Review: AGV AX8 Dual Evo

After the success of AGV’s AX8 off-road helmet and the growth of the dual-sport market, along came the AX8-Dual. AGV then improved on key features found in the AX8-Dual, making the AX8-Dual Evo one of the finest dual-sport helmets on the market. It’s comfortable and quiet, and the lightweight design gives both the Arai XD and Shoei Hornet DS series a run for their money.

The shell is constructed of a fiberglass-Kevlar-carbon material, making this one of the lightest helmets on the dual-sport market at 1,514 grams. To compare, the Arai XD4 weighs in at 1,642g and the Shoei Hornet comes in a little closer at 1,542g. Don’t let the light weight fool you, though. It’s DOT and ECE 22.05 approved so you’re not sacrificing safety when you wear this helmet.

Unlike most helmets on the market today, the Dual Evo has a “slight narrow” fit. This allows a wider variety of people to comfortably wear the helmet. That being said, those who have a n exaggerated “round” or “long oval” head shape may find the fit uncomfortable.

This helmet’s Integrated Ventilation System (IVS) is top notch, with a wide channel hollowed directly in the shell, improving airflow throughout. And believe me, there’s plenty of air flow with five air vents on the front, two adjacent air intakes, and two rear extractors.

The vent sliders have a very solid feel and are easy to operate with gloves. As ventilated as the Dual Evo is, it’s relatively quiet and warm in cold weather. The chin curtain on this helmet is the best one of any dual-sport helmet to date, keeping wind from blowing up the underside.

The curtain is quick to add and remove; however, it can be easily knocked out of place while riding. The inner liner is composed of a Dry-Lex material that’s completely removable and washable, including the flap on the strap. This liner is also used in the AX8 off-road helmet due to its quick drying ability and comfort.

Aerodynamically, the AX8-Dual Evo is very smooth and creates nearly no “dual-sport lift” or buffeting associated with most peaked helmets. The visor is easily removable and replaceable, and there is a tinted option available.

My only gripe with the visor is that it is hard to open and close. The tab is difficult to use with gloves on, and it requires quite a bit of force to lift (sometimes causing the helmet to lift instead of the visor).

There are three variations to wearing this helmet. For adventure touring and supermoto riding, you will ride with both the peak and visor. For MX and enduro riding, remove the visor to accommodate goggles. The street fighter style removes the peak but leaves the visor.

Overall, this is a quality helmet designed for the dual-sport enthusiast. The styling and comfort is something to brag about with the AX8-Dual Evo. Plus, at 20–30% off the cost of the top-of-the-line helmet brands, this is a more affordable option without sacrificing quality. MSRP: $399.95 Extra tinted shield $69.95 Store.AGV.com

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