What is an ADV helmet: Arai XD 4 vs Shoei Hornet X2

[@zyonsdream]

I got hit the day before Thanksgiving. The guy put me down on the left side and then I high sided and flew around 40 feet from the bike. I broke my left arm twice, got a rod in my left tibia, broke my left fibula. Shattered my right heel and broke my right knee. When I landed my head came to rest on a sewer grate. I never lost consciousness and wasn’t treated for a concussion at the hospital. I was wearing an XD-4. The police, medics and insurance adjuster couldn’t believe I lived, let alone didn’t have head trauma. I already own 4 other Arai but after this, I’m Arai for life.

[@edokal]

Had the Hornet since it fit me better. Flew at least 3m in the air landed on my ribs smashed my head on the asphalt. Thing saved my life so I said Shoei for life. Guess they re both pretty great since they do the job in the real world huh? Good to know you are ok.

[@Chromatrix1]

I’m glad you guys are both ok. Man that’s a scary event to live through. I haven’t gone through a major crash like that (just stupid sh*t at low speeds) and I’ve been on team shoei. Now the helmet is getting tired so time for a replacement. Thanks for sharing your stories.

[@xlsyor]

Good to hear you guys are ok! Spread the word! I ride in a small city with seasonal traffic swings. Locals mostly know their way around but the hammerheads are arriving. Three near hits this past week, although full moon might be a cause. Have a SS, but saving for arai or shoei, as they have a great rep! Drive like you're invisible, fellas!

[@davidkirkland4364]

While not mentioned in the review, a major factor that can be a deal breaker one way or the other is how the helmet fits the shape of your head. Hot spots from a poor fit can turn any helmet into the equivalent of a water torture device. Try before you buy. Thank you Bret as always.

[@matthewabbott7221]

Probably the most important factor when choosing a helmet, David. Very surprised Bret didn’t mention this!!

[@stopstalkingyouspookybastard]

@@matthewabbott7221 he is reviewing helmets, not teaching how to choose a helmet.

[@jonas699]

For him probably both fits ok. Most likely if one fits you the other will as well. For me definitely wont work, so far I found for myself only AGV makes helmets which fits well enough.

[@DmitriyAdv]

100% agree. My head fits into an Arai great, Shoei not so much.

[@xsr_dirt]

Totally agree. As someone who went in to buy the Arai, it simply didn't fit. XL was too floppy and L wouldn't even squeeze past my ears. Tried the Hornet on and BOOM. Perfect fit. It's my favourite helmet to date whether I'm dirt riding, adventure riding, or just commuting to work.

[@brucehumphrey7446]

Hi Bret, Bruce Humphrey here from South Africa. I have been doing Adventure touring in Africa since 1969 - before they thought of the term Adventure touring. Nine BMW's, four KTM's and a dozen Yamahas (plus lots of other bikes) I still enjoy adventure touring on my current Yamaha XT660R after 56 years of riding. As to helmets, I have owned three Arai helmets and three Shoei helmets and the answer is really simple. The peak on the Shoei is too short and with all of them the foam lining started rotting within four years. The Arai's are more comfortable and way better designed and after over 12 years of constant use the linings are still perfect. I wouldn't get another Shoei helmet if you paid me. Cheers Bruce

[@greg4318]

Bought the Hornet after trying both - simple choice, the Hornet fitted my head shape and was incredibly comfortable from day 1. The Arai gave me a headache after wearing it for 15 minutes in the shop.

[@vladdehtyar7535]

What head shape you have ?

[@bjrnchrstn]

​@@vladdehtyar7535Shoei shaped.

[@corneferreira7691]

new Ad4 comes with a pin lock in the box and it works fairly well with the fog up issue so that issue has been sorted

[@CPUspeed]

I ride mostly street and have the Shoei X2. What I love about it is that you can get a transitions shield for it that automatically dims or goes clear depending on the environment.

[@sunhead-x]

Unfortunately, they discountinued the photochromic shield 2 years ago

[@demiratmotovlog]

I ride on road with a 1150rt with scorpion exo 510air, no offroad with my bike, but 5:15 is the signature of Bret Tkacs which I love to see every time...

[@k_plax]

I had the XD4 for about 18 months on a 790 AdvR. I recently went to a Shoei on a DR650. i.e. both dual sport bikes with minimal or no windscreen and ridden on and off road. For me the Shoei wins comfortably. While the XD4 may be lighter, that wind resistance caused by the solid peak, optics as mentioned by Bret especially when dusty, and wind noise are all more fatiguing compared to the Shoei. I was so surprised at how quiet the Shoei was 100km/h compared to the XD4. Then when you factor in Shoei's better peak screws, slightly bigger opening (for goggles), ALL removable pads for sizing or cleaning, and waaay better pinlock system, it is easily the better helmet for me and worth the extra $150 here in AUS. Have a Shoei transitions visor on order too, so keen to try that.

[@danfishlock8306]

I've had both helmets over the years. The Arai is my preference due to the much better air flow and head shape match, but I'm currently using the Shoei. I had an off road crash in Lesotho in 2020 and the Shoei served me very well (it was destroyed but I was fine).

[@MrFabianEt]

The XD4 got an build in airdam :) Also you can use a coin to get the screws out and adjust the shield! Pretty neat I think :) Also my XD4 came with a built in Pinlock Visor with a Pinlock Screen

[@rmack255]

Coins…what are they again?

[@hkeg80]

I absolutely love my XD4 as well, but I do definitely hate the adjustments, so many other manufacturers just have much better systems for switching visors, I like switching between a tinted and non tinted one but I've stopped doing that just because the fastening system sucks so bad.

[@MrFabianEt]

@@hkeg80 Yeah but I don‘t mind that. I ride with an lightly tinted visor all year round :)

[@mojoridin]

Mine has a pinlock too, and change between smoked or clear visors on my longer trips. Never had an issue changing, because it usually gives me time to take a shorter rest while doing it. Love my XD!

[@markosrides]

XD-4 is sold as Tour-X4 in Europe and it comes stock with Pinlock which works fine as long as you set it up properly. Haven't tried Shoei but Arai in comparison with other adv helmets is above and beyond. The lining is adjustable with 5mm foam that can be removed or added, and there is also photochromatic shield which, I'm told, works very well. Also has a nifty feature where you can wear goggles even when your shield is still on the helmet. It's also perfect for long oval, squashed head shape which unfortunately I have. Personally, I'm in a lot of trouble now, after I bought Arai, don't know how I'm ever going to go to another brand... It's expensive, yes, but there is nothing like it out there. Love the channel Bret, cheers!

[@christalbott1852]

I’m on my 3rd XD, absolutely love them. I bought my first one at a motorcycle show, Arai USA had a booth next to the vendor I bought from. I was able to have the Arai rep recommend the correct size and set it up by changing out the top liner and cheek pads to get a perfect fit at no extra cost. Arai makes different thicknesses of these parts to custom fit a helmet to your head. Now that I know exactly how to set a new one up I’ll always get the XD when it’s time to renew my helmet.

[@drumsnbass]

I wear an XD-4, and only an XD-4. Fits my head like a custom made unit. Nothing else has ever come close and I’ve tried them all.

[@81722Les]

me2

[@nicholaskubilius9260]

These helmets are so much money.. let's not forget about the Bell MX9 helmet, ECE rated with MIPS technology, tons of vents, and so many color options. Weighs in between both these contenders, with extremely affordable replacement parts for when liners pack out. And the customer service! I've owned many bell helmets and when visors get scratched, or liners packed out they ship me new ones, no questions asked, no receipts needed.

[@BretTkacs]

I am going to do some more budget gear in the future

[@AJMacDonaldJr]

I'm very happy with the Bell MX9 Adventure helmet I bought last year. I also bought the photochromic face shield to go with it.

[@dirtbikesicehockey4788]

Arai helmets have always seemed to fit my head perfectly.

[@kee7678]

Not mentioned and as I found out through many hours of testing... The Arai is shaped more for ROUNDER heads, and the Shoei is shaped more for OVAL heads. Me, I had to get the Shoei as the Arai made me feel like my head was being squished front to back, while the shoei has more contact on the sides as it's more OVAL shaped. The expert at Cycle Gear gave me that great info and it proved to be 100% accurate.

[@christheuerkauf2235]

I bought the xd4 a few months ago. Very impressed with the helmet overall. Lightweight. Great venting. My xd4 actually came with a pinlock visor, so no issue with fogging up. I'm in Australia. The need for a tool to move the beak is a little inconvenient. The beak is noticeably noisy but I ride with plugs in so not a big deal. Great work Bret!

[@ScrambleNorth]

Would like to see what you think of the Klim Krios. Another awesome video.

[@KTMK73]

I tried on all three. Shoei felt like a vice. I went with Krios. Koroyd, pin lock, transition faceshield to name a few of the advantages. Let alone pound lighter than the xd4. Big omission not to include that as these are the main ADV helmets.

[@kBIT01]

I found the krios to be uncomfortable for someone with a oval or intermediate oval head. You pretty much need to be a Lego man for it to be comfortable.

[@KTMK73]

@@kBIT01 The problem is, the Krios only has two shell sizes. I'm a oval/intermediate and found it the most comfortable out of the three. The XD4, I'm a small and there was pressure point on my forehead, the Shoei (having an RF1200 small) in the Hornet, I'm a medium and it felt like concrete. The Krios, I'm a XS and it is Goldilocks. Hopefully it doesn't break in too much.

[@2fastnlight]

The larger eyeport of ADV helmets is a nice feature whether goggles are used or not. That bigger window is just nice. Also the scorpion AT950 modular is a great ADV choice with that feature.

[@512mbflashdrive]

check out the nolan n70-2x

[@cardesavas]

My 5 cents on a Scorpion AT950….I’m on a second AT950, both of them have rattle @higher speed inside my left side visor assembly, or maybe both sides, hard to tell…. Spoke to customer service, they told me to tightened visor screw, I did, nothing changed. I learned to leave with that rattle. BTW, Scorpion customer service is great and very helpful, they replaced helmet when sun shade mechanisms broke! I drive KTM 1190 adv R, with tall windshield; I think that AT 950 catches a lot of wind. Helmet is “loud”, I meant, it allows a lot of noise to come to your ears. I realized, I barely ever use that modular system, probably next helmet would be without modularity. Now good things about AT950….it has good cut out for speakers, original visir is great, could lift up just a little bit more in fully opened position. It fogs in a rain, but you can buy pin-lock visir separately. It has integrated sun shield in a helmet. It have enough space that you can instal camera mount on a side of a chin, on left side I have Sena Intercome. Venting is moderate. I almost forgot, you CAN NOT beat the price of that helmet with all those features, and I think that AT950 is cool looking helmet, especially for a Adventure riding!

[@2fastnlight]

@@cardesavas the forehead vent is likely the vabration source when closed. Scorpion will send you a new one to pop in if you contact them.

[@JCintheBCC]

5:15 - The helmet-to-hat transitions are truly amazing sometimes! I had to rewind because I genuinely thought you were wearing the cap under the helmet for a second.

[@BretTkacs]

😄

[@rmack255]

I too rewound that a couple of times to check the magic involved, and when my wife heard my exclamation asked me to send it to her. It reminds me of the famous Chinese face changing magicians. Instant change.

[@davidbaldwin9830]

Considering getting an ADV Bike for moderate rides and camping. Been researching gear. This was most helpful... I had no idea what the bill was for, as an example of my ignorance.

[@TheRizzix]

Interesting that you didn't get a pinlock with the Arai? The XD-4 I bought last year came with mount points already fitted and a pinlock insert in the box. Maybe it's a region or generation thing? I'm Australia based

[@horspiste]

Every XD4 I've seen here (UK) comes with a Pinlock

[@heinzhubbert1512]

Love your videos . This one again very professional without any unnecessary side talk . Straight to the point and honest. You helped me making up my mind to purchase the right helmet for me

[@crocodil96]

I bought a XD-4 a year ago, and it actually came with a pinlock visor, and pinlock in the box.

[@RoadtoNowhere73]

Had the hornet for 2 years now, its excellent.

[@spuddoright1970]

Last summer I did a 900 mile day w/ a new XD-4 that I hadn't worn enough to break in. The helmet was great and not fatiguing at all. I had to come through southern Utah and Nevada in 115+ heat and the ventilation was great. Multiple times I stood up at 80 MPH and never felt like the Arai was going to pull my head off. I thought I was going to go w/ the Hornet as my other helmet is a high end Shoei, but the Arai just fit my head much better.

[@grhmnz4648]

The XD 4 does have a chin curtain . You pull it down when the helmet is on .

[@simonboland]

I'm a fairly new rider with 4-5 years experience and I ride a GS 750. I recently bought the Arai XD4. It does seem to catch a fair bit of wind but maybe I'm still getting used to it though. I don't notice noise that much. Two things I found different to the video (1) The place I bought it from installed the pinlock inside the visor for no extra charge. It hasn't fogged up once. The airflow is really good. (2) You don't special tools to take the visor off. A coin (20 cent Australian piece) 2.5 cm or 1 inch can do it.

[@paulsmyth497]

At last Brett. A video from you that doesn’t immediately make me feel inferior with regards to my riding skills (or even, truck loading skills 🤓🤣🤣). Superb review mate thank you. Still not fully decided which adventure lid is for me, but this has helped as always. Ride safe Brother 👍

[@UnkaJwimbee]

Good review. I've also found the XD-4 to fog easily. I finally fixed it by adding the Arai breath box and a pinlock shield. They are pricing but you can get them. I found that the compound bend of the XD-4 shield is harder to seal to the helmet and to the pinlock. Had to return one helmet because the shield leaked. Water ran down the inside of the pinlock shield and collected in the pinlock void. Instant blindness...

[@BretTkacs]

Me too (fogging issue)

[@LetsrideJ]

there is a pin lock for the arai xd, i got it on mine i think from cycle gear, you lose the brow vents (that style is forever backorder it seems) but i used my pinlock for the colder months where that little loss of air flow isnt a concern

[@doka1747]

Not sure about overseas, but here in Aus the xd4 come standard with a pin lock shield and a pinlock. It still has the brow vents.

[@thomaslandenberger7982]

Here in Italy, pinlock came standard and still had vents.

[@mancavemoto]

Same here in the UK

[@AUTOT3KHCL]

Do a video for how you switch your hat and helmet so quick haha. I run an X2 and definitely notice a sore neck for the first couple weeks in the spring

[@damiank2568]

Both these helmets are made in Japan to a high quality standard. Almost all other helmets are from China. (Schuberth Germany, Nolan Brazil, HJC Korea/Vietnam, Shark Thailand, Next Portugal. Yes - Fox, Bell, Alpine Star, Troy Lee are made in China) The Shoei has several outer shell sizes so you get a better fit than helmets with one shell size. I don't know if the Arai has different shell sizes.

[@CapsicumSpec]

arai does have different shell sizes as well. i think for the xd-4 it's only two different shells, whereas the street helmets have 4+ different shells

[@scottenlow5249]

Arai has 5 shells in all models

[@mojosdad68]

I’ve owned 3 XD4s each time hoping to love it as it fits my head so well. But as Brett mentioned, the distorted optics and fogging issue in cool weather makes it a no-go for me. I went back to the street Corsair X, though I think I’ll give the Hornet a try. I’m on a multistrada which sees fire roads at best so It sounds like the Hornet will be fine. I do like having a peak for those sunny days on an upright bike.

[@onemilemore541]

Great review but I'd also like to comment on fit due to head shape. I have a "long oval" head (long front to back w/narrow width). The Shoei fits my head better. Thanks for your work, Brett!

[@adventuremulemoto]

Bret, great, comprehensive review and I pretty much agree with you on all points. I own both but my XD4 is my go to helmet, it simply fits my head better. The bottom line is when I do a rest stop I can't wait to get the Shoei off my head, while the Arai stays put. For reference I am a 20-24K miles a year rider and get a new helmet every 4-5 years.

[@jkagsl4129]

Adventure Mule, can you tell me which position is closed and which is opened on the XD4 vents located on the top of the helmet toward the back. there's 3 positions but I don't know if inside, middle, or towards the outsides are open or closed. All other vent controls are easy to see opened vs closed. Thanks in advance!

[@adventuremulemoto]

@@jkagsl4129 Center is closed, middle is half open, outside is full open.

[@dandersonjr]

I have the Arai and the only complaint I have is on a windy day a good gust can really snap your head around. Never tried the Shoei on the street but it's the most comfortable dirt bike helmet I ever wore although it's not the ADV version.

[@SlickMotoMike]

I get the same also when it rains it leaks through and then gets between the fog insert

[@Canada151337]

Had a Hornet x2 for about 5 years now. Still my favourite helmet, has fit like a glove since day one, quiet, quality, looks absolutely ace. Only downsides are the weight and ventilation. Doing any dual sporting in warm weather is where this helmet sort of falls down, looking down planning your line up a hill... you feel it on your neck for a few days, and you sweat like a pig! I bought a bell adventure for hot weather dual sporting. The hornet is better at everything else though.

[@GeertTheys]

Have Touratechs adventuro carbon helmet only 1300 grams. Nexx has similar helmets and bit cheaper then Touratechs. I ride in Thailand so I removed the screen outside rainseason and even during rain season only close it while raining. Has pinlock system, can close all vents or put open vents on it. All parts you can re order and change. changed screens, pinlocks, even inside fabrics. This keeps the helmet going for long time.... Was considering the MX9 as next helmet but not sure yet....

[@enduromotorradtouren]

Thanks for your concise comparison, Bret, of these 50-50 dual helmets. Is using a MX helmet with goggles so much worse on travels? Günter from Nürnberg/Germany

[@janra8653]

And that's how you review helmets 👏 👏 👏 Well done.

[@spiceweasel945]

Both are great but the biggest difference is the interior shell shape. Arai is more oval (suits me) while Shoei is more round. That will be the biggest decider for anyone. Then, Brett’s comments come into play. Worth noting that you can get pin lock visors for the Arai and also the GoPro Mount isn’t a big deal because personally I don’t like sticking things permanently to a helmet that expensive so use a clamp anyway which is helmet brand neutral.

[@murraehaynes3182]

You read my mind…been looking at both of these recently 👍 I wear a Shoei Neotec on the street..

[@BretTkacs]

I wore my Neotec through Nepal

[@optimusprime1975]

I used Arai -XD4 for 10 years and decided to switch to Shoei Hornet. I recently had a crash with a Shoei and I can say it served me excellently. I then decided to go back to Arai. Wow did I realize all the positives of the Shoei over Arai. Better sound isolation ect ect. The biggest issue I have with the Arai is that the visor does not open up completely like the Shoei. Its actually a huge irritation if you are used to a visor opening up all the way. Also the Shoei dealt with my Packtalk Bold JBL speaker much better. I had to do some serious changes to make the Arai fit me and not have pressure point on my ears. One will only notice these game changer difference using these helmets back to back.

[@charleydog2669]

I have an xd 4 and wear it all thru the warmer months. I have a dirtbike helmet i wear when mainly off roading since even thought the air flow is great nothing beats a dirtbike helmet for air flow.the lightness and fit are very good for me. i have the slightly tinted shield and with the adjustable peak its excellent and have even ridden in the dark with it with only a slight loss of vision. its great shortcoming is it fogs unmercifally when the temperature approaches 50 f. i have purchased a pinlock shield and pin lock that i haven't installed yet that may help. I have avg sportmodular that is my winter go to helmet, it came with a pinlock that works excellently. I did get the arai in high vis for safety and that thing really is bright, there's been no fading over the 3 years i have ridden it. its so bright in the sun it almost looks like it has an internal light. Besides the headlight and taillight the helmet is the most visible part of a motorcycle and with that helmet i am very visible. some more agressive drivers will still pull out in front of me, but its more because they calculate that i will take all steps possible to avoid injuries than they didn't see me. I can see it in their beady little eyes 😠!

[@rtwt7487]

Thank you so much for this. I've got an XD4 and a Tenere 700. I've been having nothing but problems with buffeting and noise. I'm getting closer to solving it but I reckon the helmet will make a big difference. I was looking at the Shoei and now I reckon I'll give it a try.

[@Kruik013]

I've got the Arai tour x4 and Tenere700 aswell but I have no buffeting, when I'll wear my streethelmet I'm getting dizzy really fast because of the buffeting.

[@blkmagic4]

i have an xd4 and t7, I'm 6'3 and had crazy amounts of buffeting. I switched to the short windscreen by powerbronze and it made all the difference. not sure why the short one works so well but it was night and day in terms of noise.

[@blkmagic4]

not to mention a $100 windscreen is a hell of a lot cheaper than a new helmet

[@rtwt7487]

@@blkmagic4 I’ve got the same windscreen (and several others) and it was just yesterday that I found the culprit (for me anyway): the bark buster hand guard plastic component. I took off the plastic part leaving just the frame and it’s now a pleasure to ride. Only took me a year and over $1,000 in parts to find out it was the first part I added to the bike and the cheapest option 😂

[@BingoDingo8394]

I’ve got a ktm adventure and the Arai and the buffeting at high speed is terrible. I’ve tried moving the windshield up and down and also tried riding without the helmet peak. Nothing has helped. But I’m going to try a taller screen because if I drop my head down just a couple of inches it’s really quiet.

[@muppdog390]

Just quick one on the Arai regarding the need for a coin, or screw driver, to replace the shield and visor. I came off off roading at some speed and found myself in a ditch. The initial impact was face first the visor taking the first blow. The retaining strews are designed to shear off in such a situation which they did preventing the helmet from twisting my head around. All the vent covers will come off as well for the same reason. As it was a soft impact I will use the helmet again off road. All the bits are available from your dealer to be replaced. Not sure if the Shoei does the same but I rather undo a couple of screws. No issue with wind and visor on T700.

[@scootersurfermusiclover1941]

My very happy vote goes for the Hornet X2. The visor is totally unaffected by wind. If I ever lost my helmet I would buy another one in a heartbeat.

[@MotoPavilion]

I would say both helmets are good, just go and try them on but you have to stay with the helmet on for couple hours. I have XD4 and Shoei Neotec 2. They are different style but the point here is that every time after 3-4 hours ride , shoei hurts my left ear. You just have to find YOUR helmet.

[@kenbrooks7794]

I only watched to see the slick hat change! ;-)

[@northidrecluse2306]

One of a kind, sets himself apart 😊

[@aurorajones8481]

2:54 Assuming the Arai fits your head! Ive tried them both and find the Shoei to have a better fit for me personally. The Arai's padding applies pressure point forces all around my head, and ironically because it is so light as you say to me it feels cheap and flimsy. BUT after your vid I'm gonna re try because I do need a new lid. You make excellent points.

[@khakimzhanmiras]

I dig the retro look of the Arai. Still think it’s the best adventure bike/mx helmet on the market.

[@domijust4816]

My Arai came with the pinlock screen and the antifog thing included.

[@thekerr8728]

How’s the wind vibration with the visors? My agv ax9 is horrendous. Also, excellent video. Thanks Bret

[@rodintoulouse3054]

Once again I found myself watching a full review of something i am not really interested in, just because of the quality of the the information and your impeccable delivery 😀. Bring on the 100k subscribers!

[@MotoSera]

Great review/comparison Bret. I have an XD-4 (Tour X4 in the UK) and it has a Pinlock visor as standard which I have a react to light one in. Perhaps those aren't available in the US?

[@advtravelbug6100]

I agree that the Shoei helmet is great for Adventure Riders that ride mainly pavement and occasionally go off-road. It’s very quiet and I found the ventilation to be sufficient in hot weather (wearing Goggles, visor open). Great review 👍

[@GS_riderHR51]

Hi, Bret: Have u experience of wearing Klim Krios Pro with BMW 120 GS and noticed buffeting / noise, like u said ARAI on GS cause more buffeting than Shoei. Waiting for answer, thanks!

[@jimnyffeler5287]

Bret, good review. My first ADV helmet was an original Arai XD4. But when I replaced it I switched to a Klim Krios. It's four ounces lighter than the XD, flows air well, the peak is vented and you don't need tools to replace the shield. Oh and it's made of carbon fiber. Cons, it's only DOT/ECE rated. I've become suspect of Snell's rating system. When I replace it I'm going with the Klim Krios Pro with the Koroyd energy absorbing system. It is lighter and flows more are that my current Krios.

[@larifari4371]

Is the XD4 quieter than theKlim Krios?

[@marchyman6621]

Which is better also may depend upon the shape of your head. The Arai fits me better. The Shoei will give me a headache if I wear it for more than a couple of hours. Also, quite often when I put the Shoei on it dragged one of my earplugs out of my ear. For me buying the Shoei was an expensive mistake.

[@BretTkacs]

I am always perplexed when I get a "what is the best... "question without the application and other necessary details

[@alexmorgan3435]

The most important consideration is that they fit properly and are comfortable.

[@motonico79]

@Brad - I've also have an Arai, and it came with pinlock in the box. It's bit odd if your's didn't. U.S. - Euro difference perhaps?

[@BingoDingo8394]

Both of my Arai XD4 came with the pin lock system as standard. It works ok but still can fog up in cold weather.

[@rmack255]

Great work again Brett. As noted, head shape makes a difference, and I found Arai helmets didn’t fit my round oval shape. I was comparing modular helmets but also tried some arai. One aspect only briefly mentioned was visor view size. I tried the Shoei Neotech 2 and expected to buy it (very comfortable) but on test ride I found the visor was so narrow I couldn’t see the Nav6 or bottom of my phone nav screen. So I was constantly dipping my head; intolerable on a long ride IMO. So my question: how does the Shoei Hornet visor height compare, both to the Neotech 2 on other helmets? In the end I got the Schuberth C4 pro Carbon, but I’m still thinking about getting a helmet with improved air flow for the hard work parts and very hot areas I’ve ridden in (Onslow was 50 degrees Celsius this week, that’s 122 degrees F!). I have an 850GS with the Givi Airflow screen, and there is no buffeting but not a large amount of air getting past the screen to my head.

[@andrewvanstaden8922]

Just weighed my SHOEI Hornet X2 ADV = 1556g. I bought this helmet 3 days ago

[@barrymatherly]

I have a pin lock on my XD 4, should have come with it though.

[@stephanpetranker8994]

Nicely done with a clear analysis that I can act upon.

[@purificator1004]

In Europe, the ECE rated Shoei hornet weight is 1560g in size Large....so weight is not a problem here...

[@CW4PWR]

I'm in the market for a new helmet but was looking at the Schuberth E1 and I hear that Klim is coming out with a new Krios in February 2022. Any chances you can do a review on those?

[@MchalesNavy]

The XD4 was on my list, but ended up going with the Airoh Commander instead. Cheaper, pin lock visor, lighter than the XD4 and includes a flip down sun visor which is really handy when riding into the sun. Main downside is that to mount my cardo packtalk slim I need to double sided tape the battery section to the back, none of the mounts work with it otherwise. Something the XD4 does have going for it though is cheek pads you can remove whilst wearing the helmet. Means you can take the helmet off a downed rider without putting any strain on their neck. Actually had to do this for a mate recently after he ran into a mob of goats and took a free trip to Disneyland.

[@steveaustin1820]

Any thoughts on the new GS Carbon Trophy helmet...had some interesting fastner ideas.

[@loloblanc04]

Shoudn't these helmets been renewed because of the EC 22.06 norm this year? Hopefully some improvements will happen?

[@gaxkiller]

Strange what you said about the XD 4 pinlock, I got a 120 pinlock preinstalled on my XD 4 when I bought it from the delearship.

[@cloudjumper8868]

I tried both and Schuberth E1. I took Schuberth because it fitted best and I felt most comfortable considering airflow and loudness. Retractable chin is a feature there too I didn´t mind to have.

[@rmack255]

How did you find the airflow on the E1, in comparison? I’ve had a C3 pro and now a C4 Pro Carbon. Sometimes I’d like better airflow.

[@cloudjumper8868]

@@rmack255 I am not able to compare the three helmets in depth. I tried them all on bike but only for limited time. I took Schuberth because after... let´s say half an hour on the bike with every helmet... it felt best on my head (and I liked colours, integral sunshield, etc. the most). After buying it and riding about 6000km in weather from cold (about 3 degrees Celsius) to hot (up to 35 degrees of Celsius), sun, rain, mud, tarmac, slow and fast riding, up to several hours per day, I have to say I have absolutely no problem with Schuberth E1. One problem occured though. Well, problem, I can understand why it is happening and I can´t compare this to other helmets, because I don´t have them and it didn´t occur on neither of the three when I tested them. When riding slow, especially on the beginning of the ride when helmet is warm with head inside and there is colder climate outside, water condensates on the lower part of visor (I am talking about like 5mm of the bottom edge). I guess difference of temperatures and breathing causes this. But the moment I start moving in some pace, usually the time I leave the town, all circulates inside well and condensate disappears. Quick solution is to open visor just a little (I guess I have vents in kinda closed position mostly, amybe opening them more would help). I have to say it never came on my mind, that the helmet is not ventilating enough, I am sweating or I need more vents. Actually I do close the helmet a lot when it gets colder, because wind is everywhere when vents are opened. Even when others raise their chins when riding slow (town, collumn) I do not, because I dont overheat in it. Maybe the different perception is all about head shape :-) Maybe the helmet size coresponding to the head size? My first helmet was very tight and I was sweating all the time while others refered it was venting fine.

[@MarceloBuainain]

Would be nice and complete review if the KLIM helmet was compared too.

[@dakster4729]

I love your work, but the AGV AX-9 easily bests these two.

[@jasonchaney5382]

For me, the Arai was the only choice. Because it was the only helmet I tried that fit my stupid head.

[@SimonBrisbane]

Or… your beautifully Arai-compliant noggen!

[@carloscarvalho1961]

The Shoei cames pinlock ready and with one in the box, witch is a must!

[@ron5184]

Thanks for explaining the difference in street and ADV. Makes a lot more sense now to get and ADV helmet, as I have been using my street helmet. This ADV thing is getting to be an expense hobby LOL!! Glad I'm here though it is a lot more fun than the big bagger I had.

[@AZ_Baggin]

Have you worn either one when riding your KTm 790 adventure R? Which one had less buffeting? I have the Aria XD4 and ride the KTM 890 adventure R and buffeting is terrible. Look forward to your comments.

[@BretTkacs]

The Shoei is far better at controlling buffeting and did well on the 790 (sheild in low position, I am 6')

[@Dundertaker1]

Shoei feels great..but the weight was the issue for me, went with Arai.

[@motohonduras6095]

Shoei it is! Thanks Bret

[@rimbenty]

I have an XD4 but can’t get used to the vision distortion from the pointy visor. The interior foam doesn’t dry very well either, had to replace the cheek pads due to mold smell in the foam. Tried my buddies Scorpion EXO-AT950, picked one of those up and haven’t used the XD4 since. As far as ventilation on the trail I always wear safety glasses and open the visor so the extra vents on the XD4 never really came into play. I will say my favorite helmet is a Shoei GT-AIR but just for street use.

[@thechance123]

Have you tried a suomy MX tourer? If so how did you like it, and do they run small? thanks

[@ad78]

The XD-4 has built in chin curtain that you can pull. The anti fog visor of arai works well too.

[@Dr.Twisty]

Do you have a link for the Arai XD-4 chin GoPro mount? Thanks.

[@BretTkacs]

It's in the notes...

[@rusticthumper5500]

I tried all different brands of adv helmets. The guy at the shop said I have a Shoei head so no matter what you think is the best......I wear Shoei

[@Rolandmotocom]

Good as always... The 'tool' needed is a quarter / coin...or any key

[@johnmartin7144]

Bret, A new Arai XD4 just arrived at the house. The XD4 used in your comparison seems to be a little outdated.

[@FrancescoRossiPhotography]

Thank you so much for the weights in grams! Very much appreciated!!!

[@SwissAdventureRider]

Have you tried the Scorpion AD-X1? Love it.

[@FluxExplorer]

Arai XD4 for my noggin. The Shoei is very nice and I tried one but the peak isn’t long enough nor low enough to be of any real use in my experience. May as well just buy a 100% street helmet. I keep waiting for Arai to release an XD5 but I guess it never is coming lol. I just ordered a new XD4 as mine from 2015 is wore out. Can’t argue Arai reliability. They make an outstanding product.

[@tommeyer6033]

The peak on the Arai is also moveable up and down which I find very helpful in situations as varied as when a traffic light is higher than usual, to when the sun is right on the horizon. Not sure if the Shoei peak is fixed or also mashable.

[@BretTkacs]

The X2 is fixed

[@tommeyer6033]

in my sleep (really) I remembered another favorite aspect of the XD-4…. The black matte underside of the peak of my solid white model. It really reduces glare as from bright sun on sand or any bright surface like a concrete road. Replacing the peak after cleaning is awkward and not quick, but almost any coin or a washer will do the trick.

[@nickthequick]

I don't ride trails, but I used the XD 4 (called Tour X-4 in Europe) for many years for sport touring. I took off the beak as it was noisy at speeds and enjoyed the air flow - the brow vents are excellent in the heat - the wide field of vision and all that space in front of my chin. It's true that the very angular visor distorts but not to a degree that it bothered me. I now ride with the Arai Quantic (I have a video with comments on it on my channel)

[@SonofHendrik]

The Shoei Hornet ADV weights official 1560 grams in medium size!

[@SimonBrisbane]

This is literally a no-brainer. Whichever fits you better. They are both awesome, well designed helmets. Go with the comfort!

[@shaunwiegert]

One thing to note about the Shoei X2 is that it is a tough stretch to get past my ears. Once on, it works great. I have noticed a point on my left ear that bothers me after a few hours in it. Problem is made worse with a com unit installed. Also, the Cardo pack talk bold does not fit well in the factory cutouts. Now it rubs on my ears and makes the helmet that much more painful to put on.

[@Joe-fi4hv]

Slightly related question: When you do wear goggles, what brand do you use? Like me, you have a higher nose bridge and I wonder if you've found a solution. Every pair I try is pushed up by my nose and sits with the bottom foam just below my eyes. If I force them down I can't breath as my nose is pinched off.

[@mattdelcomyn8012]

IMHO - Shoei fits oval heads really well, Arai fits round heads better! I can only use SHOEIs for that reason!

[@robertsonfamilyfarm9126]

Xd4 for the win , over 10,000 miles in a month and 500,000 feet elevation gain , it’s just the most comfortable I have tried but , it does have a foggy problem that I deal with by keeping it clean and adding a good anti fog cleaner