I thought you all might like a review of sorts on the Schuberth Concept
Helmet, which I've had for about 3 months. I alternate between it (a blue
one to match the faster, blue GTS--not a perfect color match, but close) and
my Arai Quantum /e.
The Concept helmet is built by Schuberth Helme, the company that built the
BMW System Helmets--which have a flip up chin bar. The helmet is made to be
used with the chin bar locked in place, NOT in the up position.
They seem to weigh about the same. The Concept has some neat features, such
as an internal sunshield that slides up into the helmet when not in use. It
is very nice to have since it is a very dark shield, though it only covers
one's eyes, while leaving a portion below unshaded--kind of like the lower
bifocal in a pair of glasses. If one does not angle their head to look down
toward the instrument cluster or the mirrors the view is unshaded.
Another interesting feature has to do with ventilation: the shield pulls out
from being flush with the helmet, so that air can enter around the entire
perimeter of the shield. Interestingly, this doesn't seem to work was well
with the stock windshield as it does with my Clearview +6. Also, the shield
seems to be made of a thinner material than the Arai's and it flexes in the
wind which the Arai's shield does not do. If I want the shield on my Arai
to be open, I simply set it there and it pretty much stays in that place no
matter what speed I'm at (certainly 90 and below). The Concept's shield will
shut on its own at any speed over about 50 or 60, though it can still be
pulled away from flush-to-the-helmet.
The Concept's chin strap is fastened by a buckle instead of a double D ring
set-up. Takes a bit of getting used to, but that's about it. I think that
the Arai is somewhat cooler when the outside temperature goes up. The
Concept has a vent in the middle of the chin bar, which when opened creates
quite a bit more wind noise. I strongly advise the wearing of earplugs with
either helmet.
Looking through the Concept's shield is like looking though a large window
(kind of like the shield on a Gold Wing) as the eye port seems to be wider
top to bottom than the Arai's--on the other hand I have put about an inch of
tape across the top of the Arai's shield to use as a sun visor--like a car
would have--it just doesn't fold up.
I like the fit--very close around the ears/cheeks and the finish is
excellent. It stank for better than 2 months of fiberglass resin, but I got
used to it. Suddenly the smell has disappeared.
I have not had the "opportunity" to test the Concept in rain, so I don't
know if it leaks. Choosing between the 2 is difficult as I like them both.
The only problem, if one calls it that is the Concept only meets the DOT
rating, not Snell's.
If I were only buying 1 helmet, then I'd call it a toss up. If you're
looking for a Snell rating then you'd have to go with Arai. All other
things being equal, I don't know which one I'd buy, unless you definitely
wanted a helmet that had a flip up chin bar--then you'd have a choice
between the Concept, Shoei, and a couple of other manufacturers.
For more info on the Concept helmet, check out the following:
http://www.schuberth-usa.com/flash/SHflash.html
Regards,
Henry S. Winokur
94 GTS1000, AMA, MRF,
Nationally Certified Riding Instructor
West Bethesda, MD USA
