Summary

• ILM gives reasonably priced helmets with built-in Bluetooth tech and security certifications for numerous actions.
• Despite a barely off match and a few discomfort points, ILM-953Pro is an economical helmet with options akin to rivals.
• The ILM-953Pro could also be an acceptable selection for these needing a number of helmets with Bluetooth at a cheaper price level.

A helmet that’s not solely modular but in addition has integrated Bluetooth technology, in addition to all the traditional commonplace options for a low price, sounds nearly too good to be true. However, with ILM, this concept has grow to be a actuality. The firm established a North American workplace in 2013 and shortly grew to become one of many main manufacturers in on-line helmet gross sales. The firm makes use of Asian manufacturing with a U.S. gross sales workforce to instill a way of trustworthiness, in addition to a formidable concentrate on safety standards, together with certifications from DOT, ECE, SG, CCC, and SNELL.

ILM gives helmets for numerous makes use of, together with each on and off-road motorcycles, in addition to illuminated scooter helmets, snowboarding, skateboarding, bicycling, and extra. It additionally carries a modest quantity of using gear and equipment, all provided at extraordinarily affordable costs. In this tried and examined evaluate, we’ll have a look at the ILM-953Pro, dissecting its options, consolation, and efficiency to current a complete overview for riders searching for the proper mix of expertise and security.

ILM-953Pro Modular Motorcycle Helmet First Impression

At first look, the helmet seems to have some respectable branding, generally disregarded within the extra cheap helmet lineup, with the model and its trademark printed on the helmet sleeve. Upon additional inspection, the helmet has a bit extra heft than anticipated from its marketed weight and the communication controls on the aspect are branded as FreedConn. Having beforehand examined a FreedConn helmet, this was an assumed competitor; nevertheless, it seems that a doable try to re-brand and promote the producer’s product to a broader American market could be happening right here.

FreedConn additionally sells a seemingly an identical helmet with a barely totally different communication gadget design for fairly a bit cheaper on Amazon, but it surely’s price noting that the ILM model is available in a number of colours. For ILM’s sake, we can even assume that the 953Pro mannequin underwent extra stringent testing rules to fulfill the U.S. market requirements, contemplating its DOT certification, however the actual product variations are questionable.

Overall, the helmet seems like most different helmets in its class; the design seems aerodynamic and has all of the vents and devices you can want. The chin flap is quite massive, protecting fairly a little bit of floor space to stop wind from getting into the helmet, and the modular launch button, whereas clunky, works as marketed. Despite the questionable supply, all that really matters in a motorcycle helmet is consolation and security, so let’s strive it on and go for a experience.

How It Feels When Riding

Sliding the helmet on in its closed modular place is uncomfortable, particularly when you’ve got longer hair. The chin flap is quite massive, making a small gap to slip your head into, however, happily, this may be shortly remedied by lifting your entire chin guard earlier than placing it on. The padding across the face feels tight however comfy sufficient, however sadly, after carrying it for about 5 minutes, there are two strain factors on the prime of the helmet which are arduous and fairly annoying. For a fast jaunt, it’s okay, however anybody who has worn a helmet for hours at a time is aware of a wierd sensation will amplify and drive the rider to insanity til their subsequent cease.

The modular half can also be a weak level, even when it helps to take the helmet on or off, in addition to talk at a pink mild. If you determine to experience anyplace with it lifted, the entire helmet shifts again. A good friend stated I appeared like a 5-year-old on the BMX observe together with his helmet strap unfastened and the helmet uselessly sitting on the again of my head. That stated, using with the helmet closed does block quite a lot of wind with the massive chin flap and capabilities as anticipated.

Visor

The helmet comes with a transparent visor with a centered gripping level, which makes it simple to seek out and transfer up or down. It additionally comes with an inside shade visor for the solar that strikes up and down by way of a lever on the aspect of the helmet simply behind the communication controls. This would possibly want some getting used to because the controls are simple to seize and can interrupt a few of the Bluetooth capabilities by accident.

Communication System

As talked about, the controls on the communication system are very simple to control. This is also thought of a weak level on the helmet as a drop on the correct spot would probably snap the controls off; nevertheless, this wasn’t examined. The battery for the gadget is identical as different FreedConn merchandise, with quite a lot of tiny fragile-looking pins, and plugging within the battery might probably be an issue, as ILM states: “Please do not forcibly plug the chord completely into the charging port, save a little space for better user experience.”

Once put in and charged, the Bluetooth works, albeit too tinny sounding to actually get pleasure from music; when paired with one other helmet, the voice could be heard properly sufficient at velocity. ILM advertises that with the 953Pro, its expertise could be paired with as much as six to eight units, and its commonplace model will solely pair with two to a few. We couldn’t take a look at this function, but it surely did, maybe unsurprisingly, pair simply with a FreedConn helmet. This would possibly point out the distinction between the virtually an identical modular helmet FreedConn advertises on Amazon.

Fit, Comfort, And Sizing Recommendation

While the highest of the helmet would possibly introduce slight strain factors, probably making it really feel heavier, the ILM-953Pro does have a totally washable microfiber lining and adjustable vents for cleanliness and temperature management. The strap makes use of a quick-release expertise that simply attaches and adjusts to your dimension and luxury. This helmet additionally runs one dimension smaller as a result of included Bluetooth module, so it’s necessary to measure earlier than buying to seek out what’s going to fit your head dimension.

ILM-953Pro Modular Motorcycle Helmet Vs The Competition

ILM-953Pro Vs BILT Nomad

• ILM-953Pro Modular Motorcycle Helmet

  The ILM-953Pro Modular bike helmet options built-in Bluetooth expertise with all the trendy helmet capabilities at an reasonably priced value. The sizing is barely off, and the general consolation of the helmet is insufficient. It is ready to assist a gaggle of as much as eight helmets with communication, however other than that, it isn’t the least costly choice out there in the marketplace for the standard.

  Size Range

  S-XXL

  Shape

  Oval

  Material Type

  Glass strengthened plastic expanded polystyrene (EPS) Fiberglass

  Model Number

  ‎953Pro-MB-S

  Weight

  4.4 lbs

  Price Range

  $269.99

  Certifications

  DOT Certified

• BILT Nomad Modular

  Expert Opinion: The light-weight modular design makes the BILT Nomad comfy to put on and gives a average quantity of noise dampening. The quick-release push button chin-bar operation makes it simple to eat or take a drink with out eradicating the helmet.

  Brand

  BILT

  Size Range

  2XS – 5XL

  Shape

  Oval

  Material Type

  Injection molded alloy composite

  Model Number

  BLH507

  Weight

  3.88 lbs

  Price Range

  $159.99

  Certifications

  DOT

The BILT Nomad Modular helmet could lack the technological advances of a pre-integrated Bluetooth communications system, but it surely makes up for that with its sizing and luxury. BILT is a trusted model that delivers a protected helmet at an especially reasonably priced value. It’s price mentioning that it’s doubtless doable so as to add a comm system to the BILT helmet and nonetheless break even or get monetary savings when in comparison with the value of the ILM-953Pro Modular Motorcycle Helmet.

ILM-953Pro Vs Shoei NTC2 BLK 2 SNL NEOTEC II

• ILM-953Pro Modular Motorcycle Helmet

  The ILM-953Pro Modular bike helmet options built-in Bluetooth expertise with all the trendy helmet capabilities at an reasonably priced value. The sizing is barely off, and the general consolation of the helmet is insufficient. It is ready to assist a gaggle of as much as eight helmets with communication, however other than that, it isn’t the least costly choice out there in the marketplace for the standard.

  Size Range

  S-XXL

  Shape

  Oval

  Material Type

  Glass strengthened plastic expanded polystyrene (EPS) Fiberglass

  Model Number

  ‎953Pro-MB-S

  Weight

  4.4 lbs

  Price Range

  $269.99

  Certifications

  DOT Certified

• Shoei Helmets NTC2 BLK 2 SNL NEOTEC II

  The Shoei Helmets NTC2 BLK 2 SNL NEOTEC II is a state-of-the-art bike helmet designed for the trendy rider who calls for each fashion and performance. Crafted with Shoei’s signature consideration to element, this helmet encompasses a modern black design that exudes sophistication. Its superior aerodynamic shell is constructed from high-quality supplies, making certain sturdiness and optimum safety. The NEOTEC II is supplied with an progressive flip-up face defend and an built-in solar visor, providing versatility for numerous using situations. The inside is plush, moisture-wicking, and simply detachable for cleansing. With its superior air flow system, this helmet supplies glorious airflow, protecting you comfy on lengthy rides. Meeting SNL security requirements, the NTC2 BLK 2 is the epitome of engineering excellence, making it a best choice for discerning motorcyclists.

  Brand

  Shoei Helmets

  Size Range

  XS-XXL

  Shape

  Oval

  Material Type

  Carbon Fiber

  Model Number

  ‎0116-0105-04

  Weight

  5.90 LBS

  Price Range

  $1,099 – $1,251

  Certifications

  DOT

If value have been no object, the Shoei Helmets NTC2 BLK 2 SNL NEOTEC II is a transparent winner. Shoei gives a Bluetooth communication system particularly designed to suit the helmet, and the standard is unmatched by the ILM-953Pro Modular Motorcycle Helmet. Of course, at $1000 or extra additional, that is fairly the funding. However, the argument may very well be made that you simply should not put a price ticket in your head. It can be stated {that a} extra reasonably priced modular Bluetooth helmet may very well be higher to begin with to ensure that the rider to grasp their wants higher, however any of the Shoei NEOTEC II helmets would absolutely not disappoint.

Is The ILM-953Pro The Right Helmet For You?

Since ILM does have an workplace stationed in La Mesa, California, you would possibly discover it simpler to contact them ought to you could have any questions or considerations in regards to the product, which is a constructive. It’s additionally tempting to purchase this helmet for your self and some of your folks to mess around with whereas nonetheless being cheaper than the price of a single top-of-the-line helmet with related options; simply don’t maintain your breath for the overwhelming gratitude after they strive it on. The helmet truthfully ticks all of the containers other than consolation, however for long-term use, it’s arduous to get previous the overwhelming variety of flaws.

When contemplating buying, have a transparent concept about what will probably be used for. If you desperately want eight helmets with modular and Bluetooth capabilities on the lowest value level, this helmet may very well be a possible candidate. That stated, if it is simply you and a few mates, it’s arduous to dismiss the FreedConn helmet that seems to be the identical with a $20 off coupon on the time of this evaluate, which can prevent roughly $90. In my humble opinion, move on this helmet until it’s completely your solely choice.