Tested: Shark Ridill motorcycle helmet review

Date reviewed: July 2018 | Tested by: BikeSocial Test Team | Price: From £119.99| www.nevis.uk.com

The Shark Ridil is an ACU Gold-approved full-face helmet priced at £119.99 for black or white and £139.99 for graphics. As a member of the BikeSocial Test Team and a motorcycle instructor at 1on1 Rider Training, Jon Mansfield has been using this lid for several months on his Kawasaki ZZ-R1100…

Outer shell

The polycarbonate shell of this ‘Threezy Mat KWA’ model has sharp graphics with a matt finish. Overall it looks good, but edging towards the higher price of budget lids, it’s not the most luxurious finish when put up against some of the competition.

Weight

At 1511g for this large model, the Shark is a fairly lightweight lid, and certainly won’t be tiring on the neck even after a full day’s riding.

Ventilation

The top of the lid carries two independently closeable vents, with another on the chin. There are no exhaust ports on the rear, and while the vents are easy to use with gloves on, you can’t feel much difference in air flow, though with no chin skirt, this is quite an airy lid – something to note if riding in the winter.

Visor

You can’t crack the visor just open for increased airflow, so need to use the first stage of the six-position ratchet, which is a bit harsh and clunky, but positive in operation.

There’s a thumb tab for opening on the left – I’d prefer one on the right too, or in the centre, as this makes life a bit easier when using your right hand if holding the clutch in.

Removing the visor for cleaning is very simple – just press the button on either side and it slides out. A Pinlock anti-fog insert can be fitted, but one isn’t supplied.

In heavy rain, the Shark seals well, not allowing any water to run down from the top.

The drop-down sun shield is operated by a slider on the top of the helmet, so can be set at any position you want.

Lining

The lining is fairly easy to remove and refit, so you won’t have any problems if you need to clean it after long-term use.

Fastening

The Shark has a micrometric ratchet fastener, which takes a couple of minutes to set up when you get it, but then offers a secure fit every time, even when wearing gloves.

Fit

It’s always important to try a helmet for yourself, as everyone’s head is a different shape, but I found the Ridill to fit very well, being extremely comfortable with no pressure points. Glasses fit into the helmet easily, and stay in the correct position on my face.

Noise

Noise levels seem average to other typical full-face helmets; it’s important to always wear earplugs, but this certainly doesn’t seem to be a noisy lid.

Conclusion

This is a good all-round helmet, with decent looks and functionality – I’d recommend a rider on a budget to consider it.