Haga Monza limited edition Arai RX-7 GP

Arai has released a limited edition replica of the helmet design Noriyuki Haga raced in during the Monza World Superbike round on its range-topping RX-7 GP.

The Xerox Ducati World Superbike (WSB) rider and current championship leader used the design to celebrate his 250th WSB race start and to show his love for the historic race track and respect for the Italian fans.

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The Drudi Performance design features a large outline of the Monza circuit map on the very top, surrounded by its geographical coordinates. On both sides of the helmet, Nori’s ‘NKI41’ logo is depicted in both the Japanese and Italian flags while a caricature of ‘Nitro Nori’ wheelying a tractor finishes the rear.

Only 200 of the helmets will be available and each one is included with a limited edition Haga design T-shirt, signed by the man himself.

The fifth round of the 2009 Superbike World championship took place on May 10 with Haga taking second place in Race 1 behind Ducati team mate Michel Fabrizio. In Race 2 – Haga’s 250th WSB start – the Japanese rider hit a bird at 140mph which caused him to crash shortly after due to a loss of feeling in his arm.

Launched in December 2008 after a full season’s testing by Arai’s MotoGP and Grand Prix riders, the RX-7 GP replaces the Corsair as its range-topping helmet and is completely new from construction right through to the visor.

The structural net composite (SNC) shell with peripheral belting and enhanced hyper ridge strengthening in the lower section represents Arai’s most advance design to date. Other benefits from the new construction include a larger opening to make the helmet more comfortable when putting it on and off and with the centre of gravity moved lower, the helmet sits more naturally to help reduce fatigue.

Changes to the quick release visor have increased peripheral vision while the switches on the vents are now bigger, making them easier to operate wearing gloves. Between the trademark twin diffusers is now a five-position air wing, designed to reduce drag, turbulence and buffeting.

Priced at £589.99 and available in sizes XS-XXL, orders for the RX-7 GP Haga Monza Limited Edition are being taken now with delivery expected in September 2009.

For further information or to find your nearest Arai dealer, contact 01782 569 800 or visit www.whyarai.co.uk.