Riders of any income level should be able to find and afford a quality helmet meeting the latest safety standards. Riders today have a wide variety of quality helmets to choose from in just about every price range.

Fulmer Helmets offers helmets with Snell M2005 and/or DOT certification at attractive prices. The Fulmer SS is one of their latest full-face offerings, with a modern and attractive design. The MSRP for the SS model is USD $155.95 to $173.95 depending on graphics options.

Basic Features

• Snell and DOT approved
• EPS padded chin bar
• QR2 quick release shield system
• Removable washable interior
• Padded D-Ring retention system
• Adjustable chin vent
• Adjustable forehead intake vents
• Free flow exhaust vents
• Breath spoiler
• DRI-LEX moisture wicking interior
• UV clear coating, protecting paint and graphics
• Includes Fulmer helmet sack

Initial check-out

First impressions

I chose the SS with Red Maelstrom graphics. The overall construction quality is good. The paint is smooth, glossy and I did not notice any imperfections. The SS helmet feels light. Visor and vents open and close and operate smoothly. The rear diffuser looks good and is well integrated. I selected a Medium size and it fits well. The helmet profile is longer than normal and the opening seems a little narrow. The padding and liner quality is very nice, the removable liner held in place with Velcro fits well and stays in place.

The helmet includes a nicely made drawstring bag bearing the Fulmer logo, for protection while you aren't wearing the helmet.

Visor

The SS visor hinge features a six-position detent. Visor action is smooth and positive. The tab on the lower left front of the visor is easy to find and operate while wearing gloves. The Quick-Release ("QR2") visor release is very easy to use—to remove the visor open fully and press down on the release on both sides, and the visor is released. Replacing the visor is just as easy, press the release and position visor tabs into place. I found cleaning or reapplying anti-fog cleaner during a ride to be a quick and easy task. The breath guard worked well and never contacted my nose. The chin spoiler is easy to remove and replace.

Ventilation controls

Front vents are easy to locate and operate even while wearing touring/winter gloves. Slide up for open, down for closed. The rear vent is not adjustable and is always open.

Ride test

The SS helmet has a sport oriented fit and aerodynamic shape. I rode sportbikes and standards with the Fulmer SS helmet, and didn't feel out of place. The side profile is a little longer than my other helmet, and I noticed a little more side pressure when looking to the side while riding at freeway speeds.

I found the SS comfortable to wear for extended periods. The SS helmet should fit the bill for any street application.

Ventilation

I tested the Fulmer SS helmet in temperatures between 40° and 75°(Fahrenheit). The front vent is effective and easy to operate. The forehead vents work well. While closed I noticed no leaks, while open they provide noticeable air flow. The rear vent is always open and I did not notice any negative effects while riding in cooler temperatures.

Wind noise

There was a noticeable “whistle” at freeway speeds when turning your head to the side, which seemed to be more pronounced with a cross-wind. Overall, wind noise (without hearing protection) was acceptable for short trips even at freeway speed. Of course, prudence dictates that hearing protection should be worn at all times when riding a motorcycle.

Vision

Vision is unrestricted with excellent peripheral vision. The visor quality is excellent—crystal clear and and distortion-free.

Conclusion

The SS is an attractive helmet with performance styling, quality fit and finish, and good functionality at a very reasonable price. The SS offers good value, and it's a great option for riders on a budget or beginners worried about damaging a more expensive helmet while gaining experience.

There are three graphics choices (in a variety of colors) and 5 solid colors available. You should have no trouble finding a color and pattern to complement your motorcycle no matter what you ride.

For more information, please visit Fulmer Helmets.

Acknowlegements

Thanks to Fulmer Helmets for providing review materials and information.