Ryan Nitzen | September 8, 2024
6D’s ATR-3 helmet is the newest release from the helmet-only brand. The ATR-3 features the company’s fifth-generation Omni-Directional Suspension (ODS) system, along with a rebuildable design and a three-year warranty. The new lid features a new 3K carbon composite shell, redesigned elastomers, overhauled air vents, a removable roost guard, and a magnetic chin-strap clasp. The ATR-3 also exceeds the latest DOT, ECE 22-06, FIM 02, and ACU certification standards.
6D’s new ATR-3 helmet features several updates over the previous ATR-2.
Lowdown | 6D Helmets ATR-3 Off-Road Helmet
Standout Features: 6D’s Omni-Directional Suspension system and rebuildable design.
List Price: $794.95
Lighter than previous generation
Better ventilation
New colors look better than before
Top-tier helmets are expensive
Give and take with ventilation versus sound
Rider Analysis | 6D Helmets ATR-3 Off-Road Helmet
I’ve now ridden in all three of the 6D helmet generations—the ATR 1, 2 and 3—and I think this one, by far, looks the best. The new shell, shape, mouthpiece and colors are hands down the coolest versions to date. If nothing else, the helmet looks much more racey and less like the final piece of a space suit. We chose the Nova design in the matte white/carbon color for its universal style with various gear combos.
The new design looks better with a sleeker and more stylish shape.
The fit of the helmet is true to size, as the large spec fits just as I’d come to expect with the previous generations. The padding is soft and cushy, but we’d want nothing else in a new lid. 6D claims the helmet is lighter than before, but it’s hard to tell any real weight differences when wearing the ATR-3. Inside, the “ear pockets” are more comfortable and seem to hold ear, cheek and chin areas more comfy. The eye port creates a wide field of view, and the removable roost guard is convenient when changing goggle brands or running a pair with a built-in nose guard. The fool-proof magnetic clasp on the strap is another nice touch I was especially thankful for after breaking the snap-button design on my ATR-2.
I noticed the updated air ventilation most when riding in the ATR-3. The new helmet offers more air vents than the previous one, keeping my head noticeably cooler. You can see these channels at the front of the helmet just above the rider’s forehead. This “ram air” design forces air into the helmet and keeps things cool inside the lid. There is a slight tradeoff between ventilation and sound, and the new helmet might be a click or two louder than before. It’s not obnoxiously loud, and I’d make this trade any day, especially during these summer motos.
The “ram air” vents on the rider’s brow increase airflow within the helmet.
Overall, the 6D ATR-3 ticks all my boxes when looking for a new helmet. It’s a top-of-the-line lid that packs a ton of tech into a slimmer new design. The rebuildable design is another huge selling point when investing the $750-plus into a new helmet. 6D stands behind their product and offers a full rebuild solution should you suffer a crash and damage the helmet. The new shape and colors are just icing on the cake regarding style and protection.CN
Learn more at www.6dhelmets.com
