Long known for their full face helmets and style, Troy Lee Designs recently announced their big re-entry into the Enduro/All Mountain/Trail category with a new helmet called the A1. We have just received the helmet in the Mtbr offices for testing. This is a quick look at the style and features of what promises to be a popular choice for 2013.



Like other All Mountain style helmets, the A1 offers more protection than a traditional XC lid by offering more coverage in the back (like a BMX or skate style helmet). But the A1 goes beyond that with a helmet that is more a cross between an XC helmet and a full face helmet. The A1 will work with glasses or goggles and is targeted at the Enduro/Super-D type racer or rider.

It currently comes in two color options: Limited Edition Gold Metal Flake for $185 or the Black Cyclops scheme for $165. The helmet will be available in 3 sizes covering XS/S (54-56cm), M/L (57-59cm) and XL/XXL (60-62cm).

The first thing that grabs your attention (like most TLD products) is the style. Even though we have the more subtle color option of the two available, the A1 still has very flashy graphics. The little fin in the back is a Troy Lee design that harkens back to the "speed" fins he put on Supercross and Superbike helmets back in the day (in the moto world). In fact, if there is one word to describe the A1, it is "moto". Even the visor and it's adjustability and function are straight off of moto lids (albeit with smaller screws).



Troy Lee Designs A1 helmet features:
  • Extra think comfort lining with anti microbial nano-wick materials.
  • Full spectrum adjustable visor with +/- 1"/25mm range of motion
  • Anodized aluminum hardware
  • Versatile all terrain design
  • Multi position cam lock adjustable rear stabilizer with +/- 20mm movement
  • 6 pressurizing intake passages
  • 6 rear vacuum vortex outlets
  • Aerospace filament reinforced shell liner
  • TLD breathable helmet bag included
  • Accessory sticker kit included

The total of 16 vents on the A1 look like they will offer plenty of cooling for an enduro style helmet. Besides the cool vented bag and sticker kit, the helmet also comes with a user's manual and emergency contact/info sticker.

Dialing in the proper placement and alignment of the A1 is not as easy as some other helmets, but once you get it set, the fit is secure. Speaking of fit, if you normally ride a large size helmet, you should be sure to try this helmet on in person. I normally wear a large helmet, but I found the M/L size to be a bit of a tight fit on the sides. Sadly, I will be passing this helmet off to another reviewer with a smaller noggin for our long term test (unless I can get my hands on an XL)!

While the price has been a major bone of contention with some Mtbr readers, it may help to remember that with any TLD product, you are paying a premium for the name, style and quality. The finish on this helmet is top notch from the adjustable visor down to the red ano screws.



Real world weight on the official Mtbr scale put our size M/L at exactly 340 grams.


For a list of other possible helmets in the same category, read the next page>>

If the TLD bling and cost don't appeal to you, here is a list of other similar Enduro/All Mountain Style helmets currently on the market or coming in the very near future.


-Bell Super (sneak peek photo)
Bell Super


-Urge Enduromatic (helmet review)
Urge Enduromatic


-POC Trabec (helmet review)
POC Trabec


-Giro Feature (first look)
Giro Feature


-Lazer Oasiz (helmet review)
Lazer Oasiz


-Kali Avita Carbon (helmet review)
Lazer Oasiz


Also Consider:
-SixSixOne Recon
-Fox Flux