Over the last few years, I’ve struggled to find a good street helmet. The one I had was fine for short rides, but I found that on long rides it was creating a pressure point on my head. I knew I needed a different size, but I didn’t want to go with the same brand because I wasn’t a fan of how it fit my head. So I got a different, reasonably priced helmet. I found that it was noisy and it also didn’t fit well.

I have owned a Shoei dirt helmet, the VFX-W, for a few years. When I lived in California, I had the opportunity to have my head measured at Shoei headquarters. (Turns out I’m a size XS, and buying the right size has made a big difference. This is why I recommend buying helmets at a dealership so you can try them on, rather than ordering online.) Getting properly sized made all the difference, along with the shape of the Shoei shell. I have been very happy with the fit of the VFX-W, and my expectations were that satisfaction would translate to a comparable Shoei street model.

I tested that theory with the Shoei RF-1200. I got the Incision TC-6 graphics.

Comfort is an area where the RF-1200 shines. The liner is incredibly comfortable, and it’s fully removable and washable. I use the chin curtain to help with the wind, but opt not to use the breath guard. The vents are easy to locate and open or close while riding and keep my head cool.

The wind noise with the RF-1200 is moderate. It’s not obnoxious, but as with most performance-oriented helmets on the lighter side of the spectrum, it’s louder than, say, a touring model. There are cutouts in the padding to allow for a communication system, and there are optional ear pads that fill this void and reduce noise.

I didn’t think I would be a fan of the transitions shield (an optional accessory). I felt that it wouldn’t properly adjust to the lighting. But after trying it, I’m a believer. It absolutely rocks! The shield was also incredibly easy to swap out.

Shoei is a company with a long history of quality helmets. Since 1959, Shoei has done an immense amount of research and testing with their helmets. I find comfort in knowing that if I were to be involved in a crash, that I have some of the best protection in the industry on my head.—Heather Wilson