European dealers who have been waiting for the vintage-inspired Biltwell Gringo and Gringo S helmets to meet ECE regulations need wait no longer – the California-based company has announced that all 2019 models of the popular full-face helmet line will not only meet DOT regulations, but also those of the even more stringent ECE.
“Designed by riders, for riders,” these helmets “harken back to the days when things were simpler and helmets weren’t festooned with ridiculous graphics and superfluous widgets,” says Biltwell co-founder Bill Bryant, and while the design might be rooted in yesteryear, the quality of construction and materials involved are thoroughly contemporary.
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| Gringo |
The injection molded shells are lightweight, the paint quality is “superior to helmets costing twice as much and the buttery interior now includes pockets in the ear recess area for communication systems.
“The original Gringo helmet gave fans of the retro/modern motorcycle movement a safe place to put their heads. Assembled by hand and featuring a hand-painted ABS thermoplastic outer shell for lasting beauty and maximum impact attenuation, inside they feature a three-piece EPS safety liner and urethane chin bar padding that meets both US DOT and ECE R22.05 safety standards for motorcycle riding.
“Gringo’s removable liner and cheek pads are hand-stitched with open-cell foam for breathability and feature moisture-wicking fleece Lycra touch points and polyester vent panels for all-day riding comfort.”
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| Gringo S |
Biltwell offers accessory cheek pads in a variety of different thicknesses so the face-fit can be customized specifically for the rider. The generous eye port is said to provide great peripheral vision and is large enough to accommodate sunglasses or Biltwell goggles.
“A less-is-more aesthetic sets the standard for comfort and style among retro/modern safety gear for riders,” says Bill, “and now our enduring favorite is ECE certified for motorcycle operation. Europe’s stringent R22.05 test protocol is recognized as the highest standard in the world for rider safety.
“Offering both US DOT and ECE certification means you can wear Gringo S with confidence. Boasting the same safety and comfort technologies as our Lane Splitter, Gringo S looks right at home on every motorcycle in your stable, from scooter to shovelhead.”
The CE-certified polycarbonate shield is injection molded for maximum optical clarity and features a scratch-resistant treatment to fight microscopic road debris. Gringo S can be outfitted with accessory bubbles and flat shields in a wide range of colors and tints to fine-tune the style and vision, and its liner is removable for cleaning or replacement.
Both Biltwell helmets are available in sizes ranging from XS to XXL and there are ten different paint finishes per model “to satisfy the pickiest rider.”
BILTWELL INC.
www.biltwellinc.com