-Lite X-551 on your head is an easy enough process, but the X-551 does run a little narrow, so make sure to try one on before you buy. Once the right size is used, though, the fit is comfortable and the view through the faceshield is wide and very clear. You will be surprised by the weight, though, as the X-551 is rather light for the feature set it possesses; it weighs in at only about 3.5 pounds (1594 grams).
Noise in the X-Lite X-551 is fairly good for this type of helmet. There is noise through the top vents and coming in from underneath the helmet; the latter would be helped by simply improving the neckroll by making it a bit thicker. Overall, though, it is not enough of a problem to stop someone making a companion of the X-551. That complex ventilation system designed into the X-551 by X-Lite works a treat, and even the hottest weather should be bearable within its confines.
Wearing the X-Lite X-551 for any duration will convince you of how well Nolan does what they promise to do – it is comfortable, well-constructed, safe and very pleasing to look at; the X-551 excels at these attributes. The adventurous in spirit will feel right at home on their long-distance, highly-sprung, multi-purpose motorcycle. With the N-Com system in place, the rider can even communicate with others in the group or listen to their favorite music. Yes, the X-Lite X-551 crossover motorcycle helmet is a favorite choice for those who it fits – and it will fit them well – and is the kind of lid you buy and keep until you wear it out, whenever that will be…
The X-Lite X-551 is only ECE 22.05 certified presently, but DOT approval will hopefully come soon. As it is, it can only be purchased from overseas now, but you can count on the lid being very safe
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