Triumphrat

Paddyboy30 · 08-21-2008, 12:43 PM

Okay, so I'm saving up to get rid of my (incredible) starter helmet...my Simpson Bandit Sidewinder....a racecar helmet that was retired from dirt modified racing after 2 trips to the track. I want a purpose built motorcycle helmet. The dealer closest to me (not a Triumph dealer) highly recommends Shoei helmets, and I see a lot of sportbike guys wearing them. I really want a high quality and high safety helmet to keep my tiny brain safe. Anyone have any feelings on this brand? I'm new to riding, so while I've heard of them, I don't know the reputations. The price seems right with them, the solid color ones are nice (no graphics), and the fit on the one I tried was good....I just want to know about people's experience with them though. Thanks!

BonnieBlack07 · 08-21-2008, 01:05 PM

Paddyboy -
I can only give you my opinion based off my own experience with a Shoei TZ-R, one of the "mid-range" Shoei helmets. I'm a new rider (1 year), and when I went to buy my first helmet, I did plenty of research on websites and at stores by fitting them on my head and checking weight, visibility, comfort, etc. www.webbikeworld.com is a great resource and has a vast number of reviews that I looked at as well, including Shoei TZ-R, RF-1000, etc.
I personally love my helmet. I ride a 2007 Bonnie, so the sport helmet is a little off-kilter when it comes to the whole "look." But, after trying multiple helmets on, including HJC, Arai, Icon, Shoei, Scorpion, the Shoei fit my head the best. I have a smaller noggin though, and relatively oval. As I'm sure you know, each manufacturer has different 'inside' shapes to their helmets, and some, like Arai, fit more oval heads better.
Without getting too long-winded, I wanted a helmet that fit snug and secure, reduced wind noise well, and had plenty of venting so my head didn't cook like an egg. The TZ-R did all of these VERY well. Unfortunately, Shoei are a little more on the expensive side. But, I can honestly say the money is well worth it for the comfort and fit, as well as being safe (both DOT and Snell approved).

Medic09 · 08-21-2008, 02:10 PM

My wife and I both have the RF-1000. We are both very happy with them.

As long as you are looking at brands of relatively equal quality, the absolute key thing is what fits. Different shapes for different heads; so you need to try some on. I was sure I was buying a Nolan for my next helmet. It fit well. Then I tried on a Shoei and it was so much better for my particular shape head.

For the money, Shoei makes a reasonable quality helmet. For prices, try the guy I linked in the jacket thread.

Fireman · 08-25-2008, 10:49 AM

I have a both a RF-1000 and a TZ-R. I am immensely pleased with both of them. When I have to have parts (vent covers, cheek pads), I just go to the Shoei website and order up, comes in 2-3 days. To repeat what everybody has [I]ad infinitum, ad nauseum, [I]fit is everything. Try 'em on, wear 'em for a while, and understand that it will break in a little over time. Good luck.

Paddyboy30 · 08-25-2008, 02:13 PM

Thanks guys. I can't really argue with firemen and medics....since I'm a volunteer firefighter too

Paddyboy30 · 08-28-2008, 01:49 PM

okay, Just bought the Shoei last night....a white TZ-R with a dark smoke visor....nice and light compared to my old Simpson! A little louder though....but it should be good to go should I make a quick unexpected introduction with the ground.

Fireman · 08-28-2008, 01:57 PM

Good for you. I know there is a lot of debate about DOT and Snell approvals- I like knowing the brain bucket I've got can take multiple hits. Plugs and/or noise cancelling earbuds work great for the wind noise; I got some Skull Candy buds for my MP3 player and they work great. Be safe.

jadel · 08-28-2008, 09:53 PM

That is a great choice. Just make sure it fits your head well.

Paddyboy30 · 08-28-2008, 11:14 PM

Thanks! I had the guy at the shop fit me with a couple different sizes along with different cheek pieces, and definitely got the right fit. Hopefully I won't NEED it soon and it'll make my head look pretty for many years...I can definitely use any help with looking good!