Pro-Tec Cyphon SL Helmet Review

Pro-Tec helmets have been linked to the skateboarding industry as long as anyone can remember, so it might come as a surprise when you come across a mountain bike specific product such as the Cyphon SL helmet.

Pro-Tec Cyphon AM helmet in matte black

Product Tested: Pro-Tec Cyphon SL
Construction: In-mold micro shell with removable, lightweight nylon visor
Weight: 380g
Intended Use: XC and AM.
Retail Price: $119.95

Pro-Tec Cyphon SL Interior

DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION
The Cyphon SL helmet’s design is a stark difference from the bowling ball skate helmet of yesteryear and for 2012 it sports 3 color ways – all in a matte finish: Black (shown), Army Acid Green, and White. From the outside you’ll immediately notice the handsomely sculpted shell with 15 enormous vent holes which will keep most hot heads ventilated during rides. I was impressed with the overall form factor and and give it high marks for pure styling.

The construction quality looks to be on par with other popular brands in this category. The exterior shell is molded to the EPS inner core, this makes for a lighter and stronger uni-body construction that smoothly blends the 2 materials together. In fact, I found it difficult to make out any noticeable seam where they meet.

FIT & PERFORMANCE
The interior uses laminated polyester mesh padding in key touch points for a comfortable fit with minimal material usage to keep airflow moving. The straps are standard nylon for durability and are adjustable to get the right comfort and snug fit around the ears and jaw. They snaps together with a standard plastic release buckle.

The bling factor on the Cyphon SL is the BOA fit system. This system works similar to a single lacing system in performance shoes and snowboard boots. An adjustment knob (in the rear) tightens the thin cable which pulls evenly on the rear support cradle, providing a custom tension fit to accommodate varying head shapes. If you need to make an adjustment in case you’re lending the helmet out to a buddy, you simply pull the knob outward; this will release the locking mechanism and your buddy will simply put the helmet on, push the knob back in and turn to the desired comfort fit — and away you go. Super simple.

Cyphon SL front view

Pro-Tec Cyphon BOA Fit System

As you speed along, airflow of the helmet works well with 9 vent holes on the front and top portion and allows air to be pushed in. In the rear, 6 vent holes act as exhaust vents to get the hot air out and keep air flowing from the front to rear as it should. Even though the helmet I tested was black and I was concerned about heat, I found the airflow to work nicely and it didn’t feel especially warm. I thought it worked beautifully as well as being light.

PROTECTION
Protection on the Cyphon is very good all around. With good coverage in front, top and ample coverage in the rear and lower skull areas. It also has enough overhang to keep the ears tucked inside for added protection. It is safety certified with the following: CPSC 1203, AS/NZS 2063:2008 and CE 1078. What all this means is that it’s been tested so your melon will be protected in the event you happen to feel the urge to meet the ground.

For more information on the Cyphon SL or other Pro-Tec products, visit their website. Pro-Tec is a sub brand and operated by Vans, Inc. located in beautiful Cypress, California. Customer Service number is (800) VANS-800.

GOOD: Understated and stealthy looks. Big-A$$ vents to keep air flow going and the BOA fit system to keep things secure and comfortable so you can concentrate on your shred.
BAD: It runs a bit narrow for more oval heads and could be slightly lighter. Higher in the price scale at $119.95 retail.

Reviewed by Qwan Pham

2011 Urge Bike Down-O-Matic Helmet Review

Urge Down-O-Matic Helmets. Sizing S/M (54/57cm) and L/XL (58/60cm).

I learned about Urge helmets last summer and was intrigued by their unique styling and good looks; after seeing them in person at the 2010 Interbike show I had to get a hold of one as soon as possible. Since they weren’t in stores and not available in the US till late December 2010, I called South Shore Bicycles out of Colorado and got a Down-O-Matic to test.

DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION
My first impression was the graphics was fresh and different. It just didn’t look like anything else out on the market and that a big feature (vent holes) of the helmet was thoughtfully integrated into the overall design aesthetics. Shown above are 5 colorways (L to R) Black Veggie, Palace White, Impact Black, Monaco Orange/Yellow/Black and Frisco Blue. While most companies copy the big dogs, Urge rose above the moto-inspired themes and created its own identity. This type of thinking also lends itself well to being more innovative. Thinking different and offering a product at a good value is what customers want. And Urge Delivers that in a light, well-vented and affordable product.

The finish on the helmet is pristine and reminds me of a new car. The paint job is flawless. Black being a color that shows imperfections the easiest, I found none. Fabrication is superb. Along with the good looks, the helmet is light, the one tested in a S/M size weighed in at 1010g. A noticeable feature of the helmet are the huge vent holes; 4 on the top front, 2 on the top rear and 2 on the face guard. These holes are grilled to keep debris out but their size and shape appear to be modeled after more lighter helmet design (often used in cross country and road helmets). The construction is made from a fiberglass shell with a sturdy foam core like most helmet construction. But unlike other DH full face helmets, the down-o-matic is lined with a double layer of light mesh fabric. This helps cut down on weight as well as prevents sweat from being soaked up — creating a more breathable interior that allows air to vent more efficiently. In fact, I can actually feel a breeze on top of my head when I’m speeding down a run. Something I’ve only felt with XC lids.

For medium to large goggle frame size, you will be limited in your choice. I have tried, Oakley, Smith and Thor goggles but these frames did not clear the opening. This could be a big deal if you prefer to wear larger frames because you either have a large face or perhaps you wear prescription glasses under your goggles. So far, the only goggles I have had success with are the VonZipper Sizzle MX and the Spy Optic Alloy. These work beautifully and there’s no issue.

FIT & COMFORT
One manufacturing innovation I appreciate is the dual sizing. You’re actually getting 2 helmets in one. This is achieved by two sets of padding inserts of different thicknesses. In the S/M helmet, I use the thinner pads intended for a medium sized head, if I ever decide to pass this helmet on to my wife let’s say, it’s as simple as switching out the 3 pads, and I can hand this off to her in a minutes time. Very easy switch. There is also 2 sets of cheek pads at the sides to get a more custom fit depending on your face size. With the 2 different padding size, I was able to mix and match to get the perfect fit since I was closer to a small/medium vs a true medium — not too many other helmets will accommodate for half sizes and this one does it. Bonus!

Testing the Frisco Blue Down-O-Matic. Photo Erich McCoy.

The comfort of the helmet is good and I might even say it’s great, but it isn’t plush. Knowing that this helmet was designed and tested by pro-racers, this is a matter of performance. Think of it as the race car, what goes on or in has to serve a purpose of getting more performance. Comfort can be derived from weight savings, your neck and shoulder muscles aren’t as fatigued. It can also be attained in ventilation, this helmet rides cool and if you hike a bike in some sections like I do, you can keep it on. That being said, after a few rides, the padding has contoured to my melon and feels about as natural as a full face can feel.

PROTECTION
Lucky for you all, I actually played the role of crash test dummy and took a spill right on the crown of my head. It was a relatively good crash, good meaning, I was dazed momentarily. First thought I had was, damn! I just ruined the finish on the helmet but then I thought, holy crap, I’m not hurt. Sore as hell and feeling like I had a hangover but not hurt. I got the helmet off and saw that I cracked the visor on its side, but the rest of the helmet survived with minimal cosmetic scuffs. Granted, I was lucky I landed on a downside of a transition, on soft dirt, that minimized my injury more than anything, but the harsh reality of it is, without helmets, this sport would not exist.

Structurally, I couldn’t find a flaw so the helmet can live to serve another day. I was bummed that the visor broke since it was designed to flex (and perhaps not break) but this is clearly a safety measure. One that reduces the chance of the helmet shifting as a result of the visor striking the ground (or object) first and moving the helmet off the head. I think this is one detail where real racing experience and knowledge is specifically designed in. Its these types of details that new product introductions can distinguish themselves from a me-too product and I love them for it.

NOTEWORTHY
Ever the earth-friendly minded company, (pictured left) the Veggie Linen model is intended to compete in the carbon fiber market. According to Urge: “The natural resources needed to produce this helmet are low because of the low energy needed to produce the fibres compared to traditional composite materials. This also allows a healthier working environment of the people producing the helmet. Most of this helmet is naturally biodegradable, although it is not yet possible to make a totally recyclable helmet, the Down-o-matic veggie starts a new way of thinking about how helmets are produced…”. The Veggie Linen retails for $299.95.

Urge Bike helmets is a French company located near Saint Tropez on the Mediterranean, much of the R&D has been done by Fabien Barel, a former World Downhill Champion. Along with the Mondraker Team riders, Fabien has created some of the most attractive helmet designs across 4 different models (Down-O-Matic, Endur-O-Matic (review to come), Archi Enduro and Dirt-O-Matic). Urge helmets are available in select shops or at Huck-n-roll.com. They are distributed in the US by South Shore Bicycles out of Colorado. More information on Urge helmets can be found at urgebike.com.

GOOD: Racer design. Awesome finish and visceral appeal. Light-weight. Cool venting. High-quality protective bag. Overall a great value at $179.95 retail.

BAD: After 3 months of use, the interchangeable padding shows some wear. The visor hardware is soft and will strip if over-tightened. Limited goggle support.

Reviewed by Qwan Pham

URGE Helmets

Protec Helmets

POC Helmets

Evolution Carbon Nouveau Review

For 2010 the Evolution carbon helmet goes Fast Times at Ridgemont High (80s retro movie for you youngsters). Think checkered Vans, OP shorts and lightning bolt polos. Hey dude, let’s party!

The new paint scheme is a sharp departure from the 09 model where it was more like tribal organic lines meets hotrod pin striping. This paint scheme is a throwback to the 80s graphic style done in a new and improved fresh look. I dig it.

DESIGN
The design of the helmet from 09 to 10 has not changed. Still easy on the eyes with it’s elegant curves and edges at the back of the helmet. Vent holes are all in the same places and provide adequate ventilation. It’s offered in 2 paint schemes, black/grey/cyan and if you’re bold enough, go for the black/purple/pink version – just make sure you have matching pink gloves and shoes to complete the look.

The padding can be removed for washing like most helmets these days. A good tip I’ve come across to avoid washing is to wear a skull cap. Essentially, this is a sock for your head.

FIT & COMFORT
It goes without saying that fit is important and for two very good reasons. 1. You don’t want it to move on you while riding because it’ll effect how you can see out of the helmet. 2. Safety. If it doesn’t fit, it won’t protect you. Depending on the shape of your head, helmets fit differently so it’s always smart to try them on at a local bike shop if you decide to buy one online (that’s where the best deals are).

I have tried on 5 brands. Giro, Troy Lee, Bell, THE and 661. All good quality helmets. I really wanted the TLD but my head would not fit in one of those. My head is round and wide, out of the five brands, the Bell, THE and 661 offered the best fit. If you have a long oval-shaped head (meaning long and narrow), any of the brands would work. But if you have a round and wide head like mine, you’ll be limited.

When you think about comfort in a helmet, most of them use really nice materials inside. This helmet has soft and supple lining. I almost dreaded the fact that I was going to sweat in it. What I like about this helmet is that it has an all around good fit without any weird pressure points. Even with my wide face, I didn’t feel like my cheeks were being pushed in. Just like a shoe, you want to make sure you get the right width or you’ll feel like there’s a vice on your head.

Riding with 661 Evolution Carbon Nouveau.

FUNCTION & DURABILITY
The main thing with a full face is how quickly can you put it on and take it off without thinking about it. It should be like putting on a t-shirt; this is what I like about this helmet. Even with gloves on, I can easily toss it on, put the chin strap through the double metal loops and secure the loose end to a snap button. As mundane as this action is, I’ve had other helmets that required a little more effort to don. The visor is easy to tilt up and down by loosening the center bolt under the visor. I suggest once you find a good position, tighten it down good and use a quarter to tighten the outer screws on each side of the visor to prevent it from moving.

My biggest fear with using a carbon helmet is it shattering or splintering during a fall that would render it useless. This may be true to some extent but the upside is weight savings and a killer look. If you’re wondering if carbon fiber is a tough material, look no further than armor jackets that cops wear or airplanes you fly on — that’s right, they use carbon fiber. You don’t need to lose any sleep wondering if it’ll hold up. In fact, I’ve had two crashes with this helmet, other than a few cosmetic scuffs, the integrity of the helmet has not been compromised.

WARRANTY
When you buy a full face helmet, it’s understood that one day, you’re going to go down and you’ll be one happy buckaroo knowing you were wearing one – and feeling pretty smart you got one to begin with. That’s where I think sixsixone is such a great buy, because they have one of the best crash replacement programs. You can get a new one and will be back out on the trail in no time. Take it from me, I’m a happy benefactor of it. You can find them on the web at sixsixone.com or call toll free 888.520.4888.

GOOD: Sleek, elegant design. Quality materials throughout. Comfortable and tough. Crash replacement program is incredible.

BAD: Crashing and ruining the shiny finish. Area of improvement would be to reduce the overall outer diameter size, it’s bigger like a moto helmet so the swing weight could be less.

Reviewed by Qwan Pham