While Firstgear is likely not the first name that comes to mind when helmet shopping, the company has carved a nice niche in other categories of the motorcycle gear market. Its flagship Kilimanjaro line of apparel has been a staple for adventure and touring riders for decades. The company currently offers three helmet models including the Vulcan, the Ajax, and the Hyperion Carbon. The Vulcan is a modular street helmet, while the Ajax and the Hyperion are ADV-style offerings. This review focuses on the Firstgear Hyperion Carbon Helmet.
The Hyperion Carbon is the top-tier model in Firstgear’s helmet lineup, and it uses a lightweight, full carbon-fiber shell. The carbon fiber is molded into two shell sizes that accommodate helmet sizes XS-2XL. The helmet features a dual-density EPS impact liner (manufactured in three sizes), a moisture-wicking removable liner, and emergency-release cheek pads. Our size-large test helmet weighed in at 3 lb, 6.2 oz on a certified scale.
The Hyperion is available in one motif – natural carbon gloss. The finish on the carbon fiber is a deep, rich, glossy clear coat that leaves the carbon fiber weave attractively visible. The ADV styling of the Hyperion integrates a removable visor or peak – a stylistic hallmark of ADV helmets. The non-adjustable peak is gloss black plastic rather than carbon fiber.
The stock clear faceshield adjusts in ratchet style through a range from closed to fully open, and it’s easily removable with the push of a button. The field of view on the Hyperion is expansive, and the shield is optionally correct. The helmet does not feature a flip-down internal sunscreen like Firstgear’s ABS-shelled Ajax does, but a dark smoke shield is a $29.95 option. Two plastic filler plates are included that cover the side gaps when the shield is removed, making the helmet convertible to accommodate goggles.
Ventilation is handled with four intake and four exhaust vents. The intake vents are adjustable and are relatively easy to operate with a gloved hand. While not overwhelming, the ventilation is noticeable and effective.
The Hyperion feels well-crafted right out of the box. The shell is rigid with very little flex. The interior lining is plush and comfortable. The pads in the chinbar area are a bit more snug than some other ADV helmets I’ve worn but not oppressively so. The helmet seems to be designed for intermediate-oval head shapes.
The chinstrap uses a traditional double-D to secure the helmet on the rider’s head. One nit to pick with the chinstrap is the cushion pads that are designed to make the straps comfortable under the jaw sometimes slip out of place.
The aerodynamics of an ADV helmet with a peak is always an important consideration. The Hyperion performs well in this area with only the normal lift action when the head is tilted back. Wind noise is moderate with no whistling or other strange noises at highway speeds.
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The Firstgear Hyperion Carbon Helmet meets both DOT and ECE 22.05 certification standards, is available in sizes XS-2XL, and retails for $349.95.
