The new Shoei Neotec 3 is a modular lid that exceeds the highest safety standards in the world, while remaining light and stylish. We put one to the test. Here is our Neotec 3 review...
You’ve read about the new Shoei Neotec 3 helmet on this site. I’m going to save you some time if you have. While I’ve covered some of the details of the helmet below, which I’m sure you’ll find riveting, let me say straight away that it sets a new standard for modular helmets.
Externally, an integrated spoiler and shaping on the chin bar and base directs and deflects wind. At speed, the spoiler and base design reduce drag and lift on the helmet while also reducing turbulence.
No, I lie: it sets three new standards for modular helmets. That may even become four by the time I manage to fit the dedicated SENA intercom, which looks absolutely state of the art. A lot of helmet reviews compare the new model with its predecessor. This is encouraged by manufacturers, but since I have never worn a Neotec 2, and I suspect most of you haven’t either, let’s begin afresh.
“In use, the first thing you notice is that the helmet is easy to put on even though the opening looks quite squeezy. “
This is the first helmet I have worn that meets the brand-new ECE 22.06 standard. That alone means that Its safety credentials are outstanding. The shell is made from Shoei’s AIM six-layer composite material utilising fibreglass and organic fibres for maximum strength with low weight, while the internal liner consists of multi-density EPS foam for outstanding shock absorption. The Neotec 3 comes in a remarkable four shell sizes, another safety plus. So that’s a new standard for safety.
Shoei say their constant drive to improve the helmet experience was driven by a new factor for the Neotec 3; the design needed to ensure superior aerodynamics and styling whilst achieving the new ECE22.06 certifications.
In use, the first thing you notice is that the helmet is easy to put on even though the opening looks quite squeezy. That’s partly because of the fleecy material which allows it to slip on easily, and partly because of the shape of the cheek pads which run all the way to the back of the helmet. Glasses slip in easily and never become noticeable.
Once you’re rolling, one thing is noticeably missing and that’s noise. This is a seriously quiet helmet, both because of the cheek pads once again and because the aerodynamics are superb. That also means that the helmet is absolutely neutral, without any tendency to lift or press down. That’s even true if you ride with the chin piece up – the helmet is approved for both closed and open operation.
“This is a seriously quiet helmet, both because of the cheek pads once again and because the aerodynamics are superb.”
It simply stays comfortable under all conditions, in my case even after a very hot 400km ride. The smooth material across the forehead and over the ears holds it in place and an upper moisture-wicking layer is designed to absorb sweat from the top of your head. I know that this is one place where I sweat a lot, so I appreciated the technology.
“My 400km ride in 37 degrees proved that ventilation is good with two intake ports on the chin, two on the crown and a large exhaust at the rear.”
The helmet’s weight is well within the range of competitors at 1750 grams, with the Schuberth C5 weighing 1640gm and the Shark Evo GT also at 1750gm. That’s theoretically important on the road, but few current model helmets ever feel heavy to me.
Read the full Neotec 3 tech details here...
My 400km ride in 37ºC proved that ventilation is good with two intake ports on the chin, two on the crown and a large exhaust at the rear. The intake ports have three settings and are easy to open and close with gloves; the chin intake has a bug screen that can be removed and cleaned. All together then a new standard for comfort, as well.
Opening the visor is easy with a smooth central chin button, and removal is a snap without tools. The helmet ships with a Pinlock Evo insert as well as a breath guard, some silicon lubricant and even a small service tool. It has the obligatory internal sunshade, and that is smooth and easy to use. Both the main visor and the chin piece move easily and click smoothly into position to exclude draughts and rain. The interior lining is easy to remove for washing. No matter where you look, the helmet is easy to use and to adjust with no tricky operations needed. So that’s a new standard in convenience, too. One minor problem I found is that the left end of the chinstrap slips out of its covering loop.
Like all helmets from Shoei, the Neotec 3 is hand-made by craftspersons and you can both see and feel that in the overall quality. Shoei’s Australian importer McLeod Accessories was kind enough to send me one when I inquired about the Neotec 3, and I have been wearing it on different bikes, mainly on my Triumph Street Twin. It’s safer, it feels better and it’s easier to use than any other modular helmet I have ever worn. Three ways in which, in my opinion, it sets new standards.
My matt black Neotec 3 sells for A$1349.90 (A$1299.90 for white, A$1499.90 for graphics Grasp TC-5). McLeod’s also sent me the SENA SRL3 intercom which fits straight into this helmet, but I have simply been too busy to fit that. You’ll read about the reason for that right here, quite soon.
Sized from XS-2XL utilising three shell sizes and four EPS sizes for the perfect fit for each head size, longer internal sun visor, multiple tint and spectra options of the external visor, six solid colours and two graphics with many more to come, the Neotec 3 is priced from $1,299.90 and is available now from your local motorcycle dealer and accessories retailers.
Shoei Neotec 3 Australian Pricing (Visit Shoei’s website here for more)
- SHOEI NEOTEC3 WHITE RRP $1299.90
- SHOEI NEOTEC3 MATT BLACK RRP $1349.90
- SHOEI NEOTEC3 GRASP TC-5 RRP $1499.90
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Rating | SHOEI Neotec 3 review. The Peter ‘The Bear’ Thoeming puts it to the test…
Fantastic!
The Neotec 3 is a modular helmet offers many advantages to the everyday commuter and tourer, providing full face protection as well as open face convenience; something that comes in very handy during group rides and training situations. Here is our review.
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