Joe Rocket R1000X Lithium Helmet Test
Joe Rocket has earned a reputation of offering vivid graphics and high-performance designs on its helmets, which are manufactured by HJC, as well as affordability. The R1000X Lithium series continues to build on those attributes.
The Lithium line of the R1000X series is offered in five color combinations with the same graphic pattern applied to a polycarbonate composite shell. There is also the “Blaster” line of R1000X helmets with three color combinations offered with a different graphic pattern.
Impact energy absorption is provided by dual-density expanded polystyrene (EPS), which in concert with the polycarbonate composite shell meet DOT FMVSS 218 and Snell Memorial Foundation M2010 performance standards (for more on helmet safety performance standards see visit Motorcycle Helmet Standards Explained).
The standard clear shield and the optional XPEED XD-1 tinted reflective shield meet or exceed VESC-8 standards, as well.
The shields include an anti-fog coating, which is augmented by a removable Air Guide breath deflector in the chin bar. Despite all that, I did experience some minor fogging at the bottom edge of the shield riding on one of Wisconsin’s cold spring days—and only when stopped. While riding, the adjustable face area ventilation prevented any fogging.
The face shields feature a quick-change mechanism that requires no tools, but the mechanism on the R1000X model is slightly different than that on the RKTPrime. If you’re familiar with one, you’ll have to do a brief study on the other to figure it out. The R1000X’s owner’s manual is far less detailed than the one that is provided with the RKTPrime helmet, and it does not include instructions on changing face shields. The ratchet mechanism holds the face shield securely in nine different opening positions, and the fully closed position is very secure.
The QWICKDRY comfort liner is just that — comfortable — as well as removable and washable. That, in conjunction with the CAD specified interior shape make for a very good, true-to-size fit. The retention system is black nylon strap with a fine weave so it is very smooth to the touch, preventing it from feeling abrasive if it contacts your skin. That doesn’t happen often because the strap is padded enough to cover the length of the area it contacts under the chin. Closure is with a double-D ring set and a snap to hold the free end.
Joe Rocket’s ventilation system – the Quad-port 2.0 – works very well. Besides the two close able crown vents on top of the helmet, the chin bar is loaded with vents, a two-position closable vent, two screened intakes at the sides that have rotary closures inside the chin bar, and two small screened openings at the bottom. Six screened exhaust ports out back include two large venturi-effect vents at the rear spoiler that allows air to escape the shell.
At highway speed, there is minor wind noise in the helmet, but no whistle from the shield when it is in the locked down position. An integral chin curtain and inward neck roll around the base of the interior padding helps minimize wind roar. Aerodynamics are good with very little wind buffeting at highway speeds.
The R1000X weighs in at about 3.75 lb., or 1,700 g, on par with other composite shell full-face helmets. Sizes range from Small (55-56 cm) to XXL (63-64 cm), and the MSRP is $169.99.
Joe Rocket backs the helmet up with a three-year warranty and includes a cloth cinch-sack carrying bag. For more information visit Joe Rocket.
