Arai Tour X5 Helmet Review

Introduction

I haven’t worn an Arai in a long time, although slipping my head into the new Arai Tour X5 was like sliding my feet into a set of comfortable old shoes–it felt just right. Reading up about the new model ‘cos I hadn’t had the old version, it turns out the X5 is a complete redesign of Arai’s adventure helmet, and it’s gained a few tricks along the way.

Arai Tour X5 Construction

Made from a complex laminate construction means the shell is seriously strong while also retaining some flexibility to absorb hits. The helmet shape is designed to glance off impacts easily, while the vents and peaks will come off in the event of an accident to reduce the chance of a rotational neck injury.

There’s a new visor system, meaning you can remove and replace the visor easily without tools, and you get a larger, clearer field of view as a result of some design changes.

Arai Tour X5 Interior

The visor is also Pinlock compatible, even the sexy smoke one I immediately swapped the clear visor out for, hehe. Ventilation is a big deal with adventure helmets, as chances are we’re going to be pushing or lifting a bike at some point, and the X5 has some cool features to get more air through to the rider, like a duct in the 3D Arai logo on the brow and a large three position chin vent.

There’s even an inner shutter which enables you to direct air in different directions and a retractable chin spoiler which helps reduce wind intrusion. Inside is all removable and washable as you’d imagine with a premium helmet, plus gets an emergency release system (ERS) for when it all goes wrong and a paramedic removes cheek pads with the helmet still on, making it easier for them to get it off.

The base of the X5 is also 10mm wider, making it easier still to get on and off. The final trick of the new X5 is that it’s now a multi-purpose helmet, with the ability to run it without the visor but with goggles for the true off-road experience, or you can leave the visor on and remove the peak, turning the X5 into an aggressive looking street helmet. And adding the optional smoked visor makes this look especially cool.

What’s next?

I’m looking forward to heading off on many adventures wearing the new X5, especially as it’s so comfortable inside. Plus, I was pleased to see the smooth design at the sides, which made it easy to mount an intercom system, while pockets inside meant the speakers tucked away nicely.