The Klim GT1 Expedition is a hand-laid, full carbon-fiber modular helmet that incorporates a proprietary chinbar, hinge plate and impact-absorption materials exclusive to Klim.
By Keith Dowdle
The design allows for easy and intuitive opening of the chinbar. When closed, the chinbar is flush with the shell to create a smooth, aerodynamic seam-sealed closure, with no part of the chinbar protruding. The GT1 comes with a clear shield, a photochromic shield and a Pinlock—all of which are easily installed without the need for tools and are rated for Optical Class 1 clarity and HD vision, even with the Pinlock anti-fog lens installed.
Ventilation is achieved via an adjustable top vent and two ratcheting chin vents—one for direct ventilation through the helmet and the other to prevent fogging of the shield. All the forward-facing vents are assisted by four low-pressure exhaust vents on the back of the shell, which pull air through the shell’s unique Koroyd impact-absorbent material. Koroyd is a honeycomb-like material which, along with upper and lower EPS foam layers, provides ECE 22.06 level protection for both impact and rotational force absorption. The helmet’s removable interior liner is made of perforated goat-leather suede and Brrr°, a trademarked antimicrobial and moisture-wicking material. The GT1 is offered in sizes XS through 3X across three outer shell sizes for optimal weight and aerodynamic performance.
Lowdown | Klim GT1 Expedition Helmet
Standout Feature: Modular functionality without the goofy-looking chinbar design found in most other modular helmets
Best-looking modular on the market
Excellent ventilation
Superior optics
Sizing can be tricky
List Price: $203 to $389
Rider Analysis | Klim GT1 Expedition Helmet
Upon receiving the new Klim GT1 Expedition, I immediately removed the clear shield and replaced it with the included photochromic shield and Pinlock insert. Swapping the shield couldn’t be easier, thanks to the clever toolless, self-calibrating side-plate mechanism. Both shields provide excellent field of vision and infrared insulation to help keep the heat out, but I absolutely love the Klim photochromic shields and use them on every Klim helmet I own.
Speaking of my other Klim helmets, all of them are size medium and fit me perfectly; however, that wasn’t the case with the GT1. The original helmet I tried was a medium, but I quickly realized it was much too tight. I swapped the cheekpads from the standard 35mm to the 30mm set, and while that made a difference, the helmet still didn’t fit me comfortably. Ultimately, I settled on a large. I would suggest that you visit your local Klim retailer before purchasing the GT1 to be sure that you get the correct size.
Once properly fitted, I found this to be an exceptionally comfortable helmet, with the quality of materials and the fit and finish I’ve come to expect from Klim. The chinbar latch is easy and intuitive to operate, and I didn’t find myself fumbling to open it as I have with other modulars. A simple push out and up, and the chinbar is raised and stays in place until you’re ready to latch it closed as speeds increase. The nice thing about a modular helmet is that on hot days, if you’re riding at lower speeds, you can pop open the chinbar to let air flow through, talk to people without yelling, or eat a snack. But you want to know that the chinbar is going to stay up and not come crashing down when you’re not expecting it. The GT1 chinbar is light, thanks to its carbon-fiber construction, and the latch mechanism is solid and precise. This instills confidence, both from a protection standpoint and in knowing that it will stay in place when it’s raised.
I installed a Cardo PackTalk Pro with a boom microphone, which worked well in the GT1, and the mic didn’t interfere with raising or lowering the chinbar. The sound from the Cardo system was excellent, thanks to the GT1’s super-quiet interior. Klim didn’t forget how real customers use this type of helmet, and the build is ready for easy installation of the most popular communication systems.
Ventilation is excellent, and I love the ratcheting lower vents. Because they’re spring-loaded, they are easy to open and they stay open, even at freeway speeds. The vent on the top of the helmet is easy to operate and clearly indicates whether it’s open or closed. The Koroyd impact-absorption material and the channeled EPS foam keep air moving through the helmet and are designed to prevent excessive heat buildup inside the helmet, making long days under a hot sun safer and more enjoyable.
Klim employs the idea of passive and active protection in all their products. Passive protection keeps the rider alert by ensuring they’re cool and comfortable, while active protection uses technology in the equipment to protect the rider in the event of a crash. This concept is tangible in this helmet, as you can clearly see, touch and feel the level of thought and innovation that went into developing this premium product.
It’s not inexpensive at $999.99, but you pay for what you get, and what you get with the GT1 Expedition is a top-quality, great-looking helmet with ECE 22.06-level protection and modular functionality without the goofy-looking chinbar you see on other modular designs. For my money, the styling, functionality and highest level of protection are worth every penny.
For more information, visit www.klim.com
Click here to read the Klim GT1 Expedition Helmet Product Review in the Cycle News Digital Edition Magazine.
