Comments about Zox Helmets Genesis R SVS Flip-Up Helmet with Inner Visor - XX-Small:

We had a customer email us this raving review about this helmet:

I took delivery of the new Zox Genesis helmet last week (March 2008), and have since put about 70 miles on it with my bike. While not an exhaustive review, my initial impressions are provided below for your information:

• Others considered: Modular helmets (flip-up design) were pricy, and did not see glowing reviews in the press reports I read. Another import helmet got a decent review, but seem to be no longer available for import from Italy. The Zox is an “economy” helmet, but seemed worth it to give it a try. Price is definitely a bargain.

• Fit and finish are excellent. Paint and interior fabric are well done.

• Helmet seems “plasticky,” with considerable creaking when manipulating the chin bar. It is possible this is typical with modular helmets, but since this is my first one I don’t know.

• Flip-up chin bar uses single button at the front to manipulate the latch. The latch mechanism appears to be plastic, not metal, but nevertheless seems secure. (I could not force it open without pushing the button.)

• Plenty of size options available; Small through 5XL.

• Fair amount of wind noise above 50 mph. I’m told this is typical for modular helmets. My bike has a windscreen that creates a bit of turbulence at the top of my head, so I don’t know how this helmet would sound while riding an unfaired bike.

• Clear outer visor snaps shut securely and has perfectly spaced detents for partial-open riding.

• Anti-fog design and ventilation seem excellent--much more effective than my old full-face.

• I do not own an intercom, but there appears to be plenty of room in the ears to mount one.

• The helmet comes with a snap-in chin protector as an accessory. It is very comfortable to wear and keeps the wind off the bottom of your chin; however, the thing does not snap in very securely and it is easy to inadvertently knock it loose when grabbing for your chin bar. I’ll examine this and consider adding a dab of glue or some other modification.

• The #1 selling point for me with this helmet was the moveable interior sun visor. Initially, I found it a bit distracting, as the lower edge of the visor crossed right in front of my bike instruments and thus created a “bifocal” effect during my scan. However, I discovered if I gently press the right side of the visor shade with my finger, the visor can actually be lowered beyond the “stop pegs” an additional half-inch, which makes all the difference. When fully down, the interior visor will now almost touch my nose, which provides a good fit for me. I think I will file a bevel onto the stop pegs to allow the visor to snap fully down using only the lever without any other separate manipulation.

• Would I buy it again? Indications are good so far, but I need more mileage in order to make a final judgment.

Cheers, and good luck!

Chris, South Dakota