I'm looking for a new helmet. I now have a Arai Quantum, and like the RX-7.
Is it worth the money? As it's twice the money of most other helmets?
Is it worth the money? As it's twice the money of most other helmets?
RX-7 GP
47 posts · Started by Supaduke · 01 Mar 2012
Post 2 by Stupid Luke,
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Post 3 by SDNerd,
#3Is the RX-7 still manufactured (in Europe/Asia maybe)?
The RX-7 was (is?) really intended as a race helmet. Good ventilation, but noisy. As in LOUD. Without hearing protection, it'll make you deeeeef.
Its contemporary, the Corsair V, flows air even better, and is slightly quieter. Still LOUD however. I really like the added ventilation and wider viewport over the RX-7's.
Bounced my head pretty good in a Corsair V last year - glad I was wearing it. But I only wear the Corsair Vs on the track. Too damn loud for the street w/o protection. I use an RX-Q for everyday riding; its less expensive, much quieter, and certainly worthy of track use.
With Arai, its about protection and fit. They fit me well, and can be tailored to some degree with different pad thicknesses Arai offers. They offer other helmets in different head shape options (Vector-2, Signet-Q). It's worthwhile IMO to go to an authorized vendor, and with the assistance of someone who is supposed to be knowledgeable in fitting Arais, try them on before buying anything.
Brand-bitch or not, "value" in helmets is somewhat subjective.
The RX-7 was (is?) really intended as a race helmet. Good ventilation, but noisy. As in LOUD. Without hearing protection, it'll make you deeeeef.
Its contemporary, the Corsair V, flows air even better, and is slightly quieter. Still LOUD however. I really like the added ventilation and wider viewport over the RX-7's.
Bounced my head pretty good in a Corsair V last year - glad I was wearing it. But I only wear the Corsair Vs on the track. Too damn loud for the street w/o protection. I use an RX-Q for everyday riding; its less expensive, much quieter, and certainly worthy of track use.
With Arai, its about protection and fit. They fit me well, and can be tailored to some degree with different pad thicknesses Arai offers. They offer other helmets in different head shape options (Vector-2, Signet-Q). It's worthwhile IMO to go to an authorized vendor, and with the assistance of someone who is supposed to be knowledgeable in fitting Arais, try them on before buying anything.
Brand-bitch or not, "value" in helmets is somewhat subjective.
Post 4 by Mr_Trecolareco,
#4I'm a shark whore, I like the rx-7 but it doesn't justifies the excessive price.
Noisy, plastic parts that break easily etc....
Noisy, plastic parts that break easily etc....
Post 5 by Supaduke,
#5What is the difference between the Corsair and the GP by the way? The GP is abouth 100€ more expensive.
Post 6 by Bert,
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Post 7 by tripoddave,
#7The truth is the RX series are race helmets. Some would say (me included) that they are the best race / trackday lids money can buy.
But, and its a big but, they don't make good road lids.
They are noisy due the the amount of venting and in heavy rain they leak! Arai technicians swear the RX's don't leak but I've had 3 and they all let water in through the top vents in the rain if you are at the wrong angle or something.
Bottom line: if all you do is ride on the track, buy one.
If you really really want one and only ride in good weather - why not?
If you ride all year round or spend a significant amount of time in the saddle on the road - don't: the Quantum V is a better lid.
But, and its a big but, they don't make good road lids.
They are noisy due the the amount of venting and in heavy rain they leak! Arai technicians swear the RX's don't leak but I've had 3 and they all let water in through the top vents in the rain if you are at the wrong angle or something.
Bottom line: if all you do is ride on the track, buy one.
If you really really want one and only ride in good weather - why not?
If you ride all year round or spend a significant amount of time in the saddle on the road - don't: the Quantum V is a better lid.
Post 8 by Supaduke,
#8Dank je Bert!
Hmm. Sounds like it's to expensive compared to others.
Hmm. Sounds like it's to expensive compared to others.
Post 9 by TLS_Russ,
#9The Quantum is the best road and track helmet Arai make, I have had them all including the RX7, the Quantum has been going for years that should tell you something and yes Arais are still made in Japan
Post 10 by fatbob,
#10think the gp has a little spoiler on the back between the fins
Paid £600 for mine and its noisy as fook , the visors are expensive and its a bit shit IMHO , I wish i hadnt bought it
Looks right smart though
Paid £600 for mine and its noisy as fook , the visors are expensive and its a bit shit IMHO , I wish i hadnt bought it
Looks right smart though
Post 11 by SDNerd,
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Post 12 by TLS_Russ,
#12Just different trendy names for you yanks
Post 13 by wizzzard,
#13i have de rx and a chaser and a quantum. i won't waist my money anymore on rx. It's lighter then the other ones, but that's really it in my opinion.
I rather buy a cheaper arai and have it painted in my own design.
I rather buy a cheaper arai and have it painted in my own design.
Post 14 by bic_bicknell,
#14I have an Arai Viper GT which was about £400 and it's really comfortable and quiet. A good helmet. Also have owned about three Quantums before that and they were great too. I now mostly wear a new RX7 GP and I got it new from a dealer who had ordered two for a customer who had put a deposit on a bike and then couldn't pay. So I only ended up paying £400 for this one too. It's all been said here. Probably the best helmet but it is very loud, wind noise very different from the other helmets - but I don't mind really. The new wider visor makes it worth it for me.
Post 15 by SDNerd,
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Post 16 by skypig,
#16I’ve had an Arai RX7RR(4?) Colin Edwards replica, now for years. I like the ventilation. I wouldn’t ride up the drive without earplugs, it’s so noisy (not a problem to me – just earplugs). The D rings rusted. The visor removal is a VERY SAD JOKE.
It’s time for a new lid. I was keen to get a Corsair V (A$1000 for plain colours)
I watched the above video review and they weren’t even willing to remove the visor for a demo! (So I can forget any improvements in that area!!) I’m told the D rings are stainless (I’m wondering if they claim that on mine). Going to the website associated with the review they list it as one of the heaviest helmets they have reviewed! Strike 3.
Next choice – Shoei X12. Quote: “We couldn’t tell if the vents were open”. “Even going from open to closed, we couldn’t notice anything”. No good to me, it was 31 deg C today and it gets hotter than that.
Now I have no idea what to buy.
I’m thinking maybe an AGV GP tech. I had a top of the line AGV before the Arai, and it was a big step down (quality and price) it had a visible “flat spot” on the shell, for example.
I have an Aeroh MX helmet – NICE! (and a Trials version) . I don’t think they are available in Australia, with the required “Bull Shit” stickers for road use.
I want a quality helmet with a nice dark or Iridium visor available and the best ventilation I can get. Colour is unimportant, but if it’s a grand plus, I’d like it to look good. Prefer replica paint! Any suggestions
edit
I can cross AGV from the list - http://www.motorcyclenews.com/MCN/Produ ... v-gp-tech/
It’s time for a new lid. I was keen to get a Corsair V (A$1000 for plain colours)
I watched the above video review and they weren’t even willing to remove the visor for a demo! (So I can forget any improvements in that area!!) I’m told the D rings are stainless (I’m wondering if they claim that on mine). Going to the website associated with the review they list it as one of the heaviest helmets they have reviewed! Strike 3.
Next choice – Shoei X12. Quote: “We couldn’t tell if the vents were open”. “Even going from open to closed, we couldn’t notice anything”. No good to me, it was 31 deg C today and it gets hotter than that.
Now I have no idea what to buy.
I’m thinking maybe an AGV GP tech. I had a top of the line AGV before the Arai, and it was a big step down (quality and price) it had a visible “flat spot” on the shell, for example.
I have an Aeroh MX helmet – NICE! (and a Trials version) . I don’t think they are available in Australia, with the required “Bull Shit” stickers for road use.
I want a quality helmet with a nice dark or Iridium visor available and the best ventilation I can get. Colour is unimportant, but if it’s a grand plus, I’d like it to look good. Prefer replica paint! Any suggestions
edit
I can cross AGV from the list - http://www.motorcyclenews.com/MCN/Produ ... v-gp-tech/
Post 17 by omky756,
#17Picked this up today for a smokin' deal at T.O.Powersports
I will add this...Far from $1000.00
on sale $100.00
Fits better than my Shoei at 1/4 the cost..Not quite as light as I thought but should be better ventilation..
(He said) and shouldn't..again(he said) fog up..Which my Shoei does all the time...
[img
][/img]
I will add this...Far from $1000.00
on sale $100.00
Fits better than my Shoei at 1/4 the cost..Not quite as light as I thought but should be better ventilation..
(He said) and shouldn't..again(he said) fog up..Which my Shoei does all the time...
[img
][/img]Post 18 by omky756,
#18[img
][/img]
another shot...
][/img]another shot...
Post 19 by ktmguy,
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Post 20 by skypig,
#20I try and ignore stupid laws/rules as much as possible. (ref Australian Standard sticker) I might buy one of these from the US.
http://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/nexx ... _chart_tab
I’m loath to mail order a helmet in a brand I haven’t owned before (size wise)
http://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/nexx ... _chart_tab
I’m loath to mail order a helmet in a brand I haven’t owned before (size wise)
Post 21 by AGRO!,
#21I'm not bagging anyone out here but its spins me out how many people with Arai just cant understand how to work the visor mechanism. Its a piece of P and I just don't get what all the negativeness is about. When I first got one it was like what the hell but I watched a few vids on you tube and it all made sense. I actually think its a great set up.
I know that Motor cycle accessories in Sydney have some of the old Rx7s so if you like the old model I would check them out. As for Shoei you are better off getting the 1100 it has better venting than the 12. Also If you can find the old X11 this would be the best choice in Shoei as the venting is the best I have come across.
I know that Motor cycle accessories in Sydney have some of the old Rx7s so if you like the old model I would check them out. As for Shoei you are better off getting the 1100 it has better venting than the 12. Also If you can find the old X11 this would be the best choice in Shoei as the venting is the best I have come across.
Post 22 by AGRO!,
#22What about one of these? I haven't seen one in the flesh but I've read good things about it. https://www.thehelmetwarehouse.com.au/store.php?crn=471
Post 23 by One67,
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Post 24 by skypig,
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Post 25 by Mr_Trecolareco,
#25That's another reason to love Shark helmets, 20 seconds tops and the clear visor is removed and the mirror attached
And it's 3mm visor is clear as glass and almost scratch proof.
For me after Shark, comes shoei with the xr1100
And it's 3mm visor is clear as glass and almost scratch proof.
For me after Shark, comes shoei with the xr1100
Post 26 by nampus,
#26I have a shoei xr1100, love it! Proper noticeable ventilation. Never fogs up thanks to the pinlock visor (which is wide enough to not obstruct your vision) visor swap takes 30 seconds.
For me it is very silent (had a xr900 before) but i still always use earplugs (made for my ears)
Before i bought this i tried several helmets, but the arai was crossed of the list as soon as i opened and closed the visor. Felt very cheap compared to the shoei 'clicks' i was used to, tried several different arais but they al had this)
After this i might try a Bell helmet. I really like the styling of those. Nice and simple just 2 wide stripes over the top. With shoei and arai it's almost always pinstripes tribals skulls etc. Not my cup of tea.
So i went for the xr1100 symmetry in black and white. Not as boring as a single colour unit, but not to shouty with the skulls and so on.
For me it is very silent (had a xr900 before) but i still always use earplugs (made for my ears)
Before i bought this i tried several helmets, but the arai was crossed of the list as soon as i opened and closed the visor. Felt very cheap compared to the shoei 'clicks' i was used to, tried several different arais but they al had this)
After this i might try a Bell helmet. I really like the styling of those. Nice and simple just 2 wide stripes over the top. With shoei and arai it's almost always pinstripes tribals skulls etc. Not my cup of tea.
So i went for the xr1100 symmetry in black and white. Not as boring as a single colour unit, but not to shouty with the skulls and so on.
Post 27 by kenscottphoto,
#27I had a Quantum and then moved to a Shoie Rf-1100 and I like it just fine. I do 99% of my riding on the street and I always were ear plugs. I enjoy the fit and the removable liner
Post 28 by AGRO!,
#28I’ll have to watch a FEW youtube vids till I find one that works for me because I bought one of the RX7 Corsairs from MCA you mentioned. $658 delivered. Thanks for the tip!(They have several sizes/colours left)
Sky "Hayden '07" Pig
No worries on the RX7 I think they are a good skid lid. I was just thinking have you tried to put one side in at a time when replacing the visor? This might work better.
Sky "Hayden '07" Pig
No worries on the RX7 I think they are a good skid lid. I was just thinking have you tried to put one side in at a time when replacing the visor? This might work better.
Post 29 by SDNerd,
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Post 30 by TC's SD,
#30Ok, i had to try my speed at the "infamous" Arai shield, with shield closed, open, removed, re-installed, then closed........................6.2 seconds I dont' see the problem either...? Although i'd like to try a Bell Star next
Post 31 by TLS_Russ,
#31if someone cant fit a visor on an Arai they should not go anywhere near a bike
Post 32 by Mr_Trecolareco,
#32It's quick...until the day you crack the side covers like so many have...and the noise is also due to the side covers.
but they must be doing something right, people love to buy them even at those prices
but they must be doing something right, people love to buy them even at those prices
Post 33 by AGRO!,
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Post 34 by Supaduke,
#34My main reason for wanting an Arai again, is because they fit me so well.
But, I'm not sure if it's worth the extra money for now (an RX that is), so I'm keeping my Quantum till I have more money, or bump into something else!
Thanks for the advice everyone!
But, I'm not sure if it's worth the extra money for now (an RX that is), so I'm keeping my Quantum till I have more money, or bump into something else!
Thanks for the advice everyone!
Post 35 by tripoddave,
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Post 36 by SDNerd,
#36Funny stories.
I don't know how it is outside the US, but its been my experience that Arai is really good about providing any/all warranted parts (like minor broken plastic bits - including that side covers) - gratis. That's for 5 years from time of purchase.
How are other manufacturers about this?
I don't know how it is outside the US, but its been my experience that Arai is really good about providing any/all warranted parts (like minor broken plastic bits - including that side covers) - gratis. That's for 5 years from time of purchase.
How are other manufacturers about this?
Post 37 by Mr_Trecolareco,
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Post 38 by SDNerd,
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Post 39 by TLS_Russ,
#39worn Arais for the last 25 years, only spare part i have ever needed apart from visors was one side pod for my old Condor and that was smashed by a pheasant hitting me in the head at about 140mph
trashed 7 Arais in accidents and my head still works ok, that will do for me
trashed 7 Arais in accidents and my head still works ok, that will do for me
Post 40 by AGRO!,
#40Hey Skypig have you got your new lid yet?
Post 41 by AGRO!,
#41This is probably one of the best vids on how to change the Visor on a Arai if your having problems
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4bIY1O2U ... re=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4bIY1O2U ... re=related
Post 42 by bic_bicknell,
#42I was at a bike shop in Stevenage yesterday and they have a deal on brand new RX7 GP for £300...
Only catch is that they are yellow with big lettering on them that says ' Ride before you buy'. It's some kind of promotion but if you can live with that then they are very good value.
Only catch is that they are yellow with big lettering on them that says ' Ride before you buy'. It's some kind of promotion but if you can live with that then they are very good value.
Post 43 by easygee,
#43If you are in the business to get a Arai helmet, Compacc has a Arai sale nowadays.
FYI
http://www.compacc.com/Arai-Clearance
FYI
http://www.compacc.com/Arai-Clearance
Post 44 by SDNerd,
#44loved my arai maverick and condor left my last arai in the garage after a rainy test ride on a 690 duke, 2 months later and the mould inside it looked like a cat had died in it, I cant justify the money for these lids now and next month I hope to be getting an under £200 ktm lid complete with dark visor, if it has a sticker and fits right then it should do fine
Post 45 by Bert,
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Post 46 by Superdan,
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Post 47 by dread,
#47Always had Arais but not buying any more, visor change PITA and side pods ping off and break.
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