Spec1R VS Gunwind

[EM JAY]

 What is the difference between the two?  Haven't had a chance to try em on yet but have heard great about Suomy and want to give them a try.  (Plus have a chance for support)   ;D

[WebCrush]

Gunwind is their older model.

Spec1r their newer one.

Both are very good helmets.  The Spec1R has some additional cooling vents, as well as a different shell shape, plus removable/replacable cheek pads to customize.

I've been using Suomy Gunwind's for 3 years, and will have a new one this year as well, I plan to try on some Spec1Rs to see how they fit my head.

There is also the new 'xtreme' features of the newer Spec1r's which have a newer method for shield removal, etc.

[K3 Chris Onwiler]

The Spec1R is a newer model.  The Gunwind was top of the line until the Spec1R came out.  There is an about-to-be-released model above the Spec1R, but I don't remember what it is called.
The only helmet of the three that I have personal experience with is the Spec1R.  I will list the pros and cons.
Pros:
This helmet is unbelievably light.  The ventilatiion system is superb on hot days.  Batch testing means that they randomly select and destructively test helmets from every batch made.  If one fails, the whole batch is rejected.  The British standard that Suomy Helmets are made to is the toughest in the world.  Except for custom paint, Suomy's paid pro racers are using the same off-the-shelf units that any consumer can buy.  I can personally attest to the crashworthyness of Spec1R helmets.  I stoppied over the top in a first-lap melee, and was driven into the ground head first by my bike.  No problem!  About the only things I didn't hurt were my head and neck.  You wouldn't believe that such a light helmet could protect so well.
Cons:  They are far too pretty.  I personally love the Bostrom replica best of all, but every model I've seen was a thing of beauty.  If you race, you will eventually be smashing your helmet into the ground, and if that helmet is a Suomy, it will break your heart.  The face shield is very difficult to change until you get used to it.  I had a Suomy rep tell me that they did it that way because quick-release shields release quickly in crashes, thus leaving your face unprotected.  Makes sense to me!

Bottom line?  The only safer place for your head than a Suomy is up there in the grandstand.

[EM JAY]

 Cool, thanks guys.   ;)

[bmfgsxr]

ive got the spec1r, and its a great lid. ive had a few different helmet brands and this is on par with the quality of arai easily, if not better imo.