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Have you tried eBay? That's where I've picked up most of my helmets.
There are a bunch of helmets that can be had for a lot less than any retailer. Motorcycle shops charge an extra premium due to a relatively small riding community compared to auto shops...
Also, try to check out Bert's Mega Mall for seasonal sales. They can get really cheap once in a while (albeit a very small choice for helmets on sale). Finally, check out the International Motorcycle Show at the Long Beach Convention Center this October. Great deals with the vendors while they're there.
PLEEEEEEASE do yourself a favor and try them on at a local shop before buying online. It would be a shame to spend $600 on a lit and not have it fit right. As you probably know, the different Arai models fit different shaped heads.
This site is great for helmet (and lots of stuff bike related) reviews and info you should think about before purchasing:
Basically they will allow you to return a helmet at no cost to you (no freight charge or restock fee) to exchange it for one with a better fit.
Otherwise your local dealer should be able to fit you properly - the Arais have different size cheek pads so it can almost be customized to your melon.
If you want peace of mind, buy it from a local retailer such as Road Rider. The chance that the helmet was dropped or used is unlikely from a retailer. Buying one from Ebay might save you money, but it also might mean that it has been dropped, therefore reducing the effectiveness of the helmet. A good enough drop might mean that it won't be effective at all when it needs to do its job. I'm sure there are a bunch of great helmets on Ebay, but buying online has its own set of risks that I'm sure you're aware of.
Also, keep your options open when it comes to the brand of helmet. Arai makes great helmets but human heads aren't made the same. Try Arai and some of the other brands and see what fits you best. I personally use Shoei and enjoy it. My head doesn't quite fit Arai as well.
And lastly, when purchasing your next street bike, please, please, please think about purchasing other protective gear like a jacket, pants, gloves, and boots.
i got my brand new arai quantum 2 w/ graphics from ebay couple years ago.. $220 plus shipping.. (shop was closing).. gotta look around and have patience..
And lastly, when purchasing your next street bike, please, please, please think about purchasing other protective gear like a jacket, pants, gloves, and boots.
Exactly - dress for the RIDE, not the weather! I saw a guy on a sportbike yesterday with the helmet attached to the side. Good thing the bike is protected if he should go down..
I completely agree, go to some stores and try the helmets on before you buy. I've found newenough.com has had really good prices. Especially on the closeouts.
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