Show season saw Arai unveil three updates or new helmets to its 2019 range - Urban-V, Profile-V and a new SZ open-face - the SZ-R VAS (Variable Axis System).
Arai launched its first generation SZ open-face helmet in 1988 - aimed at the busy urban riding environment of downtown Tokyo. It has constantly evolved over the last 30 years, with each generation of SZ model “majoring on comfort, convenience and, of course, protection” and since its debut it has “become a favourite in Europe for professional riders, tourers and commuters alike”.
SZ-R VAS
Based on its experience with the SZ Ram-X, especially in Paris, the ‘VAS’ designation refers to Arai’s Variable Axis System’, as already seen in four full-face models - a technology that is designed to improve the impact protection and “glancing-off ability in a critical area”.
The completely redesigned compact PB-CLC2 shell (the same as used in QV-Pro) is reinforced by a SF (Super Fibre) belt in the front and at the back to make it even stronger.
The VAS shield is 14 mm lower than the previous design, to keep the shell round and smooth for better glancing-off properties in this area. Compared to the previous visor, the VAS design has an extended shape to offer better visibility and improve wind protection.
Thanks to the dual system, the visor can be opened and closed much more easily and there is the possibility to add a Pinlock (as an option). There is also the option to use the PRO Shade sun visor, which up until now has only been available on the Arai’s full-face helmets - the brow vents have been redesigned and the new shape is said to be easier to operate and features a more efficient air intake.
The Diffusers (DF # 12) are the same type as used on the range-topping RX-7V. The angle of the fixed aero wing has been revised to be more in line with the shape of the diffuser in order to improve stability and reduce rider fatigue.
With the new speaker-ready interior and cheek pads, the contact points on the rider’s head have been distributed more evenly for a new feeling that is said to gently wrap the entire head and prove to be a better fit for long, oval heads. The cheek pad shape has also been modified to firmly hold each cheek (Facial Contour System/FCS). They feature the 5 mm peel-away layer to customise the helmet for a perfect fit. There is also a slit in the foam to make it easier to put on glasses.
An extra water-resistant layer has been added to the cheek pad foam to protect from the rain. There is also a foam piece added to the cheek pad to keep the ear pocket in place and remove pressure, further improving comfort. There is also a recess padded ready to receive a speaker; to hear it better and to reduce wind noise, foam has been added around the chinstrap.
The SZ-R VAS uses Arai’s original Super Fibre belt, which prevents the shell from cracking-in when a strong impact hits at the eye-opening area - it was originally developed for F1 helmets. PB-CLC2 is the same construction as used on the QV-Pro, the company’s top touring model. The SZ-R VAS also uses a new resin, which is said to be “extremely rigid”, but still finishes up lighter than before; the SZ-R VAS is also designed with a low centre of gravity.
Arai says the “smooth form” they favour makes it easier to glance-off and keep sliding. Internal air flow management has been improved - riding induces air to the forehead area and cools it dramatically. The new visor shape is said to give a clearer view that is more comfortable for the eyes and offers even less distortion compared with the previous visor shape. The new interior is constructed from antimicrobial material with deodorant and anti-fouling function. The cheek pads and interior are fully replaceable and adjustable.
Urban-V
The new Arai Urban-V open-face helmet “blends classic style with cutting-edge Arai protection, comfort and ventilation technology - it is old school and new school all at once, a classic retro-style open-face helmet, rich in period details like traditional stitched faux leather edge trim and interior accents.
“It’s packed with modern technical features that enhance comfort and protection, like (hidden) interior ventilation and a rounded outer shell silhouette. The Urban-V is constructed from Peripherally Belted Complex Laminate Construction2 (PB-cLc2) with F1 technology, hiding a high-tech, one-piece multi-density EPS inner liner.
“The classic, rounder shape features timeless good looks and is also close to our philosophy that a stronger, smoother and rounder shape improves glancing-off performance while absorbing and spreading impact forces.
“Our proprietary (super fibre belt) Peripheral Belt, borrowed from the technology we put into our F1 helmets, helps increase shell strength and flexibility while maintaining low weight and a lower centre of gravity, aiding comfort on longer rides. Positioned across the top of the eye port, this band contributes to the use of a thinner EPS liner, which helps enhance the upward field of vision.
“A specially designed organic felt, sandwiched between the inner and outer layers of our proprietary Super Fibre Laminates, is used to reinforce and bond these two Super Fibre layers without adding significant weight”.
“Key to our philosophy of helmet construction is the use of a stronger outer shell allied to a softer interior liner that helps absorb and dissipate energy, acting much like the crumple zones built into a car. The Urban-V has both, and uses a high-tech, one-piece multi-density EPS liner with multi-stage venting channel in support of its PB-cLc2 shell”.
Profile-V
The Profile-V is a brand-new helmet from Arai. It has been designed for easier access on and off by widening the bottom opening at the front and sides, still offering the snug fit and the proven round shape unique to Arai, using the round and strong PB-e-cLc outer shell for impact “glance-off” and to spread impact forces while maintaining integrity - working with a softer, one-piece multi-density EPS inner liner to absorb and dissipate energy.
Incorporating the Arai Variable Axis System (VAS), a Hyper Ridge band reinforces the lower shell and a 5 mm flare around the base makes the Profile-V easier to get on and off. The VAS-V MAX Vision visor is Pinlock ready, and the optional Pro Shade System (PSS) can be fitted.
Additional features include full ventilation front and rear and a semi-removable interior featuring the Facial Contour System (FCS) of Arai’s range-topping helmets for a “super comfortable fit and ear pockets for speakers”.
ARAI HELMET (EUROPE)
www.araihelmet-europe.com
