Cardo Systems has launched the Venture, an off-road helmet with a mesh intercom built into the shell. It is the company’s first helmet, designed for trail riders. The new Cardo Venture helmet has an MSRP of $799 and will reach dealers later this summer. The helmet meets both ECE 22.06 and DOT standards, so it will also work for dual-sport and adventure riders.
“Off-road riding has always been about pushing limits, but communication has lagged behind, until now,” Cardo Systems Chief Executive Officer Alon Lumbroso said. “For the first time, riders have a seamless way to stay connected in the most demanding off-road environments, fundamentally changing how they train, ride, and experience the sport together.”
Just as helmet-to-helmet intercoms are useful to street bike riders, they are highly valuable to the trail bike community, as the ability to communicate increases safety and camaraderie. Riders can pick lines, call out hazards, and stay together across terrain that normally strings a group out of earshot. Plus, it makes it possible to share the off-road experience in real time without stopping.
The Cardo Venture helmet has a place on the motocross track too, though mainly for MX training rather than racing. A coach can talk a rider through a section in real time instead of relying on hand signals. This speeds up skill-building for newer riders and allows instant communication with experienced racers.
The intercom system runs on Cardo’s second-generation Dynamic Mesh Communication, which can connect up to 15 riders at a range of up to 1 mile. Bluetooth intercom links to units from other brands, so a mixed group running different headsets can still talk. Audio comes from 40mm Sound by JBL speakers, and the software recognizes voice commands. The software supports over-the-air updates, while the electronics are removable, serviceable, and upgradeable. The system earns an IP67 waterproof rating, so it can take a dunking over three feet deep, and it’s absolutely dust-tight.
The Cardo Venture helmet was not designed from scratch. It is built on the Leatt Moto 8.5 platform, which uses a Kevlar/carbon/fiberglass composite outer shell, with interior protection from four-density impact foam. Additionally, 360-degree Turbine Technology lets the helmet shift slightly on the head during a crash to reduce rotational forces and absorb low-speed impacts associated with concussion. It also has emergency-release cheek pads, a double D-ring strap, and a breakaway peak. Given that Leatt invented the neck brace, it’s no surprise that the Venture is neck-brace compatible.
Natively an intermediate-oval design, the Venture uses Leatt’s Pro-Fit modular pad system to dial in fit across head shapes. Inside, an antimicrobial Ionic+ liner wicks moisture and fights odor. An integrated side port accommodates a hydration line. Low- and high-speed air intake vents work with channels in the interior shell to keep the rider’s head cool.
The Cardo Venture helmet will be available in sizes XS to XXL. The warranty lasts five years for the helmet, three years for the electronics, and one year for the battery.
Cardo Venture Specifications
Sizes: XS – XXL (three shell sizes)
Weight sans electronics: 2.8 (XS) – 3.2 pounds (XXL)
Weight with electronics: 3.2 (XS) – 3.4 pounds (XXL)
Shell: Kevlar/carbon/fiberglass composite
Certifications: ECE 22.06; DOT
ELECTRONICS
Software: 2nd-generation Dynamic Mesh Communication (DMC)
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