Biltwell Gringo SV Review: Vintage and Stylish

Hello there, friends! Today, I am thrilled to share with you my experience unboxing and reviewing the Builtwell Gringo SV full face helmet.

But, the main question I will answer in this review will be: Is this the best full face motorcycle helmet for you? Let’s find out!

Vintage Style Meets Modern Construction

The Builtwell Gringo SV is a classic, vintage-styled full-face helmet with a modern twist. It comes with a face shield, distinguishing it from the original Gringo.

When you think of Builtwell, you should envision vintage style combined with contemporary construction.

What’s unique about this helmet is that it offers both a classic aesthetic and modern safety standards. The helmet is DOT certified and also meets ECE 2205, the European standard, which in my opinion, is a notch above DOT.

The helmet’s shell is made from durable polycarbonate, and as of my review in 2023, it’s reasonably priced at circa $300.

Please bear in mind that prices may increase in the future, so don’t hold it against me if you read this review at a later date!

Size and Fit

The Gringo S comes in sizes ranging from extra small through 2XL. Unfortunately, this full-face helmet might not be for you if you have a larger head size, like 3X or above.

As for the fit, it’s true to size. Simply refer to the Builtwell sizing chart below. Let me reassure you, you’ll not only ride faster and look cooler, but you can also return the helmet without paying for the shipping.

If the helmet doesn’t fit or you change your mind, as long as it’s new in the original packaging, you can send it back free of charge.

Helmet Size	Inches	CM	US Hat Size
XS	20 7/8 – 21 3/8″	53 -54.25cm	6 5/6 – 6 7/8
S	21 1/2 – 22″	54.5 – 55.75cm	6 7/8 – 7 1/8
M	22 1/8″ – 22 5/8″	56 – 57.25cm	7 1/8 – 7 /3/8
L	22 3/4 – 23 1/4″	57.5 – 58.75cm	7 3/8 – 7 5/8
XL	23c3/8 – 23 7/8″	59 – 60.25cm	7 5/8 – 7 7/8
XXL	24 – 24 1/2″	60.5 – 61.75cm	7 7/8 – 8 1/8

Exterior Design and Features

Let’s delve deeper into this helmet’s features. The model I have with me today is in the shade of Storm Gray, a glossy, solid color.

Builtwell is renowned for its metallic colors, so do check out its other vibrant options. The face shield is straightforward to handle, attached with a Phillips head screwdriver.

The helmet comes with a clear shield, but if you prefer a different color, you can purchase a smoke shield or any other that suits your preference.

You can also run the helmet without the face shield and use goggles or sunglasses instead. The face shield attaches to the left side, and you can open it up by popping up the snap.

The helmet has strong detents, which is beneficial since the helmet doesn’t have extra ventilation like intake or exhaust ports.

You can ride with the face shield cracked open, and it will stay put even at reasonable speeds. There are four positions for the face shield pivot kit.

However, keep in mind that this is a vintage helmet, so the face shield seal isn’t as tight as modern ones. You might get some air even when the shield is fully locked. This is a cruising helmet; it’s all about the vibe.

Interior Design and Comfort

Let’s flip the helmet over and see what’s inside. The helmet comes with a manual and a handy Builtwell helmet sock.

The interior of this helmet is quite comfortable, thanks to the removable cheek pads and headliner made out of a fleece lycra material.

This material is excellent for temperature regulation, keeping you cool when it’s hot and warm when it’s chilly. It also has a pleasing quilted look, adding to the helmet’s vintage aesthetic.

The helmet has a standard D-ring closure and a molded urethane chin bar pad designed to protect your face in case of an impact. This is especially important as the majority of impacts in a motorcycle accident are in the face area.

Speaker Pockets and Extras

Surprisingly for a vintage helmet, the Gringo SV has speaker pockets behind the cheek pads, making it compatible with communication systems.

You can mount your comm unit on the left side, and the speaker pockets are ready to accommodate it. The helmet also has a unique snap receiver on the chin bar strap, which you can adjust to prevent the strap from flying around during your ride.

Key Takeaways

1. The Builtwell Gringo SV is a vintage-styled helmet with a modern twist.
2. The helmet is DOT certified and also meets ECE 2205, the European standard.
3. The helmet comes with a face shield that is easy to attach and detach.
4. The Gringo SV is reasonably priced at circa $300.
5. The interior of the Gringo SV is made out of a comfortable fleece lycra material.
6. The helmet has speaker pockets behind the cheek pads, making it compatible with communication systems.
7. The Gringo SV comes with a two-year warranty.
8. You’re covered for free return shipping if the helmet doesn’t fit or you change your mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What differentiates the Builtwell Gringo SV from the Gringo?
   • The Gringo S comes with a face shield, distinguishing it from the original Gringo.
2. What are the safety certifications of the Builtwell Gringo SV?
   • The helmet is DOT certified and also meets ECE 2205, the European standard.
3. What is the size range for the Builtwell Gringo SV?
   • The Gringo S comes in sizes ranging from extra small through 2XL.
4. Can I install a communication system in the Builtwell Gringo SV?
   • Yes, the Gringo S has speaker pockets behind the cheek pads, making it compatible with communication systems.
5. Does the Builtwell Gringo SV come with a warranty?
   • Yes, the helmet comes with a two-year warranty.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Builtwell Gringo SV is the top-selling vintage helmet for a reason. With its perfect blend of retro style and modern safety features, it’s a helmet that looks great and performs exceptionally well. The helmet comes with a two-year warranty, which is another testament to its quality.

So, why wait? Pick up a Gringo SV for yourself. Trust me, you’ll look incredibly stylish wearing it.

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