Shoei XR1100

[Mikkel]

For the last 2 years I've sworn by my Shoei XR1000. I've especially been happy with the pinlock visor system. If there has been one point of annoyance with the helmet it would be the bead on the pinlock system sitting inside my field of view when riding sportsbikes due to the forward lean. Other than that the XR1000 ticked all the boxes.

Alas, due to unexpected circumstances I recently had to retire my old XR1000 and went out to get myself a new one... Then I noticed the new XR1100.

Compared to the XR1000 it is about $100 dearer but it comes with pinlock visor, pinlock insert and chin spoiler as standard. Also, the XR1100 does not have a whisper kit accessory since Shoei has redesigned how the helmet closes up against your neck. Seeing as I were going to spend at least another $100 to get the pinlock system for the XR1000 anyway I decided to try on the next generation.

I haven't travelled far since I got the new helmet, but here are my initial impressions:

-The field of vision in the XR1100 has been significantly improved compared to the old helmet.

-The pinlock insert bead is no longer visible from inside the helmet due to the redesigned visor system.

-The helmet feels lighter and more airy in comparison to the XR1000. Ventilation is excellent, the venting system has also been redesigned.

I can't comment upon wind noise yet since I haven't had an opportunity to get out of the city yet.

Anyway, if you like your XR1000 and need to buy a new helmet - the XR1100 won't disappoint!

[steve_t]

Where'd u get it from? Is there anywhere having any sales on these currently?

[Maha]

Awesome helmets for sure but we had a look at Insanity Rules helmet last week (cant remember the brand) and Mom would have tossed her XR aside and taken it given half a chance.

[ckai]

Anyway, if you like your XR1000 and need to buy a new helmet - the XR1100 won't disappoint!

which flavour did you get? I'm looking at one of these as well and wouldn't wanna uncool someones lid by getting the same 1 ;)


Where'd u get it from? Is there anywhere having any sales on these currently?

new model mate, you'll be very hard pressed to find one on sale unless a store is generous. the xr1000 are in runout if you want a cheaper one.

[sarahtvet]

Sounds like a good helmet. Love my XR1000 and don't need a new one yet but will certainly bear this in mind if I decide to change.

I would be really interested in your impression on the open road. The XR1000 has meant I can dispose of earplugs which is such a joy, wouldn't want to go back to them.

[Okey Dokey]

That is good to hear. Mr OD won't use his pinlock with the Shoei XR 1000 because of the beading in his sportbiker's line of vision. Nice to hear of a fault rectified, because he has had fogging issues with it. Happy riding.

[Mikkel]

Where'd u get it from? Is there anywhere having any sales on these currently?

I bought mine at Sportzone Suzuki in Chch. Just list price...


Awesome helmets for sure but we had a look at Insanity Rules helmet last week (cant remember the brand) and Mom would have tossed her XR aside and taken it given half a chance.

I don't know what his helmet is, but I'd say you'd be hard pressed to beat the XR1100 on value at ~$700 (IIRC) for a plain coloured one


which flavour did you get? I'm looking at one of these as well and wouldn't wanna uncool someones lid by getting the same 1 ;)

I went for a normal black one without any fancy graphics on. I can't see the point of throwing 200-300 bucks at a paint job. Especially seeing that the paintjob's main purpose is to camouflage any potential damage to the helmet surface.


That is good to hear. Mr OD won't use his pinlock with the Shoei XR 1000 because of the beading in his sportbiker's line of vision. Nice to hear of a fault rectified, because he has had fogging issues with it. Happy riding.

I wouldn't call it a fault, sub-optimal design for sure - but still vastly superior to having your visor fog up in poor weather conditions.

[Pumba]

I would be really interested in your impression on the open road. The XR1000 has meant I can dispose of earplugs which is such a joy, wouldn't want to go back to them.

Really? I love my XR1000 but quiet is far from somthing I would call it. I always wear ear plugs.

I do look foward to trying the XR1100 when the time comes

[Okey Dokey]

I wouldn't call it a fault, sub-optimal design for sure - but still vastly superior to having your visor fog up in poor weather conditions.

I didn't mean the pinlock was a fault, I meant the helmet ventilation wasn't adequate, so fogging was an issue/fault. His previous Shoei -don't remember the model- had no fogging problems. Sounds like Shoei have sorted it from your post.

[Devil]

Really? I love my XR1000 but quiet is far from somthing I would call it. I always wear ear plugs.

I do look foward to trying the XR1100 when the time comes

Ditto.
Xr1000 certainly not quiet and yeah I wouldn't mind an XR1100!

[crazyhorse]

Thanks, will look into it

[chester]

no good for me I have an Arai head. The Shoei just dont seem to fit... :wacko:

[gsx61]

Just bought a Shoei XR1100 and have done about 2,000 Kms, and I hate it.
I have always spent about $300 to $500 on my helmets as I tend to get a little bord with them and just want a change, but when I went to get a new hat, one of things I was looking for was large ear pockets to accommodate my big ears and helmet speakers, so sales guy immediately pointed me to the XR-1100, so I spent the extra given the brand a it reputation. Here are what I believe to be the pros and cons

1. Very light and extremely comfortable (3.5hrs at a time)
2. Large ear pockets
3. It is the noisiest helmet I have ever owned. Riding my GSXR in normal seating position it continuously whistles, turn your head to look at the speedo the pitch becomes higher. Duck under screen @ 110 kms and it has a drone like a very cheap exhaust
4. The visor does not displace water, it just sticks even at 120kms. I had to flip the visor up to clear the water. Water came on the inside (no Fun).

That’s just my opinion, have a great day

[quickbuck]

Just bought a Shoei XR1100 and have done about 2,000 Kms, and I hate it.
I have always spent about $300 to $500 on my helmets as I tend to get a little bord with them and just want a change, but when I went to get a new hat, one of things I was looking for was large ear pockets to accommodate my big ears and helmet speakers, so sales guy immediately pointed me to the XR-1100, so I spent the extra given the brand a it reputation. Here are what I believe to be the pros and cons

1. Very light and extremely comfortable (3.5hrs at a time)
2. Large ear pockets
3. It is the noisiest helmet I have ever owned. Riding my GSXR in normal seating position it continuously whistles, turn your head to look at the speedo the pitch becomes higher. Duck under screen @ 110 kms and it has a drone like a very cheap exhaust
4. The visor does not displace water, it just sticks even at 120kms. I had to flip the visor up to clear the water. Water came on the inside (no Fun).

That’s just my opinion, have a great day

Ummm,
IMHO, I think all those issues are actually related to your bike.

Get a double bubble screen, and it will sort them all.
The problem is actually the screen is deflecting air straight into your helmet.
This is where you have a choice to direct it into your chest, or over your head.

As for the rain sitting on your visor... well it does that when it isn't heavy enough.
You can put "Rain Away" or some such stuff on it... but I wouldn't.

The reason you didn't notice these problems with your old helmet is because you wern't scrutinising it so closley... The extra $$ you spent will make you more critical...

[Mikkel]

As for the rain sitting on your visor... well it does that when it isn't heavy enough.
You can put "Rain Away" or some such stuff on it... but I wouldn't.

...or one could just clean one's visor with Plexus. I sure don't have any trouble with rain sticking to the visor on my Shoeis.

[pritch]

I sure don't have any trouble with rain sticking to the visor on my Shoeis.

I've had two XR1000s and currently have three visors but have never had that problem either.

Did once have trouble with water on the inside of the visor because the screws had come loose leaving a gap at the top. A gentle tweak with a screw driver sorted that.

[steve_t]

Hey Mikkel, how are you finding the wind noise?

[BoristheBiter]

Just bought a Shoei XR1100 and have done about 2,000 Kms, and I hate it.
I have always spent about $300 to $500 on my helmets as I tend to get a little bord with them and just want a change, but when I went to get a new hat, one of things I was looking for was large ear pockets to accommodate my big ears and helmet speakers, so sales guy immediately pointed me to the XR-1100, so I spent the extra given the brand a it reputation. Here are what I believe to be the pros and cons

1. Very light and extremely comfortable (3.5hrs at a time)
2. Large ear pockets
3. It is the noisiest helmet I have ever owned. Riding my GSXR in normal seating position it continuously whistles, turn your head to look at the speedo the pitch becomes higher. Duck under screen @ 110 kms and it has a drone like a very cheap exhaust
4. The visor does not displace water, it just sticks even at 120kms. I had to flip the visor up to clear the water. Water came on the inside (no Fun).

That’s just my opinion, have a great day

its the same with the x-sprite.

it would have to be the most comfortable helmet i have worn and it is also good with side winds as my head doesn't move around much but god the noise.

without the pinlock system it would completly fog up as the airflow is not as good as my old HJC but it does keep it cooler in summer.

to get away from the water sticking to the visor, the water proofing that it came with is crap, i spray it with Pledge. not the best but it still works better than not.

i thought it was just me but it seems, with all the coments that the helmets are not what they are cracked up to be.

[BoristheBiter]

Ummm,
IMHO, I think all those issues are actually related to your bike.

The reason you didn't notice these problems with your old helmet is because you wern't scrutinising it so closley... The extra $$ you spent will make you more critical...

my hjc was not this noisey but it got blowin around a lot and if you spend more money on a helmet you should be more critical.
mine is a good helmet (x-sprite) but about half the cost is name.

[rie]

after writing off my xr1000 i downgraded to Raid II as a cheaper option, but this was a big mistake. It was only after I got the Raid that I came to realise the pure awesomeness of the XR1000. There is a significant difference in the wind noise, aerodynamics and comfort. The Raid is a good helmet, but I wish I had the extra money to buy the xr1000 or xr1100. And my point is thus: although I have never test-ridden the XR1100 it takes the best of the xr1000 and makes it even better. The shoei-faithful should definitely invest in the xr1100 (or the x-spirit II when they come out - they come with an emergency release that reduces risk of injury when taking a helmet off a fallen rider, among other value-added awesomeness). It may seem as though half the cost is the brand name and yes, branding plays a part - but at high speeds things like aerodynamics will make an enormous difference and you will be glad that you bought shoei (don't get me wrong; there are other brilliant helmets out there that showcase different strengths and therefore reflect in the cost accordingly)

[Mikkel]

Hey Mikkel, how are you finding the wind noise?

Since I am currently recovering from a shoulder injury I haven't done much riding, and no open-road riding at all. In fact today is the first day I've commuted to work on my bike for over a month. As such I haven't tried going much faster than "a tad over 60" and wind noise just isn't much of any issue at those speeds.

[BoristheBiter]

after writing off my xr1000 i downgraded to Raid II as a cheaper option, but this was a big mistake. It was only after I got the Raid that I came to realise the pure awesomeness of the XR1000. There is a significant difference in the wind noise, aerodynamics and comfort. The Raid is a good helmet, but I wish I had the extra money to buy the xr1000 or xr1100. And my point is thus: although I have never test-ridden the XR1100 it takes the best of the xr1000 and makes it even better. The shoei-faithful should definitely invest in the xr1100 (or the x-spirit II when they come out - they come with an emergency release that reduces risk of injury when taking a helmet off a fallen rider, among other value-added awesomeness). It may seem as though half the cost is the brand name and yes, branding plays a part - but at high speeds things like aerodynamics will make an enormous difference and you will be glad that you bought shoei (don't get me wrong; there are other brilliant helmets out there that showcase different strengths and therefore reflect in the cost accordingly)

Don't get me wrong i love my helmet as i have been back and forward to wellywood a few times now and you forget that you are wearing it and aerodynamics do make an enormous difference but the noise is someting else and it gets worse if i open the vents.
I will just have to get a better set of earplugs.

[gizmo]

Just got myself an XR1100. Plain in silver, don't see the point on graphic's for another $200 for other's to enjoy.
Ventalation look like a nice peice of work and I like the pin lock visor, as well as the spring to pull the visor onto the seals.:cool:
Coming off a 16year RF700, this helmet is along way from the old one so will take some time to get used to.
Have not been for a ride with the helmet yet thanks to the wonderful summer that we are having, but will let you know what I think when I do.:woohoo:

[cc rider]

Just got myself an XR1100.... this helmet is along way from the old one so will take some time to get used to.Good one gizmo. I'm thinking it will take no time at all to get used to. The sign of a good fitting helmet will be, not noticing it while you're riding. Will look forward to hearing what ya reckon though. :)

[saul]

It feels a little heaver than my old xr1000. The Vent system is better, not so much buffiting with the wind, vision is a huge improvement, whisper kit helps with the noise ( I still wear earplugs) , very nice upgrade.:yes:

Must have graphics to be part of the poseur crew.

[gizmo]

Ok. so went out for a ride with the new XR1100 helmet today.:drool:
Fit as spot on. No pressure pointsanywhere, was a little concerned about the forhead area but no problem.:banana:
Only went for a small ride with my wife 180km's so fit will get better as time wares on.
Ventilation system of the helmet is great."after the rf700" anyway. Found that opening the vents on the head not the eaisest while on the move but will get better as I get used to it.:cool:
Noise is intersting one. With all the vents open it is a little noisy as can be expected.
The vent on the chin made the most noise as it was an annoying whistle when open.
The noise was never exessive and was much quieter than my old loose rf700 so never felt the need to us ear plugs.
All vents worked well and made a differance to the comfort of the helmet.:cool:
I noticed that I didn't get a lot of buffiting with the new lid very "smooth" untill I started sight seeing then it was a little worse than the old one, not much, but I noticed it. This is, I suspect, due to the fact that the XR1100 is longer and a differant shape than the old one. best to look were you are going instead of were you've been and problem solved.:2thumbsup
No visablity issue's with the pin lock visor on this lid. will be intersting to see what it is like riding at night as I can see the edge of the pin lock visor in the corner of my eye. Time will till.

Over all this is a major step up from the old RF and a worthy replacement.
So very happy with my purchase.:rolleyes:

[cc rider]

Nice write up gizmo.

Based purely on graphics I'd like this(XR1000), but the only small I can find seems to be in England... plus $ too much :doh:

[ckai]

Ok. so went out for a ride with the new XR1100 helmet today.:drool:
Fit as spot on. No pressure pointsanywhere, was a little concerned about the forhead area but no problem.:banana:
Only went for a small ride with my wife 180km's so fit will get better as time wares on.
Ventilation system of the helmet is great."after the rf700" anyway. Found that opening the vents on the head not the eaisest while on the move but will get better as I get used to it.:cool:
Noise is intersting one. With all the vents open it is a little noisy as can be expected.
The vent on the chin made the most noise as it was an annoying whistle when open.
The noise was never exessive and was much quieter than my old loose rf700 so never felt the need to us ear plugs.
All vents worked well and made a differance to the comfort of the helmet.:cool:
I noticed that I didn't get a lot of buffiting with the new lid very "smooth" untill I started sight seeing then it was a little worse than the old one, not much, but I noticed it. This is, I suspect, due to the fact that the XR1100 is longer and a differant shape than the old one. best to look were you are going instead of were you've been and problem solved.:2thumbsup
No visablity issue's with the pin lock visor on this lid. will be intersting to see what it is like riding at night as I can see the edge of the pin lock visor in the corner of my eye. Time will till.

Over all this is a major step up from the old RF and a worthy replacement.
So very happy with my purchase.:rolleyes:




Cheers mate. You're really making me want to take mine out now.


Just got myself an XR1100. Plain in silver, don't see the point on graphic's for another $200 for other's to enjoy.

Must have graphics to be part of the poseur crew.

See, I'm so cool I got graphics AND an gold iridium visor. I am so the man :cool: haha

[cc rider]

Cheers mate. You're really making me want to take mine out now. haha...with or without your helmet on :gob:


This is why 8 out of 10 bikers choose to wear dark tint visors :blip:

[quickbuck]

Okay,
Filled my XR800 up with Dirt in the weekend...
So Dan from Motorad is getting me a new Metallic Grey XR1100.....

Can't wait. RIP XR800... It has done me well for far too long.... (XR900 was released back in 2001!).
Yes, I have gone all the way from 90 to 120kg and back again... so the padding isn't even tight anymore.

I'm sure i will notice the improvement straight away, and wonder why I have been such a tight ass all this time!

Will report after first big ride, and that will be to Round 4 of PMCC.

[quickbuck]

Okay,
Report of helmet EARLY:

Rode down to Waikanae with my old XR800, to meet up with my brand spanking new XR1100.... Long story as to why it was in Waikanae, but that is for another time... Or not!

Anyhow, after opening the box, and having a play, I put it on to head back home.
Light? Yes. Same weight as the XR800, but really feels lighter.. Better C of G I would say.
Vision... Much better, and that is more than just a clean visor!
Double D rings.. Will take a while to get used to them again.... But better than the clip that I only adjusted when it got really slack!!! Yes, I'm slack!

Ventilation Great....

BUT. The NOISE! I realise there has to be noise with ventilation, but heck this whistles more than an Avery full of cockatoos!

I take back what I said earlier about it being the bike causing it... It isn't.

There is comfort in the fact that the helmet doesn't blow around as much due to the wind tunnel testing.
But obviously the wind tunnel dummy didn't have ears!

Oh well, will have to get used to ear plugs... Should have been wearing them anyway.

One thing I really love... The Visor system. The little black thing doubles as a lock.
It used to just keep it ajar on the XR800, but now locks too.... Wonderful.
The ratchet seems lighter, so I'm guessing there is a very good reason for the lock.

Over all, I think it is an improvement on the XR800 at least... And it was less expencive from memory. XR800 was $750 on special back in 2001.

[Pussy]

Agree with quickbuck re the XR800... was the quietest Shoei I've had, too.
Just recently got an XR1000 run out to replace my six year old X-Spirit..... earplugs are a must now!

[quickbuck]

Agree with quickbuck re the XR800... was the quietest Shoei I've had, too.


I guess we have been spoilt then......
Oh well,
A nice day out...
New rubber both ends (400 miles on the rear, and 130 miles on the front.. for you nanas who say be careful!), Near new pads on the front....
New helmet.... Time to find the twisties and get rid of the Metezler Elephant on the edges ;)

[steve_t]

Quickbuck, have you tried adjusting the visor? A lot of early reports said there was loud whistling coming from the visor and a quick tweek to the ratchet system was all that was required to sort it out. I'm still looking at getting an 1100 so interested to see if you can reduce the wind noise
Cheers. Hope u showed them twisties what's what :niceone:

[quickbuck]

Quickbuck, have you tried adjusting the visor? A lot of early reports said there was loud whistling coming from the visor and a quick tweek to the ratchet system was all that was required to sort it out. I'm still looking at getting an 1100 so interested to see if you can reduce the wind noise
Cheers. Hope u showed them twisties what's what :niceone:
Will have a look at adjusting the (now apparently automatic) visor system, and see if that makes a difference.

Out for another ride today.. only about 35 k, but it seems I'm getting used to the noise... OR, it that I'm going deaf?? I didn't put plugs in.

Yes, I really gave it to the twisties.... LOVE the new tyres!

[Grumpy]

I've ridden with Arai's for around 12 or so years now and think they are the bees knees but the visors are really crap. They never seal properly and changing them makes me break out in a cold sweat thinking I might break that side cover thingy. Time for a new helmet so I thought I'd give the XR1100 a go.

Not bad. Nearly as comfy as the Arai but definately as noisy but then I've always used earplugs on a long ride so that isn't really an issue. Love the visor. I never realised just how bad the Arai one was until I tried this one. The other thing I noticed was the stability in the wind. My bike doesn't have alot in wind protection so buffeting is a fact of life on a ride but the XR1100 is much easier on the neck. All in all, a good buy.

[quickbuck]

The other thing I noticed was the stability in the wind. My bike doesn't have alot in wind protection so buffeting is a fact of life on a ride but the XR1100 is much easier on the neck. All in all, a good buy.
At the end of the day, this too would reduce rider fatigue... and that is a good thing.

I'm glad you like the new lid :)

[NZsarge]

I've ridden with Arai's for around 12 or so years now and think they are the bees knees but the visors are really crap. They never seal properly and changing them makes me break out in a cold sweat thinking I might break that side cover thingy. Time for a new helmet so I thought I'd give the XR1100 a go.
Interesting, i've had a couple of different models of Arai now (RX7 GP and a Chaser) and not had any issues with the visors what so ever, changing them is easy as once you get your head around how to do it, there are plenty of videos on YouTube for instruction

Not bad. Nearly as comfy as the Arai but definately as noisy but then I've always used earplugs on a long ride so that isn't really an issue. Love the visor. I never realised just how bad the Arai one was until I tried this one. The other thing I noticed was the stability in the wind. My bike doesn't have alot in wind protection so buffeting is a fact of life on a ride but the XR1100 is much easier on the neck. All in all, a good buy.
Interesting comment about the buffeting, I agree this might be an area where the Arai is not the best out there, due to unfortunate issues i'm in the market for a new helmet, i'll probably stick with the RX7 GP but there is a new Arai coming out soon which is placed just below the GP which is more road orientated but has 95% of the GP's features. The other Helmet i'd like a closer look at is the new X12 Shoei but the graphic I really like they don't have in stock at the moment.

[Grumpy]

Don't get me wrong. The RX7 is a great lid. I could wear mine all day with no discomfort whatsoever. My issues with the visor are more to do with the seal or lack of it. I guess I got used to it in the end but when I took the Shoei for a test ride it really bought it home. I had the same issues with both my Arai's.

I have to admit the hefty price tag is another reason why a new RX7 wasn't on my shopping list. :crazy:

[vifferman]

Whelp, I love my XR1000, and its paintwork conicidentally matches the bikes perfectly for colour. However (but!) I apparently bought it in July 2007 or thereabouts on specail at Motomail, and having commuted with it most days for that time, it's tired. the strap covers (which Whites don't stock) are worn and ripped, and the vinyl round the bottom is flaking. It also stinks of perspiration and zorst fumes, and apparently the only way to clean it is to immerse the whole lid in warm soapy water. So... working practically next door to Motomail, I went shopping for a new lid. Most of the 2012 models were on display, but the one I wanted wasn't in stock, and wouldn't be until mid-January, and even then, they couldn't promise that either of the two on order weren't already assigned to customers. Bummer...
So.... last week I bought an XR1100 Bradley, for $799, plus some extra shekeldollars for a dark-tinted visor. The paintwork freaks my wife out, because the stylised Union Jack on it looks like it has a white coffin with a cross on the top of the helmet. I pointed out that I couldn't see it anyway, so it didn't matter, and the extra red and white on the helmet makes it stand out more than the mostly blue'n'black of the XR1000.
272915

Despite being offered a test ride before I bought it (only the second time ever this has happened in 38 years of motorcyling!) - which I declined - this morning was the first road test.
First impression (apart from the new helmet snugness and new helmet plasticky smell) was it seems to be missing the "flick the lever to open the visor a crack" of the XR1000. Leastways, it does something but there isn't a small visible gap at the bottom, so maybe it just pops the visor off the seal. Cetainly, once I got up to sub-warpspeed, it started to whistle like air was coming in, butd locking the visor killed that. Interestingly though, despite the visor being locked closed, ventilation was moar betterer, with the chin vent open. The latter now has three positions: closed, open-a-crack, and open. There are now four rear zorst vents, and these do an admirable job of pulling air through the shell of the helmet via the venturi effect.
Secondly, it's differently noisy to the XR1000 - less wind rustle, but sort of a low booming noise. Now, the XR1000 has less space around the chinbar, and mine has been fitted with a chin curtain (which comes standard in the box with the XR1100), so this is understandable.
Another reason for more 'boominess' may be that the XR1100 now seems to be designed to allow for intercom systems (and there's some conjecture on teh interwebz that maybe Shoei are venturing into this arena). There are now perfectly formed earcups in the appropriate positions, so rather than having padding up around your earholes, there are now earhole earholes. This may allow some external noise to filter in.
The small rear spoiler on the XR1000 has now morphed into a boiRacr one, extending out at the bottom of the rear of the helmet shell by nearly 20mm, to aid stability at warpspeed. Coupled with a redesigned shell shape, this should be a boon for racers, but whether it makes a significant difference for riding at legal speeds is unlikely. The tacked-on plastic splier for the rear vents on the XR100 has now become a moulded-in feature of the XR1100.
The new model feels very light, but has actually put on some weight (muscle?), to the tune of about 120-135g, depending on the shell size. Part of this may be due to the New! Improved!! visor mechanism, which uses gears'n'springs'n'magic to pull the visor tight onto the rubber seal. The rest is due to added material to aid it in meeting the rigorous Snell Foundation standards
The XR1100 is more of a 'premium' helmet than the XR1000: it has pinlock visors as standard, fully removable (and washable [and replacable]) lining, and just reeks of <s>plastic</s> quality. I've already checked, and unless I fall on my noggin (which I've done only once since 1973, and that was at a near standstill), I should be able to keep this helmet longer than 5-and-a-bit years, as Shoei keep spares for 10 years, so I can replace the lining and strap covers in a few years time.

NekMinnit: Fitting the Sena SMH10 Bluetooth Intercom, and using it with the SM10 Bluetooth Stereo Transmitter. Stay tuned...

[vifferman]

My ideal was to buy a system that would enable the vifferbabe and I to communicate while riding, and to also listen to music if we so desired. Another useful option would be to be able to take hands-free phone calls, although because we aren't exactly social animals, this wasn't hugely important. Complicating things was the fact that we have two different helmets: my XR1100, and the vifferbabe's very basic Raid, which has non-removable padding, and no recesses for speakers. Further lack of flexibility was caused by Sena not selling a system that would accomodate various fitments. Overseas (yonder), one can buy the SMH10 with the bluetooth units and either the 'normal' speakers + boom microphone fitted to the base unit, or bluetooth units with the plug-in mikes (boom or wired), plus a socket for headphones. Here only the first kit is available, with various single options for the base unit. Ideally (and user / potential user demand may see this introduced soon) would be a system where the base plate has only sockets fitted, and you buy whatever options of microphone and speakers or earplugs you want to fit to it, either Sena or aftermarket.
Even more complicating is that I find decision-making hard, and didn't want to consult the pillion about this because it would likely be an emotional rather than rational discussion. Soap, I ordered a Sena SMH10 twin-pack (with the boom mike / speakers), two single base units (for plug-in earbuds, and with two microphone options), and an SM10 (for dual stream bluetooth stereo transmission). Plenty of redundancy, and probably not the most sensible overall buy from an economic point of view. It means that at least one (possibly two) base unit with the boom mike and speakers may ultimately be unused, or maybe one of the other base units. Either way, some parts and money are wasted. I also had in mind that I would try the boom + speakers + noise-attenuating earplugs option, and swap to wired microphone + earbuds if that didn't work. Ideally I wanted to be able to put my helmet on and take it off with minimum drama, as I commute twice daily. I also had in mind that maybe the vifferbabe would decide she'd like a more betterer helmet, so we could buy another XR1100 and fit both with the same setup, so needed some flexible options.

I spent a good deal of time fondling all the bits, reading the literature, re-reading the reviews on Webbikeworld. I was amazed at how small the units were, and at the high quality (which I guess you'd expect, given the price they sell for here!). Then much monkeying around with the mounting brackets was done, to see whether they would even fit.
There are two fitting options:

A plastic base bracket, which is thin plastic, rather flimsy, and which has a very thin adhesive strip. Allen bolts are screwed through this into the base unit mounting plate.
Several users and testers had said the thin plastic bracket is was prone to coming adrift.
A metal clamp piece with a rubber backing, that is wriggled in between the helmet shell and the EPS padding. This is then fastened with the allen screws to the base unit plate (which also has a rubber pad), clamping the helmet shell between the two parts. I thought it may be too thick, and had toyed with using one of the spare fittings, removing the rubber pad to make it thinner, then grinding the metal down to make it thinner still.


The fitting looked problematic for the above reasons, and because the robust metal bracket plates were not thin, but the crack between shell and liners was. Also, these units are desinged to go on the left side of a helmet, which means potential interference with the Shoei visor locking / cracking open lever.
Because the XR1100 has a rather thick rubber trim at the bottom, I had doubts that the first plastic bracket would sit far enough out to clear this. I was also not completely happy about the strength of it. Neither option was looking great, plus I had visions of being able to pop the units on and off the helmets easily, without fussing with the wires, clamps, etc. So, I'd ordered some 3M Dual-Lock, with the idea of potentially being able to simply pop them on and off the helmets with minimum fuss. The idea was this could go on either bracket, if I removed rubber pads, or replaced the thin adhesive strip on the plastic bracket.
As it turned out, the Dual Lock was a no-show [turned up Monday morning] so I took a deep breath, and had a go at using the metal brackets (Sena's preferred mounting option).

[Maha]

Was tha you in Motomail on Saturday?...Anne bought the same model helmet, wasn't looking to spend that much, but what a stunning helmet.
I got me Urban Camos though...:corn:

[vifferman]

Was tha you in Motomail on Saturday?...Anne bought the same model helmet, wasn't looking to spend that much, but what a stunning helmet.
I got me Urban Camos though...:corn:
No, I bought it on Wednesday or Thursday the previous week. I now wish I'd bought the Skeet in green; I wanted it in blue, but they're not turning up until mid January, and may be already spoken for. I like the one I've got, but the missus reckons it's got a coffin on the top! :shit: I told her I can't see it, but she don't like it, nosirreee...

[Jezxa]

I don't like my XR1100. I wear it because it seems to be the only thing that actually fits me properly but compared to my Shark RSX its very noisy and the visor system is inferior.
Its quite a noisy helmet and I find it whistles like a mother at anything over 80ish kmh. The visor fogs up a lot in colder weather but in its defense I haven't used a pinlock insert yet.
My next helmet will definitively be another Shark if I can find one that fits my oval head-shape. The Speed-R looks very nice but if it doesn't fit it I could maybe try a different Shoei like the X-spirit 2 but $1100+ seems a bit excessive for a helmet.

[Maha]

I don't like my XR1100. I wear it because it seems to be the only thing that actually fits me properly but compared to my Shark RSX its very noisy and the visor system is inferior.
Its quite a noisy helmet and I find it whistles like a mother at anything over 80ish kmh. The visor fogs up a lot in colder weather but in its defense I haven't used a pinlock insert yet.
My next helmet will definitively be another Shark if I can find one that fits my oval head-shape. The Speed-R looks very nice but if it doesn't fit it I could maybe try a different Shoei like the X-spirit 2 but $1100+ seems a bit excessive for a helmet.

It comes with a pinlock insert...salesman put it for Anne at the counter.

[steve_t]

I don't like my XR1100. I wear it because it seems to be the only thing that actually fits me properly but compared to my Shark RSX its very noisy and the visor system is inferior.
Its quite a noisy helmet and I find it whistles like a mother at anything over 80ish kmh. The visor fogs up a lot in colder weather but in its defense I haven't used a pinlock insert yet.
My next helmet will definitively be another Shark if I can find one that fits my oval head-shape. The Speed-R looks very nice but if it doesn't fit it I could maybe try a different Shoei like the X-spirit 2 but $1100+ seems a bit excessive for a helmet.

The Pinlock insert is the best anti-fogging system hands down. If you're getting a whistle at speed you might need to adjust the visor mechanism as it's designed to pull the visor snugly against the helmet when fully closed. I think there was a batch where they needed adjusting from factory :crazy: Does it even happen when you have the visor "locked"?

[BoristheBiter]

I don't like my XR1100. I wear it because it seems to be the only thing that actually fits me properly but compared to my Shark RSX its very noisy and the visor system is inferior.
Its quite a noisy helmet and I find it whistles like a mother at anything over 80ish kmh. The visor fogs up a lot in colder weather but in its defense I haven't used a pinlock insert yet.
My next helmet will definitively be another Shark if I can find one that fits my oval head-shape. The Speed-R looks very nice but if it doesn't fit it I could maybe try a different Shoei like the X-spirit 2 but $1100+ seems a bit excessive for a helmet.

Shoei are the nosiest helmets I have ever used, but on saying that they are the most comfortable I have ever used.

I have the XS2 and would highly recommend it. the biggest thing is at high speeds you can move your head around without it being blown off due to the wind and also when riding in very windy conditions it doesn't get blown around like others do.

[imdying]

I don't notice any whistling in mine... possibly because I'm not crazy enough to ride without ear plugs!

[Maha]

Shoei are the nosiest helmets I have ever used, but on saying that they are the most comfortable I have ever used.

I have the XS2 and would highly recommend it. the biggest thing is at high speeds you can move your head around without it being blown off due to the wind and also when riding in very windy conditions it doesn't get blown around like others do.

I just sing louder.

[BoristheBiter]

I just sing louder.

is that what that noise is.:innocent:

[vifferman]

I just sing louder.
... or turn up the music and sing along to it.
Had a bit of a fettling session last night. Where the Sena headset was mounted the rubber trim on the helmet is a bit thick, angling the bracket so it was tight against the helmet. This meant that the clip for the unit didn't work well, not clicking into place well. I took the metal bracket off, beat it with a hammer a bit so it wasn't so bent, and after a couple of these panelbeating sessions I ended up with 2-3mm between the backof the unit's clamp and the helmet shell. (Need some photos here, as this doesn't make much sense in words). I don't think I will be using the DualLock option, unless I go with the wired miscrophone + earbuds option.

This morning I was going to wear my stinky old XR1000 again like I did yesterday, but after all the feedling getting the Sena headset set up OK last night, decided to use the XR1100 instead.
So, this morning, I fired up the music player on the N8, stuck it in my jacket pocket, turned on the Sena, and away we go. It was weird riding along with the N8 playing random songs, underpinned by the whine of the cam gears and snarl of the Satantune. Not too distracting, but it kind of made me feel a bit like I was in my own personal bubble. The sound quality was pretty good despite a little wind noise and the V4 song, with just the very odd crackle. A couple of times the music cut out momentarily, which I suspect may have been due to other vehicles' handsfree kits (?). Once I went to change the volume and accidentally pushed the jog control in as I turned it, which made it change tracks. No-one phoned me, so I didn't get to experience how that was handled.
I had the chin curtain fitted, which I didn't on the inaugural ride, and it cut out some of the faint booming previously noted.
Overall, a good road test, albeit only at speeds briefly up to about 100 km/h.

About whistling of the XR1100: I've found that if I have the little visor lever NOT locked, it whistles slightly, as this is actually making the visor infinitesimally ajar. Quite different to the XR1000, where I could ride with it open to the first position, and it would only whistle if I turned my head. I almost never locked the visor on that. If I have things right, the 'locked' position on the XR1100 forces the visor in tight, so if adjusted right it shouldn't whistle at all.

I really like both Shoei helmets, as they fit my head well, are comfortable, the visors are easy to change and adjust, and they are well designed. I've found only one other helmet that fits like this, and that is the Arai RX7 (?) which is considerably dearer, and has that crappy shield mechanism. Before the XR1000, I had a series of AGV helmets (3), before realising that my head isn't quite the right shape, and that Italian engineering isn't up to the same standard as Japanese. Prior to that, I had a crappy secondhand FFM, and a couple of Star helmets before that.

[Jezxa]

The Pinlock insert is the best anti-fogging system hands down. If you're getting a whistle at speed you might need to adjust the visor mechanism as it's designed to pull the visor snugly against the helmet when fully closed. I think there was a batch where they needed adjusting from factory :crazy: Does it even happen when you have the visor "locked"?

I never really ride with it locked but Ill give it a try. Might have a go at tightening up the visor as well if that makes a difference.

[vifferman]

Dunno why I resisted getting one for so long.
The XR1100's visors come with Pinlock fittings as standard, making me go "Grrrrrr..." when considering the helmet. However, the salesdude talked me into fitting one when I bought the helmet, and kindly fitted it and gave me a discount on it and the tinted visor. However (but!) on Tuesday, it decided to be all thunderstormy and shit, and I realised two (2) things:

I had all my wet-weather gear (yay!) because I was too lazy to take them outta my tank bag, but because I decided it would be fine'n'sunny, I'd worn my vented summer gloves (distinctly not waterproof).
Because it was <s>precisp...</s> pre.. <s>precipimi..</s> pissing down with rain, and I wasn't sure if having the vents open to reduce fogging would fill the helmet with water, turning it into a mobile goldfish bowl (probably sans goldfish), it would probably fog up badly if I instead left the visor clamped shut.
I had the tinted (non-pinlocked) visor because my illogical logic was that despite wearing a tinted visor most of the year round, it would be moar betterer to have the pinlock fitted to the clear visor. :facepalm: Which of course was at home.:crazy:

Hmmmm... what to do... what to do...
Of course! Get one of those as yet untried and unproven Pinlock thingies fitted! So, off I trotted in the rain, clutching my shiny new helmet, up the road to Motomail, where I asked the friendly Motomaildude to fit a pinlock to my tinted visor, which he did, while I blathered on about all sorts of crap. Then trotted back to work in the rain, girded my loins with bike gear, bunged on all my wet-weather gear over my leathers over my work clothes :crazy:, climbed on my motovelocipede, and trundled a few metres down the road into the mobile chicanery. (Why is it that everyone seems to leave work at the same moment in time when it's raining?) [Why do dumbarse car drivers all pile into an intersection, already clogged by non-moving traffic? I'm sure there's summat in the road laws about not entering an intersection unless you're certain of egress from said piece of tarmac?] So - there I was, stuck in heavy traffic, in the now distinctly non-raining weather.:wacko:

Impressions:
Very hot, with three layers of gear.
The visor, despite being clamped more shut than a nervous virgin's knees, and despite me being very warm because of the vents and visor being shut, was most definitely non-fogged.
The view through a couple of inches of steamy atmosphere, a pinlock, and a dark-tinted visor, was extraordinarily clear.
Hot. Very hot. Must ride around, through, over traffic - get some air movements.

[imdying]

Dunno why I resisted getting one for so long.Same as me probably... how could anything so simple be as awesome as everybody makes out... I'm still looking for the catch!

[vifferman]

This mooning, I tried the new hemblet again, and also the Sena (of course - it's attached to the hemblet). :facepalm:
This time, instead of using the N8, I charged the Walkman, plugged that into the SM10, turned both on, chucked it in my tankbag, and headed off, with the sound cranked up so the VFR tune was just a vague background symphony. It all worked splendidly once again, but this time there was no interruption whatsoever, so maybe using the N8 as a music source causes some cellphone network trickery to be happening. Whatever - it's alleviated the sameole/sameole of commuting the same route every day, and the VFR is running splendidly well since GeorgeTheMotorcycleDoctor did his thang. Still haven't sorted out if I'll persist with the headphones in the helmet, or try my earbuds and the mike-on-a-wire. I should really test that too, see which is moar betterer.

[FruitLooPs]

Going to have to try this visor locking business, lost my XR1000 a good while back (don't ask :bash: ) and went the XR1100 when they first came out, its definitely louder :pinch: (which pissed me off to no end when they pitched it as an ultimate sport touring helmet) but the pinlock is awesome and its comfy as. I've started to use earplugs, which help a whole heap :yes:

[steve_t]

Going to have to try this visor locking business, lost my XR1000 a good while back (don't ask :bash: ) and went the XR1100 when they first came out, its definitely louder :pinch: (which pissed me off to no end when they pitched it as an ultimate sport touring helmet) but the pinlock is awesome and its comfy as. I've started to use earplugs, which help a whole heap :yes:

I think the Qwest is the 'sport touring' helmet. The XR1100 is the racing/road sport version which is definitely louder due to the vents. The Qwest is very quiet IMHO

[CHOPPA]

Shoei are the nosiest helmets I have ever used, but on saying that they are the most comfortable I have ever used.

I have the XS2 and would highly recommend it. the biggest thing is at high speeds you can move your head around without it being blown off due to the wind and also when riding in very windy conditions it doesn't get blown around like others do.

Have you owned an Arai or Suomi?

[BoristheBiter]

Have you owned an Arai or Suomi?

No as I don't fit Arai, never tried on suomi.