I haven't seen anything on the market yet that would compel me to buy a "smart helmet". I would like some high-tech features that actually enhance my safety and comfort: a HUD that displays information I _don't_ already have, like collision warnings and a wide-angle rear-view camera. An electronically darkening faceshield would be cool. Active noise-canceling so I can ditch the earplugs and enjoy music. As it stands, looking at what the segment offers: I already have comms, I could add a brake light if I wanted one, and I don't see the value of putting my speedo/nav in a crappy HUD when that's already right in front of my face. All this stuff adds weight, as you mention, and you don't realize how fatiguing a heavy helmet is on longer rides until you switch to a lighter one. My current street helmet is a Neotech 2 and though it's great overall, I don't think having a modular is worth the weight penalty (for me) and I plan to go back to a standard full-face when it's time to retire this one. So any "smart" features are going to be a hard sell for me, and had better justify the ounces (not to mention, yet another thing to charge).
No way. How the hell is this called a 'smart helmet'? IT has built in blue tooth. Is my car a smart car because it connects to my phone? Do I need to call my airpods 'smartpods' because they connect to my phone? There's nothing 'smart' about this helmet. It may be a very nice helmet, but it's not a smart ANYTHING. It doesn't do anything on it's own that a normal helmet with premium features and a cardo added to it don't do. And in 2023, I don't consider 'built in bluetooth' enough to call a device smart. Until there's a helmet out there with some actual 'smart' functionality, this entire classification is just a waste. I want a hud. I want to be able to pull up waze from my phone and see it on my visor. I want to see who's calling and then be able to use voice commands to answer if I want to. I want a built in dash/reverse cam. I DON'T want a little block that has to sit a quarter inch from my eyeball to do all of the above...and I'd like it in a helmet that doesn't necessarily have to be the 'most comfortable in class', but should be tolerably comfortable and quiet enough to actually USE the features.
Not a “smart helmet” and only DOT certified which is such a low standard it means it can’t be sold in many markets across the world. So it’s pretty much a comms unit pre fitted into a cheap helmet.
My guy, you might have Gout. If you can't think of what might have caused it, go to a doctor and get a blood test to check your uric acid levels. I'm saying this because when I was around 27 I learned I can get it for the exact same reason. My ankle started hurting and I had no idea why. Turns out it was gout. So definitely get it checked out earlier rather than later.
also fidlock should also be relativly safe, cuz in other communitys they are pretty known for their safety, i even have a friend who makes motorcicle bags who uses fidlock stuff
I love fidlocks for motorcycle bags and such, but they simply do not have the holding power of a double d ring on a helmet and that gives me some worry to be honest
HUD only serves to distract the rider, and take their attention off the road. It’s like having a bunch of flashing lights and screens right on your cars window. I know it seems convenient but it’s far more dangerous
For me the Fidlock is a big plus. I had d rings on my first and now have a Fidlock fastener. I love it, and it’s never come undone on its own (however on the rare occasion I forget to do it up, I can fasten it with on hand. I can’t even do a double D with two gloved hands).
I think it's a safety issue, because double D rings are known to be the strongest. I only drive with double D rings because of that. also can't fasten them with gloved hands but usually when I want to take my helmet off I'll take my gloves off as well
I get the advantage, but I think it's still worse than a double D. Because most people are lazy and don't adjust their chin strap before every other ride, and a loose chin strap is a hazard, whereas with a double d you get a tight chin strap every time. For that reason alone I would never ever consider a Fidlock
@@MaxAndHisBike I feel like I’ve never had my strap become more loose unless I’ve done so intentionally because I’m wearing a thick head and face covering for the cold. Otherwise it stays as tight as I put it all the time.
@@deathownme Fortnine did a strength test, iirc fidlock was 2nd place behind DDs. But to be honest, a crash strong enough to break it will likely kill you anyways
@MaxAndHisBike if ppl are too lazy to adjust their strap when it gets loose they may likewise be too lazy to fasten their DDs. And honestly that's on them 😅
Yup, it's a 3 kilo newton test without breaking and deforming, opening and closing normally after the tests (And if the testing helmet is modular then they test this both in open and closed positions). Plus, unlike DOT (Fuck DOT, outdated piece of shit standard) helmets are actually tested before being certified.
It could be really cool if the two red plastic arrows could be connected wire less to the indicators too. Plug in a transmitter on your bike and have a small receiver and a battery in the helmet.
@@darylclifford I wonder if they originally envisioned them to be lights, but didn't get that part done in time or had a lot of bugs. Result could be the helmet shell was already done and they decided to just leave the red reflectors in. Hopefully 509 sees that we would love to see this working in the future and will develop this further.
Hey Spite, excellent review of the Mach V Commander! Hit the nail on a head with most of the pros and cons. With that whistling sound, it could be the vent, but also make sure the visor is fully latched down. When I got mine and swapped in the Gold Visor, I found that I have to apply some downward pressure to the center before it gives a firm click to lock in and seal. if you try to pinch it near the chin, it won't click no matter how hard you squeeze. Otherwise the only things I hear are wind, my jams, and the sweet supercharged cacophony of my H2SX. I just wish 509 would get a Transition visor developed for it, but we can't have everything I suppose. Hopefully in the future!
Props to you for being honest and fair with your reviews. We need more of this type of reporting on YT in general, and I think it's a big part of the reason you've got the followers you do. Keep it up. Even when we don't agree with you (ahem Versys 650), it's great to get your true thoughts and feelings.
Me with a 139$ helmet used for an e scooter that only goes 25km/h watching what I can’t afford. 💀 the helmet is from the brand ILM, first and best ever motorcycle helmet I ever purchased and is honestly really good for its price.
The ruroc has a fidlock and that was my introduction to it. I was massively against it for a while but i cant fault it, apart from trying to line up the magnets can be a bit fiddly but thats it. Watched a video of a motorcycle being held up off the ground by a fidlock and it was solid.
A D-ring can still withstand double the force/weight though. There's a good reason they don't allow these on the vast majority of tracks. Sustained weight is one thing but sudden violent force from a serious accident above 100+ mph where impacts can be well over 10G's I'm not trusting anything but a D-ring closure.
@@shauns5278 I personally think crashing in those circumstances on a road situation is a bit crazy but everybody rides differently. I, for one, would wear very different gear on a track day compared to riding on the road.
I look forward to a day helmets have front and back safety camera integrated for accident and police encounter protections. I think cam tech is good enough for this to happen, and it would be cool if it can all be synced with your phone.
Police encounter protection? Here's an idea... Don't act like a douchebag when you get pulled over and do what you're asked. You won't need protection.
@@RyT-1000 tell that to the people who are in jail or dealing with charges that are 1. a huge stretch, and or 2. was set up. There's videos all over of cops saying and doing things to get you to incriminate yourself or admit to thing you didn't ever do. Now yes don't act like a douche but in todays world, even innocent people are getting in trouble.
I wish I had my only ever police interaction on a bike. I kept myself in check. But he was begging for a beating. A go pro woulda got me paid for sure. This was in 2009 though.
I had a horrible ankle injury, it was sore forever, around 1 year and i couldn't rest it because I had to work. I bought some things, none worked. I spent a lot on a lace up ankle brace with some Velcro that keeps my let from twisting. Get one of those, they're slim, you can wear it in your shoe and my ankle was almost perfect in 1 week. and perfect in about 2 weeks. if it worked with my ankle, it'll work for yours. mine was swollen almost as big as my calf.
inflating ear muffs is a nice touch. that would help solve a lot of wind noise in most if not all helmets or maybe something like aviation head set muffs those block noise so well.
Klim helmets have had this fidlock strap system for years. If it wasn't solid, we probably would have known by now. I didn't think much of it at first but it's such a great feeling to be able to get your helmet strapped with gloves on really quickly. Also taking it off is so much faster if you don't have to take off your gloves every single time. It seemed like a gimmick but it has become one of the best things about my helmet.
Yeah, it super weirds me out when reviews are just like "here are all the positives, no negatives... I hate it" like wtf. At least say why you don't like it and if it's just "not 50 years old" that's kind of a shit take considering you're looking at a helmet with built-in comms
I agree, Ruroc does it too. I have a helmet with a standard D Ring and a Ruroc. The Ruroc gets chosen just about every time for many other reasons on top of the fidlock... But I do have faith that they have tested this technology in a crash. As long as it is safe and tested, hating on this feature makes no sense to me. Like you say, you can still secure it with gloves on if you forgot to before you put your gloves on when you start, and you can take your helmet off in less than a second with gloves on when you're done.. Can't teach an old dog new tricks type thing I guess. Sorry Spike :D
It probably is safe but I too would not feal great thinking I might undu it mid drive by accident. As a european driver I just love the ratchet locking, it's sturdy and easy to open with my gloves on but it would never happen by misstake. Tried ring locking and hated it coz it takes more time/more fiddly.
I just want to say that I’m in the military and my kevlar(helmet) has that chin release. I freaking love it. It’s very easy to snap on and never moves.
I was wondering if that price would stay. The inflating ear cuffs and the cardo interface are definitely the two features I was most interested on. But like you said, with the price bump, the brow vent and short speaker cable need to be fixed. A flashing mode for the rear light during breaking periods would be great, and some sort of blinker interface with the two red plates in the back would elevate it even more.
@@RyT-1000 all seriousness, the "brake free" modules that are installed on helmetd light up as a bike is slowing down. Probably uses some sort of acelerometer to sense the change in speed. Works without being connected to the bike.
I've been rocking the non Commander version of the helmet this season. Switched to this over my Icon. A little noisy at speed but I like it a whole lot.
My thoughts the two reflectors (R) & (L) right and left possibly be integrated into the turn signals of the bike and the illuminated light bar turned into a break indicator. Better than the D- ring idea the Zip lock type closure would be ideal. As far as the guitar collection I would recommend a few Jacksons’ they just look better IMO…
I love the idea of the 509 Mach V Commander, or the Forcite MK1S Smart Helmet, or the Shoei Opticson, or any other helmet with built in Bluetooth audio, action/dash cam and/or Heads Up Display. Te biggest problem though is that if the helmet suffers a big knock, either from a crash or just falling off a high shelf, then all that tech goes in the bin along with the damaged shell. Kudos to 509 for realising, unlike the others, that their specialty is making helmets & farming out the tech to one of the best in the industry. However, my money goes straight to the first helmet manufacturer that makes an ECE 22.06 helmet with an integrated GoPro mount, recessed mount point to fit most Bluetooth communicators & channels for Heads-Up glasses temples to comfortably fit & wear.
@@damianwykman968 Great news, but it doesn't improve the quality of the camera. I'd much rather have an integrated GoPro mount in the chin so that I can add my own camera.
You want to be careful with how much tech you incorporate into your helmet. You do not want to have a cash that punctures the battery casing and you now have a lithium fire on your head.
Great video. I emailed them a while back here is what they said: Origin made: China. How many shell sizes: Only 2. Materials: It's polycarb. It is indeed heavy. Personally, I would not pay this much money for a polycarb helmet and only 2 shell sizes.
I bought myself a sena impulse which is a modular helmet with a cardo built in, it also has a light on the back and the microphone and speakers are harman kardon, absolutely awesome helmet
Great video and I like the new camera angles. Loved this review, spite! But this helmet is a hard pass. The biggest design feature is one of the worst parts. That peak prevents chinmounting a camera, looks like it will be in your vision when up, and doesn't give any more vision. The cardo is cool but you can't quick swap between helmets, carry it over to a new helmet after you retire this one, or bring it inside to charge. And the light just adds weight for no more benefit than a reflector would provide. I would put this into the gimmick category that prioritizes looks over function. At least it's ece and the air pump fit is a good idea
I'm not against a Fidlock. After riding with one for over a year on one of my helmets, I've yet to have it come loose for any reason other than me opening it. But I can understand the apprehension of trusting your noggin to it. The price hike put it to about the top of the range that I'd pay for a helmet outside of the big 4(ish) manufacturers. You do get some nice accessories on the helmet out of the box, but I'm not sold on the build quality enough to spend coin on it. Great video Spite ✌
when I hear a whistling sound on my helmet, I just tilt my head down about 5-10 degrees and it goes away. This can also be fixed by just pulling down on the chin part of the helmet so that it sits at a lower angle on your entire head. You can test this by nodding "yes" as you ride, and you can hear the whistle go away and come back.
Id actually prefer the Fidlock as my Sedici has a D ring and it can be a bit cumbersome at times. Also if I find myself in a situation where my helmet needs off very quickly i.e. I land underwater or worse id much rather a quick release option. Neat helmet !
@@shauns5278 Being made mostly of EPS (styrofoam), I imagine they float like a cork even when flooded. Commercial diving helmets (only because I used to wear them) are made of either fiberglass or stainless steel and weigh about 30lb on the surface. Underwater and on your head, though, they're basically neutral (weightless). In fact they need a few pounds of brass weight to keep them that way, offsetting the internal air volume. EPS is denser than air, of course, but closer to it than to water. Taking a step back, though, this somewhat reminds me of a friend of mine who refuses to wear his seat belt (despite multiple tickets). His reasoning? If he crashes and the car bursts into flame, he doesn't want to end up trapped. I suppose flying through the windshield and lawn-darting into the pavement _technically_ avoids that problem, but I can't say I agree with the overall risk analysis. Not a fair comparison to the original point here, but still...these aren't the scenarios to be worried about, I'd say.
you are a mad man for wanting a d ring over a quick release. my helmet doesnt have the fid lock but it has the same type of release mechanism and im so happy for it.
I own a 509 helmet as its one of the few helmets in 4xl. I like fidlock as well ,although i never liked d rings( always got the buckles). Disappointed they didnt make these in the bigger sizes.😂
Fidlocks even on backpacks and stuff are actually super secure. It's not secured only by the magnet, the magnet is there only to guide it into the correct position and it makes everything really convinient. You won't open it by accident tho and it is secure. Magnets are awesome
Your audio was really good when you were testing it on the road. Was that through a built in mic from the helmet or your own? Can you share what your setup is?
I just rode with my identical Commander Mach V for the first time yesterday and I agree with pretty well everything you mentioned! My main criticism of the helmet is that the Cardo is so low profile I’m always missing the buttons and having a tough time finding them.
Ps I also hear that annoying whistle you’re talking about! I didn’t narrow it down specifically to that top vent but fully guarantee that’s where mine was coming from as well.
I like the look of the helmet when its got a dark visor on it. I'm not digging the giant visor trend from the Icon helmets. I do like the idea of headphones in the helmet and not speakers persey. 509 has advertising all over the gram and the venting system looks interesting, but I don't know if I want to spend that much on a helmet just to have a helmet with a differentsound system in it and lights up. I get premium comes at a price, but to a street rider, I'm less convinced. The fidlock buckle is awesome. I repeat FIDLOCK IS AWESOME. Have had it on both Rurocs I've owned and its far better than the D-rings on previous helmets and has never come undone without me wanting it to.. This adherence to D-rings is weird at this point when you can have a better magnetic option. Maybe if I trash my current helmet, but not as a swap out of nowhere. Cool helmet though.
I've been using a ruroc atlas with fidloc and I really love it personally. Much easier to use with gloves on (d rings are a pain in gloves) and no issues with it coming undone. Definitely agree with the operational stuff being on the left side.
I've used helmets with straps like that. They are awesome. I love how they're made and its really hard to accidentally un latch it. It's super easy hook, especially with gloves. Please dont remove that feature.
@@Jessienesh saying that everything else is unsafe and dumb, is dumb. Yes d-rings are the strongest, but crashes with enough force to break a fidlock are extremely rare. Surprised you aren't complaining about the strap too since that'll break with enough force as well. The majority of riders cruising around town or even on the highway would be perfectly safe with a fidlock. Almost none of us are racing or going anywhere near a high enough speed to generate that kind of force.
@Jessienesh the only way for fidlocks to disengage is to pull the tab. They're locked in place. I had a bulletproof helmet in which I locked the strap around a pole and I grabbed onto the helmet and it held my full weight. The double rings have been the standard because it cost a lot of money to get the certification. Just because something has been done the way and it's worked doesn't mean we stay with that method or technology. That's how innovation works. You figure out things that work better. It might not work in every situation but it's great for casual riders. Or do you wear a one piece suit everytime you ride since that's the "standard".
Have to say, the Mach V is easily one of the best looking helmets on the market. I'd really like the Mach V carbon with the red accents, and the red visor.
Nice, Scorpion has the inflation system, and G max has the light system, however, unless they have upgraded, it's the same as what is on your demo helmet, You cN also get D rings or ratchet quick connections on your chin strap. Nice review! review!
I've owned a Mach V for about 2 months now. (Not the commander edition) and for the price I suppose it's pretty worth it but my biggest complaint is it was about 80$ for another tinted visor because it only came with a singular clear visor AND it didn't come with a plastic piece that comes installed on the clear visor to actually seal it to the helmet. Now, the quick release system for the visor is amazing, but what is the point if I have to carry a tiny screwdriver to remove the small bolts to switch it to another visor. I also should mention I did reach out to customer service and asked if I could receive that gray plastic piece on the visor and they said no, only 1 is included with the purchase of a helmet and they cannot sell me one or provide one.
Helmet recalls , for a chin strap u have to keep adjusting. Accessories for brake light blue tooth switch . And does it have voice w/ voice choices ? 🤔 Some LED patterns for both sides top and neck lines .. ✓ voice activation module for ignition ..done 🥸
I'd consider one if they made a modular version. I'm interested in the earcup feature, my biggest issue with helmets and speakers is that they always end up pinching the very tops of my ears, no matter the brand. I know it's because my ears are just big, but it prevents me from utilizing any helmet audio system.
$130 Price increase is one hell of a jump in less than a month... Apparently this company doesn't know that they're supposed to slowly increase the stove top temperature ( small increases in price over time ) if they want to boil a frog alive without it jumping out of the pot of water
i reckon they could make an optional extra with the rear lights by having those lights connected to the bike by bluetooth, thus u can have brakes, blinkers n running lights too....chin strap could also be an option on order wqhere u choose which type you prefer
Yk I was talking with my ex and... I told her about my concept bike project and she was like "So you're gonna be like iron man?" That's even better than being a pioneer. @@shvmmah.2.0
I have a pump version and it was less than $300. I saw helmets where the backlight works with the taillight braking. My wife loves the D-rings and won't get a helmet that has anything else. There was a review spot for looking at that I would think should be added for the price. Cardo is great as my wife and I use it. The upper vent is the angle at which the wind comes across it. They need to just move it slightly forward which should change the angle and prevent the sound.
The Fidlock to me is a plus. My current helmet is a Klim Krios Pro which has a Fidlock and you can literally hang from that clasp and it won't let go. Plus it's either clasped or not, there's no half way, whereas double D's can be done incorrectly. I agree the light is a missed opportunity and could also use a selector in cases when you have a passenger. Cardo has always been awesome for me. I still have G4's that I still use as backups! Kicking myself this wasn't available when I bought my Klim.
Okay. I think this is priced well considering how much cardos cost, especially with it being integrated and you don't have it scabbed on the side of your helmet. Now I'm probably going to sound like a boomer but I like my helmets a little more basic. That shield is little too much for me. Especially when you can't chin mount a camera. Now does that helmet come with all those shields or is that something they sent you to show the options?
The first thing I noticed when I put this helmet on the other day was that it looks pretty decent when the visor is closed but I’m not a huge fan of opening the visor and then seeing the riders whole face/mouth, it’s a little odd in my opinion
I own a mach v. I bought the non-command version when they first came out for about 300$usd. It’s ok at best. The biggest downside is the shield will open at speed in a sheer wind. That is to say if you are riding in the wind or looking over your shoulder the shield will open. It does have an ece rating but I think it only passed because the foam is hard as a gd rock. Great for concussions. I would not buy this helmet again and am looking to upgrade.
I'm not going to even consider a helmet that doesn't have a double D ring. Also before buying a helmet always check on the cost of a replacement visor. No matter what, you will need a clear one for night and tinted for the day. I recommend leaving all the electronics in your pocket and keeping your attention on the road. If you buy a basic helmet for 500 dollars all that money goes into safety. If you spend 500 for a helmet full of electronics just how much goes into safety ? 200 dollars ? If you don't want to wear a helmet that's fine. If you are going to invest in protecting your brain it makes better sense to buy a helmet designed with protection in mind instead of novel toys designed to primarily attract buyer attention. I believe in natural selection so buy whatever you want. It's your choice.
The fidlock works really well I've had a couple good crushes with fidlock helmets and they've never come apart also most of the time a $600 helmet costs less than $100 to make and the $500 goes to shipping and profit
@@alexben7462 if you've never driven a motorcycle you can always learn. Your first 3 months will probably determine if you'll live. You'll either be run over because you think you have the right of way just like a 4 wheeler, run in the back of someone. or drop your at the intersection because you put your foot down in the oil patch. If you make it last all that , and you dont keep an attitude you'll probably be okay. You should probably stick to something under 500 CC. when it comes to a helmet, if you decide to wear one, simple is best, preferably full face. Shoei will always be my goto.
About the Fidlock. i crashed on a track doing around 140km/h when my tires gave out and i lowsided. i was wearing a Ruroc Atlast 4.0 which uses a fidlock (Yes it was aprovved by the track safety team before i went out on the tarmac.) i started rolling after i had slid out into the grass. did get 2 broken ribs. but the fidlock stayed latched on. and now i know ruroc gets alot of hate but it save my head. did get a Ruroc Atlas 4 Track after which i am not using because i fucking hate DD ring chinstraps (nerve damage from another crash in 2015 so i have very bad sense of touch in my right hand therefore i cant really strap it in correctly) only "bad thing" i have noticed about the fidlock. is when wearing alot of layers because sweden early spring rides 2-3 +C. it can get caught and "pull the tag" never had that issue in my leathers not in my casual kevlar gear tho. only in my early season attire
@@spitescorner thanks spite -- I have a HUGE head that is weirdly shaped and I need a better helmet and want integrated tech like this has. I'm willing to pay that much or maybe more for the right helmet. Right now I'm using earbuds with a modular HJC and so I'm ready to make a helmet investment for the 2024 season. I would rather rock a $1K helmet that was comfortable and then add the tech than get something integrated which still hurts my forehead after long rides.
There’s definitely a reason the top helmet brands use D rings instead of anything else. They work! and you NEVER have to be concerned of them coming out of adjustment or not working! The issue with controllers being on the right side of the helmet shows me that the designers are not riders, if they were, they never would have made that mistake. Nice looking helmet and I love the inflatable interior! I’ll wait until the Mach VI to see if they fix a few issues
What makes this a "smart" helmet? An intercom and a light? Uh, yeah, NO. A smart helmet has augmented reality/HUD etc. not simply a built in intercom. Call me jaded LoL
So I have a huge issue with gadgets on bikes! Now I don’t know if the issues I have are relevant in the US as I believe them to be here in the U.K. because you have massive roads everywhere but, people in cars are constantly distracted by their toys on the dashboard! I have on several occasions been a victim of these distractions. Now on a bike until relatively recently you had lights,indicators Speedo and rev counter. You concentrated on your riding, no distractions. But they’ve crept in on bikes and it worries me because if you’re fiddling around with buttons on your crash helmet or playing with your touch screen you ain’t concentrating on riding and the result of getting wrong isn’t going to be a bent panel on your car , it’s going to be a trip in an ambulance! You need your hands on the bars and ride that’s what we do ride!!
Everyone... every single review... states the helmets are loud. I don't think they're too loud. But 509 definitely knows their design is loud. It's not terrible.
What they could do to get that brake light to turn on as you're slowing down and potentially solve the whistling problem from the brow vent is something similar to what they put on the tips of airplanes for sensing the changes in air pressure and their speed but it would have to be scaled down to the point where it would register the wind from riding a motorcycle instead of wind 2000 feet in the air going 100/200 mph which wouldn't necessarily be a simple task but I think for the quality it would be worth putting in the work figuring out the design flaws and scaling it down to get it to work properly to wear as the air pressure decreases from the wind flowing through the air vents it closes off a valve completing a circuit and lighting up the brake lights on the back meanwhile still allowing the Vents to be used as intended
So its a bluetooth helmet with Cardo and not a smart helmet? Gonna pass on a 650 bluetooth helmet for the no d rings alone, but whistling vents is also a deal breaker. That's a bummer, the title got my hyped. Love the content bud, and get that ailment checked out, don't take any risks please!
Apparently they have a NON commander version for 299 without the gimmicks, that's a tempting price for a non premium brand with a cool different design
Great review, very informative! I’ve been looking at this helmet for myself, as a snowmobiler. The chase light is better for sledding than a brake light, because when we ride as a group the snow dust covers our tail lights and you lose track of people ahead of you. I’m concerned about that whistle and also concerned about how 509 will insulate the helmet for winter sub-zero use. I ned to see one in person before pinning the throttle to the bars. The Cardo integration is a really strong selling point, though.
@@DNiddy Good point, and I’m not sure. For those who typically use a communicator, it’s cool that this is all built in already - including the battery. For those who don’t use a communicator, maybe it’s still worth it, because you can Bluetooth to your phone to play music, or record audio. I need to see one before I commit that much money for a helmet. Snowmobilers typically pay $200-400 for a helmet, even a fancy one. The price for this one is giving me sticker shock until I can justify it. I can see myself opting for the non-Cardo version, simply because of price, but we’ll see.
FWIW, I bought a new Arai Signet-X that whistled horribly from one of the top vents. I exchanged it for another of the same helmet and that one worked fine. Hopefully you’ll find the same, Spite, with the replacement.
I contacted 509 about the extra strap length dangling on my Commander helmet (same issue) - their engineers were like - Meh, just trim it off and heat the end with a lighter. I'm not a huge fan of the chase light and have it off most of the time - as I'm worried some distracted driver will mistake that for a functioning brake light and rear end me. I will say that the Battery in the commander's helmet is long lasting. I can take it out for 3-4 hours playing tunes the whole time and I barely dent a quarter of its power.
I literally watched this video wearing a SENA headset. I own two of them now. This helmet is cool but unfortunate they don't make a SENA one. Have a good day, Shadetree Surgeon sent me. :)
@@spitescorner all good! I just thought that was pretty cool since not many helmets currently meet the new rating. I got one and have not had issues with the whistling. Hope your second one doesn’t have that issue
They could put a small sensor in the top vent maybe. that can measure speed and will activate the lights on the back of the helmet like break lights when it registers ur slowing down just a thought
I personally won't wear a helmet without snell certification. I like the inflatable pads, Scorpion has that on their exo R1 I believe. I'm curious if those work well enough around the ears to eliminate the need for ear plugs
I agree on the Fidlock. Ryan F9 has a great video on the different straps I am not entirely sure this particular one is on it but he did a lot of the common latches and the results were rather surprising for me. Thanks for the vid spite I have added this helmet and company to a watchlist for myself if they fix that latch I might get one. Cheaper than a RF-1400 and a Cardo...
The only downside to me is there is no place to mount a camera on the chin. I don't vlog but I have a camera on my helmet as a sort of "dashcam" in case I get in a wreck or something like that and the best view is right at the chin. Other than that, this looks like an awesome helmet.
your rear red-light indicator for braking would require the installation of what is called an accelerometer. your smartphone has one in it so yep, they are TINY due to modern tech. basically, at rest (depending on orientation of the sensor) the sensor stays in a 'neutral' or 'off' position. when de/acceleration in speed happens, momentum causes a positional switch to connect and allow an electric current to pass through the sensor and it is now 'on' instead of 'off' from being at rest. the problems with an accelerometer? 1 you jam too hard to the tunes in your earmuffs and bang your head? or nod too hard? or hit a speed bump a bit too 'speedily'? or pothole? or crack/roll your stiff neck? the sensor could trip and turn on and off. of course, depending on how sensitive the accelerometer is and how it is oriented inside your helmet. 2 unlike the indicator lights on your bike, the helmet light would be INDEPENDANT of the actual operation of the bike's brakes, turn signals, headlight etc. and may not be a street-legal safety/brake light. you would have to consult your State's laws concerning this. 3 your smartphone MAY be capable of using its accelerometer in a similar fashion to one installed inside the helmet. THIS idea... i would be HIGHLY suspicious of. your smartphone would have to be correctly calibrated regularly. as well as mounted onto your bike VERY specifically to have your phone oriented exactly... and i do mean within a few MICRONs of adjustment... for your smartphone to correctly work as a braking/acceleration sensor. 4 possibly, just possibly your bike's braking/turning system could be directly wired to your helmet's light. but that is one long wire and might just be overly complex to plug/unplug when you got on and off your bike. but if your CLOTHING was pre-wired with contact patches of a metallic nature... on your ass and inner thighs... and corresponding metal patches were on your bike's seat? each patch could have a wire and work like an electrical connection.
My current helmet has a built in audio system that connects to my phone via blue tooth. One major issue I have is that I need to have the volume turned up all the way to listen to music when going highway speeds due to the wind noise. I ride for a few hours and my ears are ringing like I've just got out of a concert. It looks like it was better on that one but you never covered how loud the audio can get nor at what level it needs to be at to hear it at different speeds. I also don't like how my helmet controls don't allow for a next song / previous song. It has everything else but that. What about the controls on that helmet? Would've been nice to actually go over it. Despite being at max volume, the battery with mine lasts 8 hours. How long does the battery last on that helmet? You didn't say. I'm glad I saw this review because I got my helmet off Amazon for 300 Canadian. I would not pay 650 (likely American) for that. Light on the back? Don't need it. It'll just eat up battery life. No built in camera (mine doesn't either but mine is half the price and could accommodate a chin mount). No sun visor (mine has a clear outer visor but also a sun visor that slides down). Mine also doesn't have an exposed cable at all. Why is there even an exposed cable?
Does this count as a smart helmet? Check out the Mach V Commander here: bit.ly/49m9o9a
anybody else find it scummy that they jack the price after running a digital marketing campaign and not telling the reviewers ... ?
I haven't seen anything on the market yet that would compel me to buy a "smart helmet". I would like some high-tech features that actually enhance my safety and comfort: a HUD that displays information I _don't_ already have, like collision warnings and a wide-angle rear-view camera. An electronically darkening faceshield would be cool. Active noise-canceling so I can ditch the earplugs and enjoy music. As it stands, looking at what the segment offers: I already have comms, I could add a brake light if I wanted one, and I don't see the value of putting my speedo/nav in a crappy HUD when that's already right in front of my face. All this stuff adds weight, as you mention, and you don't realize how fatiguing a heavy helmet is on longer rides until you switch to a lighter one. My current street helmet is a Neotech 2 and though it's great overall, I don't think having a modular is worth the weight penalty (for me) and I plan to go back to a standard full-face when it's time to retire this one. So any "smart" features are going to be a hard sell for me, and had better justify the ounces (not to mention, yet another thing to charge).
No way.
How the hell is this called a 'smart helmet'? IT has built in blue tooth. Is my car a smart car because it connects to my phone? Do I need to call my airpods 'smartpods' because they connect to my phone? There's nothing 'smart' about this helmet. It may be a very nice helmet, but it's not a smart ANYTHING. It doesn't do anything on it's own that a normal helmet with premium features and a cardo added to it don't do. And in 2023, I don't consider 'built in bluetooth' enough to call a device smart.
Until there's a helmet out there with some actual 'smart' functionality, this entire classification is just a waste. I want a hud. I want to be able to pull up waze from my phone and see it on my visor. I want to see who's calling and then be able to use voice commands to answer if I want to. I want a built in dash/reverse cam. I DON'T want a little block that has to sit a quarter inch from my eyeball to do all of the above...and I'd like it in a helmet that doesn't necessarily have to be the 'most comfortable in class', but should be tolerably comfortable and quiet enough to actually USE the features.
Not a “smart helmet” and only DOT certified which is such a low standard it means it can’t be sold in many markets across the world. So it’s pretty much a comms unit pre fitted into a cheap helmet.
bad helmet and bad review of the helmet
My guy, you might have Gout. If you can't think of what might have caused it, go to a doctor and get a blood test to check your uric acid levels. I'm saying this because when I was around 27 I learned I can get it for the exact same reason. My ankle started hurting and I had no idea why. Turns out it was gout. So definitely get it checked out earlier rather than later.
Hello my 27-year old gout brother
@@behmer1879 well, I'm 37 now, but wanted to tell him what it might be.
OH hell, we gout-ed
I second what @blade said….. i had gout since 23 yrs old started out the same while i was in the military in perfect fitness shape !
You’re not wrong
Fidlock is definitley one of my selling points for 509 in general. I love how quick and easy it makes the helmets to take on and off.
also fidlock should also be relativly safe, cuz in other communitys they are pretty known for their safety, i even have a friend who makes motorcicle bags who uses fidlock stuff
I love fidlocks for motorcycle bags and such, but they simply do not have the holding power of a double d ring on a helmet and that gives me some worry to be honest
Sorry, when I saw "smart helmet" I immediately assumed HUD-equipped helmet like we should already have here in 2024.........
HUD only serves to distract the rider, and take their attention off the road. It’s like having a bunch of flashing lights and screens right on your cars window. I know it seems convenient but it’s far more dangerous
This is the exact reason I clicked on this video I thought that's what it was
@@theRealNaplinyou're actually an idiot and everything you said is wrong
This comment infuriates me in so many ways but I know the logical thing is to ignore it. As a compromise I'll just leave this comment.
Why'd you have a HUD when the TFT display does better work?
The audio quality of this setup is amazing.
For me the Fidlock is a big plus. I had d rings on my first and now have a Fidlock fastener. I love it, and it’s never come undone on its own (however on the rare occasion I forget to do it up, I can fasten it with on hand. I can’t even do a double D with two gloved hands).
I think it's a safety issue, because double D rings are known to be the strongest. I only drive with double D rings because of that. also can't fasten them with gloved hands but usually when I want to take my helmet off I'll take my gloves off as well
I get the advantage, but I think it's still worse than a double D. Because most people are lazy and don't adjust their chin strap before every other ride, and a loose chin strap is a hazard, whereas with a double d you get a tight chin strap every time. For that reason alone I would never ever consider a Fidlock
@@MaxAndHisBike I feel like I’ve never had my strap become more loose unless I’ve done so intentionally because I’m wearing a thick head and face covering for the cold. Otherwise it stays as tight as I put it all the time.
@@deathownme Fortnine did a strength test, iirc fidlock was 2nd place behind DDs. But to be honest, a crash strong enough to break it will likely kill you anyways
@MaxAndHisBike if ppl are too lazy to adjust their strap when it gets loose they may likewise be too lazy to fasten their DDs. And honestly that's on them 😅
Regarding the lack of D rings, pretty sure ECE 22.06 tests strap retention, so as long as it’s certified, I welcome more easy to use straps
Yup, it's a 3 kilo newton test without breaking and deforming, opening and closing normally after the tests (And if the testing helmet is modular then they test this both in open and closed positions).
Plus, unlike DOT (Fuck DOT, outdated piece of shit standard) helmets are actually tested before being certified.
It could be really cool if the two red plastic arrows could be connected wire less to the indicators too. Plug in a transmitter on your bike and have a small receiver and a battery in the helmet.
Yes!
I was hoping for the exact same thing. Or even a brake light that could be activated through g force sensors... Not to be unfortunately
Agree too! But I don’t understand why they put the two red plastic bits there without any lights? Was it supposed to work in an updated model?
@@darylclifford I wonder if they originally envisioned them to be lights, but didn't get that part done in time or had a lot of bugs. Result could be the helmet shell was already done and they decided to just leave the red reflectors in. Hopefully 509 sees that we would love to see this working in the future and will develop this further.
Absolutely agree
Hey Spite, excellent review of the Mach V Commander! Hit the nail on a head with most of the pros and cons. With that whistling sound, it could be the vent, but also make sure the visor is fully latched down. When I got mine and swapped in the Gold Visor, I found that I have to apply some downward pressure to the center before it gives a firm click to lock in and seal. if you try to pinch it near the chin, it won't click no matter how hard you squeeze. Otherwise the only things I hear are wind, my jams, and the sweet supercharged cacophony of my H2SX. I just wish 509 would get a Transition visor developed for it, but we can't have everything I suppose. Hopefully in the future!
Your the only person I've ever heard say they don't like the fidlock, everyone I know with it loves it. I love it.
I think the chase light being on all the time is a good one I think it should flash as you slow giving the best of both worlds
Props to you for being honest and fair with your reviews. We need more of this type of reporting on YT in general, and I think it's a big part of the reason you've got the followers you do. Keep it up. Even when we don't agree with you (ahem Versys 650), it's great to get your true thoughts and feelings.
Me with a 80$ helmet watching what i can't afford.💀
Me watching, wondering if I can find the Devil's plateau, start up Airwolf and go for a flight with guns blazing./
80$😮
I'm at 50$ best Helmut I ever had. 😅
😂😂
Me with a 139$ helmet used for an e scooter that only goes 25km/h watching what I can’t afford. 💀 the helmet is from the brand ILM, first and best ever motorcycle helmet I ever purchased and is honestly really good for its price.
🖐️ $60 😆
The ruroc has a fidlock and that was my introduction to it.
I was massively against it for a while but i cant fault it, apart from trying to line up the magnets can be a bit fiddly but thats it.
Watched a video of a motorcycle being held up off the ground by a fidlock and it was solid.
A D-ring can still withstand double the force/weight though. There's a good reason they don't allow these on the vast majority of tracks. Sustained weight is one thing but sudden violent force from a serious accident above 100+ mph where impacts can be well over 10G's I'm not trusting anything but a D-ring closure.
No, it's because no one has spent the millions of dollars to get it certified. It's a big investment to get your product cross certified
@shauns5278 to be fair, though, if you are having a crash at 100+ mph and experiencing 10Gs, you are most likely dead. But I get what you are saying.
@@shauns5278 I personally think crashing in those circumstances on a road situation is a bit crazy but everybody rides differently.
I, for one, would wear very different gear on a track day compared to riding on the road.
No offense intended, but Ruroc helmets are not good helmets. I'll stick with an Arai or Shoei....
Mach V Commander sounds like something you order that "ships discretely"
😂 A dildo?
I look forward to a day helmets have front and back safety camera integrated for accident and police encounter protections. I think cam tech is good enough for this to happen, and it would be cool if it can all be synced with your phone.
Forcite helmets got one camera. Still waiting on a dual camera system
Police encounter protection? Here's an idea... Don't act like a douchebag when you get pulled over and do what you're asked. You won't need protection.
@@RyT-1000 tell that to the people who are in jail or dealing with charges that are 1. a huge stretch, and or 2. was set up. There's videos all over of cops saying and doing things to get you to incriminate yourself or admit to thing you didn't ever do. Now yes don't act like a douche but in todays world, even innocent people are getting in trouble.
@@RyT-1000Here’s a hint about life: Nobody likes a bootlicker. It’s not good for you or anyone else. So quit licking’ those boots.
I wish I had my only ever police interaction on a bike. I kept myself in check. But he was begging for a beating. A go pro woulda got me paid for sure. This was in 2009 though.
I had a horrible ankle injury, it was sore forever, around 1 year and i couldn't rest it because I had to work. I bought some things, none worked. I spent a lot on a lace up ankle brace with some Velcro that keeps my let from twisting. Get one of those, they're slim, you can wear it in your shoe and my ankle was almost perfect in 1 week. and perfect in about 2 weeks. if it worked with my ankle, it'll work for yours. mine was swollen almost as big as my calf.
inflating ear muffs is a nice touch. that would help solve a lot of wind noise in most if not all helmets or maybe something like aviation head set muffs those block noise so well.
Klim helmets have had this fidlock strap system for years. If it wasn't solid, we probably would have known by now. I didn't think much of it at first but it's such a great feeling to be able to get your helmet strapped with gloves on really quickly. Also taking it off is so much faster if you don't have to take off your gloves every single time. It seemed like a gimmick but it has become one of the best things about my helmet.
Yeah, it super weirds me out when reviews are just like "here are all the positives, no negatives... I hate it" like wtf. At least say why you don't like it and if it's just "not 50 years old" that's kind of a shit take considering you're looking at a helmet with built-in comms
I agree, Ruroc does it too. I have a helmet with a standard D Ring and a Ruroc. The Ruroc gets chosen just about every time for many other reasons on top of the fidlock... But I do have faith that they have tested this technology in a crash. As long as it is safe and tested, hating on this feature makes no sense to me. Like you say, you can still secure it with gloves on if you forgot to before you put your gloves on when you start, and you can take your helmet off in less than a second with gloves on when you're done.. Can't teach an old dog new tricks type thing I guess. Sorry Spike :D
It probably is safe but I too would not feal great thinking I might undu it mid drive by accident. As a european driver I just love the ratchet locking, it's sturdy and easy to open with my gloves on but it would never happen by misstake. Tried ring locking and hated it coz it takes more time/more fiddly.
@@peterhallbus1114 I think it'd be tough to accidentally unlatch tbh
@@motomitch maybe it is, would be nice to try myself
I just want to say that I’m in the military and my kevlar(helmet) has that chin release. I freaking love it. It’s very easy to snap on and never moves.
I was wondering if that price would stay. The inflating ear cuffs and the cardo interface are definitely the two features I was most interested on. But like you said, with the price bump, the brow vent and short speaker cable need to be fixed.
A flashing mode for the rear light during breaking periods would be great, and some sort of blinker interface with the two red plates in the back would elevate it even more.
Unless the helmet is connected to the bike, how the hell is the light supposed to flash when braking?
@@RyT-1000 ✨ magic ✨
@@RyT-1000 all seriousness, the "brake free" modules that are installed on helmetd light up as a bike is slowing down. Probably uses some sort of acelerometer to sense the change in speed. Works without being connected to the bike.
I've been rocking the non Commander version of the helmet this season. Switched to this over my Icon. A little noisy at speed but I like it a whole lot.
Is it still possible to install a cardo on the non commander version? That is my only concern on buying one currently
The fidlock is great. Wish it was on all my helmets.
My thoughts the two reflectors (R) & (L) right and left possibly be integrated into the turn signals of the bike and the illuminated light bar turned into a break indicator. Better than the D- ring idea the Zip lock type closure would be ideal. As far as the guitar collection I would recommend a few Jacksons’ they just look better IMO…
I love the idea of the 509 Mach V Commander, or the Forcite MK1S Smart Helmet, or the Shoei Opticson, or any other helmet with built in Bluetooth audio, action/dash cam and/or Heads Up Display. Te biggest problem though is that if the helmet suffers a big knock, either from a crash or just falling off a high shelf, then all that tech goes in the bin along with the damaged shell. Kudos to 509 for realising, unlike the others, that their specialty is making helmets & farming out the tech to one of the best in the industry. However, my money goes straight to the first helmet manufacturer that makes an ECE 22.06 helmet with an integrated GoPro mount, recessed mount point to fit most Bluetooth communicators & channels for Heads-Up glasses temples to comfortably fit & wear.
Very true, but from what I'm looking at you'll be able to move the cardo from one Mach V to another
@@spitescorner That would be awesome if they sold replacement shells. Now, about that integrated GoPro mount.....
Forcite can swap your camera to a different shell If damaged, I have the MK1S and it's pretty damn good.
@@damianwykman968 Great news, but it doesn't improve the quality of the camera. I'd much rather have an integrated GoPro mount in the chin so that I can add my own camera.
You want to be careful with how much tech you incorporate into your helmet. You do not want to have a cash that punctures the battery casing and you now have a lithium fire on your head.
Great video. I emailed them a while back here is what they said:
Origin made: China.
How many shell sizes: Only 2.
Materials: It's polycarb.
It is indeed heavy.
Personally, I would not pay this much money for a polycarb helmet and only 2 shell sizes.
2 shell sizes for 5 helmet sizes. Isn’t that pretty standard?
@@stanliterman24 for cheaper helmets yes. This is helmet over $600.
Are you taking into consideration how much a Cardo system is?
As well as the unique ear pressure sealing?
Basically, it's a $300 helmet. @benvu4416
I bought myself a sena impulse which is a modular helmet with a cardo built in, it also has a light on the back and the microphone and speakers are harman kardon, absolutely awesome helmet
Great video and I like the new camera angles. Loved this review, spite! But this helmet is a hard pass. The biggest design feature is one of the worst parts. That peak prevents chinmounting a camera, looks like it will be in your vision when up, and doesn't give any more vision. The cardo is cool but you can't quick swap between helmets, carry it over to a new helmet after you retire this one, or bring it inside to charge. And the light just adds weight for no more benefit than a reflector would provide. I would put this into the gimmick category that prioritizes looks over function. At least it's ece and the air pump fit is a good idea
I'm still looking for the "smart" part of it, was it the light??
integrated cardo and the rear light yeah, think so @@Fretzton
Just looks cool, that's about it?
This is the first video of yours that ive seen, but when you were reviewing it i thought it was a voice over at 1st. Your mic is awesome.
I'm not against a Fidlock. After riding with one for over a year on one of my helmets, I've yet to have it come loose for any reason other than me opening it. But I can understand the apprehension of trusting your noggin to it.
The price hike put it to about the top of the range that I'd pay for a helmet outside of the big 4(ish) manufacturers. You do get some nice accessories on the helmet out of the box, but I'm not sold on the build quality enough to spend coin on it.
Great video Spite ✌
when I hear a whistling sound on my helmet, I just tilt my head down about 5-10 degrees and it goes away. This can also be fixed by just pulling down on the chin part of the helmet so that it sits at a lower angle on your entire head. You can test this by nodding "yes" as you ride, and you can hear the whistle go away and come back.
Id actually prefer the Fidlock as my Sedici has a D ring and it can be a bit cumbersome at times. Also if I find myself in a situation where my helmet needs off very quickly i.e. I land underwater or worse id much rather a quick release option. Neat helmet !
If you land underwater I think getting your helmet off would be the least of your problems…smh
@@Johnelilopezprobably would add a bit of buoyancy at first tbh
@@shauns5278 Being made mostly of EPS (styrofoam), I imagine they float like a cork even when flooded. Commercial diving helmets (only because I used to wear them) are made of either fiberglass or stainless steel and weigh about 30lb on the surface. Underwater and on your head, though, they're basically neutral (weightless). In fact they need a few pounds of brass weight to keep them that way, offsetting the internal air volume. EPS is denser than air, of course, but closer to it than to water.
Taking a step back, though, this somewhat reminds me of a friend of mine who refuses to wear his seat belt (despite multiple tickets). His reasoning? If he crashes and the car bursts into flame, he doesn't want to end up trapped. I suppose flying through the windshield and lawn-darting into the pavement _technically_ avoids that problem, but I can't say I agree with the overall risk analysis. Not a fair comparison to the original point here, but still...these aren't the scenarios to be worried about, I'd say.
Bigger worry than yeeting into a lake...a friggin wasp trapped in your helmet!
you are a mad man for wanting a d ring over a quick release. my helmet doesnt have the fid lock but it has the same type of release mechanism and im so happy for it.
D ring is most safety solution.
I own a 509 helmet as its one of the few helmets in 4xl. I like fidlock as well ,although i never liked d rings( always got the buckles). Disappointed they didnt make these in the bigger sizes.😂
Fidlocks even on backpacks and stuff are actually super secure. It's not secured only by the magnet, the magnet is there only to guide it into the correct position and it makes everything really convinient. You won't open it by accident tho and it is secure. Magnets are awesome
I see Nathan Explosion on the screen at the end! 😂 Metalocalypse was a great cartoon!
Addendum: and the Thunderhorse Explorer on the wall!
I’ve had Fid lock straps for a few years on different helmets and never had one come undone. It’s so much better than D rings.
Your audio was really good when you were testing it on the road. Was that through a built in mic from the helmet or your own? Can you share what your setup is?
I just rode with my identical Commander Mach V for the first time yesterday and I agree with pretty well everything you mentioned! My main criticism of the helmet is that the Cardo is so low profile I’m always missing the buttons and having a tough time finding them.
Ps I also hear that annoying whistle you’re talking about! I didn’t narrow it down specifically to that top vent but fully guarantee that’s where mine was coming from as well.
I like using the voice commands to control the Cardo.
I like the look of the helmet when its got a dark visor on it. I'm not digging the giant visor trend from the Icon helmets. I do like the idea of headphones in the helmet and not speakers persey. 509 has advertising all over the gram and the venting system looks interesting, but I don't know if I want to spend that much on a helmet just to have a helmet with a differentsound system in it and lights up. I get premium comes at a price, but to a street rider, I'm less convinced. The fidlock buckle is awesome. I repeat FIDLOCK IS AWESOME. Have had it on both Rurocs I've owned and its far better than the D-rings on previous helmets and has never come undone without me wanting it to.. This adherence to D-rings is weird at this point when you can have a better magnetic option. Maybe if I trash my current helmet, but not as a swap out of nowhere. Cool helmet though.
I switched to the AGV Tourmodular and it has the Cardo Insyde Intercom, which is basicly a Packtalk slim integrated in the helmet.
I've been using a ruroc atlas with fidloc and I really love it personally.
Much easier to use with gloves on (d rings are a pain in gloves) and no issues with it coming undone.
Definitely agree with the operational stuff being on the left side.
Fidlock is awesome. Putting on and taking off your helmet in 5 seconds flat is one of my favourite things about the Klim that i own
I've used helmets with straps like that. They are awesome. I love how they're made and its really hard to accidentally un latch it. It's super easy hook, especially with gloves. Please dont remove that feature.
Agreed. Fidlock buckles are amazing. I wish all helmets had them.
There's a reason why the double ring locks have been standard forever and anything that doesn't use them is unsafe and dumb.
Pass
@@Jessienesh saying that everything else is unsafe and dumb, is dumb. Yes d-rings are the strongest, but crashes with enough force to break a fidlock are extremely rare. Surprised you aren't complaining about the strap too since that'll break with enough force as well. The majority of riders cruising around town or even on the highway would be perfectly safe with a fidlock. Almost none of us are racing or going anywhere near a high enough speed to generate that kind of force.
@Jessienesh the only way for fidlocks to disengage is to pull the tab. They're locked in place. I had a bulletproof helmet in which I locked the strap around a pole and I grabbed onto the helmet and it held my full weight. The double rings have been the standard because it cost a lot of money to get the certification. Just because something has been done the way and it's worked doesn't mean we stay with that method or technology. That's how innovation works. You figure out things that work better. It might not work in every situation but it's great for casual riders. Or do you wear a one piece suit everytime you ride since that's the "standard".
i was thinking of getting this helmet for my next purchase, probably in a few weeks, it looks awesome, and the built in cardo will be awesome!
Have to say, the Mach V is easily one of the best looking helmets on the market. I'd really like the Mach V carbon with the red accents, and the red visor.
its a golden visor
Nice, Scorpion has the inflation system, and G max has the light system, however, unless they have upgraded, it's the same as what is on your demo helmet, You cN also get D rings or ratchet quick connections on your chin strap. Nice review! review!
I'll wait until they fix the issues raised. Not sure about the fiddle lock. Only: is it really that 'smart'? I half expected more tech, like HUD.
I've owned a Mach V for about 2 months now. (Not the commander edition) and for the price I suppose it's pretty worth it but my biggest complaint is it was about 80$ for another tinted visor because it only came with a singular clear visor AND it didn't come with a plastic piece that comes installed on the clear visor to actually seal it to the helmet. Now, the quick release system for the visor is amazing, but what is the point if I have to carry a tiny screwdriver to remove the small bolts to switch it to another visor. I also should mention I did reach out to customer service and asked if I could receive that gray plastic piece on the visor and they said no, only 1 is included with the purchase of a helmet and they cannot sell me one or provide one.
They are available for purchase on their website now
Metalocalypse reference.
Helmet recalls , for a chin strap u have to keep adjusting. Accessories for brake light blue tooth switch . And does it have voice w/ voice choices ? 🤔 Some LED patterns for both sides top and neck lines .. ✓ voice activation module for ignition ..done 🥸
I'd consider one if they made a modular version. I'm interested in the earcup feature, my biggest issue with helmets and speakers is that they always end up pinching the very tops of my ears, no matter the brand. I know it's because my ears are just big, but it prevents me from utilizing any helmet audio system.
The ear muff style cups will probably help avoid pinching. There's a lot more room in this for your ears than a traditional helmet
Cool ideas and a good first try. I will def look out for the Mach VI
$130 Price increase is one hell of a jump in less than a month... Apparently this company doesn't know that they're supposed to slowly increase the stove top temperature ( small increases in price over time ) if they want to boil a frog alive without it jumping out of the pot of water
$799 now, lol, what a joke.
Fr! @@thebruce1026
They just found out Joe Biden was president!
i reckon they could make an optional extra with the rear lights by having those lights connected to the bike by bluetooth, thus u can have brakes, blinkers n running lights too....chin strap could also be an option on order wqhere u choose which type you prefer
If i designed a smart helmet, it would have a HUD, night vision and a rear camera, however i dont ride but i am an engineer.
Can you design one that has an iron man HUD?
Us riders would appreciate a dope azz helmet like that ha
Yk I was talking with my ex and... I told her about my concept bike project and she was like
"So you're gonna be like iron man?"
That's even better than being a pioneer.
@@shvmmah.2.0
I have a pump version and it was less than $300. I saw helmets where the backlight works with the taillight braking. My wife loves the D-rings and won't get a helmet that has anything else. There was a review spot for looking at that I would think should be added for the price. Cardo is great as my wife and I use it. The upper vent is the angle at which the wind comes across it. They need to just move it slightly forward which should change the angle and prevent the sound.
The Fidlock to me is a plus. My current helmet is a Klim Krios Pro which has a Fidlock and you can literally hang from that clasp and it won't let go. Plus it's either clasped or not, there's no half way, whereas double D's can be done incorrectly. I agree the light is a missed opportunity and could also use a selector in cases when you have a passenger. Cardo has always been awesome for me. I still have G4's that I still use as backups! Kicking myself this wasn't available when I bought my Klim.
I have two 509 snowmobile lids with the Fidlock, best damn thing ever to come to lids!
Okay. I think this is priced well considering how much cardos cost, especially with it being integrated and you don't have it scabbed on the side of your helmet. Now I'm probably going to sound like a boomer but I like my helmets a little more basic. That shield is little too much for me. Especially when you can't chin mount a camera. Now does that helmet come with all those shields or is that something they sent you to show the options?
Not a boomer. That thing is HIDEOUS!
I feel you. It's not my style, I prefer the usual sport look, but I know some people adore the Airflite style
The first thing I noticed when I put this helmet on the other day was that it looks pretty decent when the visor is closed but I’m not a huge fan of opening the visor and then seeing the riders whole face/mouth, it’s a little odd in my opinion
I own a mach v. I bought the non-command version when they first came out for about 300$usd. It’s ok at best. The biggest downside is the shield will open at speed in a sheer wind. That is to say if you are riding in the wind or looking over your shoulder the shield will open. It does have an ece rating but I think it only passed because the foam is hard as a gd rock. Great for concussions. I would not buy this helmet again and am looking to upgrade.
I'm not going to even consider a helmet that doesn't have a double D ring. Also before buying a helmet always check on the cost of a replacement visor. No matter what, you will need a clear one for night and tinted for the day. I recommend leaving all the electronics in your pocket and keeping your attention on the road. If you buy a basic helmet for 500 dollars all that money goes into safety. If you spend 500 for a helmet full of electronics just how much goes into safety ? 200 dollars ? If you don't want to wear a helmet that's fine. If you are going to invest in protecting your brain it makes better sense to buy a helmet designed with protection in mind instead of novel toys designed to primarily attract buyer attention. I believe in natural selection so buy whatever you want. It's your choice.
Not really. I wore a tinted day n night
The fidlock works really well I've had a couple good crushes with fidlock helmets and they've never come apart also most of the time a $600 helmet costs less than $100 to make and the $500 goes to shipping and profit
That's not how natural selection works if it's a personal choice.
Someone clearly hasn't ridden ... ever.
@@alexben7462 if you've never driven a motorcycle you can always learn. Your first 3 months will probably determine if you'll live. You'll either be run over because you think you have the right of way just like a 4 wheeler, run in the back of someone. or drop your at the intersection because you put your foot down in the oil patch. If you make it last all that , and you dont keep an attitude you'll probably be okay. You should probably stick to something under 500 CC. when it comes to a helmet, if you decide to wear one, simple is best, preferably full face. Shoei will always be my goto.
About the Fidlock. i crashed on a track doing around 140km/h when my tires gave out and i lowsided. i was wearing a Ruroc Atlast 4.0 which uses a fidlock (Yes it was aprovved by the track safety team before i went out on the tarmac.) i started rolling after i had slid out into the grass. did get 2 broken ribs. but the fidlock stayed latched on. and now i know ruroc gets alot of hate but it save my head. did get a Ruroc Atlas 4 Track after which i am not using because i fucking hate DD ring chinstraps (nerve damage from another crash in 2015 so i have very bad sense of touch in my right hand therefore i cant really strap it in correctly) only "bad thing" i have noticed about the fidlock. is when wearing alot of layers because sweden early spring rides 2-3 +C. it can get caught and "pull the tag" never had that issue in my leathers not in my casual kevlar gear tho. only in my early season attire
Check out the Sena Impulse or Stryker helmet. These also have red LEDs on the back, as well as mesh comm.
It costs 650$ and doesnt have a hud? Damn, monochrome display costs like a few dollars.
They have a version with a defroster.
Damn good vid. I look forward to their redesign and your review of that helm.
the price changed... $130? Good Lord... helmet companies are really out there huh
Send the helmet out and up the price 🤓
It does make sense given that it has a built in $400 cardo. $520 was a crazy low price.
@@spitescorner thanks spite -- I have a HUGE head that is weirdly shaped and I need a better helmet and want integrated tech like this has. I'm willing to pay that much or maybe more for the right helmet. Right now I'm using earbuds with a modular HJC and so I'm ready to make a helmet investment for the 2024 season. I would rather rock a $1K helmet that was comfortable and then add the tech than get something integrated which still hurts my forehead after long rides.
There’s definitely a reason the top helmet brands use D rings instead of anything else. They work! and you NEVER have to be concerned of them coming out of adjustment or not working!
The issue with controllers being on the right side of the helmet shows me that the designers are not riders, if they were, they never would have made that mistake.
Nice looking helmet and I love the inflatable interior! I’ll wait until the Mach VI to see if they fix a few issues
What happened to you and Yammie Noob? You guys not friend no more?
He caught Yammie with his best friend 😂
Watching Metalocalypse in the background. Hell yeah!!
It's 700 bucks now roflmao
This economy sucks XD
The fact that you opened the box with a microtech makes me very happy
What makes this a "smart" helmet? An intercom and a light? Uh, yeah, NO. A smart helmet has augmented reality/HUD etc. not simply a built in intercom. Call me jaded LoL
nice Metalocalypse reference 😂 brought me back.
You may or may not think some of us didn't notice that metalocalypse sfx at the beginning but it was what drew me in...
Fidlocks are the best, man. Super glove friendly and in an emergency where your helmet may need to be removed, anyone can do it quickly if necessary
So I have a huge issue with gadgets on bikes! Now I don’t know if the issues I have are relevant in the US as I believe them to be here in the U.K. because you have massive roads everywhere but, people in cars are constantly distracted by their toys on the dashboard! I have on several occasions been a victim of these distractions. Now on a bike until relatively recently you had lights,indicators Speedo and rev counter. You concentrated on your riding, no distractions. But they’ve crept in on bikes and it worries me because if you’re fiddling around with buttons on your crash helmet or playing with your touch screen you ain’t concentrating on riding and the result of getting wrong isn’t going to be a bent panel on your car , it’s going to be a trip in an ambulance! You need your hands on the bars and ride that’s what we do ride!!
I got a red and black mach v. I really liked it. Little loud with the amount of air flow... but... lots of air flow. Good summer helmet.
Yes, definitely the brow vent! 😂
Everyone... every single review... states the helmets are loud. I don't think they're too loud. But 509 definitely knows their design is loud. It's not terrible.
What they could do to get that brake light to turn on as you're slowing down and potentially solve the whistling problem from the brow vent is something similar to what they put on the tips of airplanes for sensing the changes in air pressure and their speed but it would have to be scaled down to the point where it would register the wind from riding a motorcycle instead of wind 2000 feet in the air going 100/200 mph which wouldn't necessarily be a simple task but I think for the quality it would be worth putting in the work figuring out the design flaws and scaling it down to get it to work properly to wear as the air pressure decreases from the wind flowing through the air vents it closes off a valve completing a circuit and lighting up the brake lights on the back meanwhile still allowing the Vents to be used as intended
@spitescorner
So its a bluetooth helmet with Cardo and not a smart helmet? Gonna pass on a 650 bluetooth helmet for the no d rings alone, but whistling vents is also a deal breaker. That's a bummer, the title got my hyped. Love the content bud, and get that ailment checked out, don't take any risks please!
I love the locking strap
Apparently they have a NON commander version for 299 without the gimmicks, that's a tempting price for a non premium brand with a cool different design
Great review, very informative! I’ve been looking at this helmet for myself, as a snowmobiler. The chase light is better for sledding than a brake light, because when we ride as a group the snow dust covers our tail lights and you lose track of people ahead of you. I’m concerned about that whistle and also concerned about how 509 will insulate the helmet for winter sub-zero use. I ned to see one in person before pinning the throttle to the bars. The Cardo integration is a really strong selling point, though.
Is the Cardo a selling point? What is the equivalent CARDO if a rider were to purchase one?
@@DNiddy Good point, and I’m not sure. For those who typically use a communicator, it’s cool that this is all built in already - including the battery. For those who don’t use a communicator, maybe it’s still worth it, because you can Bluetooth to your phone to play music, or record audio. I need to see one before I commit that much money for a helmet. Snowmobilers typically pay $200-400 for a helmet, even a fancy one. The price for this one is giving me sticker shock until I can justify it. I can see myself opting for the non-Cardo version, simply because of price, but we’ll see.
FWIW, I bought a new Arai Signet-X that whistled horribly from one of the top vents. I exchanged it for another of the same helmet and that one worked fine. Hopefully you’ll find the same, Spite, with the replacement.
I contacted 509 about the extra strap length dangling on my Commander helmet (same issue) - their engineers were like - Meh, just trim it off and heat the end with a lighter. I'm not a huge fan of the chase light and have it off most of the time - as I'm worried some distracted driver will mistake that for a functioning brake light and rear end me. I will say that the Battery in the commander's helmet is long lasting. I can take it out for 3-4 hours playing tunes the whole time and I barely dent a quarter of its power.
I literally watched this video wearing a SENA headset. I own two of them now. This helmet is cool but unfortunate they don't make a SENA one. Have a good day, Shadetree Surgeon sent me. :)
Man, this guy deserves so many more subs
Brake light, that would be great. Also how about adding signal indicators as well👍
Actually when you rode with the face shield up, the audio sounded way clearer and better. LOL.
I think one of the huge points you missed was at this helmet received ECE 2206 certification.
I mentioned it was ece certified but forgot the actual number. Good point, and it's an important thing to call out. My bad
@@spitescorner all good! I just thought that was pretty cool since not many helmets currently meet the new rating. I got one and have not had issues with the whistling. Hope your second one doesn’t have that issue
There was never an update video from this and I'm really interested in the helmet's concept
They could put a small sensor in the top vent maybe. that can measure speed and will activate the lights on the back of the helmet like break lights when it registers ur slowing down just a thought
This looks like a dope helmet hope to hear back about the whistle and if they fixed it and the short wire
I personally won't wear a helmet without snell certification. I like the inflatable pads, Scorpion has that on their exo R1 I believe. I'm curious if those work well enough around the ears to eliminate the need for ear plugs
scorpion has it on almost every helmet ive ever picked up, sans the modular line up
I agree on the Fidlock. Ryan F9 has a great video on the different straps I am not entirely sure this particular one is on it but he did a lot of the common latches and the results were rather surprising for me.
Thanks for the vid spite I have added this helmet and company to a watchlist for myself if they fix that latch I might get one. Cheaper than a RF-1400 and a Cardo...
The only downside to me is there is no place to mount a camera on the chin. I don't vlog but I have a camera on my helmet as a sort of "dashcam" in case I get in a wreck or something like that and the best view is right at the chin. Other than that, this looks like an awesome helmet.
Love your vibe man. Cheers.
your rear red-light indicator for braking would require the installation of what is called an accelerometer. your smartphone has one in it so yep, they are TINY due to modern tech. basically, at rest (depending on orientation of the sensor) the sensor stays in a 'neutral' or 'off' position. when de/acceleration in speed happens, momentum causes a positional switch to connect and allow an electric current to pass through the sensor and it is now 'on' instead of 'off' from being at rest.
the problems with an accelerometer?
1 you jam too hard to the tunes in your earmuffs and bang your head? or nod too hard? or hit a speed bump a bit too 'speedily'? or pothole? or crack/roll your stiff neck? the sensor could trip and turn on and off. of course, depending on how sensitive the accelerometer is and how it is oriented inside your helmet.
2 unlike the indicator lights on your bike, the helmet light would be INDEPENDANT of the actual operation of the bike's brakes, turn signals, headlight etc. and may not be a street-legal safety/brake light. you would have to consult your State's laws concerning this.
3 your smartphone MAY be capable of using its accelerometer in a similar fashion to one installed inside the helmet. THIS idea... i would be HIGHLY suspicious of. your smartphone would have to be correctly calibrated regularly. as well as mounted onto your bike VERY specifically to have your phone oriented exactly... and i do mean within a few MICRONs of adjustment... for your smartphone to correctly work as a braking/acceleration sensor.
4 possibly, just possibly your bike's braking/turning system could be directly wired to your helmet's light. but that is one long wire and might just be overly complex to plug/unplug when you got on and off your bike. but if your CLOTHING was pre-wired with contact patches of a metallic nature... on your ass and inner thighs... and corresponding metal patches were on your bike's seat? each patch could have a wire and work like an electrical connection.
My current helmet has a built in audio system that connects to my phone via blue tooth. One major issue I have is that I need to have the volume turned up all the way to listen to music when going highway speeds due to the wind noise. I ride for a few hours and my ears are ringing like I've just got out of a concert. It looks like it was better on that one but you never covered how loud the audio can get nor at what level it needs to be at to hear it at different speeds. I also don't like how my helmet controls don't allow for a next song / previous song. It has everything else but that. What about the controls on that helmet? Would've been nice to actually go over it. Despite being at max volume, the battery with mine lasts 8 hours. How long does the battery last on that helmet? You didn't say. I'm glad I saw this review because I got my helmet off Amazon for 300 Canadian. I would not pay 650 (likely American) for that. Light on the back? Don't need it. It'll just eat up battery life. No built in camera (mine doesn't either but mine is half the price and could accommodate a chin mount). No sun visor (mine has a clear outer visor but also a sun visor that slides down). Mine also doesn't have an exposed cable at all. Why is there even an exposed cable?
Yeah good thing you talked the company into raising their price! Great your job!