Shoei GT-Air 3 motorcycle helmet review - Sportsbikeshop
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- Опубліковано 19 жов 2023
- Shop GT-Air 3 at Sportsbikeshop… bit.ly/GTAir3
Shoei’s GT-Air 3 is here to shake up the touring market. Safer, quieter, better venting, superior rain seal. Find out what we think of it by watching our detailed review. - Авто та транспорт
For those saying you need to buy the integrated comms system….. you don’t. You can buy any third party comms system and slap it onto the side of helmet. I did 🤷♂️ 😊
This is a really nice helmet and am looking to get one. I am not too bothered by comms as I don’t use it but it occurred to me that maybe all the helmet manufacturers should come together and create a dimensional standard for comms and they all have the same and it’s up to the manufacturers to make their electronics fit and then you have a choice, then everyone’s happy.
Cardo and some other brands are proposing precisely this, standardising sizes and fitment method so helmet firms can make their lids suit a range of different comms. As far as I'm aware, only LS2 have taken up this concept so far. It would seem a good solution for riders, giving wider choice of comms. Helmet makers, however, may see the loss of control (and profit) as an issue. Cheers, Tony
Thanks for the reply, that’s interesting, maybe it needs to be led by the helmet manufacturers, that way they are in control.
@@sportsbikeshop They may find it an issue, but they’ll also lose sales of the actual helmet. If I can’t transfer my nearly new comms, I’m probably not going to buy the GT Air 3. Also, if I have to shell out another £300 for new comms every time I buy a new helmet, I’m going to replace my helmet every 4 years, not every 3.
Agreed@@philipbassett5129 I guess if they start to notice a loss of sales they may change tack. Our shop staff report people choosing not to buy a particular helmet model because their existing intercom won't fit. This is especially true for people who ride two-up. For them the extra outlay is doubled. Cheers, Tony
Exactly…the comms will obsolete before the helmet does. At least Cardo is making an effort to go in the adapter direction by making one for the Neotec 2/GT-Air 2 in the Packtalk series that fits into the left side cut out, but unfortunately it’s an adhesive backing, not a snap-in like the original.
Shoei - and a few other brands - are making it harder for riders to buy their helmets. I used Shoei GT-Air helmets for a decade but moved to another brand when the GT-Air II came out with the dedicated comm system. I use Cardo units and have always liked them better than Sena. I kept hoping Shoei would come to its senses and go back to a helmet that allowed any comm system but with the GT-Air 3, it seems that is not to be. And to top it off, until an adapter comes out, even current Sena users will have to buy new units in order to add comms to the GT-Air 3.
I agree about comms. I moved from a gt air to an x-lite, which I liked, but two of the vents broke, so after 3 years, I got an HJC. That has crap visors. On the second now, both have cracked, and the latches have fallen off. Shoei quality is so much better, just a shame they insist on making them comms specific.
I have an HJC Rpha 70, same issue with the visor cracking. Shame as otherwise is a great lid. Looks as if theyve addressed this with the Rpha 71 but it now has dedicated comms! @@trevorphillips3055
The intercom has put me off buying one. It’s very frustrating that all of the top spec helmets are tied to specific units.
Totally agree, Luke, I will be very disappointed if this turns out to be the case and I can’t fit my Cardo unit. It smells of a con, but it will backfire badly on Shoei in lost sales, mine included
@@philipbassett5129 Yep helmet manufacturers need to define an intercom specification that a unit slots into, if internal intercoms are going to become the norm.
The only place to go for all your biking needs. Great videos too. Thanks for this, sadly a bit out of my price range😢😢
The GT-Air 3 has four significant issues:
1 - the neck roll is so tight it dislodges when you remove your helmet.
2 - the chin air curtain doesn’t clip into the helmet properly and dislodges every time you remove your helmet.
3 - the visor is too flexible at the centre locking clasp, which makes it impossible to lock the visor by pressing on the centre visor clasp. The only way I can lock the visor is to push down on the top of the visor.
4 - the chin vent is second to useless. It allows very little air and doesn’t adequately clear the visor.
Overall the GT-Air 2 is a much better all-round helmet. That being said the Sena SRL-3 is light years better than the SRL-2. Full Siri integration is a game changer. Cheers. Chris
Dont forget the ratchet system instead of double D rings
@@helmax7153Ratchet so much easier and faster to use. I wouldn't buy a D rings helmet.
@@G91YS Id rather not have my helmet fall off when I crash so im gonna stick to D rings
excellent and well balanced review! Thanks!! Btw, what is that jacket you are wearing? It's pretty sharp!!
That's an Oxford Barkston, which will get a review in future. Thanks for the kind comment on the review. Cheers, Tony
I think this purpose in-built Comms is a bad idea, just mould a recess on the lid and let people decide.
Thanks for the review, been waiting for this one for a while. When you say shell size you mean the outer shell, correct?
Yes, three outer shells. Cheers, Tony
Rather have double D than those microlocks.. sounds like a hassle to ship it back to the factory only to switch it into double D and get a homologation wich also costs money again
Good informative review as always.
As has been said already, dedicated coms is a pain If you have a favoured brand of intercom, this must cost more sales than this feature generates.
Feels like this helmet is overall a little underwhelming, good but others are doing better now. If you can answer Tony, GT Air 3 or equivalent HJC?
Others have upped their game, yes. In terms of build quality, Shoei is still supreme in this regard. Schuberth's S3 vents better and HJC has other benefits. I'd choose the RPHA-71 as it better suits my head shape and has an anti-fog sun visor. I also prefer D-rings. but I feel the Shoei is a better quality offering overall. Cheers, Tony
I've owned a GT-AIR II and loved it. It was amazingly quiet. Recently purchased the GT-AIR III and added the Sena SRL3 comms. The helmet is incredibly noisy in comparison. I'm not sure why. Also, it appears that the GT -AIR III model Shoei changed the color of the sun visor. It's tinted slightly lighter. This change in color from GT-AIR II makes a big difference if your eyes are sensitive to light. I found it immediately noticeable in comparison to the GT-Air II. My GT-AIR II was purchased in the USA and the GT-AIR III in EU. It seems like there may be some differences in the market releases.
You didn’t say about the new metal fibres in the chin strap , that’s why they can make it narrower .
It's a while since I reviewed the GT-Air 2 so I wouldn't have been able to detect this. It's possible it has changed as the new road standard here in Britain and Europe (22.06) has new tests for the sun visor to pass. This may explain why a version in the US is different. I can't offer an explanation about the noise increase for you, apologies.As for metal fibres in the chin strap, this wasn't mentioned in Shoei's technical information for the helmet. Thanks for getting in touch. Cheers, Tony
I think I'll buy a GT Air II instead of the III... Save a few hundred € too... I'm using the JBL Cardo Bold and managed to use it without issue on the Neotec II so I guess it'll be the same for the GT Air II.
I’m sure this is a great helmet (most are but can we please discuss the fact that an intercommed graphic version is a thousand pounds? I can’t be the only one baffled by that figure.
I have my own Cardo comm system and Shoei almost makes me unable to buy all their new helmets because of that...
Hi thanks for the detailed review, useful, as I have a GT Air 3 on pre-order. One question, you say fitting other brands of intercom may be “difficult”, is that just because of the positioning of the unit? I have a Cardo Spirit HD, could the unit not be fitted slightly more forward of the normal position, on the side of the chin piece? I would really appreciate your opinion, as I may cancel my order if it’s impossible to fit my own system.
Yes, you could try fitting your Spirit HD there, or further back on the shell. It's not that it won't go on, it's just that it is very unlikely to go where you want it to go in an ideal world. Cheers, Tony
@@sportsbikeshop Ok great, thanks for that Tony. I was concerned that there might have been other reasons I couldn’t fit it. As you say, I’ll take my unit and a sticky pad and try it.
So did you use your Cardo unit? I have a 4 years old JBL Cardo Bold that is awesome on my Neotec II and would like to move to the GT Air III. No issue?
@@G91YS I did, yes, positioned slightly further BACK than is ideal, buy it’s fine.
For me it got really uncomfortable on the sides behind ears after wearing it for 1 hour. Tried Arai quantic - it is a way more comfortable helmet.
I really wanted to buy this helmet but if I cannot use my own (high end and brand new) intercom with it then it's a no go. Same with the HJC RPHA 71, this is a real shame ... Shoei is losing customers this way, I'm going to start looking at Shark or Scroprion, which I did not want to do.
Tony, two questions, is it really worth it to buy this one helmet instead of the GT Air 2? and the other one? besides this and the Rpha 71? Thanks in advance and cheers from Costa Rica. Pura vida.
For as long as GT-Air 2 helmets are available then I think the end-of-line discounts will make them at least as good a bet as the GT-Air 3, which is an evolution of that design rather than a full revamp. If you're asking me to compare this and the RPHA-71 then I think this is a better helmet. If you're asking for other options, I think the Shark Spartan GT Pro/Carbon is worth considering as well - and an Arai Quantic if you're happy to go without the sun visor. I hope that helps. Cheers, Tony
Looks nice. Is there any new info on a new Hornet? 😁
I've not heard anything on that, sorry. Cheers, Tony
How is the vertical visibility? Is it better than gt air II which was unusable with clip-ons (unlike the first gen)?
I had no problems, but then I didn't ride in the crunched clip-on position. I suspect you'll find the 3 to be on par with the 2 in this regard, though I can't say for sure. Cheers, Tony
The custom/helmet specific intercom requirement means I'll pass on this helmet; needing to buy a new comms unit just because a new helmet has been purchased is ridiculous. I'll stick with my RF-1400 for a while and look outside of Shoei next time if this is the path they're going down for comms use.
We need more awareness for the integrated intercom thing to be dropped down, just like apple was kind of forced to switch to type C cable. What could we do more? is there a petition we can sign or anything?
Lost sales (like me right now who really wanted that helmet but won't because of this) will eventually nmake the manufacturers clinch.
Mine is so loud. My 600 aud hjc is very quiet, My 1500aud shoei gtair3 is a hell of a lot louder, never needed ear plugs with my hjc f70 helmet, Visor is a bit clunky with closing. The Sena3 is great. The noise is unbearable at higher speeds.
Shoei if you read this as you should, pay attention: We need future nxr3 and gtair4 or a new model to have:
Much Better multi stage adjustable ventilation where its fully open position leads to a -1 degree Celsius inside temperature vs outside temperature instead of the same inside and outside like this gtair 3.
A drop down sunvisor that goes lowdown not to get on our field of view BUT with a dropdown button next to the base of the helmet not the side as it ruins the Aesthetic completely not to mention its aerodinAmics! Pay attention to the competition HJC's dropdown sunvisor system and Arai ESPECIALLY Arai's interior lining at it is the absolute best in confort it slides down our heads butter smooth every single time and That is all we dream of in a top of the line sport touring helmet.
As for 2023 me and my club rider friends all went for te better sport touring helmets of the moment hjc rpha71 and rpha 91.
You never added a link for the review on the SRL3 nor the adaptor to fit the SRL2 in the GT-AIR3...
The review of the SRL3 isn't finished yet and the adaptor isn't available yet (expected September 2024). Hopefully I'll remember to put the links up when both are available. Cheers, Tony
I have the GT Air 2. It should be a perfect 3 season helmet (too hot for summer use due to no rear venting). But a hefty price hike, yet another new visor (progress or kerching?) and the ratchet strap which rubs your throat no matter how you position it (never had any issues with double D ring) means a big no for me. The NXR is far better but no drop down visor. Waste of money.
Will the SRL3 work with a GT air 2?
No, you'd need SRL 2 for that helmet. I can't imagine Shoei would make an adaptor plate to put the new comms system on an older lid. Alternatively, there's now an adapter to fit top-line Cardo comms to SRL 2 lids like the GT-Air 2... www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk/motorcycle_parts/content_prod/912218 Cheers, Tony
In my personal opinion I would not buy this helmet due to the coms system set up & lack of choice in the same. The helmet I am sure is great, however having a Schuberth with the integrated Sena coms I would never buy a helmet with integrated coms again, well Sena coms anyway, compared to Cardo and others they are very lacking.
Couldn’t agree more. Absolutely stupid decision when manufacturers start doing playing these games.
Far from making money off their deal with Sena, they just cost themselves the sale of a helmet as far as I’m concerned
I have the first one which I love but it’s getting a bit tired now , but I will not be buying one of these for two good reasons I don’t like anything other than double d I just don’t understand why they have stopped using this and I want to use my own coms unit so when it comes to a new helmet I will be looking elsewhere 😎
It's getting harder and harder to find a lid that has a sun visor, D-rings and allows completely free choice of intercoms. Of those I've reviewed so far, the Shark Spartan GT Pro/Carbon is the obvious port of call... ua-cam.com/video/2HuL-gIQREk/v-deo.html I'm working on the new Scorpion Exo-1400 Evo Carbon Air too and that looks to meet your criteria... www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk/motorcycle_parts/content_cat/4091 Thanks for getting in touch. Cheers, Tony
Which intercom is best for that gt air 3
The best intercom for this helmet is the Shoei SRL-3 unit... www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk/motorcycle_parts/content_prod/898769 Cheers, Tony
@@sportsbikeshop I’ve seen that its very best for fitting and designed for helmet but when I check comments from users it seems they are not that satisfied especially on 130 kmph+ speeds. That’s why I’m asking Tony, thanks for your response 🙏🏻
I've ridden at those sort of speeds with an SRL3 and been happy with the volume from it, but it's not something I do very often or for very long so perhaps the customer reviews will give you more assistance in finding what you are looking for. Sorry I can't be of more use. Cheers, Tony
@@sportsbikeshop thanks a lot bro ✌️
Have they changed the visor mechanism?, looks the same as the GT Air 1 and 2, absolutely shit, a real pain to remove and re-fit. What I find with my GT Air 2 is that the vents often let insects in at high speed, needs some kind of mesh, not sure if this has been addressed, also I get a lot of noise from air entering underneath, at the rear. I went for a thicker headliner, but it made no real difference. I paid £400 for my GT Air 2, 4 years ago, I won't be buying the GT Air 3 at £529, there appears to be no step forward. Schuberth next for me.
It's the same visor mechanism as the GT-Air 2. Take your point about it being tricky, but there is a knack. Our former Boston retail manager made a video on it that explains it very well. I hope it helps while you still have your GT-Air 2. Cheers, Tony
@@sportsbikeshop Thanks Tony, I just watched the clip. You do get used to it when you own one, but it's not this difficult with other manufacturers.
I buying the gt air gt 3 realm with the sena srl for shure.
SHOEI JAPAN!! SHUREYOUKEN!!😂
This or scorpion 1400 air?
They're quite different helmets. If you're talking longer trips then I think the touring nature of the Shoei will suit better. Its micrometric fastener is more convenient for frequent on-off as well. The Scorpion is a bit sportier, a bit lighter and has D-rings, which are fiddlier but still preferred by many riders. As ever, fit is the most important factor. If one fits properly and is comfortable but the other isn't then go for the one that is. I hope that helps you. Cheers, Tony
@@sportsbikeshop thankyou, in terms of nosie which is better in your opinion and which comms in this case cardo which would better suited for the jbl speakers.
For those of us with SRL2 comms, this helmet is a rip off. They could have made the SRL2 fit, but no, now you need to buy another comms system. Not happy at all
Shoei are going to produce an adaptor that will make SRL 3 helmets like this compatible with SRL 2. Cheers, Tony
No exhaust vent....totaly bad
I absolutely HATE these helmets that can only accept a proprietary comm system of their choosing. Shoei has lost me!