A high-impact pattern bursting with “Samurai spirit”
This open-face helmet offers a stress-free fit and a sense of openness for touring and everyday use. The VZ-RAM, the flagship model in Arai’s open-face lineup, fully pursues the company’s promise of safety within the framework of an open-face helmet.
The newly added graphic, “PEDROSA-SHOGUN,” is a replica of the latest color scheme of Spanish rider Dani Pedrosa. He consistently competed as a top rider in the world’s premier two-wheeled race, MotoGP, for 12 years, and even after retiring in 2018, he continues to compete in MotoGP on an occasional basis as a KTM test rider. His legendary riding style, which intimidates current riders, shows his legendary skills are still alive and well. The graphic embodies the Japanese “samurai spirit,” a theme Pedrosa has cherished since his days as a rider. This comical and bold model features the fierce expression of a general, reminiscent of American comics. A Japanese collaboration coordination that matches the Kawasaki Ninja series and Suzuki Katana series seems like a perfect fit.
Pedrosa-Shogun
Pedrosa-Shogun
Pedrosa-Shogun
Ultimate safety for open-face helmets
The VZ-RAM is a new generation open-face helmet model, the first to feature the VAS-Z Shield System (described below), providing even greater protection
. Since there’s a limit to the amount of energy any helmet can absorb, in real-world scenarios, the only option is to deflect large amounts of energy. This is why Arai has adopted a strong shell and a smooth form that better deflects impacts. To further improve impact deflection, the shield mounting point has been lowered approximately 14 mm, based on the proven Snell standard test line, to create a smoother shape for the side of the helmet.
To achieve this ideal form, the VZ-RAM is equipped with Arai’s newly developed shield system, the VAS-Z Shield System. Lowering the shield system position means lowering the shield mounting point to a position where it would normally be impossible to open or close. While the previous model, the SZ-Ram4, had a single shield rotation axis, the VAS-Z employs a unique rotation axis structure that combines a virtual shield rotation axis, which should normally be located at the top, with the original rotation axis. This allows the shield to be opened and closed while still maintaining a lower shield system position.
The helmet shell features SFB Protection, developed with F1 helmet technology. Arai’s proprietary Super Fiber belt runs parallel to the upper window cut line for enhanced rigidity. In the event of a crash, this special belt prevents cracks from spreading in the event of a strong impact.
The main material of the shell is the latest Super Fiber, which is six times more expensive than regular glass fiber. This special fiberglass, with a higher fiber density and 40% higher tensile and compressive strength than regular glass fiber, is Arai’s latest proprietary material. Furthermore, the lightweight organic AR Mat (internal material), combined as a composite material, has been improved to adhere closely to the Super Fiber, further enhancing strength. The same resin as the flagship RX-7X model is used for strength yet lightweight. Highly skilled shell experts meticulously handcraft each shell, resulting in the ultimate in rigidity, lightness, and resilience.
Another feature of the VZ-RAM is the rebalancing of the center of gravity by millimeters, making the shell feel even lighter. During the design phase of the helmet shell and liner, the helmet was widened by approximately 2mm front to back and 2mm wider at the top of the liner (sizes 57-58/59-60) compared to the previous model, the SZ-Ram4, and the center of gravity balance was re-analyzed. Although the VZ-RAM weighs approximately 1,400g (sizes 59-60), the helmet’s center of gravity is positioned closer to the head, making it feel significantly lighter when worn.
The open-face model features the same diffuser developed for racing as the RX-7X. The improved spoiler function, combined with the fixed aero fin, further reduces rearward turbulence at high speeds. Air intake efficiency is improved by 19% compared to the Diffuser Type 10 (SZ-Ram4).
A large switch allows precise adjustment of air intake volume when the helmet is fully open or half-open, and soundproofing and rainproofing are improved when the helmet is fully closed, combining quietness and ease of operation.
The aero fins, which are extremely effective at regulating turbulent air behind the helmet, work synergistically with the racing diffuser, which significantly improves quietness and intake efficiency, reducing helmet wobble and improving stability. The shape, angle, and position have been carefully considered to maximize the rectification effect required for touring, improving comfort and reducing strain on the neck. The helmet also features ventilation that efficiently directs air around the forehead for improved cooling and a refreshing feeling, as well as NE nozzle/side ducts that utilize negative pressure while riding to expel hot air from the back of the head while also reducing turbulence.
The interior features a fully adjustable system interior that maintains the same weak acidity as bare skin and has antibacterial, deodorizing, and stain-resistant properties. Equipped with ear cups compatible with the Incom, it offers comfort approaching that of a top-end full-face model.
<Main features>
– Uses a tough “PB-cLc2 (Peripherally Belted Complex Laminate Construction Square) shell”
– Sleek form that easily deflects impacts
– New shield system “VAS-Z Shield System” that lowers the shield mounting position while improving safety without sacrificing functionality – “Aero Fin”
that regulates turbulent air behind the helmet –
“Racing Diffuser” that significantly improves intake efficiency –
“IC Duct 5” with a large switch that allows for reliable operation and adjustment of air intake volume when fully open or half open –
“Aero Fin” that regulates turbulent air behind the helmet –
“Side Duct 7” and “NE Nozzle” that improve the cooling effect above the ears –
Newly developed full-system interior “Eco Pure Interior” with antibacterial, deodorizing and stain-resistant properties
– “Adjustable System Interior” that allows for more precise adjustment of the fit around the head –
Space is secured within the system pad to store an intercom speaker
– Head and cheek sizes can be adjusted with options
Overview of Arai Helmet "VZ-RAM PEDROSA-SHOGUN"
■ Price: 70,400 yen (including tax)
■ Color: Pedrosa-Shogun
■ Size (cm): 54, 55-56, 57-58, 59-60, 61-62
■ Standards: SNELL, JIS
■ Structure: PB-cLc2
■ Shield: VAS-Z Blow Shield (Light Smoke) included as standard (*Anti-fog Pinlock sheet sold separately)
