As successor to the X-Spirit, this Shoei X-SPR Pro is not only the advanced continuation of a MotoGP-worthy full-face helmet for every motorbike rider; it has also been certified according to the most recent ECE 22/06-certification.
With the X-SPR Pro, you as ‘aficionada’ are provided with the same material as world champions Marc and Alex Márquez, who have long before entrusted Shoei with their safety. We usually take this type of promotion with a large grain of salt but in this case, it won’t be too far off. The X-SPR Pro is a phenomenal motorcycle helmet, nonetheless. We are happy to hear that even the high-end riders just take their X-SPR Pro from the shelf, put it on and step on their bikes.
The outer shell is still made of AIM+, an organic, multi-composite glass fibre. That this was developed in order to be both firm and shock-absorbing, needs no further explanation. The different helmet sizes are divided over no less than 4 different helmet shells. This delivers a very tight, compact and logically, a very comfortable motorbike helmet. The scales show 1450 grams and this small increase compared to its predecessor can be found – among other things – in a renovated ventilation system. Still, 1450 grams is surprisingly low for this much high-quality protection. Especially since you don’t really notice the weight.
In the front (below and above the visor), there are seven ventilation openings to set and operate. Six openings in the aerodynamic spoiler guide riding wind out again, which passes through the cheek pads on the way out. These cheek pads are part of the total ventilation package and specifically for the airflow. They come in three thicknesses. Almost the complete interior of the Shoei X-SPR Pro has been constructed modularly, which means that it is customisable and interchangeable. Evidently, the ventilation is ‘racing approved’.
It should come as no surprise that there are a couple of aerodynamic items. The Shoei X-SPR Pro is racing gear (and FIM-homologated) and has seen more than a single wind tunnel. Every groove, every millimetre of the spoiler, every opening is in function of better aerodynamics. The ‘wings’ are familiar to those who know the X-Spirit II and the X-Spirit III. Especially with the latter, the shaking and moving at high speeds were excellently under control, which is the same way for the X-SPR Pro. Let’s put everything in perspective: Shoei looked at and investigated the aerodynamic (and other) qualities of the X-SPR Pro up to speeds of 350km/h.
It's best to watch out at high speeds. The new ‘fog-delaying’ CWR-F2R Pinlock® visor is an absolute asset here. A Pinlock® EVO-lens is supplied in the box. Tear-offs fit effortlessly, which is – obviously – no coincidence. Optionally, there are a number of visors to use that may or may not be tear-off-ready. The double safety when closed is once again an illustration of the racing ambitions, justifiably owned by this helmet. The central safety is assisted by an extra, manual slider.
The removable, washable and hypoallergenic lining is easy to maintain and like we said before, modularly structured to enable individual customisation. A wide neck rim, the adjustable closure by means of a double D ring and the E.Q.R.S. (Emergency Microlock System) which allows to take off your helmet in case of emergency come standard. A breath deflector and wind curtain chin are supplied and can be used at your will.
The reflective stickers to stick on the helmet, obligatory in France, are supplied as well.
For maintenance of this helmet we recommend S100 helmet and visor cleaner for the outside. For cleaning the interior, without removing it, you can use S100 helmet interior cleaner. New visors have received a water-repellent treatment. This treatment is less effective after some time. Restore the water-repellent effect with Rain-X anti-rain spray.
Safety above all! Never ride with a scratched or dull visor. Especially at night, scratches and dullness may cause a blinding reflection of street lights and headlights of oncoming traffic. This is even more pronounced during rainy weather. It is best to replace a scratched or dull visor as quickly as possible. Planning a longer trip? Don’t forget to take a replacement visor with you. Never ride in the dark with a tinted visor.
