Examining and testing 6D’s new-for-2024 dirt bike helmet.

By Casey Casper

August 5, 2024

Read More HERE

If you follow motocross safety products as closely as I do, then you already know that 6D’s original ATR-1 was an instant game-changer. Introduced in 2013 and to great sales success, 6D Helmets set a new standard for the industry. The proverbial bar had not only been raised, but an extremely warranted discussion surrounding head injuries and ways to mitigate trauma became de rigueur. This 6D ripple effect continues to this day.

When I started at Dirt Rider in 2019, off-road editor Andrew Oldar asked me which gear and protective equipment I prefer riding in. There was only one helmet brand on my list. I have owned and appreciated every 6D design since its inception, and the ATR-2 is my go-to helmet. Or should I say, was my go-to? With the introduction of the ATR-3, my personal gear bag is ready for an update…

New Tech in the 6D ATR-3 Helmet

Thoughtful engineering has defined 6D helmets from the beginning. By using an Omni-Directional Suspension (ODS) system, 6D’s engineering team was able to greatly reduce the negative effects of angular acceleration on the brain. The ATR-1 was the first iteration of this system, which allows an inner EPS component and an outer to interact almost independently, save for the ODS rubber connecting them. This system had 27 dampers and was not rebuildable after crash-related damages. Overall fitment was unique, to say the least, and many first-generation owners had to mix and match cheek pad thicknesses and inner liners to achieve optimal comfort.

Related: The Best Dirt Bike Helmets For Motocross And Off-Road Riding

The ATR-2 followed in 2018, reducing the number of ODS dampers to 11. Key updates of the ATR-2 included lighter weight, an overall decrease in the size of the outer shell, more comfortable fitment, increased ventilation, and a rather unique component in the high-end helmet category—rebuildability. That’s right, for $132, owners could send in their helmet for 6D technicians to inspect and replace any damaged internals.

Extra costs include chin bar, visor, liner replacements, etc., but you essentially get a new helmet back for a fraction of the cost of a new unit. In the event that your helmet is too severely damaged to rebuild, 6D offers a generous discount for a new lid. This program ensures that owners are not only satisfied with their initial purchase, but have options when things go sideways (literally).

For 2024, 6D’s latest ATR-3 marks the brand’s fifth-generation of ODS technology. Six ODS dampers are strategically placed between the inner and outer components, arranged in a way that centralizes mass while significantly improving ventilation. A 115-gram (0.25-pound) weight decrease was achieved over the ATR-2. Overall styling and shape of the helmet bring a newfound eye-catching appearance: Gone is the bobble head shape and roundness of the ATR-2. As a bonus, a majority of the $794.95 graphics and colors feature brilliant designs, with the Patriot and Nova styles being my personal favorites.

6D admits that the previous clip-on chin strap was a failure, and one of its most warranted items. As such, the ATR-3 gets an easy-to-use magnetic locking design. Hydration pack users will be happier as well, as new attachment points find their way onto the cheek pads. SuperMotocross (SMX) racers also have reason to be joyous: The ATR-3 incorporates space for the required-for-competition Eject Helmet Removal System, which is mandated by many sanctioning bodies.

6D ATR-3 Helmet Ride Report

Had you asked me to rate the ATR-2 on a scale of 1–10, with 10 being absolutely perfect, prior to testing the ATR-3, I would have reported a score of 9. However, after riding in the ATR-3, my thoughts on the ATR-2 have changed; not immensely, but noticeably—more noticeably than expected. A new rating of 8.5 out of 10 is still a highly respectable score for the ATR-2, but the ATR-3 is another step up for the 6D brand.

Related: Fly Racing Formula S Helmet First Look

Anyone who upgraded from an ATR-1 to an ATR-2 and was amazed at the improvements will appreciate the ATR-3: It essentially takes that same leap forward. Fitment is the most familiar aspect, but improvements in weight distribution and airflow top the list for the ATR-3. An under 3-pound helmet was the design goal, and 6D achieved that mark. More importantly, to me at least, the ATR-3 increases safety from a brand that was already at the forefront. The ATR-3 shows a marked improvement in lab testing, and 6D has the reports on its website to back it up.

The new magnetic chin-strap clasp is much more user-friendly, and 6D even includes a few extras never before seen from the brand. A premium helmet bag comes standard, per usual, but now a mud visor extension is included with every ATR-3 purchase. The roost guard is also removable—another first from the company. Similar emergency release cheek pads return, but now the ear pockets have extra room for comfortable installation and more in-helmet communication system accessibility. The ATR-3 is more drink-tube compatible than ever before, though some hydration-tube users will still have to modify the front of the helmet for optimum tube orientation.

6D ATR-3 Helmet Conclusion

Overall, I give the all-new ATR-3 helmet a 9.5 rating. Significant improvements have been made, and it still feels like the safest helmet for conscious consumers like myself. The ATR-3 has so much going for it, that even 6D decided to eliminate the ATR-1 from the catalog moving forward. Both rebuildable designs, the tried-and-true ATR-2 and all-new ATR-3 continue to lead the way in safety and helmet innovation.

ATR-3 solids start at $759.95, with graphics available from $794.95. All ATR-3 helmets come with a three-year limited warranty. ATR-2 options are available at $599.99, while ATR-1s are officially on closeout.

Related: 2024 Fox Racing V3 RS Helmet First Look