Honestly, it was my patriotic pride that compelled me to make the purchase. On the other hand, I have a "primary" track helmet and this will serve as the backup (just in case). However, the helmet and vents were very functional. No thanks to this very humid Chicago Summer we're having.
After reading the review I thought about getting one of the hi-vis orange ones just to have around.
Helmets are one of those things that paying multiple times more doesn't necessarily get you much more in terms of features, and often nothing with respect to safety. You can pay $800 for a replica Shoei or Arai, but $400 of that is paint job, $300 is a bit nicer screen and cushier liner material, and only $100 is the actual helmet.
The high-end replicas definitely do look nice, but for many people the satisfaction comes from knowing they paid much more and therefore think it protects them better.
After reading the review I thought about getting one of the hi-vis orange ones just to have around.
Helmets are one of those things that paying multiple times more doesn't necessarily get you much more in terms of features, and often nothing with respect to safety. You can pay $800 for a replica Shoei or Arai, but $400 of that is paint job, $300 is a bit nicer screen and cushier liner material, and only $100 is the actual helmet.
The high-end replicas definitely do look nice, but for many people the satisfaction comes from knowing they paid much more and therefore think it protects them better.
On the higher end lids (Arai, Shoei, Suomy, etc.) you also pay extra for good ventilation. Doing a trackday in 85-100 degree temps and I'll pay almost anything for good ventilation. Also helps when it's raining or humid out to keep the inside from fogging up.
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Pinky
Past bikes: CBR600F2, CBR929RR, RC51, 748/853, SXV450
Current Bike: 2004 RC51
I have one of those. My honest opinion is that it doesn't come anywhere near the Arais I wear. Padding, ventilation, fit, build quality. But for the money, it's a good value. I think I got mine brand new with a tented visor for 90$.
__________________ Superbike Unlimited - Carbon Fiber, Race Glass and Ohlins Suspension Products 2011 R1 - Ohlins TTX MKII, Forks with Ohlins 30mm kit, Flashed ECU, Bazzaz ZFi-TC+AFM, 3/4 system with LBP Ti GP cans, 15/45 520 gearing, Lacomoto Carbon Fiber/Race Glass, Renthal Clip Ons, 8 Cell Battery, Spiegler Brake Lines, Vesrah RJL pads, Vortex Rearsets, 55w HID, etc, etc.
I currently use Shoei as my primary and have owned Arai, and AGV. I agree that the ventilation isn't top notch, but for the cost, it's got great value. Also, for track days, this will be loaded up and used as a spare or "just in case" moments.
I currently use Shoei as my primary and have owned Arai, and AGV. I agree that the ventilation isn't top notch, but for the cost, it's got great value. Also, for track days, this will be loaded up and used as a spare or "just in case" moments.