Got one and really like it. Not too hot and you don’t even notice the chin guard is there, after a while. I’ve even tested it out on a couple of occasions, and have no complaints.
It obviously doesn’t offer the same protection as a FF, but it’s not designed to be used for DH etc. For XC and general trail riding, it’s fine. If the place you’re riding warrants a proper FF, then use a proper FF!
some hate (and have never used them), some (who have used them like them) general stuff really.
Agreed. There seems to be 2 schools of thought here. The ‘hate them, never used them and never would’ and “got one, like it and it’s saved my face on a few occasions.’ General beef being the idea that the chin guard is a bit weak and will shatter and stab you in the face if you crash. It’s not as weak in the flesh and pretty much all the stories I’ve heard have been hearsay. Let’s face it (maybe literally in this case), if you were to face plant hard enough to break it, I imagine you’d be a lot worse off without it. I use it cos I’d rather avoid adding to the scars on my chin from previous unfortunate OTB incidents.
Do a search and you’ll find a few topics about them.
As you said, they’re pretty much discontinued now. The closest I’ve found to it is the Cratoni C-Maniac
http://www.cratoni.de/en/bike-helmets/1291794700_mr/c-maniac.html
Not found any reviews about how they perform really, but the chin guard does look more chunky. Much cheaper than the MET too.