carbon helmets, worth the extra $$? well, my current lid (scorpion 500) is 5 years and 20k miles old. I really like it, but want to explore my options. I like the price, looks, and features of the scorp 500, that's about it. In size large I have a pressure point on my forehead and the chin bar is extremely close to my chin. So close that when i put off getting a hair cut, and shaving my chin rubs on the inflater button. I was thinking about getting another scorp in the next size up, because i really like the lid, but I'm the type of guy that likes to trade up... so I'm looking hard at the new shoei rf 1200, and bell star. I have tried on the rf1100, and the star, both fit and feel amazing. the price difference between the normal bell star (on clearance), and the bell star carbon is pretty big. other then bling factor is there any advantages to going with the carbon over the normal model?
The light weight makes itself known after a full day in the saddle. You won't notice it bopping around town for a few minutes, but after a 3 day track weekend it can add up. Carbon has a distinctive natural frequency as well... it just resonates differently than fiberglass or polycarbonate. In a higher end helmet it won't be an issue, but in my older HJC Carbon I noticed it. Without ear plugs it would drive me crazy. It's a difficult sensation to describe, but everything from wind to rocks to bugs sounded different in that helmet. A nicer interior would eliminate that, I would think. I was still one of my favorite helmets, as I liked the light weight! -Tom
My helmet history is: Scorpion EXO-1000, Shoei RF-1100, Nexx XR1R Carbon, Bell RS1, Bell Star Carbon (2013 Model) In all of that, the Star Carbon is by far my favorite helmet. The Nexx was definitely lighter, but Bell's fit on my head is perfection. Also, you shouldn't be paying full price for a Bell helmet. If you happen to be a member on any Motorcycle.com-run forum, check if RidersDiscount is in the sponsors section and shoot them a PM, they'll give you the best deal out there. The price between the Star and Star Carbon is negligible (from them) and I think it's worth it for the lighter weight.
Cosmetic IMO.... If your neck muscles cant handle a normal helmet all day you have more serious problems to deal with.... I like them and have tried one.. AGV I think... Not worth the coin IMO..
The "real benefit" is the weight. Every ounce counts when it comes to straining your neck all day/weekend. CF is the way to go and the way of the future! The best lid for the best price EURO is the Bell Star Carbon or the X-Lite ordered from ebay. Personally I have had Aria Corsair V, Bell Star Carbon, and the X-lite. The X-lite wins (for me) all the way around. Even over the Aria Corsair V......
Also, the enclosure system is a big deal to consider as well as the "field of view" that is offered from each helmet.
Well the lid fits great, but I haven't been able to get any riding in yet to cold and wet. I'm really happy with it, and glad a paid a little extra..
Pimp paint on a helmet is crucial. like they say: "If you have to be slow, you'd better look fly doing it!"imp:
I want to see the weight difference between tthe Bell Carbon and a new Arai or Shoei... I have been riding multiple days over many years and have never experienced a Neck Strain with a standard helmet..
I haven't tried the Arai or Shoei in carbon, but my last few helmets were: Bell Star Carbon 2013 (current), Bell RS-1, and Nexx XR1R Carbon. The Bell Star Carbon is not significantly lighter weight than its non-carbon version (in my opinion). The XR1R Carbon is crazy lightweight in comparison, so I think it is something that varies wildly by brand as well as the safety standards they meet (Bell meets Snell, XR1R meets ECE).
Im not a helmet guru, but I will say that "stability" at speed and the aerodynamics of the helmet seem to be more important than the weight as it relates to fatigue. Ive noticed that some helmets tend to "bounce" around at speed more than others.
good point on the aero, i didn't really think about that. i dont carry a scale around but i held a star carbon, and std in each hand, and i couldn't really notice any difference in weight.. it is however a lot lighter then the scorp 500 i'm used too, with it's flip down shield, and pump up cheek pockets. i was thinking the cf would be harder/stiffer then the normal shell, allowing them to make the shell thinner, therefor more room for padding...?
I just purchased a 2013 Bell Star to replace my 5 year old Arai Corsair RX7. All my worries about it not measuring up to my Arai were quickly dispelled,and I am thrilled with my purchase of my Bell Star.