Great review Billy! Thanks. In regard to the fogging issue, you are correct that the Pin Lock has to have a perfect seal in order to be effective. The only one I've had work perfectly is the Nolan N70-X2. The Bell MX9 ADV works perfectly as well without a Pin Lock. Whatever antifog coating Bell uses, it is outstanding. As for coms in the Explorer, I use the LS2 Focal coms/camera system and what I found I had to do was actually carve out the EPS where the speakers sit to make them deeper for the speaker to fit comfortably. For the record, I DO NOT recommend this for everyone but it worked for me with that particular com system. I agree that this is among the best for comfort and it is ECE 2205 (soon to be 2206) so I am unconcerned about the safety even with the open space for the drop down.
Hey Marc thanks for your message and comprehensive thoughts based on your experience. I agree with all of them. Although I have found that placing the speakers underneath the chin strap where it attaches to the helmet on the inside is perfect for me. When sliding the heat on the chin strap stops my ears folding down on themselves as the speakers slide over. I also have the MX9 from Bell. It's magic what they have done to have a visor without the need for a pinlock. Cheers. Billy
Good review, thank you! I manage to fit the speakers approximately where chin strap is fixed to shel, works well (Sena 10R). Regarding ventilation, I faced the issue. I’m wearing the glasses and despite multiple vents, space is front of the mouth is smaller comparing to other adv helmets, air is not evacuating fast enough and glasses are fogging from breathing. Considering the price, you are getting a lot. Except ventilation, no issues.
Thanks for watching and all your comments! Great to hear that you have managed to fit your comms speakers with no bother! Venting is generally ok, except for when its wet and then its rubbish unfortunately but like you say, its a great helmet for the money. Cheers. Billy
Thanks for watching and your comments. I am getting the updated version of this, the ECE 22.06. The version in this review is 22.05. I believe that the comms bit has been resolved. As soon as I get it I will do a review of the differences between 22.05 & 22.06 plus the comms piece. Cheers Billy
A little improvemnet. Cut outs allow the speakers to sit directly behind the chin. So when you are holding the chin strap to pull the helmet down over your head, the strap lies directly over the speakers when placed in the cut outs. Still not perfect but I have no issues with the speakers any more. Hope that helps. Cheers. Billy
best helmet I've used was the X Lite X 551 GT...Sadly, they've now discontinued it. The LS 2 Explorer has the same design features (wide field of view, drop down sunvisor, adjustable peak, decent venting) but the Nolan/X Lite had a dedicated comms unit. I'm sure with a bit of ingenuity the comms issue could be sorted on the LS2....otherwise, a pretty good lid for the money. Thanks for the honest review, as tested in the real world!
Hi Billy! Thanks for watching and your comments! I have solved the comms issue by purchasing in ear speakers that also act as ear defenders so problem solved. They have not arrived yet but I will be using them for my May 9th trip to the Pyrenees (9 days) and will review once I come back. Fingers crossed for a positive experience. Cheers Billy
@@BillysBikeAdventures Yep...had some custom made in-ear monitors when I was a musician in a past life. Keep meaning to get something similar for motorcycling but can't decide on wireless or cable. Quite spendy but well worth the investment. 9 days in the Pyrenees sounds like heaven! Have a safe journey
Hey mate. Thanks for watching. The chin mount is from a company called chinounts. Great service, great product. Never had an issue with them. I can say this honestly as I pay for their products. Cheers. Billy
Hi Colin. Thanks for watching and your comments and question. It's a no brainer. LS2 every time between the two of them. Just be cognizant of the Comms placement and the fact there is no specific ear piece placement cut out. Let me know if you have any more questions. Cheers. Billy
I bought exactly the same helmet in the spring to use for warmer weather riding, and i absolutely love it👌for the money you just cant fault it. It's so much lighter than my Shoei Adv hornet, you can ride all day with it comfortably. By the way, my Shoei Hornet with pinlock performs pretty good in the cold & wet without bad misting😂cheers.
AH great to hear that you are getting on really well with the LS2 Explorer. I really like it. Super lite and comfortable. Continue to enjoy and thanks for watching. Cheers Billy
Great review, thank you. Can you tell me what you used to mount your gp camera to the front of the helmet? I just bought the LS2 Explorer during the boxing day sales so I will need to figure out some sort of way to mount the cam. Thanks again.
The mount i use is from a company called Chin Mounts. Link below to the Explorer helmet mount chinmounts.com/en-gb/products/ls2-explorer-action-camera-chin-mount?_pos=3&_sid=24e6febe3&_ss=r
Great review Billy yup after messaging you when you first reviewed this helmet I’ve got one brilliant lid had the same speaker issue so I took speakers out and use a cardo paktalk bold so I use the in ear version of my ultimate ear buds in my ears plugged in to the cardo solved that issue and so comfy 🎉🎉👍
I am definitely going to invest in some of those ear buds. What ,make are yours Dale? Then that is my problem solved. Whats it like taking your lid on and off with the cable attached to the ear buds> An issue or not? Agree though a great helmet. Cheers. Billy
@@BillysBikeAdventures I use Ultimate ear ones had three different types for 10 year’s plus they are fantastic I reckon just about to order a new set ( I go to Bury to the ear people ) get new impressions apparently at 58 your ears still alter in inner shape 🤓. As for the putting on I just pop them in my ears I hold the cable in my hand so lots of slack as I put helmet on not pulley one out as of yet , and then you get clear comma / music but with all the protection instead of having to keep turning up volume to hear voices or music especially at speed 👍safe riding probably see you at the Adventure weekend Billy ( are you working there or just as a punter)
Awesome. Can you let me know the place. I will get some done myself. I am off to Pyrenees early May so will need to get them done asap. ABR not popular enough yet to be doing anything there so will be soaking up the atmosphere. Will be good to catch up for a beer 🍺
Thanks for watching and your comments. I the helmet in this review is EVE 22.05. I am getting the 22.06 in the next week or so. Will feedback once I get my hands on it 👍
I might have to look into this helmet. I’ve got an Arai head and all the rest gives me a bad pressure spot on the front of my forehead. The drop down dark inner visor is a plus, no need to take up room carrying an extra visor. I don’t wear comms so no issue there. Otherwise I was planning on the XD4.
Hi there. That is a little bit the same for me with the Arai. No such problem with the LS2. Without the comms unit speakers its super comfortable. I have no problem in recommending this helmet. I really like it. Thanks for watching and your comments! Cheers Billy
Hey Billy, Nice video, very informative!!! Is your model LS2 MX701 EXPLORER CARBON or something else? How is the wind noise without the earbuds? Thanks
Hey mate. Yes the MX701 EC! Really like the helmet and is my preferred option for adventure helmet. I am so used to ear plugs now that without them, all helmets are noisy. But having said, bearable without (my opinion). Thanks for watching. Cheers. Billy
@@BillysBikeAdventures@BillysBikeAdventures Thanks, Billy, for your earlier answer. Now, I have a follow-up question. I tried this helmet today at a local shop. Although the fit was okay (read comfortable), I found that the speaker pocket was missing or almost non-existent. I watched your video again just now, and you mentioned that because the speakers are kind of exposed, they directly touch and fold the ears. So, net-net, this is not an ideal helmet for a comm system. Is my assessment correct? If yes, is there a way to curtail it? Since it is a snag fit (it should be), one cannot insert a hand inside the helmet to settle the position (one cannot do it every time). What are your thoughts?
@@buddy_info hey mate. Apologies for slow reply. What I have done and works really well is to position the speakers just below where the chin strap is attached to the helmet so that the strap allows your ears to slide over the speakers. Works really well and the speaker placement is pretty much spot on. Hope that helps. Cheers. Billy
That's another helmet added to my wish list - along with the the Tour X4 and Nexx X Wed2. I note your comments on the X4 but any experience with the Nexx? Also, I have a large head, are the LS2 sizing comparable with (say) the Shoei Neotech (current helmet). Hungry for all info, as we get kit ready for our RTW (on T7's) starting in the summer. Nice vids - just subscribed. :-)
HI Carl. Thanks for watching and your comments / questions! I have no experience with Nexx apart from trying them on at motorcycle shows. I am XL and the XL Nexx was comfortable, but very limited experience. Never worn a Shoei so unable to comment but again I have the XL size LS2 and my Tour X4 from Arai are also XL and the LS2 fits very well. Hope some of that helps and apologies I am unable to provide more info for your questions. Let me know if you have any others. Cheers. Billy
Bit of a niche question but I feel you are best suited to answer. I have just ordered the SHOKZ Open Move Bone Conduction Headphones. Will be testing them today. I wanted to have music but without plugging my ears so I can still hear my exhaust note (I have no gear or Rev indicator) plus hearing some traffic is reassuring. Given you strongly advice wearing ear protection, do you these bone conductive headphones would still work with ear plugs? Since they work with sending vibrations straight to the ear bones, I reckon they might still work with ear plugs? Best of both worlds? Anyways, the predominant question is what plugs do you use abs recommend? Finally, great review, I’ll be picking this helmet up I think!
Hi mate. thanks for watching and all your comments! Much appreciated. I have note had experience of bone conducting ear phones, the reviews look pretty good. Always good to try I think so go for it. I use ear plugs that are filtered so still allowing some sound in. A good company for this Ultimate Ear. You can get a 10% discount which you add the code BBA10 to the check out at the relevant place. Its not an affiliate link so there is no commission for me form this. Just giving you 10% discount. I am still loving this helmet. Let me know if you have any more questions. Cheers. Billy
@@BillysBikeAdventures No worries, hope that me commenting, liking and sharing etc gets your channel more on the algorithm as there’s some quality stuff on it! I’ve used them for a couple rides now and it’s exactly what I wanted regarding both hearing music and the bike. But im thinking I ought to invest in some ear protection. I will check out that link thank you very much! I think you mentioned yours plugs into coms? Do they do ones that play music or plug into a headphone setup instead? I do really like this helmet very much. But my riding mates are convincing me I need a ‘better’ brand since they think anything less than Bell, AGV, Arai etc, would be a bit of a cheap lid considering I’ve got a new 2022 Husqy 701sm. They think I need a crem de la crem. But this lid has caught my eye for so many reasons. Going to ride to a store soon and try on helmets. Then will probably come back to this! I’ll let you know what I end up getting. Many thanks again for such a great video and channel :).
There are cheaper helmets out there. However the Bell MX9 Adventure lid is not pin lock ready meaning there is a risk that it will mist up. It is well vented though. I have one that I need to do a review on and that will be coming in the next week. Would i get it over the LS2, personally no. I have the Soundear from Ultimate Ear which plugs in to your helmet comms unit. Ear protection and speakers all in one. Worked well for me in the Pyrenees when I was there this month (May 2023). The BBA10 will give you 10% regardless of what you buy. Let me know what you end up doing!
@@BillysBikeAdventures Thanks so much Billy for taking the time to let me know all this and for the discount! Will be checking it all out and sorting it soon. Will let you know the outcome!
Gidday, great review thanks. I'm tossing up between the airoh commander and the non carbon version of this ls2 explorer. Which do you prefer and why? I've tried on an airoh commander in xl and it fit me nicely, does this fit the same as the airoh? Cheers mate.
Hi there. Thanks for watching and your comments. I am still preferring the LS2 and don't really have any intent to wear the Airoh again. The size fitting for both is the same for me i.e. XL for both and fit well. The LS2 vents much better than the AIroh and I do love the more off road look of the LS2 vs the Airoh. Hope that helps. Cheers Billy
They should small fan built in (with a service door). Since almost all bikes have 12v or usb outlet this should not be a problem to connect to the helmet if needed. A good quality fan don't make much noise.
I have seen a few prototypes of after market heating component but bad at best. Snow mobile helmets have some heated shields so I would imagine it won't be long before we see some progress in motorcycle helmets. Thanks for watching and your comments. Cheers. Billy
Hey there. Thanks for watching and your question! In checking the information on their website it does not say, but I am a long oval head shape fitting an XL 61-62 cm head circumference. Fits me great. Hope that helps. Thanks for your support. Cheers. Billy
How do you go about making sure to get the right size? Did you try on this brands sizes in store? Or just measure your head and order according to the online size guide?
Hi there. I did have the fortune to try one on before I got this. Otherwise start from your current helmet size then look on the helmet company website as look for the size guide. Most companies will have information to view so you can at least look to get the best size if you are unable to try one on. Hope that helps. Cheers Billy
Thats so good to hear. 10 years wearing the same helmet though. 4-5 years max before they need replacing even if mechanisms working well. the expanded polystyrene liner (EPS) as well as the outer shell can / will potentially start to degrade. At the very most 7 years should be your max usage. Cheers. Billy
What is your head size in centimeters and what size helmet were you wearing? Comfortable? I have 57.5 cm and I wear M all sizes , but the Chinese advise me to buy L . There is no way to try it on
I wear L in flip up helmets and i bought one full face same size but it was small, i saw some people saying that for this helmet is better buy one or two bigger size
I wear an XL in everything, not let me down yet with size. As long as you know your head size, go online to the manufacturer website and they will usually have a size guide to make sure you order the correct size helmet. I know that LS2 have this click the link below, then scroll down to 'Description' and then click on 'Table sizes' to see the right size for you. uk.ls2helmets.com/en/enduro/explorer-carbon Cheers Billy
@@BillysBikeAdventures The LA2 size range is the same as for all European helmets. Says 57-58 is M. I have models of this brand transformer size M and all gut. And about this model , the Chinese advise to take 1 size more . That's the question I have, which one to buy? I have a NEXX 2 enduro it is very narrow and very tight.
Hi mate. Thanks for watching and you comments. Make sure that your helmet order is for the updated ECE 22.06 version. Complies with the EU regs. Here is a link for a company that has a selection of ear defenders ultimateear.com/product-category/motorcycle-ear-plugs/?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiAhc-sBhCEARIsAOVwHuQnUaY-XQe5BGhYcc8ZH58BijnB5ltYVvtbCrHImzfIEdZ70Z_7xV0aAvaAEALw_wcB Let me know how you go. Cheers. Billy
Billy I have chatted to Rich,I don’t understand why no manufacturer as marketed heated motorcycle visor to help eliminate misting up (Snow mobile helmets have it ).Just wondered what your thoughts are ….Stay safe …….Shiny Side Up ….Paul Greenfirld .
Hi Paul. I remember a company at Motorcycle live a couple of years ago (not sure if they were there last year) who were promoting an addition to the helmet for heating the visor. A nice idea bit was clearly an early concept model as it looked awful to be honest. Definitely needed. I'll look at the snowmobile helmets to see how it works. It's clearly possible so in countries like ours where weather is hit and miss, it would be good to have. Especially dangerous riding on motorways with a misty visor. Thanks for the comment Paul 👍
Hi there. Thanks for watching and your comments / question. Ultimate Ear are a good company and offer a range of different customer fitted protection. I have just bought ones that connect to my Cardo Packtalk so will serve as defenders and speakers. I have no affiliation with them but always recommend a good company. Failing that has a search on Google and you will get a lot of different options. Cheers Billy
i actually ordered one today.. and planning to mount a Sena spider RT1 to it.. so im curious about that speaker placements.. but i wear a balaclava most of the time so maybe then it wont catch my ears :D i hope so.. thank you so much for this long term review.. nobody did it on this helmet..
Hi mate. Ah nice, let me know how you go with the speaker placement and how it works with the balaclava. Hope you're happy with it. I have been. Thanks for watching and you comments. Cheers Billy
I think the current model is nearing its end... It's light as.... but visor rattles in the wind, ventilation is poor and my sun visor doesn't like going up or down.... but it is light as...
Oh dear, sorry to hear that you have had this experience. Complete opposite of what I have had. Very happy with mine. They have recently released their ECE 22.06 version which I will be testing very soon. Thanks for watching. Billy
I have fed this back to hopefully have an impact at some stage on the future development of these helmets. Thanks for watching and your comment. Cheers Billy
Hey mate. Thanks for watching and your question. Hard to say as i wear ear plugs when riding. Space where the ears go I would say louder than my other helmets that have more padding around the ear section. Cheers. Billy
I just bought this helmet and it is better than my Klim krios! True that is hard to find good speakers position but it is possible jus play a lite. Using an balaclava sorting out catching ears problem. 👍
Hi BlazeOnMoto. Thanks for watching and your comments. Great to hear that you are getting on great with the LS2 Explorer and that its better for you then the Klim helmet you had. I have solved the speaker problem by buying in ear buds that connect to my comms unit so happy days. Cheers Billy
hi can you explain what the point make this ls2 better than klim? how about weight? or transition visor on klim? i have to decide this ls2 or klim krios pro.
Would be nice to know level of wind noise. Been riding over 30yrs. And I think adv helmets should be a little less wind noise than a Mx helmet. I do wear plugs but sometimes forget
Hi Jay. I take your very hard for me to be able to give an honest Verviers on this helmet without ear plugs as blue to wearing ear plugs, not wearing them would be very noisy and also lack of experience of wearing other helmets without ear plugs. I agree that they should be slightly quieter than MX helmets though. Let me know if you have any more questions. Here’s. Billy
My bikes are on the loud side. So im looking for a comfortable quiet helmet, i only use plugs on the streets. Mostly because i run knobbies. I'll keep looking
Not unless you combine them. I have just purchased some from Ultimate Ear so will have the best of both worlds: ear defenders plus speakers. I will do a review once I have received them and tried them. Off to France with a mate May 9th so that will be the first real test. Cheers Billy
When you compare ls2 and xd4 what is the difference between all in all. Arai is much more expensive, so I'm wondering if it's worth investing the money. Otherwise, I like the look of the LS2 much more. Thanks
Hi OverLordkv. Thanks for watching and your question. Apart from cost the only downside is the challenge of comms unit speaker placement. There is not a specific cut out for the speakers and the space for the ears is rather big so finding the right spot is hard. Added to that because the helmet does not have specific cut outs for the speakers, sliding the helmet on and off the speakers can grab the ears which is painful. If you ride solo most of the time and don't use comms then it's a brilliant helmet, looks comfort, ventilation, it's all pretty good. I really did enjoy wearing it in iceland last year for 6 full days riding. A cracking helmet. Cheers. Billy
Mate i gotta say im not happy with the X4, it's very heavy, there is a lot of wind buffeting with the peak. I ride an Husky FE 350 and as im getting on the gas the noise is really bad! It's unfortunate cause the build quality is great and it fits me well. i think they are over rated and old technology.
@@codforlife Thanks, I will go for LS2 this time and giving a try. For speaker placement maybe I have solution, I will try to squeeze spot where speakers need to be.
In my opinion If the internal sunshade becomes a safety concern in a crash you are most assuredly headed to hospital or the morgue so it isn’t a concern.
Hi. Do you mean the internal sun visor or the peak on the helmet? Neither of them do in my experience to be honest. Very happy with the LS2. Thanks for watching and your question. Cheers. Billy
Hey there. Thanks for watching and your question! I honestly can't say as i have never worn a Scorpion helmet so any comment would not be fair or balanced due to lack of experience. I have reached out to @Scorpion-helmets to see if they would be happy for me to review one. I will keep you posted if i hear back from them. Cheers Billy
Great video, thanks. I have a same carbon helmet and is way noisy without earplugs. My Schubert and Givi helmet 10 times quitter. I don't have to much experience with this helmet because I'm only use it two times but I'm a little bit disappointed for two reasons. 1. Noise . 2. Vibration
Hi there. Thanks for watching and your comments. Sorry to hear that you are disappointed with the helmet. Where are you getting the vibration from? Noise yes I would agree that without ear defenders it is noisy. Always wear ear plugs, noise then no issue and protects your hearing. Cheers Billy
HI mate. Thanks for watching and your question. Yes you can however, the internal sun visor may not work for you. I don't wear glasses so unable to comment. But without use of sun visor, no problem. Cheers. Billy
argh, wind noise is a major factor, would like to have had your opinion re no ear defenders, i had a airoh commander and never needed airplugs, so i was interested in this helmet as like a fool i sold my airoh as i sold bike- but now have another lol
Ah sorry mate. I wear them all the time. Sorry was not able to help on this occasion. I could wear the helmet without them but nothing to compare it to. I may have to do a video on the three helmets that I have to be able to compare. Thanks for watching. Cheers Billy
What skull form do you have? I have large head that is oval, and googling around suggest LS2 Explorer is for oval head. I can't use "normal" helmet because the pressure to the forehead becomes too great.
Ah good to know. You're the first to mention to me that you don't have issues. There may be a factor of us sweating a bit even on the rainy day we have in Iceland, we were riding quite hard so that probably did not help. Thanks for watching. Cheers Billy
@@BillysBikeAdventures I'm in Canada, I ride from -5C to +40C, rain or shine. I can blow in my visor and nothing happens even when it's raining and super humid, while all around the pinlock it fogs up instantly. When there's a proper seal between the pinlock and shield, it shouldn't fog, unless maybe the air was 100% humidity, then maybe fog gets everywhere...but in 5 years I've never experienced that.
I have shoei hornet adv and does fog up, same with shoei GT air what I have and Klim krios. All fog up. Is depends how hard you are working with your body. If you are hot there is no chance - it will always fog up.
@@BlazeOnMoto Not with my RF1200. if the seal between the pinlock and the visor is intact, it shouldn't fog up. I've tried it in both hot and humid weather and cold and humid weather, including cold rainy days, hot rainy days, etc...in my helmet its simply impossible to fog it up.
In built sun visors compromise airflow/breathability in helmets. I'd prefer they didn't come with them so I can either wear sunglasses or goggles instead. Living in Australia and riding in heat above 40c plus temperatures in summer a helmet like the explorer is too hot and simply dangerous to wear.
I am not afraid of saying something is crap if it is. But generally if it is I don't review the product, I just send it back to the manufacturer. My channel is NOT a give it to me to try and I will say it's good channel. That's not what I'm about
Started watching and then stopped when "addressed" the noise issue by advising everyone to buy an expensive pair of custom made ear defender's. Nor everyone has endless amounts of money to spend on every gadget available so when we come to watch an independent review of a helmet it would be helpful if you actually did a review of the helmet. Not just pick and choose the bits that are relevant to you. Needless to say I won't be back. *rant over*
I stated that riders should all wear ear defenders. . I did not say riders should buy expensive ear defenders. Rant as much as you want, but get your facts right. Rant all you want
Great review Billy! Thanks. In regard to the fogging issue, you are correct that the Pin Lock has to have a perfect seal in order to be effective. The only one I've had work perfectly is the Nolan N70-X2. The Bell MX9 ADV works perfectly as well without a Pin Lock. Whatever antifog coating Bell uses, it is outstanding. As for coms in the Explorer, I use the LS2 Focal coms/camera system and what I found I had to do was actually carve out the EPS where the speakers sit to make them deeper for the speaker to fit comfortably. For the record, I DO NOT recommend this for everyone but it worked for me with that particular com system. I agree that this is among the best for comfort and it is ECE 2205 (soon to be 2206) so I am unconcerned about the safety even with the open space for the drop down.
Hey Marc thanks for your message and comprehensive thoughts based on your experience. I agree with all of them. Although I have found that placing the speakers underneath the chin strap where it attaches to the helmet on the inside is perfect for me. When sliding the heat on the chin strap stops my ears folding down on themselves as the speakers slide over. I also have the MX9 from Bell. It's magic what they have done to have a visor without the need for a pinlock. Cheers. Billy
yaay :D im happy you did it.. lets watch it :)
Great review, thx for sharing your experiences as this is the helmet I've been considering
Thanks for watching. I really like this helmet. Its been and continues to be my main helmet of choice. Cheers. Billy
Appreciate the real-life experience. Great review, thank you.
Hey mate. Thanks for watching and your comments. Cheers. Billy
just bought one today. cant wait for it to arrive.
Ah brilliant. I hope you will be very satisfied with your purchase. I have been for quite a while now. Cheers. Billy
Good review, thank you! I manage to fit the speakers approximately where chin strap is fixed to shel, works well (Sena 10R). Regarding ventilation, I faced the issue. I’m wearing the glasses and despite multiple vents, space is front of the mouth is smaller comparing to other adv helmets, air is not evacuating fast enough and glasses are fogging from breathing. Considering the price, you are getting a lot. Except ventilation, no issues.
Thanks for watching and all your comments! Great to hear that you have managed to fit your comms speakers with no bother! Venting is generally ok, except for when its wet and then its rubbish unfortunately but like you say, its a great helmet for the money. Cheers. Billy
Great review! I appreciate the depth..
Was sold on the helmet until the problems with the coms setups.. much needed info..
Thanks for watching and your comments. I am getting the updated version of this, the ECE 22.06. The version in this review is 22.05. I believe that the comms bit has been resolved. As soon as I get it I will do a review of the differences between 22.05 & 22.06 plus the comms piece. Cheers Billy
@@BillysBikeAdventuresany updates on this review?
@@BillysBikeAdventureswould love to know if there’s an update on this. Does the updated 22.06 version have better comms cutouts and integration?
A little improvemnet. Cut outs allow the speakers to sit directly behind the chin. So when you are holding the chin strap to pull the helmet down over your head, the strap lies directly over the speakers when placed in the cut outs. Still not perfect but I have no issues with the speakers any more. Hope that helps. Cheers. Billy
best helmet I've used was the X Lite X 551 GT...Sadly, they've now discontinued it. The LS 2 Explorer has the same design features (wide field of view, drop down sunvisor, adjustable peak, decent venting) but the Nolan/X Lite had a dedicated comms unit. I'm sure with a bit of ingenuity the comms issue could be sorted on the LS2....otherwise, a pretty good lid for the money. Thanks for the honest review, as tested in the real world!
Hi Billy! Thanks for watching and your comments! I have solved the comms issue by purchasing in ear speakers that also act as ear defenders so problem solved. They have not arrived yet but I will be using them for my May 9th trip to the Pyrenees (9 days) and will review once I come back. Fingers crossed for a positive experience. Cheers Billy
@@BillysBikeAdventures Yep...had some custom made in-ear monitors when I was a musician in a past life. Keep meaning to get something similar for motorcycling but can't decide on wireless or cable. Quite spendy but well worth the investment. 9 days in the Pyrenees sounds like heaven! Have a safe journey
Thanks for a great review.
If I may ask, what brand is that chin mount on your helmet or does it come with the helmet as an accessory?
Hey mate. Thanks for watching. The chin mount is from a company called chinounts. Great service, great product. Never had an issue with them. I can say this honestly as I pay for their products. Cheers. Billy
Hi, great videos . 64 million dollar question. Ls2 carbon explorer or airoh commander. Just about to pull the pin one one of them.
Hi Colin. Thanks for watching and your comments and question. It's a no brainer. LS2 every time between the two of them. Just be cognizant of the Comms placement and the fact there is no specific ear piece placement cut out. Let me know if you have any more questions. Cheers. Billy
@@BillysBikeAdventures Thank you, you're a gent.
I bought exactly the same helmet in the spring to use for warmer weather riding, and i absolutely love it👌for the money you just cant fault it. It's so much lighter than my Shoei Adv hornet, you can ride all day with it comfortably. By the way, my Shoei Hornet with pinlock performs pretty good in the cold & wet without bad misting😂cheers.
AH great to hear that you are getting on really well with the LS2 Explorer. I really like it. Super lite and comfortable. Continue to enjoy and thanks for watching. Cheers Billy
Great review, thank you. Can you tell me what you used to mount your gp camera to the front of the helmet? I just bought the LS2 Explorer during the boxing day sales so I will need to figure out some sort of way to mount the cam. Thanks again.
The mount i use is from a company called Chin Mounts. Link below to the Explorer helmet mount
chinmounts.com/en-gb/products/ls2-explorer-action-camera-chin-mount?_pos=3&_sid=24e6febe3&_ss=r
@chinmounts
Thanks very much for a great review. Very informative.
Cheers mate. Thanks for watching and you comment. Cheers. Billy
Great review Billy yup after messaging you when you first reviewed this helmet I’ve got one brilliant lid had the same speaker issue so I took speakers out and use a cardo paktalk bold so I use the in ear version of my ultimate ear buds in my ears plugged in to the cardo solved that issue and so comfy 🎉🎉👍
I am definitely going to invest in some of those ear buds. What ,make are yours Dale? Then that is my problem solved. Whats it like taking your lid on and off with the cable attached to the ear buds> An issue or not? Agree though a great helmet. Cheers. Billy
@@BillysBikeAdventures
I use Ultimate ear ones had three different types for 10 year’s plus they are fantastic I reckon just about to order a new set ( I go to Bury to the ear people ) get new impressions apparently at 58 your ears still alter in inner shape 🤓. As for the putting on I just pop them in my ears I hold the cable in my hand so lots of slack as I put helmet on not pulley one out as of yet , and then you get clear comma / music but with all the protection instead of having to keep turning up volume to hear voices or music especially at speed 👍safe riding probably see you at the Adventure weekend Billy ( are you working there or just as a punter)
Awesome. Can you let me know the place. I will get some done myself. I am off to Pyrenees early May so will need to get them done asap. ABR not popular enough yet to be doing anything there so will be soaking up the atmosphere. Will be good to catch up for a beer 🍺
Great review, is this the ec 22.05 model? I read that new version, the 22.06, has cut outs for coms. Do you know if that is the case?
Thanks for watching and your comments. I the helmet in this review is EVE 22.05. I am getting the 22.06 in the next week or so. Will feedback once I get my hands on it 👍
I might have to look into this helmet. I’ve got an Arai head and all the rest gives me a bad pressure spot on the front of my forehead. The drop down dark inner visor is a plus, no need to take up room carrying an extra visor. I don’t wear comms so no issue there. Otherwise I was planning on the XD4.
Hi there. That is a little bit the same for me with the Arai. No such problem with the LS2. Without the comms unit speakers its super comfortable. I have no problem in recommending this helmet. I really like it. Thanks for watching and your comments! Cheers Billy
Hey Billy, Nice video, very informative!!! Is your model LS2 MX701 EXPLORER CARBON or something else? How is the wind noise without the earbuds? Thanks
Hey mate. Yes the MX701 EC! Really like the helmet and is my preferred option for adventure helmet. I am so used to ear plugs now that without them, all helmets are noisy. But having said, bearable without (my opinion). Thanks for watching. Cheers. Billy
@@BillysBikeAdventures@BillysBikeAdventures Thanks, Billy, for your earlier answer. Now, I have a follow-up question.
I tried this helmet today at a local shop. Although the fit was okay (read comfortable), I found that the speaker pocket was missing or almost non-existent. I watched your video again just now, and you mentioned that because the speakers are kind of exposed, they directly touch and fold the ears. So, net-net, this is not an ideal helmet for a comm system. Is my assessment correct? If yes, is there a way to curtail it?
Since it is a snag fit (it should be), one cannot insert a hand inside the helmet to settle the position (one cannot do it every time). What are your thoughts?
@@buddy_info hey mate. Apologies for slow reply. What I have done and works really well is to position the speakers just below where the chin strap is attached to the helmet so that the strap allows your ears to slide over the speakers. Works really well and the speaker placement is pretty much spot on. Hope that helps. Cheers. Billy
That's another helmet added to my wish list - along with the the Tour X4 and Nexx X Wed2. I note your comments on the X4 but any experience with the Nexx?
Also, I have a large head, are the LS2 sizing comparable with (say) the Shoei Neotech (current helmet).
Hungry for all info, as we get kit ready for our RTW (on T7's) starting in the summer.
Nice vids - just subscribed. :-)
HI Carl. Thanks for watching and your comments / questions! I have no experience with Nexx apart from trying them on at motorcycle shows. I am XL and the XL Nexx was comfortable, but very limited experience. Never worn a Shoei so unable to comment but again I have the XL size LS2 and my Tour X4 from Arai are also XL and the LS2 fits very well. Hope some of that helps and apologies I am unable to provide more info for your questions. Let me know if you have any others. Cheers. Billy
@@BillysBikeAdventures You can only comment on what you have tried and I appreciate that - thanks for coming back to me. 🙂
Hi Billy, afterwards did you try pinlock 120xlt, because the standard one is 30 or 70? I dont know if it is available for this helmet...
Unfortunately they don't do a 120 of this helmet. A shame, but not too big a drama. Thanks for watching. Cheers. Billy
Bit of a niche question but I feel you are best suited to answer. I have just ordered the SHOKZ Open Move Bone Conduction Headphones. Will be testing them today.
I wanted to have music but without plugging my ears so I can still hear my exhaust note (I have no gear or Rev indicator) plus hearing some traffic is reassuring. Given you strongly advice wearing ear protection, do you these bone conductive headphones would still work with ear plugs? Since they work with sending vibrations straight to the ear bones, I reckon they might still work with ear plugs? Best of both worlds?
Anyways, the predominant question is what plugs do you use abs recommend?
Finally, great review, I’ll be picking this helmet up I think!
Hi mate. thanks for watching and all your comments! Much appreciated. I have note had experience of bone conducting ear phones, the reviews look pretty good. Always good to try I think so go for it. I use ear plugs that are filtered so still allowing some sound in. A good company for this Ultimate Ear. You can get a 10% discount which you add the code BBA10 to the check out at the relevant place. Its not an affiliate link so there is no commission for me form this. Just giving you 10% discount. I am still loving this helmet. Let me know if you have any more questions. Cheers. Billy
@@BillysBikeAdventures No worries, hope that me commenting, liking and sharing etc gets your channel more on the algorithm as there’s some quality stuff on it!
I’ve used them for a couple rides now and it’s exactly what I wanted regarding both hearing music and the bike. But im thinking I ought to invest in some ear protection. I will check out that link thank you very much! I think you mentioned yours plugs into coms? Do they do ones that play music or plug into a headphone setup instead?
I do really like this helmet very much. But my riding mates are convincing me I need a ‘better’ brand since they think anything less than Bell, AGV, Arai etc, would be a bit of a cheap lid considering I’ve got a new 2022 Husqy 701sm. They think I need a crem de la crem. But this lid has caught my eye for so many reasons.
Going to ride to a store soon and try on helmets. Then will probably come back to this! I’ll let you know what I end up getting.
Many thanks again for such a great video and channel :).
There are cheaper helmets out there. However the Bell MX9 Adventure lid is not pin lock ready meaning there is a risk that it will mist up. It is well vented though. I have one that I need to do a review on and that will be coming in the next week. Would i get it over the LS2, personally no. I have the Soundear from Ultimate Ear which plugs in to your helmet comms unit. Ear protection and speakers all in one. Worked well for me in the Pyrenees when I was there this month (May 2023). The BBA10 will give you 10% regardless of what you buy.
Let me know what you end up doing!
@@BillysBikeAdventures Thanks so much Billy for taking the time to let me know all this and for the discount! Will be checking it all out and sorting it soon. Will let you know the outcome!
Gidday, great review thanks. I'm tossing up between the airoh commander and the non carbon version of this ls2 explorer. Which do you prefer and why? I've tried on an airoh commander in xl and it fit me nicely, does this fit the same as the airoh? Cheers mate.
Hi there. Thanks for watching and your comments. I am still preferring the LS2 and don't really have any intent to wear the Airoh again. The size fitting for both is the same for me i.e. XL for both and fit well. The LS2 vents much better than the AIroh and I do love the more off road look of the LS2 vs the Airoh. Hope that helps. Cheers Billy
Great review. How is the ventilation of the helmet on a hot day?
Hi there. The venting is very goods on this helmet. Plenty of vents (intakes and exhausts) to keep your head cool. Thanks for watching. Cheers. Billy
They should small fan built in (with a service door). Since almost all bikes have 12v or usb outlet this should not be a problem to connect to the helmet if needed. A good quality fan don't make much noise.
I have seen a few prototypes of after market heating component but bad at best. Snow mobile helmets have some heated shields so I would imagine it won't be long before we see some progress in motorcycle helmets. Thanks for watching and your comments. Cheers. Billy
Is this a long oval, intermediate oval, or round oval? Thanks for the review Billy. You have a great channel vlog. Safe travels in your journey.
Hey there. Thanks for watching and your question! In checking the information on their website it does not say, but I am a long oval head shape fitting an XL 61-62 cm head circumference. Fits me great. Hope that helps. Thanks for your support. Cheers. Billy
I use Rain X anti fog spray on the visor and I haven’t had an issue with fogging during the winter
Ah ok, thats for the experience sharing. Will give this a go and see how i get on! Cheers. Billy
How do you go about making sure to get the right size? Did you try on this brands sizes in store? Or just measure your head and order according to the online size guide?
Hi there. I did have the fortune to try one on before I got this. Otherwise start from your current helmet size then look on the helmet company website as look for the size guide. Most companies will have information to view so you can at least look to get the best size if you are unable to try one on. Hope that helps. Cheers Billy
@@BillysBikeAdventures Thanks allot Billy. Going to go to a dealer and try on I think!
Failing mechanisms ? I have a Shoei worn it 10 years (needs replacing) and everything still works
Thats so good to hear. 10 years wearing the same helmet though. 4-5 years max before they need replacing even if mechanisms working well. the expanded polystyrene liner (EPS) as well as the outer shell can / will potentially start to degrade. At the very most 7 years should be your max usage. Cheers. Billy
What is your head size in centimeters and what size helmet were you wearing? Comfortable? I have 57.5 cm and I wear M all sizes , but the Chinese advise me to buy L . There is no way to try it on
I wear L in flip up helmets and i bought one full face same size but it was small, i saw some people saying that for this helmet is better buy one or two bigger size
I wear an XL in everything, not let me down yet with size. As long as you know your head size, go online to the manufacturer website and they will usually have a size guide to make sure you order the correct size helmet. I know that LS2 have this click the link below, then scroll down to 'Description' and then click on 'Table sizes' to see the right size for you.
uk.ls2helmets.com/en/enduro/explorer-carbon
Cheers Billy
@@BillysBikeAdventures The LA2 size range is the same as for all European helmets. Says 57-58 is M. I have models of this brand transformer size M and all gut. And about this model , the Chinese advise to take 1 size more . That's the question I have, which one to buy? I have a NEXX 2 enduro it is very narrow and very tight.
Informative Video. I m going to order this helmet. Can you please send the link for the ear defenders. Thanks 😊
Hi mate. Thanks for watching and you comments. Make sure that your helmet order is for the updated ECE 22.06 version. Complies with the EU regs. Here is a link for a company that has a selection of ear defenders ultimateear.com/product-category/motorcycle-ear-plugs/?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiAhc-sBhCEARIsAOVwHuQnUaY-XQe5BGhYcc8ZH58BijnB5ltYVvtbCrHImzfIEdZ70Z_7xV0aAvaAEALw_wcB Let me know how you go. Cheers. Billy
Billy I have chatted to Rich,I don’t understand why no manufacturer as marketed heated motorcycle visor to help eliminate misting up (Snow mobile helmets have it ).Just wondered what your thoughts are ….Stay safe …….Shiny Side Up ….Paul Greenfirld .
Hi Paul. I remember a company at Motorcycle live a couple of years ago (not sure if they were there last year) who were promoting an addition to the helmet for heating the visor. A nice idea bit was clearly an early concept model as it looked awful to be honest. Definitely needed. I'll look at the snowmobile helmets to see how it works. It's clearly possible so in countries like ours where weather is hit and miss, it would be good to have. Especially dangerous riding on motorways with a misty visor. Thanks for the comment Paul 👍
hi mate great review, the ear defenders you mention, where to buy please? Cheers.
Hi there. Thanks for watching and your comments / question. Ultimate Ear are a good company and offer a range of different customer fitted protection. I have just bought ones that connect to my Cardo Packtalk so will serve as defenders and speakers. I have no affiliation with them but always recommend a good company. Failing that has a search on Google and you will get a lot of different options. Cheers Billy
i actually ordered one today.. and planning to mount a Sena spider RT1 to it.. so im curious about that speaker placements.. but i wear a balaclava most of the time so maybe then it wont catch my ears :D i hope so.. thank you so much for this long term review.. nobody did it on this helmet..
Hi mate. Ah nice, let me know how you go with the speaker placement and how it works with the balaclava. Hope you're happy with it. I have been. Thanks for watching and you comments. Cheers Billy
could some type of double sided tape and careful placement fix the problem? I will be keen to hear what you find.
I have ended up ordering some I'm ear speakers custom made from Ultimate. Not arrived yet but I will have them for my trip to France in a few weeks 👍
I think the current model is nearing its end... It's light as.... but visor rattles in the wind, ventilation is poor and my sun visor doesn't like going up or down.... but it is light as...
Oh dear, sorry to hear that you have had this experience. Complete opposite of what I have had. Very happy with mine. They have recently released their ECE 22.06 version which I will be testing very soon. Thanks for watching. Billy
Agreed, great helmet but it hurts to put on and take off with speakers fitted.
I have fed this back to hopefully have an impact at some stage on the future development of these helmets. Thanks for watching and your comment. Cheers Billy
I wonder how a dual sport helmet with the electric visors would do with not fogging up. Like the ones made for snowmobile or winter riding.
Thats exactly what is needed esp for the winter riding months. Great suggestion. Cheers. Billy
Can you say anyting about how loud is it on highway in compare to your other helmets ?
Hey mate. Thanks for watching and your question. Hard to say as i wear ear plugs when riding. Space where the ears go I would say louder than my other helmets that have more padding around the ear section. Cheers. Billy
I just bought this helmet and it is better than my Klim krios! True that is hard to find good speakers position but it is possible jus play a lite. Using an balaclava sorting out catching ears problem. 👍
Hi BlazeOnMoto. Thanks for watching and your comments. Great to hear that you are getting on great with the LS2 Explorer and that its better for you then the Klim helmet you had. I have solved the speaker problem by buying in ear buds that connect to my comms unit so happy days. Cheers Billy
@@BillysBikeAdventures great reviews mate thanks! Which ear buds did you get?
could some type of double sided tape and careful placement fix the problem? I will be keen to hear what you find.
hi can you explain what the point make this ls2 better than klim?
how about weight?
or transition visor on klim?
i have to decide this ls2 or klim krios pro.
Would be nice to know level of wind noise. Been riding over 30yrs. And I think adv helmets should be a little less wind noise than a Mx helmet. I do wear plugs but sometimes forget
Hi Jay. I take your very hard for me to be able to give an honest Verviers on this helmet without ear plugs as blue to wearing ear plugs, not wearing them would be very noisy and also lack of experience of wearing other helmets without ear plugs. I agree that they should be slightly quieter than MX helmets though. Let me know if you have any more questions. Here’s. Billy
My bikes are on the loud side. So im looking for a comfortable quiet helmet, i only use plugs on the streets. Mostly because i run knobbies. I'll keep looking
You can't use a comms unit with ear defenders anyway right?
Not unless you combine them. I have just purchased some from Ultimate Ear so will have the best of both worlds: ear defenders plus speakers. I will do a review once I have received them and tried them. Off to France with a mate May 9th so that will be the first real test. Cheers Billy
When you compare ls2 and xd4 what is the difference between all in all. Arai is much more expensive, so I'm wondering if it's worth investing the money. Otherwise, I like the look of the LS2 much more. Thanks
Hi OverLordkv. Thanks for watching and your question. Apart from cost the only downside is the challenge of comms unit speaker placement. There is not a specific cut out for the speakers and the space for the ears is rather big so finding the right spot is hard. Added to that because the helmet does not have specific cut outs for the speakers, sliding the helmet on and off the speakers can grab the ears which is painful. If you ride solo most of the time and don't use comms then it's a brilliant helmet, looks comfort, ventilation, it's all pretty good. I really did enjoy wearing it in iceland last year for 6 full days riding. A cracking helmet. Cheers. Billy
Mate i gotta say im not happy with the X4, it's very heavy, there is a lot of wind buffeting with the peak. I ride an Husky FE 350 and as im getting on the gas the noise is really bad! It's unfortunate cause the build quality is great and it fits me well. i think they are over rated and old technology.
@@codforlife Thanks, I will go for LS2 this time and giving a try. For speaker placement maybe I have solution, I will try to squeeze spot where speakers need to be.
In my opinion If the internal sunshade becomes a safety concern in a crash you are most assuredly headed to hospital or the morgue so it isn’t a concern.
A fair point! Thanks for watching and you comment! Cheers. Billy
Hi!i have read that the peak vibrates a lot at the highway.from your experience is it true;;
Hi. Do you mean the internal sun visor or the peak on the helmet? Neither of them do in my experience to be honest. Very happy with the LS2. Thanks for watching and your question. Cheers. Billy
better Scorpion adf-9000 / XT9000 or this ls2 explorer ?
Hey there. Thanks for watching and your question! I honestly can't say as i have never worn a Scorpion helmet so any comment would not be fair or balanced due to lack of experience. I have reached out to @Scorpion-helmets to see if they would be happy for me to review one. I will keep you posted if i hear back from them. Cheers Billy
Is the peak adjustable?
It is mate. On the latest version it has 2 positions that really help with high sun or low sun. Thanks for watching. Cheers Billy.
Great video, thanks. I have a same carbon helmet and is way noisy without earplugs. My Schubert and Givi helmet 10 times quitter. I don't have to much experience with this helmet because I'm only use it two times but I'm a little bit disappointed for two reasons. 1. Noise . 2. Vibration
Hi there. Thanks for watching and your comments. Sorry to hear that you are disappointed with the helmet. Where are you getting the vibration from? Noise yes I would agree that without ear defenders it is noisy. Always wear ear plugs, noise then no issue and protects your hearing. Cheers Billy
Can you wear spectacles with this helmet, thanks.
HI mate. Thanks for watching and your question. Yes you can however, the internal sun visor may not work for you. I don't wear glasses so unable to comment. But without use of sun visor, no problem. Cheers. Billy
Thanks Billy.
argh, wind noise is a major factor, would like to have had your opinion re no ear defenders, i had a airoh commander and never needed airplugs, so i was interested in this helmet as like a fool i sold my airoh as i sold bike- but now have another lol
Ah sorry mate. I wear them all the time. Sorry was not able to help on this occasion. I could wear the helmet without them but nothing to compare it to. I may have to do a video on the three helmets that I have to be able to compare. Thanks for watching. Cheers Billy
What skull form do you have? I have large head that is oval, and googling around suggest LS2 Explorer is for oval head. I can't use "normal" helmet because the pressure to the forehead becomes too great.
Hi. I have more of a long oval head. Wear XL in my Arai TX4 and same for the LS2
I have a Shoei RF1200 with pinlock, and its simply impossible to fog up. Weird that their pinlock fogs up...
Ah good to know. You're the first to mention to me that you don't have issues. There may be a factor of us sweating a bit even on the rainy day we have in Iceland, we were riding quite hard so that probably did not help. Thanks for watching. Cheers Billy
@@BillysBikeAdventures I'm in Canada, I ride from -5C to +40C, rain or shine. I can blow in my visor and nothing happens even when it's raining and super humid, while all around the pinlock it fogs up instantly. When there's a proper seal between the pinlock and shield, it shouldn't fog, unless maybe the air was 100% humidity, then maybe fog gets everywhere...but in 5 years I've never experienced that.
@@Speedytrip That is cold! Yeah agree you must have the perfect seal with the pin lock. I will keep trying to get a good seal. Cheers. Billy
I have shoei hornet adv and does fog up, same with shoei GT air what I have and Klim krios. All fog up. Is depends how hard you are working with your body. If you are hot there is no chance - it will always fog up.
@@BlazeOnMoto Not with my RF1200. if the seal between the pinlock and the visor is intact, it shouldn't fog up. I've tried it in both hot and humid weather and cold and humid weather, including cold rainy days, hot rainy days, etc...in my helmet its simply impossible to fog it up.
Seems like for those conditions you needed a heated sheild/snowmobile helmet.
Spot on. not sure why they don't include them on motorcycle helmets esp for the winter riding months. Good suggestion. Cheers. Billy
What chin mount are you using?
Company called Chin Mounts based in the US.
In built sun visors compromise airflow/breathability in helmets. I'd prefer they didn't come with them so I can either wear sunglasses or goggles instead. Living in Australia and riding in heat above 40c plus temperatures in summer a helmet like the explorer is too hot and simply dangerous to wear.
You get what you pay for, as yours was free you can't really complain surely?😂😂😂😂😂😂
I am not afraid of saying something is crap if it is. But generally if it is I don't review the product, I just send it back to the manufacturer. My channel is NOT a give it to me to try and I will say it's good channel. That's not what I'm about
The speaker reset I made bigger so my ears are not breaking.)))
Nice one! Cheers Billy
Started watching and then stopped when "addressed" the noise issue by advising everyone to buy an expensive pair of custom made ear defender's.
Nor everyone has endless amounts of money to spend on every gadget available so when we come to watch an independent review of a helmet it would be helpful if you actually did a review of the helmet. Not just pick and choose the bits that are relevant to you.
Needless to say I won't be back.
*rant over*
I stated that riders should all wear ear defenders. . I did not say riders should buy expensive ear defenders. Rant as much as you want, but get your facts right. Rant all you want
Change your tampon