Shark Evo-One 2
Reviewer: Jack Rydell
Overall:
- Safety: 4.8
- Comfort: 4.2
- Ventilation: 4.1
- Noise: 4.2
Pros:
- Unique convertible design — full-face or open-face in seconds
- Internal sun visor included
- ECE 22.06 certified in full-face configuration
- Smooth chin bar removal and storage mechanism
- Good noise isolation for a convertible design
- Distinctive French styling
Cons:
- Heavier than comparable non-convertible helmets
- Open-face configuration not ECE 22.06 certified
- Chin bar storage adds complexity and weight
- Ventilation modest in full-face mode
- Premium price for a non-Japanese brand
The Shark Evo-One 2 does something no other helmet in this review series does: the chin bar detaches completely and stores in the helmet itself, converting from full-face to open-face in seconds. After extended testing, the execution is more impressive than the concept alone might suggest.
The Convertible Mechanism
Two buttons release the chin bar, which stores neatly in a pocket integrated into the rear of the shell. The mechanism is smooth and tool-free — converting takes about ten seconds once familiar. The chin bar is secure when attached, with no play or rattle after extended use. It’s a well-engineered solution to a genuine design challenge.
Certification: Important Nuance
The Evo-One 2 is ECE 22.06 certified in full-face configuration with the chin bar attached. In open-face configuration — chin bar removed — it is not ECE 22.06 certified. This distinguishes it from the Shoei Neotec 3 or Schuberth C5, which carry dual certification as modulars. The Evo-One 2 is a full-face that converts, not a modular — open-face use is not covered by its certification.
Sun Visor, Noise and Ventilation
The internal sun visor deploys cleanly with good tint depth and optical clarity. Noise levels in full-face configuration are good — comparable to the Shark Spartan RS and better than budget full-face alternatives. Ventilation is modest: three vents move adequate air but the Evo-One 2 will feel warm in sustained summer heat.
Verdict
The Shark Evo-One 2 delivers its core promise convincingly: a well-built full-face that converts to open-face quickly and securely. For urban riders who want full-face protection on fast roads but open-face convenience in the city, it’s the only production helmet genuinely providing both. The weight penalty and certification nuance in open-face mode are real limitations to understand before buying. For riders whose use case matches the concept, nothing else comes close.