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► Motorcycle News 2009

Nolan N43 Trilogy

Nolan N43 Trilogy Helmet

Nolan N43 Trilogy - DOT Version of N43 Air

September 22, 2009 - Nolan Helmets has released a DOT version of the acclaimed N43 Air recently reviewed on webBikeWorld.com.

As we noted in our review, the N43 Air is ECE approved only.  The N43 Trilogy meets DOT safety standards, but apparently it could not meet DOT standards with the unique top vent that was one of the best features of the N43 Air -- a feature that gives the N43 Air some of the best ventilation available.  Too bad!

Nolan calls the N43 Trilogy a "Crossover" helmet with a "6 in 1 design".  It has quick-change accessories allows for customized looks and functionality.  The N43 Trilogy comes with a clear face shield, the integrated sun shield, the peak and the removable chin bar, similar to the N43 Air.

The chin bar is made from GE Lexan and is EPS lined, according to Nolan.  Mounted with strong stainless-steel latches, it passes the tests for full-face helmets of the European standard ECE-22.05.

Nolan N43 Trilogy Graphics

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Other features of the Nolan N43 Trilogy include:

• VPS (Vision Protection System):  A short dark shield mounted on the inside of the helmet and moving independently from the face shield.  It provides eye protection and is also available in amber, light blue and light smoke.  It is operated by a large rubber coated slider on the left side of the helmet.

• Quick-Change Face Shield:  Is claimed to be optically correct; meets UV 400 standards for UV protection; and fitted in an exceptionally large eye port.  The N43 Trilogy accepts the Pinlock anti-fog insert (review) but a Pinlock is not provided with the helmet (Corrected from original version).

• Separate Visor Peak:  The helmet comes with a short black peak that can be installed at the top of the eye port instead of the clear shield.

• Ncom Intercom Ready:  The N43 Trilogy, like the N43 Air, is ready for the Nolan Ncom Bluetooth communication system.

• Helmet Shell:  The helmet uses a lightweight aerodynamic polycarbonate shell with built-in spoiler for improved stability.

• Liner:  It has a fully removable and washable "Clima-Comfort" liner, which is claimed to be antibacterial, antifungal and moisture wicking.

Nolan N43 Trilogy with chin bar removed.

BUY IT: Nolan N43 Trilogy BUY IT: Nolan N43 Trilogy (Ncom) BUY IT:  Ncom Bluetooth Kit at Revzilla and help support webBikeWorld!

Although the N43 Trilogy does not include the unique parallel top vent of the N43 Air, Nolan says that the N43 Trilogy has a "JSW" top vent with exhaust grid in the rear spoiler.  This works in conjunction with the air channels along the crown and it is operated by a "glove-friendly" rubber slider.

The N43 Trilogy uses a "Microlock" (adjustable quick-release) retention system and it has velour chin-strap padding.

The N43 Trilogy meets DOT safety standards in the U.S. and meets ECE-22.05 in Europe.

The helmet is currently available for sale in the U.S. at a list price of $299.95 in sizes ranging from XS to XXL.  Colors include solids and graphics.

More:  The webBikeWorld.com Nolan N43 Air review

Source:  Nolan press release, edited by webBikeWorld.

Note:  For informational use only.  All material and photographs are Copyright © webWorld International, LLC - 2000-2009.  All rights reserved.  See the webBikeWorld® Site Info page.  NOTE:  Product specifications, features and details may change or differ from our descriptions.  Always check before purchasing.  Read the Terms and Conditions!

►Reader Comments and Owner Feedback

From "J.T." (9/09):  "Just received my Nolan N43 Trilogy.  It is also sold in an Outlaw version (which seems to just be the helmet without the chin bar and attachments).

So far the fit is slightly tighter than one might expect of an XL jet-styled helmet, but it is comfortable and LIGHT.  Pity about the vents -- I was really looking forward to those sliding vents but it'll be put to the test to see if it gets too cold in Fall/Winter, since this helmet is marketed as an all-season helmet.

The face-shield is unique in that it is spring-loaded -- just lift the tab up halfway and it swishes up and holds into place.  That keeps it from falling down, like my Bell Mag-8 used to do whenever I would hit a bump with the face-shield up. Very neat!

I wanted to point out though that the Pinlock insert is not included with the helmet -- seems that you have to buy it separately.  If Nolan has told you that it is, then Nolan should send each of us who have bought an N43 a Pinlock insert.

Also, I have not yet quite figured out how to put my Cardo ScalaRider on the helmet yet, as the neckroll seems to be in the way.  I'm sure I'll figure it out; if not, I guess I'll just have to get an N-COM unit!

Either way, this is my first Nolan and I must say that there is a notable and significant difference in the quality of the fit and finish.  I'll be breaking it in these next 2 weeks, including my first attempt at a Saddlesore 1000 (Iron Butt Association ride that is 1000 miles in under 24 hours)."

UPDATE From "J.T." (10/09):  "The N43 Trilogy is extremely comfortable although the chin bar is too close and touches my chin when I have it in, so I've taken to wearing it without unless I'm on a long touring ride.

The top vent, as far as I can tell, does not flow the air that I was hoping to get (as I didn't realize that the US DOT version was different from the N43 Air).  It's still a great helmet though, heads and tails over my Bell Mag-8 and my SyMax II.

I do have a question ... That Pinlock insert is impossible to find.  I can't find it online, have yet to hear anything from Pinlock USA, and not even a UK-based retailer can tell me anything about where to get one.

It's extremely aggravating as the visor fogs up like crazy at the bottom on an all-day ride.  Can anybody help me with finding a Pinlock insert, universal or otherwise?

Editor's Reply:  Pinlock visor inserts are available through this link to our affiliate, the Motorcycle Superstore.  However, the Pinlock inserts are listed by helmet brand and model, so I'm not sure if a Pinlock for a Shoei, for example, will also fit an N43. 

I contacted CIMA International, the U.S. importer for Nolan helmets, who said that they keep most parts and accessories for all models of Nolan helmets.  The Pinlock insert for the N43 Trilogy can be ordered by calling their toll-free number at 866-243-5638.

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