Great long term review! I bought a new white one when they first came out. Liked it a lot. Sold my bike 4yrs ago and sold my two Shoei helmets. Just got a commuter NC700X and trying to be on a budget I opted for excellent condition used RF-1200. No signs of drops. Found two excellent deals on them. RF-1200 Silver Large w/ Sena 30K $200 Black Small w/ Sena 30K & transition visor $180 The large looks like it barely has been used. The small is still great but padding is a bit more worn and eps liner looks more worn. I know you can’t really tell if they have been dropped so maybe I should send them in. For two RF1200 both with Sena 30K and 1 transitions visor for $380 is a great deal imho.
@@MonoMoto that’s what I meant by eps liner. Foam is the correct word for sure. The small looks a bit more worn compared to the large especially by the forehead area. But not a damaged look just like what putting it on and off would cause. The large looks like new which is what I will be wearing. The small is just for the family when they actually get on the back for a very minor ride.
Excellent review...I own 2 of these helmets and I stand by them. I got hit by a car and thrown from the bike and landed chin first flush on a curb then slid about 20ft. I just had a slightly swollen lip as a result. The rest of my body well lets just say I wish my entire body could fit in this helmet....lol. I will only buy Shoei!!!!
mine is 5 years old, i love this helmet. Good for few more years im sure. Helmet is hard to put on and get off and its tight but that makes it quiet :)
Just bought one of these. They do a photochromatic visor for it, costs £150, expensive yes but, not having to change the visor during cloudy weather or when it gets dark is definitely appealing.
@@MonoMoto commute , Field of view is amazing , air flow and how light it feels.. also the tight fit is great 👍 I’ve had the gt air nxr and now x spirit 3 I ride an s1000rr so I’m in a bit of a tuck position to start with
@@ur2slob724 Great bike ! I also ride one and have tons of track content on my channel with her. Check it out. Yes the helmet matches the bike very well and also is my choice especially on the track.
I must say it's the best helmet review I have seen on youtube. Not only some babble about features of the helmet but proper long term owner review. You should work with Shoei because now I'm ready to buy mine RF1200 (NXR in EU) :) Big love from Poland! P.S. Great video quality
Go for it, it is a great helmet, I had some initial break-in pain for literally first 70km and it was perfect afterwards. Also I had some issues fitting my speakers but figured it out, I should upload a tutorial 🤧
Fantastic video! I've been drowning in helmet reviews recently and getting nowhere. This was genuinely insightful and you gave your input from a variety of different riding styles. I didn't pick up an RYD (RF-SR) when I had the chance so I think it'll have to the RF 1200. Your helmet is in great condition for 6 years of use so that gives me confidence in buying one. Subbed and looking forward to your future videos
Glad it was helpful! And the RF 1200 has amazing build quality. Definitely a helmet that does it all. If you want to own only one helmet for many different riding scenarios I'd go for that one.
Glad you like the review. Keep in mind Shoei recommends to replace a helmet after 5 years for safety reasons and has because of that also a 5 year warranty.
It’s called the red orange mirror and you can pick it up at revzilla or amazon . Made a video lately that speaks about the visor colors . Check it out on my channel
The good thing about the RF-1200 is that it is quieter than the GT Air II (according to some posts of random people on web forums). But also, you can purchase ear pads for the RF-1200 which go into the helmet, and fill the empty space which stupid new helmets have because they are setup for bluetooth systems. Most people don't need a bluetooth system, and it's unfortunate that they design all normal helmets with a big void around the ears now to hold speakers. But the RF-1200 can be silenced even further with some add on ear pads, just look them up. They aren't expensive. The RF-1200 also has a better gasket around the helmet, and a much better visor locking and notching mechanism than the HJC which are just awful. The HJC is just as good but the visor falls down, and the gasket on the Strada II is the single problem with the Strada, it's a bad design. The HR SR Shoei is a quieter version of the RF-1200 and has less ventilation, but is also cheaper. The RF-1200 has better ventilation but could be slightly louder than the HR SR.
@@MonoMoto absolutely! luckily i have a seller just 5min. from where i live..don't know why Shoei is not that easy to find in Italy (at least in my area)..i was just looking for a review like this, good job!
@@RoadUser_Motovlog wow ! Well I bet every country has their preferences in fit and brands. Makes me happy that this review has helped you. And you are from Italy ? I wanted to ride Mugello this summer, but due to Covid I couldn't . Hopefully next year ! Greetings from California to bella Italia !
What tinted shield do you have on your X-14? Is that red/orange mirror or gold mirror? Please help me decide which one to get, I have an RF1200 and I can’t find red/orange mirror review anywhere. Thanks
Hi there ! Yes you guessed right it is the red/ orange mirror shield.The shields for the X14 and RF 1200 are the same and you can use them on both. And all the shields are in stock at revzilla www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/shoei-cwr-1-pinlock-ready-face-shield
Thanks for the kind words. That's stuff that keeps creators going :) for silicon lube : never as I live in a very dry climate (California) , but if you go through rain often I guess I'd apply it when it starts leaking.
I don't but a friend had one. I'd say it depends on your riding. The GT-AIR is the better touring helmet and the 1200 is the more sporty one. So do you do more sport or tour riding ?
I just got mines. It feels a bit tight but imma guess that normal and because its brand new? I will continue to wear it around the house to see if it gets any better through.
Yes they break in a little bit. But also different brands might need different sizes. Tight is good as long as you get no hot spots or any pain if you wear it for a long time.
@@MonoMoto thanks for the reply. I've been wearing it whiling working at home. No pain so I should be good. Any preferences on lense to help block the sun but still work during the night time?
Snug fit and not points that get irritated or super red when you take the helmet off sound like a good fit. For Visors : ideally of course use either a transition shield or carry a clear visor for night riding but if you check www.shoei-helmets.com/technology/shoei-shield-tints.html you can see how much light they let through .Every now and then I had to use a dark smoke at night and you don't see a whole lot with that lid at night ;)
You mean their wax cleaner for bikes ? I had a few cans of that but only used it on the bike. I think there is no reason to use anything but water and soap on a helmet. Why use more when there is no reason for it ?
@@MonoMoto I see your point. But when I first started riding I was really excited to get all the gear and gadgets as well as other things and that spray fell under that category for me. I love the stuff so I just like promoting the product. Plus I'm lazy, spray it on, wipe it off. Anyway, I hope you have some great adventures and keep the rubber side down.
Gary Miller That Honda spray polish is the best stuff. I’ve used it on my bike and on my Arai helmet for years. The helmet is still in great shape! No fading or anything but I’m due for a new one. It’s possible it could wear down the finish on cheaper helmets I guess?
Pffff... i can't really make up my mind... i need help... i will drive mostly in the city but several times a week i will be on the highway aswell. I decided to invest and buy a full face helmet. I cant understand whats best for me since i am new biker . Rf1200/gt air ii / nxr ? Please throw some knowledge...
So the RF 1200 and NXR are the same helmet. Just called differently in different markets. GT AIR 2 and 1200 are similar but little different helmets. Do you like the comfort and integrated visor better ? Or do you want a helmet that is a bit lighter and would need a dark visor for strong sunlight ? Pretty important is also if you like the graphics / colors they come in. Hope this helps.
Overall pretty comparable- the x14 cheek venting is awesome , but I feel like the 1200 gets more air in on the top of the head . So x14 cooler cheeks , rf 1200 cooler scalp 😀
Could you please convince me to buy this helmet over the HJC RPHA 11 PRO? I know that the RPHA is not snell rated and that it is louder, and not as comfortable for longer street use. Ultimately seems like the wiser decision is the Shoei RF 1200. But Shoei graphics are so boring!
heheheh that is one of funniest request I have gotten this far. Well the Shoei is a more quality product. If you want to keep one helmet for 5 years take that. If you want some cool graphis and get a new helmet in 2 years get an HJC. also if you don't ride a lot get the cheaper helmet. I still hope Shoei launches soon some new helmets as well. Keep your eyes open for that.
@@MonoMoto Haha! I aim to please! Okay, thanks! I am convinced :) I ride every day, which is why I know that Shoei is the better decision. I am going with the Dystopia design, which isn't too bad. Thanks again!
Well the X 14 is a race helmet made for the race track. That's why it's louder and we always wear earplugs on the track. The RF 1200 is a bit quieter yes, but I'd recommend you to simply wear earplugs and safe the money.
If you live in the USA you can order it from Revzilla. They have a few cool chrome options! Now am rocking a silver one and it looks pretty badass too.
@@MonoMoto Thanks! Revzilla has a few options from what I have seen. Do you mind sending me a link to the exact one you have? The pictures on their site are hard to tell which are mirrored. I also live in the bay area! (from your vids I think you live here too?) I am new to riding, but I am looking forward to becoming decent enough to ride all the twisty mountain roads here!
www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/shoei-cwr-1-pinlock-ready-face-shield?sku_id=1248323 red / orange mirror is the one in the video. Yup living in SF and yes we have awesome roads here. Just learn at your pace and soon enough you'll be able to ride everywhere with tons of fun !
Ideally not , but had to do it here and there. If it is a well lit highway it is not a huge problem, however a dark side road is an issue when dark. If you ride often at night you could get a transition visor that gets darker when hit by the sun.
Check out my RF 1400 Review ua-cam.com/video/B0EoZ3rjNTk/v-deo.html
Great long term review!
I bought a new white one when they first came out. Liked it a lot. Sold my bike 4yrs ago and sold my two Shoei helmets. Just got a commuter NC700X and trying to be on a budget I opted for excellent condition used RF-1200. No signs of drops. Found two excellent deals on them.
RF-1200
Silver Large w/ Sena 30K $200
Black Small w/ Sena 30K & transition visor $180
The large looks like it barely has been used. The small is still great but padding is a bit more worn and eps liner looks more worn. I know you can’t really tell if they have been dropped so maybe I should send them in. For two RF1200 both with Sena 30K and 1 transitions visor for $380 is a great deal imho.
Great deal indeed. maybe remove the liner and inspect the EPS foam just to be sure.
@@MonoMoto that’s what I meant by eps liner. Foam is the correct word for sure. The small looks a bit more worn compared to the large especially by the forehead area. But not a damaged look just like what putting it on and off would cause. The large looks like new which is what I will be wearing. The small is just for the family when they actually get on the back for a very minor ride.
My compliments to you. This is by far the best review I have seen of a helmet. Congratulations.
Wow, thanks!
Awesome review
Excellent review...I own 2 of these helmets and I stand by them. I got hit by a car and thrown from the bike and landed chin first flush on a curb then slid about 20ft. I just had a slightly swollen lip as a result. The rest of my body well lets just say I wish my entire body could fit in this helmet....lol. I will only buy Shoei!!!!
Wow sounds like this was a crazy crash. Glad you are ok and thanks for sharing how your Shoei held up!
@@MonoMotothanks bro
mine is 5 years old, i love this helmet. Good for few more years im sure. Helmet is hard to put on and get off and its tight but that makes it quiet :)
Just got news that the RF 1200 replacement will be in stores in January :)
@@MonoMoto yeah, saw it in 650ib video, he already got one.
Very well done video, greatly helped my decision. Thank you.
Glad it was helpful ! Thanks vor the subscribe it really helps my channel grow.
Also keep the RF 1400 in mind which just came out . There is a detailed review on my channel as well . It’s linked in the comments above.
@@MonoMoto haha I'm watching that video of yours now, thank you.
Haha 😆 sorry it’s really long but hope you find good information in it !
Just bought one of these. They do a photochromatic visor for it, costs £150, expensive yes but, not having to change the visor during cloudy weather or when it gets dark is definitely appealing.
Yes it's super handy to have 2 visors in one. Just keep it safe from scratches !
Just sold my nxr after 2 years for an x spirit 3 and WOW!! the x spirit 3 is so much better
What features do you feel make it a better helmet? How do you use it mainly ?
@@MonoMoto commute ,
Field of view is amazing , air flow and how light it feels.. also the tight fit is great 👍
I’ve had the gt air nxr and now x spirit 3
I ride an s1000rr so I’m in a bit of a tuck position to start with
@@ur2slob724 Great bike ! I also ride one and have tons of track content on my channel with her. Check it out. Yes the helmet matches the bike very well and also is my choice especially on the track.
Awesome review mate and thank you for the GoPro guide!
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you, I enjoyed the clear and concise info and your natural presentation style!
Glad you enjoyed it!
I must say it's the best helmet review I have seen on youtube. Not only some babble about features of the helmet but proper long term owner review. You should work with Shoei because now I'm ready to buy mine RF1200 (NXR in EU) :) Big love from Poland!
P.S. Great video quality
Wow thank you for the great reply ! I'm happy that the information helped you and greetings to Poland, where my mother is from :)
Go for it, it is a great helmet, I had some initial break-in pain for literally first 70km and it was perfect afterwards.
Also I had some issues fitting my speakers but figured it out, I should upload a tutorial 🤧
DuttyGixxer Check out my video where I already did that : ua-cam.com/video/B0A8cGUZDJY/v-deo.html
Fantastic video!
I've been drowning in helmet reviews recently and getting nowhere.
This was genuinely insightful and you gave your input from a variety of different riding styles.
I didn't pick up an RYD (RF-SR) when I had the chance so I think it'll have to the RF 1200. Your helmet is in great condition for 6 years of use so that gives me confidence in buying one.
Subbed and looking forward to your future videos
Glad it was helpful! And the RF 1200 has amazing build quality. Definitely a helmet that does it all. If you want to own only one helmet for many different riding scenarios I'd go for that one.
@@MonoMoto thanks for the response!
Excellent video, pretty much what I was looking for, ty👌🏾
Glad it helped
Knowing that this helmet can hold up to 6 years of usage and still looks brand new, I can place my order now. Great video.
Glad you like the review. Keep in mind Shoei recommends to replace a helmet after 5 years for safety reasons and has because of that also a 5 year warranty.
Looks like that helmet sat on a shelf for 6 years. Looks brand new. Amazing. Ride safe and ride often. Peace.
Have some close ups of the damages in the video and also treat it well when it's off my head. But yes they are build well.
Thanks for the review! Your voice reminds me of the actor Edward Jeter who plays Eduard Delacroix in The Green Mile.
Now thats a comparison you don't hear every day. Glad it was helpful.
Excellent review!!! I’m in the market for a new helmet and have been looking at this one very seriously. Thank you very much! Liked and subbed!
Glad I could help!
Hey great vid. What is the visor (color and where did you buy it from) for the helmet on the far left at the beginning of the video?
It’s called the red orange mirror and you can pick it up at revzilla or amazon . Made a video lately that speaks about the visor colors . Check it out on my channel
Hi. My head measures 22", would a XL be right for me, and can I wear Rx eyewear with this helmet ? Thanks.
I'd go with the size chart.
The good thing about the RF-1200 is that it is quieter than the GT Air II (according to some posts of random people on web forums). But also, you can purchase ear pads for the RF-1200 which go into the helmet, and fill the empty space which stupid new helmets have because they are setup for bluetooth systems. Most people don't need a bluetooth system, and it's unfortunate that they design all normal helmets with a big void around the ears now to hold speakers. But the RF-1200 can be silenced even further with some add on ear pads, just look them up. They aren't expensive. The RF-1200 also has a better gasket around the helmet, and a much better visor locking and notching mechanism than the HJC which are just awful. The HJC is just as good but the visor falls down, and the gasket on the Strada II is the single problem with the Strada, it's a bad design. The HR SR Shoei is a quieter version of the RF-1200 and has less ventilation, but is also cheaper. The RF-1200 has better ventilation but could be slightly louder than the HR SR.
Ritalie that’s great info thanks for adding that .
Good. i'm gonna get one this week to replace my Icon Variant
Definitely try it on and make sure the shape fits your head as well :)
@@MonoMoto absolutely! luckily i have a seller just 5min. from where i live..don't know why Shoei is not that easy to find in Italy (at least in my area)..i was just looking for a review like this, good job!
@@RoadUser_Motovlog wow ! Well I bet every country has their preferences in fit and brands. Makes me happy that this review has helped you. And you are from Italy ? I wanted to ride Mugello this summer, but due to Covid I couldn't . Hopefully next year ! Greetings from California to bella Italia !
@@MonoMoto yep! All the way from tuscany..shame on me, i live only 3 hours away from Mugello but i've never been there on my bike 😄
What tinted shield do you have on your X-14? Is that red/orange mirror or gold mirror? Please help me decide which one to get, I have an RF1200 and I can’t find red/orange mirror review anywhere. Thanks
Hi there ! Yes you guessed right it is the red/ orange mirror shield.The shields for the X14 and RF 1200 are the same and you can use them on both. And all the shields are in stock at revzilla www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/shoei-cwr-1-pinlock-ready-face-shield
Thanks. Appreciated👍🏻. I just ordered it.
Amazing video! Super nice to know! How often did you silicon lube the visor seals? Thanks
Thanks for the kind words. That's stuff that keeps creators going :)
for silicon lube : never as I live in a very dry climate (California) , but if you go through rain often I guess I'd apply it when it starts leaking.
Between the hjc rpha 11 carbon and the shoei nxr which would you pick??
I personally like the premium quality of Shoei's but you should just try both and compare them for yourself's also consider the NXR 2 is out now.
Nice review!
I’m thinking between this and the GT-Air ll. Do you have a comparison review?
I don't but a friend had one. I'd say it depends on your riding. The GT-AIR is the better touring helmet and the 1200 is the more sporty one. So do you do more sport or tour riding ?
Mostly touring for me with an F850GS. I am using a Neotec ll now. I am looking for a second helmet.
@@elginm659 I guess that answers your question : )
The CW-1 SPECTRA BLUE for xr1100 is the same size to Shoei Rf1200?
No 1100 helmets are using CW shields and 1200 and x14 use the CWR shields which are not interchangeable
Is that the dark smoke shield? Can’t decide what to buy for mine, light smoke or dark smoke
Yup it's a dark smoke. If you are riding in bright sun I'd go dark every time. It's just as strong as a pair of Ray Bans and perfect for me.
Excellent review!! Move over Anthony, Armin is in town! LOL!
haha that is quite the compliment. thx
I just got mines. It feels a bit tight but imma guess that normal and because its brand new? I will continue to wear it around the house to see if it gets any better through.
Yes they break in a little bit. But also different brands might need different sizes. Tight is good as long as you get no hot spots or any pain if you wear it for a long time.
@@MonoMoto thanks for the reply. I've been wearing it whiling working at home. No pain so I should be good.
Any preferences on lense to help block the sun but still work during the night time?
Snug fit and not points that get irritated or super red when you take the helmet off sound like a good fit.
For Visors : ideally of course use either a transition shield or carry a clear visor for night riding but if you check www.shoei-helmets.com/technology/shoei-shield-tints.html you can see how much light they let through .Every now and then I had to use a dark smoke at night and you don't see a whole lot with that lid at night ;)
You ever tried Honda spray polish?
You mean their wax cleaner for bikes ? I had a few cans of that but only used it on the bike. I think there is no reason to use anything but water and soap on a helmet. Why use more when there is no reason for it ?
@@MonoMoto I see your point. But when I first started riding I was really excited to get all the gear and gadgets as well as other things and that spray fell under that category for me. I love the stuff so I just like promoting the product. Plus I'm lazy, spray it on, wipe it off. Anyway, I hope you have some great adventures and keep the rubber side down.
Gary Miller That Honda spray polish is the best stuff. I’ve used it on my bike and on my Arai helmet for years. The helmet is still in great shape! No fading or anything but I’m due for a new one. It’s possible it could wear down the finish on cheaper helmets I guess?
Pffff... i can't really make up my mind... i need help... i will drive mostly in the city but several times a week i will be on the highway aswell. I decided to invest and buy a full face helmet. I cant understand whats best for me since i am new biker . Rf1200/gt air ii / nxr ? Please throw some knowledge...
So the RF 1200 and NXR are the same helmet. Just called differently in different markets. GT AIR 2 and 1200 are similar but little different helmets. Do you like the comfort and integrated visor better ? Or do you want a helmet that is a bit lighter and would need a dark visor for strong sunlight ? Pretty important is also if you like the graphics / colors they come in. Hope this helps.
Hows ventilation compare to x14 ?
Overall pretty comparable- the x14 cheek venting is awesome , but I feel like the 1200 gets more air in on the top of the head . So x14 cooler cheeks , rf 1200 cooler scalp 😀
Could you please convince me to buy this helmet over the HJC RPHA 11 PRO? I know that the RPHA is not snell rated and that it is louder, and not as comfortable for longer street use. Ultimately seems like the wiser decision is the Shoei RF 1200. But Shoei graphics are so boring!
heheheh that is one of funniest request I have gotten this far. Well the Shoei is a more quality product. If you want to keep one helmet for 5 years take that. If you want some cool graphis and get a new helmet in 2 years get an HJC. also if you don't ride a lot get the cheaper helmet. I still hope Shoei launches soon some new helmets as well. Keep your eyes open for that.
@@MonoMoto Haha! I aim to please! Okay, thanks! I am convinced :) I ride every day, which is why I know that Shoei is the better decision. I am going with the Dystopia design, which isn't too bad. Thanks again!
Hi .. I’m thinking of buying this helmet because I find my new shoei x14 to be really loud.. Do you think it will be quieter ?
Well the X 14 is a race helmet made for the race track. That's why it's louder and we always wear earplugs on the track. The RF 1200 is a bit quieter yes, but I'd recommend you to simply wear earplugs and safe the money.
More info on the GoPro attachment in the chin!
Like mentioned in the video there is a link in the description to a blog I wrote about it.
Hi! Awesome video! I was wondering, where did you get that orange/gold mirrored visor? I must get one for my 1200!
If you live in the USA you can order it from Revzilla. They have a few cool chrome options! Now am rocking a silver one and it looks pretty badass too.
@@MonoMoto Thanks! Revzilla has a few options from what I have seen. Do you mind sending me a link to the exact one you have? The pictures on their site are hard to tell which are mirrored. I also live in the bay area! (from your vids I think you live here too?) I am new to riding, but I am looking forward to becoming decent enough to ride all the twisty mountain roads here!
www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/shoei-cwr-1-pinlock-ready-face-shield?sku_id=1248323 red / orange mirror is the one in the video.
Yup living in SF and yes we have awesome roads here. Just learn at your pace and soon enough you'll be able to ride everywhere with tons of fun !
@@MonoMoto Great! Thank you!!!
Do you ride your dark visor on night time
Ideally not , but had to do it here and there. If it is a well lit highway it is not a huge problem, however a dark side road is an issue when dark. If you ride often at night you could get a transition visor that gets darker when hit by the sun.