Cycle News Staff | February 24, 2018
Arai has two new helmets: the Defiant-X and the Classic-V.
Arai Defiant-X Helmet
The Defiant-X has a PB-cLc (Peripherally Belted, complex Laminate construction) shell, which uses technology developed in Formula One. The PB-cLc shell is constructed by layering many materials with proprietary adhesives, which allows for a larger eyeport. Then a Super Fiber Belt is added to strengthen the shell like the bands of a barrel.
The mouth vents are equipped with an internal shutter mechanism, so as not to obstruct the clean and aggressive external shell design. Air channels originally designed for the Corsair-X were borrowed and updated and connected to new exhaust ports on the chin bar.
When the front air ducts is closed, it functions as an exhaust duct, allowing hot air to be pulled from the helmet interior out through the rear duct. Additional side and neckroll exhaust ports keep the back of the head comfortable by removing hot air as well.
Faceshield options for the Arai Defiant-X Helmet
The helmet has Arai’s exclusive 5mm peel-away cheek and temple pads to customize the fit. The chin curtain is fixed and creates a low-pressure zone in the mouth area to draw breath out of the helmet to prevent fogging.
This model accepts the optional Pro Shade System (pictured above), and it meets or exceeds DOT and Snell certifications. MSRP for the Defiant-X is $659.95-$809.95
Arai Classic-V Helmet
The Classic-V has a round, smooth old-school-looking shell on the outside, and a high-tech, one-piece, multi-density liner inside.
The ventilation is hidden to retain the old-school looks, and the Classic-V has a traditional-stitched faux-leather trim and accents. It is also made with Arai’s proprietary PBcLc shell, and meets or exceeds DOT and Snell certifications. MSRP for the Classic-V is $469.95-$589.95
The Classic-V currently comes in black, frost black and white. Arai says more colors are on the way.
A Statement From Arai Regarding the new Defiant-X and Classic-V Helmets:
Nearly 70 years ago, Hirotake Arai created the first motorcycle helmet in Japan to protect his own head. Today, Arai Helmets is managed directly by his son and grandson, and has grown to be recognized as one of the world’s premier helmet manufacturers.
Such recognition did not come easily or overnight, but as a result of decades of focus on improving upon what came before; always trying to outdo yourself. This philosophy is shared by every employee at Arai, from top management through every active participant who has a vested interest in their contribution to the final helmet – a helmet that might be worn by a friend, a family member or even a MotoGP star.
Arai is proudly committed to the consistent pursuit of gains in protection with each helmet they create, just like their founder.
Unwilling to just jump on the V-twin and retro helmet style bandwagon, Arai took it upon themselves to create two new models that completely redefine how helmets in these segments should perform. To this end, Arai is proud to announce the release of the Defiant-X and Classic-V.
Held to the same high standards as the rest of their helmets, both the Defiant-X and Classic-V represent Arai’s commitment to time-honored quality and uncompromising protection. The result is a pair of helmets that push performance boundaries and defy expectations.
Through the consistent pursuit of gains in protection, the Defiant-X builds upon the foundation established by its predecessor, the Defiant Pro-Cruise, but defines itself through much more than just a styling update.
Here is a video that tells the Arai Story:
For more information about the Arai Defiant-X and Classic-V Helmets, visit www.AraiAmericas.com
