Arai tops helmet consumer ranking

From Phoenix Distribution

For the 11th consecutive year, Arai has come out on top of the JD Power and Associates 2009 Motorcycle Helmet Satisfaction Study, further cementing the brand’s long-held position as the world’s best crash helmet.

The wide-ranging J D Power study examines 11 key areas of owner satisfaction -- ventilation / air flow, quietness, de-fogging, face shield draught-proofing, ease of replacement and scratch-resistance, colour / graphic design and scratch resistance of shell, strap fastening plus helmet weight and overall fit and comfort.

The study is based on responses from more than 4,600 purchasers of new, 2008 model-year motorcycles who provided information about their most recent helmet purchase experience and helmet use. With a score of 830 on a 1,000-point scale, Arai achieved the greatest overall score and was particularly credited for performance in the ventilation and design and styling factors.

“Arai continues to improve in the areas critical to customer satisfaction, which has further differentiated it from other manufacturers,” said Tim Fox, research manager of the powersports practice at J.D. Power and Associates. “Arai’s focus on fit and comfort—the most important consideration when purchasing a motorcycle helmet—and its ability to cater to different types of riders has given the manufacturer a consistent edge in satisfying customers.”