SMK Twister helmet review- Introduction

SMK Twister Attack helmet review- Introduction

Introduced only last year, SMK is a fairly new brand in India. And with a price range of around Rs 4,000 to Rs 10,000 they go up against the likes of the MT and LS2. The helmets are said to be developed in Italy and are produced by the Delhi-based manufacturer, Studds in India. 

What we have with us here is the SMK Twister, an entry-level, full-face helmet. The Twister is comparatively longer at the front than at the back and seems to be a fusion of a street and touring helmet. By the looks of it, the lid should be appropriate for an upright riding position.

The helmet is constructed using thermoplastic polymers and is ECE 22.05 certified. The ECE 22.05 or Economic Commission of Europe regulation number 22.05 is rated as one of the highest safety standards used by around 47 countries.  This is also one of the standards for helmets used in MotoGP races.  

Does this mean that the Twister is a budget-friendly track helmet too? Not really.  While it does meet the safety standards, the SMK Twister uses a micro-metric retention system which is not permitted for track use by the FMSCI. 

The helmet sports a good five vents; two inlets on the chin area, one inlet at the top and two outlet vents at the rear. The visor is wide and comes fitted with a Pinlock 30 visor as standard, a boon when riding in the rain. It is also equipped with a breath deflector to prevent fogging. The SMK Twister gets a retractable sun visor that can be operated via a toggle switch on the left. 

Next to this toggle is a slot to attach a Bluetooth device. However, it can only accommodate the SMK A-2 BT device. Other communication systems like the Sena 3S and Sena 20S need to be retrofitted. The helmet liner and cheek pads are made from a ‘moisture controlling’ fabric which is both removable and washable. 

Weighing around 1450gms, the SMK Twister is one of the lightest helmets in its price range. Solid colours are priced at Rs 4,000 while graphics like this Twister ‘Attack’ would cost you Rs 4,300. It is available in sizes from XS to XL in various stores across the country. We will be using the helmet for daily commutes and weekend rides and see how it performs in different weather conditions. So, stay tuned!