Posted on December 12, 2011 by John. There have been comments

Throughout the history of motocross, there have been quite a few names that have stood out above all others. Racers Ricky Carmichael, Travis Pastrana, Jeremy McGrath, and Bob Hannah are names that any dedicated dirt bike rider will recognize. One racer, though, is too often forgotten.

Steve McQueen may have been well known for his Academy Award nominations for a number of roles in classic movies like The Great Escape, The Getaway, and Bullitt, but in the world of motorized bikes and throttles, McQueen was a pioneer. Competing in the Baja 1000 and securing a spot as the selected United States rider in the 1964 International Six-Day Trial, McQueen is a motorcycle legend through and through.

Because of McQueen's distinguished career, outstanding personality, and endearing charisma, Troy Lee has looked up to McQueen as a mentor throughout his life. Describing the actor as a “role model” and “idol,” Troy Lee feels that it is only right to incorporate the McQueen style and personality into one of his world famous helmet designs.

In order to capture the classic style of McQueen, the company made sure to add a bit of old-school to the helmet. Represented by a classic blue and orange, as well as a traditional-styled number plate graphic, this helmet exudes the meaning of simplistic beauty. As an extra special tribute to McQueen, you will find the famed actor's last name along the back of the helmet, as well as his racing number, #20, on the side and a photo of McQueen.

Troy Lee Designs (TLD) is a world-renowned motocross helmet brand, and the name is synonymous with comfort and style. The dual density shock pad is not only soft, but underneath there is an additional lining to help absorb impact, to provide optimal protection to the riders head. As an added bonus, the lining is made of a revolutionary material that is easily washable and wicks away sweat.

When it comes to safety features offered with the SE3 McQueen helmet, Troy Lee Designs designed the helmet with a carbon composite shell that sheds off a few ounces, but is also stronger than ever. This helmet truly stands out above the rest. Another great safety aspect of this helmet is its EMS friendly design. Instead of having to wrestle to get your helmet off in case of emergency, professionals simply press the “quick release” button and are able to pull out the cheek pads. This ensures the important prevention and minimizing of head movement, thus reducing risk of neck injury.

Troy Lee Designs is one of the more expensive brands, but all TLD models are well worth the cost, and the 2012 McQueen SE3 helmet certainly is no exception, offering a variety of features that make this helmet safer, as well as attractive.