By MARK Heid

CASTLE-X CX935 motorcycle helmet is one of

We recently decided it was time for new helmets when Tammy broke a piece of her three-quarter, full-face shield helmet, and my modular was discovered to be well beyond the recommended five-year lifespan.

There are many types, styles, and manufacturers available, but determining a style and price range quickly narrows the selection process down. Our goal was to find DOT-certified, modular helmets with internal sun shields in the $ 200 price range.

There is a school of thought that says you should buy the very best helmet you can afford; however, I ' m more of a ' quality gear at reasonable prices ' kind of guy. I ride with Fieldsheer and First Gear products,

not Klim or Aerostich. I like to think of myself as frugal or budget-conscious, though Tammy has used other words and compared me to my Great Depression-era father.

A visit to our local motorcycle shop quickly revealed that unless you had an extra-small or five XL head, there were no modular helmets in stock or even available for order from HJC, G-Max, or Fly. However, the salesman was able to order a couple of Castle-X CX935 helmets and have them delivered on short notice. They were $ 180 each and had all the features we were looking for.

Upon receiving the helmets, we were pleasantly surprised at the fit, finish, and construction of the CX935. It fits true to size and was quite comfortable, with no tight spots or pressure points. The chin strap features a quick-release mechanism and is easy to operate. The chin bar features a single-button action and a simple locking mechanism to hold it in place when desired. The drop-down sun shield is easy to operate and is positioned well away from the face to ensure it does not rest on your nose. Another nice feature is the chin curtain

, which reduces wind, noise, dust, and debris and helps hold my beard in place. Castle-X claims aerodynamic features and advanced ventilation, which provide good airflow through the helmet liner system.

The helmet fits comfortably around the ears and cheeks and is compatible with communication devices. The entire interior padding system is removable and washable. Those who wear glasses will appreciate the cheek pad design and open field of view, making this helmet eyeglass-friendly. Optional cheek pads can be purchased to provide a custom fit, but the standard cheek pads fit Tammy and me just fine.

After several trips with the new helmets, we have found them to be reasonably light, quiet, and designed high enough that they don ' t rub on coat collars and riding vests. Our initial thoughts on the Castle-X CX935 modular helmet are overwhelmingly positive, and we look forward to many miles and years of safe, comfortable riding ahead. CMA

Mark and Tammy Heid oversee the Rocky Mountain Region as National Evangelist.

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