Italian helmet manufacturer X-lite has announced a new ‘supertouring’ helmet for 2019.
The new X-lite X-903 joins the range alongside X-lite’s X-803 sports helmet and there's also an X-lite X-903 Ultra-Carbon for those who want the classy looks of carbon.
The new helmet replaces two models – the X702GT and X661 – and promises a host of improvements over both, appearing to boast some genuine innovations.
The main upgrades are found on the visor, which has a new mounting method that has been patented by the Nolan group, which owns and manufactures X-lite helmets in its factory in Bergamo, Italy.
Photography: NOLAN/X-LITE
It’s called Magnetic Visor Assembly and seems deadly simple, with X-lite’s publicity material boasting the mounting system is ‘almost automatic’.
X-lite say the new mounting mechanism lifts and lowers the visor with such precision that it’s allowed the use of a larger Pinlock anti-mist insert, to help keep the seam out of the rider’s eyeline.
It also means a more secure seal around the outer edge, helping keep out rainwater and windflow, which also has the benefit of reducing noise.
X-lite say the shape has been honed to improve aerodynamics and further reduce wind noise, promising especially quiet performance from the new helmet.
Photography: NOLAN/X-LITE
The X-903 also has an adjustable interior, which allows the rider to alter the height to suit their head shape and the style of bike they’re riding.
The new system, which X-lite are calling LPC (Liner Positioning Control System), uses a strap mounted in the neckroll and the company has applied for a patent.
The new lid carries over many of the features for which X-lite have earned a reputation for quality. The comfort liner is 3D-sculpted to fit the face securely, there are channels that can be removed from the cheekpads to accommodate spectacle arms, and an N-Com Bluetooth system can be neatly integrated.
X-lite are making the helmet with either a Microlock or D-ring strap fastener, but only the latter will be available here in the UK as that’s the preference for the majority of British riders.
The X-903 is expected to become available in December 2018 in the UK and will be priced between £349.99 and £429.99 for the version with a composite-fibre shell, depending on the paintscheme. The fancier Ultra-Carbon version will range from £399.99 to £469.99, again depending on design.
The range will be available in sizes from XXS-XXXL and riders in the UK are expected to have a choice between 10 different colourschemes.