To test the new Shoei Neotec 3 modular motorcycle helmet, I pulled it out of the box, installed the Pinlock anti-fog insert, and wore it for nine straight days while riding over 4,200 miles through four states – all day, every day for 12-14 hours in temperatures ranging from freezing to 100-plus, in headwinds, tailwinds, and crosswinds, and in mostly dry conditions but also pouring rain. How did it do?
Now in its third generation, the Shoei Neotec 3 is an evolution of one of the most popular premium modular helmets. When the first Neotec debuted in 2012, it replaced the Multitec, and each generation has brought refinements and new features.
Shoei used wind-tunnel testing to improve the shell’s aerodynamics. It has more sculpted contours above the faceshield, new side plates between the flip-up chinbar and the shell, and a more pronounced rear spoiler to help smooth airflow. At highway speeds, the Neotec 3 slices cleanly through the air while looking straight ahead or side to side.
The shell is made using Shoei’s proprietary, three-layer Advanced Integrated Matrix, which includes fiber-reinforced matrix, compound structure (layers of organic and glass fibers), and synthetic resin. Inside the shell is a multidensity EPS liner that optimizes impact absorption in key areas. The rotating chinbar has two fully open positions, and the higher of the two requires a stronger pull to close the chinbar.
The weight of the medium helmet I tested is 4 lb, 1.5 ounces, which is 0.5 ounce lighter than my Neotec II, and it never feels heavy on my head. In fact, like most high-quality helmets, I usually forget that I’m wearing it.
The Neotec 3’s updated faceshield provides a better airtight seal, and it does a fantastic job of keeping out wind and rain. It also has a new central locking mechanism with a release button, but occasionally the shield is difficult to lock closed, and it doesn’t always have a noticeable click to let me know it is locked. The drop-down sunshield is now 5mm taller for more vertical coverage, and it has a prominent slider on the left side of the helmet that’s easy to operate.
Neotecs have always been comfortable helmets, and the Neotec 3 is no exception. It has a plush comfort lining with cheek pads that use Noise Isolators and a snug neck roll to keep out wind and noise. The interior fit can be customized with different crown and cheek pads, and there are removable ear pads over the speaker pockets. Shoei also updated the ventilation system and the micro-ratchet chinstrap.
Built into the bottom edge of the Neotec 3 are plug-and-play installation points for the optional Shoei Comlink helmet communicator ($359), which uses Sena’s SRL3 Mesh Intercom 2.0 Bluetooth system, Harmon Kardon speakers, and a noise-cancelling microphone.
Except for the niggling issue of the faceshield locking mechanism, the Shoei Neotec 3 does everything I want a good modular helmet to do. Even after wearing it every day for more than a week straight, it was consistently comfortable, easy to use, and quiet. Like my Neotec II, I’ll be wearing it for years to come. The Neotec 3 is available in sizes XS-2XL (spread over three shell sizes) in solid colors for $899.99 and graphics for $999.99.
Loved my Neotec 1. Not a fan of my Neotec 2. More noise and ventilation not nearly as effective as in the previous gen version.
Found a deal on a Schuberth C5, which has received a plethora of accolades. We’ll see how it goes, as I’ve been a Shoei guy for so many years.
I just replaced the face shield, inner liner and cheek pads on my Neotec 1. I was able to find OEM parts which thankfully are still available. It fits and looks like brand new and saves me hundreds. Hopefully it’ll continue to serve me well into the future. Call me frugal but helmets aren’t cheap.
I was disappointed with the Neotec 2. Way too expensive for what you get. There was so much hype about how quiet it was, but I didn’t find it noticeably quitter than either of the Arai helmets I had before. I got T-boned by a rideshare driver and retired the Shoei because of the impact on it. While waiting for insurance money to come in, I bought an inexpensive (relatively) modular helmet. Sedici Sistema II Helmet. I found it easily as quiet and comfortable as the Neotec, and the Sedici costs a third the price of the Shoei. I know, people say the Shoei is going to be safer, but in reality, both the Sedici and the Shoei are DOT certified, while only the Sedici is also meets ECE 22.05 (European) standards. So, while I intended the Sedici to be only temporary, it has become my Go to helmet for the last two years. Urban commuting and interstate touring. The only think I liked better about the Shoei is the optical quality of the drop down sun shield was better in the Shoei and the I prefer Shoei’s ratchet closure over the Sedici D-ring. But I upgraded to a photochromic visor and don’t need the drop-down lense. I’m taking the time to make this long note because when I find an outstanding product, I like to share the news.