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ILM-953Pro Review: A Motorcycle Helmet That Is Modular And Packed With Features

Being a dedicated lover of motorcycles and one of the self-proclaimed "helmet gurus" in my riding circle, I am always looking for gear that offers utmost safety, modern tech and comfort throughout the day. The ILM-953Pro modular helmet pledges to fulfill all that you require in addition to its sleek nature, built-in Bluetooth communication system and DOT Certification for the US market. But what is its truthfulness? Let us test it as I give an honest review upon trying out this helmet.
First Impressions: Branding and Build Quality
The branding of ILM-953Pro is of high quality and comes in different appealing colors right after opening it from the box. It has a logo on the helmet case which gives it a polished professional look. However, upon closer inspection, I couldn't help but notice the striking similarity between this helmet and one made by FreedConn, save for a slightly different communication device design.
One thing that caught my attention was the weight of the helmet itself. It felt heavier than what I expected based on its advertised specifications. This could be saying that ILM had gone into extra trouble reinforcing the helmet making it safer or because there are additional electronics in it as well. Either way, from outside, build quality looks good to me.
Putting It On: A Snug Fit with a Few Snags
Outwardly eager to try on my new ILM-953Pro, I went ahead to slip on the modular chin guard closed over my head, surprisingly enough; opening seemed quite small especially for someone with long hair like me. So putting It comfortably took some effort actually because after flipping up chin guard before wearing helmet resolved this issue thus smoothening process.
Once the helmet was securely in place, I took a moment to appreciate the plush, microfiber lining. Its snugness fit around my face gave me security without being tight at all. The padding felt soft and would possibly be quite porous on hot days.
Pressure Points: A Nagging Issue on Long Rides
As for my initial journey with the ILM-953Pro, things went well in the beginning. Wind noise was minimal and air was efficiently blocked out by the big chin guard. But afterwards, approximately 30 minutes into the ride, I began to feel some discomfort at the top of my head. And these two specific points kept getting worse over time.
These pressure points are not a problem when you are making short trips around town. However, they can quickly turn into an irritation during extended hours of travel on highways or all day long adventures. It is a tragic flaw in an otherwise well-designed helmet that could put off some riders who would otherwise choose comfort first above anything else.
Modular Design: Handy but Not Perfect
The modular helmet's design permits the turning up of the chin guard while stopping or talking with fellow riders. This aspect of the modular helmet was not all that helpful in reality. At least, it was very convenient to lift the visor at red lights or pit stops.Because of this, the modular helmet made it much easier to take a sip, grab a bite, or talk face-to-face compared to using the traditional full-face helmet.
On the other hand, I discovered that riding at high speed with a flipped-up modular helmet guard was not an ideal thing to do. The whole modular helmet tended to move backwards on my head giving me almost a clownish look like a child wearing an oversize ill-fitting helmet. It's not exactly what most riders want. All one needed to do was leave the modular helmet's chin guard locked when moving as it provides great wind protection and stability.
Seamless Visibility in All Conditions: Visor and Sun Shade
One feature that makes this ILM-953Pro stand out is its visor setup. it is primary clear shield has an easy grip and adjustment because it is centered—an anchor point for this component. Additionally, it offers unrestricted view port due to its sealing tightly against helmets in order to lessen draughts incidence around them. An even more astonishing fact is that there's built-in sun glasses within this device. This shaded lens can be lowered quickly by means of a lever located conveniently on one side of user’s headgear without having to stop your vehicle and change your regular eye protector.
One had some minor issues with proximity between the lever controlling sun shade and Bluetooth buttons. A few times when adjusting the visor, I mistakenly pressed communication button by chance blabbering unnecessary things into microphone and annoying everyone online who heard me doing so on their speakers (Real time). It may not sound like something important though you should know it if you are about to start using this helmet.
Clear Calls, Lackluster Audio: Bluetooth Communication
The main attraction of ILM-953Pro is its built-in Bluetooth communication. Controls are in a very good position on the side of the helmet and thus can easily be located even with gloves put on. Getting my phone along with another rider's device compatible paired was an easy task, while intercom system did its job at speeds of up to sixty miles per hour. This had clear voice transmission across, which made it possible for conversations on the way.
However, when considering music playback, ILM-953Pro did not perform well enough. The sound was too thin and hollow without any power behind it and detracted from the enjoyment of having songs playing in your ears while riding around many areas like those ones that have been mentioned above (Real time). It is alright for some light music but definitely will not appeal to people who are really into music or look forward to having a fast paced tune as their background soundtrack during escapades away from home.
Another thing to worry about was vulnerability of Bluetooth controls due to their delicate structure. Even though they might be handy since they are traceable through touch; however, they may get destroyed once the headgear falls off because these buttons remain exposed on its outside surface. But how strong can they be against hits? Therefore, individuals who usually tumble down should think twice before buying them since one cannot predict what will happen at that particular moment (quotes).
Size and Fit: Snuggly Fitted with some Scope for Development
Sizing is one area where the ILM-953Pro runs a little on the smaller side due to the embedded electronics. Therefore, it is important to measure your head carefully and refer to the size chart before making a purchase. Still, you might find that it fits tighter than expected especially if your measurements fall on the cusp between two sizes.
The liners are made using microfiber which is fully removable and washable thus can be maintained clean over time. More so, you will appreciate its adjustable vents which let you control airflow depending on personal preferences as well as prevailing environmental conditions.
It also has a quick release chin strap, something that eases fastening and unfastening of helmets without needing traditional D-rings for secureness. This may seem insignificant but it contributes towards being user-friendly overall when talking about ILM-953Pro.
Summary
I have had mixed feelings about the ILM-953Pro modular helmet after spending some considerable amount of time with it. On one hand, there are many features available at very competitive prices. Bluetooth communication system works great; modularity makes it versatile while visor setup is among best in class. It feels robust as an overall construction product and boasts DOT certification certificates for peace of mind.