I was a devotee' of the "less expensive" helmets for a long time. I had two Scorpion EXO 700's in a row, the last one was 39.95 on eBay, brand new. I really liked both helmets, but it was time for a new one, and had shopped with my sister, who has a similar shaped "long oval" head. We both liked the newer Shoei's...both the RF1200, and the fairly expensive Neotec were good fits on both of us.
She ended up with a closeout RF1200, and I found a deal on a Neotec.
The differences in quality are VERY evident. Shields are much clearer optically, the build quality is ( just from observation) MUCH better, and the fit ( for me at least) is much better on the Neotec. My Scorpions were a bit tight in the forehead area, and gave my bald pate that "Klingon" look when I removed it. The cushioning is much plusher, and it goes on a LOT easier than a regular full face helmet.
Is the modular worth it? For me, it was a toss up. I got a great deal on the lid, so was willing to give it a try. I have found that overall I prefer the modular. It's great for gas stops, or grabbing a drink of water while stopped, as well as lifting up to grab some cooler air while stopped. I am not sure I could ever go back to the regular full face.
In answer to your question: Yes, the high dollar helmets DO offer advantages: higher build quality, better functionality ( in some instances), and more options, but only you can determine if those qualities, rather than functionality are worth the extra $$ to you.
She ended up with a closeout RF1200, and I found a deal on a Neotec.
The differences in quality are VERY evident. Shields are much clearer optically, the build quality is ( just from observation) MUCH better, and the fit ( for me at least) is much better on the Neotec. My Scorpions were a bit tight in the forehead area, and gave my bald pate that "Klingon" look when I removed it. The cushioning is much plusher, and it goes on a LOT easier than a regular full face helmet.
Is the modular worth it? For me, it was a toss up. I got a great deal on the lid, so was willing to give it a try. I have found that overall I prefer the modular. It's great for gas stops, or grabbing a drink of water while stopped, as well as lifting up to grab some cooler air while stopped. I am not sure I could ever go back to the regular full face.
In answer to your question: Yes, the high dollar helmets DO offer advantages: higher build quality, better functionality ( in some instances), and more options, but only you can determine if those qualities, rather than functionality are worth the extra $$ to you.