I just got my hands on the new Klim X1 Alpha adventure helmet, and it is nice! There does not appear to be any elements of this helmet that were not carefully designed and then implemented by the maker. My first impressions were excellent, thanks to the fit and finish. The gray and titanium colors on the Gloss Metallic Asphalt – Monument model I’m reviewing are beautifully done.
It is foremost an ADV adventure helmet. However, if you remove the peak—Klim calls it Street Mode—you might say it’s a sport-touring helmet. But why even remove the peak when it is so nice to have when riding into the sunrise or sunset?
The build of the Klim X1 Alpha is top-notch, thanks to a hand-laid, pre-impregnated carbon fiber outer shell that contains the Koroyd and EPS inner shell for impact energy absorption.
Koroyd is a brand-name product designed to protect by crushing to absorb impact, has a geometric pattern appearance, and is incorporated into many brand-name safety products. I shined a bright light into the interior and could see the green, honeycomb-like structure of the Koroyd beneath the vent channels in the EPS.
Venting and airflow over the scalp is about average, thanks to two closable forehead intake vents and two adjustable chin guard vents that match up with four exhaust vents.
Within the X1 Alpha, I see typical padding along the top of the head with airflow cutouts, as seen with many brands. The X1 Alpha stands out by surrounding the rider’s neck with a thick and plush band composed of an impressive patchwork of poly, poly mesh, and goat leather. It is all sewn into a complex pattern with one of the widest chin coverings around.
This results in a helmet that requires a good pull to get over your head, then rewards you with a plush and peaceful environment due to the tight seal around the neck. I’d say this seals as well as many modular helmets on the market. Secure the chin strap with the weight-saving titanium double D-rings, and you’re ready to go.
The deluxe interior features cheek pads in the standard shape and three snaps, along with soft and full coverings over the ear cavities to accommodate your communication system speakers. These thin and soft “speaker covers” attach via hook-and-loop to the adjacent liner areas for a complete and tight solution.
I installed a Sena 60S intercom in the Klim X1 Alpha. Between the thickness of the speakers and the hook-and-loop backings required, plus the speaker covers, the speakers rubbed slightly against my ears, causing some irritation after many hours in the saddle. A millimeter or two more depth in the speaker indentations would have been helpful.
Although the X1 Alpha does not come with a dropdown sunshield, it does include an accessory photochromic faceshield that darkens as the day gets brighter. It’s easy to change, and no tools are needed—same with the peak.
Klim warns against using the photochromatic shield with the peak removed—Street mode—due to the varying shade it produces on the faceshield. I prefer a dropdown internal sunshade rather than having to change faceshields, but that’s not available here. You may also remove the faceshield and run with goggles.
All aspects and parts of this carbon shell are said to be optimized for best aerodynamics and to lower vibration and wind noise. This includes gaskets, vents, peak, visor, and shell. Klim says they’ve designed the peak and rear spoiler to reduce lift and drag, and after many long, high-speed highway rides, I can say that they succeeded. I like that I can press a button at the back of the peak to adjust it in three positions. This helps when riding into the sun.
Wind has a bit of influence on the X1 Alpha, though there’s no drag or lift. Even with the peak installed, there was no buffeting when my head was turned sideways. Also, it’s relatively quiet at a fast sport-touring pace.
The Klim X1 Alpha is a lightweight helmet—3.4 pounds in size Large—at a premium price. Adventure helmets are gaining popularity among sport-touring riders, and the X1 Alpha serves as a high-quality introduction to the ADV genre.
Klim X1 Alpha Helmet Fast Facts
- Sizes: XS – 3X
- Outer shell: Hand-laid carbon fiber
- Certifications: DOT and ECE
Colors
- Carbon Matte Black
- Gloss Concept High-Rise – Electric Blue Lemonade (+$25)
- Gloss Concept Petrol – Strike Orange (+$25)
- Gloss Hi-Vis – White
- Gloss Metallic High-Rise – Monument
- Gloss Metallic Asphalt – Monument
- Matte Peyote – Teak
- Patriot – Gloss Metallic Gunmetal Black (+$25)
Klim X1 Alpha Helmet Price: from $850 MSRP
