LS2 Infinity Helmet Review: Open Face Excellence
Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the LS2 Infinity helmet, an open-face helmet that’s been making waves in the motorcycle community. If you're in the market for a new lid that offers a blend of style, comfort, and safety, you’ve come to the right place. This LS2 Infinity helmet review will cover everything you need to know, from its features and design to its performance on the road. So, buckle up (or rather, helmet up!) and let's get started!
First Impressions and Design
Right off the bat, the LS2 Infinity helmet makes a strong impression with its sleek and modern design. It's not just another generic open-face helmet; LS2 has clearly put some thought into the aesthetics. The helmet boasts a streamlined profile that looks great on various types of bikes, whether you're cruising on a vintage scooter or a modern streetfighter.
The outer shell is constructed from LS2's proprietary High-Performance Fiberglass Composite (HPFC), which strikes a nice balance between being lightweight and providing robust impact protection. This is crucial because, let’s face it, nobody wants to wear a heavy helmet that feels like a bowling ball on their head. The HPFC shell ensures that the helmet meets and exceeds safety standards without sacrificing comfort.
The finish on the LS2 Infinity is also noteworthy. It’s available in a range of colors and graphics, from solid matte black to eye-catching designs that will definitely turn heads. The paint quality is top-notch, with a smooth and even application that feels premium to the touch. Plus, the graphics are applied with precision, ensuring they won’t peel or fade easily over time. Whether you prefer a subtle, understated look or something bold and vibrant, there's an LS2 Infinity helmet to match your style.
One of the standout design features is the integrated sun shield. This is a game-changer for riders who frequently encounter changing light conditions. With a simple flick of a switch, you can deploy or retract the sun shield, providing instant relief from glare without having to pull over and fumble with sunglasses. The sun shield itself is made from high-quality polycarbonate that offers excellent UV protection, shielding your eyes from harmful rays. The mechanism is smooth and reliable, and the sun shield sits securely in place when deployed, without any annoying vibrations or rattling.
Another thoughtful design element is the wide eyeport. This provides an expansive field of vision, allowing you to see more of your surroundings and stay aware of potential hazards. The increased visibility enhances safety and makes for a more enjoyable riding experience, especially on long trips or in urban environments where you need to be constantly scanning for traffic. The eyeport is also compatible with most types of goggles, so you can easily customize your setup to suit your preferences.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort is king when it comes to motorcycle helmets, and the LS2 Infinity doesn't disappoint. The inner liner is made from a hypoallergenic and breathable fabric that feels soft and plush against your skin. This is particularly important on hot days when you're sweating buckets; the liner helps to wick away moisture and keep you cool and comfortable. The liner is also removable and washable, so you can easily keep it clean and fresh.
The cheek pads are another key element of the helmet's comfort. They're contoured to provide a snug and secure fit around your cheeks, without feeling too tight or restrictive. The cheek pads are also removable and replaceable, so you can customize the fit to your liking. LS2 offers cheek pads in different thicknesses, allowing you to fine-tune the helmet to your specific head shape.
The retention system on the LS2 Infinity is a micro-metric buckle, which is incredibly easy to use and provides a secure and adjustable fit. Unlike traditional D-ring closures, the micro-metric buckle can be adjusted with one hand, even while wearing gloves. This is a huge convenience, especially when you're in a hurry or need to make quick adjustments on the go. The buckle is made from high-quality materials that are built to last, ensuring that it won't break or come undone unexpectedly.
LS2 has also paid attention to ventilation with the Infinity helmet. While it’s an open-face design, they’ve incorporated subtle vents in the forehead area to promote airflow and prevent overheating. These vents work in conjunction with the breathable liner to keep your head cool and dry, even on the hottest days. The vents are strategically placed to maximize airflow without creating excessive wind noise.
Safety Features
Of course, the most important aspect of any motorcycle helmet is its safety performance. The LS2 Infinity is DOT certified, which means it has been tested and meets or exceeds the safety standards set by the Department of Transportation. This gives you peace of mind knowing that the helmet has been rigorously tested and is designed to protect your head in the event of a crash.
The HPFC shell provides excellent impact protection, dissipating energy and reducing the risk of head injuries. The shell is designed to crush and absorb energy upon impact, minimizing the force that is transmitted to your head. The multi-density EPS liner further enhances the helmet's impact absorption capabilities, providing an additional layer of protection.
The integrated sun shield not only enhances comfort but also improves safety by reducing glare and improving visibility. This is particularly important when riding in bright sunlight or when transitioning between light and shadow. The sun shield helps to keep your eyes relaxed and focused on the road, reducing the risk of accidents caused by impaired vision.
On-Road Performance
So, how does the LS2 Infinity perform on the road? In a word, admirably. The lightweight design makes it comfortable to wear for extended periods, without causing neck strain or fatigue. The helmet feels well-balanced and stable, even at high speeds.
The wide eyeport provides excellent visibility, allowing you to see clearly in all directions. This is especially beneficial in urban environments where you need to be constantly aware of your surroundings. The increased field of vision enhances safety and makes for a more confident riding experience.
The ventilation system does a decent job of keeping you cool, although it's not as effective as a full-face helmet. However, for an open-face helmet, the LS2 Infinity provides surprisingly good airflow, especially at higher speeds. The vents help to prevent overheating and keep you comfortable, even on hot days.
One minor drawback is that the LS2 Infinity can be a bit noisy at high speeds. The wind noise is more noticeable than with a full-face helmet, but this is to be expected with an open-face design. However, the noise is not excessive and can be mitigated with earplugs.
Pros and Cons
To sum it up, here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons of the LS2 Infinity helmet:
Pros:
- Stylish and modern design
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Integrated sun shield
- Wide eyeport for excellent visibility
- DOT certified for safety
- Removable and washable liner
- Micro-metric buckle for easy adjustment
Cons:
- Can be a bit noisy at high speeds
- Ventilation not as effective as a full-face helmet
Final Verdict
Overall, the LS2 Infinity helmet is an excellent choice for riders who prefer the freedom and visibility of an open-face helmet. It offers a winning combination of style, comfort, and safety, making it a great value for the money. Whether you're a casual rider or a seasoned veteran, the LS2 Infinity is definitely worth considering. So, if you're in the market for a new open-face helmet, give the LS2 Infinity a try – you won't be disappointed!
I hope this LS2 Infinity helmet review was helpful! Ride safe, guys!