Introducing the Alpinestars Supertech R10

Alpinestars, a stalwart in the field of technical riding gear, is stepping onto the road helmet scene with their latest creation – the Supertech R10. This marks the Italian company’s first venture into producing a full-face road helmet in their six-decade history.

The Supertech R10 is a statement of Alpinestars’ continued dedication to safety, aerodynamics, and comfort. The helmet – engineered to meet ECE 22.06, DOT, and FIM standards – brings forth a host of innovative features aimed at enhancing protection, vision, and user experience.

This top-tier road and race helmet will be unveiled next year, starting with a limited-edition run of 200 “Launch Edition” specials, before moving into full-scale production. While pricing details remain under wraps, it’s expected to command a premium price point. Alpinestars also plans to release a range of sports touring, touring, and commuting helmets in the future.

Birth of the Alpinestars Supertech R10

The Supertech R10 was conceived and crafted over a span of five years in Alpinestars’ Asolo R&D helmet department, which was established in 2011. The helmet incorporates technologies previously used in their motocross helmets, tested by Alpinestars’ sponsored riders in 2018 and commercially available since 2019.

MotoGP legend Andrea Dovizioso also lent his expertise to the project. This high-performance helmet represents a clean break from tradition, fusing innovative design and state-of-the-art materials.

The R10’s multi-layered composite shell is designed to absorb and dissipate impact force. It’s comprised of a 3k carbon outer layer, followed by uni-directional carbon composite, aramid fibre, and fibreglass layers, all held together by an advanced epoxy resin – the same used for carbon race car chassis. The helmet also boasts collarbone-friendly lower edges, cushioned with soft rubber sections.

Inside the Supertech R10

Inside the protective shell lies an EPS liner composed of eight sections with six different densities, each positioned where it’s needed most. This liner is coated to allow the fabric interior to slide, thereby reducing rotational acceleration to the rider’s head during an impact – a feature akin to a MIPS system. Additionally, the helmet comes with cheek pads that have an emergency release system and a strap secured by robust stainless steel DD rings.

Maximum Strength and Fit

For enhanced safety, the visor is secured with a durable metal lock, and the quick-release visor mechanism is also metal for optimal strength. The helmet comes in four shell sizes (XS-S, M, L, XL-XXL) to ensure the best fit and weight.

The S-R10’s design took cues from racing cycle helmets and was refined using Computational Fluid Dynamics simulations and extensive wind tunnel testing with Alpinestars’ Moto2 machine. The result is a teardrop profile that reduces drag and enhances stability at high speeds.

First Impressions of the Supertech R10

Based on first impressions at the Vairano circuit near Milan, the Supertech R10 stands out for its exceptional ventilation and lightweight feel. It glides effortlessly through the wind, minimizing buffeting and offering superb vision. The visor is easy to change, though getting used to the robust visor lock might take some time.

Features such as the ‘A-Head’ for fine-tuning the fit add to the overall comfort, and the helmet seems to have an impressive build and finish. Stay tuned for a full review in the coming months as we put the Supertech R10 through its paces.

Key Features of the Alpinestars Supertech R10

Excellent Airflow: The helmet comes with passive intake and exhaust vents, adjustable top and chin vents, and extra chin vents under a removable rubber bung, ensuring optimum cooling.

Comfort-Oriented Design: The helmet features a soft, removable, and washable fabric lining. It comes with a removable chin curtain, wind, and breath protectors. Cheek pads are tailored to accommodate glasses and a hydration tube, adding to rider comfort.

Advanced Adjustment: Alpinestars’ ‘A-Head System’ allows for three-stage adjustment of the interior crown pad. This enables riders to modify the helmet’s height and angle for optimal vision.

Extended Field of Vision: The helmet’s design offers a panoramic view with 220-degrees of lateral and 57-degrees of vertical vision. The lower edges feature cutouts to further enhance rear and cornering visibility.

Innovative Visor Tech: The ECE 2206 visor comes with an anti-scratch and anti-fog coating. Its thickness varies – 2.6mm in the middle and 1.6mm on the side – for crystal clear vision. The helmet comes with a Pinlock and a tear-off.

Alpinestars has demonstrated a remarkable entry into the full-face road helmet segment with the Supertech R10. With its innovative design and state-of-the-art features, the helmet is set to provide riders with exceptional protection, comfort, and performance. We eagerly await further testing and a comprehensive review of this trailblazing helmet in the upcoming months.