I also read that article online, it was a real eye opener. As an off-road racer for years I've fallen hard on my head a number of times and have actually "cracked" two helmets and thrown 5 away due to crash damage. I've always been very attentive to helmet issues, but have always thought more expensive was likely better. I was very impressed with the reporters methodology and data, so much so that I went out and bought a couple of the Z1R helmets for my wife and I. My regular street helmet is an HJC, but I've owned Bell, Simpson and Shoei's. The Z1R is not as comfortable as all but the Simpson (which was the worst fitting helmet I've ever owned). The Z1R seems to skimp a bit on padding for the front of my head, so there is a hot spot about 4" above my eyebrows. It is by no means unbearable and I don't regret the purchase at all. I might try putting a little extra foam in there, but in my experience this doesn't solve the problem as well as I'd like. The helmet will be fine for the shorter rides that constitute 90% of my riding, but I'll keep my HJC for multiday tours, anything shorter and the Z1R will be on my head. As the recipient of a number of bonks on my head, I highly recommend this article... read it and decide for yourself.
Regards,
Wardo