AFX FX-41 Detailed Review
Summary
The new AFX FX-41 is a Dual Sport/Adventure helmet that AFX has added to its line. The FX-41 is not replacing the FX-39, and will be sold as an additional model. The new FX-41 looks aggressive and futuristic with its sharp lines and many vents. I have previously tested an FX-39 and was hopeful AFX had worked out the kinks of the older helmet.
The Company
AFX is a helmet company that operates out of both California and London. AFX has a unique structure where they only sell to one distributor per country. The FX-41 is manufactured in Taiwan by THH. AFX sells many helmets manufactured by THH in both US and Europe markets.
Construction, Safety, and Options
AFX FX-41 Liner
AFX says this helmet is constructed using an advanced lightweight composite poly-alloy. The weight of the helmet is about on par with other helmets at this price point. The chin strap is a quick release ratcheting system rather than a double d ring. The helmet liner and cheek pads are made with a hypo-allergenic and antimicrobial nylon, all of which are removable and washable. The helmet is DOT and ECE safety rated. There is no SNELL rating on this helmet.
The Shield can be removed without removing the peak. Once the shield is removed goggles can be worn for dusty conditions. There is also a drop down tinted shield that is actuated on the left side by a lever. This shield is light smoke, but there is an available dark smoke HERE. The FX-41 is available in seven color options including high visibility orange and yellow. We tested the "Safety Orange" solid color.
FX-39 vs FX-41
What makes the FX-41 different than the FX-39 is the manufacturer has moved the peak mount up and away from the shield mounting location. This makes the user able to remove the shield without removing the peak. With the shield removed goggles could be worn for offroad riding. Just like with the FX-39 the new helmet is great for hot weather riding with 17 vents. The FX-41 actually has almost double the amount of venting of the FX-39, and all the vents facing forward can be closed. The greatest step forward from the previous model is the drop down sun visor. On the FX-39 in order to change shields the peak needed to be removed or an awkward outside tinted overlay had to be used. On the FX-41 the shield in integrated into the body of the helmet.
What’s in the Box
The AFX FX-41 comes in a nice fitted AFX logo box wrapped in a fabric helmet bag. Included are instructions for care and warranty information.
Sizing and Fit
The new FX-41 feels slightly more round than your normal intermediate oval head shape, partially due to the recess for the tinted shield. This shape should fit the majority of riders and is quite comfortable for either round or intermediate oval head shapes. Sizing will run true to the size chart provided by the manufacturer and the helmet will feel quite snug when new. A few days in the helmet will break in the padding.
Fit and Finish
The fit and finish of this helmet was much better than I was expecting for a helmet in this price range. Our tested “Safety orange” helmet had excellent paint quality and is very bright. My only complaints were glue strings that were hanging from inside the glued on vents. The fit of each piece seemed good. There are some noticeable creaking sounds coming from the venting around the chin area when the helmet is flexed.
What Could Be Improved
The airflow of this helmet is both good and bad. This helmet flows a ton of air, not making it the best choice for winter riding. The airflow is especially noticeable around the rider’s face. Air comes around the small chin curtain and up, or around the shield. I feel like a larger chin curtain would help this area and help with wind noise.
The shield has a slightly noticeable line where the flat portion of the lens meets the sealing area of the lens. This causes some distortion when you look down but do not move your head. There is also no detent that holds the shield against the gasket. Air can leak around the shield at highway speeds. When I first started using the helmet I noticed that the shield would not go high enough to be out of sight. A quick adjustment of the peak and I was able to fully move the shield out of my vision.
Conclusion
This helmet looks great. The color is rich and bright and the sharp design draws attention. I was glad when I found no noticeable imperfections in the EPS liner, or loose pieces like I have found with some other helmets at this price point. I have really enjoyed the quick release strap system and find its much quicker and easier to do with gloves on.
I have been impressed with this helmet. For the price I think it is an excellent value. This helmet can be found on Amazon for around $125. Clicking the link below will take you directly to the Amazon page for each of the helmets mentioned in the article.
