Lurking in the shadows of the familiar names of Arai and Shoei, Nolan X-lite has quietly protected the heads of both the 250GP and MotoGP world champions. X-lite have been producing high quality and innovative helmets for some time, while working in the retail end of the industry I became aware of the X-lite X901. I don’t think we sold one, this wasn’t because it is a bad helmet, it is however slightly odd looking thanks to its innovative aerodynamic design. Although the X901 was exceptionally stable at speed and light we all tend to stick to what we know and so the big two continued to dominate.
Now with the X-lite X801RR they have produced a compact, light and stable race orientated helmet which I have found exceptional. The helmet comes with all the usual bells and whistles you’d expect at this end of the market. They call the lining material “unitherm” unlike others this material is smooth not fluffy and is very comfortable against skin. The lining is fully removable and washable. When purchasing an X-801RR there is the usual choice of sizes and three shell sizes that come with these so you don’t look like a swan vesta (a stick with a big head), you also have a choice of three sizes of cheek pads for each size, this is about as close to a custom fitted helmet you can get. The shell is constructed from Carbon, Kevlar and glass composite and the graphics are hand finished by the talented ladies at the company’s own factory in Italy, how much more glamour could you want?
The fact that the Nolan X-lite has its own factory where it produces all its helmets is unique, this way they insure the highest standards are upheld.
Using the helmet on a day to day bases which involves me donning and removing the lid several times has proven hassle free, the venting system works well and functions with ease, being a race focused product you get better benefit from these at higher speeds. It is at higher speed you notice that the lessons learned from the X901 have helped make this a very stable helmet, your head is not buffeted about violently helping you see clearly and stay fresh even after a long and fast Sunday blast. Vision from inside the helmet is excellent and I have found myself almost forgetting that I have it on as the pin lock anti-fog device keeps vision clear even when not moving with the visor shut. There is a dual action visor locking device, it will stay shut or have a small gap to help with airflow, this switch is easy to use, even in thick winter gloves. The visor release mechanism is simple and effective but feels tough and solid; there are no side pods to damage either.
Nolan X-lite have produce a very high quality helmet in the X801RR and this is proven by its track success, a bargain really with prices starting from £214.99 for the plain black “Start” rising to £299 for the replica graphics.
Nolan X-lite also produces the X701 which is designed with everyday use in mind. The basic specifications are the same as the X801RR, having a slightly different shape and fit to produce a more comfortable everyday helmet starting at a mere £209.99.
So have a good look at the X801RR or X701 from X-lite next time you choose to re-furnish your bonce.
Specifications:
- The Nolan N61 is a high quality painted GE Lexan® shell and Hi-Brite protective clear-coat.
- Chin bar and push button top vent.
- Optically correct, tool-less quick-change Lexan® face shield that is UVA and UVB protected.
- Sanitized antimicrobial hypoallergenic interior.
- Ready for a wind-protector and fog-resistant insert.
- Double D-Ring Retention System.
- DOT approved
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