I know I'm new here (just got the Connie a few weeks ago) but I picked up a new Neotec a few days ago. Put about 400 miles with it on Sat and Sunday. Some thoughts:
-I'm a long time Arai user (Quantum-2, RX-7 and currently an RX-Q) I wear a Lg and got a Lg in the Shoei. The Arai is a much more snug fit. The Shoei is much more comfortable, but it almost feels like it's too big. That could just be that I'm so used to the Arai. The liner is plush and well made.
-The Neo comes with a removable chin skirt. It gets in the way with it on, but the helmet is louder with it off. I miss the retractable one on the Arai.
-The retractable sun screen on the Neo is top notch. My buddy rides a Nolan, the Neo has far better coverage and less distortion. The slider is a bit small and takes some getting used to. No big deal though. So nice not to have to carry a spare face shield in case I'm out at night when the dark smoke becomes a problem.
-The front lifts super easy and has a detent at the top so it won't flip down on you. When you slide it up/down, it's VERY smooth with no noise. When it locks up, it's rock solid. Use the included lube when/if you get it and it'll be like silk.
-It has three vents. The chin vent doesn't open wide enough for my liking and the rear exhaust vent has a very small tab that's a pain to hit with gloves on. The top vent is great though. It's a nice change from the Arai (Two top vents, one exhaust vent, two shield vents and a chin vent) but the Arai moved a lot more air.
-There is now way around it, it's loud. And I'm coming from a helmet that is known as loud. The Neotec is far louder than the Arai. I always ride with ear buds in, and I found it somewhat distracting at speed with the windscreen down at it's lowest point. It's too bad really, the Arai moved more air and had less noise.
-The face shield is a PITA. It has VERY strong detents. I'm hoping they will break in a bit. Shield swaps is easy enough. Many will complain about the Arai shield swap system, I've been using it for years and have grown used to it. I can swap an Arai shield in seconds. The Neotec is simple enough.
-I do LOVE the field of view in the Neo. Far wider side to side than the Arai, makes head checks much easier.
Lastly, this is the first modular I've owned. The option of being able to flip up the face at red lights is hands down the best. It was 90 here in NH yesterday and I rode into the city. Being able to cool off while at stops or stuck in traffic is wonderful. I think I would have a hard time going back to a full face. The price is steep, and only you can say if it's worth it. Overall a nice helmet. I'm happy with it, but dropping the $600 on it hurt (had to hold off on the new slip on for a bit
