Even riders who only have one motorcycle likely have a selection of head protection to choose from. The more bikes you have, the higher chance of helmets multiplying exponentially. Be it for fashion or function, you wouldn’t grab the same lid for a short cruise to Starbucks as you would pack for a lapping day, would you? Well, versatility is the name of the game for the AGV K6 as it was intended to distill all the best aspects of sport and touring helmets into one single package.
The first thing you’ll notice about the K6 before you even put it on is how light it is. Each generation of helmets get lighter, but the smallest size of K6 weighs just 1.2 kg (2.7 lb)! The weight savings stem primarily from the shell being comprised of Carbon and aramid fibres. Claiming to be the lightest helmet in the segment, without sacrificing strength we’re told, it was also designed to be neutrally balanced with an equal load distribution to prevent bobbling or fatigue from weighing on one particular part of the head.
Offered in four different sizes ranging from XS-SM, MS, ML-LG, XL-2XL, the shape was intended to be sleek and aerodynamic regardless of whether the rider is upright on a cruiser, leaned forward on a sport tourer, or hunched over on a sport bike. It was also designed to reduce the chances of contacting the collarbone.
Riding a Ducati Supersport then Scrambler, Indian Scout, and BMW R1250RS, the helmet was quiet and didn’t exhibit any abnormal turbulence while traveling at (mostly) legal highway speeds, even with the vents open. There are five on the front (two chin, three brow) and one on the rear – all easy to open while wearing riding gloves. I also installed the additional chin guard which helped reduce wind noise. Visor operation is easy, even with gloves on, requiring the simple push of a button. Raising and lowering many times throughout my rides, its operation felt substantial. The mechanism is nicely weighted and the visor stays in place.
The horizontal field of vision is 190-degrees, but due to the upward tapering at the sides of the front opening I found that lower peripheral vision was slightly compromised and required me to turn my head an additional few degrees for shoulder checks. Not a substantial issue, but a notable one.
No two heads are alike so fitment will vary, but the Shalimar head liner and cheek pads comfortably cradled my oval-shaped noggin without feeling too snug or restrictive. The material wicks moisture to prevent discomfort on hot days. It’s also anti-bacterial, removable and washable.
As someone who occasionally wears contact lenses but typically wears glasses or sunglasses when I ride, the K6 still managed to accommodate the arms without pressing them against my temples. Not the case with all helmets and very much appreciated.
The scratch-resistant visor is easy to open via the button on the front and features a metal multi-level mechanism, pivoting deliberately and staying in place. I hate a floppy visor. The process to swap visors is similar to that of the AGV Corsa R and Pista GP RR helmets.
The K6 is also among the helmets compatible with AGV’s Ark Bluetooth system that includes an FM tuner and four-way intercom with a range up to 1.6 kilometres. Installation requires an adapter that’s sold separately.
Residing between the K5 S and Corsa R in AGVs lineup, the K6 sells for an MSRP of $699 CDN and is available in a variety of colours, including the Matte Black model I tested. Offering ample features, light weight, comfort, and exceptional value, it’s definitely worth trying on the next time you’re looking for a new lid in this category. Is it versatile enough to be everything to everyone? Certainly not. But for some, it will suit all of their needs just fine.
How are you wearing sunglasses with this helmet? I cannot seem to get any of mine to go into the helmet comfortably at all.
Is it Pinlock ready?
The K6 does appear to be compatible with the Pinlock insert, yes.
Since you didn’t mention it, I take it that this helmet doesn’t have an internal sun visor?
You are correct – it does not.