The Flaws of the ILM 953 Helmet and What to Choose Instead
Good day there, fellows! If you happened to be perusing through Amazon for a new motorcycle helmet, I am sure you must have come across the best-seller ILM 953 modular lid with Bluetooth. At such an attractive price, it is quite clear why it attracts many economy-oriented bikers. But before you put it in your shopping cart, let us take a peak inside.
As a rider who has covered thousands of miles, I know that when it comes to safeguarding your most precious asset-your head-you should not compromise on quality. Sure, the initial investment costs of buying an ILM 953 can be very low, but its outdated technology and substandard safety features would cost you a lot.
Weak Jaw Locking Mechanism
The critical role of any helmet is to offer protection during crashes in case they happen. The modular design of the ILM 953 enables flipping up the chin bar for better convenience and ventilation; however, there's a catch: there is no strong locking mechanism that holds down the chin bar while riding. On the contrary, well-made modular helmets like Shoei NEOTEC possess tough metallic posts at their jawline that ensure holding the chin bar where it belongs during times one needs them most.
Too Heavy a Burden – Too Heavy Weight
Another suspicious aspect concerning this product is its extremely heavy weight. With a massive weight of about 5.5 pounds, this helmet weighs almost twice as much as the majority of other competitors' products do within this range. Imagine all those hours carrying around a bowling ball on top? This definitely leads to fatigue and distractions!
Certification Dilemma
Now, let's move on to the certifications part. According to ILM, 953 "meets or exceeds both ECE and DOT safety standards". However, this statement is somewhat misleading. In fact, customers who have bought this helmet found out that the helmet does not possess an ECE certification sticker, and the company's website is very unclear about it. The truth is that the ILM 953 is only DOT certified, which is its self-certified standard that mainly tests top-down impacts, which is a rarer occurrence in motorcycle accidents. Without Snell or ECE certification, you cannot be sure of how the helmet will perform in more common side, rear and angled impacts.
Cheap Materials
Further examination of the construction of this helmet shows us its shell made from ABS plastic. This material is relatively cheaper and unprotected compared to other materials used for making helmets, like polycarbonate or composites found in premium helmets.
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Uncomfortable Interior Lacks Essential Equipment
The next problem comes up when we look at the interior section of ILM 953. It has a single-density EPS foam liner meant for energy absorption during impact- a minimalistic approach rather than multi-density contoured liners found in expensive helmets. The padding on the inside removes easily but feels thin and rigid, with many riders complaining about stress points as well as a lack of comfort. Though it may be easier to use a ratchet-type chin strap, it is not as strong nor lasting as the traditional double D-ring closure method.
Outdated and Outclassed Bluetooth
Before I go any further, you must be wondering. "What about the Bluetooth features? Surely, that's where the ILM 953 shines!" Don't get your hopes up, though; as far as communication goes, the helmet's integrated system is just like a flip phone. The outdated Bluetooth 3.0 module limits your intercom range to a measly 0.2 miles, while modern units can keep you connected up to a mile away. The speakers are tinny and anaemic, struggling to be heard over wind noise, and the microphone's performance leaves much to be desired. On top of all this, its Bluetooth only works with other ILM or Freedconn systems, so forget about talking to your riding buddies who have Sena or Cardo.
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The Better Alternative: Sena Outrush R
But here's some good news: there's no need for you to compromise on quality just because you have limited finances. Presenting…the Sena Outrush R – modular smart helmet, which gets more protection, comfort and technology than the ILM 953 at almost the same price point.
With its DOT and ECE-certified shell design, the Outrush R guarantees safety in all areas because it meets strict security requirements. Its advanced Bluetooth 5.0 system allows you to communicate with up to three other riders at a range of half a mile, and it's universally compatible with any Bluetooth headset on the market. It has a battery life that lasts for twelve hours, meaning that even during those days when you will ride for long distances without stopping due to nature calls or food cravings, there is still full connectivity with friends involved in motorcycle riding across countries bordering each other in different continents till dusk when everyone goes back home again after work; last but not least let us not forget how much we trust our audio output from Sena- it is undeniable that their sound clarity is much superior to ILM 953.
Conclusion
It all comes down to one simple fact: don't risk your safety and riding experience by going for a helmet that is substandard. Therefore, buy yourself a good unit like the Sena Outrush R and rest easy knowing that you've made a good decision for your family and yourself. Remember, you only get one head—it's worth protecting with the best gear you can afford. | 
