International Dealer News IDN 146 December 2018 / January 2019 | Page 48

PRO GuIDe extRa
Arai migrates its Variable
Axis System technology
to a new SZ open-face
Show season saw Arai unveil three updates or new
helmets to its 2019 range - Urban-V, Profile-V and a
new SZ open-face - the SZ-R VAS (Variable Axis
System).
Arai launched its first generation SZ open-face
helmet in 1988 - aimed at the busy urban riding
environment of downtown Tokyo. It has constantly
evolved over the last 30 years, with each generation
of SZ model “majoring on comfort, convenience and,
of course, protection” and since its debut it has
“become a favourite in Europe for professional
riders, tourers and commuters alike”.
SZ-R VAS
Based on
its experience with the SZ Ram-X,
especially in Paris, the ‘VAS’ designation refers to
Arai’s Variable Axis System’, as already seen in four
full-face models - a technology that is designed to
improve the impact protection and “glancing-off
ability in a critical area”.
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The completely redesigned compact PB-CLC2 shell
(the same as used in QV-Pro) is reinforced by a SF
(Super Fibre) belt in the front and at the back
to make it even stronger.
The VAS shield is 14 mm lower than the
previous design, to keep the shell round
and smooth for better glancing-off
properties in this area. Compared to the
previous visor, the VAS design has an
extended shape to offer better visibility
and improve wind protection.
Thanks to the dual system, the visor
can be opened and closed much more
easily and there is the possibility to add
a Pinlock (as an option). There is also
the option to use the PRO Shade sun
visor, which up until now has only been
available on the Arai’s full-face helmets -
the brow vents have been redesigned and
the new shape is said to be easier to operate and
features a more efficient air intake.
The Diffusers (DF # 12) are the same type as used on
the range-topping RX-7V. The angle of the fixed aero
wing has been revised to be more in line with the
shape of the diffuser in order to improve stability and
reduce rider fatigue.
With the new speaker-ready interior and cheek pads,
the contact points on the rider’s head have been
distributed more evenly for a new feeling that is said
INTERNATIONAL DEALER NEWS - DECEMBER 2018 / JANUARY 2019
to gently wrap the entire head and prove to be a
better fit for long, oval heads. The cheek pad shape
has also been modified to firmly hold each cheek
(Facial Contour System/FCS). They feature the 5 mm
peel-away layer to customise the helmet for a perfect
fit. There is also a slit in the foam to make it easier
to put on glasses.
An extra water-resistant layer has been added to the
cheek pad foam to protect from the rain. There is also
a foam piece added to the cheek pad to keep the ear
pocket in place and remove pressure, further
improving comfort. There is also a recess padded
ready to receive a speaker; to hear it better and to
reduce wind noise, foam has been added around the
chinstrap.
The SZ-R VAS uses Arai’s original Super Fibre belt,
which prevents the shell from cracking-in when a
strong impact hits at the eye-opening area - it was
originally developed for F1 helmets. PB-CLC2 is the
same construction as used on the QV-Pro, the
company’s top touring model. The SZ-R VAS also uses
a new resin, which is said to be “extremely rigid”,
but still finishes up lighter than before; the SZ-R VAS
is also designed with a low centre of gravity.
Arai says the “smooth form” they favour makes it
easier to glance-off and keep sliding. Internal air flow
management has been improved - riding induces air
to the forehead area and cools it dramatically. The
new visor shape is said to give a clearer view that is
more comfortable for the eyes and offers even less
distortion compared with the previous visor shape.
The new interior is constructed from antimicrobial
material with deodorant and anti-fouling function.
The cheek pads and interior are fully replaceable and
adjustable.
Urban-V
The new Arai Urban-V open-face helmet “blends
classic style with cutting-edge Arai protection,
comfort and ventilation technology - it is old school
and new school all at once, a classic retro-style open-
face helmet, rich in period details like traditional
stitched faux leather edge trim and interior accents.
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