Another new entry into the lower-priced helmet market, Sparx is actually a subsidiary of KBC helmets that was created to focus on the under-$200 segment that has recently seen a flood of new brands (much of it due to the increasing industrial strength of China). But rather than just rebranding some KBC helmets and selling them cheaper, the Sparx helmets are all-new in design, with many features that actually rival or surpass some of the parent company's more expensive offerings. The S-07 model is Sparx's only "performance" street helmet.
Constructed using a "Thermo Composite" shell, the S-07 is said to meet DOT standards and is ECE 2205-approved. It's substantially lighter than most helmets, with our medium-sized example weighing in at 3 lbs, 5 ozs. The faceshield uses a tool-less quick-release ratcheting mechanism, and features brow vents similar to the ones used on all Arai helmets. A removable and washable liner and contoured cheek pads are standard, and the shell features four upper vents and two rear vents: two for intake, four for exhaust. The S-07 comes with a five-year limited warranty against manufacturer defects, and also includes a "Crashed Helmet Program" that allows a customer to get his damaged Sparx helmet replaced free of charge by just submitting a police report of the accident and a purchase receipt.
The most striking feature of the S-07 helmet is its overall quality for an under-$150 lid. Paint quality is excellent, and seems to be very durable and resistant to scratches, rock chips, etc. The liner is fairly plush and comfortable, and there are no poorly-finished components that are readily visible. Shield sealing was excellent on our example, with the shield seal fitting tightly over nearly the entire circumference of the eyeport. Shield removal and replacement was fairly easy, although the lever release mechanism was a bit difficult to push for removal, and lining up the pivot with a smoke or mirrored shield can be tricky.
Interestingly, the brow vents don't ventilate into the liner, but only allow airflow into the facial area to help with defogging and ventilation during hotter climates. While we found the vents to help a bit with keeping cool on hot days, they weren't that effective with defogging the interior of the shield, and the cold airflow was sometimes bothersome on our eyes. We also found an annoying distortion in the shield at the very top edge of the eyeport; the shield has a ridge built in to the upper portion to help with sealing, but the problem is that the ridge results in slight distortion in the rider's view. The shield ratchet is also pretty tight, so a little more effort than normal is required to open the shield.
Overall fit was surprisingly good for a helmet in this price range, with the liner shape tailored more toward round than oval heads, and the liner fabric was comfortable. Because the shield seals well and the helmet has a fairly tight neckroll (that can be a bit uncomfortable when putting the helmet on), the S-07 is definitely one of the quieter helmets we've tried. The vents are non-adjustable, but we found their performance to be only average anyway, with only a slightly perceptible cooling on hot days.
Nonetheless, while it's easy to list the gripes with the Sparx S-07 helmet, it's difficult to overlook how much quality and value you're getting for the money. We think you'd have a very difficult time finding a better helmet in the S-07's price range (suggested retail price is $139.99 for graphics models, $109.99 for solid colors). Available in sizes XS to XXL.
Sparx Helmets
(800) 595-0080
www.sparxhelmets.com