I’m finally getting around to a helmet review of my new Nolan N104.

First off, I have to say what a HUGE improvement this helmet is over the Nolan N103. The shape alone was enough to draw me to spend the money for a new helmet as my N103 never did fit my head quite right. So, we’ll begin with the shape.

The Nolan N104 is designed for a more OVAL head shape. What this means is, if your head is more shaped like an egg then this is the helmet for you. I think the vast majority of people have a more round shaped head so much so that most helmet makers create their designs around the “round” model. Some helmets are considered “neutral” neither round nor oblong, but a sort of generic shape. This type of shape fits many riders and most of them do not have trouble with this fit, however some will find that their helmet creates “hot spots” or areas where the helmet rubs. This is from a poorly fitted helmet. My Nolan N103 was one of those. I had a constant hot spot on the front of my forehead, so much so that I finally stopped on day and trimmed off a bit of the padding, which I do NOT endorse. Not only will you ruin your helmet warranty, but you could also compromise the protection. I only made this drastic move when I had the headache from hell from the hot spot created by my poorly fitted Nolan on a long distance tour. In other words, it was trim it or buy a new helmet. Well, I did both!! My N104 is considered between neutral and narrow so it is perfectly designed for my head shape. Fast forward…

I read lots of reviews on the Nolan N104 before jumping in, due to the fit of my 103, however after reading that the design was created for a more oval shaped head, I ran out and tried one on and then proceeded to purchase it. I’m very glad that I did.

So, it fits me better but what are the other kudos? Here’s the short answer.
1) Outstanding visibility from a huge front eyeport.
2) Decent ventilation but seems to work best in clean air. I keep threatening to remove my windscreen that I don’t love anyway.
3) Locking mechanism keeping the helmet in the open position if an open-face helmet is desired. (I NEVER use it in this position)
4) Awesome DARK pull-down interior sun visor, although there are some complaints about the larger nose hole section. I have no issues with this.
5) Though this helmet is quieter than the earlier N103, I still use ear protection
6) Reasonable weight for a flip-face helmet.

You get all those features at a reasonable price too. Most of the N104s are sold between $300 and $450 depending upon where you shop. I found mine for an awesome deal so shop around.

Here are some pix of mine with its lovely black and white design.

Nice padding…

Helmet position lock and sun visor control

Fit on me…I bought a medium. I wore it in the store for a bit of time, however after a few months wear, I probably could have gone with a small. I also went by Nolan’s size chart, but if you like to have the chipmunk sort of squishy-face fit, I’d buy one size smaller than you think you’ll need.

Is it time to replace your “old” helmet? Has the safety of your helmet been compromised by a crash no matter how minor or old age. If so, go out and try on some new helmets and see what you like. I can’t recommend this Nolan N104 highly enough. It’s a great helmet! 😉