RUROC ATLAS 2.0 CARBON HELMET – Moto Review

• DOT FMVSS 218 & ECE 22.05
• Aerospace-grade T300 Carbon Fibre
• Shockwave Compatible
• Anti-Fog & Anti-Scratch Flow Coated Lens
• Pinlock Visor for easy swapping
• Fidlock®

One look at this teeth-bearing venomous decal and one can’t help but stare. However, this Toxin design is more than just a sweet helmet to stare at. It’s well thought out design is perfect for riders who are looking for Bluetooth convenience, practicality, and protection.

The visors pin lock with multiple locking angles makes finding the right position and swapping of different visors a breeze, especially when you’re on the go and away from home and your tools. Swapping of the visor is a simple twist and pull of the pin lock. Swap the visor for any colored or clear version, then push and twist the pin locks back into position and you’re done! If you’re heading down the road and need some added ventilation or a different perspective, the cog-wheel ratchet mechanism for stepped visor movement allows for three different positions. Easy enough to slide into the right position with just one hand, yet strong enough to stay in position while cruising.

While I never suffered from lack of oxygen, the venting could be better. There were times where I felt it was getting too warm and a slip of the chin vent was all I needed, but then at times there were some fogging issues as well where I would need to flip the visor quickly to clear things up. Even though there is venting near the top and along the sides, having a way to control those areas would be a big improvement.

 

One of my favorite features is the fidlock. I’ve never had a helmet that made it this easy to secure the chin strap (even with gloves on). Then to take off, simply pull the red tab and viola! The magnetic design makes things easy, quick, and secure.

The DOT FMVSS 218 & ECE 22.05 rating ensures that this helmet can take a hit. Hopefully none of us will ever experience an accident that puts these ratings to the test, but it’s good to know that Ruroc did the testing for us. They also built in emergency straps as a safe way for EMC first responders to remove the helmet in the case of an accident.

 

The super lightweight carbon fiber design is easy on the neck, however, the internal padding (while necessary) is crazy tight and needs a long “break in” period for comfort. Putting the helmet on can be a struggle since the tight fit makes things hard on the ears. It felt like I went three rounds with an MMA fighter. Taking off the helmet is a little easier, but still felt like I was in the octagon. When it’s on and in the correct position, it does have a good amount of comfort, even for the longer rides.

If you invest your money in any of these Ruroc helmets that are compatible with the Shockwave, then do yourself a favor and spend the extra cash on the Shockwave. That was the main selling point for me. I’ve used other Bluetooth setups before, and while they work great, nothing looked as good or integrated better than the Shockwave. Because the Shockwave was built specifically for these helmets, everything fits perfectly. The installation was a breeze and pairing to my phone was super simple. The sound quality was impressive and loud enough to hear over my loud pipes and high speed winds, yet not over bearing to where it hindered my shifting or drowned out my surroundings. Even while taking a call, it was very clear and the people on the other side never even knew I was riding a motorcycle. The only issue I have with the Shockwave was the small controls. It was very difficult to feel the buttons and impossible while wearing gloves. You have to really practice where the location of the volume buttons are as well as the power button for ending calls.

There are so many different helmets in the market today, but few have as may capabilities and features like the Atlas 2.0. Ruroc really stepped up their game and came to play with their Moto series. While $495 for the helmet and another $150 for the Shockwave may seem pricey, I feel most riders who are looking for a solid Bluetooth integration, style, and protection will see the value in the Atlas 2.0.