Oh time passes so quickly! It’s been 30 years since Arai launched its DS (dual-sport) helmet, which features an off-road helmet-like chin bar, clear visor and rounded shell that Arai is famous for. When the first Arai
Arai’s XD-4 first launched in 2012, and it has been a popular choice among ADV drivers ever since. With a steadfast adherence to the “glance” philosophy, whereby the spherical shape of the helmet helps redirect impact energy, as well as the “protection first” prime directive, Arai does not release helmets very often new and not following fads. It’s been a long wait but the new XD-5 is finally here.
The XD-5 starts with a Peripheral Belt Composite Structure (PB-cLc2) fiberglass housing, which features a super fiber belt along the forehead to reinforce the area above the eyepiece. The shell of the XD-5 flares an extra 5mm around the opening to make the helmet slide on and off more easily.
The XD-5 features the latest version of Arai’s variable axis faceplate system and Pinlock-ready VAS-A, which maximizes surface area for improved object visibility. Above the forehead is a new logo vent adapted from the Contour-X and enhancing ventilation in key areas. Additionally, the XD-5’s chin vent is twice as large as the XD-4’s, delivering more air to the driver’s face. All vents on the XD-5 are adjustable, but the face shield no longer incorporates vents.
Related: Arai Contour-X helmet review
On the XD-4, removing the top and faceplate requires removing four plastic screws, two on each side. The XD-5 simplifies the process with a new tool-free visor/visor mounting system that makes it easy to switch between three configurations: adventure (visor on, shield on); terrain (visor on, shielding when used with goggles); and line (shield off, shield on). The peak visor, which is rounder at the front and has less overall surface area, can also be adjusted up or down on the fly.
See all horsemanHelmet review here.
Inside the helmet is a monolithic, multi-density EPS liner and a removable, washable comfort liner with adjustable pads on the cheeks, temples and back of the head. The cheek pads feature an emergency release design, featuring a new hook-and-loop fastener to facilitate easier installation of the earphone speakers into the ear pockets. There is also a string pocket in the neck roll.
For everyday use, the most important factors are comfort, weight and ease of use. My first test of the XD-5 was two days of on-road and off-road driving. Like other Arai helmets I’ve worn, comfort was immediate and there were no hot spots. The XD-5 has a mid-oval internal head shape that fits my head very well, and the helmet is secured with the tried-and-true double D-shaped chin strap.
At 3 pounds, 13 ounces for the size Medium I tested, the XD-5 isn’t the lightest ADV helmet on the market, but its medium weight doesn’t cause any fatigue. How tired? What’s immediately noticeable is that the XD-5 feels more aerodynamic thanks to a smaller, reshaped visor and new rear spoiler. There is much less vibration and the helmet glides through the air more clearly when looking left or right at high speeds.
Overall, an already impressive premium ADV helmet made even better. The Arai XD-5 is available in XS-XXL in solid colors for $839.95-$859.95 and graphics for $949.95.
