Hey there, gearheads! Today, we're diving deep into the Nolan N100-5 Plus Distinctive 21, a modular helmet that's been making waves in the riding community. If you're in the market for a new lid that offers versatility, comfort, and safety, you've come to the right place. We'll break down everything you need to know about this helmet, from its features and design to its performance and overall value. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Unveiling the Nolan N100-5 Plus Distinctive 21

The Nolan N100-5 Plus Distinctive 21 is more than just a helmet; it's a statement. It represents Nolan's commitment to innovation and rider safety. This helmet is a culmination of years of research, development, and real-world testing. Nolan has truly listened to the feedback from riders and incorporated numerous improvements and refinements into this latest iteration of their popular N100 series. The "Distinctive 21" moniker hints at the unique design elements and color schemes that set this model apart, making it a visually appealing choice for riders who want to stand out from the crowd. Its shell, made from high-quality polycarbonate, ensures excellent impact resistance while keeping the weight manageable for long rides. The aerodynamic design reduces wind noise and drag, enhancing the overall riding experience. Plus, the helmet features a fully adjustable ventilation system to keep you cool and comfortable in various weather conditions. It’s designed to meet the needs of touring riders, commuters, and anyone who values flexibility in their gear.

Key Features and Design

When it comes to key features of Nolan N100-5 Plus Distinctive 21, this helmet is loaded with them, making it a top contender in the modular helmet market. The dual-action chin guard opening system is a standout, allowing for easy one-handed operation. This means you can quickly and safely transition from a full-face to an open-face configuration while on the go, a huge plus for riders who frequently stop and start or who enjoy the freedom of an open-face helmet in certain situations. The elliptical chin guard rotation minimizes the frontal area when open, reducing the risk of accidental closure. Another great feature is the Ultrawide visor, which offers an expansive field of vision, enhancing safety and awareness on the road. The inner Pinlock® fog-resistant lens ensures clear visibility in all weather conditions, a must-have for those unpredictable rides. The VPS (Vision Protection System) sunscreen provides UV 400 protection and is easily retractable, shielding your eyes from the sun's glare. The Clima Comfort inner padding is not only removable and washable but also made from environmentally sustainable fabrics, ensuring a comfortable and hygienic fit. The microlock2 retention system provides precise and secure closure. The N-Com communication system readiness allows for seamless integration of your favorite Bluetooth devices. The design of the helmet is both functional and stylish, with sleek lines and a variety of color options to suit your personal taste. The Distinctive 21 graphics add a touch of flair, making this helmet a head-turner on the road.

Comfort and Ventilation

Speaking of comfort and ventilation of the Nolan N100-5 Plus Distinctive 21, Nolan really nailed it with this helmet. The Clima Comfort inner padding is a game-changer, using breathable and hypoallergenic materials to keep you cool and comfortable even on long rides. The padding is also removable and washable, so you can keep your helmet fresh and clean. The cheek pads are designed to provide a snug and secure fit, while also being easy to remove for cleaning or replacement. Ventilation is another area where this helmet shines. The Airbooster Technology system ensures optimal airflow, with multiple vents strategically placed to maximize cooling. The upper vents draw cool air in, while the rear extractors remove hot, stale air, creating a constant flow of ventilation. The chin vent is also adjustable, allowing you to customize the airflow to your liking. Whether you're riding in hot summer weather or cooler temperatures, you can easily adjust the ventilation to stay comfortable. The neck roll is also designed to provide additional comfort and support, reducing pressure points and preventing neck fatigue. The helmet's aerodynamic design also contributes to comfort by reducing wind noise and turbulence, making for a smoother and quieter ride. All these features combine to make the Nolan N100-5 Plus one of the most comfortable modular helmets on the market.

Safety Features

When we talk about safety features of the Nolan N100-5 Plus Distinctive 21, it is packed with features designed to keep you safe on the road. The polycarbonate shell provides excellent impact resistance, protecting your head in the event of a crash. The dual-action chin guard opening system ensures that the chin bar stays securely locked in place during a collision, providing full-face protection. The EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) liner is designed to absorb and dissipate energy, further reducing the risk of head injuries. The Ultrawide visor provides an expansive field of vision, enhancing your awareness of your surroundings and reducing the risk of accidents. The Pinlock® fog-resistant lens ensures clear visibility in all weather conditions, preventing fogging that can impair your vision. The VPS (Vision Protection System) sunscreen provides UV 400 protection, shielding your eyes from the sun's glare and reducing eye fatigue. The microlock2 retention system provides a secure and adjustable fit, ensuring that the helmet stays in place during a crash. The helmet is also ECE 22.05 certified, meeting the European safety standards for motorcycle helmets. Nolan goes above and beyond to ensure that their helmets provide the highest level of protection, and the N100-5 Plus is no exception. With its combination of impact-resistant materials, advanced safety features, and attention to detail, this helmet gives you peace of mind knowing that you're well-protected on the road.

Riding Experience

Based on riding experience, the Nolan N100-5 Plus Distinctive 21 delivers a top-notch riding experience, combining comfort, safety, and convenience in one package. The helmet's lightweight design and aerodynamic shape make it comfortable to wear on long rides, reducing neck fatigue and wind resistance. The adjustable ventilation system keeps you cool and dry in hot weather, while the Pinlock® lens prevents fogging in cold and wet conditions. The Ultrawide visor provides excellent visibility, giving you a clear view of the road ahead. The dual-action chin guard opening system is easy to use with one hand, allowing you to quickly and safely switch between full-face and open-face modes. The Clima Comfort inner padding is soft and plush, providing a comfortable and secure fit. The helmet is also compatible with the N-Com communication system, allowing you to easily connect your Bluetooth devices for music, phone calls, and intercom communication. The noise level is well-managed, thanks to the helmet's aerodynamic design and snug fit. Whether you're commuting to work, touring the countryside, or hitting the track, the Nolan N100-5 Plus provides a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable riding experience. The helmet's versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of riding styles and conditions, making it a great choice for any rider.

Pros and Cons

Let's weigh the pros and cons of the Nolan N100-5 Plus Distinctive 21 to give you a balanced view.

Pros:

• Versatile: The modular design allows for both full-face and open-face configurations.
• Comfortable: The Clima Comfort inner padding and adjustable ventilation system ensure a comfortable fit in various conditions.
• Safe: The polycarbonate shell, EPS liner, and dual-action chin guard provide excellent protection.
• Convenient: The Ultrawide visor, Pinlock® lens, and VPS sunscreen enhance visibility and reduce glare.
• Feature-rich: The helmet is packed with features like the N-Com compatibility and microlock2 retention system.
• Stylish: The Distinctive 21 graphics add a touch of flair.

Cons:

• Price: It's a premium helmet, so it might be a bit pricey for some riders.
• Weight: While not excessively heavy, it's not the lightest modular helmet on the market.
• Noise: While well-managed, some riders may find it a bit noisy at high speeds.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final verdict on the Nolan N100-5 Plus Distinctive 21? Overall, it's a fantastic modular helmet that offers a great combination of versatility, comfort, safety, and features. While it may be a bit pricey for some, the quality and performance justify the investment. The helmet's modular design makes it suitable for a wide range of riding styles and conditions, while the advanced safety features provide peace of mind. The comfortable fit and adjustable ventilation system ensure a pleasant riding experience, even on long trips. If you're looking for a high-quality modular helmet that can do it all, the Nolan N100-5 Plus is definitely worth considering. It's a top-notch helmet that will enhance your riding experience and keep you safe on the road. So go ahead, gear up and enjoy the ride!