Arai RX7GP
I've been wearing Arai helmets for 25 years and didn't think I'd ever look at another brand, but some customer service problems will make me look again come next helmet change time.
I've got an RX7GP Edwards which I've had for two and a half years. I lost the little wing diffuser two years ago and when I rang the then distributors, Phoenix, they just popped me one in the post.
I did a track day a few weeks ago and at the end of the day I'd lost another wing. I hadn't knocked or dropped the lid, it had just flown off somewhere.
I went to my local 5 star centre who rang the new distributors for me. I was told it was a service item and the helmet would have to go back to them and they were likely to charge me for the part and fitting.
I wasn't happy with that and rang the distributors myself (motodirect). They told me the same. They said the wings couldn't come off as I described and that they expect me to post them the helmet at my expense. They then reserve the right to bill me for a new wing.
I didn't like them questioning my account and expect better treatment of a 25 year customer. They tell me that Arai europe are being strict with them as a new agent. Unfortunately, I can't find an email contact for Arai europe for their view on this and as I don't want to spend all day on the phone to the Netherlands, it looks like I'll have to buy a wing off ebay and superglue it on to make sure I don't lose any more.
A beautiful helmet, but I now really question the worth of my warranty and the customer service when you need it.
