Arai XD3 - visual distortion? - Ducati.ms

SpdKlzU · Oct 12th, 2008, 2:41 am

Hi all,

I know a few folks on here have the new Arai XD-3 model. I wanted to see if anyone else has problems with weird optical distortion? I think it's because the shield comes to a point right in front of your nose and causes some weird refraction. I kinda feel like I'm looking in one of those carnival mirrors. I went round the block in it and felt nauseous... almost like motion sickness.

I had my brother (who rides a lot) and my wife (who doesn't) try out the helmet and they both said the same thing, so I'm pretty sure it's not just me.

Anyone else having these problems? I'll probably have to return it as it's unsafe, at least on my head. It's a shame really as it fits nicely, is decent up to about 80mph and looks the business. I might have to look at Shoei Hornet instead... bummer.

Col · Oct 12th, 2008, 3:01 am

maybe you just need to get the visor replaced on your helmet as it may not have been manufactured properly?

MarksFriggin · Oct 12th, 2008, 9:06 am

I have the same issue but I've actually gotten used to it and don't notice it anymore. It was very annoying at first and I wasn't sure I wanted to keep the helmet. I've had it about a year now and I'm glad I kept it.

tunefx · Oct 12th, 2008, 4:53 pm

Mine is fine. Trying a new visor is a great idea. But trying a new shield might be a better idea.

Bravo51 · Oct 12th, 2008, 7:06 pm

I have no problems with mine with either the clear shield or the dark smoke shield. Good luck.

**BillyD** · Oct 12th, 2008, 9:46 pm

There is definitely more distortion with the XD shield than on my Quantum; however, I have gotten use to the XD overtime. I particularly noticed it while riding with the XD off-road where you tend to looking more down than forward compared to when on the street.

You are not cracking up. There is definitely more optical distortion with the XD shield.

SpdKlzU · Oct 12th, 2008, 9:51 pm

Cool thanks guys. I'm glad to hear I'm not going crazy. It sounds like everyone just "got used to it", so I might give it another try. It is an awesome helmet, but I think Arai could have done a better job on the shield to prevent the distortion. I've been buying Arai helmets for over 10 years and their optical clarity has always been pretty good.

Thanks again fellas

sloduck · Oct 13th, 2008, 6:04 pm

Quote:

Originally Posted by SpdKlzU

Hi all,

I know a few folks on here have the new Arai XD-3 model. I wanted to see if anyone else has problems with weird optical distortion? I think it's because the shield comes to a point right in front of your nose and causes some weird refraction. I kinda feel like I'm looking in one of those carnival mirrors. I went round the block in it and felt nauseous... almost like motion sickness.

I had my brother (who rides a lot) and my wife (who doesn't) try out the helmet and they both said the same thing, so I'm pretty sure it's not just me.

Anyone else having these problems? I'll probably have to return it as it's unsafe, at least on my head. It's a shame really as it fits nicely, is decent up to about 80mph and looks the business. I might have to look at Shoei Hornet instead... bummer.

I felt the same the moment I wore it. Then went ahead and a new dark sheild for it and it is the same so I have not wear it since then.