We feel obligated to write longer and longer articles about increasingly better motorcycle helmets. A small task, because the Shuberth C4 Pro Carbon goes one step further than the C4 - which was already a redefining flip-up helmet - and the C4 Pro - out with the teething problems and another level up - and then you understand what we are talking about.
Shape and applications are very closely related to the 'normal' (well) C4 Pro, but Shuberth is now introducing a helmet shell in carbon. Carbon? Yes. Formula 1 technology on the motorcycle. For the first time in a helmet that is equipped to contain a communication system, so you've got a first. Okay, the Formula 1 drivers beat you to it, but that's a minor detail.
The helmet shell of the C4 Pro Carbon was extensively tested in a wind tunnel to be as aerodynamic and quiet as possible. The result is a very sleek helmet shell shape, that even at high speeds, remains very stable around the head. The carbon helmet shell is ultra-light, without any compromise in terms of strength. The inner shell of the 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 the criticism that the original C4 received. Just 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 reviewed the padding in the back of the neck to improve acoustics. It 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, as expected at this level.
Washing won't have to be done very quickly, because thanks to a good air circulation, you can usually keep your head cool. At the front, the C4 Pro Carbon has a lockable top and chin ventilation. By means of ducts in the inner shell, these air inlets 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 the airflow and the visor extends far to the rear to prevent turbulence at the visor mounting. The C4 Pro Carbon is standardly equipped with a transparent visor made of a scratch-resistant material. The Pinlock 120® lens is no problem at all. Thanks to the Microlock system the visor can be replaced easily and without tools 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-hand side of the helmet. Spectacle-wearers in particular will find the cutouts a joy. 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 pleasant chin strap is equipped with the by Schuberth developed A.R.O.S. system. This ensures that in case of impact, the helmet cannot roll off the back of the head, if the chinstrap is closed correctly. In addition, this also minimizes the risk of contact between the chin part of the helmet and the rider's chin and/or neck.
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 incorporated in the helmet: a microphone, a set of speakers, the wiring and an antenna. The SC1 module can be purchased separately, and only needs to be placed in the provided notches. ‘Plug-and-Play', is what it is called and that's what it comes down to. Especially because the microphones got a new, better position and that 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:
- Do you dread disassembling 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.
