Arai Defiant Helmet Review at RevZilla.com

Bold. Impudent. To challenge and boldly resist. If you thought you knew Arai, the Defiant will make you think again. The Arai Defiant takes the carefully honed DNA that has become synonymous with the name Arai and designed it for the Rebel rider. Arai is introducing a new shell construction in the Defiant that borrows tech from the Corsair V and the RX-Q. The Defiant shell construction is the PB-CLC (that's peripheral belt complex laminar composite for those who don't speak Arai). The PB-CLC adds a hyper ridge along the bottom of the helmet to keep the COG low and the weight comfortably distributed. For naked bike riders, or riders who crave more airflow, the Defiant flows air like an open face helmet through the oversized IR Chin vent. The new IR front spoiler helps aid in down force, built especially for naked bike riders, but can be appreciated by all. The features that come standard on this helmet include FCS cheekpads and comfort liner with 5mm tear away pads, a fully removable and washable Dry-Max liner and a new IR neck roll that won't take on water, reduces wind noise and makes the helmet easier to don. The Defiant will come in 5 shell sizes (all DOT and Snell approved) and and improved pull down chin spoiler has multiple positions. The Defiant also includes the MAX vision Pinlock-ready faceshield that increases visibility 5mm right and left and the Pinlock lens. The Defiant meets our need for quality and safety, but also allows our inner rebel to shine.

[RevZilla]

Yes, the speakers can actually go inside the cheekpads themselves as opposed to behind them. Also, the lip prevents a clamp mount from easily being used, but the 3M stick mount will work without issue. -CK

[RevZilla]

First bike - '00 Ducati Monster. Current rides - Monster S2R, Multistrada 1200, 12GS, VStrom 1000, and looking for a HD right now - Anthony

[RevZilla]

I had a chance to ride in the Defiant and would go with the better venting and stability there. With that said, the Shoei has more features with the drop down sun visor. -CK

[RevZilla]

Though the collar extends all the way around, there is still space between the collar and the shell to the outside. The Defiant vented much better than my Signet-Q on a VFR800, which is a more 3/4 riding position. I don't think you'll have any problem on the Fireblade. -CK

[RevZilla]

Should be solid on any naked bike, 3/4 or upright as well - Anthony

[RevZilla]

Yes, they re-named it for the US market. -CK

[RevZilla]

Well we changed the set in the last year, so that will be a good landmark to start! -CK

[RevZilla]

A few of these are in stock, but in limited sizes. We should see more trickle through over the summer. Sign up to be notified on the product detail page! -CK

[RevZilla]

The Defiant is also a nice choice for a naked bike and the vents seal well. -Hi-Viz Brian

[RevZilla]

Give our Gear Geeks a call for that one. They can contact the manufacturer and let you know the ETA. -CK

[hektor]

I know this is a crystal ball questions, but do you think Arai will ever have a Transition Shield?

[RevZilla]

The process is easy once you know how to do it, but takes a bit of practice to learn. -CK

[RevZilla]

Doesn't sound like Arai is the lid for you. What are you rocking now? - Anthony

[RevZilla]

Robert, since they just released the Pro Shade system, I doubt they will release a Transitions shield anytime soon. I hope I'm wrong. -Hi-Viz Brian

[Torquetwospec]

anthony wat do u ride? wat was ur first bike?

[wakajaw]

Thks Anthony
Great to know
My main concern regarding the defiant / rebel is related to getting more or less noise on a croucher sportier position if the helmet was devised for a more upright one

[mbaroneva]

Love the idea of this helmet. Currently have a neotec that just isn't working out. I run a Sena smh10. Will this helmet accomodate that with the shallow pockets and lip on the shell?

[The-Dark-Side-Of-The-Matrix]

Great review like always !

I have juste a question; is the Arai Rebel in Europe ?

Sorry for my bad english

[RevZilla]

Well really, what did you expect? Its not like Arai has a history of subtle branding ;-). -CK

[jonp]

I'm pushing it a little to ask but although I know that Arai has made it clear they don't endorse listening to music while riding but would you indulge us in the future and provide slightly more detail or info on speaker or Bluetooth options for the Defiant or Arai helmets in general?