The Schuberth C5 modular helmet is a clean-sheet design that shares no parts with the company’s C4/Pro. Informed by a spatial study, the new architecture has an intermediate-oval head shape that’s less round than the C4/Pro with more interior space. The chinstrap was moved forward, and the new chinbar locking mechanism doesn’t use pins, which avoids the helmet getting tighter when the chinbar is closed.
Having worn several generations of Schuberth’s modular helmets, the changes were immediately noticeable. Sliding the helmet on and off my head is easier, and comfort while riding is greatly improved. Airflow through the helmet has been increased with larger vents and better interior channeling.
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The C5 was designed to meet Europe’s new ECE 22.06 helmet safety standard, which sets higher benchmarks for impact protection and requires a larger eyeport for better visibility. The C5 meets the P/J homologation standard. “P” stands for “protective” and refers to full-face helmets; “J” stands for “jet” and refers to open-face helmets. P/J-homologated helmets can be used in both the open and closed positions, and the C5 has a tab to lock the chinbar in the open position.
The shell is made using Schuberth’s proprietary Direct Fiber Processing. Glass fibers are blown into a mold with a precise amount of resin and compressed in a high-pressure vacuum, creating an exceptionally strong shell. The C5 is not dual homologated to meet ECE and DOT standards. A DOT-specific version of the C5 has a shell reinforced with a basalt layer for added strength.
Inside the shell is a dual-density EPS liner and a new comfort liner with customizable pads. There are optional “sport” and “comfort” cheek pads and replaceable rear pads that can make the interior more round or more oval. The faceshield includes a Pinlock anti-fog insert, and a new patented memory function keeps the faceshield open at a desired level after opening and closing the chinbar.
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The C5 is prewired for the optional SC2 Bluetooth 5.0 communicator ($349), which is made by Sena and based on the 50S with voice activation and mesh networking. HD speakers and an antenna are built into the helmet. A remote-control unit clicks into the left side of the helmet, and the SC2 main unit with rechargeable battery plugs into the back of the helmet.
Our C5 in size medium with the SC2 installed weighs 4 lb, 2 ounces. Fit, finish, comfort, ventilation, and functionality are excellent. It’s available in sizes XS-3XL in solid colors for $749 and graphics for $849.
For more information, visit Schuberth.com.
“The C5 is not dual homologated to meet ECE and DOT standards. A DOT-specific version of the C5 has a shell reinforced with a basalt layer for added strength.”
Does this mean that the C5 sold in the US will not be as good?
The ECE version was reinforced with the basalt layer to make it stronger and meet DOT standards, so the U.S. version is at least as good or better.
Thanks. I’d been under the impression that the DOT standard was very minimal, and the ECE standard was much tougher.
US version is ~100g heavier. IMHO ECE is a more real world relevant standard and far better implemented. DOT adds some impact requirements (not as many as Snell) that need the add on later. See Fort-Nine YouTube comparing the three different standards.
The SC2 and Cardo devices don’t mesh, or bluetooth for that matter. Returned.
I can’t get the new SC2 and a SC1 to mesh. Bad!!
Hey Greg- how about reviewing the item we’re all waiting for- how is the com system?
The SC2 worked great for listening to music and navigation directions. We didn’t test the bike-to-bike or ride-to-passenger comms because we didn’t have a second Sena unit to pair it with.
I bought and have 2 C5s. One for my wife and one for me. They fit snug so definitely try one size up. Also, while the pads inside can be swapped out, they do not give you those so I am not sure how or where to order the thinner pads to improve internal comfort.
Craig, check on the Schuberth NA website. If the pads are not listed in their online shop, you can email sales. I bought an open box (demo) helmet with the SC2 comms unit and they were able to provide a microphone foam cover that was missing on my helmet
What size pads come with the C5 ? ie: , small , medium, large oval OR small, medium, large round ?
The C5 meets the P/J homologation standard.
The C5 is not dual homologated to meet ECE and DOT standards.
So… You can NOT ride with the chin bar up in the USA?
The C5 homologated for the U.S. market meets DOT standards, and that’s why it has an extra basalt layer in the shell for added strength. The P/J standard only applies to the ECE (European) standards. DOT doesn’t test the two different configurations, just the full-face (chinbar closed) configuration. You can ride with the helmet in whatever configuration you prefer – it’s up to you.
Does the SC2 pair with satellite and wonder wheel?