Shoei has updated its GT-Air touring helmet with a longer internal sun visor, better venting and more aerodynamics to make it quieter.
The GT-Air II will be available in April. Australian pricing is not yet available, but in the USA it will cost $US599 (about $A840) for single colours and $US699 (about $A980) for graphics.
Perhaps to make way for the new model, current GT-Air helmets are on sale in Australia from $790 to $883 depending on graphics.
GT-Air a polular tourer
Shoei motorcycle helmets are the most trusted in Australia and the GT-Air has long been popular among tourers who ride all day and into the night.
The GT-Air II model should improve on that status.
Aussie riders will appreciate that the internal sun visor is now 5mm longer for improved glare protection.
Shoei has also redesigned the main visor so it has a “first position” opening for better venting and to prevent fogging. However, it also comes with a Pinlock EVO anti-fog insert.
Tourers often fit bluetooth intercom units to their helmet and the GT-Air II now has a special recess on the base to fit the new Sena SRL2 unit.
Another new addition is a micro-ratcheting buckle instead of the conventional double-D ring.
While racers use double D for security, the quick-release buckle is more convenient for tourers who often stop for fuel, coffee or a toilet break. It makes it easier to fasten, remove and adjust.
Streamlining
Shoei has streamlined the new shell in a wind tunnel so it is more compact and more aerodynamic which reduce the amount of fatiguing wind noise inside.
While most helmets have a couple of intake vents and one exhaust vent, the GT-Air II has three intakes and five exhausts, so it should be a lot cooler in the summer.
It comes with the 3-D Max Dry System that is removable, washable, replaceable and adjustable.
They claim it absorbs sweat twice as fast as nylon and is shaped to match a rider’s head. But if you’ve got a weird head shape, you can buy thicker and thinner pieces to ensure an optimum fit.
Like the GT-Air, the new model has the Emergency Quick Release System (EQRS) that allows first responders to remove the helmet from an injured rider’s head without further injuring their neck.
It will come in a range of sizes from XS to XXL and colours.