Open up and explore with the Shoei Neotec 3

Offering the versatility of two helmets in one, superior aerodynamics and ECE22.06 certification, the Neotec 3 is Shoei’s first major release for 2023 and is now available in Australia.

A modular helmet offers many advantages to the everyday commuter and tourer, providing full face protection as well as open face convenience; something that comes in very handy during group rides and training situations.

Shoei Australia Brand Manager, Damien Irwin, noted that with the changes required for the ECE 22.06 update, many manufacturers have had to significantly increase the helmet size, but that’s not the case with the Neotec 3. “I’m impressed at the size, shape and weight. ECE22.06 has increased the size of many helmets in general while the Neotec 3 has only increased around 26 grams”.

“The improvements on the Neotec 3 are pretty obvious once you put it on, and more so when you jump on the bike. You definitely notice the comfort straight away and the aerodynamics at work, plus the very low level of wind noise”, said Damien.

Shoei’s constant drive to improve the helmet experience was driven by a new factor for the Neotec 3; the design needed to ensure superior aerodynamics and styling whilst achieving the new ECE22.06 certifications and P&J homologation.

The recent ECE22.06 certification update is a welcome improvement to the previous 20-year-old industry standard, with helmets now having to pass additional tests using random points of impact with a mix of directional and rotational impacts. As a result, helmets across the industry are now safer but can also be significantly larger and heavier. The Shoei Neotec II surpassed the previous ECE 22.05 by such a margin that the Neotec 3 has only gained a small increase in size along with a few grams in weight.

As you’d expect from a premium level helmet brand, safety is paramount. The Neotec 3’s internal liner is made with a multi-density EPS foam providing excellent shock absorption. The outer shell is the first line of defence, reducing and absorbing shock with its AIM five-layer composite shell, utilising fibreglass and organic fibres to create a lightweight and strong external layer.

With its modular design, the Neotec 3 also needed to meet P&J homologation, allowing the helmet to be safe with the chin bar in both the lower and raised positions. The pivot system is made of stainless steel for secure locking of the face cover and is easily operated with a single button on the base of the chin bar.

The Neotec 3 is exceptionally comfortable, with updates to the interior liner and chin strap playing a big part in this. Externally, an integrated spoiler and shaping on the chin bar and base directs and deflects wind. At speed, the spoiler and base design reduce drag and lift on the helmet while also reducing turbulence. This is ideal for longer rides, reducing neck fatigue and helping you stay more focused in the saddle. With the help of their inhouse wind tunnel, Shoei’s developers were able to test and refine every new concept.

The Neotec 3 now features a new visor with centre closure to improve the visor seal, providing improved weather protection. Internally, the larger internal sun visor comes down 5mm lower, offering greater light protection and improved vision.

With the helmet on and the bike moving, the low noise is instantly noticeable - not just for a modular helmet but for a motorcycle helmet in general. Damien pointed out that while the sound from wind passing over the helmet has been reduced by the new shell improvements, in most cases sound comes from the base of the helmet between your neck and the padding.

“This is where Shoei has really refined the internal padding with Noise Isolator technology, providing a super soft interior which adds to the overall comfort of the helmet, while also creating a better seal at the rear of the helmet than previously, despite the ability to move the chin bar and open the helmet,” he said.

Aerodynamics also played a major role in the integration of the Shoei Comlink communications systems. Like its predecessor, the Neotec 3 features the ability to install an integrated comms system, in this case the SENA SRL-3 (sold separately), with no external units or distraction to the helmet design and aerodynamics. Utilising a combination of Mesh and Bluetooth technologies, the SRL-3 can connect into a group ride, stream music and make following GPS directions a breeze. The simple interface is seamlessly designed into the side of the helmet with dedicated space internally for wiring, speakers, antenna and the battery.

No matter where you’re riding or the distance you’re covering, ventilation is key, and the Neotec 3 draws through a massive amount of air; with a top mounted scoop, and chin and brow vents, you can feel the plumes of air burrowing over your head and out the rear exhaust vents.

Rider feedback brought on the inclusion of insect mesh within the chin vents for those early morning and late afternoon rides on country roads, which will be greatly appreciated. Another fan request was to reduce the size of the stainless-steel micro-ratcheting chinstrap, which is now smaller and less bulky while still being easy to operate, even with gloves.

Sized from XS-2XL utilising three shell sizes and four EPS sizes for the perfect fit for each head size, longer internal sun visor, multiple tint and spectra options of the external visor, six solid colours and two graphics with many more to come, the Neotec 3 is priced from $1,299.90 and is available now from your local motorcycle dealer and accessories retailers.

Released with the long-awaited GT-AIR 3, further information about the Neotec 3 and the wider Shoei range is available at premiumhelmets.com.au or check out the range in our shop.