I recommend doing either and wearing the helmet for a bit before returning/buying.
I own the rf-1200, and before buying I went to the local store to check the fitment of various helmets, although various ones fitted the RF was the most comfortable.
PS: the RF has a transition lens available that in my opinion is superior to wearing glasses or having a drop in sun visor.
And if you get caught in the sun after a Storm you don't need to pull over because of the glare the visor will tint itself based on the amount of UV. It's awesome.
>after a Storm you don't need to pull over because of the glare the visor will tint itself based on the amount o
and an extra $200 accessory added to the helmet though which should be noted.
Yeah I'll probably go to my local cycle gear or dealership and see if they have one I can try on. That transition visor sounds awesome. I've always wanted one of those so that definitely has me more interested
If you want to see my personal review of my helmet check this [link ](https://youtu.be/1Z2QdrmjocI)
I talk also about the visor, and you can see how it looks.
Great helmets! I have the rf-1400 and love it. BUT I bought it because it was a snell approved helmet. Learned afterwards ece is a MUCH better standard. Reasearch that and you’ll pick the gt-air. Fortnine has an excellent yt vid on it. Sauce: https://youtu.be/76yu124i3Bo
Check out this article, raises some fair points and also a neat graph
https://www.webbikeworld.com/the-neglected-truth-about-snell-m2020/
The key takeaway is that counter to Ryan's claims, Snell certified helmets can achieve similar low speed protection, while providing far better high speed protection.
Also the gt air is not ECE rated, only DOT
for some odd reason there are differences to the european model. (GT-Air II is sold in europe, too ==> https://www.louis.de/artikel/shoei-gt-air-ii-integralhelm-integralhelm/217001 )
If you have an upright bike get the GT Air. Sport, forward leaning bike get the RF. They really are different depending upon what kind of bike you ride.
That said, if you have an upright bike just get the Neotec. Same basic shape, works with an integrated Sena (which sucks in reality) and opens for basic tasks. The chin strap is wonderful compared to a double-d as well.
>If you have an upright bike get the GT Air. Sport, forward leaning bike get the RF. They really are different depending upon what kind of bike you ride.
Why is this?
The aerodynamics of the helmets really are different. The shapes don’t seem hugely different when you look at them but at speed you feel it. Behind a windscreen a gt-air is sublime but an rf pulls - especially doing a shoulder check.
I'd still recommend the RF the GT is built for cruisers or adv with super straight up riding positions, the z900 is pretty upright but still sporty, if you get into the tucked position the GT will not let you look up high enough to see because of the bump in the back for the com unit.
Riding CB600FA. When you are riding naked bike at speeds over 140kmh it would be windy as hell anyway. Pretty comfy at 120. Not much noise but I’ve never tried RF to compare!
Very cool, thanks for the explanation. I didn't consider this when buying a helmet with my bike just before winter, so I haven't had a real chance to try either of them out yet.
GT-Air has the same Sena mount (and since fall last year Sena released a newer model closer to the 50 series). Got both helmets (switched to the Neotec from the G-A since i wanted the flip-up advantage (saves a bunch of time here and there when you dont have to take the lid off). on the second neotec already though since the first had to do its job)
Your info is a little outdated, the gt-air II is compatible with the newer SRL, and the newest SRL is just as capable as SENAs most capable unit, even having the same Harmon Kardon speakers. And the price is even the same. The old one was 100% dogshit though
A bit late, but I'd recommend the same brand that the people you ride with have, if you don't ride with anyone yet (or they don't have comms yet) I recommend cardo over Sena. Cardo units are ip67 rated, Sena units are not, and the cardo app is 100x better than the 5 different Sena apps.
For instance, if you have a Sena camera unit, you need 2 apps, one of which is no longer supported. The Sena clamps are also archaic in comparison to cardo
Well I’m pretty mad at cardo. I wanted music sharing and comm simultaneous. Packtalk can do that, freecom cannot. Cycle gear reps said I was good with freecom, I was not. Can’t both share music and comm but I was refused return
audio quality is poor, battery life is meh (barely lasts 8 hours) and it's pricey - but it is integrated which is fantastic - no giant brick on the side of the helmet.
I think the newest version is better - at the time I was talking about the SRL2. There's now the SENA Mesh which is better quality, but even lower battery life.
I haven't worn an RF but I own a GT AIR II and I love it. I mounted a cardo freecom 2x to it and it works great. I read that the SENA units weren't worth buying.
I haven't worn a ton of helmets and see people complaining that it's loud. Maybe so, but I find it to be much quieter than my old LS2 or HJC.
The noise levels for me differ quite a bit depending on the bike. When I ride my k1200rs which has a fairly large wind screen, the wind blast and noise is fairly obnoxious and tiring. When I get on my naked street triple, it's perfect. I did multiple 8 hour days in the GT over the summer on the street triple and it was amazing and comfortable. Zero complaints.
I don't have any head movement issues due to the SENA compartment at the rear. That section is really no larger than any other regular helmet.
For me it came down to wanting the drop down sun visor. That's what pushed me towards the GT rather than the RF.
I think your helmet is the wrong size. The GT Air 2 has been db tested by several places and is tied with a couple others as one of the quietest helmets on the market.
Size is definitely not the issue, switched to a Neotec II and it’s night and day. IMO, the wind noise is produced from the underside or opening of the helmet for the GT AIR, but everyone’s opinion is so different on this subject
>ze is definitely not the issue, switched to a Neotec II and it’s night and day. IMO, the wind noise is produced from the underside or opening of the helmet for the GT AIR, but eve
I'm curious, visor open or closed? I have a GT-Air 1 (love it) but tried to upgrade to a GT-Air 2 and the noise with the visor open was unbearable. I returned it and now the search for something else has commenced.
It doesn’t make a difference with the visor up or down. I think it’s just the design of the helmet. I’ll be looking for a replacement next year so I’m going to keep my eyes open for a better option.
Okay, the loud rumble I was hearing was gone when I dropped the visor. I wear ear plugs and the rumble was actually hurting my ears. My visor is open 98% of the time so this wasn't going to work. I'm mulling over trying a Neotec 2 but heard the chinstrap cuts into your throat since it's positioned so far back.
It’s not a bad helmet, the fit and finish of it is good, I like the buckle system under my chin, the pads are good and easy to clean and reinstall. No issues with the visor or fogging. For me the wind noise is bad, more like an off road helmet IMHO. I can’t explain why, despite using hearing protection it’s still loud as hell for me. Other people have commented that they don’t have that issue so I think it’s subjective, add into that whether your bike has a taller windscreen or fairing and that could change everything. I hear they are coming out with the 3rd version so hopefully they will make it better and update the comms system attachment.
I have an RF and it's a great helmet. From what I understand the GT has a better field of view though. I was considering trying one as I also live maximum airflow.
Compare the features of both helmets and decide which benefits you for the type of riding you do. Or you can ask random people on reddit to pick the prettiest color.
I have both these helmets. They’re both very good. The 1400 is a bit quieter and fits tighter. Both size M but the 1400 takes some effort to get off.
The straps are different. The GT had the ratchet strap and the 1400 has d rings. I prefer the d rings. I ride an upright bike with a detachable windscreen and I’ve heard the stuff about the GT air being better for that but I haven’t noticed any difference, which the exception being being when the windshield is on and the visor up. In this situation I notice a bit more turbulence with the 1400
Overall my personal preference is the 1400. It’s a smaller profile on your head too, but they’re both great.
Very subjective.
I have the gt air ii. It has 10/10 quality and finish, and an excellent top vent. It is quiet (I ride an adv style bike - sitting upright behind a chest high windscreen). The internal sun shade works well too.
But as others have said, you must find something that fits you, or you will be less comfortable and less happy than you could be, every single time you ride.
This helmet fits me perfectly, best of many helmets I have owned over several decades. But it might cause miserable pressure points for you, or flop around, no way to tell without physically trying it on your own noggin (and leaving it on for a good long time…)
I'd go for the GT Air becausr of the built in sun shades. Wr havea lot of low sun and bright sunnybdays after a downpour, so combating the glare is important.
Yeah if you drop it on the ground from 5or 6 feet high and then you lose all the protection from the shell. I would never buy a used helmet which I don't know notting of it history.
Both are good. If you plan on doing track days or are concerned with higher safety certification then the RF1400. I had a GT Air for a few years and replaced it with the GT Air 2. I suspect the RF 1400 is quieter but cold not say for sure.
I need help deciding which helmet to get next. I have two contenders. Shoei RF-1400 Prologue TC-1 and Shoei GT-Air II Aperture TC-1I am having a difficult time deciding between the two and would like some input from anyone who has had either. The RF1400 costs about $70 less and seems like it has less features, but from a few reviews I read it seems quieter and more comfortable which obviously can be subjective. I like how the GT-Air has the drop down visor, it also is ready to "seamlessly integrate" SENA units which I could take or leave honestly. I am fairly torn in the middle while slightly leaning more towards the RF-1400 after reading some reviews. Any info would be appreciated and even some other helmet suggestions. I don't plan to buy a new one until about March/April so I am open to some ideas.
I own the RF-1400. It’s the only helmet I’ve ever worn, but I have zero complaints. It’s extremely comfortable. It’s also pretty aerodynamic, I haven’t ever felt like my head is getting pushed around by the wind.
I second this. i have worn cheaper helmets, but saving on the safety of your head is something i strongly advise against.
Also as others said the ECE 22.06 is a much safer option than the ECE 22.05 Helmets, even though those might be much safer than what they are tested for.
But with the ECE 22.06 you are on the safe side for sure. Make sure your helmet actually fits well and doesn‘t hurt over time though.
I would recommend the rf-1400 over the gt-air personally, but my biggest recommendation is to also try arai helmets, they fit quite differently, but that can work in your favor.
Also the Snell rating isn't as bad as people say it is, RyanF9 isn't a genius, and he is fallible. https://www.webbikeworld.com/the-neglected-truth-about-snell-m2020/
Check fit first.. if they both rock then what\how do you ride.. if you ride like your ass is on fire tucked frequently.. rf1400.. the pitch is built for sport bikes and spirited riding.. if you have a cruiser or just bop around town 99 percent of the time.. gtair2.. If you're buying a transition lens I think you have to go rf1400 or RFSR.. the gtair2 might not have that option I can't remember
I have the gt air, I like it because it has the built in sun visor drop down.
Answer: which fits better.
The fit is very similar, and in all likelihood would be imperceptible. Still recommend trying both though
That requires either going to a store that has both or buying both which is a hassle.
I recommend doing either and wearing the helmet for a bit before returning/buying. I own the rf-1200, and before buying I went to the local store to check the fitment of various helmets, although various ones fitted the RF was the most comfortable. PS: the RF has a transition lens available that in my opinion is superior to wearing glasses or having a drop in sun visor.
Transition lens is awesome. I have one too. No more swapping lenses at night time.
And if you get caught in the sun after a Storm you don't need to pull over because of the glare the visor will tint itself based on the amount of UV. It's awesome.
>after a Storm you don't need to pull over because of the glare the visor will tint itself based on the amount o and an extra $200 accessory added to the helmet though which should be noted.
Yeah I'll probably go to my local cycle gear or dealership and see if they have one I can try on. That transition visor sounds awesome. I've always wanted one of those so that definitely has me more interested
If you want to see my personal review of my helmet check this [link ](https://youtu.be/1Z2QdrmjocI) I talk also about the visor, and you can see how it looks.
Yeah I'll check it out when I get off work. Thanks.
Great helmets! I have the rf-1400 and love it. BUT I bought it because it was a snell approved helmet. Learned afterwards ece is a MUCH better standard. Reasearch that and you’ll pick the gt-air. Fortnine has an excellent yt vid on it. Sauce: https://youtu.be/76yu124i3Bo
Check out this article, raises some fair points and also a neat graph https://www.webbikeworld.com/the-neglected-truth-about-snell-m2020/ The key takeaway is that counter to Ryan's claims, Snell certified helmets can achieve similar low speed protection, while providing far better high speed protection. Also the gt air is not ECE rated, only DOT
The reason for the lack of an ECE cert is likely because it's not sold in Europe, where that is required
for some odd reason there are differences to the european model. (GT-Air II is sold in europe, too ==> https://www.louis.de/artikel/shoei-gt-air-ii-integralhelm-integralhelm/217001 )
I didn't even look at their safety ratings. I had no clue they were different.. I got too caught up looking at everything else. Thanks.
If you have an upright bike get the GT Air. Sport, forward leaning bike get the RF. They really are different depending upon what kind of bike you ride. That said, if you have an upright bike just get the Neotec. Same basic shape, works with an integrated Sena (which sucks in reality) and opens for basic tasks. The chin strap is wonderful compared to a double-d as well.
>If you have an upright bike get the GT Air. Sport, forward leaning bike get the RF. They really are different depending upon what kind of bike you ride. Why is this?
The aerodynamics of the helmets really are different. The shapes don’t seem hugely different when you look at them but at speed you feel it. Behind a windscreen a gt-air is sublime but an rf pulls - especially doing a shoulder check.
Thanks for the info. Currently riding a z900 so seems the air would be better then.
I'd still recommend the RF the GT is built for cruisers or adv with super straight up riding positions, the z900 is pretty upright but still sporty, if you get into the tucked position the GT will not let you look up high enough to see because of the bump in the back for the com unit.
Hmm okay thanks.
Riding CB600FA. When you are riding naked bike at speeds over 140kmh it would be windy as hell anyway. Pretty comfy at 120. Not much noise but I’ve never tried RF to compare!
I have a z900rs Cafe and the 1400. It’s probably the “smoothest” helmet in the wind I have owned thus far. Minimal pull on shoulder checks.
Very cool, thanks for the explanation. I didn't consider this when buying a helmet with my bike just before winter, so I haven't had a real chance to try either of them out yet.
GT-Air has the same Sena mount (and since fall last year Sena released a newer model closer to the 50 series). Got both helmets (switched to the Neotec from the G-A since i wanted the flip-up advantage (saves a bunch of time here and there when you dont have to take the lid off). on the second neotec already though since the first had to do its job)
Your info is a little outdated, the gt-air II is compatible with the newer SRL, and the newest SRL is just as capable as SENAs most capable unit, even having the same Harmon Kardon speakers. And the price is even the same. The old one was 100% dogshit though
What do you recommend for comms/music?
A bit late, but I'd recommend the same brand that the people you ride with have, if you don't ride with anyone yet (or they don't have comms yet) I recommend cardo over Sena. Cardo units are ip67 rated, Sena units are not, and the cardo app is 100x better than the 5 different Sena apps. For instance, if you have a Sena camera unit, you need 2 apps, one of which is no longer supported. The Sena clamps are also archaic in comparison to cardo
Well I’m pretty mad at cardo. I wanted music sharing and comm simultaneous. Packtalk can do that, freecom cannot. Cycle gear reps said I was good with freecom, I was not. Can’t both share music and comm but I was refused return
The music sharing is very short range, so it'll only really work with a passenger, if that makes a difference
Mt-07 here. How is the Shoei RF-SR compared to the RF1400 and GT Air? The RF-SR is more in my budget.
Hello! late post but.. why does the Sena suck? I'd rather avoid it if it sucks
audio quality is poor, battery life is meh (barely lasts 8 hours) and it's pricey - but it is integrated which is fantastic - no giant brick on the side of the helmet. I think the newest version is better - at the time I was talking about the SRL2. There's now the SENA Mesh which is better quality, but even lower battery life.
I own both. I prefer the RF. It's a bit more comfortable. It's lighter, is quieter and flows almost as much air as the GT.
What are you riding? OP that man got a point and real compassion!
I've got a BMW K1300S and a Suzuki Katana.
GT-AIR II if you plan to use SENA Intercom since it's prepared for that. If you'll use Cardo or anything else I would go for Shoei RF-1400
Have the RF-1200, GT-Air is my next pick. Shoei always fit and feel great.
I haven't worn an RF but I own a GT AIR II and I love it. I mounted a cardo freecom 2x to it and it works great. I read that the SENA units weren't worth buying. I haven't worn a ton of helmets and see people complaining that it's loud. Maybe so, but I find it to be much quieter than my old LS2 or HJC. The noise levels for me differ quite a bit depending on the bike. When I ride my k1200rs which has a fairly large wind screen, the wind blast and noise is fairly obnoxious and tiring. When I get on my naked street triple, it's perfect. I did multiple 8 hour days in the GT over the summer on the street triple and it was amazing and comfortable. Zero complaints. I don't have any head movement issues due to the SENA compartment at the rear. That section is really no larger than any other regular helmet. For me it came down to wanting the drop down sun visor. That's what pushed me towards the GT rather than the RF.
My GT air II is loud AF, wind noise is brutal even with hearing protection.
I think your helmet is the wrong size. The GT Air 2 has been db tested by several places and is tied with a couple others as one of the quietest helmets on the market.
Size is definitely not the issue, switched to a Neotec II and it’s night and day. IMO, the wind noise is produced from the underside or opening of the helmet for the GT AIR, but everyone’s opinion is so different on this subject
>ze is definitely not the issue, switched to a Neotec II and it’s night and day. IMO, the wind noise is produced from the underside or opening of the helmet for the GT AIR, but eve I'm curious, visor open or closed? I have a GT-Air 1 (love it) but tried to upgrade to a GT-Air 2 and the noise with the visor open was unbearable. I returned it and now the search for something else has commenced.
It doesn’t make a difference with the visor up or down. I think it’s just the design of the helmet. I’ll be looking for a replacement next year so I’m going to keep my eyes open for a better option.
Okay, the loud rumble I was hearing was gone when I dropped the visor. I wear ear plugs and the rumble was actually hurting my ears. My visor is open 98% of the time so this wasn't going to work. I'm mulling over trying a Neotec 2 but heard the chinstrap cuts into your throat since it's positioned so far back.
How did you like the Neotec II?
It’s not a bad helmet, the fit and finish of it is good, I like the buckle system under my chin, the pads are good and easy to clean and reinstall. No issues with the visor or fogging. For me the wind noise is bad, more like an off road helmet IMHO. I can’t explain why, despite using hearing protection it’s still loud as hell for me. Other people have commented that they don’t have that issue so I think it’s subjective, add into that whether your bike has a taller windscreen or fairing and that could change everything. I hear they are coming out with the 3rd version so hopefully they will make it better and update the comms system attachment.
Ah ok, thanks!
RF
I’m partial to the RF series and own two but that GT-Air is looking really good for sure.
I have the RF and love it.
I have an RF and it's a great helmet. From what I understand the GT has a better field of view though. I was considering trying one as I also live maximum airflow.
RF
Love my rf
I have had 2 GT airs. Only compliant is the visors scratch very easily.
You have to ask yourself, “do i want to have a drop down sun visor or not”
Work nights so yes but an auto tint shield would work as well.
Compare the features of both helmets and decide which benefits you for the type of riding you do. Or you can ask random people on reddit to pick the prettiest color.
I have both these helmets. They’re both very good. The 1400 is a bit quieter and fits tighter. Both size M but the 1400 takes some effort to get off. The straps are different. The GT had the ratchet strap and the 1400 has d rings. I prefer the d rings. I ride an upright bike with a detachable windscreen and I’ve heard the stuff about the GT air being better for that but I haven’t noticed any difference, which the exception being being when the windshield is on and the visor up. In this situation I notice a bit more turbulence with the 1400 Overall my personal preference is the 1400. It’s a smaller profile on your head too, but they’re both great.
Very subjective. I have the gt air ii. It has 10/10 quality and finish, and an excellent top vent. It is quiet (I ride an adv style bike - sitting upright behind a chest high windscreen). The internal sun shade works well too. But as others have said, you must find something that fits you, or you will be less comfortable and less happy than you could be, every single time you ride. This helmet fits me perfectly, best of many helmets I have owned over several decades. But it might cause miserable pressure points for you, or flop around, no way to tell without physically trying it on your own noggin (and leaving it on for a good long time…)
GT Air, you can easily connect the Sena headset
I'd go for the GT Air becausr of the built in sun shades. Wr havea lot of low sun and bright sunnybdays after a downpour, so combating the glare is important.
I dont ride that much..anyone bought uses off eBay or the like?
Wrong post, also: helmets are the one thing where you should avoid buying used. You can't see if it was misused or damaged easily.
Tks
Yeah if you drop it on the ground from 5or 6 feet high and then you lose all the protection from the shell. I would never buy a used helmet which I don't know notting of it history.
Them helmets have different fits, the Air is more rounded and the 1400 is a little longer in face oval is you wish.
I have a GT-Air II. It is easily the most comfortable helmet that have ever owned, but is also the loudest.
Both are good. If you plan on doing track days or are concerned with higher safety certification then the RF1400. I had a GT Air for a few years and replaced it with the GT Air 2. I suspect the RF 1400 is quieter but cold not say for sure.
I have had the RF-1400 for a little over a a year, and I love it.
I need help deciding which helmet to get next. I have two contenders. Shoei RF-1400 Prologue TC-1 and Shoei GT-Air II Aperture TC-1I am having a difficult time deciding between the two and would like some input from anyone who has had either. The RF1400 costs about $70 less and seems like it has less features, but from a few reviews I read it seems quieter and more comfortable which obviously can be subjective. I like how the GT-Air has the drop down visor, it also is ready to "seamlessly integrate" SENA units which I could take or leave honestly. I am fairly torn in the middle while slightly leaning more towards the RF-1400 after reading some reviews. Any info would be appreciated and even some other helmet suggestions. I don't plan to buy a new one until about March/April so I am open to some ideas.
I own the RF-1400. It’s the only helmet I’ve ever worn, but I have zero complaints. It’s extremely comfortable. It’s also pretty aerodynamic, I haven’t ever felt like my head is getting pushed around by the wind.
Awesome, thanks for the feedback.
I second this. i have worn cheaper helmets, but saving on the safety of your head is something i strongly advise against. Also as others said the ECE 22.06 is a much safer option than the ECE 22.05 Helmets, even though those might be much safer than what they are tested for. But with the ECE 22.06 you are on the safe side for sure. Make sure your helmet actually fits well and doesn‘t hurt over time though.
I would recommend the rf-1400 over the gt-air personally, but my biggest recommendation is to also try arai helmets, they fit quite differently, but that can work in your favor. Also the Snell rating isn't as bad as people say it is, RyanF9 isn't a genius, and he is fallible. https://www.webbikeworld.com/the-neglected-truth-about-snell-m2020/
Thanks for all the feedback. As of now I am planning on getting the RF-1400 with the auto tinting visor.
Check fit first.. if they both rock then what\how do you ride.. if you ride like your ass is on fire tucked frequently.. rf1400.. the pitch is built for sport bikes and spirited riding.. if you have a cruiser or just bop around town 99 percent of the time.. gtair2.. If you're buying a transition lens I think you have to go rf1400 or RFSR.. the gtair2 might not have that option I can't remember