Nolan N60-6 Review: Your Next Motorcycle Helmet?Nolan N60-6 Review: Your Next Motorcycle Helmet? Hey everyone, and welcome back! Today, we’re diving deep into a topic that’s super important for all you riders out there: helmet safety and comfort . Specifically, we’re going to be talking about the Nolan N60-6 motorcycle helmet . If you’re in the market for a new lid that balances quality, features, and an attractive price point, then you’ve absolutely landed in the right place. The Nolan N60-6 is a full-face road helmet that’s designed to be accessible without compromising on the essentials, making it a strong contender for everyday commuters and weekend warriors alike. As we peel back the layers of this helmet, we’ll cover everything from its construction and safety features to its on-road performance and overall value. My goal here, guys, is to give you such a comprehensive breakdown that by the end of this article, you’ll feel like you’ve already taken it for a spin yourself. We’re going to get into the nitty-gritty details, discussing what makes the Nolan N60-6 tick, what it excels at, and where it might fall short for some specific riders. We understand that choosing a motorcycle helmet isn’t just about picking something that looks cool; it’s about making an investment in your safety and riding enjoyment. So, whether you’re a seasoned rider looking for an upgrade or a newbie trying to find your first decent helmet, this Nolan N60-6 review is tailored just for you. We’ll explore its ventilation system, the comfort of its interior padding, the clarity of its visor, and, of course, its all-important safety credentials. Stick with me, and let’s figure out if the Nolan N60-6 is truly the helmet that belongs on your head for your next adventure. We’ve got a lot to cover, so buckle up (or, in this case, strap on!) and let’s get into the world of the Nolan N60-6 . It’s an exciting journey into finding that perfect balance of protection and practicality. Keep reading, because you won’t want to miss a single detail that could help you make an informed decision about your next crucial piece of riding gear.## Introduction to the Nolan N60-6Our journey begins with a closer look at the Nolan N60-6 , a helmet that truly aims to hit that sweet spot between affordability and the robust features you’d expect from a well-respected brand like Nolan. When you’re scouting for a new motorcycle helmet, it’s pretty common to feel like you have to choose between breaking the bank for top-tier features or settling for something that might leave you wanting more. That’s precisely where the Nolan N60-6 steps in, positioning itself as an incredibly attractive option for riders who prioritize both their wallet and their well-being. This isn’t just another helmet; it’s a statement from Nolan that quality and innovation don’t always have to come with an exorbitant price tag.Right off the bat, the Nolan N60-6 makes a strong impression as a full-face road helmet that looks the business. It’s designed with clean lines and a modern aesthetic, ensuring it doesn’t look out of place on any type of road bike, from a sporty naked to a comfortable tourer. Nolan has clearly put thought into making it a versatile choice. The helmet comes in a variety of graphics and solid colors, allowing riders to pick something that matches their personal style – a small but significant detail that many of us appreciate. But beyond the looks, what truly defines the Nolan N60-6 is its commitment to providing a solid foundation of protection and rider comfort. It’s built with a focus on essential features that make a real difference in your daily commute or those longer weekend rides. For instance, the Nolan N60-6 boasts a robust polycarbonate shell, a material known for its impact resistance and lightweight properties. This isn’t some flimsy piece of plastic; this is a carefully engineered shell designed to absorb and dissipate energy in the unfortunate event of an impact, giving you peace of mind every time you twist the throttle.One of the standout features that places the Nolan N60-6 firmly in the mid-range but with premium aspirations is its advanced ventilation system. Trust me, guys, good airflow is a game-changer , especially on hot days or during strenuous rides. Nobody wants to feel like they’re cooking inside their helmet! Nolan has equipped the N60-6 with multiple air intakes and exhaust vents, designed to channel air efficiently across your scalp and out the back, helping to keep you cool, comfortable, and focused on the road. We’ll delve deeper into how effective this system truly is in real-world conditions a bit later on.Another crucial aspect for any rider is the visor system, and the Nolan N60-6 doesn’t disappoint here. It comes ready with a Pinlock anti-fog insert , which, if you’ve ever ridden in humid or cold conditions, you’ll know is an absolute lifesaver. Fogging visors are not only annoying but also a serious safety hazard, and Nolan addresses this head-on by including this essential accessory right out of the box. Plus, the quick-release mechanism for the visor makes swapping it out or cleaning it a breeze, a practical feature that enhances the overall user experience. The interior of the Nolan N60-6 is also a key area where it shines. Nolan uses their Clima Comfort padding, which is designed to be soft against the skin, moisture-wicking, and fully removable and washable. This means maintaining a fresh and hygienic interior is simple, extending the life of your helmet and ensuring a pleasant experience ride after ride. Comfort isn’t just about soft materials; it’s also about fit, and Nolan has a reputation for producing helmets that fit a wide range of head shapes comfortably. In essence, the Nolan N60-6 isn’t trying to be the most expensive, feature-packed helmet on the market. Instead, it’s focusing on delivering a high-quality, reliable, and comfortable riding experience for the vast majority of riders, all wrapped up in a package that offers fantastic value. It’s a testament to Nolan’s understanding of what everyday riders truly need and appreciate. We’re just scratching the surface here, but hopefully, you’re already getting a good feel for what this helmet brings to the table. Let’s move on to dissecting its specific features in more detail!## Key Features and Specifications of the Nolan N60-6Alright, now that we’ve got a good overview of what the Nolan N60-6 is all about, let’s really get into the weeds and examine the specific features and specifications that make this helmet a contender in the full-face category. Understanding these details is crucial for making an informed decision, especially when you’re comparing it against other options. We’re talking about the nuts and bolts, the stuff that directly impacts your safety, comfort, and overall riding enjoyment. This is where the Nolan N60-6 really shows its design philosophy: focusing on tried-and-true technologies and rider-centric details without unnecessary frills. Let’s break it down into digestible chunks, guys, so you can see exactly what you’re getting.### Shell Construction and SafetyAt the heart of any helmet is its shell, and the Nolan N60-6 utilizes a Lexan™ polycarbonate shell . For those unfamiliar, Lexan is a high-performance polycarbonate resin developed by SABIC. It’s renowned for its exceptional impact resistance and its ability to maintain structural integrity under various conditions. This isn’t just about surviving a single impact; it’s about providing consistent, reliable protection. The use of polycarbonate allows Nolan to create a shell that’s both robust and relatively lightweight , which is a huge bonus for long rides where neck fatigue can become a real issue. Nolan helmets, including the N60-6 , are generally well-regarded for their build quality, and this helmet is no exception. It meets the rigorous ECE 22.06 certification , which is the latest European standard for helmet safety. This certification is a big deal, as it involves more comprehensive and stricter testing protocols compared to older standards, including oblique impacts designed to test rotational forces. So, when you strap on your Nolan N60-6 , you can ride with confidence, knowing it’s met some of the highest safety benchmarks in the industry. The design also incorporates a subtle yet effective aerodynamic shape, which not only looks good but also contributes to stability at speed and reduces buffeting, making your ride smoother and less fatiguing.### Visor System and Pinlock ReadinessThe visor system on the Nolan N60-6 is another area where it really shines, offering a lot of practical value. First up, it features a clear, wide-angle visor that provides an excellent field of vision. This is super important for road awareness and spotting potential hazards. The visor is also scratch-resistant , which helps maintain clarity over time, even with regular use and cleaning. One of the most significant advantages, however, is the inclusion of a Pinlock® anti-fog insert right in the box. Seriously, guys, this is a game-changer for anyone who rides in varying weather conditions. The Pinlock creates an insulated air pocket between itself and the main visor, effectively preventing fogging, even in cold or humid environments. No more stopping to wipe your visor or riding with impaired vision – it’s a genuine safety and convenience feature that many helmets in this price range often omit or charge extra for.The visor mechanism itself is designed for quick and easy removal , meaning you can swap out visors (e.g., for a tinted one) or clean them without needing any tools. This is a massive time-saver and makes maintenance a breeze. There are also multiple detent positions, allowing you to crack open the visor slightly for extra airflow without it flapping around at speed.### Ventilation System: Keeping Your CoolWhen it comes to comfort, especially on warmer days, a good ventilation system is non-negotiable. The Nolan N60-6 features an efficient “AirBooster Technology” ventilation system. This system is comprised of multiple air intakes at the front (chin and top) and exhaust vents at the rear. The chin vent is designed to direct airflow over the mouth and nose area, helping to reduce visor fogging and provide fresh air. The top vents channel air over the scalp, where heat tends to build up most.All these vents are easy to operate , even with gloved hands, allowing you to adjust airflow on the fly to match the riding conditions. The “AirBooster Technology” aims to optimize air circulation, ensuring a constant flow of fresh air while effectively expelling hot, stale air from the helmet. This really helps in maintaining rider comfort and reducing fatigue during longer rides, keeping your head cool and focused.### Interior Comfort and FitThe interior of the Nolan N60-6 is crafted with Clima Comfort padding . This isn’t just any padding; it’s designed to be soft, breathable, and highly effective at wicking away moisture . The fabric is also treated for antibacterial properties, which helps keep the helmet fresh and hygienic over time. A huge plus is that the entire interior lining is fully removable and washable . This is a feature I always highlight because it dramatically extends the life of your helmet and ensures you’re always riding with a clean, fresh interior. Nobody wants a smelly helmet, right?The fit of the Nolan N60-6 is generally described as intermediate oval , which tends to suit a wide variety of head shapes. It offers a snug but comfortable fit, without any excessive pressure points, which is crucial for comfort on extended journeys. The cheek pads are designed to provide a secure hold without being overly restrictive, and the neck roll contributes to noise reduction while also preventing the helmet from lifting at speed. Finally, the helmet uses a Microlock2® retention system . This is a micro-metric buckle that’s incredibly easy to use, even with gloves on, and provides a secure, adjustable fit. It’s quick to fasten and release, offering both convenience and safety.All these features combined paint a picture of a helmet that’s thoughtfully designed with the rider in mind, offering a fantastic balance of safety, comfort, and practicality without asking you to remortgage your house. The Nolan N60-6 really packs a punch in its category.## On the Road: Riding Experience with the Nolan N60-6Alright, guys, enough with the specs and features in isolation! Let’s talk about where the rubber meets the road – or, in this case, where the helmet meets the wind. The true test of any motorcycle helmet isn’t just about its technical sheet; it’s about how it performs when you’re actually out there, logging miles. So, what’s it like to ride with the Nolan N60-6 ? This is where we get into the real-world performance, covering everything from noise levels and aerodynamics to visibility and overall comfort during an actual ride. You want to know if this helmet is going to enhance your riding experience or detract from it, and I’m here to give you the honest lowdown based on typical riding scenarios.First up, let’s tackle comfort on the go . When you first don the Nolan N60-6 , you’ll notice the plushness of the Clima Comfort padding. It feels soft against the skin, and once you’ve got it strapped on with the Microlock2 system, it creates a secure, reassuring fit. On shorter commutes, this comfort is immediately apparent. There are no obvious pressure points, and the interior materials do a decent job of wicking away sweat, preventing that clammy feeling that can build up, especially during stop-and-go traffic. For longer rides, the lightweight nature of the Lexan shell really comes into its own. You’ll find that neck fatigue is significantly reduced compared to heavier helmets, allowing you to stay fresher and more focused for extended periods. This makes the Nolan N60-6 an excellent companion for those weekend tours where you might be in the saddle for hours on end.The ventilation system is another critical aspect of on-road performance, and I’m happy to report that Nolan’s