Shoei Hornet X2 Helmet
The Hornet X2 marks a welcome evolution of the increasingly popular dual-sport helmet category. Recognizing that many Adventure Bike riders still spent plenty of time on the pavement, this helmet has been optimized for on-road use, while still offering plenty of off-road sensibility. It retains the same general traits of its predecessor (the Hornet DS) and virtually every other dual-sport on the market—with an overhead peaked visor and a big, open eyeport, which affords excellent visibility both off-road and heads-up city situations. For reference the value-packed (and priced) Bell MX-9 Adventure is a good example of the breed. Unlike most other dual-sport helmets available, however, this one is actually quiet enough to hear yourself think at highway speeds. Shoei accomplishes this feat in two ways. First its cheek pads and (removable) chin curtain setup help create an airtight seal to eliminate wind noise from creeping in at the collar. Secondly, instead of a highly vented grill at t