We feel obliged to make ever longer articles, for ever better developed motorcycle helmets. A small task, because the Shuberth C4 Pro Carbon already goes a step further than the C4 - which was already a redefinition of the flip-up helmet - and the C4 Pro - done with the teething problems and one level higher - and then you know what we’re talking about.
Shape and applications are very similar to the 'regular' (well…) C4 Pro, but Shuberth is now introducing a helmet shell in carbon. Carbon? Yes indeed. Formula 1 technology on the motorcycle. For the first time in a helmet designed to contain communications, so you've got a first. Okay, the Formula 1 drivers beat you to it, but that's a minor detail.
The C4 Pro Carbon's helmet shell has been extensively tested in a wind tunnel to be as aerodynamic and quiet as possible. The result is a very sleek helmet shell shape which remains very stable around the head even at high speeds. The carbon helmet shell is ultra-light, without compromising on strength. The inner shell of C4 Pro is made of different parts (EPS) of different thicknesses. This modular design optimizes both shock absorption and shock distribution.
The C4 Pro Carbon builds on the C4 Pro, which was a response to criticism of the original C4. Like the C4 Pro the C4 Pro Carbon is better, more complete and if possible, even quieter than its predecessor. Or it should be. Schuberth revisited the padding at the back of the neck to improve acoustics. This is part of the equally new interior, which has a soft velvet look. The Coolmax® is designed to be safe, snug and comfortable. All parts of the seamless interior are ultrasonically welded, which of course contributes to even greater comfort. Anti-allergic and antibacterial, removable and hand washable, that's to be expected at this level.
Washing won't be necessary too soon, because thanks to good air circulation you'll usually keep your head cool. At the front, the C4 Pro Carbon has a lockable top and chin ventilation. Through ventilation channels in the inner shell, these air intakes are connected to the air outlet, which is neatly incorporated into the neck rim.
It is clear that the visor has also been aerodynamically optimized. There are certain reliefs applied to optimize airflow and the visor extends far back to prevent turbulence at the visor mount. The C4 Pro Carbon is standard equipped with a transparent visor made of a scratch-resistant material. Attaching the supplied Pinlock 120® lens is no problem at all. Thanks to the Microlock system the visor can be replaced easily and without tools, if necessary, by a tinted visor. In addition, the C4 Pro Carbon also got an internal sun visor, which can be easily operated even with gloves on, on the left bottom side of the helmet. Cutouts are particularly pleasing to spectacle-wearers. A treatment on the outside of the visor with Rain-X anti-rain spray improves visibility during rain showers.
The chin strap of the C4 Pro Carbon closes by means of a micrometric quick release. The soft and comfortable chin strap is equipped with the A.R.O.S. system developed by Schuberth. This ensures that in case of impact, the helmet cannot roll off the back of your head if the chin strap is fastened correctly. It also minimizes the risk of contact between the chin part of the helmet and the chin and/or neck of the rider.
Especially for the C4 Pro series, Schuberth has developed a new intercom together with Sena: the SC1. All parts for the installation of the intercom are already built into the helmet: a microphone, a set of speakers, the wiring and an antenna. The SC1 module can be bought separately, and only needs to be placed in the appropriate notches. ‘Plug-and-Play' is the name of the game, and that's what it comes down to. Especially because (compared to the original C4) the microphones got a new, better position, which leads to better intelligibility when using the intercom.
In France (and certain other countries) reflective stickers are mandatory.
Register the purchase of your Schuberth helmet and get 5 years warranty (only valid on helmets purchased after 01/11/2015): http://www.schuberth.com/en/products/motorbikes/warranty-registration.html.
Maintenance tips:
- Are you reluctant to disassemble the interior of your helmet in order to wash it? You can also clean the interior without removing it with S100 Helmet Interior Cleaner.
- The outside and the visor of your helmet should be cleaned with S100 Helmet and Visor Cleaner.
Safety above all! Never ride with a scratched or dull visor. Especially at night, scratches cause blinding reflections of street lights and headlights of oncoming vehicles. This effect is even more pronounced in rainy weather. It is best to replace a worn visor as soon as possible. Planning a long trip? Then don't forget to take a replacement visor with you. Never ride in the dark with a tinted visor.
