The time has come to fork out for a new lid as I like to change them every 5 years or so. Most recently I've had an Arai Chaser and before that a Shoei X1000. I've just tried on a Chaser V and it looks like the have changed the shape as it's a funny fit for me now. The Shoei X2 was better for but best of all was the Arai RX7. It's significantly more expensive than the others but as a better fit it's probably the best option. If you've had an RX 7 in the past, what was it like? Any problems and how did you get on with it? Just feeling the need to ask a few options before I bung it on a credit card!
I have this one and Dave has the same lid. I like mine, but there again I have an Arai shaped head. :smile: Ps. We bought them from Helmet City at a bloody good price (£400 as opposed to £700 at the time)
RX7's are good lids (had one Years ago), I agree that they are a different shape to Chasers (I believe less chunkier shell). I actually use a Chaser (not a chaser V) for day to day riding and my X-Spirit 2 for weekends. I have to say that I think the X-Spirit 2 is a long way ahead in several areas: -Fit (For me it's absolutely perfect, although I note you say you prefer the RX7, Arai's seem to come in a little more under the chin) -Visor Mechanism, is just miles ahead, whether you have or haven't ever had a side pod break, it just needs to happen once to wreck your day! Unless you keep spares..... -Peripheral vision, is fantastic in the Shoei. -Aerodynamics, I have genuinely never had a more stable lid in the wind than the Shoei, it's a massive step on from my Arai and the RX-7 I used to have years ago. Ultimately a good lid is one that FITS, if you are comprimised on fit with the Shoei then go Arai, however worth noting that both can be completely customised. I have in the past fitted biger cheek pads in my XR1000 to create a nicer fit and reduce any potential 'lift'. Hope this is of some help. Both are great lids for sure.
Thanks for your thoughts. Ultimately its always going to come down to which fits best but its nice to get a feel for what they're like to live with. I've never had an issue with the visor change on the Chaser (there you go......I've said it, bound to nadger a side pod now) and the little niggles I had with it (average vents and wind up by the chin) seem to be addressed by the RX's extra bits. Just got to break the good news to Mrs T now
I'm on my 3rd RX7, I like them. They fit me perfectly and are comfortable, well built, well vented and offer top protection. Downsides are; noisy and expensive but I always wear earplugs anyway so noise isn't a problem and (so far) I've always managed to get mine on a deal, however I notice that the recent version is significantly more expensive than previous models - don't know why?
Yeah, noise wise I wear ear plugs so can't say there is a huge difference. I notice my vent on my chaser makes but lip and teeth cold! Doesn't seem too on the x-spirit! But otherwise good times. The rx7 has a pull down chin curtain doesn't it? I always try and wear something around my neck as it does help the wind noise under the sides and protects the neck slightly
Yeah the chin skirt thing is a good idea. I tend to wear a neck tube when it's a bit chilly so I'll be interested to see how effective it is.
I'm on my 4th rx7 ,it has to be said that they are the creme de la creme of helmets,here's my current one.
I've had an RX7 for years and I think it's very average and way overpriced. I had a Haga Quantum before which was miles better. It was a lot quieter and less draughty. It is now time to change but I am skint. Sad to say I will not be getting another RX 7 when I do splash out. TBH I generally wear my even older Shark Foggy Rep. It's a lot warmer, quieter and less draughty. The Arai consequently only gets used on really warm summer days. I really can't see how Arai justify their ridiculous pricing vs the competition. I may go back to Shoeis which I had in the 90s which were very good.
Worth noting that the rx7 is an out and out race helmet, designed to shift the most amount of air possible per min, it will therefore be noisy! Quite a few wear earplugs but helmets that have lots of air passages will always be relatively noisy
Sound like it's not so good off the racetrack then. My thoughts entirely. Haven't they reissued the Quantum though?
Id go with Lids Direct or Sportsbike shop before going back to Helmet City. Failing that, go to your local dealer and try before you buy :smile:
Just a extra bit of info, I purchased a new RX last year and got a cracking deal as it was the last one in a particular colour, size etc nearly 50% off. Just to reiterate the above I am on my 4th, just does everything it says on the tin for me. It was from a approved Arai dealers and when speaking to them they stated that Arai UK does not take to kindly to stores putting discounted lids on eBay ! So its worth paying a visit to a local approved dealers and you may even get a better deal than the net.
