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Quality of fit and finish, sizing peculiarities. Arai and Shoei for example fit two distinctly different shapes of head (or at least they used too.)
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Once you've had good ones it's hard to go back. I used to think you had an Arai or Shoei shape head but I've switched between Arai and Shoei and for me they are both good fits once they break in a little on the cheek pads. Shuberth really does suit a smaller forehead though, they are well known for it.
Usually the differences are in the material the outer and inner are made of, optical quality of the visor, lower wind noise, washable/replaceable interiors, buckle quality, and paint quality. Ease of operation for the visor change mechanism, vent operation, buckle and sunshade operation.
I think the worst value in terms of functionality and quality are the expensive stylish open face helmets, especially those with no visor. For the same sort of money you could have a high end full face lid weighing less than a leather trimmed hat with a fancy paint job. Fine if you don't need the protection but not the wisest choice.
Downside with expensive lids is the time limit on using them, even if your Arai lasts 20 years you are not supposed to use them longer than 5-10 years as the materials of the shell and inner lose their strength.
You really notice the difference if you're riding at 100+ for a few hours, can you turn your head easily at 100 to check over your shoulder, is the helmet deafening does it stay steady or bob around/tip up in the airstream.
If you can stand the weight the Shoei Neotec is a great lid.
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I always buy cheap lids, and the main difference I can see is that a cheap lid tends to have fewer niceties. I've a cheap Bullitt copy and it fogs up like crazy because there are no vents in it. I tried the actual Bullitt on and no fogging at all because it's covered in vents. Both felt about as safe in terms of impact protection (insomuch as you can tell by repeatedly headbutting the shop wall before the sales staff drag you out) but the Bullitt definitely felt like it was built to last.
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Jung
Airhead
ReekBlefs
@Chak
Is there any wisdom in getting an expensive lid? I'm well aware of the safety standards that all have to abide by, and the more the better, but what makes something like a Shoei pricier than a HJC or similar? Options, quality and the like?
Lids are something I have no qualms spending money on, but is it something there wisdom to it?