Over 30 years since buying my first Shoei, I'm still a proud Shoei head. With the latest NXR2 with SENA SRL-EXT, comfort, tech and fit have never been better. We test them as a duo...
More than 30-years after buying my first Shoei, a Wayne Rainey replica X8, I’m still loyal to the brand. Now, with the Shoei NXR2 and SENA SRL-EXT intercom, it’s clear Shoei continues to lead in comfort, fit and innovation. Here’s a six month review on our lids…
“After a lot of searching, I landed on the Shoei NXR2, and from the moment I took it out of the box, I knew I’d made the right choice”…
Looking for a premium helmet and seamless comms setup? Here’s our take after 6 months with Shoei’s NXR2 and Sena’s SRL-EXT. Back in 1992, I legally entered the wonderful world of motorcycle riding. First thing on the agenda was to purchase a shiny new helmet to protect my noggin. Off I popped to my local motorcycle store to sample the array of different brand’s helmets that were available at the time. After some time, I proudly walked out the door with a Shoei X8 Wayne Rainey replica helmet in my hand.
Shoei NXR2 two helmet with smoke visor and SENA SRL-EXT set up totals $2,909.75
Now, it wasn’t cheap, but everyone always told me “cheap helmet for cheap head”, so I thought the investment was worth it (plus I was 21 with money to burn and had my eye on the newly hyped Honda Fireblade that had just been launched – which I ended up getting by the way), but more to the point, it was the only helmet I tried on that actually fitted perfectly, which, let’s face it, is the most important factor with any helmet.
From that day on I was a Shoei man. I’ve borrowed or tried other fancy helmets along the way, but always got pressure point aches on my forehead after riding for any length of time, so it is official: I am definitely a Shoei head person. So recently, when it came to getting new helmets for myself and the other half (yes, she has a Shoei head too) after a long overdue six years, there was only one option really, so let’s dive into the details of what we ended up getting and why.
“The NXR2 helmets seem to have a lot more cheek padding with the standard pads they supply with the helmet, so I needed to upsize to the Large 59-60 size helmet”…
I always liked the Shoei RF models I’ve had in the past, so the current NXR2 was a natural choice, not only because it has the best shape of the entire Shoei range (in my opinion) but also because it does what it says on the packet without any unnecessary bells and whistles, like fold down visors or the flip up faces etc. However, I did notice one thing with this model straight-off-the-bat though; if you are a long term Shoei owner like myself, you probably always get the same size helmet (obviously right?), so I picked up the Medium 57-58 as normal and stuck it on my head, only to find it was too small!
Si and J went for the two new NXR2 models in different graphics, both with SENA comms… Shoei NXR2 and SENA SRL-EXT.
The NXR2 helmets seem to have a lot more cheek padding with the standard pads they supply with the helmet, so I needed to upsize to the Large 59-60 size helmet to fit properly. Before you start thinking “but what about all the pies you’ve eaten in the last six years?”, well, the sizing difference was confirmed when the missus tried on her usual XS size to find it was too small as well, so she also went one size up to the Small instead.
Read out other Shoei and SENA reviews here...
So, with the NXR2 model determined, we needed to choose a design. The latest designs were in stock and were stunning, so I opted for the TC-5 “Knee Down” ($949.95 RR) with its MotoGP race track motif, and the missus, J, went with the TC-6 “Beaut” ($1,149.95 RRP) which suited her perfectly as it is almost two designs in one. Both are highly detailed in a cool matt finish. We also got the obligatory dark smoked visors ($119,95 RRP) to really bring the look home, as we only ride during the daylight hours these days.
“J went with the TC-6 “Beaut” which suited her perfectly as it is almost two designs in one”…
Now, there is another reason why we picked the NXR2s. Our old SENA 10s intercom units were on their last legs with frayed cables from years of use, and after doing some research we discovered that Shoei and SENA have collaborated to design a helmet specific intercom for the NXR2 range; the SENA SRL-EXT ($569.95 RRP). As mentioned, these intercoms are specifically designed for the NXR2 helmet, meaning they fit seamlessly into the helmet. The result is the tidiest integration I have ever had with an intercom unit, but more about that later.
“I opted for the TC-5 “Knee Down” with its MotoGP race track motif”…
First thing on the agenda was swapping out the standard clear visors for the dark smoke ones. The method was exactly the same as it has been on the RF models for years, with a simple release switch. That job was knocked over in no time. Interestingly, I also found a little switch at the bottom of the visor mounting plate that I was not familiar with, so I had to do some research to see what it was for.
It turned out to be a visor adjustment lever that pulls the visor slightly forward or backwards to get the best seal on the helmet beading. Handy if the visor is not completely sealing, or if it is too tight, hard to open or causing the beading to deteriorate from too much pressure. After that I added the chin curtain and breath guard (nose piece) as I always do, another feature I love about Shoei helmets, but, if you are getting the SENA SRL-EXT intercom as well, don’t add the chin curtain yet as you’ll only be pulling it out again to fit the intercom – lesson learnt.
Next up was fitting the SENA SRL-EXT intercoms. The instruction manual is pretty straight forward, so I followed it religiously like I always do with these things. The helmet’s hand washable internal padding pops out easily with snap fasteners giving me a chance to explore the E.Q.R.S (Emergency Quick Release System), plus all the kit they supply in the box means you don’t need any extra tools or tape to install it.
“Next up was fitting the SENA SRL-EXT intercoms. The instruction manual is pretty straight forward, so I followed it religiously like I always do with these things”…
The only mistake I made was trying to follow the instructions too closely. It mentions lining up the cable connectors with recesses in the helmet moulding, but of course, they didn’t line up exactly and I had to get creative. It was only after watching a fitting video on YouTube that I noticed you don’t need to be so picky with getting everything lined up perfectly, as it is all covered up with padding after the internals are replaced. So, don’t follow the instructions too closely!
Shoei NXR2 and SENA SRL-EXT
After everything was fitted I popped it on my head and noted it was pleasingly comfortable with the speakers not rubbing on my ears which I have noticed in the past (if they had of done, optional smaller pads for the speaker mounts are supplied), but I did notice one thing: when I pulled the helmet off, the left hand side check padding snap fasteners would pop off as my ear rubbed past it.
Luckily, there were some extra 3M tape patches in the kit, so I added one to the part that was catching on my ear to stop this from happening. The missus had no problem with this, so mine could just be an odd occurrence, …..or I have a head shaped like The Elephant Man.
Once fitted and charged, the next thing was to download the SENA Motorcycles app to our phones and pair the intercoms to them. With this done, we just added each other’s intercom IDs to the BT (Bluetooth) connections within the app and we were in business. At this point, the apps told us we needed to update the intercom firmware.
With SRL-EXT model intercoms, this can only be done via a computer. You need to install the SENA Management software on your computer and then connect the units via USB to it. Keep that in mind just in case if you don’t have a computer. Another thing to mention is that these intercom units are a permanent fixture on the helmet, unlike the 10s and other style SENA units that detach. This of course is no problem, as this unit is only ever going to get used on this specific helmet, but it does mean you move the whole helmet to the charger. A small price to pay for such a seamless integration.
On our first ride we chatted through the intercom about what we noticed about the helmets. The first standout observation we both had was just how light they were. The comfort and lightness was great, especially for the other half, as she is only small. The vents in the chin, forehead and top sides of the helmets also worked great in the Queensland summer heat.
The NXR2 advertising blurb is also promoting a more aerodynamic design than previous models, which became quickly apparent as the helmet seemed much quieter with less wind noise, which in turn made for the SENA intercoms being much clearer and easier to hear (especially with my old man hearing) and the fact we’re on a naked KTM 1290 Super Duke R with a straight pipe exhaust tip.
“On our first ride we chatted through the intercom about what we noticed about the helmets. The first standout observation we both had was just how light they were”…
At this point, I had to do some experimenting with features I had been reading about in the SENA manual. I’m an android phone user (Apple also does the same thing with iPhone fanboy words instead) so a quick “Hey Google” into the intercom got things happening. I managed to send a useless “Hi, I’m texting from my helmet” text to an unsuspecting friend, and then call the same friend to explain why I just did that. I woke Google again through the intercom to open Spotify and play some music (which I must admit sounded great through the Harman Kardon speakers) and then share the same music from my phone with the missus on the back via the Bluetooth intercom connection with one push of a button.
Tech is amazing these days! The intercom has many more features which I am yet to play with including being able to pair with non-SENA units, being able to connect via Bluetooth 5.0 with up to 4 riders or a 9 channel “Open Mesh” (like CB radio) with up to 8km range for an almost limitless amount of riders, or a private closed “Group Mesh” for up to 24 riders, or using voice commands to get directions from your phone, ….it goes on and on. All this with a 12 – 16 hour battery life depending on which intercom connection method you prefer. It’s a lot of bang for your buck!
Now, as with everything in this world, nothing is perfect for everyone. I’m loving this helmet, but my only small gripe is the fact that they have moved the visor ‘opening lip’ to the centre of the visor with a push button release (which you can push open without the button with a bit of force) which has been standard since the first NXR release, but of course, I never had one of those, so this is new to me.
“So, as just a lowly Streetfighter-type-guy reviewing a brand of helmet he has known for years, I can genuinely say this new NXR2 helmet is top notch”…
After years of having the lip on the left hand side, this move is pretty annoying for me. I only ever use my left hand to open the visor, as I normally have my right hand on the front brake at lights or in traffic, plus it no longer has the two step lever which meant you could leave the visor slightly ajar to demist it. Potentially the supplied pinlock insert will alleviate any fogging issues anyway, but as an old timer, I forgot to attach it and still haven’t got around to it. The visor does have pretty solid notches for incremental opening, but I have heard they are not strong enough to hold it open at speed and it just closes under wind pressure. I haven’t needed to try that yet though, so I can’t confirm. On the other hand, it does seal excellently with this new design.
“Just like the day I walked out of that shop back in 1992, I know I have a high quality helmet to be proud of.”
So, as just a lowly Streetfighter-type-guy reviewing a brand of helmet he has known for years, I can genuinely say this new NXR2 helmet is top notch. Just like the day I walked out of that shop back in 1992, I know I have a high quality helmet to be proud of. Shoei have once more upped the game and the SENA intercom integration is genius as a whole package. Would I recommend you get this pairing? – absolutely I would, it has been great for us two.
Second Opinion – J’s Review
I’d been wearing my old helmet for a while and although it had served me well, it was definitely time for an upgrade. After a lot of searching, I landed on the Shoei NXR2, and from the moment I took it out of the box, I knew I’d made the right choice. I love the design – the unique mix of solid black on the right half of the helmet and a black and white design on the left half looks really striking. I love that it stands out without being over the top. As much as I love how it looks, it’s how it feels that really won me over.
Slipping it on for the first time, it felt like it was made just for me. Snug but not too tight, with just the right amount of padding to feel secure without any uncomfortable pressure points. The shape at the back near the neck is something I really like. it’s shaped in a way that fits so naturally, giving extra support and comfort. And it’s super lightweight, which is a big plus for me, it feels like it’s barely there.
“The unique mix of solid black on the right half of the helmet and a black and white design on the left half looks really striking”…
One of the biggest surprises was how quiet this helmet is. My old Shoei wasn’t bad, but this one is next level. Wind noise is so much lower, making for a much smoother and more enjoyable ride, especially at higher speeds. Of course, nothing is perfect. The visor opens from the middle rather than the side, and while that’s not a dealbreaker, I do find it a little less convenient. And the ventilation, while decent, could be better. In the hot Queensland summer, the more vents the better.
That said, I have zero regrets about this upgrade. I had high expectations, and the NXR2 has absolutely delivered. It’s stylish, comfortable, lightweight, and so much quieter than I expected. A couple of small tweaks would make it perfect, but honestly, I couldn’t be happier with it, 8.5/10.
Visit the Shoei Australia website here for all prices and info on their products…
Ratings | Gear Review | Shoei NXR2 and SENA SRL-EXT
Excellent
Over 30 years since buying his first Shoei, Si is still a proud Shoei head. With six months use under their visors with the latest Shoei NXR2 and SENA SRL-EXT, comfort, tech and fit have never been better, Si and J explain why…
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