Shoei Neotec Helmet Review

Brand new for 2012, the Shoei Neotec Helmet takes the concept of one of the most popular modular helmets on the market, the Multitec, refines and redesigns, adding features to produce what we see as one of the most super premium flip-up helmets on the market. Shoei absorbed all of the feedback from the motorcycle community who had been riding in the Multitec, figured out ways to improve upon it, and created a modular helmet that is extremely aerodynamic and vents a claimed 276% more air than its baby brother. The Shoei Neotec Modular Helmet is an absolute home run product and we can't wait to see how it is received by the riding community.

Check out our Shoei Neotec Helmet Review:

Starting off with the changes to the Shoei Neotec versus the Multitec, let's run them down in bullet form:

• Retractable internal anti-fog and anti-scratch sun visor, with the smoothest mechanism we've seen, that provides ample coverage over the eyes and down the nose (an issue with some other drop-down sun shields).

• Pinlock-ready CNS-1 shield, which is wider and taller than the Multitec's shield and includes a pinlock insert for fog-free riding.

• New ventilation scheme with a redesigned top intake vent and a brand new rear exhaust vent. Redesigned channels within the EPS pull the air through and cool your head while riding.

• Cheek pads and comfort liner are now fully removable and washable. 3D design of interior is more comfortable and contours around the chin for a tighter seal. Cheek pads now feature a notch to allow a better fit with eyeglasses.

• Hinge mechanism is now on same axis as shield mechanism (Multitec had two separate hinges). This reduces the weight of the helmet and improves aerodynamics. In addition, the Neotec is using a 360º locking system for the hinge, which is a stainless steel mechanism that essentially scissors around the post rather than the simple "J" mechanism used by other modulars.

• The sealing of the shield has been improved, with a double sealing lip on the rubber gasket and a double ridge at the top of the shield, which will aid in noise and prevent any water from ever seeping into the helmet. 

• Vortex generator lips have been added along the ridge of the flip up portion along the jaw. Shoei found that this ridge was creating wind noise and slight turbulence. To combat these ills, the vortex generators channel the air in a way that improves aerodynamics and directs the air away from the internal sun visor mechanism that was causing the source of the noise.

• Removable cushioned ear pads for easy, seamless integration of bluetooth communication device.

• Improved overall design of EPS. Most modulars reduce the amount of EPS at the top, front of the head to accommodate the drop-down visor. The
  Neotec has the same thickness of EPS in this area, as the drop-down visor has been incorporated into the shell. You'll notice a slight protrusion in this area which, in addition to housing the sun visor, also creates better airflow by forcing air into the top vent.

• Three shell sizes as opposed to two shell sizes used by most modular helmets, including the Multitec.

• Removable breath guard and chin curtain.

Beyond this enormous list of upgrades over the Multitec, the Shoei Neotec is using the AIM multi-composite shell construction, which is a five-ply shock-absorbing fiber shell. It is also using the standard Shoei multi-density EPS liner which provides ample impact protection. The chin vent has been redesigned and flows air directly to the face and shield. Both the internal sun visor and external shield feature full protection from harmful UV rays. 

The Neotec Helmet is an absolute home run. We are extremely pleased with the big steps forward that Shoei has taken with their new modular, and it is certain to continue their storied tradition of high-performance motorcycle 

helmets. Stay tuned for an opinion review once we've gotten our hands on one for a few thousand miles of riding. Check out the rest of our selections by visiting our modular motorcycle helmets page.

-RetroZilla

Related:

Shoei Neotec Helmet

Shoei Neotec Modular Helmet: Preorder

Shoei Neotec Helmet

Featuring vast improvements over its predecessor, the brand new and highly-anticipated Shoei Neotec Helmet can be considered an upgrade over the popular Multitec. For many years, the Multitec has been a favorite amongst riders who prefer the flip-up versatility, and the Shoei Neotec has simply taken everything that made the Multitec such a success, made refinements and additions, and produced a helmet that is superior and sure to be just as, if not more, popular. Shoei simply continues to improve with each new model.

While we've not yet gotten our hands on one for a full video review UPDATE: our detailed video review can be found below.



Notable upgrades for the Shoei Neotec over the Multitec:

• Retractable Sun Visor
• Easily operable lever mechanism
• Anti-fog, anti-scratch, 99% UV blocking

• Improved ventilation and aerodynamics
• Newly designed vortex generators pull air through helmet
• 276% more airflow than Multitec
• Added inlets and outlets
• Vents are flush against helmet to maintain aerodynamics

• 5-Ply Shock-Absorbing Fiber Shell
• AIM Multi-Composite construction
• Lightweight yet strong

• Dual EPS Liner
• Multi-density EPS for optimal protection

Shoei Neotec Helmet Review:

-RetroZilla

Related:

Shoei Multitec Helmet

Shoei Multitec Modular Helmet Review

Modular Motorcycle Helmet Buying Guide

Bell Revolver Helmet: Bell Secret 2011 Helmet #1

Bell Revolver Helmet - Rally Black

We've recently caught wind that there are a few new Bell Helmets slated for release in early 2011 that we think are going to make an enormous splash in the industry. While we don't have many details right now, we've got a few notes to share that we think already make these helmets game-changers. We'll be releasing

The first of the new guys is going to be called the Bell Revolver Helmet. From what we understand, it is going to be a sport-focused modular helmet built for performance on the street. Modular helmets are generally designed for the sport and adventure touring markets and even for commuters, so to catch wind that the Bell Revolver Helmet is going to be a modular designed for sport and

Bell Revolver Helmet - Solid

street performance is a pretty big deal. There's also some buzz that it's going to come in at an extremely reasonable price point which is another huge plus.

More news as it comes, stay tuned for tomorrow's installment of Bell's Secret 2011 Helmets...

Update: Two colorways are available: the Bell Revolver Helmet - Solid and the Bell Revolver Helmet - Rally Black.

Nolan N90 Helmet Review: Brand New Modular

Always integrating new technologies into their innovative designs, Nolan Helmets continues to be one of the leaders in the modular helmet market. Their newest offering, the Nolan N90 Helmet, continues their tradition of making high quality helmets that offer a great deal of versatility for the Adventure and Sport Touring rider. With configuration options of full-face or jet-helmet style, the N90 promises to be another standout in the Nolan line, one which already includes the best-selling Nolan N43 Helmet and the Nolan N103 Helmet. Check out our full video review of the Nolan N90 Helmet below.

One of Nolan's goals in developing the N90 was to create a modular helmet that would perform off-the-charts in all touring conditions with a solid feature set but keep it at a reasonable price point. They really did a great job with this helmet, maintaining all of the standard Nolan features with some forward-thinking additions. The aerodynamically designed shell is built using polycarbonate and has a built-in spoiler to help with keeping the helmet stable at speed. It features a top-gun-style retractable sun visor that is the same thickness as the clear Lexan outer shield and easily operated with a rubberized glove-friendly slider. It provides excellent eye protection when the main shield is not in use.

One of the features that really sets this helmet apart is the noise levels. There are few modulars that will provide this quiet of a ride and one of the big reasons for this is the design of the faceshield. Where the faceshield of the N90 meets the shell, both the shield and shell are grooved near the hinge to maintain a super-snug seal against the gasket, preventing any excessive wind noise. The thick neck roll also aids in maintaining low noise levels. The shield comes with a Pinlock anti-fog insert, something we don't see with many helmets on the market (Nolan N90S Helmet does not have the Pinlock system). Utilizing Lexan to construct the shield is also pleasing, since Lexan is a nearly indestructible high-grade plastic.


The chinbar mechanism, which Nolan calls the Centromatic release system, is also a standout feature of the N90. It has a single release locking mechanism at the bottom that is pulled which allows the button above the chin vent to be pushed in, and using this as a handle, the chin bar easily lifts up. This same mechanism also keeps the helmet locked in place when in the flipped-up position so there is no risk of the chin bar falling down. The N90 also has superior ventilation, much better than most modulars out there. The large exhaust grid vent coupled with the dual intakes and chin vents creates great venturi effect airflow that will keep you
cool when you're rocking this helmet full-face. This helmet
is also ready for the NCOM Communication System.

Overall, we wouldn't doubt if this helmet quickly became one of the most popular modulars on the market. With its upgraded feature set that builds on the strong base of Nolan technology, it is going to be difficult for competitors to compete.

Check out other options by visiting our Modular Helmets page at RevZilla.com.

-RetroZilla

Related:
Nolan N43 Helmet Review
Modular Motorcycle Helmet Buying Guide
Shoei Multitec Modular Helmet Review 
Motorcycle Helmet Buying Guide

Scorpion EXO-900 Transformer Helmet- True Modular

The Scorpion EXO-900 Transformer Helmet truly offers the versatility of full-face protection and open-face riding. Most other modular helmets are not designed to be worn with the chin bar up since it is a safety hazard while other modulars that actually pull all the way to the back of the helmet end up being way too heavy on the neck. Not the case with the Scorpion EXO900. With a fully removable chin bar, an easy-to-install peak visor, and a retractable sun visor, you go from full-face riding to open-face feeling the breeze in minutes.

A relative newcomer to the motorcycle gear world in the last five years, Scorpion gear has come in red hot with some killer motorcycle helmets and jackets. Reasonably priced, the Scorpion EXO-900 Helmet is a great option for the rider who seeks flexibility in his gear. The shell is constructed from a polycarbonate composite and the interior features the AirFit helmet pump system for a snug fit. The AirFit system basically operates the way Reebok Pumps did (remember those?) by filling the liner with air until the fit is just right. It has a release valve for when you're done riding to allow you to easily deflate the interior and remove the helmet. That's pretty advanced. This helmet is also available in hi-vis yellow option for all the commuters out there.

The Scorpion EXO900 Transformer's shield is EverClear, which translates to a fog-free ride. The KwikWick moisture-wicking liner is removable and washable and, as I said before, inflatable to your desired level for comfort and safety. The helmet is DOT and ECE approved. Check out the video above for the full demonstration on how to transform this helmet from full face to open face very quickly.

You can find our full lineup of modular motorcycle helmets at RevZilla.com.

Keep it versatile.

-RetroZilla

Here are some related modular helmet blog posts:

Scorpion Helmet Buying Guide

Shoei Multitec Helmet Review

Shark Evoline Helmet Review

Scorpion EXO-1000 Helmet Review

Modular Motorcycle Helmet Buying Guide

Modular Motorcycle Helmets continue to grow in popularity as more and more motorcycle riders seek versatility in their gear. At the very basic level of functionality, a modular helmet has a hinge on the chin bar allowing it to be flipped up when stopped for de-fogging purposes, fresh air, to smoke a cigarette, or any other reason you'd want to turn a full-face motorcycle helmet into an open-face helmet with ease. Some modular motorcycle helmets even allow you to completely transform the helmets to the point where they are road-safe. Consider this video your 2010 Premium Modular Motorcycle Helmet Buying Guide.

The intent of this video buying guide is to help connect the dots for anyone out there seeking a modular helmet but not quite sure of the differences between the many different models. Here are the helmets featured in the video with a quick explanation of their feature sets:

HJC Symax 2 Flip-Up Helmet - $251.99

• Entry-level modular motorcycle helmet
• Easy flip-up open/close chin mechanism
• Round head shape
• CoolMax Removable Washable Moisture-Wicking liner
• Retractable spring-loaded internal visor
• Available in eight colors
• Removable padded ear panels for communication system

Nolan N43 Trilogy Helmet - $269.96

• Completely removable chin bar for six configurations
• Retractable internal sun visor
• Removable Washable Antimicrobial liner
• Ready for N-COM Communication System
• DOT and ECE 22-05 Certified
• Quick change shield with pinlock antifog option
• Microlock retention chinstrap

Scorpion EXO-900 Transformer Helmet - $269.95

• Can be ridden as open-face helmet at speed
• Tool-less change from full face to open face
• AirFit helmet pump system for perfect fit
• EverClear no-fog shield system
• KwikWick moisture-wicking washable liner
• Retractable SpeedView internal sun visor
• Superior ventilation for a modular helmet
• DOT & ECE 22-05 Certified

Nolan N103 N-COM Helmet - $359.96

• Ready for N-COM communication system
• Aerodynamic polycarbonate shell
• Integrated spoiler for excellent stability
• Dual-action Centromatic chinbar release
• Sanitized antimicrobial washable liner
• Easy to operate vents for excellent airflow
• Microlock chinstrap retention
• Retractable internal sun visor

Shark Evoline Series 2 Helmet - $349.50

• Chin bar locks in behind head for open-face riding
• Extremely aerodynamic with great airflow
• Round head shape
• Retractable internal sun visor
• Easy to operate open/close mechanism
• Removable washable moisture-wicking liner
• DOT & ECE 22-05 Certified
• 9-position ratcheting shield
• Scratch-resistant anti-fog shield

Shoei Multitec Helmet - $434.69

• Lightest modular motorcycle helmet at RevZilla.com
• Easy one-handed open/close mechanism
• Minimized wind noise and drag
• Removable washable moisture-wicking liner
• Compatible with communication systems
• Excellent airflow & aero dynamics
• Scratch-resistant shield
• DOT Certification

These are our six favorites in the lineup of modular motorcycle helmets we carry. Of course you can check out the rest by visiting the modular helmet page at RevZilla.com. These helmets offer some of the finest, most versatile technology due to extensive R&D. Being huge fans of ADV touring at RevZilla, we love flip-up motorcycle helmets. Get flexible!

-RetroZilla

Related Posts:

Shoei Multitec Modular Helmet Review

Shark Evoline Helmet

Scorpion EXO-900 Transformer Helmet

Shoei Multitec Modular Helmet Review

As most people know by now, modular motorcycle helmets have taken the industry by storm in recent years. Interest in the Sport & ADV Touring and versatile gear continues to grow, and more and more manufacturers are rolling out their offerings in the modular market. Introduced in 2006, the Shoei Multitec Helmet continues to dominate the realm of modulars much like its predecessor, the Shoei Syncrotec, did.

As with every product Shoei releases, the Multitec has excellent aerodynamics, low wind noise, and superb airflow, especiall for a modular. With the same shell construction (Advanced Integrated Matrix) as the Shoei RF-1000 and Shoei X-11, the Shoei Multitec can offer all of the great features as those helmets: airflow designed to keep you cool and your shield fog-free, interchangeable cheek pads for accurate & snug sizing, and the QRBP system. The Quick Release Base Plate makes shield changes tool-less and simple; it also ensures a snug, air-tight fit. It's also one of the lightest modular helmets we carry at RevZilla.com, so there's no concern that long riding will result in discomfort.

The modular aspect of the helmet is on point as well. A large single button release lives on the chin of the helmet and is easily operable with or without a glove on. Pull up to a red light wanting some fresh air? Two seconds and the helmet is wide open.

This helmet, as with all modular helmets, is only DOT certified due to the hinge on the front. That eliminates the possibility of a Snell rating. However, the shell construction coupled with the liner system, ensures safety.

Check out the Multitec at RevZilla.com. It comes in 11 different colors and is reasonably priced for the quality that Shoei consistently delivers; they rarely disappoint.

-RetroZilla