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Quiet Technology
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AGV TiTech Helmet
Don Williams
08/10/2007
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When you see Valentino Rossi tearing across the tracks of the MotoGP
circuit, he's wearing an AGV TiTech helmet. That's a pretty good endorsement,
and I'm sure AGV pays a king's ransom for #46 to wear their wares. The nice
thing about trickle-down, is that we can buy (prices range from $500 to $680,
depending on the graphics) and wear a helmet that is built to the standards of a
MotoGP champion.
While slipping an Italian-made TiTech on my head
doesn't get me one step closer to Rossi's  brilliance, it is a reassuring feel.
AGV says the TiTech has a "racing fit, very snug," and there can be no argument
about that. It's snug, but not uncomfortably tight. In fact, when you initially
put the helmet on, you might think it's too small. But, get it on and let it
settle before you decide (this is a helmet better bought in a shop than online).
Every skull has a different shape, of course, so your mileage may vary, but my
head agrees with the AGV shell.
As far as features go, AGV has the
basics covered. There are two titanium vents on top with three position switches
(full open, partially open, closed), and closeable vents on the chin. Airflow is
good, but not great. The removable and washable plush Cool Max liner works in
concert with the Carbon-Kevlar shell to make the helmet comfortable. Part of
that comfort equation is how quiet the TiTech is at high speeds. I find earplugs
to be annoying, and this helmet saves me from premature deafness.
The
double D-ring chinstrap cinch is traditional, and an easy-to-use snap
confidently holds the otherwise dangling strap. The XQRS (Extra Quick Release
System) for the shield is a no-tool design. It's not quite the easiest shield
replacement system out there, but it's close. Tear-offs can be added for
racetrack use. The helmet has both DOT and BSI (UK) approvals, along with a
three-year warranty.
The AGV TiTech is one of my go-to helmets, and the
Tattoo Silver graphic (shown) works with a variety of machines. If you're a
Rossi fan, there are seven different graphics designs with his name on them; if
you'd rather not wear a helmet with Rossi graphics, there are still a dozen
choices.
www.agv.com
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