Distributor: Forbes and Davies | Tester: Paul | Price: $1595 | Check It: www.forbesanddavies.co.nz
It’s been a long time since I’ve worn Arai’s flagship helmet, the RX-7. Yet, sliding on the new Blade Red RX-7V EVO was like stepping back into your favourite pair of shoes, with the fit and feel just as I remember from my first RX-7 many years ago.
The model has been around for many years, with Arai tweaking and improving the design over the decades, with their long-held reputation for obsessive attention to detail and uncompromising safety standards shining through in this latest evolution of their flagship helmet. And with this latest version getting the upgrade to meet the more stringent ECE R22-06 specification, it’s now safer than ever while still retaining the characteristics that have distinguished the RX-7 over the years.
Fit and Comfort
The RX-7V EVO is supremely comfortable — up there as one of the best-fitting helmets I’ve worn. The sculpted interior padding provides a snug, secure feel without pressure points, and Arai’s signature ergonomic shell shape hugs the contours of my head with precision. Even after hours in the saddle, I felt no trace of fatigue or discomfort, which speaks volumes about the helmet’s long-ride credentials.
Build Quality
As you’d expect from Arai, the build quality is simply excellent. Every component, from the visor mechanism to the vent sliders, operates with buttery smoothness and a satisfying click. The multi-density EPS liner, reinforced shell structure, and handmade finish all reflect the premium price tag — but more importantly, they reinforce the brand’s commitment to safety and durability.
Performance on the Road
The RX-7V EVO excels in real-world riding. The aerodynamic shape keeps buffeting to a minimum at speed, while the ventilation system is outstanding, especially on warmer days. Airflow through the top and chin vents is effective without being noisy, and the visor provides excellent field of vision with a smooth, easy-to-use and secure locking system. The visor-changing system isn’t quite as simple as I remembered from the earlier versions where you almost ripped the visor out of the side pods, but then many owners were too scared to attempt to change the visor for fear of breaking the system. So the new mechanism makes it much more sympathetic to the sidepods, which are detached using a toolless system.
Tech
Arai has designed the RX-7V to have a smooth exterior shape that increases the ability to glance off energy, even going to the extent of lowering the visor mounting position by 24mm for optimum shape. There’s a new latch taken from Arai’s F1 helmet, so you can be fairly certain it’s unlikely to come undone at speed. A Pinlock is also included to prevent steaming in cooler weather. Improved aerodynamics include a ‘Free Flow System’ that channels air under the helmet to reduce wind noise while also increasing the exhaust of hot air, while the unique pull-down chin spoiler also does a good job of reducing wind blast. I’m not too sure of the effectiveness of the adjustable rear spoiler, but hey, it looks cool!
Final Thoughts
Arai hasn’t reinvented the wheel with the RX-7V EVO — and they didn’t need to. What they’ve done is refine a proven formula to near perfection. For riders who value top-tier comfort, flawless craftsmanship, and premium protection, the RX-7V EVO is one of the best helmets money can buy. With a number of different colour options available, including the classic Mick Doohan paint job, I really like the design of the Blade Red. At $1595, it’s certainly an investment when it comes to a helmet. But there’s no denying that you can feel the quality and refinement that has come from years of perfecting this awesome lid. I’m looking forward to many more kilometres on the road wearing the RX-7V.
If you’re the kind of rider who invests in quality gear for peace of mind and peak performance, the RX-7V EVO belongs at the top of your list.
If you are looking for a dealer or the colour options available, then head to www.forbesanddavies.co.nz, where you’ll find the complete range and where you can get them from near you.
