There are 8.5 million motorcycles registered in the United States. That number continues to climb, with spikes in ridership in the last few years.

Whether you have been riding a motorcycle for years or are a newcomer, you know that motorcycle helmets not only increase safety but can enhance the ride experience with different features. There are many different types of helmets and features to choose from though.

The article explores the differences between two of the best: the Shoei Neotec 2 vs Neotec 3 helmets. Read on to get a clear understanding of the pros and cons of each so that you can make the most informed buying decision possible.

Neotec 2 vs Neotec 3 Basics

Shoei is a Japanese company that has been making some of the best motorcycle helmets since it was founded in 1958. They have become known for prioritizing convenience and comfort, along with superior protection by using high-quality materials and innovative construction techniques.

Both the Neotec 2 and Neotec 3 are very solid, comfortable, and reasonably priced helmets. The Neotec 2 starts at around $600, and you can expect the Neotec 3 to cost a bit more.

Also, their fit and functions are very similar. There are, however, a few distinctions that are worth considering.

Construction

Both the Neotec 2 and 3 are modular helmets that use Shoei's AIM (Advanced Integrated Matrix) shell-molding technology. This entails a matrix of interwoven layers of fiberglass with organic resin and fibers. This layering helps marry strength with elasticity, producing a lightweight shell that is extremely impact-resistant.

Shoei shells are cut using robotically controlled lasers that shave off any protrusions made during the molding process and create eye openings and ventilation ports. Shoei inspects every helmet to ensure proper thickness and weight before finishing.

Both the Neotec 2 and 3 are available in seven different sizes and three outer shell sizes. The only distinction between the two shells is aesthetic. Shoei did make minor adjustments to the aerodynamic grooves on the side of the Neotec 3, which gives the helmet a sportier look.

Vent Placement and Design

Shoei made a few minor yet significant ventilation upgrades from the Shoei Neotec 2 helmet to the Neotec 3. One is in the chin vents.

The Neotec 2 has a flip vent, which the rider can either open or close fully. The Neotec 3 replaces it with an adjustable vent, including an insect screen.

Another change is a size reduction in the top and side vents on the Shoei Neotec 3 helmet. This could help reduce drag, especially at high speeds. The tradeoff is that the Neotec 2 has better ventilation than the Neotec 3.

Visor

Both the Neotec 2 and 3 have similar mechanisms that hold the visor in place. You can adjust it to sit at seven different positions.

One distinction is that the visor comes down a bit farther in the Neotec 3 than in the Neotec 2. This provides better protection from road reflections and glare. It requires a little more force to put the visor down as well, which makes it less likely to close on its own due to the wind.

Another difference is that the Neotec 2's visor closure is positioned on the side, whereas the Neotec 3's is in the middle. The advantage may be negligible, but this update does make it a little easier to open and close the Neotec 3 visor with both hands.

Comfort and Interior

The fit and form of the two helmets are very similar. They both are close in weight, although the Neotec 3 is slightly heavier (even though it is smaller).

Shoei did not change the padding layout from the Neotec 2 to the 3. However, they did make some upgrades to the pads themselves.

For instance, the Neotec 2 has a mesh material across the cheek and front pad surfaces. The Neotec 3 retains the mesh design but uses a more grippy material.

The opposite is true for the crown padding. The Neotec 2 has grippier fabric, whereas it has been replaced with the mesh material in the Neotec 3.

The final change is that the cheek pads in the Neotec 3 extend further to make the neck roll fit closer to the rider's neck. This reduces the potential for air ingress in places like the rear of the helmet, giving the Neotec 3 a better insulating quality than the Neotec 2.

Communication System

One of the biggest differences between Neotec 2 vs Neotec 3 helmets is their communications systems. The Neotec 2 works with the Sena SRL 2 system, while the Neotec 3 is compatible with the Sena SRL 3.

This is important because the SRL 2 system will not work with the Neotec 3. Unfortunately, that means, if you are upgrading from the Neotec 2 to the 3, you will need to upgrade the comms system as well.

Note that the SRL 3 does offer better sound quality and better connectivity. It has a range of up to five miles and a 4-way Bluetooth intercom. The SRL 2 is still a high-quality communications system, but has a range of about a mile and lacks mesh connectivity.

Motorcycle Safety and Compliance

Shoei is renowned for testing their helmets far beyond what is required by law. It can still be helpful to examine the regulatory standards that each helmet meets.

Neotec 2 met the DOT safety standards and Economic Commission of Europe's (ECE) 22.05 standards at the time it came out. It does not meet the standards laid out in the newest version, ECE 22.06, which now tests helmets for angled impacts, in addition to direct ones.

The Neotec 3 meets DOT safety standards and ECE 22.06. This does not mean that the Neotec 2 is an unsafe helmet -- far from it. However, it does make it clear that Neotec 3 offers slightly better protection. 

For the US market, Shoei does not carry the ECE Version.

Find the Neotec 2 or Neotec 3 Helmet Near You

Now that you know the difference between the Neotec 2 vs Neotec 3 helmet and the distinct advantages each affords, you can determine which is right for you. An experienced helmet distributor can further advise you on the options available with both products.

XtremeHelmets.com carries only the highest-quality, motorcycle and off-road helmets. We stock a wide variety of options and accessories, including the Neotec 2 and 3. Take a look at our extensive online inventory or reach out to us for assistance selecting the best new helmet for your unique riding needs.