Schuberth C3 Pro Helmet

schuberth_C3_Pro_antenne_readyWe tested a range of motorcycle helmets from across the industry trying to find the ultimate, go anywhere, do anything adventure helmet.

We chose the Aria XD4, and the BILT Explorer Adventure helmet to see if a true dual-sport helmet was the right choice for a our 45 day trip to the tip of South America.  Trampooz also tested out three different modular style helmets.  We were lucky enough to be able to test the Schuberth C3 and C3 Pro, as well as the Shoei Neotec.  To round out the styles we chose the Shoei GT-Air, so we could have a traditional sport bike helmet to compare.

Take a look at the complete breakdown and side-by-side comparison of the helmets we tested here.

Make sure to sign up at Trampooz.com to receive our latest product reviews.  Your can also subscribe to our YouTube channel to receive updates on how the Schuberth C3 Pro modular helmet functioned on our actual trip to South America.

pro_icon

Pros

The C3 Pro is in a category almost on it’s own. The C3 Series was the first, and is still the quietest and lightest modular helmet on the market. From the ratcheting chinstrap, to the superb aerodynamics, Schubert spared nothing on this design. The Pinlock system makes it fog-free, and the built in sun visor adds to its versatility.

cons_icon

Cons

There are really only two not so amazing things about the C3 Pro. The $769.00 MSRP, and locking the flip-up facemask down can be a challenge at times.

Where to buy

 revzilla  amazon  mss-logo  bmw  schuberth_logo
Local BMW Dealership

Color Options

Product Images & Video’s

Check out these detailed video’s on the Schuberth C3 Pro Modular at Revzilla.com

Schuberth C3 Pro Helmet Video Review

C3 Pro vs. Original C3 Helmet Video Review

Schuberth Helmet Sizing Guide

 

The Verdict:

9.7/10

9.7

Summary

The Schuberth C3 Pro helmet is our choice for the ultimate adventure-touring helmet.  It has a compact design, modular flip-up face, and comes stock with all the bells and whistles you can expect in a 21st century helmet.  The C3 Pro is the quietest modular helmet on the market (<84 dBa at 65 mph).  Schuberth was able to shave 2 dBa’s off of the already industry leading original Schuberth C3.

The C3 Pro is also the lightest, and has the smallest circumference of any modular motorcycle helmet available today.  The flip down sun visor makes this helmet even more versatile.  The must have Pinlock visor system is included, creating a helmet almost impervious to fogging in all conditions.  The sophistication of the ventilation system, as well as the placement of tabs and vent locks, is well above the rest.  Although all the helmets we tested where of high quality, they seem to be chasing the capabilities of the C3 and C3 Pro.

From the super plush inner lining, to the anti-roll off system built into the helmet, you can tell that each detail is well thought out.  Every aspect of the C3 Pro Helmet has the long distance adventure-tour rider in mind.  If you are planning on spending weeks & months in your helmet, doing tens of thousands of miles, there is no better helmet than the C3 Pro from Schuberth.

Warranty & Customer Service (10/10)

The C3 Pro has an industry leading, 5-year warranty from the date of purchase, and a 7-year warranty from the date of manufacture.  Schuberth has a program that will replace your C3 Pro for 1/3 the retail cost during the first 3 years, if the helmet is in an accident.

Schuberth’s Mobility Program Details

Note from the manufacture: “All Schuberth products are constantly subjected to the most stringent quality controls. Our authorized dealers offer you a service, which covers all aspects of your Schuberth helmet. If you have any questions or complaints, please contact your Schubert dealer. Naturally you have a two-year guarantee on all Schuberth products.”

Bang for Your Buck (9/10)

The C3 Pro from Schuberth is the most expensive helmet we tested.  That price has many justifications. The C3 Pro has every upgrade imaginable.  When you read about all the features and upgrades that the C3 Pro has, it will be easy to understand why it cost more than the rest.  You can’t have the best quality product, put more into research and development, include more features, and charge less.  It just doesn’t work like that.

If you are looking for the very best in motorcycle helmet technology, with the highest safety ratings, wrapped up in the lightest, most soundproof modular shell, then this is the one for you my friend.  Bang for your buck, you get what you pay for.  It’s the best, so it cost the most.

Ventilation & Noise (10/10)

It is hard to explain the difference in quality a schuberth has above other premium helmets.  Anyone can look at the statistics on the website and feel confident that they are getting a highly technical, top-notch helmet.  But once you have the C3 Pro on your head, you know it’s in a class of it’s own.

The C3 Pro from Schuberth is ahead of the collection when it comes to noise and ventilation.  The manufacture boasts the quietest modular helmet on the market (<84 dBa at 65 mph).  The ventilation is well thought out and is the quietest of all the helmets we tested at high speeds, including heavy winds.

Note from the manufacture:

“A quiet helmet means active safety for the motorcyclist: this permits the rider to concentrate on riding – particularly at higher speeds.  Many hours in the Schuberth acoustics wind tunnel have ensured that the C3 Pro is quiet. The comprehensive acoustics package with optimized helmet shell, wind deflector and ergonomic shape of the neck padding make the C3 Pro – at 82 dBA – one of the quietest helmets of all.”

Being comfortable while riding at highway speeds, for long distances, is key for long tour riding.  Schuberth designed the C3 Pro with the dual-sport adventure tour rider in mind.  When tested at speeds higher than 100 mph, there were virtually no buffeting or uplift, even in the upright riding position.  The aerodynamics of the C3 Pro is such, that the rider barley notices any resistance from air as it passes by the helmet.  The design is leaps and bounds ahead of any other helmet we have tested.  Once you have ridden in the C3 Pro for 500 miles, over 8 hours, you will know why they cost as much as they do.  The C3 Pro is just better than everyone else, period.

schuberth_C3_Pro_aerodynamic_position

Note from the manufacture:

“The C3 Pro has been specially designed for the riding posture on normal and sportive tours and also remains stable in the airflow at high speeds (> 160 km/h). The special shape of the helmet shell with an integrated spoiler plus an aerodynamically optimized straight end edge ensures appreciably enhanced down force. Even at higher speeds the C3 Pro develops practically no upward lift. The C3 Pro also offers reduced wind resistance and optimized directionally stability. With closed machines, the buffeting is also significantly minimized”

schuberth_C3_Pro_Pinlock_lens

The Pinlock system makes the visor on the C3 Pro almost fog proof.  We have personally put thousands of miles into this helmet, and couldn’t be happier with its performance in regard to fogging. Even in weather conditions below freezing, including rain, sleet and some snow, the C3 Pro showed only minimal fogging in the corners where the pinlock system doesn’t cover.

schuberth_C3_Pro_chin_vent (1)

Note from the manufacture:

“The C3 Pro is equipped with a further development of the proven C3 ventilation system. Thanks to the new design of the ventilation elements, the supply of fresh air is increased by up to 30%. The combination of multipath channels in the EPS foam shell and the head/chin/mouth ventilation ensure that fresh air is distributed effectively over the entire head area.  The air channels in the inner shell direct the air which enters through the forehead ventilation well over the back of the head to the rear of the helmet. The low pressure prevailing at the rear of the helmet ensures that the internal air is constantly extracted through the air outlets and the special netting in the neck padding. Up to 9 liters of fresh air at 100 km/h “

The C3 Pro performed better than any of the other helmets with the Sena Bluetooth system, especially for hearing GPS directions.  As far as communications between riders, both on Bluetooth and off, the C3 Pro allows for easy interaction with everything and everyone around the rider.  Even at speeds exceeding 100 MPH, and on rides for over 10 hours, there was no need for earplugs.  We were even able to use the Sena Bluetooth system to communicate off-road, with the visors up at speeds exceeding 45 mph, with minimal distraction from wind.

Note from the manufacture about acoustic basics:

“Sound intensity is a phenomenon which can be explained logarithmically/mathematically. A 10 dB(A) jump in noise level is perceived by the human ear as a doubling of the noise level. Conversely a drop of 10 dB(A) is perceived as a halving of the noise level. Physically these changes in the perceived noise level already occur at an increase or decrease of 6 dB (A). This means that the increase/decrease in the physical load is higher than the one perceived.”

Features (10/10)

The C3 Pro has more features than any other helmet we evaluated.  Unique features of the C3 Pro, include the built in antenna for integration with Schuberth’s SRC-System.  The ratcheting chinstrap is also unique to the C3 models in this line up, and happens to be one of our favorite features.  The flip-up modular style allows for much appreciated comfort and communication.  The C3 Pro comes stock with a Pinlock Lens system included, has a built in sun visor, and the entire lens is removable within seconds without tools. All of these features have the long distance, go anywhere, under any condition rider in mind.

schuberth_C3_Pro_antenne_ready

The C3 Pro is prewired for integration with the SRC-System.  Again Schuberth has set the bar in the industry.  The SRC-S shows us how Bluetooth to motorcycle helmet communication should be done.  We have not tested the SRC-System ourselves, but hope to get our hands on one soon.  The system integrates directly into the bottom of the helmet, embedding the controls into the padding.  The SRC-System from Schuberth is assuredly paving the path for better Bluetooth to motorcycle helmet integration.

 

schuberth_C3_Pro_SRC-System

Note from the manufacture:

“The C3 Pro is by default equipped to accommodate the SCHUBERTH SRC-System™ C3 Pro. To guarantee ideal radio reception for you, the C3 Pro is already equipped with two integrated antennas to boost reception and a Bluetooth® connection“

 

schuberth_C3_Pro_ratchet_chinstrapThe ratchet system on the C3 Pro does not require the rider to take their gloves off to remove the helmet.  We have a hard time understanding why all motorcycle helmets don’t come with this system; it is superior in everyway we can tell.  The ratchet strap is adjustable at both ends, allowing the rider the ability to customize the length to the correct position.  We found that extending the ratchet system out to the point where it is in the ideal position, completely activated, allowed for the most comfort and ease of use.

 

schuberth_C3_Pro_flipupmask_sunvisorWe found the modular style of helmet is best suited for adventure tour riding.  The modular flip-up face on the C3 Pro has made wearing a helmet much more enjoyable.  On day trips we even forget to take the C3 Pro off when entering restaurants and other businesses, because it is so comfortable and versatile.  The flip-up facemask of the C3 Pro even makes getting things in and out of jacket chest pockets easier.  When the facemask is in the open position, you can see what you are doing, and communicate freely.  Asking for directions, or trying to communicate with anyone on and off the road, has become much easier now that we are wearing modular helmets.
schuberth_c3_pro_helmet_openThe only complaint, if it really is a complaint, is that the flip-up facemask is sometimes difficult to latch down.  We attribute this to the Anti-roll off system, and find it a fair trade off for the sealed in comfort the C3 Pro offers once it is closed.  It does sometimes take more than one try to securely lock it into place.

 

schuberth_C3_Pro_ventilationThe integrated sun visor, and Pinlock anti-fog system, as well as the chin curtain all add even more comfort and versatility into the C3 Pro modular helmet.  If Schuberth could incorporate a helmet “peak” visor to block shaded areas while off-road, the C3 pro would truly be the best motorcycle helmet for every possible world travel situation.

Safety & Comfort (9.5/10)

schuberth_C3_Pro_a.r.o.sThe C3 Pro was the most comfortable, and safest feeling helmet of the bunch.  Unique features to the C3 Pro include, the anti-roll off system, which guarantees that the helmet cannot pivot off the head from behind once it is latched down.  The A.R.O.S also reduces the chance of the helmet coming into contact with a rider’s chest if in an accident.  The C3 Pro includes reflective areas that improve the helmets visibility in the dark.  The Schuberth C3 Pro is the only modular helmet that is ECE Certified in our line up.

 

Note from the manufacture:

“The Anti-Roll-Off System (A.R.O.S.) especially developed by SCHUBERTH is provided as a safety feature in every SCHUBERTH motorcycle helmet. It ensures that provided the chinstrap is closed and correctly adjusted: The helmet cannot pivot off the head from behind, the risk of contact between the chin section of the helmet and the chin or throat of the rider is minimized due to the small angle of tilt and the consequences of the helmet coming into contact with the chest as the result of an accident are reduced.”

schuberth_C3_Pro_eps_liner The shell of the helmet is made of a fiberglass composite called S.T.R.O.N.G. fiber, which is credited for the helmets lightweight.  The helmet is not only lighter; the entire circumference is minimized, allowing for a more natural look and feel. The inner shell is composed of special EPS foam material that ensures ultimate shock absorption.

Note from the manufacture:

“The outer shell of the C3 Pro is offered in two helmet shell sizes and combines an aerodynamically optimal shape with excellent protection. It is manufactured using Schuberth’s typical compression molding process and thus permits great stability and a low weight. The inner shell made of special EPS foam is modular in design to ensure optimal shock absorption. This complex segmentation guarantees enhanced force absorption and distribution and maximum safety.”

schuberth_C3_Pro_earpadsThe inner lining of the C3 Pro is the most comfortable of the collection by leaps and bounds.  The superiority of the material is very apparent when it is put side by side with the other helmet liners.  The C3 Pro is made up of a combination of materials including COOLMAX, Thermocool, and Interpower coating.  These materials make the inner liner of the C3 Pro highly breathable, cool even in the hottest situations.  All of the pads are removable for cleaning.  Schuberth also makes optional cheek pads to help further customize your helmet.

 

schuberth_C3_Pro_liner

Note from the manufacture:

“A special inner lining of the C3 Pro which was developed according to the innovative Comfort Fit concept ensures that the helmet fits comfortably and securely in all situations. The combination of carefully selected COOLMAX® and Thermocool® materials and the additional use of Interpower® coatings also make the inner lining a highly-effective moisture removal and cooling system.”

schuberth_C3_Pro_reflective_Padding

The C3 pro is the only helmet to include reflexive areas, adding even more safety for night riding.  The C3 Pro is the only helmet we tested that met the standards of both ECE and DOT Certification.

Note from the manufacture:

“ECE-R 22.05 – This test standard guarantees conformity to defined safety standards in respect of impact absorption, penetration resistance, lateral rigidity, retention system and field of vision.

The approval guarantees that you have approval for all the countries which recognize the ECE standard.”

Manufacture Description

SCHUBERTH C3 Pro – The most sportive flip-up helmet ever

The new spoiler, which has been optimized in the wind tunnel, turns the C3 Pro into a real sport helmet, which also demonstrates outstanding aerodynamic properties at high speeds in excess of 160 km/h. With its further enhanced aeroacoustics of 82 dB(A) at 100 km/h the C3 Pro is one of the quietest helmets in the world. Naturally the new C3 Pro also incorporates two integrated antennas for increased ranges and better FM radio reception – prepared for the fully integrated communication unit SRC-System™. The suspension, made of carefully selected materials such as COOLMAX®, Interpower® and Thermocool®, sets new benchmarks with respect to comfort.

The Rolls Royce of motorcycle helmets, the Schuberth C3 Pro has been designed to improve on the original C3, which was already one of the quietest and most technologically advanced helmets to date. The rear spoiler, which has been optimized during extensive wind tunnel testing, turns the C3 Pro into a real sport helmet, demonstrating outstanding aerodynamic properties at high speeds in excess of 100 mph. With its enhanced aeroacoustics of 82 dB(A) at 100 km/h the C3 Pro is one of the quietest helmets in the world.

 

The C3 Pro is also prepared to accept the integrated Schuberth SCR System, the C3 Pro also incorporates two integrated antennas for increased Bluetooth range and better FM radio reception. The inner lining is made of carefully selected materials such as COOLMAX, Interpower and Thermocool and has been extensively re-shaped and redesigned setting high benchmarks with respect to comfort.

Features:

  • The shell is aerodynamically tuned, providing more down force and reducing buffeting
  • Interior helmet sound levels have been reduced to 82 dB(A) at 60 mph {C3 84 dB(A)}
  • Interior liner has been designed with fewer seams and a more universal interior fit
  • Improved EPS with integrated antennas for SRC-System which improves radio and Bluetooth range
  • Micro-lock ratchet chin strap
  • Large reflective panels on neckroll
  • Improved faceshield ratchet mechanism
  • Integrated sun visor

Acoustics: A quiet helmet means active safety for the motorcyclist. This permits the rider to concentrate on riding – particularly at higher speeds. Many hours in the Schuberth acoustics wind tunnel have ensured that the C3 Pro is as quiet as Schuberth could make it. The comprehensive acoustics package with optimized helmet shell, wind deflector and ergonomic shape of the neck padding make the C3 Pro – at 82 dBA – one of the quietest helmets on the market.

  • Acoustics package makes helmet quiet
  • Installation of a wind deflector further improves aeroacoustics
  • Only 82dB(A) at 100 km per hour (with naked bikes)

Outer Shell: The outer shell of the Schuberth C3 Pro is offered in two helmet shell sizes and combines an aerodynamically optimal shape with excellent protection. It is manufactured using Schuberth’s typical compression molding process and thus permits great stability and a low weight.

  • Shell material: S.T.R.O.N.G. fiber
  • Helmet shell technology from SCHUBERTH permits low weight
  • Glass fiber with a special resin added is compressed in a vacuum at high pressure to form a helmet shell which is exceptionally sturdy
  • Perfected aerodynamics for higher speeds
  • Upward lift = 0!
  • Directionally stable
  • No oscillatory tendency
  • No buffeting
  • Spoiler integrated into the helmet shell

SRC-System Ready: The C3 Pro equipped to accommodate the SCHUBERTH SRC-System C3 Pro (sold separately). To guarantee ideal radio reception, the C3 Pro is already equipped with two integrated antennas to boost FM and Bluetooth reception.

Optimum reception at all times

FM and Bluetooth antennas integrated into the helmet for optimum reception

EPS: The EPS foam liner is modular in design to ensure optimal shock absorption. This complex segmentation guarantees enhanced force absorption and distribution.

Made of specially optimized EPS foam

Complex multizone foaming allows optimal shock absorption

Inner Lining: A special inner lining of the C3 Pro which was developed according to Schuberth’s innovative Comfort Fit concept that ensures the helmet fits comfortably and securely in all situations. The combination of carefully selected COOLMAX and Thermocool materials, with the additional use of Interpower coatings, also make the inner lining a highly-effective moisture removal and cooling system.

  • COOLMAX pad system, completely removable and washable (hand wash, 30°C)
  • Optimized fit
  • Variable venting for effective ventilation
  • Adjustable for summer/winter
  • Allergen-free
  • Antibacterial
  • Removable comfort cheek and head band pads

Ventilation: Thanks to the design of the vents, the supply of fresh air is increased by up to 60%. The combination of multipath channels in the EPS foam liner and the head/chin/mouth ventilation ensures that fresh air is distributed effectively over the entire head area.

A.R.O.S. and Neck Strap: The Anti-Roll-Off System (A.R.O.S.) was especially developed by SCHUBERTH as a safety feature and is incorporated into every SCHUBERTH motorcycle helmet. It ensures that the helmet cannot roll off of the head when the chinstrap is closed and correctly adjusted:

  • The helmet cannot pivot off the head from behind
  • The risk of contact between the chin section of the helmet and the chin or throat of the rider is minimized due to the small angle of tilt
  • Reduces the chance of the helmet coming into contact with the chest as the result of an accident
  • Precise setting of the chinstrap length through adjustment on both sides
  • Micro-lock ratchet lock

Face Shield: The EasyChange visor mechanism makes changing visors extremely quick and simple without the use of tools.

City position offers maximum ventilation while traveling at slower speeds

Pinlock visor prevents shield from fogging

DOT and ECE certified

If you require any information, you can contact the Schuberth Service Centre.

Schuberth GmbH
Stegelitzer Strasse 12
D-39126 Magdeburg
Germany

Phone: +49 (0)391 8106-555
Fax: +49 (0)391 8106-228
Email: kundenservice(at)schuberth.de