To test the new Shoei Neotec 3 modular motorcycle helmet, I pulled it out of the box, installed the Pinlock anti-fog insert, and wore it for nine straight days while riding over 4,200 miles through four states – all day, every day for 12-14 hours in temperatures ranging from freezing to 100-plus, in headwinds, tailwinds, and crosswinds, and in mostly dry conditions but also pouring rain. How did it do? Now in its third generation, the Shoei Neotec 3 is an evolution of one of the most popular premium modular helmets. When the first Neotec debuted in 2012, it replaced the Multitec, and each generation has brought refinements and new features. Testing the Shoei Neotec 3 on the 2024 KTM 890 SMT. Photo by Kevin Wing Shoei used wind-tunnel testing to improve the shell’s aerodynamics. It has more sculpted contours above the faceshield, new side plates between the flip-up chinbar and the shell, and a more pronounced rear spoiler to help smooth airflow. At highway speeds, the Neotec 3 slices cleanly through the air while looking straight ahead or side to side. The shell is made using Shoei’s proprietary, three-layer Advanced Integrated Matrix, which includes fiber-reinforced matrix, compound structure (layers of organic and glass fibers), and synthetic resin. Inside the shell is a multidensity EPS liner that optimizes impact absorption in key areas. The rotating chinbar has two fully open positions, and the higher of the two requires a stronger pull to close the chinbar. The weight of the medium helmet I tested is 4 lb, 1.5 ounces, which is 0.5 ounce lighter than my Neotec II, and it never feels heavy on my head. In fact, like most high-quality helmets, I usually forget that I’m wearing it. The Neotec 3’s updated faceshield provides a better airtight seal, and it does a fantastic job of keeping out wind and rain. It also has a new central locking mechanism with a release button, but occasionally the shield is difficult to lock closed, and it doesn’t always have a noticeable click to let me know it is locked. The drop-down sunshield is now 5mm taller for more vertical coverage, and it has a prominent slider on the left side of the helmet that’s easy to operate. Starting our day in Stafford, Arizona, before riding the Coronado Trail National Scenic Byway. Photo by Eric Birns. Neotecs have always been comfortable helmets, and the Neotec 3 is no exception. It has a plush comfort lining with cheek pads that use Noise Isolators and a snug neck roll to keep out wind and noise. The interior fit can be customized with different crown and cheek pads, and there are removable ear pads over the speaker pockets. Shoei also updated the ventilation system and the micro-ratchet chinstrap. Built into the bottom edge of the Neotec 3 are plug-and-play installation points for the optional Shoei Comlink helmet communicator ($359), which uses Sena’s SRL3 Mesh Intercom 2.0 Bluetooth system, Harmon Kardon speakers, and a noise-cancelling microphone. Making friends in Terlingua, Texas, just outside of Big Bend National Park. Photo by Eric Birns. Except for the niggling issue of the faceshield locking mechanism, the Shoei Neotec 3 does everything I want a good modular helmet to do. Even after wearing it every day for more than a week straight, it was consistently comfortable, easy to use, and quiet. Like my Neotec II, I’ll be wearing it for years to come. The Neotec 3 is available in sizes XS-2XL (spread over three shell sizes) in solid colors for $899.99 and graphics for $999.99. Shop for Shoei Neotec 3 Modular Motorcycle Helmet The post Shoei Neotec 3 Modular Motorcycle Helmet Review | Gear appeared first on Rider Magazine.