Schuberth E2 - what can it do better than the E1?

When it comes to quality flip-up helmets, it's hard to overlook the German premium brand Schuberth. Since the E1, Schuberth has also offered an adventure flip-up helmet in its lineup, which is based on the C4 Pro but includes typical adventure features such as the adjustable helmet shield. The new E2, which is based on the new C5, is very similar - even if Schuberth prefers that the E2 not be described as a derivative model.

In truth, however, it is an honor to be able to build on the good C5 anyway, which is why the E2 has also made a considerable leap forward compared to the E1 in terms of comfort, ventilation, safety, operation, and features. As a rule, you don't want to try out the topic of safety and can therefore be pleased that the legal regulations make helmets even safer - the E2 certainly complies with the new ECE 22.06 standard, which requires an even more stable helmet shell. This generally makes the helmets heavier, but the shell of the Schuberth E2 is made of carbon-reinforced fiberglass with the patented Direct-Fibre-Technology and is not significantly heavier than the E1. Instead, the engineers have gone to even greater lengths to give the helmet a balanced weight distribution, which actually reduces rider fatigue - the E2 is really well-balanced. The new positioning of the chin strap also contributes to the increased comfort of the E2.

When unfolded, it naturally tends to react strongly to wind turbulence, but remains in its unfolded position even without locking the small red lever (which is necessary to market the E2 as a flip-up helmet with P/J homologation). This is, of course, very convenient. Speaking of comfort, the E2 now uses the "Schuberth Individual Concept," as does the C5, which allows the optimum fit to be found using interchangeable inner pads—because not everyone has the perfect 08/15 head shape! The operation of the chin section opening is unchanged from the E1 in terms of function, but the lever is new and the chin section engages much more precisely when closing the E2. The slider for the sun visor on the left lower edge of the helmet is also new, but the function is largely unchanged, as it already worked perfectly on the E1.

The adjustable helmet shield and, above all, the ventilation of the E2 are now better than the E1. The triple adjustment of the shield was already available on the E1, but thanks to extensive wind tunnel tests, the E2 sits better in the wind than the E1 and produces less noise. The E2 has very pleasant aeroacoustics overall anyway and, like the E1, is in the league of quieter helmets for such an adventure helmet with its many attachments. However, a lot has really changed in terms of ventilation compared to the E1. The two-part chin ventilation is still directed more efficiently towards the visor and the upper, lockable ventilation shovels even more cooling air into the upper area of the helmet, which can now also effectively escape from the back of the helmet on the E2.

A completely new feature of the E2 is the modern communication system, which is actually built into the helmet ex works. For an adventure flip-up helmet, which is used to a very high percentage for long tours, this is certainly an important and correct step by Schuberth. After all, the systems are not only getting better from generation to generation, but also more user-friendly. At Schuberth, the system is called SC2. As already mentioned, the necessary hardware is pre-installed and contains three antennas for Bluetooth Intercom, Mesh Intercom, and FM radio in addition to the HD speakers. For actual use, all you have to do is plug in the microphone, remove the covers on the back and side of the E2 to insert the remote control into the corresponding holder, and install the main unit on the back, and you're ready to go. Even the biggest technophobes should be able to do this. Personally, I was delighted at how little effort is required to connect to other participants, as Mesh 2.0 technology really opens up an unexpectedly wide range of possibilities.