Every now and then—and more frequently as I grow older—I am confronted with a clear decision when I am presented with something new. It is: “I have seen the future,” or “this is wretched excess.” More and more often, I come down for both at the same time.
What will it be for the Vata7 X1 carbon helmet?
Before switching it on—yes, it’s a motorcycle helmet you switch on, stay with me—the Vata7 X1 looks good. According to the manufacturer, it weighs only around 900 grams in size S and presumably not much more in the larger sizes. It will be available in sizes XXS–3XL, and Vata promises “eight true-to-size shapes and shells”. It looks then as if each size gets its own helmet shell, which is quite remarkable. Even top-of-the-line helmets are commonly made in only three shell sizes, and in a maximum of five. I love the idea of a separate shell size for every helmet size. The Vata7 X1 also comes with scratch-resistant visor and double-D closure. It is pinlock-ready, too.
The helmet’s unusual properties become obvious when you switch it on. It has several LED light patches which flash synchronously with the motorcycle. Using a system supplied by industry giant Sena, the helmet is wirelessly coupled to the motorcycle and flashes when a turn indicator is activated, and lights up as soon as a brake is applied.
Vata7 also makes a backpack with functions similar to the helmet. Photo: Vata7
The LEDs are expected to last 50,000 working hours, and one battery charge should keep you flashing and shining for 12 hours. The communication system also includes the more usual microphone and speakers.
Developed in the US, Switzerland and Italy and made in the US, the Vata7 X1 is approved to the ECE 22.06 standard. It is expected to cost $899 US but you can’t buy one yet, although you can have your name put on a list if you are interested. Take a look atthe Vata7 websitefor details. Keep in mind that in some jurisdictions the helmet will not be allowed; in Australia it will be illegal if it ‘flashes’ rather than ‘modulating’ the light.
So: is the Vata7 X1 a look at the future, a wretched excess or both? In the end you will have to decide, although despite the admirably low weight my opinion tends towards the final option. I’ll get back to you when I have worn or at least seen one.
