AmSnow.com is now SnoWest.com
Z1R Helmets We tested the Strike full-face, along with the Rail and Roost open-faced helmets in 2005. We really liked the open-face helmets, and the Roost was the best of the two here.
Staff Thoughts: StrikeVenting was ok on the Strike, but the shield still fogged up in various temperatures. My shield also cracked after only a light knock when we were in low temperatures. The replacement shield seemed to work better, and I didn't have any problems after switching to the new shield. Its oval shaped head opening made it a bit difficult to put on and take off, and also made the sizing pretty deceiving. - Petersen
Overall build of the Strike full-face helmet is good, and once you have it on, the fit is snug. The detachable anti-fogging breath deflector is also a good idea. Unfortunately, these helmets still fogged more easily than many others I've owned and were naturally worse the more temps dropped. We replaced the shields with new ones from the company with built-in top vents, and this definitely helped. - Boncher
The helmet fit very snug and was especially tight getting it on and off. I did not have any performance problem with the helmet once we replaced the shields. - Stollberg
Snug as a bug .... That was the only real problem I had here. No matter your normal size, go up one, or two sizes in these helmets. - Savage
Staff Thoughts: Rail and RoostBoth of these helmets are commendable open-face options. The rail has a soft detachable breath deflector and is better suited for warmer riding as it doesn't give quite the warmth and face protection as the Roost does.
The Roost has a harder plastic molded/snap-in breath deflector that gives the rider more protection near your goggles on cold rides. Vision is great with both of these helmets, but maybe a tad better with the Rail. Both are light in weight and have desirable color scheme graphics. The Rail may be a bit flashier with more of a motocross look, chrome breath intake area and more aggressive paint job. - Boncher