Shoei X-11 vs. Arai Rx-7 Corsair

Tripwire25 · 09-24-2007, 08:14 PM

Im sure this has already been debated into the ground, however I thought I would post my thoughts why they are still fresh in my mind from tonights ride.

I have been wearing an Arai RX-7 Corsair for some time and find it to be an outstanding helmet. I recently decided to pick up a new helmet as my Corsair is almost 5 years old. I did some research and everyone talked up the X-11 as the premier helmet surpassing even the Arai. I decided to try one out.

I purchased the helmet new 3 weeks ago. I was immediately impressed with how light it was. I thought it even felt noticeably lighter than the RX-7. Fit was nice. And I love the face shield. I light the "ratcheting" type mechanism that clicks through its whole range of motion and I like how easy it is to change the shield out.

Airflow. I heard that nothing beat the X-11 in airflow into the helmet. I dont know if its the shape of my dome, but the Arai definitely flows more air into the helmet than the Shoei does. I love the airflow of the Arai. I do think the X-11 is quieter at speed. But that may be because the Arai feels like it dumps gobs more air into the helmet.

I also think the Shoei is a tad more comfortable. Not by much. And at speed, it doesnt blow around as much as the Arai does. Vision through the visor is outstanding. Again, better than the Arai.

I know people bitch about the prices of either helmet, but I dont. I want my head in the reasonably best helmet money can buy, with comfort and protection for the long haul.

I know I have really talked up the Shoei, and it is a great helmet. But I think if I could just have one, I would keep the Arai. That airflow around my head in the Indiana summer cannot be beat by any other.

RayOSV · 09-24-2007, 08:48 PM

You sure you had all the vents open on the X-11?

I really like my X-11, but have not been able to find an Arai that fits my head shape as well as Shoei. Totally agree with all the pluses you mentioned about the X-11.

Tripwire25 · 09-24-2007, 09:49 PM

Ha... I knew it wouldnt be long before someone said it..

and I triple checked.. They were open.. And flowin... haha

Mmelmann · 09-24-2007, 10:41 PM

I'm an Arai guy. That said, the X-11 was a nice fit. I tried on the Arai RX-7RR, but I didn't quite like it... then I tried on the Quantum II on and wow man. Even though it doesn't cost as much, it fit way better and felt much better. It basically has all the same features as the RX-7RR, but it just doesn't cost as much. For me, it was the better buy. Try it out... don't let the cost of things blur your vision all the time. The most expensive thing isn't always better. It usually is, but it wasn't so this time. (I've gone through 4 helmets by the way over the years... I love Arai the most)

Blake331 · 09-24-2007, 10:46 PM

My votes on the X11 but, still a great unbiased post!!

okie · 09-25-2007, 12:50 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mmelmann

then I tried on the Quantum II on and wow man.

+1

My Q II feels better than my Rx7.

21 natas · 09-25-2007, 02:11 AM

I've been an Arai person for years and recently bought an X-11 and it's a great helmet. But if I could only have one it would be another Arai...preferably a Haga or Nakano rep. but that will have to wait till Christmas.

Lexcruiser · 09-25-2007, 11:38 AM

Hehe.. I actually went the other way. Had the X-11 Wayne Rainey (LOVED IT) and switched it out for a Corsair Haga (Fire & Ice). Altho the X-11 felt and vented great, when I put on the RX-7, it felt like my head was inside a pillow. Venting did seem a bit better w/ the X-11 (quieter too) but comfort was my main concern and for me, the RX won hands down.

After using the shield change system more on the Arai, I've actually come to like it more than the Shoei system. True, it seems difficult at first, but once you learn it, you can literally change the shield out in less than 10 seconds with the helmet still on your head. Cant do that w/ any other helmet.

Regardless, both are great helmets.. you win either way.