Steelbird SB-29 Two Tone helmet reviewed

While most would agree that full-face helmets (LS2 helmets for example) do in fact offer far more protection to the rider in the advent of a collision or a fatal crash, one cannot deny that the trend of wearing open-face and flip-off helmets is on the rise.

From my personal experience of having used one of Steelbird’s SB 20-20, Flip-off helmets for almost a year now, I can tell you that they don’t just look good, but are very effective, comfortable to wear and rather practical for city conditions, where average riding speeds are on the lower side.

So, when Steelbird asked us to try out their most recently launched two tone SB-29 model, we obviously weren’t going to refuse. At first glance, the SB-29 with its Grey/Black two colour combination, tinted visor and screw-free design does look special. In fact at our very recent Piaggio Vespa VX media test ride, (Read : Vespa VX First Ride) where we took the opportunity to try it out, journalists from other publications present at the event were very much in praise of its attractive open-face design.  

The Steelbird R& D team has put in a lot of thought into designing this helmet primarily to tackle the heat of the summer season. Ventilation points on the top of the helmet can be accessed by pulling back a small shutter. Taking into consideration the direction of wind flow when riding a motorcycle or scooter however, we found this mechanism to be quite ineffective, especially at regulated speeds within the confines of the city.

It isn’t boring to look at, but the quality of construction does leave a lot to be desired. The unisex lightweight design fortunately uses high-impact ABS and thick EPS (expanded polystyrene foam) to absorb any impact during an accident. But, unlike the neatly packaged inner shell in the SB 20-20 detachable jaw guard model, the SB-29 uses cheaper fabrics and plastics to provide just basic cushioning to the rider’s head. Loose threads and not so tightly holding buttons in the inner paneling can make everyday use a bit cumbersome. 

I would have to say that the tinted visor is hands down my favourite feature on the SB-29 model. Most may think that the polycarbonate anti-scratch coated visor merely protects the rider from UV rays, but that’s half the story. The visor’s special coating does a fine job of protecting the rider from dust and smoke, without obstructing vision.

Even with its darker shade it actually makes it easier for riders to wear it during night as it helps block the incoming light from other vehicles and gives a clear view of the road ahead. Also, the visor mechanism on the helmet has a screw-free design and opens/closes in a smooth motion. 

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For easier handling, the European team behind the helmet’s design have also integrated a designer chinstrap with a standard Micro-Metric buckle that can also be opened and locked without having to take off the gloves.

At Rs 1,349, the Steelbird SB-29 is an affordable headgear for a casual everyday commuter. But for the more serious riders looking to invest in an inexpensive second helmet, this one is isn’t for you. Specifically for women riders, it must be said that the SB-29 with its lightweight structure and fantastic visor would make for an ideal companion on two wheels. So, let go of the scarf and switch to something more sturdy and sensible.