MT Atom SV Flip Front Motorcycle Helmet

Safety

Made from the latest polymer technology, the MT Atom SV is ultra-durable with multiple density EPS liner for added impact resistance. The micrometric ratchet fastener is ultra-secure and quick, and easy to use, even with gloves on. The visor is wide for greater peripheral vision - the more you can see, the safer you will be. Anti-scratch treatment prevents your view from being obscured, and the MAxvision visor is Pinlock compatible (insert not included) to prevent fogging. A brand new four-way neck curtain system prevents fogging, along with a full ventilation system for optimal airflow. The MT Atom SV also offers ECE.2205 approval - compulsory for road use - meaning it has passed all tests required.

Styling

The MT Atom SV is available in a wide range of colours and designs . Despite flip-front helmets normally designed for touring, the MT Atom SV features a decidedly sporty design with an aerodynamic shell. Each design, aside from the plain colourways, is stylish, modern, and suitable for sports riding and touring. The mix of colour combinations gives you some unique colour options to stand out from the crowd. The lever for the internal sun visor and the vents are incorporated into each colourway's aesthetic and are used as part of the design rather than detracting from it.

Comfort

The lining – which has the chin cushions and neck skirt as one piece – is easy to remove and refit for cleaning to keep you fresh and soft and plush. MT's brand new four-way neck curtain system and lower liner flaps keep noise to an absolute minimum for higher rider comfort. Two shell sizes provide added aerodynamics and prevent buffering and pressure on the neck. The ventilation system comprises two closeable vents on the top and a wide closeable one on the chin, along with a pair (that can also be shut) of exhaust vents on the back. They’re easy to operate, even with thick gloves on, and the top vents give a good flow of air, and all can be personalised to your requirements.

Practicality

The flip mechanism is ultra-smooth to use, even with gloves on and is fully lockable. It features a drop-down sun visor (hence the SV) that opens and closes easily – rotate the button on the lower-left edge, then press the button to retract. It’s a handy option to prevent sun glare. The comfort lining – which has the chin cushions and neck skirt as one piece – is easy to remove and refit for cleaning. The Atom SV comes complete with an excellent Pinlock Max Vision anti-fog visor (Pinlock insert not included). The full ventilation system is easy to operate and can be personalised easily, and can be used easily whilst wearing gloves. Levers on either side of the visor release it for cleaning. The visor seals well, not letting any water in. The micrometric ratchet fastener is quick and easy to use even with gloves on and gives an ultra-secure fit - this can be adjusted to your requirements very easily.

Negatives

The first negative to the MT Atom SV is that it does not offer P and J homologation, which means it cannot be worn open on the road. This will most likely not affect most riders, but some tourers like to wear a helmet with the flip mechanism open. Another negative is the weight. The Atom SV is by no way a heavy helmet, at 1731g, this is at the heavier end of the budget flip-front weight, though a (much more expensive) Shoei Neotec for instance weighs 1679g, so the weight difference is not excessive, but this isn't the lightest helmet on the market. It also does not come with a Pinlock insert, but this can be bought separately. Also, despite the neck system, we have had a few reports of noise at very high speeds, but these are not speeds that anyone on UK roads should be experienced in so shouldn't be a problem officer!

Verdict

The MT Atom SV is not the best flip-front helmet on the market, but then it doesn't share the same price tag as Shoei and Arai helmets. MT isn't a huge brand, yet, so the Atom SV is a little different on the road - the designs and colours will make you stand out from the crowd.

Until next time, stay safe,

Alex