There's nothing not to love. Initially, it felt weird...because the other full face helmet I have is about 150 grams lighter. But it has a flimsy, detachable chin guard, so is not downhill rated. It also has a lot less padding than the Podium, so not as comfortable.
But about halfway through the ride, I barely noticed I had anything on my head. It does not weigh you down...even after several hours. So, yes...710 grams felt heavier compared to my other helmet, but it's feather light for a downhill rated with Mips.
If I could have given a 4.5 instead of a 4 or 5...I would have, due to these very minor nits:
- Visibility. The considerably more substantial chin guard comes at a small price...it does impair your vision looking down. But then, what full face doesn't? My other helmet's chin guard does as well...just not as much. But a very worthwhile trade for the extra protection. After a while, I barely noticed the difference.
- Adjustable head dial. Not having one was a deal breaker at first (I wanted at Demon, Initially...for that omission. But it fits so well, I dont miss it. I still wish it had one, but I recognize the value of safety by keeping the fit constant.
- Heating up. Yes, even with all the vents, I noticed it was warmer than my other full face. But I attribute that more to the more substantial construction than air flow. I noticed it riding up...so, yeah...it's going to get warm. But on the way down, it cools extremely well.
Overall, I 100% recommend this helmet, hence the moving up to 5 instead of down to 4 stars. Even the "negative" caveats have positive, ultimate outcomes. No helmet is perfect for every rider, but this one is close! The clincher is the price...you are getting quality of a helmet costing 2 or 3 times more. You can tell that on first examination, and that is re-emphasized while riding! For anyone who thinks you must pay more, this helmet will change that perception.
