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The Troy Lee Designs A3 has to admit defeat when it comes to weight - at 417 grams in size M, the A3 is 25 grams heavier than its predecessor, the A2. This is probably partly due to the dual-density construction, which uses foams of different densities.
But there is also a lot on offer in terms of equipment. Troy Lee has upgraded to the higher quality MIPS Evolve Core and has also revised the previously only minimally adjustable visor. This is now magnetically fixed in position and can also be folded up further to stow a goggle. When adjusting the visor, it now snaps neatly into the various positions.
Instead of a classic clip - as before - the strap is now fastened with a Fidlock magnetic buckle. Inside, the Troy Lee A3 is thickly lined with antibacterial Ionic padding and equipped with an additional sweatband on the forehead. This means that the A3 sits quite comfortably on the head. If you want a little more comfort, you can switch to the slightly thicker replacement pad included in the scope of delivery.
>> You can find an overview of the 15 bike helmets tested here: 15 MTB helmets tested: how safe these MIPS helmets for trail and enduro are
Adjustment system not ideally solved
The height adjustment of the headband is still somewhat complicated using push buttons. The dial is easy to operate, has a sufficiently fine adjustment range and ensures that the helmet is securely fixed to the head. In the top position, however, it is almost completely covered by the helmet shell and can only be reached with one finger.
Incidentally, Troy Lee Designs is generous when it comes to accessories. Both a second, thicker pad and two replacement sweatbands are included in the box. Also included: replacement screws for the visor and additional Velcro pads for the pads.
Troy Lee Designs A3 in the lab
After the Troy Lee Designs A3 convinced us with its high level of comfort and lavish features, the somewhat sobering laboratory test follows. The A3 can't keep up with its predecessor either in terms of rotational protection or the residual forces of the linear impact and only ranks in one of the lower places in this test.
The values of all tested helmets at a glance
In contrast, the Troy Lee delivers a convincing performance in terms of ventilation. While riding, you can feel a constant flow of air that extends all the way back over your head.
Info & Price - Troy Lee Designs A3
- Pricefrom 219,99 Euro >> available here
- Weight: 417 gram
- Sizes: S 53-56; M 57-59; L 60-63
- Made inChina
- Colours: 9 colours
- Rotation systemMIPS Evolve Core
- EquipmentMagnetic lock, magnetically adjustable break-away visor; spare padding; sweatband
Measured values
- Residual force on linear impact: 110,8 g
- Risk of concussion: 30 %
Evaluation & conclusion
The Troy Lee Designs A3 looks great, it surrounds the head generously and is comfortably padded. Compared to its predecessor, the A2, however, it loses a lot of ground in the laboratory values and has also become heavier. This is partly due to the magnetic lock and magnetically adjustable break-away visor (small adjustment range). The harness system has been improved, can be adjusted under the ears and runs cleanly on the head. The new A3 costs up to 279.99 euros in stylish special colours.
Stefan Frey
Editor
