I am also considering buying a new full face after a recent smash in Bracknell Forest (thanks to the couple who were walking in the 'outback' at the time that called the ambulance and looked after my 4 and 2 wheels while I was carted to hospital).

The thing is that I do not like to be enclosed. I noticed that some helmets have small holes for the ears to aid hearing and wondered if anyone knew which models sported this attribute? I would also like to know where I can view and try on an array of models. I live in West London and work in Bracknell so nearby stockists would be appreciated.

Another question I have is what would be the consequence of drilling extra or larger holes (aside from voiding the warranty!). Some say it might weaken the structure but looking at XC lids, can they be right? After all XC lids have more holes than ever these days.

I was thinking of larger ear hols and vents in the top of the helmet to make the experience cooler.

Many questions I know but if you can help then I would appreciate it.

Si

madslc@lycos.co.uk

Has anyone tried the Specialized Deviant? That looks like a good compromise but I can't find any member reviews.

I have the spec devaint, can hear with it fine, it's well vented and increadly light (I have the carbon one coz I'm a tart)

but it is still a lot hotter then an XC lid on climbs and when you stop, but fine on the downs, a met patacute will be cooler but not the same level of protection.

I'm buying the deviant next week, the carbon one, gonna use it for general hard XC duties, and in winter i'm sure its warmth will be a bouns. When i tried it on in the shop it felt pretty light and plenty ventilated.

Always used a Giro Switchblade years ago and loved that.

Met Parachute works for me - I had the same worries after I landed on my face rather badly. It's not up to full face spec but you can wear the chinguard all year round without overheating.

casco?

Dark Lord/Steve where did you or are you going to buy it from? Would like to try it out first.

Si

I got mine from my LBS in Sheffield, so that's not a lot of good to you

I am also thinking about a new full facer.

I have been considering the casco viper mx but I have read somewhere that the chin guard is very restricting.

Interesting to read that people are using the deviant on xc rides.

Evans Mancehster for me... i know, but nobody else had it in stock.

More experience with the Deviant now, its great, looks great, fits great, and i'm fairly sure it offers as much protection as i'll ever need.

It really isnt much hotter than an XC lid, the only thing that is different is the cheek pads, which seem to wick away sweat well and are really thick.

Mine is also the pimpy black carbon version, although the fibreglass shell isnt much heavier.

Couldnt be happier with it, despite the £150 price tag (£100 for the fibreglass makes it a bargain really).