Hot New Stuff
Meeting a New Standard
Back in 2003 Shoei Safety Helmet Corporation released the evolutionary RF-1000 sport-touring full-face helmet. In response to a new homologation of mandatory US and international helmet safety standards combined with the new voluntary Snell M2010 helmet standard recommendations Shoei recently launched the all-new RF-1100. In simple terms this means that manufacturers can now make helmets for the world instead of different helmets for differing countries and standards of safety.
One of the biggest differences with the new Snell standard is testing procedures related to the size of the head. Until now Snell tested an extra small helmet with the same amount of weight as the largest of helmets. Critics pointed out that this was not a fair test and could lead to helmets made harder than they needed to be; particularly for the smaller sized lids. This may seem counterintuitive but a helmet works by dissipating and absorbing impact and not by transferring force directly into your head. So, some 'give' is engineered into the design of a helmet's shell and padding. A fine balance must be met that can be tested scientifically.
What this means to us as riders is a more protective helmet. But Shoei didn't stop with just making a safer helmet. The RF-1100 incorporates the latest developments in aerodynamics for a helmet that slices well through the wind while still being quiet. A spoiler was integrated into the rear of the shell that helps reduce lift at higher speeds as well as helping airflow over the helmet. In addition, instead of relying on varying thicknesses of foam padding to fit different sized heads, the RF-1100 offers five different shell sizes throughout the XXS-XXXL lineup.
Ventilation is a big concern for riders wearing a full-face helmet and Shoei addressed this issue by adding three intake and six exhaust vents in total. Wind tunnel testing revealed that the optimal location for exhaust vents is actually much higher on the rear portion of the helmet's shell than originally thought. Better ventilation and aerodynamic performance is achieved by separating the spoiler and exhaust vents. The exhaust vent holes have been relocated to take better advantage of negative pressure suction, dramatically improving exhaust ventilation. The variable ventilation system allows riders to select the perfect balance between airflow and silence. It also happens to work really well, as this might be the quietest full-face helmet we've ever worn.
The center pad and multi-layer cheek pads are removable and washable to keep your lid as fresh as the day you got it. Multi-layer cheek pads are available in six different thicknesses to allow riders to customize the fit of their new helmet. An all-new tool less quick release shield is taller and wider for better visibility while also blocking out significant UV rays from the sun.
If you're in the market for a quality new helmet give the RF-1100 a ride. Check out your local dealer or log onto shoei-helmets.com for more details.