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The Vandal is Suomy's brand new entry-level helmet for 2007. It may be called entry-level, but it packed with many high-end features. We had the chance to evaluate the Vandal and our staff was had a lot of positive comments about this new model from Suomy.
The Vandal is a lightweight helmet similar to the Spec1R series. The shell is constructed from the same materials as the Spec1R and that allows it to weigh in at just under 3lbs 8ozs. Our helmet testers thought the Vandal felt just as good as the Spec1R or the Extreme while riding.
The comfort liner appears to be the same design as what is found in the more expensive Spec1R series. It felt every bit as comfortable on our heads as the more expensive Suomy models. The liner is fully removable and that allows for easy cleaning and also custom fitting. The top liner attached via firm snaps and the cheek pads are held in with pressure levers. Overall, the inner liner is top-notch and feel great while on your head. The fit is best described as moderately round. Most customers say they like the fit of the Vandal and our helmet testing staff agrees.
The Vandal is a fairly good venting helmet. It seemed to perform very close to the Spec1R in overall airflow. We did notice that the Vandal did seem slightly quieter than the Spec1R and that is a nice feature. The air intake design appears to lessen the higher pitched sound levels at speed. Our testers liked that the Vandal vented as well as the Spec1R without all the noise.
The visor removal system works well too. Suomy got away from the cover plate design with the Vandal and so far we like it. No longer do we have to worry about losing cover plates with his helmet. The visor removal was straight forward and there wasn't much to figure out. We think the design is solid and anything that makes visor changes easier is a definite plus. The visors are scratch-proof and anti-fog coated. We tested the Vandal's visor on some cold mornings and the anti-fog seemed to perform well.
The Vandal seems to be a less-expensive version of the Spec1R helmet. Suomy has always offered great helmets, but now they offer a helmet that performs within reach of the race models and comes at an attainable price for the daily rider. We like the features and quality of the Vandal and we think it is a great helmet value.
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