Shoei RF-1400 launch must be close

[Jac]

I have been holding out replacing my aged Shoei RF-1100 helmet waiting impatiently for Shoei to introduce its RF-1400 model.  Looks like my wait may be over soon.  Revzilla’s website currently now has no solid color RF-1200 helmets in any color or size available.  I understand Shoei will be skipping over a RF-1300 model designation and going from RF-1200 to RF-1400.

Hoping they don’t mess up a fantastic and very popular full face helmet with the RF-1400 introduction:  keep the traditional D-ring chin strap, leave the Sena-ready design for other Shoei helmet models (I use a Cardo Bold), maintain the quiet and fit of the preceding versions.

[Jac]

Hours after my initial post, Shoei announced the new RF-1400 full face helmet will be available January 1, 2021.  Looking at Shoei’s corporate website information about the new RF helmet, the traditional D-ring chin strap fit adjusters of earlier RF models have been retained, quietness and weight are claimed to be further improved, and it appears it isn’t specifically customized for Sena Bluetooth systems —- all good things in my view.  Nice solid colors including a new “Basalt Gray” option and a good choice of graphics if you like that.  In the U.S. the RF-1400 will retail for $500.  As usual, graphic designs about $100 more.

[mzflorida]

I'm curious what you like about the Shoei RF series? It's a good-looking helmet.  I'm using Arai Signet X as I have a long oval head shape and it's one of the few that has not given me a hot spot.    I really like the Arai.  It has remained baseball-hat comfortable, but it has become noisier over time.   

[Jac]

Helmet fit is such a personal thing.  When you eventually find one that’s “baseball hat comfortable,” as you say, you don’t want to take a chance with something new —- but there does come a time when you are ready to replace.  In the case of the Shoei RF full face helmets, they have been evolving the helmet for decades starting with the RF-100 model.  Shoei works to ensure the fit stays the same for each helmet size with each successive RF model release so you don’t upgrade into something less comfortable than you had before.

The cost of making a mistake buying an expensive helmet can be high.  Sellers generally won't accept a return if you have used it for its intended purpose but you can’t know for certain it’s perfect for you until you have ridden with it awhile.

[mzflorida]

Agreed.  Revzilla has a pretty good exchange policy.   But no riding allowed...only around the house.