The mid-line RF-1000 model has been Shoei's best-selling helmet since its inception back in '03, and for good reason. When you combine excellent function with superb quality at a reasonable price, the customers will follow. So it was logical to expect that the RF-1000's successor would be a sensible evolution of its solid and refined design. Why mess with success?
The new RF-1100, however, is an all-new design from the ground up. Utilizing data gleaned from the company's new state-of-the-art wind tunnel as well as input from dealers and customers, the RF-1100 bristles with new features that definitely set it apart from its predecessor. Positioned between the budget-minded TZ-R and the top-of-the-line X-11 (which is also slated to be replaced by the new X-12), the RF-1100 nonetheless continues to represent an excellent value, with some innovative solutions that break new ground in helmet design.
The shell of the RF-1100 continues to utilize Shoei's AIM+ fiber technology that is claimed to produce a lighter and stronger material, but now constructed to the new Snell 2010 standards. Also new is shell-forming technology developed from the company's VFX-W motocross helmet that allows the RF-1100 to do away with the RF-1000's plastic rear spoiler wing by incorporating the spoiler into the helmet shell's shape, all while maintaining a consistent shell thickness for proper strength and weight. The shell-forming technology also permits Shoei to offer an unprecedented five shell sizes (rather than just using different size padding) to cover the range of head sizes from XXS to XXXL.
Shoei's patented QRSA (Quick...
Shoei's patented QRSA (Quick Release Self-Adjusting) faceshield pivot base plate is an ingeniously simple setup that basically pulls the shield against the eyeport seal, ensuring a water- and windproof seal.
Shoei's Quick Release Base Plate system has always been one of our favorite shield attachment setups, allowing quick and easy faceshield replacement. The RF-1100 debuts the new evolution of that system, dubbed the QRSA (Quick Release Self-Adjusting) base plate system. The QRSA retains its predecessor's easy-to-use quick-release shield retention system, but also includes a patented spring-loaded setup for the shield pivot base plate that eliminates the need to adjust them (a feature on most helmets that probably 95 percent of helmet owners didn't know existed) to achieve a proper seal. The ingeniously simple yet sophisticated setup basically allows the base plates to pull the shield evenly across the helmet's eye port bead once the shield is closed, ensuring a secure wind and waterproof seal.