Shoei X-14 Norick ‘04 - An Homage to the Great Japanese Rider Norick Abe

The Shoei X-14 Norick ‘04 is a replica of the helmet worn by Norick Abe during the 2004 MotoGP season. One question you may be asking, who is Norick Abe?
Norifumi “Norick” Abe was a Japanese motorcycle racer who raced in the 500cc & MotoGP era. He began his career in 1994 during a wild card appearance in the Japanese GP. Norick impressed enough to earn more wild card appearances and eventually a full-time seat in the 1995 GP Championship. In ‘95 Abe had his first podium, and his first win in ‘96. He won again in 1999 & for the last time in 2000.
Once the MotoGP era began in 2002, Norick Abe never again achieved the same level of success as he did using the 500cc 2-strokes. But Norifumi Abe was a great racer, so much so that one Valentino Rossi called himself “Rossifumi” as a nickname early in his career.
Abe tragically passed away in 2007. Rossi paid tribute to his idol in 2007, dedicating his win at the Japanese GP to Norifumi.
So that’s the background info on who Norick Abe was. But this video is about the replica helmet that he wore in 2004, his last season in MotoGP aboard the Tech 3 Yamaha.
This graphic is super choice. The use of metallic paints throughout just look amazing in the sunlight. I love the Native American motif; with the cacti, dream catcher, arrows, and cave art figures. This graphic really has levels of detail that you don’t see on modern racer’s helmets. This helmet just exudes that special vibe, because it is just so unique. Colors are incredible, and really you can wear this helmet with any bike/gear.
The Shoei X-14 is Shoei’s top-of-the-line helmet made for track use. It’s lightweight, vents well, and has amazing high-speed stability. Can you use it on the road? Yeah, sure you can. If you are in the market for a race helmet, or a lid you can wear on the street and do the occasional track day, the X-14 is definitely one to check out.
Don’t sleep on this helmet, it is truly amazing in the flesh. Looking at photos online, you don’t even know it has metallic paint. This one really needs to be seen in person to appreciate it. Norick Abe was one of Rossi’s heroes, and growing up I was always a fan of his also. I’m glad Shoei decided to release this graphic, it’s dope AF.
I’d highly recommend checking it out.
As always, stay fresh.