X-Lite X-1004 Modular Helmet.
Italy?s Nolangroup, maker of Nolan helmets, has a premium helmet line called X-Lite that made its U.S. debut in early 2017 with two helmets: the lightweight X-802RR carbon fiber full-face, and the one you see here, the X-1004 modular.
My first experience wearing the X-1004 was during the two-day press launch for the BMW K 1600 B in North Carolina, followed by a 5-day cross-country ride back to California. Those were long days in late August, with up to 14 hours per day in the saddle, highs up to 115 degrees, and everything from cut-it-with-a-knife humidity to bone-dry desert heat, high winds, cold mornings and light rain. During a week like that, a helmet?s shortcomings will become painfully obvious.
I needn?t have worried. Slipping on the X-1004, its Touring Performance Unitherm2 comfort liner?soft, moisture-wicking padding with recessed mesh panels that helps maximize interior airflow and maintain a consistent internal temperature?cradled my head like a mother holding a newborn. The lining is removable and washable, as is the thickly padded neck roll, which can be unzipped separately. A bright red, dual-action latch on the front makes it easy to flip the chinbar up, and it closes again effortlessly, clicking audibly when it locks. A large eyeport provides an unobstructed view in all directions, a drop-down VPS sunshield with UV400 protection provides on-demand tinting, the face shield is a cinch to remove without tools and channels in the com...