Congrats on the Shoei. But the Bell Qualifier is a well made, safe helmet. For me to call the Bell a "Starter helmet" would be like me recalling memories of my "Starter Wife" who I met when I worked at 'McDonalds' slinging burgers. She did a really nice job, but I'm able to afford more now. So on to my "Trophy Wife". >Just replaced my starter helmet (Bell Qualifier) with a Shoei RF-1200
While I love the analogy I didn't mean it like that. The Bell is a great helmet for the price I agree. I picked mine up as a budget friendly helmet to use to take the MSF class a while back and have no regrets about buying it. It didn't fit me perfectly though and I began to feel that the helmet was to loose on my head and wanted to get something that fit properly. I actually went into the store planning to get an ICON but after trying on some helmets the Shoei won out.Congrats on the Shoei. But the Bell Qualifier is a well made, safe helmet. For me to call the Bell a "Starter helmet" would be like me recalling memories of my "Starter Wife" who I met when I worked at 'McDonalds' slinging burgers. She did a really nice job, but I'm able to afford more now. So on to my "Trophy Wife". >Just saying!
I was only teasing. I've never heard anything bad concerning fit or quality from Shoei owners. Part of the enjoyment of riding is acquiring and making the habit of wearing safety gear. Why not purchase the best fit and style you can afford. If I were to gift a helmet to my daughter, son, or grandson, it would most likely be a Shoei. I've just never been able to justify the expense on myself, when a cheaper alternative is available. I'm certainly not getting any younger. Maybe next time, I'll splurge on myself.While I love the analogy I didn't mean it like that. The Bell is a great helmet for the price I agree. I picked mine up as a budget friendly helmet to use to take the MSF class a while back and have no regrets about buying it. It didn't fit me perfectly though and I began to feel that the helmet was to loose on my head and wanted to get something that fit properly. I actually went into the store planning to get an ICON but after trying on some helmets the Shoei won out.
There's lots of good reasonably priced helmets on the market. I can't afford some of these beauties either. So, I settle for a good quality helmet I can. I've a few links below for you to look over if you care to.I curently cannot afford really great helmets like your two.
I would love a lighter carbon helmet at some point.
My first was a Bell Qualifier too. The worst thing about it is the visor mechanics. The visor pops up by itself in highway speed turning my head to check blind spot, which was scary as ****. If i ride with the visor up, up to 45 mph, the visor actually comes off in one side.Congrats on the Shoei. But the Bell Qualifier is a well made, safe helmet. For me to call the Bell a "Starter helmet" would be like me recalling memories of my "Starter Wife" who I met when I worked at 'McDonalds' slinging burgers. She did a really nice job, but I'm able to afford more now. So on to my "Trophy Wife". >Just saying!