For riding professionals, long-range tourers and urban commuters alike, the Arai SZ has become the choice of premium open-face helmets. It’s easy to see why. The combination of protection, light weight, comfort and open, all-round visibility make the SZ a unique, and special, proposition.
The very first SZ design, introduced back in 1988, opened the door to a new riding experience from Arai, and the model has evolved, constantly and consistently, over the decades.
2023 sees the SZ gain ECE R22-06 approval and EVO status, without significant changes. Arai’s Priority for Protection, the core design philosophy of producing rounder, smoother and stronger outer shells to improve ‘Glancing Off’ performance, is key in this attainment, as is the rigorous in-house criteria that all Arai helmets must satisfy.
As with each and every Arai, it’s the sum of the details coming together to produce an even greater result than their sum that makes the SZ-R EVO the benchmark open face helmet it is. The Variable Axis System (VAS) design effectively lowers the visor pivot point by using a dual pivot assembly. This allows the shell to be smoother around the critical temple area.
The PB-CLC2 outer shell itself is manufactured using a special Z compound of various resins, and balanced by a lightweight inner liner, that lowers the centre of gravity.
Comfort in the SZ-R EVO is supreme over long distances, thanks to interior contact points that cradle the rider’s head evenly. The interior is also fully adjustable and designed for the use of glasses and speakers. Ventilation is taken care of by the same diffuser technology as used by the flagship racing-spec RX-7V EVO, with an added aero stabiliser.
The SZ-R EVO comes with a Pinlock insert included.
