Klim release new state of the art X1 Alpha adventure helmet stuffed full of clever design features
US-based premium adventure bike kit manufacturer, Klim have announced their latest adventure helmet, the all-new X1 Alpha. The new lid is said to be an all singing, all dancing model with loads of experimental research behind it – they say it took five years of design and development to make it.
The main focus points for the X1 revolve around reducing factors that contribute to fatigue alongside increasing levels of safety and protection. Klim say they are tackling issues like eye strain, heat fatigue and physical drain from weight and poor aerodynamics.
The eye strain is taken care of with a new and improved visor system that claims Class 1 optical clarity and reduced distortion from the curved nature of the visor.
The UV400 sun protection is designed to block harmful rays, while the infra-red heat shielding that’s built into the visor is claimed to block out heat. The included photo-chromatic visor gets darker when you need it to, allowing riders to focus without fiddling with their sun visor mechanism.
Ventilation in the new X1 Alpha has also had plenty of attention; there is a direct air diffuser that projects air across the visor to help prevent misting up and there are adjustable air intakes at the chin and brow, with exhaust ports to the rear. On top of this, Klim have designed a clever-looking system whereby air is drawn between the EPS layer and the shell, creating an insulating layer which they claim keeps your head cooler in the sun.
The carbon fibre shell is made using moulding techniques that are claimed to eliminate excess resin build up, allowing for the ultimate weight to strength balance.
Within their wind-tunnel facility, Klim have developed the X1 using wind speeds of 75mph, to mimic real world riding speeds. Using this research, the peak has been designed with specific cut outs to reduce drag and overall wind noise for the rider.
The removable peak system requires no tools and has three positions that are adjusted using a simple button on the top of the helmet. Switching to goggles should be simple with a tool-free visor removal system, too.
Inside you get an antibacterial, moisture wicking fabric lining, which works to keep the helmet cool and dry in challenging riding conditions and the elasticated chin skirt is designed to make putting the helmet on or taking it off easier.
Klim say that all of these details work together to make long days of riding easier, keeping riders sharper and more alert, which in turn should result in a reduced risk of an accident.
The Klim X1 Alpha helmet is expected to hit shelves in early March with a limited number available initially and a price tag of £880.
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