I just received my new Shark RSR2 "Fujiwara" helmet purchased off of ebay. I had a KBC VR2 that worked well but wasn't of the greatest quality workmanship, in my opinion. The Shark RSR2 is a $625 helmet by MSRP and can typically be found throughout the internet for $525-$600. I "stole" mine, new in box, for $220. The can be found even cheaper ($160) if you have an XSmall head.
If you read the
webbikeworld review on the helmet, they claim the helmet as their Helmet of the Year 2007 before even writing the rest of the article.
I am posting this to give a chronological account of my opinion on the helmet, hopefully giving good feedback to those interested in purchasing one.
Prepurchase:
Tons of info out there on the helmet. Most important stuff in summary:
1) One of very few helmets on the market with DOT, SNELL, and ECE-22/05 standards.
*the ECE is the best, required for MotoGP, World Superbike, and now most AMA. ECE standards test front, back, top, sides and mouth pieces; others only test top and sides. Also measures duration of stress period to riders head.
2) One of few (if not only) helmet with SNELL certification weighing under 4lbs. (1550g, exactly) This is due to a thicker shell required by most manufacturers to survive the puncture test.
3) Helmet is made of woven glass, carbon and aramid (considered the strongest fiber made today) making it incredibley strong and light.
4) Helmet is worn by multiple riders in professional races throughout the world; Miguel Duhammel for one.
4/22/08- Receipt of Helmet
Incredibly comfortable! Soft, microfiber like interior. Helmet fits snugger than most due to its race design.
Will update as ride time goes on.
