We analyze the critical behavior of two-dimensional N-vector spin systems with noncollinear order within the five-loop renormalization-group (RG) approximation. The structure of the RG flow is studied for different N leading to the conclusion that the chiral fixed point governing the critical behavior of physical systems with (formula presented) and (formula presented) does not coincide with that given by the (formula presented) expansion. We show that the stable chiral fixed point for (formula presented) including (formula presented) and (formula presented) turns out to be a focus. We give a complete characterization of the critical behavior controlled by this fixed point, also evaluating the subleading crossover exponents. The spiral-like approach of the chiral fixed point is argued to give rise to unusual crossover and near-critical regimes that may imitate varying critical exponents seen in numerous physical and computer experiments.