News Tour X-5: Arai's 5th-generation crossover helmet.

After more than twenty years of dominance in the Dual-Sport helmet segment, Japanese manufacturer Arai reinforces its leadership with the launch of the all-new Tour-X5. This fifth-generation model is the successor to the highly successful Tour-X4, and follows in the footsteps of a category inaugurated by the brand in the early 2000s.

The Tour-X5 arrived on the market in 2024 with a clear ambition: to consolidate Arai's reputation for excellence while broadening its customer base. It retains the principle of 3-in-1 modularity (trail with visor and screen, full-face without screen, or full-face without visor), but emphasizes a much higher level of comfort, easier donning and optimized versatility.

For back-to-school 2025, Arai and its distributor are offering a new Match version in four colors. This finish joins the Discovery and Cosmic versions already on offer, pending the release of a new Trail version scheduled for autumn.

Safety: form for absorption

True to its safety philosophy, one of the Tour-X5's major evolutions is its R75 shape. Rounder, smoother and devoid of superfluous reliefs, this design is at the heart of the ricochet principle dear to Arai. The aim is to optimize shock absorption by allowing the helmet to slide and rotate with the rider's body in the event of a fall, minimizing the risk of further trauma.

The shell uses a technologically advanced matrix (in-house PB-cLc2 process) combining latest-generation fibers with Melange-Z resin. The result is a thinner, lighter and extremely resistant shell. On the inside, a multi-density EPS liner made from a single block and able to combine up to four different densities ensures maximum dissipation of residual energy without increasing the helmet's volume.

Comfort: easier to put on

Comfort, a fundamental objective in the development of the Tour-X5, has received particular attention. The Japanese teams enlarged the chinstrap area by 5 mm on each side. This modification to the cap's perimeter base significantly facilitates helmet donning and doffing, while maintaining an effective fit.

Handcrafted in Japan, the model features high-quality, multi-density inner foams for a firm, soft fit. It also benefits from the FCS (Facial Contour System), a technology inherited from Formula 1 and standardized on motorcycle helmets since 2016. Thanks to rigid tabs on the bottom of the cheek foams, this device actively contributes to helmet fit and better soundproofing without sacrificing comfort.

Screen and aerodynamics: a wider field of vision

The Tour-X5 now features Arai's VAS (Variable Axis System) pivot plates. Positioned lower and further back on the shell, these plates free up space around the helmet's circumference. This lowering of attachment points improves safety, particularly in the front area, traditionally a critical impact point. To reinforce this area, Arai has integrated a Super Fiber peripheral belt, 30% stronger than conventional fiberglass.

This repositioning of the plates also enables the integration of a new VAS-A Max Vision screen, offering an increased field of vision, especially on the sides. Replacement of the screen is facilitated by a tool-free mechanism for opening the cover plates.

On the ventilation side, the system has made further progress with the integration of three inlets and six extractors. A 3D logo on the dome, as on the Quantic model, optimizes air intake. A large air intake on the chin strap, adjustable to three positions (open, intermediate, closed), guarantees high-performance air circulation inside the helmet.

Equipment / features :

• Multi-configuration full-face helmet: trail; off-road; full-face
• Fibre shell using the new PB-e-cLc2 process
  - R75 oval shape
  - Laminated fiberglass shell, 3 sizes
  - Padding, EPS foams, multi-density monoblock (between 3 and 5 sizes depending on Arai model)
• Ventilation
  - Duct front ventilation integrated with 3D logo
  - Chin strap, 3 positions, plus 1 intermediate position
  - Rear extractors: 6
• Acoustics: noise reduction system
• Glancing Off technology with ricochet effect
• Interior foams
  - Removable multi-thickness foams
  - Antibacterial and hypoallergenic Dry-cool coating, removable and washable
  - Cheek foams with FCS face contouring system
  - Removable headpiece
  - Odor-resistant inner lining
  - Pre-equipped for speaker integration
  - Waterproof side foams
  - Emergency cheek foam extraction system
  - Adjustable chin deflector
• Removable off-road visor with anti-reflective coating on inner pace
• Screen, 3D type
  - VAS-A fastening system, tool-free removal
  - Max Vision main screen
  - Pinlock 120 Max Vision anti-fog shield included
  - Standard screen lock
• Intercom compatibility
• Equipped with a nose deflector suitable for use with off-road goggles/mask.
• Double D buckle closure
• Neckband without solid molded parts
• Optional accessories :
  - Removable PSS-type external sunshield: not available for Tour-X5
  - Cheek foams, multiple thicknesses (20 to 40mm)
  - Cap, multiple thicknesses (5 to 12mm depending on size)
• Quality control, number of inspections: 5
• European approval ECE 22.06
• Handcrafted in Japan
• 5-year warranty
• Weight: 1700g in size M
• Carrying case included
• Colors: Matte Black, Gloss Black, Gloss White, Eagle Grey, Silver, Adventure Grey, Yellow
• Sizes: XS to XL
• Suggested retail price (Match version): 999.95 euros - But you can find it at a much better price at Motoblouz, La Bécanerie, or Speedway.