Backup helmet...

[GixerJockey]

So, I need a backup helmet for this race season. Looking for some suggestions. This will only be worn if I bonk my primary helmet, so I'm looking for something cheap, that has enough protection that I won't mess up my squash in the event of an off. Probably something in the $300-$400 range. I've been a tried and true Arai wearer for as long as I can remember... so I'm spoiled, and even thinking about wearing an inexpensive helmet is a big step for me. My primary helmet for the year (or until it's smashed, whatever comes first) will be a Shoei X12. I don't want, nor can I really afford, another $600+ helmet, as a backup.


What do you guys think? I'm looking for some real advise. Not just "my $200 Scorpion is comfortable". What have you guys found that might be off the grid, and offers superior crash protection? I don't care if it's ugly... Closeouts really aren't an option since I need to get as many years as possible out of it. It's going to be strictly a backup. So if its already three years old, it might sit in the trailer for another two, and never get worn... that would be just throwing money away.

[Puppet]

look at the new RF1200 - MSRP for a plain color is like $480. I'm sure you can do better than that online or at a dealer hookup.

Had you posted this last week, I'd have been happy to pick it up at the motorcycle show. The local dealers at the shows have been doing some pretty rocking prices.

As a bonus, it's even lighter than your current X-12

[OneCheekRider]

I got a Bell Star Carbon for $300 at STG last month (retail $600+). It's not even a year old. STG actually price matched the same helmet I found somewhere else for that price. I've seen great deals for Bell RS-1's too. I only rock bells.

[GixerJockey]

Sounds like I should at least try on a Bell...

[Rada]

Bell RS-1 is in that price range and I have crash tested a couple.
They fit good and snug and are pretty quiet. They also have about the most fog resistant shield on the market.


I have a number of them depending on my mood....

[Gecko]

Primary is a Arai Corsair V ... backup is a flat black Arai RX-Q, picked up new on fleabay for < 250 (build date was 1y/o at the time). I just passed up on a new one with an 08/12 build date that was < $230. Always on the lookout, year-round.

[nhbubba]

NewEnough still has the Shoei Qwest on closeout for $300 if you aren't picky about colors and style. I think its SNELL M2010. Only gamble is the date code.

I'm no racer, but I've been using the Qwest for street doody for a while and happy about it.

I've been half tempted to order a 2nd as a backup. Especially since one style they have left is obnoxious day-glow.

[Kurlon]

I'm racing in a Qwest, quite happy with it. 5 star Sharp rating which is why I went with it. http://sharp.direct.gov.uk/testhelme...discontinued=1

[Sheppo]

I have crash tested a Scorpion and that will be my next helmet

[McBiggity]

I've crash tested two scorpions. A low side on my face and a highside where my head hit hard. I'm still wicked smaht

[butcher bergs]

Shoei RF1200

[ilikenapalm]

Make sure it fits your head.

[GixerJockey]

Make sure it fits your head.

No shit.

Thanks for the advise Matt. I'd have screwed that up otherwise.

[Chippertheripper]

You seem like the type of cat to turn your nose up at this, but since I honestly believe what I'm about to say, I'm gonna say it.

The hjc fg17 is a LOT of helmet for short money.
http://hjchelmets.com/hjca/fg17_force/3104
And it comes in a variety of graphics to suit yo candy ass.

[GixerJockey]

You seem like the type of cat to turn your nose up at this, but since I honestly believe what I'm about to say, I'm gonna say it.

The hjc fg17 is a LOT of helmet for short money.
http://hjchelmets.com/hjca/fg17_force/3104
And it comes in a variety of graphics to suit yo candy ass.

That's exactly the stuff I'm asking about. Because... 1. I am a bit of a candy ass. And 2... I've been trained to be a bit if a helmet snob.

I'm willing to try and change that mindset for this application.

[loki32687]

Love my NEXX XR1R Carbon. Looks like they are on sale for about $400. The non carbon is around $300 now IIRC

[nhbubba]

NewEnough still has the Shoei Qwest on closeout for $300 if you aren't picky about colors and style.

Just found a fleabay listing for Qwests in solids for $285 shipped.