EUROBIKE 2015 | Leatt Enduro Lite Backpack & DBX Helmet
While you probably know Leatt for being one of the leading neckbrace companies for downhillers, this stateside company have vastly broadened their offerings over the past few years to now dish up an almost all-encompassing portfolio of products that have the rider’s safety at the fore. Highlights from this year’s EUROBIKE include the brand new protective backpack as well as the current version of the DBC helmet.
Leatt DBX Enduro Lite WP 2.0
The DBX Enduro Lite WP 2.0 is a waterproof hydration pack, offering a 2 litre bladder, 5 litres of space and a level 1 back protector.
As its predecessor, the Leatt F4 Hydration Pack, took a clean sweep from the Design & Innovation Award jury and our test riders, winning them over with the sheer level of comfort it offered, it’s therefore not surprising that Leatt have stayed true to the x-shaped strap system, which has been further developed to include a second chest strap, making it more reminiscent of a waistcoat. A quick try-on at Leatt’s EUROBIKE stand convinced us of its secure and comfy position, but serious testing will take place imminently!
Fixed by two front straps, the DBX Enduro Lite WP 2.0 has a snug waistcoat-style.
The side straps allow for more fine-tuning of the fit.
Now basically a standard: the backpack has space for a full-facer or an open-faced helmet to be attached – Leatt have chosen little plastic hooks that can be attached to the visor.
The sides and the underside of the backpack are fitted with other features to which various protective gear can be fixed.
The DBX Enduro Lite WP 2.0 (shown on the right) isn’t Leatt’s only backpack with this strap system; they have launched a host of others too.
A glance at the backpack says it all: the DBX Enduro Lite is crammed with clever features, including the level 1-certified back protector from impact-absorbing 3DF form as well as the essentials like an attachment for a helmet and protectors. There’s a transparent pocket for smart phones on one of the front straps, which allows you to use the screen while it’s still in the protective pocket – naturally a huge bonus in bad weather. And speaking of bad weather, it isn’t just the phone case that’s waterproof – the entire backpack has been designed with waterproof material to ensure the contents remain dry and render it easier to clean.
The smartphone-specific pocket is at chest height and allows your phone to be used while sitting safely in the pocket.
The 2 litre bladder is kept in a thermal compartment to maintain the temperature for as long as possible.
Leatt DBX carbon helmet
Leatt’s brand new DBX helmet is equally as exciting, coming in both a carbon ($ 499 USD) and a composite version ($ 399 USD) for 2016. Noticeably compact and set to shake up the market, the DBX unites well-considered features and maximum protection.
The look of technology: The Leatt DBX Carbon isn’t shy of showing its technology.
360° Turbine Technology discs on the inside of the helmet should further boost the safety factor.
The primary goal in the development of the DBX Carbon was to obtain the smallest possible measurements for the helmet. This, in turn, should minimise any forces from a crash and reduce the risk of spinal injuries. Despite the smaller ‘crumple zone’, Leatt have layered ‘Multi-Density Impact Foam’ in a V-shape to ensure that the helmet still offers maximum protection. Moreover, the inside of the helmet has small rubber insets, known by Leatt as ‘360° Turbines.’ These blue circles are created from a flexible material and – similar to the well-known MIPS technology – are designed to absorb rotational forces by allowing the outer shell of the helmet to shift slightly on the head in the event of a crash.
The impact-absorbing discs are fixed to the mid-part of the helmet and allow it to shift in a controlled manner to better capture any rotational forces.
Moreover the discs also provide increased protection for more minor crashes thanks to their shock-absorbing material. Unlike EPS form, which continually reshapes to absorb energy, the discs return to their original position after the impact, rendering them ready for that next crash. So while they’re still active during smaller crashes, there’s no likelihood of a prolonged reshaping of the helmet.
Watering hole: the Leatt DBX can be fitted with a drinking system.
The Leatt DBX fullface helmet has been designed for use with a neckbrace, and can be fitted with a drinking system.
The Composite version of the DBX boasts the same features and technology but retails for $ 100 USD less.
For more information head to leatt.com.
Words: Aaron Steinke Photos: Sebastian Hermann
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