Urge Archi Enduro R.R. full face helmet launched
The newest helmet from Urge was built with input from some of the world’s fastest riders (click to enlarge).
Much ink (or should we say pixels) has been expended in recent years explaining the difference between downhill and enduro and how that has lead to dramatic changes to frame, component, and accessory design.
On the helmet front, we’re seeing several different approaches to the changing needs of riders. Brands such Bell and Lazer have introduced convertible helmets, while the likes of Met and Urge have championed more breathable full face style helmets. These hybrid designs mimic the traditional shape of a full face, but feature minimalist chin bars to help improve ventilation and breathability. The Urge version has been the go to for Fabien Barel, Florian Nicholai, and Joe Barnes.
Users on our forums complained that the chin bar on the previous design was not as effective as they would have hoped during a crash. It appears that complaint has been resolved with the new R.R. model (click to enlarge).
The new Urge Archi Enduro R.R. (as in ready to race) takes that design a step further. While the previous helmet passed the more common CPSC and EN 1078 standards, the newest helmet also meets the ASTM F1952 and AS/NZS 2063 standard. For those wondering what all the alpha numeric gobbledygook mean, essentially the chin guard isn’t just there for looks. It passes the same rigorous testing standards as helmets rated for downhill abuse. MSRP is $299, including a helmet bag.
With its unique styling, the new Archi Enduro R.R. doesn’t look like anything else on the market (click to enlarge).
The new helmet has an outer shell that utilizes a mixture of glass and natural linen fiber, mixed with a thermosetting resin. Urge claims this material is meticulously laid out in order to obtain a multi-axial fiber that can outperform ABS and carbon fiber.
The rear of the R.R. helmet has a small cut-out to bolster the interface between the helmet and backpacks worn by racers on long days. The question is how this will affect performance when paired with a style neck brace (click to enlarge).
Urge claims the helmet weighs 990 grams and it features 10 vents, plus shaped cheek pads and front vents designed to channel airflow around the ears. The rear of the helmet is also cut higher to improve the interface with backpacks.
The inner lining is made with a bamboo treated material that is claimed to be antibacterial, moisture wicking, and hypoallergenic, and it’s entirely detachable so it can be washed.
The plastic inserts along the eye-ports aren’t just for looks. They also help lock goggles in place (click to enlarge).
The wide front opening allows the new lid to play nice with even large goggles, and grip pads on either side of the eye port are designed to help hold goggle straps in place.
The helmet will be available in five sizes from XS-XL and comes in four different colors, including silver/orange/white, white/black, blue/red/white, and black/yellow. To learn more check out this video.
Click here to view the embedded video.
For more info, visit www.urgebike.com.
The post Urge Archi Enduro R.R. full face helmet launched appeared first on Mountain Bike Review.