#33 Goes All Out To Test Fly Helmets

FLY Helmet follow up

After reporting on my FLY helmet with LOTS of miles on it, I went out and did a REAL test!   Just for you mx43 readers I landed on my head to complete the evaluation process.  Oops.

Although completely unplanned I did take a trip over the bars and landed on my head and shoulder in a very rocky area. I was only traveling at about 15-20 mph but got caught off guard which resulted in the subsequent somersault.

After landing squarely on my head and shoulder in rocky terrain I fully expected to have some sort of injury but got up with nothing more than scrapes on the forearm. When I stood I was quite surprised myself!  The FLY helmet took a gnarly impact as you can see by the gouging in the photos. The impact was cushioned enough than I never realized I hit my head that hard. No headache, no bruises, nothing.  Just gouging to the helmet.

So I guess it is about time to retire this helmet and play it safe. After all I am the safest dude you know!

#33

‘Even duct tape can’t fix stupid…..but it can muffle the sound’

Fly Formula Helmet

I have been wearing a FLY Formula helmet now since before my injury and all during my ‘rehab riding’.  It just occurred to me how much time I have put on this helmet just in recovery alone, since I am riding at every opportunity; I have had calls from people that ask if I want to ride with them next week, tomorrow and sometimes even in an hour. I just ask where I need to meet them and show up.

I finally had to introduce another helmet into my riding when I discovered the FLY Formula helmet was not completely dried out from the previous days ride. I know it sounds a bit disgusting but it actually made me smile. Just the fact that I was able to be back on the bike for this many hours and days at a time.

I set the FLY helmet on the bench to let it dry out before giving it a good washing. The protective interior is removable allowing it to be easily washed and cleaned giving access to the inside of the shell for a complete cleaning and inspection. It is now back on my head and I discovered some things I really like after giving it a break. The fit is great from the moment I put it on, it is very comfortable and has no pressure points anywhere, and is comfortable for hours on end.  The face opening allows for goggles to fit easily whether putting them on or taking them off.  The only drawback is that when I use my hydration system I have to take my time when putting the drinking hose in my mouth. The face piece is close enough that it requires I use a slow and deliberate motion but poses no problem with access.

The fit and finish are nice and I have had several people comment on the good looks.  It is probably getting near its life cycle, but would have to estimate I have somewhere in the neighborhood of 250 to 300 hours on it. I would recommend anyone shopping for an off-road/moto helmet take a close look at the FLY Formula helmet.  It is attractive, durable, and comfortable and best of all reasonably priced for a quality piece of equipment.

Ride Safe!                                                                                                                                                                 

#33