Product Review: Scorpion VX-R70 Enduro Helmet

[MotoNews]

Published in: Gear

For those true dual-sport riders out there that ride gnarly single-track and backcountry trails, the average dual-sport-style lid isn’t going to cut it. This type of off-road riding necessitates an equally hardcore helmet. Tested and abused by professional endurocross athletes around the world, the Scorpion VX-R70 helmet has been baptized and blessed by Dakar riders and dual-sport travelers alike. For those who aren’t Dakar Rally ready, the VX-R70 is notable in two primary ways—its weight and comfort.

Ounces equal pounds, and pounds equal pain. It may not seem significant, but the fact that the VX-R70 comes in at nearly a quarter-pound less than its competition is incredible, especially when dirt helmets tend to weigh so much less, to begin with. The VX-R70 rings in at an impressive 2.98 pounds—a feat attributed to Scorpion’s TCT (Thermodynamic Composite Technology) used in the construction of the helmet’s shell. TCT shell construction features a blend of fiberglass, Kevlar, and organic poly-resin fibers.

What this means for those who aren’t chemical engineers, is that Scorpion has successfully created one of the strongest and lightest shell designs in motorcycling. In fact, the shell is so strong that Scorpion claims automotive polish will remove blemishes and streaks from the shell itself.

In addition to the lightweight properties that TCT provides, the VX-R70’s padding features dual-density EPS foam. Not only does this help to further reduce the helmet’s overall weight, but also increases rider comfort, especially when paired with the VX-R70’s moisture-wicking liner system. This helmet liner works to draw sweat and moisture from the rider’s face, facilitating evaporative cooling, and keeping the rider comfortable in hot riding conditions. However, Scorpion didn’t stop there in efforts to keep its customers and racers comfortable. The VX-R70 also has Scorpion’s AirFit cheek pad system on board.

The AirFit system creates a custom fit for each and every user, with the help of an inconspicuous air bubble, positioned in the chin of helmet. This air bubble is designed to be depressed by the rider to inflate the cheek padding system within the helmet, creating a snug fit. Located near the air bubble is a small button to release the air when removing the lid. I found the AirFit system to be one of this helmet’s greatest strengths, as it promotes rider confidence and ultimately, rider safety.

As far as ventilation goes, the VX-R70 is on par with most off-road helmets, but with the aforementioned moisture wicking liner, the rider experiences little discomfort due to hot and humid air trapped within your headspace. Not really a miss, but at high speeds the VX-R70 is at the mercy of the wind, due to its visor. This, however, is a characteristic of nearly all dirt helmets on the highway.

In terms of color options, the VX-R70 comes in a variety of graphics and solid colors to match any gear and bike. The VX-R70 is highly competitive when it comes to price, coming in around two-hundred dollars. Companies producing off-road helmets and charging twice to three times this amount should be humbled.

Scorpion has become a household name in the adventure riding community, and much like the insect, they have become known for their durable and high-strength rider exoskeletons. But I urge you to not take my word for it, let the VX-R70’s successful track record in Endurocross speak for itself. The VX-R70 is a favorite of extreme motorsports athletes around the globe and has been worn by world champions of the Baja 1000. This is another win for Scorpion in their long-running lineage of off-road success. MSRP: $199.95 ScorpionUSA.com

PROS	CONS
▲ A preference of Dakar and Baja 1000 riders. Need I say more?	▼ Ventilation is on-par, but not but not better that comparable lids.
▲ Costs less, weighs less, and outperforms its competition.

Where to Buy:

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