Shoei or Nolan flip front?

**Pogo2** · 19th January 2014, 15:31

Been a Nolan fan for awhile now and just went to wash the liner and most of the foam has disintegrated. Had it (N102) since 2007/8 so I guess that is not too bad.

So I guess that it is time for a new helmet. I do like the flip face ones so want to continue on with this style.

So the question is Shoei Neotec or Nolan N104. I realise that it will come down to fit (as well as $$$ to a degree). I have a Boulevard C50 with a screen (if that makes any difference).

So before I part with some $$$ any recommendations and/or advice? I have had a search but wondered if anyone else has gone through a similar process. I have been happy with my 2 previous Nolan N's. Yes they are a bit noisy but I always wear ear plugs so that is not too much of an issue.

Other option is the Givi, but will have to do some research and look at the Sharp ratings as well.

Any advice appreciated. Thanks in advance!!

**Moi** · 19th January 2014, 16:03

I wear either a Nolan N103 and a Caberg Duke - of the two prefer the Nolan for commuting but the Caberg for touring...

With both helmets I use earplugs - eh?, what did you say? hearing loss has happened - and find I can still hear the important stuff = engine noise, traffic noise, sirens, and myself talking to myself

The Caberg has a 5-star rating from Sharp and is similar in sizing/shape to the Nolan.

My tuppence worth...

**george formby** · 19th January 2014, 16:03

Get a new lining for yer existing lid & spend the rest of the money on hookers & booze.

**RDJ** · 19th January 2014, 16:08

I have bought and used both on high mileage rides. FWIW - assuming that your head shape is equally happy / comfortable with both brands, I would recommend Shoei. Just my opinion of course.

- better (IMO) manufacturing / finishing standards
- easier visor changing for sunlight / darkness
- less noise
- better padding
- more secure flip mechanism
- works better with SENA SMH-10 ear speaker placement

I ditched the Nolan after 800 miles because it just never got comfortable and was always noisier. So YMMV.

I have never regretted buying Shoei (Multitech / Neotec) and I have had 3 in 6 years (after having to move from Arai because they (Arai) stopped making the shell that fitted me best).

Good luck with your search.

**Gremlin** · 19th January 2014, 19:20

Post I wrote comparing Multitec (previous gen Shoei) to N104: http://www.advrider.com/forums/showp...87&postcount=5

The Shoei is probably better quality, but costs more.

I have an N104 and I'm enjoying it (still have a Multitec). I haven't worn or used a Neotec.

The N104 works very well with a Sena SMH10R kit, a battery compartment at the rear of the helmet takes the battery and extra wiring. Space for speakers is part of the mold behing the padding. Cut out on the right side of eye port takes the boom mic and the whole setup looks very neat and professional. Only small problem is you do have to position the head of the unit slightly back from side on, due to the flip mechanism and slide on the left side bottom for the internal VPS.

The first slot when opening the visor is too far up, and with a massive visor, it makes it vibrate and flex, so mostly, I have it open or shut. There is a lock for the front being open, so no way for it to suddenly shut if you so wish. I'm used to dark visors, so I've replaced the clear visor with a light smoke, and then I can also use the VPS to get it to the right light level.

Another selling point for me was having it available in hi visibility yellow (and there is also orange).

**caspernz** · 20th January 2014, 08:26

Shoei Multitec and Neotec is what I've got. Wife got a Givi recently and that looks like a decent quality helmet as well, but you can definitely tell the difference of where the dollars went between a Shoei and a Givi.

Neotec is quieter that the Multitec, but then I wear earplugs for anything beyond going local.

Must say I like the integrated sunvisor of the Neotec, but heck nowadays lots of helmets have that feature.

Your choice would come down mostly to what you wanna spend I'd guess.

**Pogo2** · 21st January 2014, 16:04

Decided on the Nolan but no one had my size or the model (was after the Voyager).

Shop rang the distributor and was advised that they were not importing anymore as a newer N104 Evo was due in March.

So do I wait or do I go to Shoei? Shoei was so comfortable and is available ex stock so will think about it.

**ital916** · 21st January 2014, 21:10

Originally Posted by Pogo2

Decided on the Nolan but no one had my size or the model (was after the Voyager).

Shop rang the distributor and was advised that they were not importing anymore as a newer N104 Evo was due in March.

So do I wait or do I go to Shoei? Shoei was so comfortable and is available ex stock so will think about it.

Shoei. Push the budget, you won't regret a penny.

**Flip** · 22nd January 2014, 16:13

I have a Shoei flip. It actually fits my fat head.

**Pogo2** · 26th January 2014, 17:00

Decided on a Nolan (again). Picking it up on Tuesday. Liked the Shoei but $$$ where just too expensive.

As an aside - who was the first company to make flip up helmet? I guess they have been around now for 15 or so years.

**Pogo2** · 2nd February 2014, 07:59

Finally got to take the helmet for a ride and was extremely disappointed.

My old N102 performed significantly better.

At 65kph the visor regardless of position would slam shut, so there was no way that I could ride with the visor fully up. With the top vent open fully, the noise was unbearable. Turns out there was a fault with the visor mechanism so the helmet has been returned.

Took the Neotec for a test ride yesterday. The difference is night and day! The Shoei did always feel more comfortable than the N104. More plush and better fitting.

I found the Shoei better in so many ways.
Was quieter
Ventilation was extremely effective. At one point it got a bit too chilly.
Visibility was good, but I think the Nolan has the edge here
Visor has positive detents and stayed in the required position
Internal sun visor was great. Goes lower that the Nolan so has better coverage and you can move it to the depth suited rather than just up or down

Needless to say I added a few (make that a lot of) extra $$ and I get it later this week. It was a lot of cash but it does what is says on the box. Long term I'm sure I will be happy.

The trial helmet had a Bluetooth kit fitted, so this maybe the next acquisition!