In 1972, two brothers in India started SMK Helmets in a small garage. Now, after 51 years, it has grown into one of the world’s largest makers of motorcycle helmets. While relatively new to the U.S. market, SMK offers a range of helmet styles, including full-face, modular, open-face, and off-road options.
In the category of full-face helmets, the Titan Carbon is SMK’s flagship model. There’s also a non-carbon version. The Titan Carbon uses a blend of carbon fiber composite and energy impact-resistant thermoplastic (EIRT) in its outer shell to reduce weight and enhance impact protection. The inner liner, made of multiple densities of expanded polystyrene, adds more impact absorption. Importantly, the helmet is certified by both ECE and DOT safety standards.
SMK prides itself on designing and wind-tunnel testing helmets to minimize drag, lift, and wind noise. The Titan Carbon excels in the first two areas. While riding a Yamaha MT-09 SP at speeds over 80 mph on the highway, I experienced minimal buffeting with the size XL helmet I tested, but there was noticeable wind noise. This noise increased slightly with the top vent open, although wearing earplugs helped mitigate it.
Ventilation-wise, the Titan Carbon boasts a chin vent, a top vent, and four exhaust ports. Operating both vents is easy, but the amount of airflow through the helmet with both vents open is moderate. Removing the chin curtain and breath deflector on warmer days enhances interior comfort.
The built-in sunshield is convenient, providing good visibility while leaving a small gap for reading dash instruments. However, the tint is not dark enough to effectively reduce sun glare. The faceshield locks and unlocks effortlessly with a pushbutton located above the chin vent. Removing the shield is simple using quick-release levers. The helmet also includes a Pinlock anti-fog insert.
Inside, the Titan Carbon features a hypoallergenic liner with moisture-controlled fabric. This liner helps keep my head relatively cool and dry, even when temperatures are in the low 90s. The liner can be removed and washed, and overall, the helmet fits very comfortably, without causing any pressure points on my intermediate-oval head shape. Securing the helmet is easy thanks to the adjustable quick-release ratcheting chinstrap.
While I wished for more ventilation and a darker sunshield, the SMK Titan Carbon impresses as a well-crafted, feature-rich motorcycle helmet that comes at an affordable price. It’s available in a solid color (no design) for $279.99 and the Nero graphic in either red or blue for $289.99. Sizes range from XS to 2XL.
