Smart helmets are all I've written about in the past few weeks, and that should be a good indicator of what way the market is going. Whether it's technology that doesn't interfere with your ride, like Quin's smart pod, or heads-up display (HUD) technology that we'll see in a lid from TVS soon. Now, the highly anticipated augmented reality AR mart helmet from Shoei, the GT-Air 3 Smart, is about to go on sale, and I think it'll sell well.
I should preface everything by saying that I didn't think augmented reality helmets would be a hit, especially not in the near future. I think most motorcyclists put on their helmets to get away from distractions—I do—and the last thing you'd want is more happening once you close your double D ring. But after being so immersed in thought about this technology, and after a particularly dangerous recent ride through Mexico City not long ago, I'm starting to feel more than a few will buy the GT-Air 3 Smart, or at least something similar. But let's start with the specs.
The main feature to consider on this helmet is the integrated FHD Nano OLED HUD, and through this, you can see maps, turn-by-turn navigation, route information, speed camera detections, your speed, the time, and incoming calls and messages if you're connected to your phone. The visor HUD is an EyeLights product, known as EyeRide, so not Shoei's in-house developed technology. All the AR technology is in a dropdown visor, much like you would have a built-in sun visor. So, if you don't want anything getting between you and the road, just retract the visor.
There's a communication system, which was developed by EyeLights, an audio kit, and a noise-reducing microphone, all built in. The communication system uses Mesh, which is technology we're familiar with on Cardo and Sena units, but this system has unlimited range, can be paired with an unlimited number of users, and is compatible with all brands.
Considering all the tech on offer, the 10-hour battery life is impressive, and the helmet is compatible with Android and iOS phones. Right now, the GT-Air 3 Smart is only available for pre-order, and you'll have to put €199 ($230) down. The total price of the helmet in Europe is €1,199 ($1,386), which puts it up there with the most expensive touring lids you can find, and I think people are going to buy it.
As I mentioned, I recently got lost in an area in Mexico City that nobody wants to get lost in, and if you've ever driven in that city, you know what a labyrinth it is, particularly if you can see the directions on a screen. My phone was delivering me turn-by-wrong-turn navigation via my Cardo and rerouting me through areas I wouldn't have accepted had I been able to see where it was bringing me. This helmet would've helped me so much to stay on route and calmer in that situation.
There are other times, too, when you ride to clear your head, but can't miss a call, or know that on an adventure, you're going to have to ride through a difficult-to-navigate city, and having the information readily available will make riding better. In fact, it's arguably better than constantly, anxiously looking down at your phone for the information. But this only works well because you can flip up the AR visor and use this as a regular touring helmet that shuts out the world just like any other lid and keeps your noggin safe.
