I’ve been all over the map on this. Just last week I posted in a thread on beanie helmets about how I’m claustrophobic and hate wearing helmets. So what did I do? Monday I went to Iron Pony in Columbus and bought a Shoei RF-SR. My whole aversion to wearing helmets is weird actually, seeing as how most of my 45 year motorcycling career has been spent in helmet law states and I always wore a FF. It’s only since I moved to Ohio and got used to riding without a helmet that I decided I hate wearing one. But I really do need to wear a FF if for no other reason than I’m a melanoma survivor and need the sun protection. SO, I decided maybe my problem was my helmets were cheap. I haven’t owned a really nice helmet since I retired my KRW years ago. After spending a long time in the store and trying on numerous helmets I had it narrowed down to the Bell Bullitt and the Shoei. Both the Bell and the Shoei were very comfortable and I was drawn to the retro look of the Bell but decided on the Shoei based on the salesman’s recommendation. He said he owned one of each and preferred the Shoei for long distance riding because it was quieter and just all around more deluxe. He said he preferred his Bullitt for short trips and putting around town. I guess that might be part of your answer. What kind of riding do you do? I do a lot of long distance riding and hate wind noise when I wear a helmet. I also hate having to crack open the face shield to keep from suffocating in hot weather. I’m happy to report the Shoei solves both of those issues. I got to try it out immediately, wearing it home on the interstate in hot weather and Columbus traffic. It’s very comfortable and feels lighter than it actually is. It’s the quietest helmet I’ve ever owned by a long shot, and breathes exceptionally well. I’ve only owned it two days and about 5 hours worth of combined interstate, city and country riding but based on my experience so far I would highly recommend it or one of the more high end Shoei helmets depending on your budget.

Of course, as others have said though, you have to try them on. Different helmet makers design their helmets for different shaped heads. My head just happens to be the perfect shaped head for a Shoei helmet so it fits me like a glove without any need for cheek pad replacement or any of that. Also, don’t cheap out. That was my problem before. The Shoei RF-SR was a bargain at $369. Any less than that and I doubt if I would be happy.

I tried on a bunch of helmets today. This is the one that fit really good and came highly recommended. I didn't get it because I want a black no graphics version, plus it was pretty high dollar and I need to think about it. Also it fit as a medium and all my past helmets have been large.

The shoei qwest I have heard is a great helmet but it has been replaced by the rf-sr. I tried the rf-sr on and it was great. My buddy works at cycle gear and all of the guys that work there have one. I believe it'll be my next one. I currently have a white AGV k5 and in my experience it's not any cooler because I used to have a black helmet as well. It looks awesome but I don't think it'll help with the heat too much. Some cycle gears will let you ride for 30 days I think and test run the helmet to make sure is the correct fit. Could give you some confidence.