Gear Review Scorpion EXO AT950 Helmet

[@mexploretravel7213]

Hi Tim - thanks for your videos - keep em up !!! I've since purchased 4 (yes, four!!) AT950 Scorpion helmets - I absolutely love them - obviously (one is for my girlfriend). One white for night rides, two high viz for touring, one blue for my GS R1200. I totally agree the opening helmet is very nice for low speeds / quick stops / gas fill ups. The sun visor is very nice and comforting here in Mexico. The inside padding just fits my head perfectly snug and it's good quality / easy to remove and re-install. I use a PackTalk Bold with my plug-in SkullCandy Smokin 2 or Marsno M2 earbuds so the helmet with my set up is very quiet. I enjoy the spacing in front of my mouth which helps venting and prevents fog / humidity on my glasses. Mechanisms work great. Field of view is the best of all my helmets. Overall super comfortable. I do wish this helmet has the ECE approved rating. I add reflective tape on the back too. Don't forget your safety gear bud. I've never used this helmet with goggles but will do soon (more complicated with glasses). I really enjoy your video's very much, as I share your great adventure attitude. Thumbs up !!! Mark.

[@motoproponent]

Hey Tim. I’ve had this helmet for nearly two years. I’m a daily Bay Area motorcycle commuter. My only complaint was the attachment to the peak. The little bolts would just vibrate out and my visor would just come off while I was riding. It took two sets of replacements before I got the new version with the plastic washers and the “wavy” square washers that keep tension on the bolt and keep them from backing out. Overall I’m really happy though. Great value for that price point.

[@kleitosaliagas5668]

motoproponent Just got back from about a 500 km trip and half way through I noticed the left bolt was gone and the peak was wobbling. Had to remove both the peak and the visor for the las 200 km which was no fun :(

[@deansimpson1381]

@@kleitosaliagas5668 If you didn't use the dirt bike peak visor, would you be worrying about the loss of these bolts?

[@bluewker]

Can you just loctite the bolts in place after you think you've figured out the adjustment setting?

[@lordvader2060]

Thanks Tim. I am needing a new helmet and your review sealed the deal.

[@baltsosser]

Ear plugs like the ones you can get from Big Ears Inc really cut down on the road noise while still allowing you to hear the motor, and music/ intercom easily. I was not a fan of wearing any hearing protection, but after a while I had to go the other way, and do something about it before I did some damage that was permanent. I went down to South Carolina to get fitted and did a review for them. After wearing them a while, I would hearing protection is far more necessary that I originally gave it credit for. Pretty solid review on the helmet. I like the idea of a modular helmet I can still add the Bluetooth comm gear. I rode for years without music, but after I added the Sena 20S I got spoiled in a hurry. Keep up the good work.

[@FTAAdventures]

Thanks for the comment! I will check out those ear plugs, I am looking for something a little more than just the squishy cheap-o ones so that might be just what I am looking for. Thanks again, ride safe!

[@baltsosser]

I've found them comfortable for wear while riding, and useful for other stuff like shooting at the range and running a chain saw.

[@erikwhitley413]

Hey Tim... I got this helmet, too! I found that once you go modular, it's hard to go back to a standard full face (especially if you have a beard!). It is a bit noisy, but that seems to be common in modulars. Lost my screw once on the freeway, and couldn't find a replacement anywhere. I called Scorpion and they sent me a replacement set for free! I love the visibility this thing provides. And finally, I usually ride without the peak visor... easier on my neck bone. To me, this is a great value.

[@FTAAdventures]

Hey Erik! It's a great helmet. The modular aspect is wonderful. That is great to know about Scorpions factory support! That is great they sent you what you needed. Thanks for the comment! Ride safe!

[@norsefalconer]

Since you primarily ride in Sunny/Hot climates, I'm surprised you went with a dark color. You really should do a piece on the ratings and what they mean. I've done some research, and I found it interesting to learn the differences between DOT, Snell, ECE and Sharp.

[@cschueren]

Got the Schuberth E1 for $550 on sale. My son has this helmet which was a little over $300 local. Similar helmets, and I would probably get one over the Schuberth if I had to do over again.

[@BigRigRich]

Wondering your thoughts about this helmet after 3 years? Would you buy it again?

[@freedomrider2157]

Good review, Tim. My first helmet I ever owned was modular & it was extremely comfortable visor open OR closed, rsmf...

[@lukash7659]

I have the same! In Europe they sell it as Scorpion ADX-1. I have bought mine in December '17 and now I have done 17.000km or 10.000 miles with it. Temperature between 1°C and 41°C, rain, hail, storm. I don't use the Shield. I do not wear earplugs. I Can't complain anything.

[@DavidSmith-dz5wv]

Hi Tim, Great video as usual. I've been riding with this helmet for awhile now, Overall I like it, the ventilation is great even here in AZ. visibility is good and the drop down sun visor works very well. the only issue I have is it's a little noisy at hiway speeds removing the peak visor helps a little but I feel the benefit of having the shade is more important. Having a giant Charlie Brown head limits a lot of choices for me in helmets but overall im very happy with this unit

[@FTAAdventures]

Thanks David! It is a great helmet, with its flaws of course.

[@HonorableMrRager]

good video, very informative. i already ordered mine before watching. looking forward to using it

[@andrewtreloar7389]

Great review, thanks for sharing! It sure is the Swiss Army knife or helmets, and worthy of consideration. I ride an XD4, so I can appreciate the comments with regards to comparing the helmets being a trifle unfair!

[@ridewithgnr2116]

I wish I never threw away my old Scorpion EXO visor! Errr! Never thought I would use it, but after buying the V Strom..... Who knew. Nice review and I am a huge fan of the Modular, so this will likely be my next Helmet purchase. My old Scorpion chin latch broke after a month, but was quickly replaced and then lasted 7 years. It was heavy and bulky but a great helmet with earplugs!

[@FTAAdventures]

They are great helmets. Glad to hear that when you had a warranty issue with yours that it was taken care of quickly. That is good to know. Thanks for the comment.

[@findingneutral]

Awesome tutorial. Learned a lot about the safety categories. Thanks

[@cecilhumphries921]

Kern is so amazing! My family would go up there all the time!

[@UHDStudio]

Great review. Bought the same yesterday, very happy so far :)

[@Jamilsiddique]

Good introduction to adventure flip tops. Always wondered how well they are received.

[@FTAAdventures]

Thank you! I was curious too, I am impressed though.

[@beastmodemoto793]

How do you feel about this one Vs the Bell mx9, which one is best u think. I do know that Bell aint a modular. But anyways

[@orangelion03]

Did you happen to check out Limestone Campground? Probably the best campground along that stretch of the Kern. Shady and with a river beach that cant be beat! The river slows there and broadens into a big pool. Was there last month and trout were snapping flies a few feet from shore. How about Dome Rock?

[@MrBallisticsports]

Good review of the helmet I did laugh when you said safety is a priority for you , while watching you ride in a t-shirt while saying that

[@winduncan9818]

Really like your channel, used a couple links when buying stuff to try to support it. I have put probably 8k miles on my 2 AT-950's(About half in Thailand and half in California). I think it's a great value. A couple things to note, the finish kinda sucks. The high vis totally fades in a month of every day use. Scorpion did replace my first one hassle free(why I have had 2 of them). Second one now faded same as first. It also scratches really easily. It also fogs up worse than other helmets I have had. Be it rain and humidity in Thailand or cold and snowy in California it fogs up. Same fit as my old Scorpion EXO-400. It's a lot quieter than the EXO-400 but I still wear ear plugs. I would buy it again but would go for a flat color and stay away from the high vis.

[@desitrackriders3381]

My first modular helmet and its great ..

[@krzysiumisiu80]

Hi, i have a question exo at950 or Bell mx 9, Which one would you choose? And which one do you think is quieter?

[@kurtg68o1]

good video, I watched a few bad ones on this helmet, best so far. thumbs up.

[@MrHeepspo]

Curious about goggle fitment.... which/how many brands...

[@robertpeek3657]

Thanks from Laguna de Apoyo, Nicaragua ! Ciao, Robert !

[@matthewcairns730]

Good video - good info - but weres ur safety gear mate - ??

[@narrator-timothymckean]

Tim, being largely a desert rider do you find that the color choice affects the heat absorption or reflection at all? I'm also in Phoenix.

[@albertosbrolla8424]

Thanks for the review!👍

[@FTAAdventures]

Thanks again Alberto, ride safe!!

[@ToddBryantsr]

I just picked this up for $139. It's solid

[@bljustice]

I ride a 950 every day. Love it. Great bucket.

[@FTAAdventures]

I agree, been very happy with it so far. Ride safe!

[@bsattel]

I got 2 of these for my son and I. The medium put pressure points at the top sides of my sons head. I wear a small and had no issues with comfort. I too wear sunglasses, not only when I ride, but 98% of the time everywhere, even indoors when the lights are bright. The only thing I didn’t like, which is not a fault of the helmet, is in relation to where my instrument cluster is located and the bottom of the drop down visor, I have to exaggerate my head tilt forward to see the cluster. My line of vision to the instrument cluster is perfectly in line with the bottom of the drop down visor. Other than that these helmets did great, and my son didn’t really start to feel discomfort until the last couple of our 9 day, 1500 mile ride of the east side of the TAT.

[@reymarkse5403]

Great reviews thanks for the info

[@magnmfc]

Anyone know if it has ear holes inside to put headphones? Thanks

[@jameswalt6514]

Yes, it does.

[@jeffmorrissey9562]

I just installed a SENA 10S unit in mine, it has nice big ear holes for speakers.

[@pmfilmsUK]

Very informative and good review. Thanks.

[@bgrides2108]

Nice review. Well covered. Have you tried to attach a gopro to it?

[@lomparti]

Is that the black anthracite version you got there?

[@FTAAdventures]

It is

[@yv6eda]

Great review! I'm definitely going to looking for it. But I need to look locally in order to try it. I'm a XXL/XL size and never find the right one by reference. Thanks Tim!

[@nev357]

yv6eda try the Shoei Neotec 2. I purchased the XXL but found I needed the XL insert. Shoei are simply the best helmet made. Superb quality and sure you pay slightly more but they are extremely well made, comfort is second to non and very quiet.

[@jjl46507]

How do you set up a modular helmet to motovlog with? Using a GoPro it appears I’ll need 2 mics. One for the Sena BT unit and one for the GP.

[@michaelsupple6081]

Very thorough review. One question. Can the peak visor be set at different angles/height or is there one default setting. I love modular helmets but I want one with a peak visor for blocking the late day sun Does it work well for that. The Schubert E1 Adventure peak is adjustable. Thanks.

[@grendelprime166]

This is a decent helmet. My Main complaint is the foam compresses to your headshape and ends up getting loose over time. I don't wear this helmet often, I have a variety of lids to choose from and find it disappointing that with very few hours of riding, my Scorpion is just a wee bit loose, compared to when I purchased it and it felt a little too tight.

[@kevingallagher3]

I agree Tim, I love mine.

[@FTAAdventures]

Thanks!

[@Tetsaraku]

For some reason this is the only helmet I own that really puts pressure on my jaws. I tried 'riding it out' but as soon as I close the chin bar, I get really uncomfortable. No similar issues with any Arai, Shoei or Schuberth lids I have.

[@Rocknrebel]

They sell smaller cheek pads to help with this.

[@SailingSabaiSabai]

Love this helmet, bought mine about a year and a half ago, is a bit stuffy when not moving though.

[@ehabtharwat4762]

I was planning to buy the Arai XD4, and as you have one before , dose Arai it deserve its price , or the scorpion is good and i don't have to pay this expensive price on Arai , hope to get details comparison between them to help me take the decision, thanks

[@reecewatkins3389]

Hey just wondering what'd you decide and how do you like it

[@davidrichards6718]

the safety rating in europe states that this helmet is not to be used with the face protection in the up position. I have been looking at this helmet as I already have a scorpion (getting a bit old), but my old helmet is certified to use open or closed. Hoping this model will have more space around my mouth as it's hot here most of the time and ventilation is a priority

[@HootmonHarry]

See if there is a Euro equivalent.. My wife bought a Scorpion Covert (1/2, 3/4, face mask convertible). I wound up buying the Euro equivalent "the Combat". In the Euro helmet you can not convert it to a half helmet (the lower does not detach), hence the higher euro standard met.. The Euro model also comes with a nice Rachet strap instead of the cumbersome double D ring.. I found that Scorpion USA knew nothing about the Euro Scorpions, so the seem to be more independent of each other.. So, you may have to contact Scorpion in Europe to get your questions answered

[@RoadKing05FLHR]

They are not good to ride open for safety reasons. That's just the nature of motorcycle helmets design. You don't want to wreck and have that twist your head off. But also the wind pulling on your head makes it not good also. It is for when you stop at a redlight or toll booth to talk to someone. Drink some water, eat something, etc. Very handy to have.

[@LeoMaximus2008]

Which Bluetooth system did you use, and how did it work with the modular set up? I just bought one of these and the dealer is suggesting an open face set up? Thanks

[@FTAAdventures]

I am currently using the Sena 20S. It's been great. The open face would be lighter but I would want the ability to close the helmet in the rain

[@randyking9138]

I wear prescription glasses and I haven't found a helmet yet (except half helmet) that doesn't drive the arms into my head. Gets painful after about 15 min.

[@DavidSchroeder42]

I also wear prescription glass, and have this helmet. I've worn it for extended periods of time (20+hrs on a couple of occasions) and not had a problem from the glasses. Probably depends on the glasses, but it does have cutouts in the cheek pads for them that seam to work well.

[@randyking9138]

@@DavidSchroeder42 good to know. It gets expensive buying helmets and finding you can't wear them. Thanks for the input.

[@grendelprime166]

I wear prescription glasses. I bring my helmet to the optometrist and try different frames that fit well with the helmet. I usually end up purchasing Wiley X Glasses because the frame arms are designed to slip in a helmet.

[@randyking9138]

@@grendelprime166 Thanks I will give that a try

[@tallboy2234]

Good review. A helmet I am considering. 👌

[@FTAAdventures]

Thanks! I have been happy with it so far. Ride safe!

[@whiskeythrottleracing]

Nice review! I have the same helmet and think it's more comfortable than the Shoei Neotec.

[@Tac.Outdoors]

Awesome review man! I have a Honda grom max speed about 60mph! For the $300 price point what’s better you guys think ICON airflite or this one ??? Choices .....

[@SmallADVentures1973]

Great review! I love the look of that helmet (mmuch better than I like the look of my nearly-melted-off-mattblack-rubber-coated-Vega helmet,LOL,it looks pitiful now xD),and my bike already looks like a Bat Bike anyways (it was a very low miles when I got it 1 owner 2013 CB500X in matte black) so it'd go well with that too,LOL :p Enjoyed the video,brother,thanks for the info on it,I may look into it when I replace mine next season :)

[@sorenhempel7052]

Great review. I have reed that this helmet is good for people that use prescription glasses, is this true?

[@FTAAdventures]

Works great for sunglasses so I would think so.

[@PM-of3fn]

Many of the reviews I see say to size up. Did you do that too?

[@FTAAdventures]

I didn't have that issue, might be a head shape thing. Different brands are different sizes for me, but on average I am a medium, and that is what fit me with this one. Good luck!

[@PM-of3fn]

@@FTAAdventures thanks for your reply!

[@carls.2071]

Noticed you wearing the COOL OUT T-shirt during your helmet review. My local motorcycle gear shop is currently selling COOL OUT products at a reduced price. What are your thoughts on their products. I’m in the process of buying gear and clothing for up coming motorcycle trips this fall and next summer. Would it be worth stocking up on HEAT OUT/COOL OUT products at sale prices? CJSpinn, San Jose, Ca

[@dirtbikes_and_drones]

Carl Sims cycle gear ALWAYS lists them as on sale.

[@FTAAdventures]

I think they are well worth the investment. I would recommend buying them especially if they are on sale. Ride safe!

[@JuanPabloGallego1969]

great video... is the peak adjustable? how is the ventilation in hot days? it seems that there is not much flow exhausts in the back of the helment and that concerns me as i am looking for an adveture type to do some off roading

[@trey631]

Great review Tim. I've worn just about every style of helmet and really do like the advantages of a modular. I have a Bell Revolver EVO, but the sizing just isn't quite right, so I get headaches from it. I'm in a full face now and boy is it comfortable, but I miss the conveniences offered in a modular.

[@lee53597]

Regret not taking earplugs...? You should always be riding with plugs. I don't consider that an optional riding gear item. You're risking your hearing with long term riding.

[@imcheaperthanyou9805]

What????

[@nev357]

I wear a Shoei Neotec 2 on long rides. Extremely quiet and coupled with the purpose inbuilt Sena unit is superb. I don't need ear plugs as the engine noise is very much a background murmur. I wear a basic DOT helmet similar to the Scorpion EXO when riding in traffic so I can hear my surroundings better.

[@FTAAdventures]

Interesting idea to wear the louder helmet in traffic to hear more of your surrounding, I like that idea. It is nice on a long trip to have a quiet helmet, my Arai is pretty great for that so there is definitely a value in that. Thanks for the comment.

[@TazmanianDevil-y8z]

This guy kinda sounds like Tyler Phiny pro cyclist. Great review

[@grimreapercmn4u]

This is a great helmet. However, just realize it is loud at highway speeds. I'm pretty disappointed. My Arai which is a lot older is way quieter. However, of you do a lot of city driving, this helmet has many features that make it worth the buy.

[@WRW9751]

I own Two AT’s until someone shows me a better deal I’m all over them! I use SENA 30’s with earbuds.

[@SandraOrtmann1976]

I just got this exact version. Very comfortable. I also like the orange graphic one a lot. But already having red and gold in the mix, it would have become a little too colourful. So the matte black it is. I had a modular helmet before, as I wear glasses. It just is a little more comfortable to put your glasses precisely than with a normal bucket. But the adventure style just fits my Yam XT 600 better than a normal modular.

[@Tashyncho-Sapa]

exo-tech or this one is better

[@jackrattle7005]

#everywhereon2wheels Hey bud! I love this helmet. Bought it a couple months ago! I have the same color.

[@FTAAdventures]

It's a great helmet, I should've bought one a while ago! Nice choice on the color 👌

[@jimtisdale6156]

I have one and have really liked it for price and versatility. Does fit tight at the jaw area.

[@FTAAdventures]

Always good to hear other people are happy with gear I am recommending. Mine was a bit tight too.

[@malvinacarabas5768]

" Safety is a priority for me …" - and you`re riding in a T-short , without even elbow guards ? Nice review though .

[@OuterHeavenNET]

Good luck buying one. They are sold out all over the place right now -_-

[@jameswalt6514]

I wish SHARP would rate this thing. Scorpion is very hit and miss on safety model by model.

[@njb126]

Im not taking helmet advice from someone who is riding a motorcycle in a t-shirt.

[@lynnkramer1211]

I watch all your videos and I agree with most of your advice, but not on these modular helmets., They just are not as safe as a full face helmet. I can understand why you wouldn't want to compare this helmet with an Aria helmet. Even a Bell Qualifier is better. DOT is not enforced and is no assurance of quality or effectiveness in protecting the wearer. Snell is the only rating that is actually tested and meets safety standards. I have more than a $5 brain, so I don't trust a DOT $5 helmet.

[@X85283]

SNELL refuses to test modular helmets. That doesn't mean modular won't pass. Shoei swears their modular exceeds SNELL testing (which they understand really well and obviously have the capability of doing unofficially internally), but SNELL won't test them. This isn't a $5 DOT pudding bowl. It carries an ECE rating in the EU-distributed model. The idea that a modular is always less safe than a full face is an old concept that is not necessarily true any more. The latch mechanisms and the chin pieces on most modern ones are just as strong as on a full face - in other words if you are breaking the front of the helmet you are probably dead either way in either helmet.