Shoei Elias TC-1

I doubt it will come as a surprise to anyone that the X-Spirit is a truly fantastic helmet. At this price, there's no excuse for anything less. However, if you're trying to choose between this and an Arai RX-7 Corsair, or if you're wondering if this might be worth the extra money over Shoei's XR-1000, then I hope this review might help a little.

I actually own all three of these helmets, and I tend to just alternate between the Arai Corsair and the Shoei X-Spirit.

Most of the things that make this such a great lid are also true of the XR-1000. The fit and finish are of the same impeccable standard, the visor mechanism is first-class, and the vent switches are easy to use, even with gloves on, and sturdy. Ventilation is excellent on both--the X-Spirit seems to have slightly better airflow, but as a result, the XR-1000 is slightly quieter. Either way, the difference is only really noticeable when compared back to back.

The X-Spirit, scores extra points because it is a bit lighter and is very aerodynamically stable. You can tell this thing has spent many hours in a wind tunnel. There's no lift at speed, and it is stable even when you turn your head; so much nicer when you're changing lane on a motorway, for example.

I love Arai helmets. My first lid was a white Arai Quantum. However, if I know I'm likely to have to switch to my clear visor, I always take the Shoei out. Removal and replacement of the visor is quick and easy. Actually, the everything about the visor mechanism is beautifully designed, from the lock down lever, to the ratchet mechanism, which glides reassuringly along it's detents.

It is far superior to the Arai mechanism. I find that replacing the Arai visor is quite an irritating process. Just watch the "how to" video on the WhyArai website, and you'll see what I mean. The Arai "sidepod" design also adds to turbulence around the helmet, and therefore noise, in contrast to the flush-fitting Shoei design.

Similarly, the vents on the Shoei are very easy to use switches that feel strong and well built enough that I doubt they're going to wear out and start opening themselves. The eyebrow vents on the Arai feel cheap and old-fashioned in comparison. Little plastic "flip-down" efforts that I always feel like I'm going to snap off accidentally.

Vents open or closed, the Shoei visor also mists up noticeably less than the Arai. I don't even use a Pinlock insert on the Shoei anymore.

For me, the X-Spirit is worth the extra money over the XR-1000 because of the reduced weight and the aerodynamics. It just means I'm less aware of the fact that I'm wearing the helmet. For me, the fact that I can look around as I like, seemingly without any buffeting at all is just as important in terms of safety as impact protection. At high speed, the difference is very noticeable.

However, even though I can see and feel where the extra money goes, I'd say that unless you can get a really good deal on one, just get the XR-1000.

Is it better than the Arai Corsair? They're both wonderful helmets, and I love owning and using them both. For me, though, the visor mechanism and the lack of wind noise mean I spend more time wearing the Shoei.