10,000 Mile Review: Scorpion-Exo XT-9000 Carbon Fiber Adventure Helmet

After clocking over 10,000 miles with the Scorpion-Exo XT-9000 on my head, I've got to say, this helmet is a game changer for any adventure rider looking for that perfect blend of comfort, performance, and style. 

The helmet's ventilation system is quite smart, featuring a couple of adjustable vents for airflow. However, there's a catch for those of us who love to capture our rides: the action camera mount on the chin bar can block some of that airflow. It's a small trade-off for capturing those breathtaking moments, though.

Durability has been impressive. This helmet has taken a couple of tumbles with me, but it's held up like a champ. No major impacts, thankfully, but after all those miles, there's virtually no sign of wear, which speaks volumes about the quality of the carbon fiber shell.

When I first put this helmet on, it felt snug, almost like it was hugging my head. The cheek pads break in nicely, providing a secure fit without that claustrophobic "I need this off now" feeling after a long day's ride. The only downside was with the Cardo system; the speakers were a bit too big, causing some ear pressure, which meant a bit of DIY modification was in order.

One aspect I wish was different is the shield system. Swapping between the included clear and smoked shields is easy, no tools needed, but it's not the ideal solution for long trips. I wish it had a drop-down sun visor to avoid the hassle of switching shields. On any moto trip, most people don't pack an extra shield. Choosing to run the smoked shield was better than running clear until nightfall, but then you wish you had a clear shield. A drop-down sun visor would solve these problems.

Noise levels are manageable with the vents closed, turning the helmet into a quiet cocoon, allowing focus on the road or your thoughts. The panoramic vision is another win; nothing blocks your view, which is crucial when navigating through the twists and turns of mountain passes or the unpredictable trails of the Backcountry Discovery Route.

Maintenance is straightforward; cleaning the shield and the helmet liners is an easy task, keeping everything fresh and ready for the next adventure. The helmet seals well, keeping you warm on those chilly mornings or cool when the heat's beating down, thanks to those well-placed vents.

Customization isn't extensive, but you've got options with different size cheek pads for the perfect fit and various shield types if you want to personalize your setup. All these options are reasonably priced, which is a plus.

Regarding the price, you get what you pay for. With the most current ECE rating, two shields, a Pinlock, and a full carbon fiber shell, it's very hard to complain about the cost.

In summary, the Scorpion-Exo XT-9000 has been a solid companion through thousands of miles, offering a balance of performance, safety, and comfort. If you're in the market for a helmet that'll be with you from dawn till dusk (just remember to consider your shield choice), this could be it.