New kit: Arai Quantum ST

The sight of a cardboard box with my name on it is always a happy to sight to behold, but even more so when it’s a blue and white Arai box.

I’m now the proud new owner of a Quantum ST, Arai’s replacement for their popular Quantum. It’s a premium crash helmet designed for sports performance whilst also being suitable for all day touring comfort.

It’s sports DNA uses technology from Arai’s RX-7 GP race helmet, but there’s no fussy rear spoiler on the ST. Whilst I haven’t worn an RX-7 before, the comfort of the Quantum ST is certainly something I can testify too. This Arai feels super snug straight out the box.

The new ST shell offers slightly more room around the chin area than the previous design along with a longer shell and interior shape. If you tried the Quantum before and didn’t get on with it you might want to try on new ST on for size.

Fully removable interiors will help keeping it box-fresh a cinch, whilst different size interior thicknesses are available should you need a custom fit. In a worst-case scenario, an emergency release system (via two orange tabs) allows the cheek pads to slide out easily making it easier for medical staff to remove the helmet in a serious accident.

Another trick feature (and certainly a first for any helmet I’ve owned) is the pull-down chin spoiler, designed to reduce wind noise and turbulence.

After using Pinlock inserts for the past 6 years I wouldn’t look twice at a helmet that wasn’t compatible with a Pinlock (or an equivalent) anti-fog visor insert. It’s great to see a Pinlock included with the Quantum ST but a feature I really like is the recess within the Arai visor to house the anti-fog insert. This allows for a larger insert to be used offering more peripheral vision and is another improvement on the previous Quantum.

The Quantum ST, along with Arai’s 2014 Rebel and Chaser V helmets, is also supplied with a Pinlock-ready Pro Shade System worth £99. More on that here.

The Quantum ST is not yet SHARP rated (the previous Quantum scored 3/5) but with each helmet taking about 18 man-hours to build, not to mention Arai’s many years in the business, I certainly feel in safe hands.

In a mix of function and fashion this particular ‘Character Black’ design fears reflective panels on the side pods and the rear of the helmet. Plain colours come in black, white and fluorescent yellow and cost £449 whilst alternative designs demand an extra £50. A five year guarantee and free yearly service comes as standard.

Full review to come...

Model: Arai Quantum ST
Price: £449-£499
Sizes: XS/54 - XL/62

www.whyarai.co.uk