Favorite Helmet?

[tshort]

My highside landed me on my back/head, both of which took a hard hit.  I was amazed at how uninjured I was, given the apparent heft of the impact.  In any case, I called Arai to find out why I couldn't find my RX7-4RR and they explained the models had changed.  But here was the kicker - they also said that I could send my helmet in for a free inspection, and if they determined it was still good, they'd let me know and only charge me for return shipping.  Surprised me - I thought one hit and they're done, but apparently not the case.

Unfortunately, I got the call back yesterday, and was told my bucket is history ( can't say I'm surprised).  So before I spend another $500-600 on a new one, thought I'd see what everyone else liked.  I'm still an Arai fan, but I don't know a lot about HJC or FM, for instance.

[K3 Chris Onwiler]

Suomy.  Light, comfortable and safe.  Saved my life!

[h8mondays]

tshort,

I'm in the same boat as you as far as needing a new lid due to a highside.  I've worn Arai for a long time and that's what I voted on.  I like the weight of the Suomy, but for me, they aren't as comfortable as my RX7.  An alternative that I've been seriously looking at is made by OGK and their FF3-GP model which has an almost identical fit to an Arai RX7 and the weight savings of the Suomy.  Check them out at http://www.helmetharbor.com

[EX#996]

After Paul's Bell helmet (from his drag racing days) got damaged, I did a lot of research on helmets and we decided on HJC.  HJC is the Korean version of Shoei (same molds different maufacturers).

HJC is still Snell approved and the construction is top rate, but at a fraction of the cost over an Arai or Shoei.  I liked his so much, I bought one for myself.

Dawn   :)

[racer865]

HJC helmets are good I have several dirt helmets I race in and have had good luck with however after seeing a clip on 60 minutes of south koreans burning american flags and spitting on american troops stationed there to protect them from N korea the other night I have decided not to buy any more HJC helmets

[Woofentino Pugrossi]

What about us that have two different brands? ;D I have an Arai for the street (until my Suomy shows up) and a AGV X-vent for racing. Normally I buy a new race helmet every 2 yrs and then the old one becomes my street one if its not damaged. But since Arai had their little temper tantrum about online purchases, I am NOT gonna pay $200 more for one than I could online. I wish I kept all teh emails I got from the Arai clown when we had a little email *discussion*. They were rather amusing. He had no answer when I asked who was going to certify every parts counter salesman on how to fit a helmet.

[tshort]

He had no answer when I asked who was going to certify every parts counter salesman on how to fit a helmet.

Well yeah - good point.  When I went to a local Arai dealer to try on helmets and ask questions, I found he didn't know very much regarding which pads are removable, what sizes are the "stock" sizes for a given helmet size, and what other sizes are available.  I had my first one (the now damaged one) fitted by the Arai race support crew in Daytona a year ago, and they were awesome.  For as much money as they charge for the things, one would think they would have a stronger, more informed dealer network (especially now that they're clamping down on the discounters).

[KBOlsen]

Last helmet was an Arai... highsided beautifully but was able to replace it with the Shoei equivalent for half the price.  Fits almost as nicely as the Arai, but a tad "shorter" measuring front-to-back (if I stick out my tongue, I could allllmost touch the chin bar).

Will try the Suomy next.  I REALLY liked the way it fit when I tried it on, and the ventilation looks a lot more promising than either the Arai or Shoei.

[r6_philly]

I have always used Arai's. But this season I started using a Bieffe (max biaggi) because thats the only helmet that matches team colors that I can find at the time. It was half the price of an arai and it was quite comfortable. Head and shoulder above the cheaper Bieffes. I was quite impressed.

I continue to use my Arai. In rain or overcast conditions cuz I love the amber tearoff shield I have... its the bomb

[tug296]

I always used Arai's, finally damaged in a crash, tried on every brand, best fit and feel for my noggin was HJC AC10. Highsided my first one, damaged beyond the point, but saved my head I believe, even though I had a severe concussion, brokeen Collar Bone ect. Bought another HJC AC12. Still the best fit, feel, visability. Like the quick change shields and ventilation. Also like the price. The big thing for me was comfort.
 I would recomend HJC to anyone.

 AA Yates wore his Saturday.

   H.M.  #296 am  U.S.A.

[Team_Nuclear]

Arai, Arai, and only Arai...

Corsair or RX7RR4 only...

Have saved both mine and my riders lives...

[dave333]

I have owned 4 Arai's and won't buy another.  Their shutdown of mailorder sales sold me on Suomy, Bieffe or Shoei.  I do really fit the "long oval" of the Signet series, but I'm hopin' I can find something shaped for my noggin...  Anyone know who else makes a "long oval" shaped helmet?