You may have read in a recent article here on the AAB site that Arai once again is tops in customer satisfaction. There is, of course, good reason for this. Arai’s quality control, attention to detail, and innovation are second to none.
The new Arai XD-3 Helmet is yet another superior offering from the Japanese helmet company. The XD-3 is a convertible design that targets the dual-sport and adventure touring markets. Obviously, riders in these demographics need a helmet that is suitable for road, fast off road, and technical trail duty. The XD-3 converts for use in a wide range of conditions.
For road duty, where a visor would act as an air scoop creating excessive helmet lift, the XD-3 can be worn with the shield only. Thus, in essence, it’s a road helmet. For varied conditions, the helmet can be worn with the visor and the shield. For pure off-road duty the XD-3 can be worn with the visor and goggles, making it a full dirt-bike helmet.
In addition to this extreme versatility, the XD-3 offers extreme ventilation. It features a high-flow peak, which channels air directly into the front vents. Speaking of vents, the XD-3 incorporates four top intake vents and two exhaust vents. The chin bar also offers both intake and exhaust venting.
Can there be a downside to such a refined and versatile helmet? Well the Arai XD-3 retails for about $700. I have bought several motorcycles for less than that. However, like the old motorcycling adage states, “you can’t put a price tag on your head.”
