The Shoei Z-7 full-face helmet was a success story, given its features, comfort and price point. But the advent of the new UN ECE R22.06 makes it necessary for an update in the form of the new Shoei NXR 2 (or Z-8 in certain markets).

Some of the the NXR 2's features:

• Composite fibre full face helmet.

• All rounder sport-touring lid.

• ECE 22.06 certified.

• SHARP 5 Star rated (UK/EU helmet).

• Snell 2020 certified (US DOT helmet)

• Pinlock Evo antifog insert included.

• Double-D ring fastener.

• New quick release visor.

• Emergency Quick Release System (EQRS) liner.

• Sizes XS-XXL (four shells).

• Weighs 1.4Kg (3.1lbs).

As with the Z-7, the NXR 2 is an all-rounder helmet meant for the daily commute and sport-touring. Thus it provides features for all-day comfort and safety. On the other hand, you would need the Shoei X-Spirit III for trackdays or racing.

Safety

This is the obvious place to start.

The NXR 2 comes in four shell sizes for optimised fitment. It goes without saying that the better fit, the better it is for safety and comfort.

The EPS is a dual layer multi-density shock absorbing liner. Multi-density liners are better at absorbing a range of impact strengths and managing the shock.

Double D-ring fasteners are used to keep the helmet firmly on your head. The EQRS cheekpads help paramedics remove the helmet more easily should the untoward happens.

The NXR 2's shell uses Shoei’s AIM shell technology which is shared with helmets like the Neotec II and GT Air II, compared to the AIM+ on the VFX-WR and X-Spirit III.

It scored a maximum of 5 stars in SHARP's independent testing, and is similarly certified to SNELL 2020, apart from the pre-requisite ECE R22.06 standard.

Visor and vision

There is a new base plate for the visor. While it retains Shoei's visor quick change feature, the plate also holds the visor down more securely to stop wind ingress which causes noise. Speaking of noise, the visor has vortex generators to reduce wind noise further.

The aperture (eye port opening) is also bigger to allow for better vision. Covering this aperture is the new optically correct visor as mandated by R22.06, while the lock has been moved to the central position to allow easier access with either hand.

Ventilation

If the Shoei Z-7 had great ventilation, the NXR 2's is even better.

While it retains the same layout of three crown and two chin bar vents, the upper vent holes are bigger along with an additional intake hole. The exhaust vent is also bigger now.

Pricing

Official Shoei importer and distributor in Malaysia, Sinar Puncak Sdn. Bhd. had released the expected prices of the new Shoei NXR2:

Plain - RM 2400

• Black 
• White
• Basalt Grey
• Matt Black
• Matt Blue Metallic 

Graphic - RM 2899

• Accolade TC-10
• Mural TC-10
• Prologue TC-1
• Scanner TC-5

Rider - RM 2980

• MM93 Collection Rush
• MM93 Retro

Please visit these authorised Shoei dealers.