Since earlier this week, the popular BILTWELL helmets "Gringo" and "Gringo S" are also available with ECE 22.05 and we are proud to be the first dealer worldwide to already stock these long awaited helmets.
The first question, which naturally arises when a motorcycle helmet that was not previously ECE certified, receives ECE certification is the question of what has changed structurally in comparison to its predecessor. In this article we would like to make a first comparison, in which we concentrate on external features and comfort.
BILTWELL Gringo - which helmets were compared?
Compared were BILTWELL Gringo S "Bronze Metallic" with DOT Norm and BILTWELL Gringo S "Pacific Blue" with ECE & DOT - both in size L. For the sake of simplicity, we generally refer to "Gringo" when information relates to Gringo & Gringo S alike.
BILTWELL Gringo helmet shell & visor
To obtain the ECE certification, a motorcycle helmet often ends with a much larger helmet shell. But BILTWELL has managed to maintain the helmet shell size in the gringo so far that a difference in the direct comparison with the predecessor visually barely recognizable. Just as before the Gringos come in two shell sizes (XS-M/ L-XXL). However, the weight has increased by around 160g (Gringo S). The size of the facial opening is identical and the Gringo S also has the visor of the new model ECE certified. It is stronger and the edges are cleaner than before and it offers, like the previous model, a +50 UV protection. In addition to UV protection, the new visor is scratch resistant and anti-fog. The visor mechanism works as well as with the predecessor, and all four settings snap clear.
BILTWELL Gringo - Inside
Comparing the insides of the two helmets, one notices that the new Gringo is equipped with significantly more material. The chin part of the predecessor is equipped with a ca. 5 mm thick layer of fabric-covered foam, while the new Gringo with ECE has an approx. 13 mm thick part made of strong plastic. The lining of the new helmet has been slightly reinforced in the forehead, and now offers a thicker neck roll and the cheek pads have become significantly thicker.
BILTWELL Gringo - Fit
When putting on the new BILTWELL Gringo ECE you can feel the effects of the thicker upholstery, because the helmet opening, despite featuring an almost identical helmet shell size has shrunk a lot. In the predecessor model I wear size M and hardly got the new Gringo over my head. My colleague did not even manage to pull the new Gringo over his head in the size he uses to wear the predecessor in. The helmet has become tighter overall, which for me personally, is most noticeable in the forehead and cheek area. Also the chin part is closer to the chin due to the additional material. Those who would like to change from the previous Gringo to the new model with ECE, would be better off choosing a size larger than usual. The new Gringo convinces with a snug and comfortable fit, creating a sense of increased safety. We can imagine that the additonal upholstery will also cancel out more noise.
BILTWELL Gringo Accessories
Just like before you can fit the Gringo with the "3-Snap Bubble" shields and "Moto Visor". The Gringo S can be fitted with "Baseplate", "Hardware Kit" aa well as "Flat Shield" and "Bubble Shield". Neither "Cheek Pads" nor "Liner" of the predecessors will fit the new helmets.
Helmet comparison - Our Summary
The outer appearance of Gringo & Gringo S with ECE are almost indistinguishable from their predecessors and therefore keep their place in the top league of retro full face motorcycle helmets. The new model is around 160g heavier (Gringo S) than its predecessor, though and the fit is snug. Getting into the new Gringo ECE is much harder compared to its predecessor which pays off once you are in the helmet as it has a firm yet comfortable fit. If you would like to change from the predecessor to a new Gringo, we recommend to size up. All models available from our BILTWELL Online Shop are in stock and can be sent out right away.
