I know, it's May, but 2010 will be here before we know it. 2010 is when we see the new SNELL rating, and I think this is going to open the door for many of the helmet manufacturers to update their models. I've already heard through the grape vine that some could be out as soon as November...
Why is the SNELL update so huge for 2010? It's simple. In the past the manufacturers had to make two helmets. One for Europe, and another for the US. With SNELL softening their standard to be more like DOT and ECE22-05, they should be coming out with one helmet for the World. This will open the door for lighter helmets, and broaden the amount of features they can include. You're already seeing it with the inner visor systems on the HJC products.
Who is due for a change? Well, if I had to put one company at the top of the list, I would say Shoei. They've had out their current models for over 5 years, and other companies like Arai have made the change with the Corsair V. The X-11 has been at the top, and even thou I feel it's still there, something fresh would be nice. I just hope they don't ruin it...lol. Other companies have already made the change to just 22-05/DOT, so 2010 isn't as huge. Their stuff is already out.
When the next generation of the X-11 comes out, I'll be sure to slap it on and give it a once over. It better be good, since my current X-11 has a ton of life left...
