The Breakdown
Pros
Cons
About AGV
I’m a little embarrassed to admit how unfamiliar I am with AGV so I did a little research on them. Hopefully, I’m not the only one who will benefit from a brief intro to this Italian manufacturer.
AGV or Amisano Gino Valenza has been around since 1946 making cutting-edge products for the world of motorcycling, primarily helmets centred around racing. In 2007 Dainese purchased AGV and has been adding their respected input as well. Add to that in 2008, 9 times MotoGP champion Valentino Rossi was named the honorary President of AGV because of how much he collaborates with their helmet designers and an impressive picture will form in your mind about what to expect from any AGV helmet.
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First Impressions
Unlike some other helmets I’ve reviewed, this isn’t the first time I’ve handled the Sportmodular Carbon.
I first noticed the Sportmodular while doing reconnaissance of the other pre-eminent modular helmet specimens a few months ago. The Shoei Neotec II and Schuberth C4 were why I walked into the store, but after spotting the AGV nearby and picking it up for closer inspection I immediately got “butterflies” in my stomach and a strong feeling neither Shoei or Schuberth would be getting my hard earned money with this AGV option available.
I’ve been reaching out to AGV directly ever since, trying to get one to review because I was so impressed. AGV hasn’t responded to my requests to this point.
Revzilla came to my rescue (and we love them for that!) providing a Sportmodular Carbon Gloss model for this hands-on review.
This intermediate oval helmet is form-fitting, compact, strong, incredibly lightweight, packed with well thought out features/design aspects that jump out at you as you handle it. It is undeniably soooo comfortable to wear with no pinch points on my round oval head, despite the fact it’s classed as an intermediate oval shape.
Carbon Fiber Goodness
This is the first carbon fiber helmet I’ve ever worn, let alone carbon fiber modular helmet. There are other 3K carbon fiber modular helmets on the market but none where the entire outer shell is carbon fiber, including the chin bar.
Super Lightweight
This makes it the lightest modular on the market weighing in at a claimed 2.85 lbs, and when compared to fiberglass, carbon fiber is just as strong but also stiffer. In cases where a small degree of flexibility is desirable (like on a helmet) carbon fiber is the ideal choice even over fiberglass.
I measured the helmet’s weight on my own scale and found it was 3 lbs even, but my scale may not be bang on.
Fit and Finish
One Badass Looking Brainbucket
The black and grey, checkered-design of the carbon fiber encapsulated in the gloss coating are awesome to behold. It creates an illusion of motion even when stationary. I dig that and love the “space-age” technical appearance.
One odd thing about the woven pattern of fibers on this particular helmet is what appears to be a flaw on the right side. A sort of wave or wrinkle is very noticeable running 5 inches long. I wasn’t able to capture it in a photo clearly enough to share, unfortunately. I’m not sure whether this would affect the structural integrity or not but it’s noticeable.
The AGV tri-color logos are tastefully found front and rear on the helmet. They are sized appropriately and the red, white and green colors pop nicely against the dark carbon fiber.
The inner padding follows suit using two shades of grey with some black. I like the small touch of an Italian flag found embroidered on the chinstrap.
Italian styling is evident in this helmet without being too flashy or overbearing. Nice job AGV.
Fitment
Once installed on my head this helmet is almost forgotten due to it being so light and comfortable. I don’t even bother taking it off while taking breaks during rides. It’s that good for me.
It doesn’t fit like other modular helmets I’ve worn. The rear portion sits further back on my face with the chin bar locked open instead of having sections on each side reach forward along my jawline closer to the corners of my mouth.
That makes it a bit awkward to put on with the chin bar locked open for me because there’s nothing to grab hold of and pry apart with my fingers, but I’m getting used to setting it on the top of my head canted forward and then pivoting that back of it down into position.
I can’t put this helmet on or take it off without the chin bar locked open unlike any other modulars I’ve worn. The opening is just too small in diameter to do it. It’s made this way purposely to fit close and tight around the jawline and base of the skull/neck. If you’re claustrophobic that might irritate you, but I love it.
Chinstrap Issues
I think the main reason I find it tricky to get on is that usually I hold and pull apart the chinstrap on each side while donning any helmet and the straps on the Sportmodular are set back about an inch further than on most other helmets. This throws off the balance when I lift it up by the straps causing it to flop around in my grip.
Having the strap back so far might lead to fitment issues with some face shapes too. My friend tried it on and found that the strap choked him a bit due to the positioning.
Definitely try this one on before buying to gauge whether something specific to your features like a larger Adam’s apple, pronounced jawline or thicker chin/neck might make the AGV uncomfortable for you. That goes without saying for any helmet, but with an extremely close fitting one like this one, it’s especially true.
Tapered Shell Design
The lower part of the shell tapers inward noticeably. This is intentional with the goal of preventing collarbone injuries in the event of a crash. Something learned in the world of racing that was incorporated into this helmet design.
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Integrated Sun Lens
How close fitting you may be wondering? Really close.
When I fully lower the integrated sun lens it touches the tip of my nose! It’s kind of a double-edged sword because having it come down so far means my entire field of view is shaded by the lens (excellent!), but whenever I ride over a bump the lens nibbles lightly on my nose. Not enough to cause pain or leave a mark, but it tickles a bit.
It’s not AGV’s fault because I admit freely to having a rather tall sniffer on me that is crooked thanks to me shooting my mouth off while playing hockey over the years and the ensuing fisticuffs.
The sliding switch that retracts or extends the sun lens is pretty easy to find and operate with my gloved left hand but the switch drags noticeably at the end of travel to hold the lens in position.
The tint on the lens is ideal for bright sunlight and distortion free as expected in a premium quality helmet. I like it a lot and compared to other integrated lenses I’ve looked through this is the clearest.
Visor
The visor is equally pleasant to look through and crystal clear even with the Pinlock installed. I had no fogging issues even when riding in the rain with the helmet, but found if I deliberately exhale in an exaggerated way out of my mouth I can momentarily fog up the visor due to how close it sits to my face. It clears immediately after I stop exhaling.
Annoying Locking Mechanism
The visor has a U-shaped tab hanging down in the middle that locks it to the chin bar unnecessarily. With the visor closed completely flush or just above flush the lock activates.
Why???
Luckily there’s only one small screw holding the U-shaped tab to the visor that could be removed to eliminate the locking feature and the need to push a release button to raise the visor each time. The button is hard to push with gloved fingers and the visor stayed put slightly open when it wasn’t locked. The lock is totally unnecessary.
Some other reviewers haven’t cared for the tab used to raise the visor being dead center and prefer a part to push on located on either side instead. I would agree that’s a better way to go, but I have no issue living with the tab in the middle, myself.
Quick Release Visor
This visor comes off and goes on like nothing thanks to the small release levers on the pivoting points for the visor.
It’s very intuitive to see how tugging down on the bottom lever releases the visor from the helmet. Putting it back on is just the same method in reverse. I love it.
I like how compact the whole mechanism is compared to other helmets too. Bravo!
Comfort Liner
The liner padding is the nice stuff with the washable, antimicrobial, fast-drying, moisture-wicking standard expected in any high-end helmet. There’s only one size available with the helmet, but it does come with two different sized chin curtains to choose from in making the helmet fit you properly. The chin curtain is effective at keeping wind and noise out of your facial “living room”.
The bottom of the padding features two colors of microsuede, but on the inside part that changes to a smooth, silky section around where my ears need to slide and not catch while the helmet goes on. It works most of the time when I put the helmet on to avoid having my ears fold up.
Plastic snaps hold the padding in place well enough and removal/installation is straightforward. One thing different on this helmet is that the padding is one piece. You can’t remove the left side without bringing the right along for the ride. That may irritate some people, but not me.
BlueTooth Speaker Pockets
There are pockets built into the sides of the helmet on the inside by the straps, specially made to house speakers for BlueTooth systems. They work very well and even have felt glued inside to make easy installation of the speakers that come with a SENA 30K system for example.
It is unfortunate AGV hasn’t partnered with SENA or Cardo to incorporate one of their systems into this lid seamlessly like on a Shoei Neotec II for example.
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Ritmo and Shalimar Crown Lining
The liner located in the crown area is reversible. One side is a fuzzy microsuede to help keep you warm in colder weather and called Shalimar. The opposite side is the smooth Ritmo that stays cooler for hot weather riding.
Don’t worry about remembering what Ritmo and Shalimar mean since there’s a labeled tag on each side of the liner to remind you what side is for hot weather and vice versa.
I didn’t notice a huge difference after flipping the crown liner myself. I found the helmet warm in cool weather and cool in warm weather regardless of which way the liner was installed. Other reviewers who are bald have reported noticing a considerable difference, however, from what I’ve read about it online.
Wind and Road Noise
Ahh, here’s the big question on everyone’s mind, especially about any modular helmet.
This helmet is basically the modular version of the AGV Pista GP R race track helmet of proven protective and performance quality. Meaning optimized aerodynamic grooves, lines shapes and even an adjustable spoiler for calming turbulence at speeds above 80 mph. In my testing, I didn’t notice any difference while fiddling with the spoiler, to be honest.
As Quiet As Any Other Modular…For Me
The padding situated around my ears seal tightly and wearing this helmet makes me feel like I’m wearing earmuff style hearing protection. I’m sure I was speaking too loudly to everyone around me while wearing the helmet as a result. Kind of like an elderly person having a hearing aid issue.
That feature makes it seem quieter to me than it actually is for most other people at highway speed. For most of those who have my round head shape it’s basically as quiet as other premier modular helmets including the Schuberth C4. I would say it’s quieter for myself than the Neotec II as well, BUT again that’s not the case for most people when they wear it.
This exact fitting helmet also feels more comfortable than both the C4 and Neotec 2 which have tight spots and pressure points pressing on my head while the AGV doesn’t. Again, this comes back to headshape which can’t be undersold.
Ventilation
All I can say is WOW when it comes to airflow in this helmet. AGV prioritizes rider comfort and it shows.
Chinbar Vent
When I open the vent on the chin bar the air hits just below my bottom lip and in the fully open position sends in so much air I can develop a cold spot if the mercury is low. It has two positions to choose from.
There’s no buffer other than a large honeycomb grill made black of plastic in this vent which explains the massive amount of air coming through, but the downside is that when it rains water comes flying through it equally well unlike other helmets I’ve worn.
Bug guts from exploding insect thoraxes and abdomens can also enter through it. It could really use a layer of foam to cut this down, but I don’t mind just closing it when it rains to cope.
Other Vents
The upper vent flows nearly as much air and no water/bug gore along the top of my head perfectly.
The spoiler on the rear has two open positions to modulate exiting hot air from around my head and as I mentioned is intended to help smooth out turbulence. It worked well as an exhaust for me.
The Stubborn Chinbar
The all carbon fiber chin bar weighs virtually nothing, so there’s little force gained through momentum when you lower it using a standard hand motion. I find being gentle with it often ends in it not actually latching closed and I have to either slap the chin bar inward to lock it or open it up again and slam it shut.
It’s a bit disappointing and perplexing to me having to strongarm such a premium piece of headgear, but not the end of the world.
Final Verdict
I really love the strength, protection, fit, ventilation and weightless qualities of this AGV helmet.
If those are your top wants in a modular helmet then I predict you’ll be very happy buying and owning it, with an asterisk being whether the chinstrap and internal shape works for you individually.
Now that I’ve ridden about 400 miles in this helmet I’m convinced I was right about it being the modular helmet I would buy if I was looking to buy one today. It works for me on every level although I would like AGV to make a few tweaks for next year.
Some Minor Changes For Next Year
Improve the padding on the chinstrap, move it further forward, add a ratcheting closure and an integrated BlueTooth system to the shell. Maybe they can do something to make the latch grab easier on the chin bar when lowering it as well?
Those are small improvements on an otherwise nearly perfect helmet in my books. The danger in using the word “perfect” is that everyone’s head is unique like their fingerprint pattern. What’s perfect for me might be all wrong for you.
One thing I’m sure of is the Sportmodular is most definitely worth your time to test drive when helmet shopping.
Pros
- Lightest modular available at a claimed 1295 grams or 2.85 lbs
- 3 shell sizes available keeps this helmet compact and close fitting around the head
- Same aerodynamic design as the racing Pista GP R helmet
- Quiet on the road, ultra comfortable padding, and material
- Cool or warm to wear thanks to Ritmo or Shalimar reversible crown liner
- Terrific ventilation and equipped with a rear spoiler to deal with turbulence
- Carbon fiber makes it stronger and lighter than usual
- Visor comes on or goes off with little effort
- Pinlock anti-fog lens included with the helmet
- Titanium D-rings
- DOT and ECE 22.05 compliant
Cons
- Expensive $749
- Rain comes through the front vent when open
- Chin strap is set far back and padding moves off it leading to some chafing at times
- Chin bar doesn’t easily close
- The sun lens touches my nose when fully lowered
Specs
- Manufacturer: AGV Dainese
- Price (When Tested): $749.95
- Made In: China
- Alternative models & colors: Matte, Tri-Colore
- Sizes: XS-SM, MD-LG, XL-3XL
- Review Date: July 21, 2018
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AGV Sportmodular Carbon Helmet Image Gallery
The visor locking system has the purpose of keeping the visor locked in case of a crash preventing any foreign objects or debris to hurt your face.
And I agree about the chinstrap, it needs to be relocated.
Fantastic helmet
Hi Jorge!
Ok I guess I can see that being a decent idea for the visor lock if it actually works.
Most any crash I’ve seen the visor has come right off the helmet after impact with the ground.
Do you have any firsthand experience with a visor lock working during a crash?
Thank you I agree. I’m having issues getting the helmet on. I’m going to try without my ridding jacket chin strap back a bit and find it difficult to secure.. I’m also having issues with fogging for the first 10 minutes of ridding.. why? Pinlock is installed.. sun visor as well
I do have one question..I’m considering buying a 30k SENA. Does it attach to the helmet?
Please
Steve
Hi Steve!
I haven’t had any fogging issues with mine. I suspect the silicone seal on yours may be flattened out in a section and so it’s not sealing well when the visor is cold. Have a close look and see what condition its’ in. You may be able to remove the Pinlock and massage the seal back into a taller shape so it’ll seal all the way around on the visor. Be gentle as it’s easy to scratch the inside of the Pinlock lens.
Yes I have a 30K installed on my AGV using the clamp. It went in quite nicely and the speaker pockets work really well in keeping the speakers close to my ears. The only helmet that does it better is my Arai DTX.
Hello again Jim
Yes you were correct seal was damaged.. so I’m replacing should have it today. Odd however that my internal visor stays foggy for quite sometime…
Thank you
That’s happened to me as well. I just raise the sun lens slightly and allow some of the airflow from the chinbar vent to unfog it. Typically I don’t have any fogging issues with the helmet sun lens/visor though. Only in cooler weather occasionally.
JIM HI
So having a big issue .. I replaced my PINLOCK once already.
I went out for a ride Sunday it was about 39 degrees
HUGE FOGGING ISUUE on both the outer visor and internal.
What’s happening here? Any thoughts?
Thanks Steve
I did also add a SENA 30K I was able to attach with the clamp if anyone is interested..
I am planning to add a WHIM system from harley.. I think it will give me all access to the infotainment system.. what’s your thoughts..
Hi Steve,
It sounds like a coating issue on the visor lenses. I would try applying shaving cream to the inside of both then washing it off. This is a natural anti fogging agent and works in my experience. It also leaves a pleasant smell on the visors.
Alternately Head and Shoulders shampoo also works from what I’m told (though I haven’t tried it myself). There are also anti fogging sprays available on the market to try if that doesn’t work.
It could be you naturally sweat more than the average person and that’s causing the fogging. Not much you can do about that, but perhaps there is something wrong with the helmet and you could take it back to the dealer and exchange on warranty?
All avenues worth exploring. Let me know if you figure it out.
Only helmet that I have to sell because of fit. I liked the weight and the close fit but wow did it create a lot of upper jaw pain on both sides. I’m an intermediate oval and had the large which is the norm for me. Maybe an XL in this AGV would have worked better. I’ve worn a lot of tight fitting racing helmets including a couple from AGV, but the SportModular was not the ticket for me. I’m a little surprised at the over the top positive rating vs other top of the line options. It’s a good helmet but that much better than the Shoe or Schuberth?
Hi David!
I’m sorry to hear the helmet didn’t match up well with your head shape. It’s a peculiar thing I’ve noticed how some helmets just never work for some people.
For example, the Schubert C4 and C4 Pro hurt my head in the way the AGV hurts yours. It’s bizarre because I’ve heard so many people rave about Schuberth quality and it, but I just can’t et one to work for me even though I love the finish and design quality. I’m still searching for a Schuberth for me.
Similarly the Shoei Neotec 2 does nothing for me. It’s more comfortable than the C4 to C4 Pro without a doubt on my head, but none of them fit like the AGV does on my head. The airflow is unmatched in either the Shoei or Schuberth as I mentioned in the review.
I’m very aware the fit is particular and how some people such as yourself won’t enjoy it or fit it well at all, but that can be said for practically any helmet on the market on certain heads. I rated the helmet as my testing worked out and would take it over any other modular I’ve worn other than the Nolan N100-5 which is actually more comfortable, but doesn’t have the ultra lightweight quality of the AGV.
Thanks for the feedback though.
Hi, Jim.
First of all, thanks for your review. And also for your Tuktoyaktuk article series.
About the chinstrap, I guess it might be there because of security reasons. Schuberth has the AROS (Anti Roll Off System) to avoid the helmet from unconvering your head (reduce the possibilities to roll off), and that allows the chinstrap to be positioned forward. In this case, having into account that the helmet doesn’t have cheeks in the main shell, I can imagine it is a good place to put it in order to have similar effects to the AROS system without having it. Or maybe almost without cheeks on the main helmet, they don’t have a better place where to put it 🙂
About the visor lock, it seems again brand experience on security because it’s also available in the pista GP-R, but also available in modern helmets like hjc rpha 90 or a recent wBW review, the scorpion exo r420.
In my opinion, it really seems a very good helmet and a very light one, in case it fits you right.
Best regards.
Carlos thank you for the kind words I appreciate it.
I also appreciate that readers like yourself and Jorge who commented above are very smart and I can learn a lot from all of you.
Thank you for the insight. I think you’re bang on.
Fair assessment of the AGV. I tried it, the Neotec 2 and the Schuberth C4 (cf. my comments on the recent Neotec 2 review) at Revzilla. If you want the lightest modular, the AGV is it. What you noted as “cons” kept me away from it, too. The quality just wasn’t there. I cannot image a Shoei or Schubert having flaws in/on the outer shell. I bought the C4. First, I prefer a ratcheting chin strap (you’ll notice the closeness on the AGV right away). Between the Neotec 2 and C4, it was small, subtle things that gave the nod to the C4: the way the chin bar opened and shut, the glide of the drop down visor. The shield and it’s almost micro settings, most of all.
It’s such a toss up between these three helmets. They’re all great in their own way, but overall I think you’re right about the C4 being the highest quality or finest quality. It’s also the most expensive and so really it should be IMO.
Unfortunately I can’t wear it for more than an hour because it hurts my head. I also don’t care for the looks of it as much as the other two, but that’s not really important compared to other things.
I think we rated all three within 0.1 of each other and what it comes down to is comfort and the little things as you pointed out, but no one will regret buying the AGV, C4 or Neotec II if they feel good on your head.
I had a flagship agv helmet. first and last time
it was a limited edition flagship gp-tech. only 1000 made.
the overly came off in the first week of rain. the interior gets fuzzies very easily and the visor is so thin and flexes and has rainbow stripes across it that pretty much ruins you using it. and even till today still has them on the newer models.
the only race helmet ive ever seen with no locking visor. the visor would slam down after 30mph. I went back to my arai (which has its own QC issues imo)
been riding 23 years now. imo, the more expenisve helmets dont give bang for the buck anymore.
heres my videos
overlay:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wtjFavNAgI4
visor:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=11hLA48KdiU
interior fabric:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kfesXvffjJ8
this was quite a few years back. only had a 3mp phone
never will I buy an agv helmet. I never had fuzzies with any arai, scorpion or caberg helmet ive owned.
Wow thanks for sharing Roberts. That’s totally unacceptable quality issues. Did you try contacting AGV about it?
Yes contacted agv usa. Shipped it from. The middle east. They found a replacement from Italy. Had the visor rainbow stripes and flexing because it was thin. Around 2.1mm thick if i remember correctly. I sold the agv at a huge loss. Beautiful graphics. Horrible quality. I now stick to scorpion (thanks to your reviews) or midrange arai helmets. I no longer buy caberg though.
You can’t go wrong with Scorpion or Arai. How incredibly disappointing. I’ll have to see how this AGV does long term and update you all.
Thanks for the review.
I’m just wondering how the AGV liner held up after long-term wear?
Hi Cindy!
Well I haven’t worn it a whole lot since the review unfortunately. Maybe another couple of hundred miles worth of use since, so I can’t really say a whole lot about the liner other than that it’s still in the same shape as before.
I did manage to put a small chip in the clear coating of the outer shell at some point, but it hasn’t cracked or gotten worse. It seems superficial at best. It’s still my second favourite helmet to wear right behind my Arai DT-X and only slightly ahead of my Nolan N100-5.
Loved your review, it parallels many others I have read. The only thing I disagree with is your wish for an integrated BT headset. I have the Uclear on all my helmets and it works fine with all of them. I own 9 helmets for different days and different bikes. A dedicated or proprietary BT system is the first thing that kills a helmet for my consideration. Many of us out here have invested good money on our systems and being expected to purchase multiple different systems for different helmets is not feasible nor a fiscally good move.
This helmet is in the running for me for long distance riding due to the weight and being able to lift the chin bar for a drink when fueling up or at a stop light is a huge deal. When i am on a bike for 10-12 hours or longer every ounce seems to count!
Hi Todd!
Thanks for the feedback.
It’s funny you should mention the integral Bluetooth remark as I just finished installing my Sena 30K in the AGV and just love how it fits in there. The padding around the ears makes it so much easier to hear the music/phone calls, etc. I’m really loving it and have to agree with your assessment about good money spent on systems that need to be able to transfer to new brainbuckets. I’m not sure what I was thinking when I wrote that looking back now.
Even more so after I just finished testing the Shoei Neotec II the last few days with the integrated SRL system which is a Sena 20S platform. It’s night and day different and not for the better unfortunately.
I formally take it back. You’re absolutely correct about that.
If your head fits this helmet and the chinstrap doesn’t bother you it’s surely going to be your new favorite helmet like it is mine. It’s a keeper! I don’t want anything else on my head.
We’re doing a 3 helmet shootout this weekend comparing the Shoei Neotec II, AGV SC and Schuberth C4 so I’ve been spending time with each of them. I keep trying to like the Shoei and C4, but they don’t compare to the AGV’s pure comfort and lightness. For me it’s a no brainer, but the other testers aren’t won over yet.
Thanks for reading and helping keep us honest.
I’ve has a Multitek for 7 years and been happy with it. That said this year I’m looking for a replacement and the Neotec 2, and AGV are on the list. I’m in Canada’s prairies and there is not an AGV available to try on anywhere near here and I won’t buy sight unseen, not trying it on etc which is too bad as it really is an interesting helmet. I’d like to see just how lighter it is by comparison to the Neotek 2 which my dealer has in stock…but I do notice the weight. I’d like to try the C4 and my local BMW dealer may have one.
Comment re the Uclear comment by Todd…..Glad the Uclear works for you and you’re happy with it. I bought one (2 headset version) and I was never able to get it working properly….it sits on a shelf now and for me it was $400+ Cdn wasted.
Hi Dave! Are you in Manitoba? Too bad you aren’t near calgary as I have all three helmets you could try on to compare.
The AGV is ridiculously lighter than the C4 and Neotec II. A full lb basically. It’s very noticeable.
Can you get your hands on a Nolan N100-5? That helmet fits very much like the AGV Sportmodular. My review for the Nolan will be out soon as well. It’s also excellent! I think the Neotec II probably is the helmet that will fit most people best because there are so many different thicknesses of cheek padding to be had for it. I like it but don’t love it as much as the AGV or Nolan. The Schuberth is a good one too though. It’s the most refined of them and the quietest but I find it digs into the top of my head sometimes when I wear it. I also don’t find there’s enough ventilation in the C4 or Neotec II for my liking but the Nolan and AGV flow lots especially out of the chinbar area.
Hi Jim,
I’m in Winnipeg. Unfortunately I do not have any plans to be in Calgary in the near term. I would like to see them in person.
One thing I like about the Neotec is the plushness of the interior. I’ve heard the AGV is just as nice. I was at the local BMW store last night for their spring model presentation and had a look at the C4. Without trying it on it is just fine but I think the Neotec has a leg up on it. I was talking with another guy there who a couple weeks ago picked up a new C4 in Phoenix for $375US(approx$500Cdn) and in Winnipeg it’s $1100Cdn. Interesting disparity. Even at the cost I’d like to check out the AGV as should it fit I think I would really like the lighter weight. I’ll see if there is a Nolan Dealer in the area re sizing. A large fits me well in my Multitec. Great article here by the way. First one of yours I have come across. Looking forward to others. Thanks.
Yes the AGV liner is very plush and made with care. The Neotec II has the advantage of multiple cheekpad thicknesses to choose from to fine tune your fit. That’s the only thing about its interior better.
Yes the C4 was recently being sold at half price by Revzilla much to my surprise. More than one person has told me they like the old C3 Pro better but I haven’t worn one to be able to comment on it. For me I would take the Neotec II over the C4 as well but they both weigh about the same and are pretty well matched.
The C4 has smoother action on the sun visor lowering or going up but both it and the Neotec II disappointed me with how the visor won’t stay cracked open to allow air to flow in if you’re out in the wind with it.
The Nolan N100-5 does that very well and for hundreds less than either the Neotec II or C4 does everything just about as well. The action on the visor isn’t quite as smooth though.
I own this helmet. I got it for Christmas after my Schubert C3Pro was stolen.
I want to like this helmet. I really really do want to like it.
But the fact is for me with a decent jawline, this helmet is absolutely excruciating. The straps come out right beneath a pressure point along the bottom edges of my jaws. I wore it for a relatively short ride back when it was new and my jaws were tender for three days afterward.
I tried it again when I got home to California over a 4.5 hour ride and I was nearly vomiting because the pain was so great for so long. I had hoped to “break it in” and FORCE it to work for me. I can’t return it because it was a gift and it’s beyond the return window.
Constantly trying to force the bottom-rear further forward against the back of my head and trying to smush the helmet further down onto my head while riding is a massive distraction.
This helmet is an absolute non-option for me. I’m contacting agv to see if there is anything they can do to help considering the retailer won’t help.
Hi Stephen!
I’m so sorry to hear it’s not working for you. That chinstrap location is unusual for sure. I don’t think anything can be done unfortunately by the manufacturer because relocation would change safety specs I believe. Perhaps you could try and trade it for something that fits better locally even if just at a swap meet, etc?
C3Pro eh? I just wore the new C4Pro for the first time a couple of days ago and while I was impressed with the build quality and materials used I found it very uncomfortable when I had it on my head. Almost immediately it hurt which is new for me. Like you and the AGV I wanted to like the C4Pro but it just hurts.
I’ve a feeling you might like it though. Take a look if you get a chance.
Sorry I can’t be of more help.
I have had helmet/bike combos where the shield is pulled up by the slipstream when I look over my shoulder at speed. The shield lock completely prevents that.
Giving the helmet a lower score based on a removable feature is silly. Do you rate it low because it’s too warm, or do you just remove the chin wrap?
I’m loving mine.
Also, with a few miles under it, I don’t have to slam it so hard to close it.
Hi Skip!
I only lowered the score slightly because of the visor latch being a bit awkward to open thanks to the release button design. I haven’t tried removing the small loop yet to be honest and it’s not bothering me as much now as I first felt it did while testing it. I feel it’s a bit unnecessary in keeping the visor down because this is the first helmet of over a dozen I’ve reviewed to have it and none of them have been pulled open while riding even with them cracked open including this AGV.
This is still my most comfortable helmet to wear and I love it more every time I wear it, actually. I’ve got an Arai DTX coming next week that I think might challenge this AGV for my favourite but we shall see.
As for installing my 30K on it I used the metal clamp, not the sticky patch. It’s been about a year since I put it on there but I don’t recall it being too difficult. I’ll try and get a better photo to show what I did, but perhaps the 20S clamp is a bit different and that’s the issue?
I’m having trouble with the mounting for my Sena 20S on this helmet. Did you use the metal clamp or the stick on? Can you post pics of the installation?
Hi SL!
Sorry I missed this comment until now. Hopefully you got the 20S installed on your own by now.
I have a 30K installed on mine using the clamp. It wasn’t difficult at all compared to many others I’ve tackled. I’ve never installed a 20S, but I doubt it’s much different than the 30K.
The hardest part is getting the neckroll to seat back in the shell without having a bit of a pucker in it.
Hello JIM
No I haven’t tackled as of yet. Thank u
I’m holding off because I’m finding out the WHIM system from HD is quite expensive.
In my experience, & your results may vary, but locating the tab used to lift the visor in the center, instead of to one side, is the best place to put it on a visor with a pin-lock system.
With the lifting tab off to one side, every time the visor is raised from the fully closed position the seal is broken between the pin lock insert & main visor.
This causes fogging between the pin lock insert & main visor.
The problem is the lifting pressure applied at the off center tab causes a momentary twisting of the visor. The deformation caused by the twisting pops the seal.
Putting the lifting tab in the center prevents this twisting. It’s the smart place for it if you run a pin lock. They should all be in the center, so that the lifting forces are symmetrical – which prevents twisting of the visor.
Hi Eric,
That’s a valid point about the Pinlock although I’ve never noticed any of my visor seals leaking with side mounted tabs… yet.
My real gripe with the button on the SMC isn’t actually the placement, but the mechanism itself being difficult to push/press with gloved fingers. If it stuck out more or had a ridged edge or something that my fingers could catch on easier then it wouldn’t be irritating to me.
It’s not a deal breaker for me. Each time I wear this helmet I’m reminded of how much I like the overall package. AGV knows what they’re doing.
I’ve just got the AGV sport modular. Its a beut to look at and is lightweight to wear, good stability at speed. Having a short neck and fairly flat top head though is my problem as the helmet beds in. In winter gear, the AGV fouls on the high collar and that forces the helmet up so much that my head can easily rotate inside the helmet as though its too large. Im considering contacting AGV just to check that the shell size is not bigger like for a 60 rather than for 57 to 58…
Chin strap is OK but to keep it down on my flat head it can be cinched down to the point of painful… it just feels a bit too loose. My best flip helmet is the C3 basic. Sooo comfy, feels as light as the AGV on and much quieter. No issues with riding up on jacket collars but it does feel more restricted on viewing angles.
My Best fit full face is Shark Race R pro. Much “snugger” fit than the AGV, Light, good viewing, but no sun visor and flip for touring.
And I guess that’s the thing. The AGV is trying to penetrate in two areas, touring flip and sport/race, its not specifically developed in those areas, but has been created as a hybrid that will meet standards though not excel in either. I wish it fit me better and didnt feel so loose at the top, I wish it didnt ride up/rotate easily… because its bleddy beautiful! But in the end I feel it is an exercise in design – form over function with all the check boxes ticked on paper. My advise would be drool all you like, but make sure you try it on… for a long while…
AGB you’ve put a lot of thought into your analysis and I appreciate your insight. Thank you for that!
I’ve experienced a similar loose helmet effect when riding with a lot of shoulder padding on as well, but I was wearing a Shoei GT Air. I believe this could happen with most any helmet, not just the AGV SMC. You don’t find that to be the case while wearing the same winter gear? When it happened to me, it was less pronounced than you describe. I couldn’t turn my head within the helmet as you can with the AGV, so it didn’t bother me a whole lot. I suspect your head is shaped a bit differently than mine and that’s where this may be coming from for you. If there was a thicker padded crown liner available I think it would fit better, but to my knowledge AGV only offers one. That’s unfortunate since this is still my favourite modular helmet to wear, though the Nolan N100-5 is a very close second.
I think it’s fair to say there are other modular helmets on the market that will be a better fit for more common shapes of heads since I find this one to be shaped quite round while the majority of people have more oval shaped heads in North America and Europe from what I understand. I’m not sure though. In the end as I mentioned in the review (and you’ve echoed) it’s crucial with this AGV helmet to wear it first before buying because it does have some unusual fitment quirks compared to other helmets.
Hi Jim,
i am considering buying a new modular helmet. based on your trial, which one do you recommend: AGV sport modular os SHOEI neutec II
Thanks in advance.
Hi Ahmed!
I have good news for you: both choices are excellent helmets so you can’t choose wrong since I happily recommend both the AGV and the Shoei.
Now how would I recommend you choose between them is the better question for you to ask. The answer is that you absolutely must try both on for at least 30 minutes to know what you’re getting into.
The AGV in particular has several quirks to how it fits. The chinstrap will bother some people and the way you have to put it on is unusual compared to the Shoei. I freely admit the majority of riders will be more comfortable in the Neotec 2 because it’s built intermediate oval shaped, while the AGV is decidedly more round oval.
Both helmets do certain things better than the other and I mention several of them in the review.
For my head, I’ll take the AGV every time over the Neotec 2. It fits me better. It has much better ventilation and is 1 lb lighter that the Shoei. The Shoei is quieter though, and the latch works better. I like the integrated Sena feature and I know Shoei builds arguably the highest quality helmets on the market.
Like I said. You really can’t choose wrong so long as you try them on and like the way they fit.
Hello Jim,
Reading the review and the comments, thank you for your contributions.
I’ve had the Shoei Multitec, and currently, the Neotec [Gen I] and am contemplating a new modular as the five-year timeline on the Neotec has arrived. [I wonder if that is five full seasons of riding or five years chronologically. Perhaps this could get to an oil thread…]
Regardless, I believe to have a “Shoei head” and [if not mistaken] NOT and “Arai head.” So if your head doesn’t like the Neotec II then mine by this theory won’t like the AGV…
You mentioned Calgary in your comments, are you based in Calgary? Or have a helmet “source” in Calgary? I know I’d even like to “try before I buy” if I’m going Neotec II.
I love long-distance touring, and I’ve also been known to do an IBA now and then. A modular is the cat’s ___ with these trips. Imagine Laughlin in late July / August. 120F… Nice to open the jaw and breathe when going to get fuel…
Thanks for the review, lots to think about, and a few days to save pennies for the helmet…
Hiya Harry! Get comfortable before reading this response because there’s a lot to explain.
The lifetime of a helmet is based upon continuous use for 12 months/year over 5 years. So here in Canada (I’m in Airdrie, AB) or other northern climates where winter shuts us down for 7 months of the year, you can adjust accordingly ASSUMING you haven’t damaged the helmet shell or most especially the protective EPS foam liner inside it.
If you take a brand new helmet out of the box and then drop something sharp or pointed (like a motorcycle mirror) or heavy into the inside of the helmet, or you purposely modify or grab the helmet in such a way with your fingers that you put dents or scratches into the foam that lives behind the comfort liner you’ve just compromised to some degree the ability of the helmet to absorb energy in a crash. I see people do stuff all the time that likely has already rendered their helmet almost useless for protecting them and it should be replaced.
Dropping a helmet doesn’t necessarily ruin it if there aren’t any cracks or deep dents in the liner as a result, or unless there was something that had some mass to it sitting inside the helmet when it hit the ground. For example, if you had a large, glass bottle of water or some tools sitting inside the helmet and it fell off your bike seat onto rocks or concrete that might be an issue. Manufacturers advise 5 years as the average time it takes a rider to mess up a helmet through use, but I think mainly they’re factoring abuse.
Cam and I visited Snell in 2019 and learned a lot from those helmet experts about this. They have tested helmets that were only used 1 year and found they failed impact testing while others that were 12 years old passed! All due to negligent usage.
You’re correct about the AGV not being a good choice for yourself if you have more of a narrower-across-the-ears-shaped head. The AGV is quite round (wider) in shape and unfortunately, they don’t have varied thicknesses of interior padding to adjust the shape as Shoei and Arai do. I would try the AGV on anyway, but I don’t think it’s going to work.
With Shoei helmets, you can order different thicknesses of interior padding to swap into most of their newer helmets equipped with the 3D MaxDry comfort liner system. I turned one of their more narrow helmets (GT-Air 2) into a round oval using much thinner padding inside it. I also turned an Arai DT-X from an intermediate oval helmet into a round oval helmet using the specifically round-shaped liner from a Quantum X. You can just swap it between the two. The Arai helmets also have several 5mm layers of tear-away foam inside the cheek pads and crown liners to further fine-tune the fit to your cranium. So in reality you can achieve a narrower fit for your “Shoei” head in an Arai if you find one of their helmets that you fancy. The only issue is Arai doesn’t build modular helmets citing a lesser degree of safety. They’re not wrong about that, but as you say a modular helmet is so convenient.
I’m not a big fan of the Shoei Neotec 2, but not actually because of the fit, but the bulkiness of it, weight, and below-average airflow. I think Shoei could have done a lot better with the helmet, to be honest and there are better modulars on the market. I believe you can still try on helmets at places like BlackFoot Motosports, but I don’t know for sure. They probably use headsocks and disinfect them after the trial if they do allow it.
Ok, so what modular helmets would I recommend for your headshape? LS2, HJC, and specifically the Simpson Mod Bandit Nexx X-Vilitur. These are the helmets I find way too narrow for my dome, so they probably will work for you. We’ve reviewed several helmets from these brands on the site if you do a search, and typically we include the headshape in the review.
I would also mention Shark. They are often overlooked, but make terrific helmets. The EVO One Two looks awesome along with the Evo Jet. I’m working on getting both reviewed now.
Hello Jim,
Thank you very much for the reply. I’m over in BC, and we’re close to neighbors.
My head is large. Definitely more round than oval. I run a size 8 fitted baseball cap, and the Neotec had to have new padding bought to accommodate my melon. I think I should say, I am not a narrow head at all. Thankfully I have the shoulders and neck to support this planetary mass. [ha ha].
I was really just planning on a Neotec 2 as my Multitec and Neotec worked so well for me. I was surprised to hear that my Sena 30K from HD [yep] wouldn’t fit properly with the now proprietary unit.
So – that put me on the search for a new helmet – and this AGV SportModular being CF and light as a feather, got me thinking… But I was also considering the Simpson Mod Bandit as its pretty cool stylistically, well reviewed and also availible in CF. I should see if you have had a chance for the Ruroc that John Maxwell and Blockhead are quite enthralled with.
Anyhow – with your initial discussion on lifetime of helmets, I may not have reached end of life just yet. I ride quite a bit, but if she’s good for one more season, then maybe 2022 might have even more models to choose from. [?]
Ahhh, winter.
Thanks again
Harry
Harry! How are you neighbour?! You must not be in the lower mainland if winter is stopping you from riding, eh? It’s above zero here in Airdrie today and some brave souls are venturing out on two wheels. I’m contemplating it myself as I have a few helmets waiting to be reviewed.
Ok, so the Neotec 2 is not a helmet I’m a fan of because I don’t find it flows air well, and it feels really big due to a lack of shell sizing options (weird for Shoei to lack shell sizes!). Most people I talk to about it agree with this assessment, but you may find different. I have one friend who successfully installed a 30K in the Neotec 2 so don’t let that stop you if you love everything about it other than the integrated comms.
Re the AGV SMC fitting you. It’s tough to call because it’s such a quirky helmet when it comes to fitment besides the roundish headshape. The chinstrap bothers many people (other than me) and I admit it’s a fairly noisy helmet compared to most others out there. Definitely try before you buy this one and if you wear earplugs I’m positive the noise won’t bother you. It’s ridiculously lightweight and flows great air. That’s why I love it. If you ride a bike where you’re tucked in behind a large windshield this helmet is ideal since you don’t have wind noise to worry about at all.
I’m going to steer you clear of the Simpson Mod Bandit because that helmet is quite narrow. It genuinely hurts me after 40 minutes of riding to the point I must stop and remove it for a rest. This is really weird since the Outlaw Bandit is a round-shaped helmet that I find very comfortable. I don’t know what happened with the Mod Bandit.
Take a look at the Nolan N100-5. it’s super comfortable and lightweight. Very underrated IMO, but unfortunately it needs an integrated comms system from Nolan.
Another good one to check out is the Nexx X-Vilitur. It scores very well and will accommodate your 30K easily. Cam is a big fan of it, though I haven’t had the opportunity to try it myself.
The helmet brand I think gets overlooked the most is Shark. They’re excellent, affordable, stylish, and well built. They just released the new EVO GT Carbon and they’ve offered us one for review, but winter is ruining everything. For what you’re describing your needs are I would start your search with this one and see what you think. The Shark EVO One-Two is another great possibility. We haven’t reviewed it yet either but again I’m working on that. My neighbour just bought an EVO One2 and is in love with it after rejecting the Neotec 2.
I hope this helps!
very nice review. I learned a lot about my new helmet.
Btw the visor locking system is a must have in case you ride on circuits
Yes this modular helmet is allowed on circuits, which is not the case of many modular helmet (because of the chin strap mostly)
Hi zobo!
Ahhh I figured it must be something like racing behind the visor latch. That makes sense.
Thanks for letting me know. Cheers!