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Shoei and Arai only make helmets, they are the best at this because helmet manufacture is all they do.
Fly's helmets are co branded units produced in the kbc factory, not bad gear (similar to other similar helmets like the fox units) however not as good as a dedicated helmet company (Arai, Shoei) can produce / quality check.
The second thing is longevity. Arai and Shoei have been around for generations. Chances are your pops has an old Arai helmet on the shelf. They have stood the test of time. When you see a Shoei or Arai sticker on a vehicle - you automatically think of quality brands that have stood the test of time.
They are made in Japan. If you know anything about Japanese production / management then you would prefer all your important things are produced there, rather than a Korean KBC factory.
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For years FLY was that brand I always steered away from, but in '13 I tried out their helmets and haven't taken them off--I was a Shoei guy. I own a Formula Stryper and an F2 Carbon and I prefer the F2 because the liner works better with how bad I sweat. I heard the '16 addressed that. Overall though, the Formula is an awesome helmet. One thing, I haven't hit the deck hard with either--knock on wood--so I can't tell you some incredible story of it saving my life. I just googled the helmet and saw BTO is selling the 2014 for $89. That's the one I have and that price is crazy for the quality of it. Shit, the helmet bag it comes with is worth the price they're asking.
Clearly Fly isn't at the top of your list, however you should try some of their helmets before coming up with such crap statements. They are very very good and light weight. One of the most comfortable helmets I've ever ridden with. So you understand they are not rebranded KBC helmets!!! These are in house designed and go through the same CERTIFICATION process and use the same materials to build and manufacture their helmets as Arai. Most of the brands today that have been in the industry making moto gear have done their research. This isn't 1990 where Japan had a clear advantage in the layup of woven strands, not too mention back then fiberglass helmets were at the cutting edge of design. Fly racing have been in the helmet game for 12 years now and in that time they have come up with some super nice and true fitting comfortable helmet designs made out of the same exotic materials that Arai and Shoe use. Korea, Tawaian and Japan are very close in workmanship. I'll agree that Japan is a step higher in manufacturing and facilitation over all quality control but believe me Korea and Tawaian are not far behind and all 3 countries utilize aircraft grade layups.
Second we should all buy Mercedes Benz, they are one of the oldest car company's in the world. Not saying they dont make good cars, but there's a lot of other company's that make good cars too.
I agree japan based company's have a great manufacturing and production lines. They use a lot of Six Sigma programs to continually improve their lines and products.
I am not saying Arai and Shoei are not great helmets. But saying other company's aren't as good do to age and where they are produced is not 100% correct. Also, MX is an expensive sport, I can barley get to the track this year, Let a lone spend 500 plus for a helmet. I have spent 200-300 for my last 4 helmets all have been great.
Pit Row
Motokiwi is a hater, for little reason.
Fly helmets are made in the same facility as 6d, arguably one of the market leaders in quality and safety.
Arai and Shoei are woven with carbon and fiibreglass, good for absorbing the force of a crash but not as durable as the plastic ones(.I've seen too many pros with chips that won't replace them because of the cost.)
Shoei's are pretty heavy because of the snell rating in the US. but parts are easy to get and custom fit.
most econo helmets have a plastic molded shells and are more durable for most riders, they have improved with the new ECE testing giving a thinner more absorbing shell.
my suggestion if you hit so hard you break the peak it's time to replace your lid.
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