Urge Unveils the Down-o-Matic RR
It’s been a while since we’ve seen a new full-face lid from the crew at Urge, so it’s no surprise to see an update of their venerable classic, the Down-o-Matic. Made of a blend of fibreglass and natural linen, the update looks to improve on their past success, and adds a few new interesting features to boot. Full details after the break.
In 1994, François Gachet won the downhill Championship in Vail. 2009: Fabien Barel sweeps Maribor’s World Cup. 2010: Sabrina Jonnier wins the overall World Cup ranking for the 5th time.
Guess what the link is between these three legendary “Frenchies?” The three of them wore URGE helmets. The first one being a unique piece never marketed and the two others being known as the “Down-o-Matic.”
As Urge’s roots grow deep, we dedicated our knowledge from 2008 on, to engineer only MTB helmets.
The Urge Down-o-Matic RR in action.
Tech
Outer shell and EPS
Our DH helmet shares the same outer shell and EPS as our Archi Enduro model, except at the rear and regarding the chin guard.
Our outer shell in composite material is a unique blend of glass fibre (80%) and natural linen fibre (20%), mixed with a thermosetting resin.
This material is meticulously laid out in order to obtain a multi-axial fibre with outstanding benefits that guarantees a better spread and diffusion of the shock waves more on the helmet than on the skull.
Our performances during the crash tests highly exceeded the legal requirements for the different norms (CE 1078 – CPSC 1203 – AS/NZS 2063) and outperform ABS, traditional and carbon fibres shells.
No word on whether the hammer was used for impact testing.
The focus was put on the chin guard in particular to obtain the best ratio between rigidity and necessary distortion to absorb impacts. The essential wide opening of the chin guard, reinforced by a metallic grid, benefits from a high density polyurethane upper part. The obtaining of the ASTM F1952 norm, the only one that tests the chin guard, validates without a doubt the safety features highly sought-after.
The structure of the EPS has been designed to complete the unique features of the outer shell. Thanks to this exclusive combo, our helmet is lighter than the existing carbon top of the range models. We have created one of the safest helmets in this category with a weight around 1.050 kg making it among the lightest.
Visor
Made of polyethylene, it is able to deform in case of an impact and exceeds the requirements of the norms.
It is adjustable and fixed using aluminium screws.
Straps
Double D-rings to keep everything in place.
The Double D buckle is our choice for ergonomics, safety and comfort.
Ventilation
10 vents allow good ventilation in any circumstances, even at low speed. Ventilation on the front of the helmet is particularly unique, thanks to the specific design of the chin guard and to the wide frontal vents.
Fitting and Inner Padding
Helmet getting stinky? Peel the lining out in one piece and give it a wash. Your riding buddies will thank you.
The inner padding is entirely detachable and washable.
It was designed for optimal comfort and retention. The dual-density cheek pads were particularly elaborated to obtain a perfect fit especially around the jaw bones. The one-piece pad brings excellent fit and comfort.
The “bamboo treated” material used targets a triple efficiency: antibacterial, moisture wicking and hypoallergenic.
Goggle/Glasses Compatibility
The wide opening aims at guarantee an optimal field of view, compatible with all goggles on the market, even the wider ones. Lateral “gripping” pads and the ergonomics of the helmet allows for a perfect position of the goggle strap.
Brace Compatibility:
Our helmet is specifically designed to allow the rider to use a brace without inhibiting to the rider’s movement or comfort.
Finish
This helmet is a top of the range model that benefited of the highest attention to details in its design, to the smallest of details, and in particular in the choice of the high quality and durable materials.
Urge Down-o-Matic RR Specs
Certifications: CE 1078 – CPSC 1203 – AS/NZS 2063
Vents : 10
Materials: Fiberglass (80%) & Natural linen fiber (20%) construction
Double D buckle
Full Brace compatibility
Available in 5 sizes (XS,S,M,L,XL)
Polyethylene visor with vents
Weight : 1050 gr M size
Entirely detachable and washable inner padding
Includes a helmet bag
Retail price : 299€ / $299
Available end of May
Does the Down-o-Matic RR tickle your fancy?
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