Italian flair: MCN picks the best AGV helmets on the market

When it comes to motorcycle protection, AGV helmets are considered to be up there with the best of them. Their lids protect the heads of many of the world’s leading racers, with both Valentino Rossi and Guy Martin sporting protective headgear from the iconic Italian brand.

AGV has been renowned for its innovation throughout its evolving range of helmets. So, we thought we’d bring together a selection of some of the best AGV helmets currently available.

Although AGV also makes open-face helmets for urban riding, our picks are all full-face road and sports helmets that you could use on the street or track – be it the occasional track day or in some cases, proper racing.

What to expect from AGV helmets:

As with many helmets, the AGV models below are aerodynamically shaped and are wind tunnel-tested. They are all Pinlock insert-ready for fog-free riding and most feature AGV’s integrated ventilation system.

There are several steps to AGV’s development testing of its helmets: durability, material, visual, paint resistance, and wind tunnel tests. Then having manufactured its helmet, AGV puts it through component testing too, for things like the visor and strap.

Some AGV helmets also have compatible integrated intercom systems that can be easily and subtly fitted so you can connect your phone or all sorts of other devices.

AGV helmets reflect the company’s passion and quality. We like this dedication.

MCN’s Top AGV Helmets:

Price: £149.99 (was £229.99)

A more budget-oriented price doesn't mean the K-3 SV scrimps on quality. It comes loaded with handy features that make this a great helmet for the price. It's also ready to take the AGV Share Bluetooth system and is also Pinlock-ready. The helmet is constructed from a thermoplastic resin shell which comes in two sizes. The K-3 SV also features an internal sun visor and a fully removable Dri-Lex microfiber lining.

Price: £629.99 (was £999.99)

Okay, so the Pista GP-RR is probably as much as you're ever going to spend on a lid. What you get for your money though is the créme de la créme of motorcycle helmets, with the very best technology currently available. It's constructed with an outer carbon fibre shell and has been developed at the very top level of motorcycle racing. It's also been aerodynamically designed to be comfortable and stable at high speed, helped by the addition of a large and wind-tunnel tested Biplano rear spoiler.

The thermoplastic shelled K1 S takes technology derived by AGV in MotoGP for a full ECE 22.06 certification. It's aerodynamically designed, with a distinctive integral spoiler that features twin exhaust ports for the ventilation system. Air intake is by five vents at the front, three on the brow and two on the chin bar. The 190° eyeport is protected by an Ultravision Pinlocked prepared visor and for comfort there's a soft removable and washable comfort liner.

The K6 S offers many of the same features as the range-leading Pista GP-RR, but in a slightly more affordable package. Its shell is constructed from carbon aramid and features an aerodynamic rear diffuser for extra stability at speed. The Integrated Ventilation System is optimally placed to take advantage of the best airflow through the helmet. The 2Dry lining comes with the pressure-free fit interior that's removable and also comes with a Pinlock insert for the visor that's ready to accept racing tear-offs.

Price: £233.89 (was £329.99)

The K5-S is one of AGV's mid-level sports helmets. It is a supremely comfortable helmet, being lightweight and not having stitching in irritating areas. It's made from the same carbon-fibreglass mix as some of the others here. You also benefit front AGV's Integrated Ventilation System, Pinlock visor insert, and compatible with AGV's Share system. It's extremely well-sorted and gives you the top-end benefits without the top-end price.

About the author: After qualifying as a mechanical engineer, Jim Blackstock began working on magazines in the early 1990s. He remains passionate about product testing to ensure readers know what products offer good value and why. He relishes torrential rain to see if riding kit keeps water out and an hour or two to tinker on a project bike in his workshop.

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