I lean towards Shoei because they fit me better and I like the looks. I also have a Arai and they are both excellent helmets and worth the cost. Brain damage is VERY expensive.
Hahahaha! You are right in regards to BRAIN damage! I always say the most important thing you buy for yourself at a motorcycle shop is your helmet. Hey in regards to fitment ... honestly it whatever works best for you! I get it with the more aggressive look of the Shoei Helmets. In addition, the Shoei helmets are quieter ... but only a little bit more.
@@davidvanbrunt4233 Shoei? They have one. Arai? They will never. The protection they require isn’t possible with a modular design. That question has been asked of them and that’s the answer.
The Quantum and Signet are more expensive than the Regent because they have a fully removable and adjustable interior (including neck roll and chinstrap cover), pull down chin spoiler, extended chin curtain, adjustable rear exhaust, new style intake vents, and the Pinlock is included.
Oh wow! Thank you Scott for your input!!! It's an honor to have someone who works for Arai give more detailed info. I would love to get more hands on experience from you guys since I have to learn and know basically all brands!
Yikes ... yeah it may have not been clear that in my title "DOT AND SNELL" approved. Meaning ... not all Arai helmets are both certified with DOT and SNELL. Thank you for the clarification.
Interesting you mention that ... I got my hands on one and will be doing an "First Look" at the XD5 in the next few weeks. And yes ... ARAI .... IS LIKE A PILLOW!
Excellent video Richard - most informative - and entertaining. Having worn Arai, Bell, HJC, Shark and several other makes over the past 50 years and two weeks (since I got my motorcycle license), including open faced helmets in the early 70's (probably before your parents were born (🤣)), two years ago I upgraded from my 2012 Arai Vector (shiny black) to an HJC (pure white). Unfortunately I found the HJC soooo noisy I immediately had some moulded ear plugs made but, as these are SUCH a hassle to insert and remove every time I put the helmet on and take it off, a few weeks ago I gave in and returned to my now 11 year old Arai Vector - which, as you assert, is super comfy - but also so much quieter - plus I much prefer its D ring to the HJC's gate lock (my choice of term) which sticks in your throat. I suspect the HJC may be so noisy due to the space which accommodates the sun visor - which I really value. So! I'm considering either an Arai Quantic (the name here in 🦘) that you featured or a Shoei Neotec (flip). I like the simplicity and lack of moving parts of the Arai and, of course, am sold on its comfort and quietness. However, as you well know, Arai's don't incorporate sun visors. I've never had a flip helmet (which DO incorporate sun visors), however numerous blokes in my motorcycle club wear them and swear by them. For me comfort and quietness are more important than ventilation and I do like simplicity, but I also value a sun visor which means you don't have to stop and pop on a pair of sunglasses. It's an interesting dilemma. However, your video added some more points I hadn't thought about which have given me more food for thought. So thank you. 🦘
Macalacalan .... THANK YOU or the amazing comment!!!! So have you considered the ARAI PRO SHADE SYSTEM? Arai has opted to no incorporate a internal visor for the specific reason that they would have to remove some EPS foam. Which means at least here in the states it would not be SNELL approved. With the PRO SHADE SYSTEM you have an external sun visor which you flip up when not in use and then flip down when i use. Yes if you are riding on more open roads in a tuck position it acts as a mini sale if the sunvisor is up, but this might be an answer for you. Here is a link: www.araiamericas.com/node/277 Let me know if this helps or if you have any other questions!
Where I am in Costa Rica, we have two types of helmets. One sells for $12, the other for $25. I own both types. As long as no accident they seem pretty good. But I don't feel confident for much protection at those prices. Both have clear as well as tinted shields and air circulation. Neither have D rings which I always had will my Bell Star helmets.
I say a helmet is better than no helmet, but I agree that if possible get your hands on a DOT helmet. It's interesting I just had a customer today buy a helmet from Costa Rica because of the very limited choices. The next time you take a vacation or have friends or family in the states (or anywhere DOT, ECE helmets are sold) have them pick one up for you. Thanks for the comment!
@@caferacernewyorkcity All my friends and family in the US are deceased so having them get one is out. And 2 years ago was going to go to Lima Peru through Miami but informed I needed a Government issued photo ID with a US Mailing Address to enter the US. So US is the one country where my US Passport doesn't allow me entry. Might look for one next time I travel to Europe., like for Oktoperfest in Munich later this year. I ride e-bikes and mopeds so the motorcycle helmets here should be sufficient.
Hey mate - great review. Arai seems to brand the helmets differently in the US - I can take a solid guess as to branding for the rest of the world eg "Regent X = Profile V" and "Countour X= Quantic". Reason I am asking is that stock of Profile-V (which is a perfect fit for me) is tough and I was looking for something similar but the step up seems to be a different shape...?
Hey PB .... So I just reached out to my contacts in Arai USA and the Regent X = Profile V ... both are INTERMEDIATE OVAL. Yes they are different homologations for the shell, but it appears that the headliners and cheekpads are the same all over. Meaning that if you want are more custom/comfortable fit, change out the cheekpads and/or headliners accordingly! Let me know if this helps and if you are ever in NYC come give me a visit!
@@caferacernewyorkcity Thanks heaps for following up. If I am in NYC I will come pay you a visit. I went to buy a new Countour/Quantic. I am a definite Medium in the Regent/Profile. The Countour Medium was too large and the small fitted but was too tight in chin. Weird. Will go play with the various pads.
I always had Arai, and my brother always went for Shoei, because Shoei was - historically anyway - a better fit for rounder heads. I'm just now thinking about replacing my current Arai, because it's a bit old and battered-looking. It's an Astro/j, ECE22-05, with an ACU Gold sticker which means I could take it on the track - if it got past scruntineering (which it wouldn't - the date stamp on the strap is 12/01...). Although I'm very fond of Arai, it's looking like I may be going with another manufacturer this time. I want a flip helmet with a drop-down internal sun visor, and Arai - for good and sufficient reasons of their own - do neither of those features.
@@caferacernewyorkcity hi, yeah, it's on the list. Also looking at stuff like the various Caberg offerings. I like the style of the LS2 Valiant, but I'm not sure about build quality. So many helmets...
Any word if there will be a replacement for the Defiant X catering to those looking for that retro-ish looking helmet? I was looking at Concept XE but since I’m here in the US, can’t get it here without ordering overseas. Which lead me to the Defiant X. Found a local shop but wondering if it’s worth to pay full price for a model that is discontinued. I’m in the market since my Shoei is pretty old now and wanted something “retro-ish” and wanted to try Arai. The price point is making me wonder if it’s worth it for a discontinued model.
@@beeezyfresh The Arai CONCEPT-X is coming to the United States VERY soon. Ducati is already in the process of sending the Ducati branded Concept-X to the US soon. And .... I have a strong feeling it will be here by next year. But in terms of your Defiant-X I love that helmet also. As long as it is new in the box the 5 year guarantee is based once purchased. I do have to say that the airflow adjustment is a little annoying for the mouth. You have to reach inside the helmet to open and close them. If it is retro you really want, I say wait for the Concept-X. It is like a more updated Bell Bullit. Also the price difference may not be that much between the two ... unless you get a killer deal on the Defiant-X.
@@caferacernewyorkcity thank you for the reply! This is great news as I do l prefer the look of the Concept X. May just try to look for a Defiant X on sale to hold me over till the Concept X finally releases here in the US (hopefully!)
I would agree, ECE 22.06 is considered one of the best rating systems, but ARAI has started making helmets to those standards. For example the QUANTIC is ECE 22.06, but is not available in USA as of now.
@@caferacernewyorkcity Arai’s in-house standard has always exceeded DOT(not hard) and Snell. When ECE really stepped up their game, Arai was already up to snuff. They didn’t change anything major when ECE released 22.05 let alone 22.06, or when the FIM homologation came into play. The only changes Arai does to there helmets between markets is that the head shapes of the Asian market is suited to their shapes. Everyone else gets the same head shapes globally, and all are built to the same standard.
@AT2Productions According to a video I watched, Arai uses a proprietary glass fiber strand that aborbs/distributes impact forces better, but at 6x the raw material cost. That's probably why they're so ahead of the regulations game.
@@ayowser01 That is certainly a factor, and I’m guessing it stems from their design ethos. I’ve been in their helmets for years, and don’t see a reason to change that any time soon.
I’ve been trying to get an Arai helmet. Went to my local cyclegear and tried the regent x and the XL is lovely. I want to go for the defiant X like yours, does it fit the same as the regent X?
So I own both the Defiant and the Defiant-X and have tried on and rode with the Regent-X. It felt the same to me, but every head is different. Both are by Arai's standards intermediate oval. Keep in mind every head is unique and that the best way to see how it fits is to wear it. I will say I have literally fitted and sold hundreds of helmets working in motorcycle stores and I feel very confident to say they are very similar.
I have a long oval,shape. My freedom classic do i have to modify in front and sqeeuzz the foam and ventilation section to fit this Cauliflower👳🏽👳🏽👳🏽👳🏽👳🏽
Hmmm ... great question. Is your "Freedom Classic" the Classic V? Sorry names are different from country to country. It is the open face one correct? If you are long oval ... squeezing the foam helps a bit, but it is not the ideal fix. Unfortunately, the Classic V only comes in intermediate oval.
Technically if you are in the U.S. it needs to have a DOT sticker on the back. Although ECE is high in terms of approval ratings in regards to safety you are required to have a DOT/ECE helmet to ride legally.
So nowadays most new Quantum series helmets are round oval. The Quantum if is a design from the mid 80's. Since then Arai has continued to refine its designs. I say it is best to try on an intermediate oval (which most arai's are) if that does not work, go to the Quantum-X (round oval). To have a better idea of how to fit a helmet check out my Fit Tips video. I use an Arai as an example. ruclips.net/video/je33CUo9-jQ/видео.html If you have any more questions let me know! Thanks for the support btw :)
I lean towards Shoei because they fit me better and I like the looks. I also have a Arai and they are both excellent helmets and worth the cost. Brain damage is VERY expensive.
Hahahaha! You are right in regards to BRAIN damage! I always say the most important thing you buy for yourself at a motorcycle shop is your helmet. Hey in regards to fitment ... honestly it whatever works best for you! I get it with the more aggressive look of the Shoei Helmets. In addition, the Shoei helmets are quieter ... but only a little bit more.
Shoei are a bit on the heavy side but I can't go past the drop down sun visor, ratchet strap and quality.
Wish they would develop a modular....
@@davidvanbrunt4233 Shoei? They have one. Arai? They will never. The protection they require isn’t possible with a modular design. That question has been asked of them and that’s the answer.
@@freebehindbars8654 like to see Arai in the modular market, I don't hold my breath...
The Quantum and Signet are more expensive than the Regent because they have a fully removable and adjustable interior (including neck roll and chinstrap cover), pull down chin spoiler, extended chin curtain, adjustable rear exhaust, new style intake vents, and the Pinlock is included.
Oh wow! Thank you Scott for your input!!! It's an honor to have someone who works for Arai give more detailed info. I would love to get more hands on experience from you guys since I have to learn and know basically all brands!
@@caferacernewyorkcity Contact our office to schedule a Zoom call or in person visit to your store.
Hey man, really great video!! Loved all the info.
Been riding in XD 4 for a long time and recently picked up Concept X.
All Arai helmets sold in the North American market are DOT and Snell.
Yikes ... yeah it may have not been clear that in my title "DOT AND SNELL" approved. Meaning ... not all Arai helmets are both certified with DOT and SNELL. Thank you for the clarification.
There is a new adventure Arai coming any day and i cannot wait. I just bought the Quantum X and holy smokes is it comfy
Interesting you mention that ... I got my hands on one and will be doing an "First Look" at the XD5 in the next few weeks. And yes ... ARAI .... IS LIKE A PILLOW!
Excellent video Richard - most informative - and entertaining. Having worn Arai, Bell, HJC, Shark and several other makes over the past 50 years and two weeks (since I got my motorcycle license), including open faced helmets in the early 70's (probably before your parents were born (🤣)), two years ago I upgraded from my 2012 Arai Vector (shiny black) to an HJC (pure white). Unfortunately I found the HJC soooo noisy I immediately had some moulded ear plugs made but, as these are SUCH a hassle to insert and remove every time I put the helmet on and take it off, a few weeks ago I gave in and returned to my now 11 year old Arai Vector - which, as you assert, is super comfy - but also so much quieter - plus I much prefer its D ring to the HJC's gate lock (my choice of term) which sticks in your throat. I suspect the HJC may be so noisy due to the space which accommodates the sun visor - which I really value.
So! I'm considering either an Arai Quantic (the name here in 🦘) that you featured or a Shoei Neotec (flip). I like the simplicity and lack of moving parts of the Arai and, of course, am sold on its comfort and quietness. However, as you well know, Arai's don't incorporate sun visors. I've never had a flip helmet (which DO incorporate sun visors), however numerous blokes in my motorcycle club wear them and swear by them.
For me comfort and quietness are more important than ventilation and I do like simplicity, but I also value a sun visor which means you don't have to stop and pop on a pair of sunglasses. It's an interesting dilemma. However, your video added some more points I hadn't thought about which have given me more food for thought.
So thank you. 🦘
Macalacalan .... THANK YOU or the amazing comment!!!! So have you considered the ARAI PRO SHADE SYSTEM? Arai has opted to no incorporate a internal visor for the specific reason that they would have to remove some EPS foam. Which means at least here in the states it would not be SNELL approved. With the PRO SHADE SYSTEM you have an external sun visor which you flip up when not in use and then flip down when i use. Yes if you are riding on more open roads in a tuck position it acts as a mini sale if the sunvisor is up, but this might be an answer for you. Here is a link: www.araiamericas.com/node/277
Let me know if this helps or if you have any other questions!
The arai quantum x that you let me tried on was perfect and comfy
Soooos! Mayraming Salamat! I think the round oval is best for you.
Mel great job, love it 👏👏👏
Danke!
I stick with Arai Corsairs for my street helmets.
Yeah they are great for track or the streets. Nice choice of you! I like them much better than the AGV PISTA for use for both street/track.
Where I am in Costa Rica, we have two types of helmets. One sells for $12, the other for $25. I own both types. As long as no accident they seem pretty good. But I don't feel confident for much protection at those prices. Both have clear as well as tinted shields and air circulation. Neither have D rings which I always had will my Bell Star helmets.
I say a helmet is better than no helmet, but I agree that if possible get your hands on a DOT helmet. It's interesting I just had a customer today buy a helmet from Costa Rica because of the very limited choices. The next time you take a vacation or have friends or family in the states (or anywhere DOT, ECE helmets are sold) have them pick one up for you. Thanks for the comment!
@@caferacernewyorkcity All my friends and family in the US are deceased so having them get one is out. And 2 years ago was going to go to Lima Peru through Miami but informed I needed a Government issued photo ID with a US Mailing Address to enter the US. So US is the one country where my US Passport doesn't allow me entry. Might look for one next time I travel to Europe., like for Oktoperfest in Munich later this year. I ride e-bikes and mopeds so the motorcycle helmets here should be sufficient.
Hey mate - great review. Arai seems to brand the helmets differently in the US - I can take a solid guess as to branding for the rest of the world eg "Regent X = Profile V" and "Countour X= Quantic".
Reason I am asking is that stock of Profile-V (which is a perfect fit for me) is tough and I was looking for something similar but the step up seems to be a different shape...?
Hey PB .... So I just reached out to my contacts in Arai USA and the Regent X = Profile V ... both are INTERMEDIATE OVAL. Yes they are different homologations for the shell, but it appears that the headliners and cheekpads are the same all over. Meaning that if you want are more custom/comfortable fit, change out the cheekpads and/or headliners accordingly! Let me know if this helps and if you are ever in NYC come give me a visit!
@@caferacernewyorkcity Thanks heaps for following up. If I am in NYC I will come pay you a visit.
I went to buy a new Countour/Quantic.
I am a definite Medium in the Regent/Profile. The Countour Medium was too large and the small fitted but was too tight in chin. Weird. Will go play with the various pads.
awesome video. thanks
You're welcome! Please let me know if you have any questions!
Great video!
Thanks!
Thank you! Best video explaining the differences!
Man...that means alot! Thank you! More to come!
I always had Arai, and my brother always went for Shoei, because Shoei was - historically anyway - a better fit for rounder heads. I'm just now thinking about replacing my current Arai, because it's a bit old and battered-looking. It's an Astro/j, ECE22-05, with an ACU Gold sticker which means I could take it on the track - if it got past scruntineering (which it wouldn't - the date stamp on the strap is 12/01...).
Although I'm very fond of Arai, it's looking like I may be going with another manufacturer this time. I want a flip helmet with a drop-down internal sun visor, and Arai - for good and sufficient reasons of their own - do neither of those features.
Hey Richard and THANK YOU for the comment! I take it you are considering a SHOEI NEOTEC 2?
@@caferacernewyorkcity hi, yeah, it's on the list. Also looking at stuff like the various Caberg offerings. I like the style of the LS2 Valiant, but I'm not sure about build quality. So many helmets...
Any word if there will be a replacement for the Defiant X catering to those looking for that retro-ish looking helmet? I was looking at Concept XE but since I’m here in the US, can’t get it here without ordering overseas. Which lead me to the Defiant X. Found a local shop but wondering if it’s worth to pay full price for a model that is discontinued. I’m in the market since my Shoei is pretty old now and wanted something “retro-ish” and wanted to try Arai. The price point is making me wonder if it’s worth it for a discontinued model.
@@beeezyfresh The Arai CONCEPT-X is coming to the United States VERY soon. Ducati is already in the process of sending the Ducati branded Concept-X to the US soon. And .... I have a strong feeling it will be here by next year. But in terms of your Defiant-X I love that helmet also. As long as it is new in the box the 5 year guarantee is based once purchased. I do have to say that the airflow adjustment is a little annoying for the mouth. You have to reach inside the helmet to open and close them. If it is retro you really want, I say wait for the Concept-X. It is like a more updated Bell Bullit. Also the price difference may not be that much between the two ... unless you get a killer deal on the Defiant-X.
@@caferacernewyorkcity thank you for the reply! This is great news as I do l prefer the look of the Concept X. May just try to look for a Defiant X on sale to hold me over till the Concept X finally releases here in the US (hopefully!)
Arai needs to really step up there safety features. DOT and Snell don’t cut it anymore especial at the price they’re charging.
I would agree, ECE 22.06 is considered one of the best rating systems, but ARAI has started making helmets to those standards. For example the QUANTIC is ECE 22.06, but is not available in USA as of now.
@@caferacernewyorkcity Arai’s in-house standard has always exceeded DOT(not hard) and Snell. When ECE really stepped up their game, Arai was already up to snuff. They didn’t change anything major when ECE released 22.05 let alone 22.06, or when the FIM homologation came into play. The only changes Arai does to there helmets between markets is that the head shapes of the Asian market is suited to their shapes. Everyone else gets the same head shapes globally, and all are built to the same standard.
@AT2Productions According to a video I watched, Arai uses a proprietary glass fiber strand that aborbs/distributes impact forces better, but at 6x the raw material cost. That's probably why they're so ahead of the regulations game.
@@ayowser01 That is certainly a factor, and I’m guessing it stems from their design ethos. I’ve been in their helmets for years, and don’t see a reason to change that any time soon.
I’ve been trying to get an Arai helmet. Went to my local cyclegear and tried the regent x and the XL is lovely. I want to go for the defiant X like yours, does it fit the same as the regent X?
The Regent X and Contour X have have a fit that is unique to them.
So I own both the Defiant and the Defiant-X and have tried on and rode with the Regent-X. It felt the same to me, but every head is different. Both are by Arai's standards intermediate oval. Keep in mind every head is unique and that the best way to see how it fits is to wear it. I will say I have literally fitted and sold hundreds of helmets working in motorcycle stores and I feel very confident to say they are very similar.
I have a long oval,shape. My freedom classic do i have to modify in front and sqeeuzz the foam and ventilation section to fit this Cauliflower👳🏽👳🏽👳🏽👳🏽👳🏽
Hmmm ... great question. Is your "Freedom Classic" the Classic V? Sorry names are different from country to country. It is the open face one correct? If you are long oval ... squeezing the foam helps a bit, but it is not the ideal fix. Unfortunately, the Classic V only comes in intermediate oval.
Can I use an Arai helmet from Europe that is only ECE?
Technically if you are in the U.S. it needs to have a DOT sticker on the back. Although ECE is high in terms of approval ratings in regards to safety you are required to have a DOT/ECE helmet to ride legally.
hi.. i have qv pro of arai and is painted, is worth it, i will for ever buy arai helmet
They are top of the line for a reason! Sounds like you have an round oval headshape! What color way did you get sir?
I'm in New York city like every day. Anyway you could measure me personally I have a lil peanut head and I can't find a good helmet.
OF COURSE!!!! email me at the following to let me know when you plan to come in! caferacernewyorkcity@gmail.com
no concept ex?
So far it is not available in the United States, but as soon as I get my hands on one I will do a review.
@@caferacernewyorkcity oh wow, also called Neo Rapide in Japan 😀
At 5:00 “3/25” = three-quarter?
Ufff ..... YOU ARE RIGHT!!!! I blame the late night editing. Thanks for the heads up. Thanks for watching and I will be more careful.
@@caferacernewyorkcity Hahaha!! I looked at that number then started to question my grade school math. 🤣
LMAO 'i'm an intermediate oval' then shows us a big round head.
You're not intermediate oval my friend you are a round head shape.
Hahaha! I wish I was! Yeah, my bald head is fairly round!!! I think for Halloween I will paint my head to look like an Arai Helmet!
If you can’t afford a good helmet then you shouldn’t drive motorcycles. Save your head with good stuff. 🎉
I second, third, fourth ... eternity that sir!
I like you have an older Arai helmet., It's a Quantum F and is the best fitting helmet I've ever used. How will the Quantum X differ in fit?
So nowadays most new Quantum series helmets are round oval. The Quantum if is a design from the mid 80's. Since then Arai has continued to refine its designs. I say it is best to try on an intermediate oval (which most arai's are) if that does not work, go to the Quantum-X (round oval). To have a better idea of how to fit a helmet check out my Fit Tips video. I use an Arai as an example.
ruclips.net/video/je33CUo9-jQ/видео.html
If you have any more questions let me know! Thanks for the support btw :)
Crown to facial proportions are much more relaxed in a QX vs. the Qf. You might go down one size just based on the pressure you feel on your face.