Kawasaki Concours Forum
The C-14, aka Kawasaki Concours-14, the new one :) => The Bike - C14/GTR 1400 => Topic started by: Dodgedoc on April 29, 2012, 07:00:37 PM
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last week I bought a new helmet to go with my 2010 c14.It has been cold and raining all week . Today I was able to get out for about 2 hours or 90 miles . At first the the Neo was snug , it is a size medium and my head is at the smaller end of the size chart. The only options for fit is different size cheek pads ,all the helmets come with 35mm pads but there are 31mm pad replacements. Started out on the hiway and quickly realized how quiet this helmet is. The vents on top flow enough alr to move your hair around with only a slight wind noise at hiway speeds. The front shield has 5 detents and is solid at each position. The tinted shield that moves up and down easily and works without that plastic on plastic sound . Quiet and smooth. The chinbar operates with 2 fingers again quiet and smooth. After about 20 minutes I forgot how tight it felt and it very comfortable. Now I was is the slower back roads and this where I started playing wiyh te shields and riding with the chinbar in the up position, at all phases this helmet is quiet, smooth,and comfortable. It is truely the best helmet I have ever had.It is a all helmet.
Pros fit and finish very clean
quiet
smooth operation of all moving parts
all day comfort
Cons I thought the price was high until I rode with it
it is so quiet that I can not hear the bike running , time to get a Muzzy I quess
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Thanks for the review DD, I have one of these on my hunting list...
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My Qwest will have to do for now.....if I come home with another helmet, more than likely I will end up like John Bobbitt... :-[ :o
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Then you're wearing the helmet on the right head.
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I currently have an Scorpion EXO 1000 and the faceshield will not fog up no matter what. It's great. This must be a result of some coating on the shield. Does the Shoie remain fog free and if so it is a result of venting or a coating on the shield? I have had several Shoei helmets and they were very comfortable. Thanks---Rick
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yes there is a coating
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What helmet did you have before?
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Would you be familiar with the Qwest or the RF1000 ? Interested to know how it compares for noise ,perceived weight,with these two .
To me ,the Qwest is the real successor to the 1000, they feel like the same helmet.
Would sure like that sunvisor and flip feature ,though!
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previous helmets Bell Magnum 3/4 with full retractable shield buzzs and rattles falling apart in 18 months
HJC 3/4 10 years worn out
Arai Quantum full face still have it, very good but not as quiet as the Neo
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This is the helmet that I use, it is not nearly as quiet as the Shoei but it is 40% of their price. I love the sun shade I hate digging for my clip-ons and it works good over my regular glasses.
http://www.motorcyclecloseouts.com/sport/modular+helmets/hjc_is-max+bt+helmet+-+solid (http://www.motorcyclecloseouts.com/sport/modular+helmets/hjc_is-max+bt+helmet+-+solid)
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Hopefully the sunshield will make it's way into the entire line of Shoei helmets. Or at least into the so called touring line like the Quest. I'm sick of them changing shield styles so that you need to buy a new tinited visor every time you upgrade. Of course I can get the helmets 50% off so I guess I shouldn't complain too much.
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This was a review I posted a couple months ago on another forum after buying my Neotec.
After two years of extreme wind noise, and having to wear ear plugs with my HJC IS-MAX BT Modular, I decided it was time for a new helmet. I am getting ready for a trip to flagstaff in May and wanted to have a Bluetooth communication system in my helmet, and the HJC was not going to cut it.
The requirements that I was looking for included (quiet, or as quiet as a modular can be) an internal visor, secure chin bar, and lightweight. After reading plenty of reviews, the Schubereth modular (probably the best, but also the most expensive), I decided on the new Shoei Neotec. No dealer in town had any in stock yet (wanted to try one on). I ended up ordering from Revzilla.com since they have a hassle-free return policy and they had the lowest price on the internet. I ended up with the helmet in two days and luckily the helmet fit perfectly.
The first thing I noticed was how much more this helmet sealed around my head compared to my HJC. It includes a removable breath guard as well as the Shoei Pinlock system (anti-fog) which was a separate purchase with the multitec.
I went for a 50 mile ride, and I have to say this helmet is very quiet for a modular helmet. I love the internal visor. Unlike the internal visor in my HJC that seemed to be too close to my face and rest on the top of my nose (annoying), the Neotec visor comes down farther, and does not make contact with my nose. The venting which is suppose to be the biggest improvement over the Multitec, is very impressive. Although it is not warm by any means yet, you can really feel the difference with the rear vent to allow the air to flow through the top of the helmet over the head. I will probably appreciate this more as the weather heats up.
I purchased a Cardo Scala Rider G4 for this helmet. I can take phone calls, listen to music, GPS, and intercom without having to wear earplugs. I would highly recommend this helmet to anyone looking for a quiet modular.
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when I was testing my Neo I left my sunglasses on and the tinted shield slid past it without any issues, double tint. Wow!
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Would you be familiar with the Qwest or the RF1000 ? Interested to know how it compares for noise ,perceived weight,with these two .
To me ,the Qwest is the real successor to the 1000, they feel like the same helmet.
Would sure like that sunvisor and flip feature ,though!
I would say that the Neotec is a modular Qwest.
I have ridden a Qwest for over a year and really liked it, until I received the Neotec. The fit and feel is great and it is well padded and very comfortable. Sizing is the same as the Qwest. I like the Neotec better than even the C3.
An XL Neotec weighs 1888 gms (4.162 lbs), 4.9 ozs more than an XL Qwest weighs 1749 gms (3.85 lbs). I did not notice the extra weight and grew to love the added ventilation of the Neotec over the Qwest.
I have always had trouble with fogging on chilly mornings in stop and go traffic (commuting) with helmets using chin curtains and the Neotec has some similar problems, but great ventilation clears the visor quickly and the pinlock helps too. The chin curtain traps all that moist air in the helmet where the Qwest has no chin curtain and I had less fogging. Most of time I crack the visor open a couple of stops and I sit at those dumb stop lights fog free.
The Neotec is quieter than the Qwest. Start opening up all the vents and the noise level does increase. But still less than the Qwest.
I can't wait to try the Neotec out when we start getting into the 90's should be a great summer helmet.
Gordon
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I would say that the Neotec is a modular Qwest.
I have ridden a Qwest for over a year and really liked it, until I received the Neotec. The fit and feel is great and it is well padded and very comfortable. Sizing is the same as the Qwest. I like the Neotec better than even the C3.
An XL Neotec weighs 1888 gms (4.162 lbs), 4.9 ozs more than an XL Qwest weighs 1749 gms (3.85 lbs). I did not notice the extra weight and grew to love the added ventilation of the Neotec over the Qwest.
I have always had trouble with fogging on chilly mornings in stop and go traffic (commuting) with helmets using chin curtains and the Neotec has some similar problems, but great ventilation clears the visor quickly and the pinlock helps too. The chin curtain traps all that moist air in the helmet where the Qwest has no chin curtain and I had less fogging. Most of time I crack the visor open a couple of stops and I sit at those dumb stop lights fog free.
The Neotec is quieter than the Qwest. Start opening up all the vents and the noise level does increase. But still less than the Qwest.
I can't wait to try the Neotec out when we start getting into the 90's should be a great summer helmet.
Gordon
Just for clarification, The Qwest does come with a chin curtain though yours was not installed. I have 2 and they both had the curtains included.
I am looking forward to the added ventalation with the Neotec.
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An XL Neotec weighs 1888 gms (4.162 lbs), 4.9 ozs more than an XL Qwest weighs 1749 gms (3.85 lbs). I did not notice the extra weight and grew to love the added ventilation of the Neotec over the Qwest.
I Gordon,
How did you arrive to that number? I received my Neotec in XL size a couple of weeks ago and, according to my digital kitchen scale ;D it weighs 1665 grams with all the accessories included.
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I Gordon,
How did you arrive to that number? I received my Neotec in XL size a couple of weeks ago and, according to my digital kitchen scale ;D it weighs 1665 grams with all the accessories included.
I guess your lucky enough to get a light one. Mine still measures about the same on my Sunbeam digital postal scale. 1888 gms without pinlock, 1900 gms with pinlock. Web bike world size L 1812 gms, Revzilla 1757 gms. Ultimately it does not matter that much once you start riding with it and get used to the helmet. My Schubert C3 is lighter but it was uncomfortable for me due to the padding and the pressure points on my forehead.
Gordon
(http://img256.imageshack.us/img256/8972/neotecweight.jpg)
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The Neotec is quieter than the Qwest.
Any hard numbers on this? The quest is advertised as damn quiet. with actual numbers. I find it had to believe that any modular is quieter than a full face helmet. If it is than it may be my next helmet it Shoei doesn't get off their ass and put an integrated sun shade in all their touring helmets.
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I Gordon,
How did you arrive to that number? I received my Neotec in XL size a couple of weeks ago and, according to my digital kitchen scale ;D it weighs 1665 grams with all the accessories included.
Well, the silver helmet reflects light and a darker helmet absorbs more light so I'm thinking that those extra photons could be the difference maker.......or not. That's all I have at the moment.
That could also be why the silver bikes are faster as well, the photons push them just a bit more.
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I too just picked up a Neotec and am happy with the noise levels, function, and fit. The clearcoat on the paint is another issue. Everytime I tough it it scratches!! >:( I still have my Arai which I've used for the same rides with same equipment, etc and it shows no scratches in 5 years. The Shoei is showing scratches on the chin vent, main vent, and anywhere else I've had to touch. Disgraceful for a helmet costing this much!!!
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last week 300 mile day in 95 degree heat ,worked well in all phases ,lite silver paint with no marks on it hope my paint does not become a problem
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Goat,
I've read lots of reviews on this helmet and you're the first I've seen with a paint problem. Maybe you got a bad clearcoat. I'd contact Shoei and maybe they'll help you.
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A helmet thread? Cool!
After my last Shoei (RF-700) failed to even come close to the claims, promises, or expectations, I vowed it would be a long time before I considered buying that brand again (overpriced, under delivered were my thoughts as I recall).
Looking at the MSRP of the Neotec, I can't believe their asking price. Comparing it to the Scorpion EXO-900 (of which I have 2, one white, one black), what makes it so great that they can ask double the price? It looks to be about 85grams lighter, but I don't see any features it has that the Scorpion doesn't. In fact, it doesn't have the neck roll pump that the EXO-900 has. The Scorpion also comes with a second chin skirt that extends the reach of the first, that I thought was too much, and don't use. The primary one (which is removable) is just enough for me. Also, the venting at the top of the helmet works great, better then any helmet I've owned to date.
So far all I've read here about the Neotec is "it's quiet". My EXO-900 is very quite with the shield all the way down, at least compared to the 2 previous HJC Symax helmets I replaced. With it up, there's some wind noise, but I would expect that.
All helmets have different shapes and sizes, so some will fit better than others. I've found that by simply sanding down the Styrofoam at the pressure points, any helmet that is close, can be made to fit comfortably. Once you've determined your size, then simply customize it to better match the shape of your head.
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A helmet thread? Cool!
After my last Shoei (RF-700) failed to even come close to the claims, promises, or expectations, I vowed it would be a long time before I considered buying that brand again (overpriced, under delivered were my thoughts as I recall).
Looking at the MSRP of the Neotec, I can't believe their asking price. Comparing it to the Scorpion EXO-900 (of which I have 2, one white, one black), what makes it so great that they can ask double the price? It looks to be about 85grams lighter, but I don't see any features it has that the Scorpion doesn't. In fact, it doesn't have the neck roll pump that the EXO-900 has. The Scorpion also comes with a second chin skirt that extends the reach of the first, that I thought was too much, and don't use. The primary one (which is removable) is just enough for me. Also, the venting at the top of the helmet works great, better then any helmet I've owned to date.
So far all I've read here about the Neotec is "it's quiet". My EXO-900 is very quite with the shield all the way down, at least compared to the 2 previous HJC Symax helmets I replaced. With it up, there's some wind noise, but I would expect that.
All helmets have different shapes and sizes, so some will fit better than others. I've found that by simply sanding down the Styrofoam at the pressure points, any helmet that is close, can be made to fit comfortably. Once you've determined your size, then simply customize it to better match the shape of your head.
My RF-1100 is pure crap too. I think i started a thread in accessories about "its the last time i purchase this brand". And I was a huge fan of Shoei before this one, can't count how many I've owned.
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I'm not a huge fan of the RF1100 either. I actually found the Qwest a slightly better helmet than the RF1100, but the non-removable liner was a huge problem for me. I've been bouncing back and forth between an EXO-500 and RS-1. My EXO500 has a dark smoke shield; the RS-1 has a SOLFX shield. Each have their + an -.
As for weight, I wear a XXL in most and a XXXL in Scorpion, so a couple of ozs is nothing...
(http://www.motorserv.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/e/x/exo_500_ardent_red_2.jpg)
(http://www.motochanic.com/product_images/h/545/Bell-RS1-Helmet-Solid-Glossy-BK__37297_zoom.jpg)
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Good stuff to read, I own a Qwest and LOVE that helmet. The most comfortable, quiet, and best optics I have ever had. I have a visor that is clear at bottom then gets darker as it reaches the top "very neat visor". The Neotec doesnt have anything for me that would trump the Qwest, and I will have to agree that Scorpion probably makes the best helmet "for the money". How a helmet fits a person is first and foremost, the shape of the head and jawline makes a huge difference for each manufacturer and model.
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Oregon, I just went from a Shoei RF-1000 (very good helmet) to the Bell RS-1 just for the Sol-fx shield. The Bell is a nice helmet. About the same on ventilation and noise with the RF-1000. It was the shield that sold me and it was worth it. I commute year round--sometimes leaving before sunrise or returning after sunset during the winter and the transition shield is very handy. I looked at the Neotec and just couldn't wrap my head around the price. It was nice, though.
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I have both a Qwest and RF1100. Very happy with both helmets. To each his own.
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Well, I just passed the 5000 miles mark with my Neotec and really like it. I went back to my XR / RF 1000 and I'm glad to report that the main differences are, besides the obvious ones (flip up feature and integrated sun visor) there is also the highly improved ventilation and the extra space for my chin (which is more like a balcony :-[). Some people mentioned the Scorpion and I agree that it is a great helmet, and even more appealing considering the price tag, but it just wouldn't fit my head, and as Pokey said, fit is the most important point.
Anyway, happy with my purchase. I wish it cost less, but I'll get over it.
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Oregon, I just went from a Shoei RF-1000 (very good helmet) to the Bell RS-1 just for the Sol-fx shield. The Bell is a nice helmet. About the same on ventilation and noise with the RF-1000. It was the shield that sold me and it was worth it. I commute year round--sometimes leaving before sunrise or returning after sunset during the winter and the transition shield is very handy. I looked at the Neotec and just couldn't wrap my head around the price. It was nice, though.
My post wasn't clear, but I have both the RS-1 and the EXO-500 in the configurations mentioned.
I have 6 helmets in my collection now. I've been through ~12 helmets in the last 3 years. Always looking for greener grass but unable to find it...
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Wow, 12 helmets in 3ish years. How many pair of gloves have you got? :)
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My post wasn't clear, but I have both the RS-1 and the EXO-500 in the configurations mentioned.
I have 6 helmets in my collection now. I've been through ~12 helmets in the last 3 years. Always looking for greener grass but unable to find it...
Serious helmet fetish, and there is no perfect helmet there is always something that could be better. ;)
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Serious helmet fetish, and there is no perfect helmet there is always something that could be better. ;)
Hmm, that's not good, I have 10 on the shelf myself. :-\
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Wow, 12 helmets in 3ish years. How many pair of gloves have you got? :)
I have 3 pairs right now, but I plan to buy a pair of Gerbings later this year...
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I have one.
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Rather then start a new thread I will add my 2 cents worth here. Started back with motorcycles almost three years ago after a 25 year layoff. First helmet was a Bell Star because, well it's what I had all those years ago and I could get Bells at employee purchase pricing. Still love the way it looks but then I tried on a Shoei RF-1100. It turns out Shoei fits me like it was custom made for me. The RF-1100 was much quieter also. Just got a Noetec and it is as quiet if not quieter then the 1100. The flip up part if great, better vision, wind in the face and still quiet! The venting is great as is the tinted visor which is a God Sent on mornings with the sun right at eye level. I love this lid!!
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Rather then start a new thread I will add my 2 cents worth here. Started back with motorcycles almost three years ago after a 25 year layoff. First helmet was a Bell Star because, well it's what I had all those years ago and I could get Bells at employee purchase pricing. Still love the way it looks but then I tried on a Shoei RF-1100. It turns out Shoei fits me like it was custom made for me. The RF-1100 was much quieter also. Just got a Noetec and it is as quiet if not quieter then the 1100. The flip up part if great, better vision, wind in the face and still quiet! The venting is great as is the tinted visor which is a God Sent on mornings with the sun right at eye level. I love this lid!!
If you like the RF-1100, you should try the Quest. it is MUCH quieter than the Neotec.
I have bought 8 helmets in the last 3 years. Still use the Quest more than the Neotec.
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If you like the RF-1100, you should try the Quest. it is MUCH quieter than the Neotec.
I have bought 8 helmets in the last 3 years. Still use the Quest more than the Neotec.
Qwest is a great helmet "love mine" but obviously not a modular like the Neotec. ;)
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Qwest is a great helmet "love mine" but obviously not a modular like the Neotec. ;)
And the Neotec is LOUD compared to the Quest because of it.
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I ordered the Schuberth C3 from Revzilla and it didn't fit my head. Wish it did cause it was really nice. No hassle swap for a Shoei Multitec sz LG. Fits me like a glove and hands down the Neotec is what my next helmet will be.
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I just ordered a Neotec yesterday, guess I'll find out soon enough... :-\
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I just ordered a Neotec yesterday, guess I'll find out soon enough... :-\
Black?
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Black?
Indeed. :) 8)
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Indeed. :) 8)
Asphalt camo........ :o
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For those who have a headshape that just doesn't fit in a Shoei look towards the Signet Q from Arai. I tried on hundreds of helmets over the last few years and just couldn't find one that didn't squeeze my forehead. Turns out I have the classic head shape that Arai built the Signet Q to fit. Ordered from Helmet City (nobody in Canada had stock).
When I put it on it was like heaven. Went on a 6 day trip in July and I couldn't believe the comfort...no swollen forehead!!!
I don't know how the features stack up against the Shoei but I'm very happy with the cooling and noise level. ( Keep my headset turned down fairly low) The tall windshield helps with noise alot also as when I put that down and open all the vents on the helmet it is noticeably louder but that could be a sizing issue (I was on the line between XL and XXL...I went with the larger).
Frost black helmet and the dark visor look pretty sharp with a black coat!
If you can't find a helmet that fits try a Signet Q... it might just be the one that does.
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I don't know how the features stack up against the Shoei but I'm very happy with the cooling and noise level.
If you can't fit your head comfortably in the helmet for hours, all the features in the world are not worth it. You'll hate the helmet.
The Neotec and the RF/XR-1000 and 1100 fit me perfectly. I have a 1000 that I was very happy with, but I wanted the integrated visor and flip functionality. Been looking for it for a couple of years in other brands, including the money-no-limit Schubert, but all of them made me hurt on the forehead.
Then the Neotec came out. I had to overcome the price, but 15 000 miles later in the last 6 months I'm glad I did.
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I have the Neotec Borealis and love it. I have probably 1500 miles with it. I have the Multitec before this one and I like the Neotec better because it flows a lot more air and is quieter at the top vent than the Multi. Also the drop down shade is sweet, I didn't think t would be dark enough but it is. I haven't tried the pinlock shield yet, but with colder weather coming it will be in there before long.