Klim TK1200 Karbon Modular Helmet | Review
Klim is a premium motorcycle gear manufacturer with roots deeply planted in the off-road, ADV and snowmobile markets. However, the Idaho-based company’s prowess does not stop when the pavement starts. A case in point is Klim’s innovative offering for touring riders, the TK1200 Karbon modular helmet.
One thing is clear right off the bat — this thing is light. Our test helmet floated out of the box at just over 3 pounds. Hyperbole aside, that places it among the lightest modular helmets on the market.
Obviously, the carbon-fiber construction is a major factor in the helmet’s lack of heft. However, Klim’s proprietary, light-adaptive face shield also contributes to the weight reduction. Rather than a secondary internal sun visor — a feature on most modular helmets — the TK1200 sports a Transitions face shield that morphs from clear to tinted with changing light conditions.
Fit and finish are what you would expect from a premium helmet. On our test unit, the Architek Vivid version, the carbon fiber weave is prominently displayed under the clear coat on the helmet’s crown and high visibility accents abound. It’s an attractive lid.
The center button-actuated chin bar is engineered to break away in a crash when in the open position. This is a significant safety feature. The shield is raised and lowered with a substantial molded bottom lip, and chin and brow vents are opened and closed with slide gates. The chin strap features a quick-release ratcheting system rather than the traditional D-ring closure.
The TK1200 feels as light on the road as it does in the hands. The liner is plush and the helmet is comfortable. The only pressure point that I experienced was a slight compression of the lower ear, which was present even with the ear pocket pads removed. At speed, I found the TK1200 to be quiet and aerodynamic.
Despite having a smallish chin bar button, it is quite easy to find and actuate with a gloved hand. The brow vent provides good airflow and is also easy to slide with a gloved hand. The chin vent sits just below the shield lift and can be slightly harder to locate.
Finally, the face shield is spectacular. The darkening and lightening properties are remarkably fast and effective, and the field of vision is expansive and distortion-free.
At a list price of $599, the TK1200 sits in the company of other premium helmets. It meets DOT and ECE safety standards, and is available in sizes S-2XL in several colors. The impressive list of features and innovations makes Klim’s lid worthy of serious consideration for a touring rider.
For more information, visit klim.com.
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