all the different Arai models

[nisser250]

does anybody out there have different models of Arai's and can you shed some light on how each model differs from each other? i tried them all on and they all feel the same. i'm guessing the only difference is the airflow?? :dunno

i currently have the quantum s from about 10 yrs ago. i think i'm due for a new lid.

[therok229]

Corsair is the top of the line. Little lighter then the quantum, with better vents and air flow. Head liner is removable, which it isnt in the quantum model. Quantum and corsair feel like the same shape to me.

the profile (aka signet) is for narrower heads.

[nisser250]

is the new vector supposedly replacing the profile/signet?

[wstick1]

All the info you need: http://www.araiamericas.com/

Arai now has 3 different shapes: round, medium oval, and long oval.

[nisser250]

Originally posted by wstick1
All the info you need: http://www.araiamericas.com/

Arai now has 3 different shapes: round, medium oval, and long oval.

yeah, i checked their website too. it seems like they all have the same features except for the corsair which has a slightly different shell construction and a little better ventilation.

i was just wondering if anybody has first hand experience in owning different models and seeing how they compared with one another in the real world.

[wstick1]

Well, I have owned an Astral-X, Quantum 2, and a couple Corsairs. Out here in the valley, ventilation is very important, it gets really hot out here. I would say it might not be such a big deal out there in the bay. The Corsair definitely has better ventilation, and is lighter. Again, weight is not as much of a concern if you aren't doing long rides. Depends on your riding habits. Removable liners are great.

What it boils down to is what fits in your budget. The Corsair is a better helmet with regards to features, but the difference may not be worth the price of admission to you. Just go to Cycle Gear, buy one and wear it a couple weeks, take it back (no hassle exchange :teeth ) and get the other and try it for a couple. :cool

[nisser250]

Originally posted by wstick1
Well, I have owned an Astral-X, Quantum 2, and a couple Corsairs. Out here in the valley, ventilation is very important, it gets really hot out here. I would say it might not be such a big deal out there in the bay. The Corsair definitely has better ventilation, and is lighter. Again, weight is not as much of a concern if you aren't doing long rides. Depends on your riding habits. Removable liners are great.

What it boils down to is what fits in your budget. The Corsair is a better helmet with regards to features, but the difference may not be worth the price of admission to you. Just go to Cycle Gear, buy one and wear it a couple weeks, take it back (no hassle exchange :teeth ) and get the other and try it for a couple. :cool

yeah, i actually stopped by cycle gear on saturday and tried on a bunch of different helmets. the last time i was in the market for a helmet there was only like 4 or 5 brands to choose from, now there's a zillion. :confused too bad i did not do my homework before going there so i can mentally take note of the different shapes that arai has to offer. ultimately i did narrow my search back down to an arai. all the others just didn't feel right. now i just want to narrow the models down. i didnt feel much difference in each arai so now i am trying to justify paying top dollar for the RX7 corsair or not. i think i am leaning towards the new vector.

on a side note, has anyone ever ordered arai helmets on ebay? i've seen several ebay stores that sell arai helmets for over $100 off the retail price!!!

[wstick1]

A good Arai dealer will know how to measure your head to find out what shape is best for you.

[foxxzbear8]

Originally posted by nisser250


on a side note, has anyone ever ordered arai helmets on ebay? i've seen several ebay stores that sell arai helmets for over $100 off the retail price!!!

i bought an astral x back in 2005 from ebay, and just got in a wreck with it on last thursday. I paid $400 total, and I'm still here today. See the pic below. Thank god for my arai.

too bad the astral has been replaced by the vector. now i'm stuck between vector and corsair. the astral x was a perfect fit for me :cry

http://www.bayarearidersforum.com/forums/images/threads/000/212/936/3305101-img_1026.jpg

[nisser250]

wow, looks like you did a face plant! i hope you walked away with minor injuries. i went ahead and ordered a corsair hayden laguna seca edition. the date code is a year old but its ok. i dont really follow the 5 yr rule of thumb. especially since my current helmet has a born on date of 08/94! :toothless

i almost got the vector camo but decided to splurge and went with the corsair. they both fit great for me.

[blaze]

when i first started riding i had an old hjc helmet which i thought was good until i switched to a lighter arai RX7 helmet and realized what a big difference it was... i had an old RX7 yellow KRJR. when i went down it saved my mellon. i currently have an RX7 hayden helmet and love it. the corsair's have more flow and are lighter. imo, i think they're worth it, but go with what fits best and works with your budget.

[nisser250]

thanks for the input blaze. i tried on a bunch of brands and ultimately came back to whats been working best for me the past 13 years - Arai. i can't wait to ride around in the corsair. after looking at the ventilation on that helmet and then looking at my old school quantum-s, its no comparison. my quantum s has one little vent hole on top and absolutely no exhaust vents! hahaha. my melon's been deprived all this time!!!