You’ve probably seen MotoGP riders sporting KYT helmets and thought, "One day, I'll save enough to get one too." Maybe you’ve even read our review of the NZ-Race or R2R Pro helmets from the brand. While these are more affordable than the ones worn by professionals, they’re still a bit beyond reach for those just getting into riding. Fear not, for KYT has addressed this with the Striker – their entry-level helmet designed to bring smart, stylish protection to the masses.
First off, the Striker looks, well… striking (pun absolutely intended). Available in several colour options – my review unit was black and blue, well, primarily black with blue and neon green highlights. I can’t overstate how sharp and aggressive it looks. Full marks for the graphics, material quality, and paint finish. In addition to the KYT logo in English, the helmet also features the brand name in Japanese on the sides. The dark visor complements the overall design, and I had no trouble using it during an evening ride. The large field of view ensures you won’t have any issues while riding in the city. My only gripe is that KYT didn’t include a retractable sunshade, as some other manufacturers do but you can wear sunglasses with it.
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In terms of safety, the Striker only gets an ISI 4151:2015 certification. Some may be disappointed that it doesn’t carry ECE or DOT certification, but for everyday riding, this helmet will keep you perfectly safe. The shell is made from what KYT calls ‘advanced thermoplastics,’ which is claimed to offer high crash resistance. The double D-ring mechanism further ensures the helmet stays securely fastened in the event of an impact.
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Initially, I wasn’t fond of the internal padding, particularly around the cheeks, as it felt a bit thin but certainly not uncomfortable. Weighing at around 1.5kg, the helmet is light enough for daily use and features plenty of ventilation ducts to keep things cool. It fits snugly without feeling overly tight. There are a number of vents around the helmet that can be opened for better air circulation and even after riding on some hot days, I did not feel stuffy inside the Striker. However, this unit is not great at eliminating wind noise at highway speeds. You will not encounter the issue when ambling around in the city thankfully.
What’s truly impressive is the price – just ₹5,950, or ₹5,750 if you go for the simpler matte finish models. At this price, you get a quality helmet that certainly grabs attention. It doesn't feel like KYT has cut corners. It’s smart, safe, and affordable. Given its attractive price point, the Striker could very well help KYT build a strong following in the Indian budget helmet segment.
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