Arai XD-5 Review

Arai Helmets introduced a new multipurpose helmet, the XD-5. Successor to the XD-4, the helmet features design updates for a stronger, safer, and more functional product.

As with every Arai helmet, the major emphasis is on safety; the “Priority to Protect.” This starts with a strong shell manufactured with layers of fiberglass and resin. The XD-5’s shell is rounder, stronger, and smoother for greater glancing-off performance than the XD-4. As part of its Peripherally Belted Complex Laminate Construction (PB-cLc 2) using an array of special materials, the forehead area is reinforced with a Super Fiber belt for strength and light weight. When wearing an Arai helmet, be assured that the one covering your head meets the same requirements as the one Maverick Viñales uses on Sundays.

“Rounder, Stronger, Smoother.” That’s the motto for Arai Helmets. The R75 shape (featured on all Arai helmets) refers to “a continuous curve radius of at least 75mm, making Arai shells round, smooth, and strong.” The idea is that a round, smooth shell allows for the greatest glancing-off performance. When the helmet comes in contact with the riding surface or an object, it will glance off and distribute energy away from the helmet and the rider’s head. All air ducts or vents are designed to break away in the event of a crash to prevent snagging and increase glancing-off performance.

Arai is constantly developing the strength and safety of its helmets, but the R75 shell shape remains relatively unchanged because the company believes in a round, smooth surface for its helmets.

Impact energy is absorbed and distributed through the helmet’s one-piece, multi-density EPS liner. The Arai XD-5 features different densities throughout the liner working together to minimize acceleration and deceleration forces to the brain.

Arai’s XD-5 features a revised shell shape (longer) for a more universal fit. The new visor and peak are 20mm lower than the XD-4 allowing for a smoother surface near the rider’s temples to increase safety. A new visor system has been engineered for easy, toolless removal and an increased field of vision from a new Max Vision visor. The XD-5’s VAS-A visor, derived from the Corsair-X, enables riders to add the Pinlock 120XLT insert included with purchase.

The peak has been designed for greater aerodynamic efficiency to prevent drag and create a quieter helmet while traveling at speed. And because the XD-5 is a multipurpose helmet, the peak can be removed with a single screw on each side, transforming the helmet from an ADV and off-road setup to a full roadster on-road configuration. And for those wanting to wear goggles, the visor can be quickly removed without tools. So if you ride dirt bikes, streetbikes, and adventure bikes, the XD-5 is the only helmet you need. Just adapt the helmet to the style and functionality you desire.

The XD-5s redesigned interior is fully removable so riders can wash and adjust the liner. An adjustable pad at the back and temples of the crown pad allows for a customizable fit. The FCS cheek pads feature a 5mm peel-away material for further adjustment.

Another big emphasis in the development of the new XD-5 was ventilation. Arai’s XD-5 features a new chin vent that can flow up to 200 percent more air than its predecessor depending on the motorcycle, and has gained the 3D logo air duct like the one found on the Contour-X. An inner vent gate offers the ability to direct air toward the rider’s mouth or up toward the inside of the visor to reduce fogging. Because of the increased ventilation from the new air ducts, Arai was able to eliminate the mesh chin bar vents, which serves two purposes; a stronger chin bar and a smoother, flatter surface for the addition of a communication device.

Recognizing the demand for communication devices in all forms of motorcycling, the XD-5 also features designated speaker cubbies above the cheek pads. Riders no longer have to modify their helmets when installing a communication device. Plus a tuck-away pocket in the neck roll helps to organize and tidy up additional wire length without having to tape any slack to the inside of the helmet.

Arai’s all-new XD-5 is available in 12 color options and ranges in sizes from XS to XXL. Pricing starts at $839.95 and goes up to $949.95 depending on colors and graphics.

One of the best compliments you can say about a helmet or any gear is it goes unnoticed. That is the case when wearing the Arai XD-5. During long photo stops and water breaks on our press event ride through warm Southern California, the need to rip off the helmet for some relief was hardly felt.

The field of vision through the new Max Vision visor is expansive. Scanning your gaze in any direction will barely find the perimeter of the visor. Imagine watching 4K action camera footage on a large smart TV. It looks like that. One of the biggest improvements instantly noticeable from the new visor over the previous XD-4 was the lack of distortion when looking down through the lower third of the visor. Crystal-clear vision is experienced through every angle of the visor.

When traveling at (and sometimes well above) indicated speed limits, the new peak system does not cause any buffeting or drag; leading to a more comfortable, relaxed, and less fatiguing ride. The new ventilation systems provide noticeable airflow to your mouth and head. Arais have always been comfortable and fit well for this rider’s size XS head. The XD-5 is no different. During our ride, we were provided Cardo’s Packtalk Edge communication device. Installing, removing, or adjusting the internal headphone speakers and wires was easy and intuitive. The new ear pockets eliminate the need to rip apart the helmet interior, which is never fun.

Arai’s XD-5 exceeded our expectations as a dynamic and highly functional multipurpose motorcycle helmet. Arai may not be recognized for having the most flashy, polarizing, or trendy shapes, but it’s hard to argue with the quality and safety record of its lids for the last 70 years. That is the Arai difference.

Helmet: Arai XD-5

Jacket: Alpinestars ST-7 2L Gore-Tex

Pants: Alpinestars Revenant Gore-Tex Pro

Gloves: Alpinestars Megawatt V2

Boots: Alpinestars XT-8 Gore-Tex

Backpack: Alpinestars Techdura Tactical Pack