Shark RSF3 Smoke Helmet - review

The Shark RSF3 is the evolution of the popular RSF2i helmet, tested here in smoke graphic it is visually striking and seems a very nice helmet indeed

Stunning detail on a well made lid

Initial Thoughts

Having seen the Shark RSF3 I was impressed with the overall design, the smoke graphic made a very nice change to lairy graphics found on other helmets and the whole aesthetic just flowed. One thing stands out above all others though and that is the one touch 'push' visor change system, this in itself adds a lovely design feature to the lid which really sets it apart from the others.

Construction
Built from a composite shell made up of multi-directional fibres the shark feels light enough to be comfortable, the lining is fully removable and washable the air vents seem to be in the right places to work - however a few things stood out when testing the helmet.

Firstly the air vents do not seem to do as good a job as they realistically could, I found that with everything open I could barely feel any ventilation around my head, this may not be the case though as others I have spoken to have stated quite the opposite and as we all know every helmet will not suit every person. Secondly the noise!!! Christ on a bike it is loud, with wind noise making any form of riding without earplugs a deafening experience - we should all be using earplugs but on occasion when I forget mine I really notice it with the RSF3, the main factor in the noise though is wind blast which creates a resonant booming and this in itself could be yet another issue with my particular head rather than the overall design - indeed it does seem to be worse with a double bubble screen on my Kawasaki.

Those problems aside I found the Shark to be a comfortable helmet for day to day use, the visor removal system works as it should and with earplugs in I have had no qualms about wearing this particular lid every day on commutes and personal rideouts.

• Shell made from multi-directional fibres.
• Multi-element internal shock-absorber with differentiated density.
• Airflow directed by integrated ducts.
• Dual treated (anti-scratch/anti-fog) Total Vision 2.2 mm visor.
• SHARK’s patented “Push One” visor quick release system.
• Optimised demisting using visor frame diffuser.
• Fully removable and washable interior in microfi bre fabric.
• Ergonomic cheek pads in 3D foam.
• Anti-misting visor and chin cover.
• Quick release chin strap (Double-D ring for North America and Australia).
• Weight: 1 400 g (± 50 g).