How much should you pay for a motorcycle helmet? | Cheap vs Expensive: what is the best brand?

[@daveshegedin2576]

Interesting investigation ! One thing that made me cringe though was the one handed use of the grinder. If I'm not mistaken ,and have sussed out the direction of rotation of the blade, a grab would have resulted in the grinder jumping out and powering in to your left hand at 0:09 ..yuck!! I frequently use a grinder single handed but do not have the other hand in the line of fire. I have worked in steel fabrication for years and grinders are so versatile but take no prisoners .Gloves wont stop them..I know. With belt sanders and most other rotating machinery I prefer a bit of belt rash or barked skin to a "pull in" when the belt grabs your glove or other clothing, so I usually don't wear gloves on the belt and make sure all clothing is well clear and / or tucked in tight. Be careful out there. Cheers, Dave NZ.

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Thanks. It was a cack-handed way to use the grinder, but having used one for years for testing chains and locks, I was careful of how it wanted to pull and considered what it was doing while I used it. The guard on the back of the blade helped protect my right hand but I was extra cautious of it jumping out, especially when it started to bind. Cheers, John

[@notpoliticallycorrect1303]

Those 1 mm discs dig flesh very quickly!,my youngest fitter is currently sporting a nice big crusty scab on his middle finger knuckle,it's at the stage where he can't bend it because it's too thick and hard😂. kn' youngsters don't listen!

[@paredding]

Totally - I was just cringin through that - frightening

[@delazzuro]

I just cut my helmet open to see how it was made but now it won’t join back up properly...will glue fix it?😂

[@destructiveblue]

Flex tape it bro.lol

[@maekong2010]

Duct tape! 😆

[@FinnBjerke]

EAR WAX IS WHAT THE PROS USE.....

[@gudgengrebe]

😂😂😂

[@mparsons7737]

Only crazy glue

[@cpuuk]

The Arai was clearly more angle-grinder resistant, which is a prime buying point for me ;-)

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Ha! To be honest, it was noticeably harder to cut. I had to edit out the breaking of two discs, though that was down to me twisting it.

[@giuliobuccini208]

The lesson is: never buy second-hand helmets from Bennets... : ) : ) : )

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Bit of glue and gaffa tape and nobody will know

[@hardworkingamerican8847]

Why not , they are thoroughly inspected .

[@Turco949]

Second-hand is OK but a brand new half helmet from the show would be a different story because I'd not know what he was referring to as "half helmet"

[@dreumhansip7874]

Lol

[@fuglbird]

@@hardworkingamerican8847 Because they have spiders living in them!

[@henriksnderby2399]

Arai- I unfortunately have experience from several crashes but Arai helmets have always kept me safe.

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Glad you're okay!

[@peytonhibdon7659]

My first thought was I'm not going to watch all half hour of this video, but I did. Interesting information on the different in lids.

[@saheltaja]

Appreciate the Wilhelm scream when the grinder turns on at 8 seconds.

[@shafiqautovlog]

I clean my visor every time after the rain just using clean water and microfibre cloth. Sometimes there is a bug stuck really hard and I use a little bit of dish wash, rinse it on a running tap water, wipe it dry and looking good as new. Thanks for making this video, thumbs up 👍

[@pittsburghchip4645]

I've been riding 32 years and have obviously had many helmets. Had a lot of shoei but using agv now. I think it's a lot of bang for the buck. Arai seems to be the most comfortable though but really like the drop-down screen of the agv. It is a carbon composite and comes with different tabs for screen settings. Good crash ratings and comes with a pinlock visor. All this I got for 250 on sale and is also a nice fitting and good looking helmet too! Like I said, I like bang for the buck... Stay safe my fellow riders.👍🇺🇸

[@barrymarshall2191]

Hi, Great explanation of price difference. I shopped hard for a helmet last year and figured that since they were all tested to a standard fit was the most important factor. Happily the cheaper HJC FG-17 proved best. A year on and I have had to stitch the upper edges of the cheek pads to pull them back to avoid hamster cheeks, the outer edges of the rubber nose guard have sprung up like butterfly wings and I have had to pad the crown to get brow visibility back. Noise is important to me and the HJC is wind tunnel tested. (A purchase factor) I can only assume they tested for stability, which is good, not noise, which is a symphony of high speed air whistles. No amount of trial and error with duct tape solved the problem. The point you make about inset pin visors showing a distracting line is a considerable annoyance to me specially as I have rarely found the pin necessary as ventilation is good. A lot of folks complain about the visor indexing being weak but I find mine works well. The helmet is light enough for a plastic composite and the general liner condition, after about 10,000 miles, is as new. I'd give the FG-17 about 5/10 overall, losing most for noise then collapsing crown padding and hardening cheek padding respectively. Price is its biggest bonus. Just as an aside, while looking for helmets I started checking the manufacture date, (by law a label inside the liner) some helmets were already 12 years-old! When I pointed this out to the staff they were overcome with indifference. Where you shop is vitally important. Thanks for a great guide and I hope this info helps. Barry Marshall, GSXR-750 British Columbia, Canada

[@fuglbird]

You bought in imported helmet? Why not make a classical Canadian helmet with the outer shell made of maple and the inner shell made of fir and balsa?

[@Angusbone]

bought an RX7 in Tokyo, half the price of the UK, Ride On Pro Shop in Taito City, the two guys that run it are amazing, spent over an hour changing different internal pads, making sure the lid was a perfect fit. Amazing product.

[@returnedtotheearth1326]

I just water and a soft cloth to clean my visor. Don’t see the need for any special cleaner. I clean it after every time I ride and they look good as new for years.

[@illduitmyself]

Lol come take night drive by the river...hody chit mang bug bomb galore

[@23DuDe]

I'd love to see the same comparison include a mid-priced helmet too

[@adriansayers7002]

That would have been useful instead of a piece of crap.

[@Ze-Germanzuk]

Shoei X-Spirit 3 for me, I wore an AGV for years and was never comfortable. Tried on the X-Spirit and it was perfect instantly.

[@2wheelsrbest327]

When John mentioned the change in shape of the cheap helmet and how it could get caught on the road I immediately thought of your helmet. I did buy one and it was a comfortable helmet but on my GS I felt I was not benefitting from its aerodynamics so sold it on.

[@Ze-Germanzuk]

@@2wheelsrbest327 Yeah not sure whether the aero let's on mine break off or not. I've tried a few different helmets and not found anything better for the MT10, helmet is comfortable for hours and so stable compared to others I've tried... But yeah on a GS you won't be benefiting from much of the aero

[@iamneallyons4263]

@@2wheelsrbest327 the vents on the shoei also detach/break away!

[@Back2TheBike]

Comprehensive and informative as always, thanks John. Mine is a Shoei Neotec. I like it, and the only fault is that flies sometimes get sucked through the top vent. For cleaning my visor I nip into Specsavers where they'll sell you a small spray bottle of glasses cleaner. Costs £2.50, designed for plastic specs and comes with a nice silk cloth. Lasts ages and provides a smear free finish, smells good too.

[@bennettsbikesocial]

On the list - thanks!

[@buckegit]

I've always used Shoei. I use a damp kitchen towel wait 10 mins while putting on jacket boots etc then bugs just wipe off. When I am out in the bike I bring a wet micro fibre cloth in zip bag and do the same thing as kitchen towel. 👍

[@drdoolittle5724]

Excellent work, thanks - My Dad gave me a brand new helmet 50 years ago, still going strong. Cox was the make, my partner borrows it as it fits fine and she and I have much pleasure when riding. She says now that it must be getting near its use by date because not as hard as it once was. I have planned to be buried with it it because it has meant so much to me!

[@shino8854]

Are you sure she was taking about that kind of helmet!?

[@MotorcycleEmporium]

I have worn Arai for years and will continue to do so, the cost is high but I would argue they absolutely represent good value, I value my life at a good deal higher than the price of any crash helmet. I also admire the integrity of a company that will take a hit on sales in order to ensure there product is as safe as possible, such as not fitting internal sun visors, proves they put protection before profit. Cleaned with Luke warm water and a drop of fairy liquid if a particularly stubborn bug. Also respect to Bennett’s for producing these very informative, interesting and valuable videos, if it saves one person from a brain injury it is money well spent.

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Thanks Mark! Have a great weekend, cheers, John

[@stevebolton8471]

As heads are different shapes there are no perfect helmets. I am enjoying a carbon fibre lid as it is much easier on my neck and would exert less force in a crash. Also the visor is photochromic so I don’t need an insert. (Lazer Monaco Evo). I can’t get into an Arai. Wear earplugs because deafness doesn’t catch up with you until you are older and the damage is cumulative.

[@TheMojomoto]

i'm cheap, but i've always worn Arai, Schuberth and Shoei. My latest Shoei GT-Air is lovely, but i do still think my old Arai Viper fit me just a bit better. Schuberth fit good but quality was complete nonsense for the price...600 eur and it fell apart after 2 years. Schuberth C3 was the quietest for a little while though.

[@triumphrider2002]

My wife and I had been using Shark helmets for years and the build quality just seemed to have gotten to be crap. We both still have Shark helmets out latest one the Evoline 3. It has not been worn much and the liner is coming apart. I bought an LS2 Pioneer helmet for 150 dollars and it has been awesome. Very comfortable and no more noisy as the Sharks. So Deb bought an LS2 and she loves it. Half the price of the Sharks and seems to be built a lot better. As far as cleaning my helmets I have used Pledge furniture polish for years. It will make the water bead up and slide right off the visor. It will also help the visor from fogging up. You will have to use clean micro fiber clothes. Works for me.

[@low-costgearbudgettour714]

I use SHARP ratings for my buying decisions, where possible. I got a Bell Race Star (5 star) for 50% off. I had one Arai and it gave me horrible headaches in the temples and forehead. Their side impact results are worse than they should be, according to SHARP so they are skimping on EPS in that location possibly to make a narrower profile or save weight. The Bell fits me with all day comfort. That being said, I’ve ordered the ECE22-06 Arai for my wife because she needs a new lid anyway. Hopefully it’ll fit her more round head than my oval. Great video, John.

[@MrG61-u9k]

Very interesting video. I recognise John from the Niken test at Bruntingthorpe. When I was after a flip front helmet I bought a Caberg for £99 to see I got on with flip fronts, after 3 months I bought a Multitec, the difference was night and day, in comparison the caberg was creaky, noisey and just generally clunky. Now have a Neotec 2 but still have an Arai Chaser V for occasional use which is also the helmet of choice for the wife.

[@pavanmuthanna2166]

Bell Qualifier DLX with MIPS, and I use clean water and a soft clean micro fibre cloth to clean the visor. The transitions visor is a great answer to carrying a spare around when I’m on multi day trips.

[@V4zz33]

I wear what fits the current budget and my head and it's quiet. Just like now, I found a HJC that fitted the budget but not my head, so went for a cheaper HJC that actually fitted my head and is quieter than the more expensive one because it doesn't have vents on the very top to make noise when it catches the air, because I am just too tall for the windscreen to be in a calm bubble.;))) I'm using a touring screen plus extension and still not enough;))

[@SteveWKk]

All screens suck......no matter what size..lol

[@V4zz33]

@@SteveWKk Could be the case, but I won't have the chance to find out.;)))

[@elitetileandstone]

I've saved all my helmets, going back to a Nava, from 1980. It's interesting to see how helmet technology has improved over the years. With the exception of an AGV X-R2, I have worn Shoei helmets since 1990. My current lud us a Neotec.

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Blimey! That lot must take up some space!

[@elitetileandstone]

@David Miatke , it's Nava. It was a. Italian company that got quite popular around the early 80's. They also produced a very unique ski boot and binding combination , that never really got popular. You can find them on Google.

[@jean-francoisservant720]

Currently using a HJC RPHA pro 11. Before was a Bell Race Star, before that was a Bell Star and before that were a few Arai corsairs and Quantum. Shield cleaning is done just like you do, with damp cloth staying on the visor a few minutes. On the go I’ve been using glasses cleaner and a soft cloth for years and never damaged a visor.

[@toothl3ss91]

I wear a Shoei RF1200. Ride a 1200GSA (65/35 street/offroad). Only helmet I have found that fits me perfectly. Neotech 2 also fits pefectly. Guess I will always be a Shoei guy.

[@MrCapri78]

Been wearing Arai RX7s since 1996 ( not the same one) and added a XD4 this year for my adv bike. For me, just the best most comfortable helmets.

[@modrevival168]

The Box helmet you use comes out very well in the Sharp ratings, 4/5

[@robertmifkovic6325]

Which is maximum rating for helmets with drop down sun visor.

[@ninja1150]

Various helmet manufacturers over the years in the £100-£180 range Vemar, Shark, HJC, latest one decided on Shoei Neotech 2, great fit, well made. I installed the Sena SRL Bluetooth system in it and it fits and works a treat with buttons hidden in cheek compartment. Only use water to clean visor and helmet.

[@craighawksworth6860]

HJC IS-17 for me. It was reasonably priced and scored really well on the sharps safety test site. moved away from a helmet that snapped open to a full face helmet. It's a little noisy but pretty comfy. And I'll get a new one in five years or thereabouts regardless of condition (the poly insides degrade over time and that shoei should be binned now matey).

[@mikewatson361]

I just use a water soaked piece of kitchen towel to lay over the visor, once the bugs are soaked I then use a piece of clean dry soft cloth to wipe them away. Great review and as always worth watching to the very end 👍👍

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Cheers Michael!

I tried all, really, top brands, and there is none like Schuberth, at least for sport touring and Adventure. S2/C3/C4 are second to none.

[@davereinhart9933]

The best video I have seen on knowing why we spend more on helmets.

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Thanks! John

[@shmac96]

The only helmet Ive ever found that fit perfectly and I liked it on my head was an AGV Ducati helmet. I wish I could find the model without the Ducati designation as it was a perfect fit. Otherwise I have tried on dozens of helmets from all kinds of brands and I just find they are all uncomfortable in one way or another. Thanks for this review!

[@dennisnoordam3221]

It is an agv k5

[@shmac96]

@@dennisnoordam3221 Thank you so much! I appreciate that! AGVs are hard to get ahold of here in Germany. Take care!

[@squirnt]

I'm using a lowes bucket covered in great stuff foam stuffed in a home depot bucket with two holes drilled in it to see out of. the home depot bucket is on the outside because it's bright orange, gotta be safe you know.

[@peva7945]

I daresay you wore a mask when cutting, but I'd have done that outside. Now, every time you open the garage door the draught will stir up the invisible carcenogenic dust for you to breathe in. Having had a visor destroyed by Rain-x I am careful what I allow to come in to contact with my visor. I clean using just warm water, or with mild hand soap if necessary, soaking with a paper towel when required to remove insects. I avoid clearing on the move with my glove as that tends to cause scratching, preferring to turn my head and allow fast windflow to shift the drops. Honest, officer😊

[@garrymannion6258]

Airoh gp 500 for the past 2years. Ride 1000km a week. I Soak in a wet paper towel, allow to air dry then Mr Sheen polish followed by much off speed polish.....makes water droplets fly off it. So far no problems at all. Thinking of changing to hjc IS Max 2 very impressed with the reviews/ 5 star safety rating price. Great video guys 👍👏

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Thanks! Have added those to the list. Cheers!

[@matthewkirsch327]

I take my faceshield with me when I shower, and put it somewhere where it will get splashed and soaked. At the end of the shower, I use the water spray and soap to clean. I put a dedicated microfiber cloth next to the towels for drying. As for the anticipated question (if you are old enough); I don't wash vegetables in the shower ;) Nice video, thank you.

[@johnroberthanna1623]

not 4 seconds into this vid and this cat is slicin' 'n dicin' ---- love it.!

[@martinfoster5163]

I’ve owned a few helmets: quite a few Bell full face and 3/4 helmets, Aria full face and Givi scooter helmet. My latest is a Bell Race Star which I’ve yet to ride in but I will soon in Vietnam. I like Bell’s innovations and use of slip planes, such as MIPS (in my previous MX9 adventure) and tri-flex lining in the Bell Race Star. The MX9 was a bit small (size L) and caused me headaches in the forehead after 1 hour of riding, as did the Arai. I remeasured my head and realized I needed a bigger size, which is why I got the Race Star in XL. I got it on sale for about £300 since the colour is unpopular but I like it (white, blue and hiviz yellow). I recommend getting a Sharp 5 star rated helmet and you don’t need to spend as much as I did. However fit is just as important so wear for at least an hour at home and return it if it starts to hurt. It maybe the wrong size but also an unsuitable shape liner - some are more oval some are more round.

[@MrEhf111]

When I started riding in 1980 my first helmet was a Simpson ... of course back then you were on your own regarding achieving proper fit etc ... after 30 minutes of riding it was absolute agony. Since then I've used Arai exclusively. Right now I've got a RX 7 and a Signet. Both are super comfortable all day, well ventilated and most importantly confidence inspiring. Excellent video, keep up the good work.

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Thanks! John

[@neilhamill318]

I've had a few helmets since I started riding road bike's that was back in 1979. 3 SHOEI 2 ARAI 1 AGV and 1 MARUSHIN .For me the perfect helmet would be a combination of ARAI'S comfort and SHOEI'S visor mechanism. So easy to remove and put back on.

[@app1mxh]

How was the AGV?

[@stuart6420]

Interesting video :) Just ordered my new agrius helmet today £51 4 star sharp rated with pinlock and sun visor

[@Bentsi2002]

I recently bought an AGV Corsa and I'm very happy with it.

[@philclarke7712]

Helmets are so subjective. AVG fits me so badly. Pressure points to n my forehead and the chin bar touches my face! Arai, on the other hand, I find incredibly comfortable.

[@skeeterjames912]

I'll be happy if when I crash I get a concussion rather than permanent brain damage because I spent a little more and got a shoei.

[@Bentsi2002]

@@skeeterjames912 I rather not crash at all, AGV is a good brand.

[@philclarke7712]

@@Bentsi2002 I agree, AGV is a great brand. You'll be fine with that purchase.

[@vonritter4945]

If someone ever stands on your head, Arai’s the helmet to have 👍

[@izoyt]

with high speed crash, there's big possibility your head will bump something with much greater force than let say 80kilos..

[@edmellor]

The other thing worth mentioning is dealer/manufacturers support, for instance Arai will replace the chin straps once free of charge and will send you replacement visor clips free of charge. The spare parts are also replaceable and can be purchased from their dealers. Just something else worth considering.

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Absolutely... It's great getting a free full service when you go to a bike show!

[@weaselman24]

I've worn rx7's for years. Nothing fits as good for me and I've had a serious head impact in one and it took it. Can't get better than that. I will never complain about the cost.

[@trekkydelirium-vroom5821]

You should wear working gloves 😉 I am an Arai happy owner & lover. My new one is an XD4.

[@roberthardy3090]

And respiratory protection!

[@ReferenceFidelityComponents]

Another great vid❤ I used to buy arai helmets until prices went silly on them and they did fit well but ventilation was never great. About 10 years back, I switched to Shark because the fit and finish and design was excellent for half the price. I now use the Shark Spartan Carbon which is a great quality lid and ad s glasses wearer I value the thought behind the drop down tinted visor still making glasses wearing comfortable plus the Shark integral intercom cut outs by the ears allow for blutooth buds connected to satnav. Great lids even if not quite up to shoei or arai standards.

[@geminiman7069]

Shark Pro Race R Carbon all the way. Lighter and with good vison for race, head up, and neck angles.

[@skeeterjames912]

For those complaining about price, you can get a shoei RF-SR for under 400 on sale, which has high end safety features. If you don't have 400, how will you buy tires? Chain and sprockets? Battery, oil changes? It's not that you can't afford a decent helmet, you can't afford to ride at all.

[@grapewater123]

That yellow helmet at the end is poor, to be in that state after just a year. I have a white box bx1 (the cheap helmet he cut open) which I replaced after about 40k and 3 years but it still looks almost brand new when washed and is a 4* sharps helmet. I know it's not the greatest but it's definitely good enough and if you look around you can find it for around £30. It really can't be beat in that aspect, just use ear plugs for motorways and it's very good

[@jammyone100]

Good video. Recently purchased a Frank Thomas FTSA001 and toured Spain with it and had jo issues. Can be a little noisy on motorways but I use custom fit ear guards. Good value and comfortable.

[@Tony-sj5yy]

I just bought a 6D helmet. The best protection street helmet on the market. Really happy with my purchase.

[@jayggg]

I read somewhere that Arai's helmets average SHARP safety rating is 3.5. I've seen a fair number of sub £100 helmets rated 3.5 or 3. So clearly not all Arai's are worth the money and at some point you'd be better off going with the 'cheaper' helmet. My own opinion is that with items like helmets, locks, tyres and loo roll - never compromise.

[@benstacey6710]

Johns a legend. Taught me to ride. I’m on my third Arai, they fit like a glove and are lighter than the cheap ones. Interesting that Shoei fit you better these days. Will have to try them again.

[@bennettsbikesocial]

He's a great instructor!

[@iamneallyons4263]

Shoei have brought out a range for a different shaped head compared to their classic shape.

[@jackmcdaniel1548]

I assume that each rider knows the value of his brain. My brain is very valuable to me and I buy/wear top line helmets. Visor cleaner is water and soft clean cloth.

[@TheIrishBosnian]

Or maybe your brain values itself.

[@tc9694]

I'm sure everyones brain is extremely valuable to them but not everyone has the same budget

[@ercelan]

Then you're very rich Oldman

[@michaelbamber4887]

@@tc9694 everyone comes out with that shit. Just save up for a month or two longer, you know how long your lid has till you need a new one. The sales also get you a top end helmet, I've just picked up an arai qv for 335 quid instead of 589. Helmet prices are insane.

[@maekong2010]

I remember the salesman saying, when buying my first helmet - decades ago now - if you've got a ten-quid brain then, by all means, get yourself a ten-quid helmet. It was his response to me saying, why are some of these helmets so god-damned expensive? Got his point across.

[@markkitaoka8783]

I've crashed three times on the racetrack. Two low sides at over 104 MPH and one high side at 140 MPH. On the high side, I was knocked unconscious my front teeth knocked out, and airlifted to the trauma center. I was wearing an Arai Quantum II for all three. I own an AGV Tourmaster and an Arai Corsair X now. No more racing, just street riding. I wear a Helite eTurtle too now.

[@mctourer5549]

I tried on a lot of helmets at my local dealer Bell, Shoie, etc, but the helmet that fit me the best was an HJC C 70. Really snug without being uncomfortable. And truth be told, I really like the drop down sun visor. Been thinking of moving up the chain though. May investigate in the 400.00 plus dollar range. Maybe the HJC RPHA 70 ST.

[@Howling-Mad-Murdock]

Arai mxv for me. Wore different helmets for years and just assumed was in between sizes or something where comfort was concerned, turns out I have an Arai shaped head. Love mine, it’s heavy but feels light - no more neck ache - and the quality of the paint job is fantastic.

[@yintaozen5353]

I Using KYT RC7 helmet for almost 5 year's, I think it's safe and also comfortable for an full face helmet that only cost you US$40, but if I had enough money to bought nice helmet, then KYT NX-RACE or Arai RX7X is my top priority 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼 Talk about cleaning the visor, I washed the visor by flushing it directly under running water through a water faucet and using a mild, low-sodium dish soap and there have never been any problems so far

[@loumencken9644]

It was interesting to see how much stiffer the Arai shell was compared to the GFX. But is that a good thing? About 20 or so years ago (or 30?), Motorcyclist magazine in the US ran a series of impact tests on helmets and found cheap helmets did better. It was because the shells of the expensive helmets were so stiff they transmitted more g-forces straight to the rider's head (and with head trauma, it's g-forces that injure and kill) whereas the cheap helmets had shells made of different materials that flexed on impact, which absorbed some of g-forces. The expensive helmets were made very stiff to meet the Snell standard that existed at the time (which the cheap helmets did not meet), and a few years later the Snell Foundation tacitly admitted they had induced manufacturers to make their helmets too stiff when they changed their standard. I'm sure a lot has changed since then in terms of testing and helmet technology (although the basics haven't changed much; most helmets are still hard shells around EPS padding), but still, one wonders. . .

[@bennettsbikesocial]

It's a good question. I'd simply say that ECE 22.06 has created a very good benchmark of testing, and it's in this that I'll trust my own head. Cheers, John

[@TheDiabeticBiker]

I've had 2 HJC visors crack now. Both identical. Had to retire it due to the lining being damaged so back on to my AGV K3SV. I find when cleaning visors you best to wash them in the shower. Steam softens all the bugs, hot water washes them off and always use your fingers to wipe it never a sponge.

[@jofus3604]

Back in the 70's when the helmet laws were first passed I was forced to buy a Bell helmet, quite a bit more expensive of course, by about 4 times! With a 7 3/4 head even the XXL in the cheaper helmets would not fit, Bell was the only manufacturer that built helmets in actual sizes, and of course I had to order it. When it finally arrived I opened it at the bike shop, right on top of the packaging inside was a small folded brochure with one line printed line on it: "You have just purchased the finest motorcycle helmet in the world, If you have ten dollar head, buy a ten dollar helmet" Nuff said..... Great video, good to point out what's inside......

[@Banditmanuk]

Going to be dusting those shelves off for a while! Used Arai for quite some time, great helmet but didn't enjoy fitting the visor and wanted a drop down sun visor. Moved to a Shoei Neotec, great touring helmet that I struggle to fault other than weight so very recently bought the latest Shoei GT Air. Just buy the best gear you can afford. Do think the drop down visor is the safest long term option as I've ridden with so many guys that have got caught out in either bad weather of at dusk with just the dark visor and still ridden. Do think Arai need to move and design at least 1 range to accept the internal drop down mechanism. Thanks for the in depth vid cheers.

[@larryward3876]

I am surprised when you were talking about visors you didn’t mention the transition visors that Bell provide this saves having flip down sun visors and also the need to carry a spare visor for nighttime use. Job done.i also notice that flip front helmets are not ACU approved witch to me is an indication of their lack of safety. I now wear the same BELL helmet that you have in your video with the MIPS system. I bought my first BELL STAR in 1969 when most riders were still wearing pudding basins what a massive leap forward in helmet design that was. And I have stayed with BELL ever since then..

[@wrczane]

I wear a locally manufactured helmet in South Africa. In general I'm happy with it. Pros:Chose the size based on their size chart and went to Lesotho and back without issues on that. Helmet has got a nice aerodynamic shape and helps break the wind when riding at any speed. Been wearing it everyday almost and virtually no signs of wear and tear on the inside. Cons: Wind noise is an issue though. You can't go above 90 km/h without earplugs (although I believe this is a common issue with modular helmets, except top of the BMW System 7 and Schubert C3 helmets). Ventilation. Don't know what the vents are for 'cause I don't feel difference whether opened or closed :( I don't know if it's a modular helmet issue, but when the helmet is flipped open, you can feel the cheek pads are not pressing firmly anymore (as if it is losing tension). When it's closed then it's fine, feels like any other helmet. www.spiritmotorcycles.co.za

[@gutshotgriz3936]

I think it was Bell that had an ad campaign in the 80’s that said “Got a $10 head, buy a $10 helmet”.

[@blakewalker94]

The only time I like seeing things destroyed (I despise it because of money being wasted) is when it's super educational like this!! Thank you so much for educating me and my ignorance!

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Thanks for watching! While they looked in good condition, these was a well out-of-date helmets! Cheers, John

[@herrmahlzahn6924]

After I read the reviews and test results on many motorcycle helmets I went with the G-MAX 54S. Not the most expensive helmet but it had very good test results with DOT and AAA. The price point in the US is about 130-160 USD. The wind noise is surprisingly low. And never forget, you never need a helmet for riding. You get a helmet to be prepared for an accident.If you riding a bike, sooner or later you will have an accident. Promise. Every motorcycle rider can tell you a story. So be prepared for your accident.

[@myaccount6905]

An Aria won’t fit. Like... really won’t fit overhere.... got 2 Shoei. Happy with them.. one got the photochromatic visor... kinda cool thing that is...

[@rocketrollsvlogs7625]

I've typically bought moderately priced but ECE certified helmets. However this was the first time I've seen a comparison with a budget certified helmet and I'm sold. Here in the USA, any helmet is better than no helmet, but I'll be buying an Arai and Shoei come this winter. Thanks for the sacrifice...

[@warrenhoare2852]

I used AGV for years. Switched recently to a Shoei NXR and hate it. Don't get me wrong the Shoei is better quality and is really quiet up to 30mph. After that it's pants without earplugs. So noisy is it, the dealer has contacted Shoei about taking it back. Basically, above 30mph on a naked it sounds like you have another bike chasing you. Much prefer AGV; they have normal wind noise and not a boom from the back. £400 well spent :D

[@KaneBoggis]

Agv k3 has been my lid of choice for a long time now I've had three.

[@paullacey2999]

My first helmet was a MYX from Halfords,£50.Bought it during covid when you werent meant to try helmets on....Needed it to get me through my licence training,I reasoned if I didnt get my licence I wouldnt lose out too much.I now have a AGV Birdie helmet,it seems a lot better!

[@worldonabike]

Spit and loo roll (or kitchen roll) to clean the bugs off the visor in the summer. Water to clean off wet weather spray that may be gritty from road grit. Kind of going off Arai - heavy and basic compared to modern high end helmets by other manufactures. Also using an RPHA 11 and a Shark Race R Pro Carbon - very light high end helmet.

[@jonny46ba]

i used to buy mid priced lids, until i got an Arai .. I would not get anthing else now. The fit, the build quality, the vents work really well, and the visor operation and fit is the best i've tried.

[@RustyGrapes]

I’ve always used Arai but why do they do pretty poorly In the SHARP tests, especially with side impacts? Does someone know why?

[@paulsven7923]

Great video - Arai is the duck's guts :)

[@jimwilson946]

I suggest that first you find a helmet that fits and is comfortable, then make sure that it is approved to all the relevant standards and then buy it. Make should really not come into it, as tests by consumer organisations like "Which" in the UK regularly show big name don't always give the best protection. It is also worth noting that Polycarbonate shell helmets are supposed to deform exactly as shown as its part of the cushioning to reduce impact effects.

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Join me when the premiere starts to chat about your motorcycle lids and what you think of the differences as they're cut open! John

[@Banditmanuk]

Didn't realise that the premier thing was set up for a live chat, would have tried to catch it. Have you and perhaps some of the Bennetts team thought about doing a KZbin live chat? Something like the Missenden Flyer does? See TMF was in a Bennetts fleece at the superbikes

[@coachk7674]

Fantastic information, I have been riding since 1980, always wore a Simpson Bandit. Been looking for a new helmet and the selection is so vast with the offshore and brands. Your video will help me make a decision. Thank you

[@rocketrollsvlogs7625]

I wish they compared the $650 helmets to $250 helmets instead of $50 helmets. How do Icon, Scorpion, HJC, or Sedici compare to Arai or Shoei????

[@brianmartindale2221]

Had Shoei's (they fit my head) in the way back. Thirty years later I am getting back into enduro/trail/travel and ended up getting a deal on a Klim Krios and thought I was fine (it is a great helmet) until I decided to get a dedicated MX/goggle setup. I got a deal on a Fly Carbon and, whoa, I felt ten times as safe. Not entirely sure why. Even though both setups weigh exactly the same, the Klim feels maybe not as solid and maybe lightly built to me, with the qualifying words "to me". Nitpicky, really, because helmets are sooo very much better these days and I feel fortunate to have both of these helmets

[@dennism1919]

It was fun watching you hack up those helmets! Informative as well. However, I do wish you would have used a more mid-level helmet to put up against the Arai; the piece of crap used is not a worthy contender. But I got the point you were trying to make. Personally I could never get into an Arai. They just don't fit my head no matter how I try to make them fit and for a street rider it's a bit of a joke how much they cost. That said, it's no big secret that we all want the best lid we can get, and everyone's threshold of what they can reasonably pay will vary wildly. My Avitar shows a great example of a helmet that fits me perfectly, looks fantastic, is very quiet yet vents well, has a SNELL rating and costs half of what that Arai costs. So it can be done. Sometimes, though, you have to spend a bit more to get what you need. I was in the market for a modular but the prices (and the quality) of what was out there varied to such a degree that I almost gave up. Then I got lucky one day, caught my dealer in a good mood and got a smokin deal on a Shoei Neotec II. I had been working on them for months and had walked away multiple times. I guess I finally drove them into submission! LOL! Just kidding. He really did me a solid. Was it more than I wanted to spend? Yes. But I did get a great deal and I got the helmet I really wanted. After all... how much is your head worth? Ride safe everyone. Cheers.

[@mancavemoto]

Great video thanks for making it. When I review helmets I often get people complaining about some of the prices, I was going to make a similar type of video looking at why some are more expensive than others, but now I can just send them here :) I’ve always found a Shoei size L fits me whatever style of helmet. I like Arai too, but the narrow opening can be a problem and I always tend to have misting issues (even with a pinlock) maybe because they are such a close fitting helmet?

[@twowheelsquirrel]

Caberg.. 60 quid 5* SHARP rated... Shuberth.. 400 quid 2* SHARP rated... I know which I'd buy!!!

[@MMilewski78]

HJC IS-MAX II and I love it!

[@jhooton75]

I wear the same helmet and like it a lot. I'd be curious to see him cut into and compare a mid grade helmet like the IS-Max II.

[@adamirish25]

I use an Arai RX-7 Corsair Edwards Valencia rep. It’s by far and away the best lid I’ve ever warn. Yeah it’s old now(10 years or so) but even now it’s still like new! I’ve tried others but nothing gets close to the fit and comfort of the Arai. I only do trackdays now but I’d still rather use my “old” Arai than some random £150 helmet. I truly believe you get what you pay for with helmets. I only use muc-off helmet and visor cleaner too.

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Cheers! That cleaner is on the list to test, thanks!

[@kevinreitan536]

in the US, I've had two Arai and two HJC helmets. the HJC do ok in a pinch, but nothing compares to the comfort of an Arai.

[@James777822]

Excellent video, very informative just about to get helmet; taking cbt in May ( last rode trials & motorcross in teens,now 58 yrs -must be midlife crisis- marathons, mistresses & motorbikes, tricked off the first two Was thinking Aria and Shoei a bit pricy for me ; having been looking at Shark spartan, hjc rpha or bell srt but now you've made reconsider

[@williamcoulter5462]

I used to have Arai Quantum but when I went for a new helmet I found they had changed the shell shape and the new Arai did not fit for the same size, I ended up with a Shoei GT air which did fit so like you said you must try on the helmet and not just hope a mail order item is going to fit even if it is the same make as makers continually develop their products.

[@ReferenceFidelityComponents]

Same here. Loved the Quantum lids until the shape change and price hike so went to a Shark Spartan as I couldn’t afford the shoei GT which I also liked. The Shark is as comfy and a bit roomier whilst offering decent lowish wind noise and quite light in the carbon composite model. Shoei GT is a great lid though.

[@dimosk7389]

i personally set a minimum price of 300 euros for my helmets. my personal understanding is that, anything above that price has good quality and safety. anything above that price, is basically added comfort, better linings and other amenities that dont add much to the safety, but can make a helmet better for longer trips ofc i always spend as much as i can afford.

[@leehopper1]

I love my custom-fit Bell Star Carbon. Pricey, but perfect!

[@iallso1]

HJC IS-MAX I also have a HJC IS17, but definitely prefer the modular for the day to day commute.

[@HilltopZombieShop]

Thank God that grinder didn't kick back and take your fingers

[@pascallocher8472]

The first time he had a grinder in hands😱

[@stevebevan5104]

And, ironically, he's comparing safety products lol

[@bennettsbikesocial]

@@stevebevan5104 You're all so caring.

[@bennettsbikesocial]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/b4XYiJuYjtdnd9U

[@markmall7142]

Was thinking the same thing ,using a grinder with one hand like that is rather stupid.

[@RogueBrit]

Arai and Shoei had to up the side protection because they were getting 3 star Sharp ratings on side impacts

[@Jim553just]

That's a new fear - spiders inside your helmet. Now I need an inner, bug free hat 😬

[@tom5216]

Shoes X1100 and Shark Race Pro Carbon. Both brilliant and both SHARP 5 star. Shoe has Pinlock Sharp has anti fog coating. Both work and love both helmets. Both expensive but I value my head.