First off, I have had this helmet for sometime and decided to ride in it for a bit to make a fair judgment of its features.
This wont be as detailed as some might like but hopefully it will provide some insight which might help people considering this lid as their next one.
Firstly, there is a Michel Fabrizio replica of the Apex that is out there, so it is fair to assume that Suomy designed this as a racing helmet.
Noise Levels: I have only owned a Nolan X-802 before this and as far as I can tell the helmet is not more noisy and is similar (somewhat) to the X-802.
Quality/Finish Exterior: The paint and graphics are very high quality, the metal flakings are great and really shine in the sunlight. But I have to say that the attention to detail isn't as good as I thought it would be. I had to look at 3 different Apexes to make sure everything looked and felt right. By that I mean the rear spoiler looked like it was installed in a rush on some helmets.
Ventilation: Disappointed by the level of ventilation on the Apex for a race helmet. I definitely sweat in there even if it is considerably cold and expected something a bit better.
Vision: Nothing spectacular; on average I would say I still have to take a quick look to the side to make sure no cars are lurking in those wrethced blind spots but then again who wouldn't regardless of what helmet they wear? Not much fogging, just once when it was cold outside but a little crack of the lid fixed that, I must add that there are no fixed positions for the visor to be adjusted to; you can infinitely adjust the visor's position within it's ROM which is a great advantage for sure.
Size/Fit: This for me is where it excels. I wear a Medium and it feels like I am putting on an additional scalp, not a helmet. It is so light, definitely lighter than the X-802 of the same size and is actually smaller, visually. So if you put both side by side, the Apex would obviously look smaller. The helmet is so damn comfortable that sometimes I feel I would never ever sell it unless I can find a helmet that is as comfortable as this is for me. We all know this depends on head shape/dimensions and it is up to you to find out which helmet suits your head shape. Suomy's in general do run small in size, so the Apex in Medium is definitely lighter than the X-802 in medium. I plan on trying the Small X-802 when it's available as I havent come across a helmet with such plush and quality interior as the X-802 and god willing must own one in the future.
Quality/Finish of Interior: Compared to the X-802, it is definitely not as good. The quality of the lining and cushioning is certainly not bad but not on par with the X-802 which then again is the best I have ever seen (including AGV, Icon, and Caberg). All in all it is comfortable and shouldnt create any problems. My only major gripe with this helmet is it's moisture wicking ability. I hate it when sweat trickles down your face and into your mouth. That is not suppose to happen! Again never had that problem with the X-802.
Value: I bought it for the equivalent of 250USD when it was on discount at the Honda dealer. You can decide how valuable you find it given the review and the price. I personally think it is good value for the price and features.
It is made in Italy FYI. I haven't changed the visor yet, but there are side plates which need to be removed using a tool which is provided (strapped to the helmet). I hear it's not the worst experience but not very convenient to change either.
Pics:
20121125_195503 by
SurgeRR, on Flickr
20121125_195450 by
SurgeRR, on Flickr
20121125_195437 by
SurgeRR, on Flickr
20121125_195335 by
SurgeRR, on Flickr
20121125_195428 by
SurgeRR, on Flickr
I feel the same about my Vandal, the Suomy won in fitment for me.
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