6D ATB-1T Helmet – First Look
Tom takes a first look at the revolutionary 6D ATB-1T open face helmet.
6D have a strong presence in motocross and BMX, making what some have called the safest lids in the business. They are pushing the mountain bike market now with the introduction of the ATB-1T (Advanced Technology Bike – Trail) open face lid. In their marketing materials they make a thing of not calling it a “half face”, rather a “three quarters coverage” and describe it as an engineering masterpiece.
At the core of the helmet is the ODS – Omnidirectional Suspension. In simple terms it’s two slim helmets, one suspended between the other by a couple of dozen elastomer dampers. This allows for a little bit of rotational movement during crashes, similar to MIPS and other systems. Reducing rotational forces during crashes is currently being shown to be key in preventing and reducing concussions, and with research ongoing, and the links to the tragic passing of BMX legend Dave Mirra, it’s the next step for helmet designers to tackle. What sets this apart from the MIPS system is that as well as allowing rotational forces to be absorbed, the small dampers will absorb smaller forces than the expanded foam of the helmet shells. The level of research that has gone into the ODS system 6D are using is excellent.
The two things that we look for in helmets are comfort and fit. I’m happy to let the professionals do the lab testing and tell me how safe a lid is, I want to know how well it’s going to fit on my head, and if it’s going to be a hassle to wear.
Coverage, as you’d expect, is full; low over the temples and back of the head. Under the chin is a fidlock magnetic buckle, and a simple wheel on the back to adjust the cradle. Inside is an wicking liner, and there are a bunch of vents to get the airflow going across your dome. The peak is unobtrusive and adjustable. Comfort is there, the 56-59cm fitting my fairly round 59cm head well. Smaller and larger shell sizes are available as well. The lid is slightly bulkier than many trail lids on the market, and does come with a higher price tag, comparable with top end lids from other brands.
The scientist in me is excited about doing some more reading about concussion and head injury prevention, while the biker in me is is excited by getting my head in it and out on the trails.
RRP £159.99
