Arai Arai Quantum/f Mach

Pros: Quality workmanship
Cons: May be cost prohibitive for a starting rider, but what is your noodle worth?

Having gone the less expensive route prior to the Arai, I traded less money for more weight, more wind noise, less comfort, shorter warranties, etc. If I had added up the cost of the Shoeis and HJCs prior to this, I would've been ahead! The helmet has a lower profile than most, but doesn't feel like your head has been shrink-wrapped in fiberglass. The vents at the top of the stock shield clear the view, even while stopped. With multiple vents fore and aft, your head stays cool. The lining is soft around the facebones but doesn't misalign your jaw while keeping itself in place. The graphics are not cheap stickers, and seem to be more durable than others. Awesome lid!