Shoei Qwest Helmet Review

Highly anticipated and long-awaited, the Shoei Qwest Helmet arrives as a direct competitor with the Arai RX-Q. Shoei is positioning this helmet as a long-distance touring version of the mega-popular Shoei RF-1100 Helmet. They re-positioned the ventilation system to accommodate an upright riding position and changed the ergonomics of the fit to create a helmet that any long-distance tourer will appreciate. Check out our full HD review of the helmet below:

As mentioned above, the shape of the Shoei Qwest Helmet is different than the RF-1100. It is slightly rounder and more along the lines of the RX-Q. In doing so, this helmet is able to accommodate a wider array of riders and also provides ample space for the mouthpiece of a bluetooth communicator, keeping in mind that many touring riders love those. It also is a full 1.2 dB quieter than the RF-1100 when riding at highway speeds. This comes as a result of the repositioning of the ventilation, which, as I said, is designed to flow the most air when riding upright. The difference in noise-level and how much quieter this lid is becomes quite noticeable when hitting highway speeds.

Four different shell sizes are utilized for a total of seven helmet sizes (2XS-2XL) for precise fit and maximum compactness. It weighs in at an average of 3.6 pounds which is relatively light for a helmet designed for long distance touring. The AIM+ shell fuses a blend of Fiberglass, Carbon Fiber & Dyneema together for lightweight performance coupled with remarkable strength. It utilizes the same shield as the RF-1100 and X-12 as well which is the CW-1, a mist-retardant anti-fog shield that features tool-free quick release and spring-loaded detents for a firm seal against the top gasket providing superior rain protection.

The Shoei Qwest has great balance and weight distribution. The ergonomics and aerodynamics are well thought-out. It flows a great deal of air for the touring rider and, well, it's a Shoei helmet so you know what to expect. This helmet is going to be an absolute home run.

Check out the competition by visiting our Touring Helmets page at RevZilla.com.

-RetroZilla

Related:

Touring Motorcycle Helmet Buying Guide

Arai RX-Q Review

Shoei RF-1100 Review

Motorcycle Helmet Buying Guide

Scorpion EXO-1000 Helmet Review

One of the newest motorcycle helmet offerings from Scorpion, the Scorpion EXO-1000 helmet continues their trend of packing a ton of next-level features into a reasonably-priced premium helmet. The EXO1000 is designed to be ridden in the upright position for long distances, and will flow a great deal of air, making it a great premium touring motorcycle helmet option.

As I said, the Scorpion EXO 1000 Helmet is absolutely chocked with features. First and foremost is the long-hyped HelmetPump design that had the buzz for this helmet going well before its release. Everyone remembers those shoes from the 80s and 90s that you could pump up for a perfect custom fit. They've integrated that technology into the helmet and it works spectacularly: the cheek pads and neckroll inflate for a snug fit, and at the end of the ride a release button deflates for easy on/off. The next biggie on this helmet is the retractable internal sun visor system. The SpeedView Visor, as Scorpion calls it, eliminates the need to change shields when the sun comes out or fumble for a pair of sunglasses.

Beyond that, you've got the trio of Scorpion features: the SpeedShift quick-change shield system, allowing you to swap out shields without tools in ten seconds or less; the EverClear fog-free faceshield with a scratch resistant coating; and the KwikWick antimicrobial removable washable moisture-wicking liner. The ventilation system is fully adjustable and will keep your head nice and cool (couple with the moisture-wicking liner) at long distance rides. Easy open/close vents are located at the brow, the chin, and the top of the head with a large open/close exhaust vent at the back of the head for venturi effect airflow. This is without question a premium touring helmet. It's also DOT & Snell certified.

Visit our motorcycle helmets page at RevZilla.com to view this helmet and all its competitors.

-RetroZilla

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Scorpion EXO-900 Hi-Viz Modular Helmet

Shoei RF-1100 Helmet Review

Arai RX-Q Helmet Review