REVIEWED: 2017 Arai Chaser X
#arai #motorbikes #helmet #drivetribe #bikethrottle #bikes #chaserX
I recently picked up Arai's all-new for 2017 Chaser X - here are my initial thoughts after a few hundred miles of using it.
FIT
I've owned scores of Arai helmets over the years, and this latest Chaser is very similar in fit to the old one. It's good to know sizing is consistent, especially for prospective buyers who purchase online.
Perfect colour scheme for any JPS Norton fans
visor system
Arai's old visor system was like Marmite to most people. You either loved the simplicity or hated the way it worked. Just as I got used to the old system, Arai introduced a new way of doing things. Again, once you get used to it it's very simple and the visor glides smoothly just like an Arai should.
That visor is also very wide in aperture, making it feel like you don't actually have a helmet on at all. It's certainly the widest visor view I've experienced.
Arai has loads of new Chaser X designs for 2017 as well as some classics
weight
The latest Chaser X is not the lightest helmet around. At 1620 grams (medium) it's at the heavier end of the scale compared to most of the carbon fibre offerings on the market. My previous HJC Rpha 10+ was 1300g and the difference is noticeable. The added comfort and quietness of the Arai counteracts the added weight though and it's the perfect helmet for distance work.
Safety
Hopefully it's not something I'll ever need to test myself, but the Chaser X has inherited the variable axis system from the more expensive RX7 model which is said to increase impact protection. Many racers also use the Chaser as it's a more affordable alternative to the rather expensive top-of-the-range examples in the Arai range.
The Chaser has gained a cult following from diehard Arai fans over the years. It's seen by many as the perfect combination of value for money, comfortable fit and quietness over distance. The latest X model is another steady evolution for the range that fans of the brand will be sure to love.
Update for 2019 - a new paintjob!
I decided the black and silver needed sprucing up a tad, so had a custom paintjob added to it, in memorial of Gus Scott who used the same colour scheme.
Price : From £399 (plain colours)
www.whyarai.co.uk
evolution of arai's top quality chaser range
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Comments (4)
People are making mistake when they say that Arai is heavy. They are heavy on numbers, but very very light on head, because they have absolutely different (from all other helmets on market) center of gravity when helmet is on head. And also higher weight for helmet is always a benefit when looking to safety.
The last paragraph isn't technically true. Rotational G forces on impact favour a lighter helmet. In short - a lighter helmet that doesn't compromise strength is less likely to break your neck
Hi,
thats why Arai gives so much attention for glancing of properties.
Love the colin edwards replica helmet they made