Two is better than one. At least that is what Brian Weston, the Managing Director at Arai Helmets, was suggesting as he unveiled the new two new helmets — the Quantum-X and Signet-X.
In the helmet market, yes, two is better than one. Why? Well there’s no question that there are multiple head shapes, and thus the market needs multiple helmets to properly fit that variety and ultimately provide better protection. That exact reason is why Arai decided to release both the Quantum-X and Signet-X — two helmets that are essentially identical, but are constructed with very slight differences to provide a more quality fit to a wider range of heads.
Arai’s two new models cater to two general head shapes in the North American market — the Signet-X for long-oval heads and Quantum-X for round-oval heads. The only difference between the two are varying EPS and comfort liners; The Signet’s EPS liner is longer front-to-back and narrower side-to-side, while the comfort liner is the same as the Corsair-X for a pronounced oblong shape. Meanwhile, the Quantum has an EPS liner that’s shorter front-to-back and wider side-to-side, as well as a model-specific comfort liner with thicker front and rear padding that improves fit for riders with a round-oval head shape. On a side note, the Quantum’s comfort liner is interchangeable with that of the Corsair to achieve an intermediate-oval fit if needed.
To differentiate the look between the helmets without sacrificing safety or performance, Arai engineers gave the helmets differing chin bars and chin vent styling, but otherwise the rest of the helmets’ features are identical. Arai packed many of the same technologies as the Corsair into both new models like the Peripheraly Belted Super Complex Laminate Construction (PB-ScLc) shell design which uses proprietary materials and techniques to ensure a thin yet protective shell, Eco-Pure comfort liners constructed of anti-microbial materials, ES chin covers, and QVF and QVR vents for cooling purposes.
Both models also adopt more technologies from the Corsair-X such as a 3mm longer chin bar and 2mm of extra room in the cheek liner for more clearance to the front of the helmet, and the Variable Axis System (VAS) faceshield system that uses a positive shield capture. Similarly, they feature the same basic round shell shape as the Corsair, which is meant to glance off objects in the event of a crash.
So on paper the Signet-X and Quantum-X are nearly identical, but is there really a difference in fit worth mentioning? As part of the press launch, Arai slapped helmets on us journalists and sent us up the coast of California to test them out.
Right off the bat, there was a noticeable distinction in fit between the Signet and Quantum. Having a head shape that is more elongated than round, naturally I found the narrower fit of the Signet to have better comfort, but the Quantum also fit exceptionally well. Besides being slightly less snug around my entire head, the only drawback I found with the Quantum is the minor amount of wiggle room that caused the helmet to shift positions while on the open road. That same shift causes the helmet to feel like it is being pulled back on my head resulting in a small amount of pressure from the chinstrap — the problem didn’t exist wearing the Signet-X.
The rest of the performance was excellent, as we expect with anything the Arai logo is stamped to. Both helmets’ ventilation systems performed great, and eliminated nearly any sweating despite the 110 degree heat that we fought. Adjusting the vents also was an easy process, and can be done while riding in full gloves without hassle. Furthermore, the comfort liners provide a cozy feel and prevented any type of skin irritation or rash, and the field of vision is more than adequate for sport riding.
If you’re in the market for a new helmet this season, there’s no question that the Signet-X and Quantum-X should be up for consideration. Arai took themselves to a new level by creating two of the same helmets with varied fit to offer the same experience and protection to every end user
So go ahead, try them on and find which works for you. You won’t be disappointed.
Both the Signet-X and Quantum-X are available now with retail prices ranging from $679.95 to $709.95 for solid colors, but up to $829.95 for graphics.
For more info, visit www.araiamericas.com
