[Kabuto HYUGA Review] A 3D retro-modern design that hits the mark, with excellent lightweight comfort and functionality

Kabuto's "HYUGA" is the latest full-face helmet that fuses a classical appearance with modern comfort. While it is a rare "taste-oriented" model for Kabuto, how does it perform in actual use? I put it to the test.

Adopting Kabuto's unique aerodynamic device, a new standard in retro helmets

Neo-classic helmets that look retro on the outside but are modern on the inside have become a popular category recently. Kabuto's current lineup has focused on sporty helmets, and they haven't had a neo-classic model until now.

In this context, the newly released "HYUGA" arrives. It is a full-face helmet that balances a classical design with the functionality Kabuto is known for, such as the Wake Stabilizer.

In its basic design, "lightness" was prioritized. The company says they were thorough in everything from component composition to material selection. Also, like other Kabuto models, they utilized CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) to study the shape and placement of the ventilation, followed by repeated adjustments through wind tunnel testing and real-world riding.

When asked about the naming of "HYUGA," Kabuto provided the following answer: One of the concepts of HYUGA is to be a neo-classic helmet where you can feel the "coolness." The name embodies the refreshing image of wind comfortably entering the helmet, allowing you to ride lightly while feeling the breeze. By combining this with "Ga" (self), which expresses the desire to "ride as yourself" or "ride in your own style," the name "HYUGA" was born.

Kabuto's "HYUGA" features a round shell with slits and other details, characterized by a simple yet sophisticated design. Scheduled for release in mid-October 2026 (XS/S sizes scheduled for November). A newly designed "Kabuto Antifog Sheet" is available separately (3,300 yen).

　　●Price: 46,200 yen
　　●Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
　　●Standard: JIS
　　●Colors: White, Black, Matte Black, Gray, Matte Olive, Orange (Limited Quantity)
　　●Manufacturer Website: https://www.ogkkabuto.co.jp/motorcycle/products/fullface/hyuga/hyuga.html

Features a rounded retro-style design and a wide eye port. It uses the high-strength composite material shell "A.C.T.-3," which provides excellent penetration resistance and shock absorption while optimizing strength and weight in each part. The buckle is a reliable D-ring type.

The shell is compact. The round form stands out even when viewed from the side. The shell comes in 3 sizes (XS/S, M/L, XL/XXL) to ensure an optimal fit and reduced weight.

A simple rear design with only slits at the bottom. The logo sticker is reflective, increasing visibility at night.

The bulge on the rear side is the Wake Stabilizer. It is Kabuto's unique aerodynamic device that controls airflow near the shell to increase stability. On the HYUGA, it blends into the retro shell without looking out of place.

An open/close intake duct is installed on the forehead (photo shows it open). The center knob is large and easy to operate even with gloves. Note the 3D design on both sides as well.

An open/close intake duct is adopted in the center of the mouth area. The slits on both sides serve as a nice accent. Both use metal mesh for a high-quality feel.

The shutter for the mouth duct is placed inside the chin guard to maintain aesthetics (photo shows it open). It brings riding wind into the mouth area to reduce stuffiness.

The newly designed 2-axis shield ratchet structure increases airtightness and holds the shield firmly even in a slightly open position. The thick shield and aluminum bearings are also stylish. The shield can be removed with a Phillips screwdriver.

The meticulous design is cool, and the comfort is simply "easy"

Seeing it in person, I thought it was even cooler than in the photos. While it looks simple from a distance, looking closely reveals 3D detailing on various parts of the shell. Also, the quality of parts like the aluminum shield bearings, the logo on the left side of the interior, and the logo on the back of the head is high, and the treatment of the slits is meticulous.

In terms of this retro "taste," I thought other manufacturers had a head start, but Kabuto has clearly put in the work.

Around the forehead, chin guard, and slits, the 3D design pops out through shadows. It is retro yet has a modern atmosphere.

The comfort is truly "easy." First, the wearing feel is light. They focused on weight reduction during development, so it is hard for the neck to get tired even when worn for long periods, and it is easy to move your neck for checks.

The measured weight is 1393g including the included chin curtain, and 1384g without it (L size, White. *Since the tested HYUGA is a sample, the weight of mass-produced items may vary).

A full-face helmet under 1400g is rare. The company's lightweight full-face "Aeroblade-6" was 1393g by my measurement (L size, Flat Black, without chin curtain), but the HYUGA is even lighter.

In addition, it is easy to put on and take off. The bottom of the interior is soft, so it feels gentle on the cheeks and ears when putting on or taking off the helmet.

Furthermore, the hold is natural. It fits broadly and softly, wrapping from the forehead to the back of the head. I always wear a size L in Kabuto. My size feel is L in SHOEI, and between 59-60 and 61-62 in Arai.

The interior is newly designed. The stitching on the bottom also has a retro atmosphere. The bottom part is soft, and it opens wide when you spread the chin straps. The photo shows the included chin curtain installed.

The cheek pad shape allows for glasses or sunglasses to be put on smoothly. The temples slide in easily, and there is no stress when wearing them. The logo on the left side of the interior is stylish.

Retro helmets are at a disadvantage in aerodynamics, but maintain comfort

Because of the easy comfort, city riding is very pleasant. The visibility is also a highlight. The opening is wide vertically and horizontally, providing a very open feeling for a full-face helmet.

With the included chin curtain removed, wind blows through your face, which is cool. The chin curtain can be easily attached with three dot buttons, shutting out wind from under the chin. When attached, the mouth shutter becomes harder to operate, but this is a trade-off for aesthetics, so it can't be helped.

When entering the highway and riding at 100 km/h, the feeling of being pushed back and wind noise become noticeable. The classical round shell is at a disadvantage in terms of aerodynamics compared to sports models, so that is likely the cause. That said, for a retro helmet, the straight-line stability is very high, and the wind noise is not at an uncomfortable level. The practicality is sufficient, and it is incomparably more comfortable than a real vintage helmet.

While the ventilation is not the type where you feel the wind directly, at 100 km/h you can tell it is well-ventilated as there is no stuffiness in the head, making it refreshing. The newly designed shield system, which allows you to keep the shield slightly open, is also quietly convenient. On the day of the test, the temperature was 22 degrees Celsius and it was cloudy. I didn't use the anti-fog sheet this time, but the shield didn't fog up while riding even when fully closed.

I could hear surrounding sounds and wind noise to some extent, but I should add that when I closed the ducts and attached the chin curtain, the noise became significantly quieter.

Dedicated spaces are provided on the left and right to accommodate intercoms and cameras. The speaker hole was approximately φ51 x 9mm deep by my measurement. Cable routes are also provided, allowing for wiring without the cords getting in the way.

The interior, including the chin strap cover, is fully removable. The overall texture is smooth, and the inner pad fabric uses DEOFACTOR "antibacterial processing" to suppress the growth of bacteria on fibers. Coolmax, a sweat-absorbing and quick-drying fabric, is also used in some parts.

[Summary] Balancing design and function, the price is also very attractive compared to rivals

HYUGA looks great on old motorcycles and neo-classics. Its light and comfortable fit makes it useful for a wide range of purposes, centered on city riding but also including touring.

And at 46,200 yen for this quality and functionality, I feel it is quite a bargain. Comparing it to rival retro full-face helmets, Arai's Rapide-Neo starts at 61,600 yen (Snell standard, anti-fog sheet and chin cover sold separately), and SHOEI's Glamster starts at 58,300 yen (JIS standard, anti-fog sheet and chin curtain included, includes size diagnosis and interior adjustment service).

If you ride an old motorcycle or a neo-classic and are looking for a helmet, you should definitely consider it.
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