The last time we checked in on 6D’s revolutionary trail helmet, it was still mostly a 3D printed prototype. Fast forward a few months and now the finished helmets are in production and headed to store shelves. What makes the newly named 6D ATB-1T (changed from ATB-1A) different? Instead of a single EPS liner with MIPS or other decoupler systems added on to the inside, the ATB-1T two separate EPS liners that are interconnected with 27 elastic isolation dampers. The claim is that this results in superior protection in impacts at any speed…
Looking at the inside of the helmet, you can clearly see the two separate shells with a few of the isolation dampers poking out. The ODS or Omni-Directional Suspension system consists of the 27 dampers connected to an internal structure that is molded into the inner liner. The dampers are then affixed to the outer shell keeping it suspended. That supposedly allows the outer shell to move independently of the inner shell during an impact which is said to significantly reduce linear and angular accelerations to the head and brain. The company offers a ton of specifics on their site, but the short of it is that the helmet within a helmet system claims to be safer and may result in a lower chance of head injury in a crash.
The fine details include a Fidlock magnetic buckle, adjustable fit system with dial, a washable anti-bacterial liner, adjustable visor, and goggle compatibility. 6D has no plans for any camera or light mounts simply because they don’t like the idea of having objects on the helmet during a crash. Helmets are available now M/L size only with the XL/XXL and XS/S sizes due out later this summer, or early fall. Offered in 6 colors, the helmets will sell for $269.95 at dealers or direct from 6D.
