Throughout any biker’s journey is the act of choosing his Lids. The brand, the fit, the function and the style. Of course, every rider has different needs but if we can help you decide the right helmet for you, then that’s a bonus.
Here at Moto Central we’ll be going through a comparison between the AGV and SHOEI motorcycle helmets. We’ll look at their brands and one of their pinnacle lids: The AGV X3000 and the SHOEI GT-AIR II
- AGV X3000
If we take a look at AGV’s contribution to the health and safety of motorcyclists across the globe, we’ll find ourselves looking at the driving force of modern helmets.
Founded in 1947, it is a step ahead of the curb when it comes to rival manufacturers such as SHOEI.
AGV (formally known in the industry as Amisano Gino Valenza) is innovation: thinking back to when the company created the first fiberglass shell in 1954. Then leading onto the implementation of the ‘jet’ helmet as the norm, superseding the classic ‘shorty’.
The AGV X3000 is another pioneering accomplishment for AGV’s development where comfort, style, protection and ventilation were at the heart of this lid. The design also features a contoured chin piece reminiscent of Champion Grand Prix motorcycle racer Agostini’s.
So, if you’re in the market for a piece of modern history, then you’ll want to feature the AGV X3000 as part of your gear. Check out the Barry Sheen Replica Helmet
But, again, if you’re style hits up any of the other AGV full-face lids, then check out some of their other current models:
- Pista GP RR
- Pista GP R
- Corsa R
- K6
- K5 S
- Veloce S
- AX9
- X3000
- SHOEI GT-Air II
Let’s begin by having a little look into the SHOEI brand and one of their key lids. As a dedicated manufacturer of motorcycling safety since 1958, they have been pioneers in the engineering community.
According to SHOEI directly; “Faulty products are practically unheard of” and “every single piece reflects the spirit, ambition and attention to detail that is so typical of SHOEI”. So, you can rest assured knowing that SHOEI will have you – and your skull – covered.
The GT-Air II has been specifically designed to improve aerodynamics, enhance ventilation and incorporate noise-reduction technology. And, they have accomplished this triumphant feat without compromising on the style or comfort.
It is the perfect answer to any condition: urban or sports. But, if you’re after a more tailored option to your biking, the brand offers unbeaten technical engineering on their other models. Check them out:
- X-Spirit III
- NXR
- VFX-WR
- GT-Air II
- NeoTec II
- J-Cruise II
- Glamster
- Ex-Zero
- RYD
- J-O
- Hornet ADV
- TR-3
- Style
Both the SHOEI GT-Air II and the AGV X3000 are full-face motorcycle helmets featuring aerodynamic improvement, visor ratchet systems and lightweight fiberglass innovation.
But, first let’s just have a quick look at the aesthetics. You’d be lying if you said this never swayed a purchase.
In basic terms, the GT-Air II has a modern face with curves and grooves to establish a strong aerodynamic flow. While the X3000, on the other hand, lends itself to a vintage helmet shape reminiscent of their more traditional motorcycle helmets.
Now, although SHOEI offers more design options for the GT-Air II, AGV’s simplistic pattern for their X3000 has allowed them to incorporate limited edition styles based on motorcycling legends such as Giacomo Agostini: The X3000 Limited Edition AGO 01.
- Ventilation
Nobody likes a hot-head, ventilation is key for the fresh breeze and to stay on-form. Both the AGV and SHOEI motorcycle helmets have slightly modified their shells to allow for improved airflow from their predecessors.
The GT-Air II, for example has both the enlarged chin vent, large crown vent and two rear vents for air-flow escape. Not only this, but SHOEI has incorporated a slightly ‘cracked’ visor, meaning the position of this enlarged visor allows for quicker demisting.
AGV’s X3000 ventilation is a little simpler; they have a crown vent as well as some other holes in the shell that allow for airflow. However, they have not incorporated a chin-vent but instead opted to keep to retro-styles and have a thin chin bar.
So, overall the airflow appears to be best in the GT-Air II but that doesn’t mean to say that the X3000’s ventilation is not good; it is.
- Comfort
When it comes to comfort, there’s no two ways about it; no matter whether you’re going for an urban ride or receiving a love nudge from a fellow racer. You’ll always need to be comfortable in your helmet.
This can come from many areas; how snug the lid is to your head, the weight of the helmet, how large the visor is, the ventilation or the optional extras. (I’m looking at you, GT-Air II with your Sena SRL-2 Bluetooth shell incorporation).
So, without further ado: the AGV X3000 is 1.305KG (in the first shell size) and the SHOEI GT-Air II is 1.45KG (In the medium shell size). Meaning, they’re not too dissimilar and they’re both very good weights to hold in a racing helmet.
Not only this, but both brands offer three shell sizes with their helmets. SHOEI then extends this to incorporate a further 6 interior lining sizes, so there’s no question about finding the right fit. While AGV’s X3000 has been known to be a little snug at first but then nicely moulds to the wearers head with time.
Furthermore, in terms of noise level, some riders have mentioned that the AGV’s X3000 is good for legal limits but can get a little noisier after that while others have mentioned that SHOEI’s new noise cancelling ear pads have made a world of difference.
Now, this could be down to the fact of AGV’s retro styling for the X3000 meaning its less-aerodynamic features have caused air flow to enter the helmet more than usual.
Either way, we’ve heard good things for both motorcycle helmets.
Wait, did we mention that the X3000 has a suede interior? Yeah, we’ll let that stir with you for a moment.
- Safety
Let’s begin with SHOEI: they’re using their tried and tested AIM (advanced Integrated Mix) for the shell which incorporates multiple layers if different fibres. They’ve also lined the GT-Air II with a polystyrene layer designed to absorb shock at all fatal angles.
The GT-Air II also features an EQRS (emergency quick release system) and pinlock ready visor so you can always see what dangers lie ahead.
And, now, the X3000’s turn: as the safest helmet brand across the globe, we have high hopes. Their retro style has never let them down. They have used a double-D ring faster as their retention system and added a scratch-resistant visor to the mix.
It may appear as though SHOEI’s safety features triumph overall. But, knowing AGV’s consistent safety ratings since they began is a sure relaxer.
Here at Moto Central, we want you to know that your motorcycle helmet is typically a question of personal choice. And, while one may have shined brighter for you in this comparison, we value both brands equally as well as their efforts towards safety on the road.
The fantastic thing about these two helmets is that they both offer the rider comfort, durability and protection above all. So, no matter which of these amazing brands you choose to splash the cash on, you’ll rest assured knowing your head will remain in-tact.