Doctoring the Voss Carbon Fiber or, Learning to Love a New Helmet

When I first heard I was going to get an opportunity to try out the new Voss 888 Carbon Fiber Cruiser Helmet, I was very excited. My current helmet has seen a lot of highway, and I was about to start shopping around for a replacement. I kicked this decision into high gear when I watched this video posted by @Alex of a cheap helmet being smashed to pieces with one strike of a hammer (http://eatsleepride.com/c/18883/what_a_difference_a_helmet_makes). I have no experience with carbon fiber helmets, but I know the material is supposed to be light, but also brittle. I will admit to a modest amount of skepticism about this helmet's ability to resist impact, but was very intrigued to see how something this light would feel.

So the Voss 888 CF review gave me the perfect opportunity to look at a top of the line new carbon fiber product that has been getting lots of attention in the forums, as well as to check out the comparables.

Voss markets this helmet as a lightweight composite shell with superior strength for maximum protection. The 888 CF comes with interchangeable drop- down visors (removable), a removable, moisture wicking lining, and interior air channels to help maximize air flow. The helmet is advertised with a traditional double-ring mechanism and comes in two options: gloss or matte black. Maybe it's just me, but I find the matte black version looks way badder.

My assessment of this helmet will be based on the following criteria:

1. Safety: Is this helmet designed to withstand a high-speed impact?

2. Weight: Does Carbon Fiber make this helmet noticeably lighter than my existing skull cap?

3. Fit & Feel: Does the helmet feel good on my head? Are there any pressure points? Are the fasteners comfortable? Does it look good or is it goofy? Most importantly, does it stay put at highway speeds?

After a short wait, the Voss888CF has arrived in the mail. Next to my old helmet, it is a thing of beauty, and I'm itching to take it for a test ride. I notice that this model has come with a quick-release snapping fastener instead of the traditional d-ring. I botch my first ride by not adjusting the strap properly. The helmet is loose and the strap slaps me in the face continuously. After a short ride I adjust the strap for a better fit. Voss has of course provided a handy adjustment clip that holds the excess strap in place. After these minor adjustments the helmet fits snugly and there is no more face slapping (relief!). The quick release fastener turns out to be a very welcome device for running about town, as I can remove and replace the helmet in one motion, with one hand.

I have been using this helmet for a few days now, and the fit is excellent. The helmet is overall very light. There are no pressure points and the sizing is perfect. However, I have noticed a distinct tendency for this helmet to drag upwards at highway speeds. I have removed the front upper visor in an attempt to reduce updrag, but it appears that the drag is mostly attributed to the larger overall dimensions required to house the drop-down visor; a feature that I initially find unnecessary and undesirable. Until I`m caught in a surprise rain storm, that is! With only a pair of light glasses on during my morning commute, I am caught in a flash storm as I enter the freeway. Pins and needles pricking my face and stinging my eyes leave me unable to maintain highways speeds and I am considering exiting for the sake of safety, when I remember that I have a drop-down visor that I immediately engage. The relief is instantaneous…I can see once again and my ride has been saved. The drop- down visor has completely redeemed itself and I am more willing to accept a little bit of updrag in order to have such a welcome safety device.

Speaking of safety, Voss has chosen to certify this helmet against DOT standards, meaning that this medium sized ultra-light hand-woven carbon fiber beany is rated to withstand an impact of up to 90 J and requires that the rider's head not exceed acceleration speeds greater than 400 Gs. In other words, the Voss888CF meets all minimum mandatory safety standards for helmets sold in the United States and Canada. A note of caution: above a certain speed, no amount of helmet technology can prevent you from suffering brain injury. But I am reassured to know that this helmet has undergone stringent certification and that the manufacturer is required to regularly submit samples for testing.

So there you have it: the Voss888CF is a comfortable fit in an ultra-light package that has some welcome rain-protection and meets strict safety criteria. Did I forget to mention that it looks really cool too! In fact, I spotted a guy getting an eyeful of my bike the other day…turns out he was taking a closer look at the helmet on my seat! Good job Voss.

For those who are interested, the Voss888CF will retail for $129.99. Until Voss launches its online store you can get in touch with the company's representatives directly at www.vossdot.com to find out how to buy your own.