Bob Pickett has been testing the Ruroc Atlas 4.0 full-face motorcycle helmet. Here’s Bob’s thoughts!
Slipping on easily, the 4.0 squeezes the cheeks but is comfortable – but for a carbon lid, the ATLAS 4.0 is weighty (a reported 1600g). On the plus side It returns total stability even on a naked bike at motorway speeds.
Where the ATLAS 4.0 shines is field of vision. With a vast 100-degree vertical and 215-degree horizontal aperture, it’s like you’re not wearing a lid. Visor operation is easy (big tab on the left). There’s no integral sun visor, but it comes with a spare dark visor as standard. Changing the visor is simple.
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Ruroc sets great store in customer input – feedback on the ATLAS 3.0 was for improved venting and soundproofing, so ventilation on the 4.0 comes via chin and forehead vents, with an always open rear exit (what look like extra vents beneath the visor are closed, for stylistic purposes only).
The chin vent slider is on the inside of the helmet, making it impossible to operate when on. In the open position I got good airflow, notably at my face, so good news for a glasses wearer, but no air seemed to hit the visor (more a cold weather issue – I tested during the July heatwave). The top vents don’t seem to do a great deal.
As regards soundproofing, up to around 50mph it’s no noisier or quieter than other helmets at this price point; picking up the pace you need earplugs (which you should be wearing at higher speeds anyway).
The ATLAS 4.0 is something of a Curate’s Egg. It’s carbon yet heavy; the fastening mechanism is an answer to a question no one asked (the Track version has conventional double D-rings); and the venting is a mixed bag. But I like it.
The phenomenal field of vision and utter stability are winning points.
Bob Pickett / £425 / www.ruroc.com
