[charleym3]

I was trying on helmets yesterday. I tried the HJC CS-12 and CL-14 current production in my size. Then I tried on a discontinued Shoei. The fit was much different and the contour more closely fit the shape of my head.

So the question is two part. Is the Shoei a superior helmet or are you paying for the name? The price is $200. Can I do better? It's plain white and I think that it's the RF-1000 model. The back vents look a little different. Probably last year's model.

 

[Gixxerdale]

I was trying on helmets yesterday. I tried the HJC CS-12 and CL-14 current production in my size. Then I tried on a discontinued Shoei. The fit was much different and the contour more closely fit the shape of my head.

So the question is two part. Is the Shoei a superior helmet or are you paying for the name? The price is $200. Can I do better? It's plain white and I think that it's the RF-1000 model. The back vents look a little different. Probably last year's model.

I've owned both over the years. I like the Shoei much better. It's light, fit, noise reduction, and ventilation are much better with the RF 1000. It's my current helmet of choice. I don't think they discontunued the RF 1000 though? They do cost more, like an Arai does, but it's a small investment spread over say the 5 years you would be using it. What's your melon worth and do you want to protect it with the best you can afford or save a few bucks for something else? Check an Arai for fit too. Depends on the shape of your head and face as to what manufacturer is a better fit for you.

 

[charleym3]

I'm a firm believer in buying the best I can aford when it's time to buy. Especially where safety equipment is concerned. I think that this particular model got redesigned. The vents look different than the current production photos.
The comfort alone is with the price difference to me. Just wondering if there is a real difference in protection or is it just the name?

 

[Gixxerdale]

They both have to meet the same standards, but the quality is much better from Shoei than HJC. I've used them both but trust Shoei for my melon, much more than I do HJC. So that's what I ride with. If the Arai fit me better I'd use them too. Never had a problem with a Shoei. Had visor issues with a couple HJC buckets. Thing would fly open at freeway speed when you turned your head. Pretty annoying to have to keep closing it! The Shoei locks closed!

Bottom line get a Shoei, my 2 cents.

 

[zleviticus]

Along the smae line (don;t want to start a new thread for this) but is there a certain time frame that you should replace your helmet?

I have a HJC cl-14 and I like it...

 

[charleym3]

Hey !!! I know the answer to this one. 5 years from date of manufacture. I got that from track racing requirements.

 

[Uncle Bob]

http://www.suzuki-bikes.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=1572

 

[charleym3]

Okay, the Shoei turns out to be a RF-800. It appears to have been made in May of 1999. It is new. Never worn. And very comfortable. I got it for $180 OTD.

 

[GSX-R2Blue]

i'm wearing an icon right now, i needed something quick, it's comfortable, and was cheap $160..
i'm in the market for a new Suomy though, this one actually..

~J

 

[TL chris]

How much does that Suomy go for? Does Arai or any other maker offer free X-ray of dropped helmets. I know that some offer it for a fee.

 

[GSX-R2Blue]

$499.95
http://www.motorhelmets.com/htm1/helmets-suomy-table-spec-1r.htm
~J