One of the coolest things about being a moto-journo is the fact that we are lucky enough to be given products to review on a regular basis, so when FOX sent out its 2010 model V3 Carbon helmet to wear during my motocross and off-road testing, it’s safe to say that I was pumped.

Since that time back in October last year I’ve been wearing the helmet each and every time I’ve ridden, now feeling as one with the trick looking lid whenever I pull it on.

As you could guess, the V3 Carbon adds the strength of carbon-fibre to the newest V3 design, complete with a sharp graphic kit that exposes plenty of carbon-fibre beneath the minimal white and gold decals.

Some of the greatest riders in the world wear the V3, including legends of the their own respective sports such as new AMA Supercross Champion Ryan Dungey, the GOAT Ricky Carmichael, double MX Nationals Champion Jay Marmont, Freestyle Motocross heroes Blake Williams and Cam Sinclair, plus reigning Australian Off-Road Champion Toby Price.

The list goes on, and in speaking to a lot of those guys about their helmets, it’s not just about the cheque that may be waved in front of them to get them into the helmet – it’s about rider safety.

Some of the features of the V3 include a lightweight strong carbon-fibre, Kevlar and fiberglass construction; a removable mouthpiece for easier cleaning; a rear vent design to maximise air flow; a multi-channel internal EPS liner that distributes air through helmet; fully removable and washable Coolmax comfort liner and cheek pads; super-wide eye port for greater peripheral vision; the venting system includes 10 intake ports and four exhausts, as well as adjustable intake vents that open up and lock down.

So what’s it like to ride with?

First things first, it looks unreal. Full stop.

Secondly, the comfort of the liner is certainly one of the best that I’ve ever used, absorbing sweat and usually even drying quickly in between motos on the warmer days.

FOX sent me the Small helmet, which was admittedly a little tight at first, however an updated set of Medium size pads inside the helmet fixed my problems in no time.

A comfortable tightening strap around the neck is ultra important in my books, and FOX hits this part of the product on the heat, offering a perfect fit that’s easily adjustable too.

In fact, everything about the V3 is complete, whether it be simple things such as the strap, ear holes within the interior, or even the first class venting system that has obviously had loads of development gone into it.

It’s incredibly light, comfortable and looks the goods, so for the RRP of $599.95 (or $499.95 for the regular V3), go to your local dealer and check one out today.

You’ll be impressed, no doubt.

PURCHASE DETAILS
Available colours: Carbon (V3 also available in Monster Replica; Vortex; Type O-Negative and Anti-Scene graphics)
Price: Carbon and Monster Replica $599.95; Others $499.95
Distributor: Monza Imports
www.monzaimports.com.au

PLUS POINTS
+ Weight
+ Air venting
+ Padding comfort
+ Everybody loves carbon

MINUS POINTS
– Looks to good to wear!

MotoOnline.com.au editor Alex Gobert in action with FOX's V3 Carbon helmet.