6 Arai Chaser-x £439.99 graphics from £524.99 www.whyarai.co.uk
Undeniably heavy, the Arai is old-school in its looks with a big, chunky, head vent and the firm’s usual ‘new’ visor removal system. If you know what you are doing, it is quick and easy; if not, it can be challenging. As well as the top vent, the Chaser-x comes with two visor vents and chin and exhaust vents. Lacking an integrated sun visor, the Chaser-x does get an emergency release system, speaker pockets and ample room for glasses’ arms.
On the road, although extremely comfortable, it does feel weighty when compared to the other lids, especially the carbon ones. That said, this does make it feel substantial; reassuring if safety is your focus. The Chaser is quieter than most Arais but is still quite loud, especially if you open its effective chin vent. If you buy on safety and don’t mind the weight, you will like the Arai but it does feel behind the game in terms of features.