- Royal Enfield Velocity helmet has a modern design with a matte black finish and clean lines
- The helmet's vents provide decent airflow but may be insufficient in hot weather or at high speeds
- Cheek pads offer a snug fit without pressure and are compatible with long beards
Royal Enfield has built its reputation crafting and perfecting motorcycles, blending retro charm with modern reliability. But when it comes to rider safety, the brand's Velocity helmet ditches the "retro" aesthetic entirely with a contemporary design. Sitting on the premium side of RE's helmet range with a price tag of Rs 6,990, it aims to step into the territory of KYT and SMK with a touring-focused design. But does it deliver the performance, safety, and value needed to earn its place alongside these rivals?
Design And Construction
The matte black finish on the helmet with subtle use of grey tones complements the design with clean lines sculpted on the top, aimed at directing the flow of air to reduce drag. Riding in on unpredictable gusty days in Delhi's peak summer, the helmet did a good job of cutting through the air without putting too much strain on the neck. However, the weight of the helmet gives a bit of discomfort after long rides and during sudden head movements.
The air intake on the top of the helmet is placed in the middle and curves seamlessly with the overall design. Flanking this larger vent are two smaller intakes on either side, which blend naturally with the helmet's contours without looking tacked on. Similarly, the chin vent is well-placed, complemented by small auxiliary openings on both sides that enhance airflow without disrupting the clean lines. Kudos to these design elements, it is easy to use these mechanisms even with gloves on, without using too excessive force.
Also Read: Royal Enfield Bullet 650 Review: Not Just A Motorcycle, It's A Statement
The sun visor mechanism is placed on the lower left side of the helmet and is easy to locate and operate. Even while riding, the adjustment is easy, and the mechanical element doesn't protrude.
Are Vents Good At Their Job?
As mentioned earlier, the vent on the chin and the ones on the top are easy to operate, and the airflow is decent for city speeds. However, to get a good flow, you'd need to push your bike to higher speeds, and that's when things start feeling a bit unsettling. On a hot summer day, the flow of air is not simply enough to keep you from getting drenched. Now and then, you might feel the need to pop up the visor, which is easy to do thanks to the raised edges on both sides of the helmet.
Comfort, Visibility
The cheek pads are soft and deliver a snug fit without being overly tight. Unlike many other helmets in this segment, they don't push your cheeks inward to press against your teeth. The interior material doesn't catch on your beard either, making ingress and egress smooth and hassle-free. Even if you have a long beard, it shouldn't be too much of a problem. These are also washable, which should help you in maintaining hygiene.
As for noise, wind noise does start bothering you at higher speeds, particularly on highways. However, for city riding, the sound isolation feels sufficient for this price segment, keeping distractions to a minimum.
Also Read: Royal Enfield Bullet 650: 5 Reasons Why It Can Charm The Retro Lover In You
The field of vision is generally unobstructed, though you can't rely too heavily on your peripheral vision, the sightlines are adequate but not class-leading. The upper edge of the helmet is visible from the inside, but it doesn't interfere with your view during normal riding. Even when scanning the horizon, it doesn't become a significant issue. All of this is complemented by a clear visor that ensures excellent visibility even on rainy days.
Safety
The helmet comes with ISI and ECE22.06 certifications. However, it does not have a double D-ring lock or emergency release system, which seems like a missed opportunity considering the price tag.
Verdict
In summation, the Royal Enfield Velocity presents a strong case for riders looking for a good-looking helmet with comfortable pads and a clear visor that takes care of their eyes during sunny days. The safety certifications add to the list of pros. However, if lightweight and double D-ring length are at the top of your priority list, you are suggested to explore more options.