Best sport-touring helmet: Arai Quantic vs Shoei GT-Air 3 vs HJC RPHA 71 vs Shark Spartan GT

[@jrobbxmoto1998]

Great Video! I have the Arai Quantic and I love it! One thing I did was purchase the chin curtain for the Rx7 which fits the Quantic it’s larger and really makes a huge difference with noise! It made the helmet a lot quieter. Not that it was wicked noisy to begin with, but it’s a noticeable difference!!

[@theoiorga]

I do feel a lot of wind inside the helmet with all vents closed. Do you have this issue?

[@LyuboTo]

@@theoiorgasame here

[@splodge57]

Started wearing Arai in the 80's. Been wearing Shoei since 2000. Best and most comfortable helmet you can wear. I always buy from the cheaper end of their range but you still get the best quality.

[@jadsmvs8651]

This is it. Neither brand really so an "entry level" helmet. Arai and Shoei both just make one helmet for each purpose and it costs what it cost. No entry, mid-tier, and flagship models. They're just all flagship, so even if you buy the cheaper lid, you're buying a damn good one.

[@vidright]

The most important thing with a helmet is that it fits the head perfectly. And that's not the case with every helmet from every brand. I would ride an ARAI if one of these helmets would fit my skull. But unfortunately, ARAI helmets are not made for my head. I have ridden SHOEI helmets for years, 4 or 5 of them, and was delighted with them. However, since SHOEI changed the helmet shells several years ago, I can no longer find the right size from SHOEI either. Since then I've been riding helmets from HJC. They are not quite comparable to SHOEI or ARAI in terms of workmanship, but they fit my skull perfectly.

[@Mr.ATGATT]

I came here searching for the comment. I agree 100%. After 25 years of riding and crashing in Arais, AGVs, Shoei helmets - wiith a 3 year stint at Cycle Gear selling gear - the fitment is the most important. That's why we buy them. Full-face one-piece helmets without an internal sheild are arguably the safest.

[@ioandragulescu6063]

I really hope manufacturers stop forcing ppl to get these custom intercoms. Just let people choose what they want and build the helmets accordingly.

[@sirduckington5641]

to be fair. i got a gt air 2 and did not buy the integrated coms system. Just some strong doubble sided tape on the outside. It's slightly further back than ideal but it's not an issue

[@ioandragulescu6063]

@@sirduckington5641 I keep hanging to my 5 year old cardo packtalk slim on my equally old RPHA 70. I think it's the best design, very low profile and the battery sits nicely in the back. I wish manufacturers (including cardo) would stick more to this form factor.

[@Helmigurt]

I got the Shoei GT Air 3 and I’m actually quite happy with the integrated Sena SRL3. I like the clean look and integration.

[@iNFiN3]

Started with an Arai Quantic, got the first one in my country and been very happy with it, had a chance to test the Shoei NXR2, but didnt like it, for me nothing beats the comfort and the visor mechanism of Arai, also I do belive they make the best helmets and I respect the tradition behind it and the unvilingness to change from what they belive is the safest shape for more sales with more modern angular shapes, and in a way, ECE22.06 and FIM standards confirmed that their way is the right way, since they added glancing off as the key of the new standards and which was and still is the thing Arai preaches the most. Hopefully the next one will be an RX-7V Evo. Stay safe fellow riders.

[@martinfoster5163]

Great video, John. I bought the Arai Quantic for my wife when it first came out. I don't care about graphics so I got her the basic white but it's pearly white, or something like that. Not a big deal but it's not just plain white. White was the safest option in terms of visibility. The only occasion when I buy a helmet with graphics is if the price is the same or people didn't like that graphic and it's discounted. When you're already paying £500 for a helmet, which is a lot for me, I can't see paying another £100. But each to their own.

[@marcoaguiar3226]

Ps. I also noticed in your review that you weren't aware of hjc's adjustable system to lower the sunvisor - the mechanism is hidden under the bluetooh coms lid in the left side and it drops the visor even lower and forward at the same time removing any possible gaps therefore its even better than shoei's as it lowers even more.

[@Pettington]

I have owned the GT air3 since the end of September and it’s the best helmet I’ve ever owned

[@jamesb1740]

I've been rocking the Quantic for a year now, it's been awesome! It's soooooo comfortable. Just to be fair I've never found any Shoei helmet to fit my melon properly. Though now I see they have a custom fitting service I'm willing to give it a try.

[@MotoGoato]

And another excellent video from you guys ... all points very well covered, stacks of info and useful advice and entertaining too. Nice work, John!! Hands down some of the best bike and kit content online 🙂

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Thanks so much! Cheers, John

[@Kevin-px7so]

Great video! I wore Shoei and Shark for years but settled on the Arai having the best fit, vents and comfort.

[@JohnSmith-gr8oj]

Tried these three, Arai, Shoei and HJC, plus an AGV K6 and a shark carbon, a few months back when I updated and upgraded my full face helmet. All are top notch helmets, it really comes down to the final verdict, the one that fits right is the best one for each! Now, my high level impressions back then. 1. Shoei, not for me, pain on one side on top of my head. Plus prefer d-lock on my full face helmet. 2. HJC, knew this was the one from the moment I put it on. Snug fit and comfy everywhere, felt an extension of my head. 3. Arai, yes comfy, really soft padding, too soft for my liking, preferred the snug fit of the HJC. Plus no sun visor. 4. That shark carbon I tried, the moment I put it on I asked "is this lighter?". Yes it was if I recall well 200 grams lighter than the others. It was though painful for me in several places. 5. AGV could not even put it on...no fit at all on my size. Bottom line, yes fit is the most important factor for something that only protects our head but also makes a ride an absolute joy or a living hell.

[@revddavidcoleman1806]

🕘 hjc

[@revddavidcoleman1806]

HJC

[@kelvynbond3356]

Really interesting video I currently use a Arai helmet with a pinlock that darkens according to the amount of sunlight works great and don’t need to worry about taking another visor

[@vidalastra]

Hola, ¿podría proporcionar un enlace a dónde compró el pinlock de oscurecimiento?

[@calloverpete1318]

I’ve got a photochromatic Arai pinlock. Solves the sun shield issue. Its brilliant 😊

[@dagothur5231]

Nice to know !

[@FernitoAM]

​@@dagothur5231 Is that for the arai quantic? I tried the arai quantic on and is the most comfortable helmet i ever tried by a mile. The no sun visor is a killer. Looking at the photochromatic options. Can u send a link?

[@FernitoAM]

Link to the pinlock?

[@paul8161]

How much is that visor?

[@David-bf6pl]

I love my Arai Pro-Shade!! I use it on my medium Signet-X helmet and wouldn't leave home without it.

[@sigis72]

Once you go Shoei, it's hard to come back to anything else

[@MotoGoato]

When I started riding over 20 years ago Shoei lids didn't fit my youthful head shape .... last year I tried on an NXR2 just to see if anything had changed - straight out of the box it fits like it was custom made for me. By far the best fitting and most comfortable helmet I've ever owned 😉

[@Achilles22]

I agree I’ve got an NXR2 and an AGV K6S, AGV is the best for me. My GT Air2 made my neck ache with the drag.

[@ryanmalone2681]

They call the Quantum-X ‘Quantic’ in the UK?

[@Achilles22]

@@ryanmalone2681 yes mate

[@SirMountainpass]

Wrong! I initially had the GT-Air2 and it was no match for my current AGV K6S with an iridium visor 😅

[@chadridsdale9970]

This is often repeated but your reviews are the best and consistently trustworthy.

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Thanks so much! Cheers, John

[@brianperry]

l have been using the Shoei Neotech since the Mk1, now on Mk2. l also us a HJC l 30 open face, for the very hot summers plus a HJC l71 when l require my chin mounted camera...The Shoei is undoubtable the best as regards wind noise, comfort and fit..Also l would like to say a trend towards built in intercom systems is step in the right direction, Both the Shoei and the HJC have. it saves having those things stuck out in the airstream, causing even more noise..However, you're correct when you say ear plugs are essential at speeds above 40MPH...that is if you want to avoid tinitus in later life...

[@vistazo9]

Thanks for detailed comments 👍 the annual cost breakdown really smart. Definitely will try helmets on before purchase. I had to modify myself those visors adjustments 😊

[@digger8180]

I think the Arai Pro shade is OK, it works, I actually like the clear area it leaves to allow you to read the clocks better. I've owned numerous lids over the years including the Suhuberth C5 which was diabolical. I prefer Arai.

[@kaiserguian]

It is the best implementation for me living in a tropical country. Makes it load useable at night with minimal fuss

[@diegosantos9752]

Gt air 3 pinlock coverage is a bit shite, it sits in your peripheral. Also i find the ratchet strap a little faff as it can press on your throat unless i pull it forward after fitting the helmet. Overall the fit is great, i did have to use spacers to get the speakers closer to my ears as the sound was a little lacking when locked into the resets . The chin curtain comes loose on one side from how tight it is to get on and off, i had to add a rubber wedge to one side and that seems to have fixed it. I reckon if they had used the chin curtain from the neotec 3 it would have reduced the volume inside the helmet a little more as i feel a lot of air coming through the perforations when all the vents are closed. Great review and very informative, one of the best reviewers on youtube. Keep it up

[@garrett1144]

In the United States, I only had access to the Spartan GT and RS and I really liked both of them as well as the Arai. I ended up finding the Shark Spartan GT Pro Carbon overseas and I've been wearing it for about a year now. I will say I love the snug feeling and the amazing visor and drop-down shade. The venting is also pretty good, better than some of the other helmets I've tried. The whistling was definitely a thing at first but after some use and wearing my ear plugs, I really don't hear it much anymore. Not sure if something changed or what but it seemed to be a minor issue now. I fit the cardo packtalk edge with the large speakers just fine, it works great!

[@ari__clips4296]

Were you able to find any dark tinted visors for it??

[@Dylzhaar]

My girlfriend got a Shark Spartan RS carbon and I ended up wearing it more than she did and I have to say it is absolutely excellent. I genuinely cannot think of any flaws with it whatsoever other than the sun visor misted from time to time. I'm getting one for myself and I would recommend it to anyone, especially for the price you can get them for.

[@bigal5895]

Excellent vlog. Just bought the Arai Quantic after having a Shoei Neotec 2 for the last 4 years. The Shoei is a quality piece of kit but I did struggle a little with fit. After experimenting with skull caps it was acceptable but never supremely comfortable. The other issue I had with the Shoei was ventilation, always found it a stuffy helmet to wear on hot days ( with vents open) unless of course you ride with the chin bar up. The Arai Quantic is sooo comfortable and fits me perfectly. I agree the ventilation is excellent and I wear specs which is no problem fitting and removing. Noise wise I always wear ear plugs and find the Arai the same as the Shoei - a quiet helmet. I am delighted with the Arai Quantic and so far I do not miss the Shoei at all....well apart from the sun visor! - however I have bought a tinted visor for the Arai and a Oxford visor holster belt to carry it in 😎👍

[@mattg9123]

I'll throw my bias points in as I've got an arai quanitic and took it on a 4500 mile european adventure. First off, it fits my head perfect. Is easy to get on and off and doesn't catch my ears. The intercom is incredibly comfortable once fitted, as the speakers go inside the liner, so your ears are against the helmet liner not the speaker. Downsides, no drop down visor, but this is expected. I used a pair of safety glasses when I got caught out in the dark. Naggles, One of the visor brow vents broke off, good luck getting a replacement for a VAS-V visor... Lots claim its heavy, you wont notice it unless you're swapping between helmets.

[@alp3781]

I bought the HJC 90S Carbon and really love it. Such a great value helmet.

[@tharangabasnayake]

Congrats on your 50 donations John! Only just noticed the certificate so apologies if this is months old 😊

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Thanks! I'm up to 57 now - I just put it there to hopefully encourage people to consider giving blood if they can. Cheers, John

[@tharangabasnayake]

@@bennettsbikesocial Nice work! I've been giving plasma for a while and an hour a fortnight is really not that much effort for the potential good it does. Hoping to crack 200 donations this year 🤞🏾

[@bennettsbikesocial]

@@tharangabasnayake awesome work! I tried platelet donations three times but my veins wouldn't do it. Was gutted!

[@tharangabasnayake]

@@bennettsbikesocial I haven't tried platelets myself but with plasma I find being hydrated (a couple of liters over the day before heading in) helps. Once plugged in the process takes about 45 minutes, though every so often there'll be an extra run for less than 10ml. That said, apparently I have "good veins," as creepy as that sounds...

[@V4zz33]

Go with the quietest helmet on the market, the HJC! I have it since its release in May, I love it because I can listen to music on lower volume for the same effect compared to before. And it's modular.

[@dogukanaydogdu8025]

Which model?

[@V4zz33]

@@dogukanaydogdu8025 HJC RPHA 91 2023 - kzbin.info/www/bejne/qaK0ZnV_hbeXhKs I've bought mine in May 2023, and I too just about to watch the new video of the 2024 round up. 2024 - kzbin.info/www/bejne/i4HNg4iLl8eih80 Have fun!;))

[@dogukanaydogdu8025]

@@V4zz33 thanks buddy :)

[@2fun2stp]

have tried all and I love my arai the best. fit ,comfort, sound all A+

[@megcrust7327]

Tried an Arai on and it was a lovely fit, but beyond my means, who said money can't buy happiness.

[@jonathanmackie4884]

Adopted an unused Arai from a relative in the 90s and found it was such a good fit and quality I have always stuck with them. Tried others but they just aren't right for me. Have no need for the drop down sunshade. It is sunny, tint visor; it is not, clear visor; if in doubt, shades in pocket. So you can stick your sunshade where the sun don't shine - see what I did there!? And I have always preferred the double d ring strap for variability and reassurance that it is most definitely fastened!! But I never fasten my helmet with gloves on, so... Also, I only ever operate my visor with left hand. Always have, so no issues with the position of latch on Arai. Each to their own I guess but fit, quality and company ethos make Arai the choice for me. Thanks for reminding of the reasons I made my choice. Good video as always.

[@davehudson2064]

Always had shoei nxr but changed to Arai profile for my last helmet. Much prefer Arai although probably not as many features as nxr. Just much more comfier and feels plusher.

[@bennettsbikesocial]

The NXR is a sportier lid than the GT Air 3, so more snug all round.

[@echo9996]

When i started biking in 1980 my first full face helmet was an Everest from there I moved on to the Bell Tour Star and in 1984 i bought my first Arai Rapide Wes Cooliey replica it Cost me then £200 when i put it on it fitted like a glove a year later my mate sold me his Shoei Wayne Gardener Replica tried it for a Month or so but did not like the fit or visor so went back to my Arai and have only had Arai as my main helmet since then …For Me Arai are the benchmark which all other helmets manufacturers try to aspire to….

[@Trumpets4me]

Another brilliant and informative video. Arai for me all the way. Happy New Year everyone.🎉

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Thanks! And a Happy new year to you too! Cheers, John

[@jeffestrada6857]

As always I think your videos are the best in regards to motorcycle accessories/reviews. Clearly spoken with concise no bullshit presentation giving us the consumer knowledge and confidence of being well informed before purchase Thank you so much 👍

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Thank YOU so much! Cheers, John

[@diggeronenineone7254]

I have a Shark Spartan GT, I really like the fit and the visor adjustment, the only couple of things I'm not so keen on is, as a glasses wearer I find that on cooler days with the sun visor down my glasses can steam up in slower traffic and the rubber skirt thing on the back of the aperture sometimes catches the collar of my leather jacket, but not the textile ones.

[@joshuadeocareza6583]

I have an Arai Cross Tour 5 & a Shoei Glamster and X-14. And I love all of them. Depends on what time of ride I use them. Great brands!

[@firatsanliturk]

A dropdown sunshield is a BIG selling point for me. I just can't stop to put on sunglasses or change visors everytime the sun comes out of the clouds or put them back off before entering a tunnel or garage. And bright sunlight is a big issue in my Mediterranean city especially during summer months. No. Now the so called gap between the helmet's chinguard and the bottomline of the sunbisor is actually a good thing. Considering proper head-eye position while driving, that gap helps you see the indicators more easily without affecting the sight ahead. Ligh leak from your peripherals should not matter all that much unless you're riding on a mirror surface for hours. I can't think of any scenario where peripheral light leak caused me any discomfort even under desert type riding conditions. Shoei looks great to me.

[@wunsen95]

Got a discountinued blue/grey/black quantic from J&S today, can't wait for it to arrive. Tried a different colour in store so know it fits. Wanted to spend £200-300 originally but can't complain at an Arai for £400

[@codemonkey181]

Another fantastic video, thank you. I'm in a budget helment at the moment and will be going to a more premium one soon. This has really highlighted things I need to consider over and above the general fit.

[@bobbralee1019]

I've had an Arai RX7 then went to two shoei flip fronts the Multitec and a Neotec when I bought a touring bike with a big screen and could ride with the flip up, but having moved to a naked bike really wanted a full face again. Tried many on but the Arai Quantic stood out as the best for me, I never gelled with the RX7 but this new Qualtic addressed all the things I didn't like about the older lid, However I do agree it chips far more easily than the Shoei.

[@erskasuurland5518]

Another nice review. I don't know why Arai (always my choice) doesn't do genuine photochromic visors in 1985 my glasses has photochromic, I believe Shoei has it as an option. Pinlock has photocromic option........so the drop down sunshade thing is a bit unnecessary.......but I would like if Arai did it as an option in their visors

[@Pommo70]

I have a Bell qualifier that I bought 4 years ago for my first lid and that has a photochromic visor. That’s a beginner helmet and cost me around £160, it’s superb and a real game-changer. That just proves to me that any manufacturer can make them but they want to make more money by selling tinted visors to the people who’ve already spent £5-£600 on a lid. Robbery.

[@nickrider5220]

I found that Arai fitted my head really well and have been with them for 22 years now, just fit better than my previous AGV, Shoei and Nolan......just like you say, try them and find the best fit 👍

[@G-Man01]

Ive usually used AGV, & Shark helmets. But the best helmet ive ever had has been the Kabuto Aeroblade 3. Made in Japan. Oft overlooked brand.

[@MadJackVideos]

I seen an Arai in a store and liked the smaller round profile compared to my current scorpion so i think i may try them when it comes time for a change.

[@owlteachereducation]

Excellent as always: Bennett's is the benchmark of review sites.

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Thanks! Cheers, John

[@grahamgraham4263]

I use a photochromatic visor in the summer on my Shoei which doesn’t have a drop down sun shield.

[@TheRealBhuado]

Arai and Shoei on top. whichever one you choose, you cannot go wrong.

[@DarthDainese]

Most of my life I had Shark Foggy Rep's, even the X-Lite one, until I went to the Arai X4, really solid helmet

[@garybarker5750]

I only got my motorbike licence in July. It was really interesting how naïve I was in regard to helmet choice. I was basically just looking at which one I liked the design of! Luckily my friend's dad gave me the best helmet advice you can have - try as many different ones on as you can. This turned out to be especially true being a glasses wearer. I bought a dedicated pair of glasses for my bike with reactive lenses (I do the same for car driving) and found that only a Nolan helmet and Arai Quantic fitted really well with the glasses on. Others just didn't sit as well (my favourite without glasses was the Shoei). My sena 50s kit fits better to the Arai and so that was the helmet for me. With the reactive glasses the clear screen is absolutely fine even in mid summer days and I find they only ever steam up when going slowly at the very start of a ride (maybe due to the helmet/glasses not being up to temp or something). How fortunate was I that one of the most expensive was the best fit??? 😂😂 3000 miles later I have no issues at all with it, if anything it's slightly more comfortable as the helmet beds in (which is something you need to consider when buying - it will give a bit so any slack will get slightly bigger). These reviews are brilliant at giving a comparison between the helmets and some of the features that you may want/ prefer but I would say the only way to choose really is to try them on.

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Glad you got such good advice! Cheers, John

[@beverleynorth4914]

Another super detailed review Thank you

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Thanks for watching! Cheers, John

[@chrisgibbs1615]

Used to have an aria but changed to a shark spartan carbon, love the Drop down sun visor and main visor position change mechanism. I listen to music using ultimate custom Bluetooth sound ear protection, the helmet is a snug fit so just take care to take on and off over ears. Did like aria but a touring helmet with out a sun visor is a joke.

[@barryrose4850]

John I’ve been using the pro shade for 3 years now absolutely love it,I’m Arai through and through. Great review bro 👍

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Cheers! I know others like it too, and it's good that it's an option. Cheers, John

[@veers0r]

Thanks a lot for the review. I'll get a new helmet this year and those are the main candidates. I love Arais, they fit me best but the I really don't think the no sun visor but works out as a net security plus - even when ignoring practicality. Sure it might make the helmet a bit stronger at the same weight and size but riding with a clear visor when it's bright outside is fatiguing at best, and a dark visor in a dark tunnel is even worse and that will increase my accident risk. So I guess it will be the Shoei for the road and I'l stick to Arai for the track.

[@pksvkpk4801]

. I use a tinted visor even for night rinding .. arai best helmet I Own alot . Thier tinted visor work great. ... most comfortable.

[@JamesJoyce-gk5jf]

I wear a Arai Viper GT.... Yes I know it's an old helmet (10 yrs old but it's seen little miles & well looked after). Had an Arai back in the 90's the went AGV but found the AGV innards wore out fairly quickly plus it had a seatbelt clip style to secure the chin strap which i felt wasn't that safe should a crash occur. As for wind noise I've always been in the opinion that Arai's are noisier than most other helmets brands. Looking for a flip face helmet now too & am just about to watch the video on the Neotec 3. Great Video & stay safe out there

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Give the Arai Quantic a try... It's a huge step up

[@thewrongbike7709]

I just bought my 3rd helmet in 6 years or 60,000 miles of all weather riding. 2 problems with this video (and all others) for me is no mention of visibility in poor weather: First rule of motorcycling is don't crash. In 60,000 miles of all weather riding, I have never tested a helmet's impact protection. Your testing appeared to be on an ADV rather than a sports touring bike. Since the head angle is different, upward visibility becomes an issue. Riding a stock VFR800 in a Shoei GT air. I found I had difficulty seeing traffic lights. I switched to an HJC R-PHA70 which was much better The other factor that gets missed is wet/cold weather. The GT-air visor fogged in traffic. My HJC R-PHA70 leaked in the rain, but it was worse when I cracked the vision open. All the stored water around the top of the visor ran inside, soaked the fabric, and the resulting vapour fogged it completely. I have given up in The HJC because the visor cracked on 2 places and the pinlock fell out. Yesterday I looked at of these lids as possible replacements.EXCEPT the Arai (no sun visor - sun dazzling causes crashes): * The HJC has an improved visor, but its jerky and rattles when you close it. Plus the latch on the side doesn't seem glove friendly. The imposition of someone else's comms tech was there real deal breaker though. * The Shoei is really nice but no breath guard. Is really expensive if you care more about function than ascetics. (and similar comms real estate issues, if I remember correctly). * I went for the Shark because its just a well fitting lid with a sun visor and everything seem to work.

[@bennettsbikesocial]

If you check out the full written reviews you'll see all the testing done for this summary video

[@jamiecrossley2484]

I've bought a Quantic, and agree with all your points....love it but I bought mine in a kind of matt grey and the stonechat are standing out to the point where I may get it professionally painted...

[@simondepass4647]

Great video! I own this exact Shark helmet and the visor shuts itself above 80km until I realised I was tighten the wrong screw now fixed. The pinlocks don't last long sadly. Good helmet not a great helmet. 7.5/10 on the IMDB scale.;)

[@corujariousa]

We can't go wrong with Shoei and Arai. Your head shape should be the real factor of choice between the two. Shoei fits me very well. Unfortunately, I have never found an Arai for me. I personally do not like Shark and HJC helmets. The quality doesn't compare to Shoei, Arai and other top brands.

[@andyninja949]

Just bought a new arai quantic for £369 reduced from £599 absolute bargain 👌

[@bennettsbikesocial]

That's a great deal!

[@marcoaguiar3226]

Would be cool if you tested the new sport touring Schubert S3 which at the moment it's my favourite st helmet with a micrometric closure but maybe use a similar testing method for wind noise to Champion Helmets where you can actually find out that the rpha 71 and gtair helmets measured 98db when at the same speed and similar wind conditions on a dual carriageway and the s3 measured 100db while the arai measured noisier at 101db. Ventilation wise they stated that schubert s3, shoei gt3 and rpha71 are better than the quantic as well... Just passing on the stats.

[@mad082sss]

I bought the older Rpha 70 based off the champion testing and found it horribly noisy, as have others (based on the comments I've seen since). The issue being that they test on a bike with a big screen (which cuts out a lot of wind), so if you ride a naked bike like i do then the results aren't accurate. Some helmets that got higher noise ratings from champion seem to quieter in real life on a naked. I'm in the process of getting a new helmet through insurance after a crash and have been offered the rpha 71 as it's the new version of what i had, but a quick google search found a bunch of people complaining about wind noise, so I'm reluctant to get it. Although i did find some tips on how to reduce the noise, but it does kind of make the drop down visor useless, as the mechanism is part of the problem.

[@mac46rr]

Always loved Arai helmets but currently have an HJC 90 in Carbon. Lovely helmet but about 20% less in quality than Arai. 🙂 My ultimate would be a Tour X5 in Carbon with a drop down sun visor. 😁 if only. 😄😁

[@JCavSD]

HJC seems to fit my head better than any other brand. However, the visor detent is very weak and I was forced to ride with the visor either completely closed, crack so little that it might as well be completely closed, or fully open. I jumped ship to AGV.

[@SteveMuir]

I jsut ordered 2 Aria Quantric.On sale 15% off (Self and the wife.) I looked at the Schubert as well as those 3 as wind noise was high on the list. (I have the VFR 800 Gen 5 in red like the bike in theI have in the corner.)I had the Aria X7 I started riding in in the 80s, The Quantum E which had the best fit when new and the Vector 2. Seemed a safe bet the stick with Aria. I tried the Shoei RF 900 way back in 99 but the fit gave me a headache Didn't like the fit of the GT air 2 either. . I don't think I wanted the drop down visor.. The helmets come with the Aria sun shade thing but were free so no loss if we don't like them. Thanks for the review. All the points of the 3 helments and what I personally want ,the Aria is the right pick. Glad you didn't change my mine or would have to ring the store on Monday. I did watch the release video you did of the Quantric. You almost sounded liike a fan boy even though said you didn't want too.

[@anxiousappliance]

Oddly the best shield mechanism I've used is my Bell Star. It only has 2 settings besides lock: City gap and all the way open. The gap is the ideal you describe, and I ponder why anyone would ride with a shield halfway open. As to Arai's unchangeable safety philosophy: Sharp UK "inspired" them to change their shell construction around the neck and collar, because repeatable testing showed it to be weak. The new ECE standards seem good, especially regarding rotational protection, and I think we'll see a lot of shell changes. Sharp says it more closely resembles their testing - convergent evolution?

[@seansixfive]

With a 58.5cm head, I never know whether to go for M(57-58cm) or L(59-60cm). I usually go with M in the hope the padding loosens up a bit with a few months.

[@stephenwepener4571]

Been riding motorcycles most of my life, from MX, through sport bikes and now enjoying Adventure bike riding. Had the opportunity to use and enjoy most of the helmets you mentioned, in 2013 I bought my first Shark helmet and for me and the riding I now do, I won’t be looking at anything else going into the future. Each helmet has its own merits and is designed for the type of riding one does. Then look for comfort. Really great honest video. Well done.

[@ozbusa]

Well, well... And I thought I was the only one that had air drafts around the ears with the HJC. Have the carbon 70 and the draft around the left ear starts to hurt after about an hr. Back to shoei for me..

[@peterjohnson4006]

My pal had a nightmare with a shark warranty claim, the strap was fraying in the few months, shark refused to do anything, claiming it was the Velcro on his gloves that did it. The dealer (p&h) did however gave him a refund at their cost and a good deal on an Arai

[@PokerMuppet]

Having been wearing a Shoei NXR for just over 5 years... I'm definitely looking at the Neotec 3 as it's replacement. I've never been fond of the GT-Air line.

[@soots-stayingoutofthespotl5495]

Why move to a flip helmet; has your usage changed or have you encountered any downsides to the NXR? Why not an NXR2 when it comes time to change?

[@PokerMuppet]

@@soots-stayingoutofthespotl5495 I like my NXR and it's great for days when you are out on your own or it's not overly hot, but there are times when you just want to flip up the front either to get air and cool down or to avoid having to take your helmet off every time to chat or you're out in nature somewhere and want to just sit on the bike a take it in.

[@soots-stayingoutofthespotl5495]

@@PokerMuppet Oh right, I totally get it.

[@mr.ajayjose]

I got 2 Spartan GT and its super comfortable but tried on Shoei which felt like custom fit. Its just i like the styhling better on Shark.

[@stuartwalters8609]

Got the shark and its a great lid all round not because of, but including the price fit and finish holding up with daily use in all weathers better than the hjc it replaced after that ate its thrid and final visor mechanism.

[@skywalker7517]

The main problem for me with these Helmets is the weight, never tried any of these brands, I would love to but they are expensive, except for hjc,and i can't wear heavy Helmets,I have neck problems,and can't wear a helmet for a long period of time, I've seen most of the reviews of every helmet brand you can think of, every new model,I'm not a big fan of a drop down sun visor, but I have an old Mt with it, it was my first helmet and I didn't have the experience, it wasn't that bad,after alot of reviews I decided to pull the trigger on the agv k6s,the lightest helmet with ece 06 cert, and it doesn't come with adrop down just like arai, I found a good deal on a not that bad colorway!!

[@PhilbyFavourites]

I’ve owned various Arai, Shark and currently on a Shoei GT AIR-2. Really informative video, but until Arai go for a built in sun visor they won’t be getting my money….

[@splodge57]

Agree, wouldn't buy a helmet without the sun visor.

[@Spriterom]

I had HJC RPHA70 and I loved it. I bought HJC RPHA71 and the noice is killing me. Some sort of whirling right next to my ears, I think it's due to redesign in the lining and the channels for the intercom... Now I am back to looking for another helmet. I could not get Arai or shoei to fit well for some reason. I really wanted to get neotec2 or neotec3.

[@marcoaguiar3226]

Hi I also have the rpha 71 now and that niggle is easily fixed by: 1st installing any BT coms system to fill the speaker pockets (mine is the new and original Hjc smart 11b which is a very good one btw) 2nd Using my motosafe touring earplugs. Problem solved! Ride Safe Ps If you are thinking of going flip up/modular helmet rpha 91 is the quietest helmet in the world and it's the best modular I've ever owned. Cheers

[@Spriterom]

@@marcoaguiar3226 thank you for your feedback. I wasn't that keen on getting BT speakers. I know earplugs work but I was still getting distracted by the noise that was being generated. I ended up getting Shark Spartan RS. Noise reduction is really good for my head/size.

[@mad082sss]

I've got a rpha 70 and find the noise horrible. I had an old, cheap helmet that was quieter around town. The noise is less with the visor open, but as soon as i shut it, i get this deep, reverberating wind noise (even at 60kmh/35mph). I had to make up a bigger chin curtain and wear a scarf to reduce the noise, and even stuck some foam around the base of the chin, as i found putting my hand up to the chin bar cut most of the wind noise. But my helmet got damaged in a crash, so now i need a new helmet, and my insurance company has offered me the 71. I'm reluctant to take it, especially after a quick google search. It seems that all the testers who review it and test the wind noise have big windscreens, so if you ride a naked bike like i do, then the tests are useless.

[@Dennild]

i bought the arai and its the best fit on my head shoei is a close 2nd. If i was gonna buy one today it would be the shoei the DD rings is the safest maybe but the shoei is so much easier with gloves. sunshades in the shoei is the best just works so much better than the arai solution.

[@DavidM2002]

I thought the dumbest thing that I ever did was to buy an Arai helmet. Nope. The dumbest thing I did was buying a 2nd Arai helmet. Finicky visor pivot and excessively fragile vents that broke when you look at them. And, even though it was otherwise sized correctly, I had real pain from the pressure against my ears such that wearing ear plugs for more than half a day was impossible. Going back to a Shoei solved every issue.

[@Milen4u]

My BMW Street X helmet has a lot of similar or same parts design as the the Shark. Now I know who makes it for them.

[@davidmcmillan8408]

GT Air II for me. One fault though - there is no setting that leaves the visor a teeny bit (1mm?) open to clear misting. My old Shoei Skeet had this facility.

[@keithkeller6509]

All internal sun visors look like “nose slicers” in crash. Had an HJC modular with one and it was clear my nose was going to suffer if that helmet ever rotated forward in a crash. For me the Photochromatic/Transitions visors are the real solution to having a tinted or clear shield when you need it, especially when touring. But unfortunately only a few helmets have those as options. That’s why the Shoei RF 1200/1400 are my choice for s sport touring helmet. And lighter than a modular or any of these in this test and with an optional Photochromatic Pinlock visor.

[@chakrapanid6089]

Thanks John. I have been using the Arai Quantic for about 6 months now. Completely agree with all the points that you covered. Your review is spot on. The Arai is extremely spectacle friendly. I have fitted a helmet intercom. Only point that I have observed is after about 3 to 4 hrs of wearing, my ears tend to compress against the speakers causing a bit of discomfort. Have you experienced this? Thanks for the great content.

[@bennettsbikesocial]

I haven't I'm afraid, sorry! It'll really depend on head shape though

[@deco5159]

Arai every time for me.

[@cliveomahoney4096]

So many tests have been done on helmet fasteners. The double D is, by far, the cheapest, easiest to use (admittedly not while you have gloves on, but why anyone would do that defeats me) and, most importantly, the safest. I use Shoei because they fit me the best. I'm sure the other helmets are just as good. But, I wouldn't buy a helmet with any strap securing device other than the DD.

[@grossibp]

In Shoei GT 3 you can change it to DD.

[@JoeIannone]

Cycle Gear store here in Texas is an official Arai dealer and they won’t give you thicker/thinner cheek pads for the perfect fit. They make you buy them. I wonder if they only do this in Europe

[@Unky69]

ya, i do agrees with the issue which was addressed on the pro-shade lol

[@BaghdadSon78]

I have been using the RPHA 70 for 3 years and it has been the best one of all other i tested (Shoei, Schubert, and others). I even tested the RPHA 71 and I have to say that it is a lot worse than the RPHA 70. So I bought a new RPHA 70 Carbon for the next season which is an amazing helmet

[@dreamcrusher112]

You find it loud compared to others? My H70 requires speakers on full and my exhaust reverberates inside the helmet vs my agv

[@BaghdadSon78]

@@dreamcrusher112 do you have the right size? I have tested a lot more expensive brands and still the RPHA 70 beats them

[@cpuuk]

Everyone has a different shaped head. Most important thing to me is wind noise- I like 'em quiet.

[@diegocella6791]

Top Job as always! I did try the Arai shade thingy years ago... and it was the horridiest thing ever. Always was in the wrong place, and not covering up the sun, now i have the internal visor and it's ok, i'm wearing glasses with self darkening lenses and they are amazing! Better than may eye! However the internal sun visor it's goof for the low wintery sun! And speaking of Arai, i did were it for years, but dropped it 5/6 years ago for the build quality, especially the visor way too easy to scratch and the plastic trim started to fell apart like it was nothing! Plus in Italy Arai cost a boat, did they improve the quality?

[@bennettsbikesocial]

I've never had any issue with quality - always very good. Support is excellent too. Cheers, John

[@antonisr827]

Any possibility of Arai creating a photochromic visor?? I think that would be great!!!

[@MyMednas]

I would upgrade my GT-Air 2 to a 3, but the Sena is not compatible. Very strange decision because it adds over £ 300 to also upgrade the Sena.

[@bennettsbikesocial]

It is frustrating, though the SRL 3 is a higher spec and it's more compact. But yes, it'll be annoying for anyone who has it.

[@krzysztofpokrzywa9517]

There is a adaptor kit now to fit GT AIR 3.

[@pepcooper]

Well... Sharp's testing might be handy. But in my own experience, HJC's RPHA lineup it's by far the worst of the 4. I work at a motorcycle gear shop and we've seen a few of them split in half under various conditions. I'll always tell customers that yes, it's got 22.06 rating, so if you 100% want one, fine, of course it provides some degree of protection but nothing anywhere close to the other 3 mentioned or even some others that are even cheaper.

[@rickterry8148]

I have shoei gt air 2, the top vent needs looking at, and a small piece of sticky felt. placed on the opening, seals it up perfectly, otherwise there is a continious draft. I live in Scotland and it needs to be sealed shut 🙂 Otherwise, its very light, sun visor is great, but unlike you, I don't like the c;icky chinstrap.

[@PetrolHeader]

Thanks for the video. I have the quantic and like it a lot. But the spoiler is too fragile. It's only lightly glued over the edges and can be detached even with minor hits on soft surfaces.

[@bennettsbikesocial]

I've swung mine about by it and knocked it without it coming off. It is designed to detach in crash though. Have a word with your dealer and I'm sure they'll sort it. Cheers, John

[@PetrolHeader]

@@bennettsbikesocial mine came off with probably a very unlucky angle of attack against a couch. I've put it back in place and it holds since then, but i would still have like a slightly stronger fitment. Make sense that it would fly off in a crash though.

[@paulcummings1566]

My fifth hjc. I always have xl which is 61 62 cm, but this 71 model I had to have xxl which is 62 63 cm plus the visor system is poor as it's either fully open or closed.

[@markscrivener979]

Great video thanks very much. I also find arai lids the most comfy, and I can’t get on with shark lids at all. Just wondering if bike social does merch as I like the look of that jacket? Could not see it on the bike social website.

[@TheOnceAndFutureDoug]

Love these reviews. I'm just in the market for a new helmet and really wanted this exact breakdown. I think I'm leaning Arai after this? Comfort and ventilation are really important to me. One thing I was thinking about for Arai was that a lot of other manufacturers had to (chose to?) come out with new lids to meet ECE 22.06 but Arai mostly just went "our helmets are fine". I don't know how accurate that impression is (someone correct me, please) but if that was indeed the case it does suggest that there's something to Arai just being safer over all. How much? Who can say? But I'll take every bit I can get.

[@bennettsbikesocial]

The RX-7V Evo was basically unchanged to meet 22.06

[@anonymousanonymous8306]

can you get a photochromic shield for the Shoei? I've been using one on my Bell Racestar for years and I can't go without it. I'm ready for a quieter, plusher helmet than my race rigs.

[@RacingEnclave]

Yes you can my friend has it for his shoei

[@anonymousanonymous8306]

For 20 years I've run 2" black tape on the top of my visor, no peak necessary, i even remove them from my adv helmets.

[@soeu10]

I just want to add my experience to maybe help someone. Coming from a GT AIR 2 I planned to buy a GT AIR 3. Long story short, I returned it after 10 minutes only. The sun visor on the GT AIR 3 goes down if you ride with the clear visor open!!! it even lets air in. very bad quality IMO, Also, side note, it actually seemed worse in terms of noise than the gt air 2. So yeah, if you're like me, stay with the GT AIR 2.