I liked the old Shoei Multitec’s modular helmet design, but at first glance the no-nonsense looks of the Neotec ($648.99) impressed me when I first saw it. After looking at the helmet for quite some time I noticed that the Neotech has improved aerodynamics, a wider and taller field of vision with a Pinlock visor, and an internal slide-down sun shield.
Outside, the Neotech has the famed Shoei DOT-approved shell construction that combines fiberglass with organic fibers making it strong and light.
Inside the helmet is a dual-layer EPS liner, which provides impact absorption by utilizing varying densities of foam. Covering up all that good stuff is a fully removable, washable, and replaceable liner system.
When I dawned the helmet and got it up to speed there was little to no buffeting and a vast reduction in wind noise over the old Multitec. I was told this streamlining was done by the designers of the Neotech, who spent countless hours in the wind tunnel. I can say that their tweaking paid off, because the end product is a very quiet helmet for a modular.
The Neotec has a good balance between airflow and silence. The single three-position upper vent does a great job getting air in when needed. The lower vent shutter also did a fine job letting air in and was easy to adjust even with bulky riding gloves.
When the helmet is flipped up in the open position there is plenty of room for adjusting glasses, picking noses, or yelling at cage drivers, and when the chin bar is slammed shut the stainless steel 360-degree Pivot Locking System feels very secure.
Though the Neotec looks suspiciously similar to my favorite modular helmet, the Shuberth C3 (I am sure it is just a coincidence), it is big upgrade over its predecessor, the Multitech. The quality, fit, and finish is purley Shoei and if you are looking for a flip-up skid lid, the Neotec should be at the top of your looky list.
shoei.com