Ryzen ZX600V – Modular Helmet Review

For many years, I have used open face helmets in my day-to-day riding. These types of helmets are lighter and more comfortable, especially when riding in summertime. And since there is no chin bar on an open face helmet, I can simply put it on without having to take off my prescription glasses.

However, I really couldn’t ride with full confidence, knowing that 34% of head impact in motorcycle crashes are on the chin area. I have been fortunate in the past years, yes, as I still have my chin and a full set of teeth. But I thought it’s about time I to quit trading safety for a bit of comfort and convenience.

The solution, modular helmets.

📸: Kit Pilla
Not quite as protective a full-face helmet, a modular lid at least a have chin bar that an open face helmet lacks. A modular also offers the easy-on, easy-off convenience of an open face as its front part can be flipped open. Yet, there lies the rub. The additional mechanism on a modular helmet adds to its weight and sometimes, to its dimensions as well. Chunky and hefty, I found modular helmets to be cumbersome when riding around town on a particularly busy day.

Fortunately, not all helmets are created equal.

The Ryzen ZX600V modular helmet feels lighter than its 1,650-gram listed weight. It also doesn’t look as bulky as other modulars in the market. You’d be forgiven for having doubts about the quality of a helmet from a home-grown, relatively new brand but I must say, the build quality on the Ryzen ZX600V is at par with other modular helmets twice its price. I don’t believe I would be able to find a better alternative at P 3,500.

I particularly like that the ZX600V has an Asian fit, in which the cranial area has a more rounded shape, as oppose to European fit which is a bit narrower and more elongated. It latches on snugly to the top of my Asian head and it stays in place without having to rely on annoyingly thick cheek pads.

The mechanism on the flip-up chin bar feels well-built and nothing rattles or vibrates. Whenever I close it, I get that reassuring “click”. You’ll also be glad to know that the Ryzen ZX600V doesn’t smell like adhesive (rugby) inside, like some helmets in its price point. That might be a bummer for some, though.

It’s not all perfect. There’s some noticeable wind noise when riding above 40 kph and somehow, there’s a thin stream of air that tickles my nose. I suggest wearing a tube mask or a balaclava, otherwise you’ll feel the need to scratch your nose every so often. I do appreciate the thin padding under the chin which keeps dust from getting inside the helmet.

The Ryzen ZX600V comes in conventional solid colors to match a wide variety of motorcycle models. It is available on multiple online platforms but you can also get it at Moto mall stores or even at SM department stores. It comes in medium to XXL so it will fit even the biggest of Asian heads.