Now, half a year and hundreds of hours on the bike later, we’re revisiting that bold claim. Has the Moto-10 lived up to the hype?

This article is based on the video by Transmoto.

Still the Best? We Think So

Over the past six months, I’ve run both the Eli Tomac replica and a limited edition Rhythm graphic version of the Moto-10. That’s been my exclusive setup. No switching, no backups—just these two helmets.

Bell Moto-10 Spherical Helmet

Bell’s most advanced dirt bike helmet, the Moto-10 Spherical, delivers top-tier impact protection, airflow, and pro-level comfort for serious riders.

Pros:

• Spherical Mips® tech for superior safety
• Excellent ventilation system
• Comfortable, cooling liner with easy-to-remove cheek pads

Cons:

• Expensive
• Slightly heavy
• Snug fit may need break-in

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And honestly? We stand by our original statement.

From a protection standpoint, the spherical ball-and-socket tech is incredible. The quality of the finish is second to none, and the airflow is honestly market-leading. Plus, the comfort details like the Jade-infused liner mean I barely need to wash it (not just an excuse—it actually stays fresh). It just doesn’t get that gross, crusty feel, which is a huge bonus on long days.

Pricey But Worth It

Sure, it’s not cheap—expect to pay anywhere from $1200 to $1300 depending on the graphics. But the more time I spend with this helmet, the more it justifies the price tag. It’s not just gear; it’s a legit safety system that delivers top-tier performance every time you put it on.

That Pesky Visor Screw (and Why It’s Actually a Feature)

Let’s talk about something a bit weird: the visor screws. If you’ve used Bell helmets before—Moto-9 Flex, S-Flex, or even the Moto-10—you’ve probably had that moment where you’re cranking down the visor screw thinking, “Have I tightened this enough?”

Turns out, that “looseness” is by design. Behind the screw is a little Tic Tac–sized lug, called a locating pin. The Flying Bridge–style peak isn’t supposed to be rigidly fixed. The idea is that if you take a hit, the lug breaks and the visor pops up, reducing rotational force.

Breaking Without Crashing?

Here’s the problem though. I’ve had a couple of those lugs bust—and not during a crash. I found them broken after traveling, just from the helmet being inside my gear bag. That’s frustrating, especially when you’re careful with your equipment.

After chatting with the team at Bell, we figured out why. Unlike the Moto-9, which uses a plastic insert for the lug, the Moto-10 uses a brass insert. That sharper edge may be what’s causing the plastic to shear even under non-impact pressure.

What It Means for Riders

That means riders are losing visors from luggage damage, not on the bike. And replacement costs? $110 for a new visor—without a spare included anymore. Back when the Moto-10 first launched, you got an extra peak. Now? Not so much. That visor kit also includes a chin piece, which you may not even need. So you’re paying for extras when you just want a fix.

Bell’s Working On It

Good news though: Bell is already on the case. They’re developing updated lugs with more pliability to reduce these breakages. That’s great for future buyers, but not as comforting if you already own one and are on your second (or third) visor.

How to Prevent It Now

So, here’s what I’ve started doing. You know those hard cases for goggles? They happen to fit perfectly under the Moto-10 visor. Now, whenever I travel—locally or internationally—I tuck the case under the peak before zipping up my gear bag.

It only lets the peak move about 20mm if there’s impact from above, which prevents the lugs from breaking. You could use a towel, too, but the hard shell adds another level of protection.

Simple Fix for a Premium Lid

We’re not trying to bag out the Moto-10—it’s an incredible helmet. The Spherical Technology, airflow, comfort liner—it all makes it an elite piece of gear. But this is just one quirk we learned the hard way and wanted to share so others don’t have to deal with the same annoyance.

Final Thoughts

The Bell Moto-10 Spherical is still, in our opinion, the best off-road helmet out there. Nothing comes close when it comes to comfort, airflow, and safety. But if you’re going to invest that kind of money into a helmet, make sure it’s protected even when it’s off your head.

A tiny $2 plastic lug shouldn’t be the reason you’re shelling out another $110. Pack smart, use a buffer under the visor, and ride on knowing your Moto-10 is ready for whatever comes next.

Bell Moto-10 Spherical Helmet

Bell’s most advanced dirt bike helmet, the Moto-10 Spherical, delivers top-tier impact protection, airflow, and pro-level comfort for serious riders.

Pros:

• Spherical Mips® tech for superior safety
• Excellent ventilation system
• Comfortable, cooling liner with easy-to-remove cheek pads

Cons:

• Expensive
• Slightly heavy
• Snug fit may need break-in

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We may earn commissions if you make a purchase. This keeps our site ad-free and never sponsored.

The post Long-Term Bell Moto-10 Helmet Review & Preventing Visor Breakage first appeared on It's Better On The Road.

This article is based on the video by Josh from AusMoto.

First Impressions & Why I Bought It

Let’s be honest—price was a big factor. At around $300, the Bell MX-9 Adventure is firmly in the budget category. That’s exactly why I picked it up. But despite its lower price, it still ticks some pretty important boxes. It’s certified to the main Australian safety standards and, more importantly, it comes with Mips technology, which is designed to reduce rotational forces in a crash. I haven’t put it through any extreme tests—thankfully—but I have had a couple of minor offs. And hey, I’m still here and functioning, so it seems to be doing its job.

Bell MX-9 Mips Helmet

A budget-friendly dual-sport helmet with Mips safety tech, great airflow, and comms compatibility—ideal for adventure riders on a budget.

Pros:

• Mips tech for added crash protection
• Excellent ventilation
• Speaker cutouts for easy intercom setup

Cons:

• Noticeable wind noise at speed
• Some vents can’t be closed
• No internal sun visor

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The Only Helmet I’ve Used for Everything

I should mention, this is my first adventure helmet. I’ve owned road bike helmets before and even an Enduro lid, but this was my intro to the adventure segment. And it quickly became my go-to for every type of riding. Whether I was out on a road bike, an Enduro, or hitting the trails on an adventure bike, the MX-9 came with me. I’ve literally used it as my only helmet for the last three years.

Fit, Comfort & Compatibility

One of the standout features for me has been how well it works with intercoms. The ear cups are shaped just right for speaker placement—no foam cutting necessary. That’s not always the case with other helmets I’ve tried. Just slot the speakers in and you’re good to go.

Comfort-wise, it does the job, but there’s a catch: weight. It’s noticeably heavier than other helmets I’ve tried on. Add a GoPro and an intercom unit and it starts to feel like you’re carrying a bowling ball on your head. So yeah, the heaviness is something you’ll notice, especially on long rides.

What It Has (and What It Doesn’t)

Feature-wise, it’s pretty barebones. No built-in sun visor, no Pinlock-ready face shield, just a standard clear visor. It does have a removable peak, which I’ve actually taken off when I had my Honda Hornet. At higher speeds, that peak catches wind like a sail, and it’s not fun. Without it, the helmet’s much more aerodynamic.

But here’s what impressed me: nothing’s broken. The straps are still solid. The liner’s still in place. The vents haven’t cracked. And keep in mind, I’ve used this thing hard. It’s been tossed around and bashed during off-road riding, and it’s still structurally sound.

Build Quality: Tougher Than You’d Expect

You know how you sometimes hear that gear made in China isn’t reliable? That hasn’t been the case here. As far as I know, Bell products are made there now, but this one has held up surprisingly well. From trail crashes to being dumped on the garage floor, it’s taken more than a few knocks without falling apart.

Wind Noise: The Biggest Downside

Alright, let’s talk about the elephant in the room—wind noise. It’s loud. I’d heard about this before buying it, and yep, it’s true. I wear earplugs on every ride, but depending on which type I’m using, the noise can still wear you down over time. And if I use plugs that block out enough wind noise, I end up cutting out more sound than I’d like—including engine noise and road awareness. Not ideal.

This is probably the number one reason I’m looking to upgrade. The wind noise isn’t a dealbreaker if you’re mostly off-road or riding slow, but it definitely becomes a factor during longer highway rides.

The Weight Issue (Again)

I mentioned the weight earlier, but it deserves another callout. When you ride long distances or spend hours on rough trails, that extra weight adds up—especially with accessories mounted. After a full day of riding, your neck’s going to feel it. For someone doing multi-day rides or long highway stretches, this might be a problem.

So, What’s Next?

I’m currently eyeing the Arai XD-4 as a possible upgrade. I’ll need to go try a few helmets on and see what fits best. But after three years with the MX-9, I can say it’s definitely time to move on.

Final Thoughts: A Solid Choice for the Budget Rider

Look, this helmet has done its job. For the price, it’s been a solid performer. It’s survived some off-road spills, stayed comfortable enough for day-to-day use, and hasn’t fallen apart. If you’re new to ADV riding or you just want a solid helmet that won’t drain your bank account, I’d still recommend the Bell MX-9 Adventure Mips.

Just be aware of the wind noise and the weight. If those two things don’t bother you, or you’re mostly riding shorter distances, this helmet could be a great match.

Bell MX-9 Mips Helmet

A budget-friendly dual-sport helmet with Mips safety tech, great airflow, and comms compatibility—ideal for adventure riders on a budget.

Pros:

• Mips tech for added crash protection
• Excellent ventilation
• Speaker cutouts for easy intercom setup

Cons:

• Noticeable wind noise at speed
• Some vents can’t be closed
• No internal sun visor

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The post Bell MX-9 Adventure Mips: My Experience After 3 Years, 30k+ km first appeared on It's Better On The Road.

It replaces the old Arai Tour X4, which I also owned in the Vision Grey version. There’s been a 12-year gap between that one and this one, and the changes are immense. The X4 was already a cracking helmet, but this one—while superb—still has a few quirks I’ll touch on.

This article is based on the video by The Black Country Rider.

Design & Safety Features

The XD-5 complies with the latest ECE 22.06 regulations. It’s more rounded compared to the X4, which had a more pointed peak and visor. The rounder shell is inspired by Arai’s RX-7 and features the Quantic vent on top.

Arai designed the helmet with a more rounded R75 profile, which means in an impact, it’s meant to glide over the surface instead of catching and causing rotational injuries. While there’s still a peak on the helmet, it’s flexible and likely designed to snap off during an accident to minimize injury.

This one’s the Cosmic Yellow colorway—bit bright for some, but I think it looks smart. Price-wise, you’re looking at about £599 for the plain color and £699 for the colored version.

Build Quality

Arai XD-5 Helmet

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The sequel to the legendary XD-4 helmet, this lid improves in every way from its round shell design to flexible shield that always fits, goggles or not.

Pros:

• Quietest ADV helmet
• Removable peak
• Tons of ventilation
• Can use with googles
• DOT and Snell approved

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It’s made from a complex laminate construction with fiberglass weave and a reinforced belt across the top. Arai’s EPS liner uses three different densities all molded as a single piece, which is rare and designed purely for better safety.

No drop-down sun visor in this one—Arai doesn’t compromise on shell integrity. If you want sunlight protection, you can wear sunglasses or choose a tinted visor. There’s also the optional transitional visor on other brands like Klim, but not here.

Still, I believe Arai makes the safest helmets on the planet.

Fit & Comfort

It comes in three shell sizes and five head sizes: XS to XL. I’m normally between medium and large; I had to go with large here. It’s extremely comfortable once on.

The cheek pads come with removable 5mm liners in case it’s too snug.

The included Pinlock is an XLT 120—“extra light” with 2% more light transmission and better clarity compared to the older version. Installation is much easier now too, with no gaps or warping.

Ventilation

Ventilation is a strong point:

• Ventilation with 3 settings: closed, half, and fully open.
• Top vent (Quantic-style) and three rear exhaust ports.
• Internal rear channels to force hot air out.

That said, I do miss the visor vents on the old X4. They worked well, but apparently caused water leaks and noise in heavy rain—so Arai ditched them.

There’s also a chin spoiler that pulls down, which helps a lot with wind noise and airflow around your mouth.

Inside the helmet, there’s a chin vent slider with three settings:

• Up: completely closed.
• Middle: airflow directed up into the visor.
• Down: airflow straight into your mouth.

The ventilation on this helmet is superb—absolutely superb. I’ve got no complaints whatsoever.

Two Small Gripes

1. Lost visor vents – The new design has better airflow overall, but I still liked those old visor vents. It would be good if Arai did come up with a transition visor like Klim Krios Pro have done.
2. Microphone placement – I use a DJI mic, and in this helmet, it ends up too close to my mouth. Doesn’t affect the helmet function, just my setup.

Versatility

The XD-5 is genuinely versatile—whether you ride with both the peak and visor for adventure touring, remove the peak for a sleek street setup, or ditch the visor and run goggles for off-road use, it offers three distinct configurations depending on your riding style.

You can even lift the visor and still fit goggles underneath. It’s genuinely a 3-in-1 helmet.

Removing the visor and peak is easy—one screw on each side. A 20p coin will do the job.

Ride Experience

The vision through the visor is superb. It’s clear, wide, and vivid. The visor has multiple detents, and some riders said at around 30mph it drops slightly, leaving a small gap. Personally, I’ve had mine halfway open at speed and it’s been fine.

This helmet is a bit heavier—around 1700g—but it feels solid. Compared to something like the Klim Krios Pro (which is lighter), this one scores higher in sound reduction and build.

Final Thoughts

Overall, I’m really pleased with the XD-5. Two little complaints aside, it’s probably the best helmet I’ve owned. At £699, it’s not cheap—but if it’s protecting your brain, it’s worth every penny.

They say you either have an Arai head or a Shoei head—and I guess I have an Arai head. It fits me perfectly and feels incredible to ride with.

Is it perfect? No. But it’s close enough for me to recommend it without hesitation.

Thanks for reading. If you’re thinking about getting one, I hope this helped.

Arai XD-5 Helmet

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The sequel to the legendary XD-4 helmet, this lid improves in every way from its round shell design to flexible shield that always fits, goggles or not.

Pros:

• Quietest ADV helmet
• Removable peak
• Tons of ventilation
• Can use with googles
• DOT and Snell approved

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The post Personal Review: Arai XD-5 / Tour X5 Helmet Pros & Cons first appeared on It's Better On The Road.

This article is based on the video by Ster Shady.

First Impressions: Budget-Friendly and Built Well

Biltwell Gringo

The Biltwell Gringo ECE 22.06 Helmet combines vintage aesthetics with modern safety standards, offering riders a minimalist design without compromising on protection.

Pros:

• Stylish retro look
• ECE 22.06 safety rated
• Comfortable interior

Cons:

• No built-in visor

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Alright, so this is just the basic OG Gringo helmet made by Biltwell. First pro — this thing’s cheap. Like, if you’re price-conscious and you’re trying to find the best bang for your buck, I 1,000% recommend this guy. Right now, they have a closeout sale — they’ve been doing it for the last couple months — it’s like 125 bucks. It’s probably the cheapest helmet I’ve seen that’s not crap.

You can see there’s the DOT — that’s what you want. Make sure it’s a good quality helmet. But yeah, Biltwell Gringo, cheapest thing you can probably find.

Sleek Looks: Low-Profile and Clean

Another big pro? It just looks sick. I get asked about it all the time — people stop and ask what helmet it is, and I get why. It’s super low-profile and minimalist. I’ve got the matte black version, and I love how subtle it is. No flashy colors, no wild graphics. Just clean, chill, and stylish.

If you want a helmet that looks as good as it rides, this one nails it.

Comfort: Eventually Awesome, But Takes Patience

This one’s both a pro and a con. When I first got it, the fit was tight — like, uncomfortably tight. I wear a large, but this large fit smaller than other helmets I’ve owned. I even had to get creative to break it in — I stuck a deflated soccer ball in there, pumped it up, and let it sit for a couple of days.

Apparently, Biltwell uses the same shell for medium and large sizes, and just adjusts the interior padding. So yeah, it was narrow — especially around the jaw. Took about a week of solid riding before it started feeling right. But once it broke in, it fit like a glove. Now it’s super comfortable.

Visor Options: Simple, Swappable, and Stylish

One cool feature is the swappable visors. I’ve tried a few — the clear bubble shield, the dark smoke shield, and the standard flat plate I use now. They’re easy to switch out and give you different looks depending on your mood or the weather.

Biltwell Bubble Anti-Fog Face Shield

The Biltwell Bubble Anti-Fog Face Shield adds vintage flair and practical fog resistance to any 3-snap helmet setup.

Pros:

• Retro bubble style enhances helmet aesthetics
• Anti-fog interior for better visibility
• Easy snap-on fit for most 3-snap helmets

Cons:

• No UV protection listed
• Can catch wind at higher speeds
• May not fit all helmet brands perfectly

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But here’s the thing — if you’re planning to ride at night, make sure you carry your clear visor in your backpack or saddlebags. The dark smoke looks amazing during the day, but it’s not practical after dark. Sometimes I just rock the clear and throw on sunglasses, which works too.

Upgrading to the Gringo S: Worth It?

Biltwell Gringo S ECE 22.06

A retro-styled full-face helmet that combines classic design with modern safety standards.

Pros:

• ECE-certified for enhanced safety
• Lightweight construction
• Cushioned chin bar for comfort

Cons:

• Limited ventilation
• Visor may not stay in a cracked-open position
• Can be noisy at higher speeds.

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Because I liked the OG Gringo so much, I decided to try the Gringo S. It was around $275 — still pretty budget-friendly — and comes with a flip-up visor.

The Gringo S: Where It Falls Short

The visor on the Gringo S ended up being a letdown. It created this annoying buffeting effect whenever I went over 70 mph — like air would get under it and cause it to shake. It’s distracting, especially on longer rides.

Even worse, I bought the recommended dark smoke visor for it… and it didn’t fit right. It wouldn’t snap down all the way. Total bummer. So now I just use the Gringo S with sunglasses, but honestly, I don’t wear it often. Between the buffeting and the visor issue, it’s kind of a backup helmet for me now.

Comparing the Fit and Finish

If you put the two side by side — the Gringo and the Gringo S — there’s a noticeable difference. The OG Gringo feels solid, snug, and quiet. No vibrations, no weird air pockets, just a clean, quiet ride. The Gringo S, unfortunately, doesn’t hold up the same way.

That said, the S still has DOT certification, and the build quality isn’t bad. It just didn’t meet my expectations, especially after how much I liked the original.

Add-Ons and Customization

I’ve got my Sena communicator hooked up in the Gringo, and it’s been a smooth setup. Speakers fit in just fine, and there’s enough room to wire everything without issue. If you’re using comms, this helmet plays nice with them.

Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Get?

To wrap it up:

• Biltwell Gringo – Solid 8/10. Comfortable (after break-in), stylish, cheap, and does the job.
• Biltwell Gringo S – More like a 6/10. Not terrible, but the visor and buffeting issues are real.

At the end of the day, I’m still stoked on the original Gringo. I own three of them now. That kind of says it all.

If you’re looking for an affordable helmet that looks good, feels good, and gets the job done, I’d 1,000% recommend the Biltwell Gringo. Just know what you’re getting — it’s not the most protective helmet on the market, but for the price, it’s honestly hard to beat.

Biltwell Gringo

The Biltwell Gringo ECE 22.06 Helmet combines vintage aesthetics with modern safety standards, offering riders a minimalist design without compromising on protection.

Pros:

• Stylish retro look
• ECE 22.06 safety rated
• Comfortable interior

Cons:

• No built-in visor

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The post My Go-To Helmet: BiltWell Gringo vs. Gringo S Breakdown first appeared on It's Better On The Road.

This article is based on the video by LamboDEB.

First Impressions and Fit Right Off the Bat

When I first picked it up, the LS2 Rapid looked pretty decent. I even threw on a tinted visor to add some flair. It’s got vents on the front and top, and on paper, that sounds like decent airflow. It’s also DOT and ECE 22.05 certified—so it checks the safety boxes for both the US and Europe.

LS2 Rapid Helmet

The LS2 Rapid is a lightweight, full-face helmet designed for everyday riders who want solid protection and comfort at a budget-friendly price.

Pros:

• Affordable entry-level helmet
• Lightweight thermoplastic shell
• Quick-release strap and Pinlock-ready visor

Cons:

• Limited ventilation
• Noticeable wind noise at high speeds
• Basic padding and liner quality

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But that first try-on? Super tight on the cheeks. Not a dealbreaker—most helmets break in and loosen slightly with time—but it’s something to be aware of.

The Chin Bar Issue: Not a Perfect Fit

Here’s my main gripe: once I start riding, the helmet doesn’t stay in place. The chin bar ends up sitting too high—sometimes right at my lips instead of under my chin. It just doesn’t feel like it seats down low enough on my head.

Worse, it feels like it’s lifting off my head at speed. I have to push it down while riding to reposition it properly. The fact that I have to manually adjust it mid-ride? Not great.

Quick-Release Chin Strap: Handy But Flawed

The quick-release chin strap is a mixed bag. It’s easy to fasten and unfasten—just click and pull—but once it’s on, it doesn’t really tighten further. There’s slack, and sometimes the extra strap flaps around.

Maybe the design includes engineered flex to reduce neck strain in a crash. Still, it feels loose and a bit unsettling, especially if you’re used to D-rings.

Interior Comfort and Installing a Comms System

The interior padding is… fine. Not plush, but not bad for the price. But note: the chin bar padding doesn’t come out. That’s a pain when you’re running wires for a mic.

Now, if you plan to add a comm system, here’s your heads-up. The speaker pockets (if they even exist?) are shallow. My ears got folded painfully when I put the helmet on with the speakers installed. I had to wiggle my ears into place manually.

Eventually, I adjusted the speaker position lower to avoid the folding. But it took some trial and error to get there.

Ventilation: Mostly for Show?

On paper, the helmet has vents. In practice? I opened and closed the front one while riding and… nothing. I couldn’t tell a difference in airflow.

My theory is the chin fit problem messes with the air circulation. Since the helmet sits high, maybe the vent isn’t aligned properly with my face. So airflow ends up ineffective—or at least inconsistent.

Noise Levels: Manageable But Not Whisper-Quiet

Compared to no helmet? Sure, it’s quieter. Compared to high-end lids? No idea—I haven’t worn one in a while. But I can hear my comm system clearly and carry conversations, so the wind noise hasn’t been a huge issue.

Aesthetics: Cool Graphics With a Surprise Feature

One neat touch: the helmet has graphics that glow in the dark. Specifically, the eyes. First time I saw it glowing? It spooked me—I wasn’t expecting it. But it’s a cool feature that adds personality.

Final Thoughts: Budget Helmet With Compromises

So, should you buy it?

If this is the only helmet in the shop that fits your head and your budget, then yes—go for it. It’s affordable, looks cool, and meets safety standards.

But know this:

• It may ride up and leave your chin exposed.
• Ventilation could be hit or miss.
• Speaker installation might be a hassle.
• The strap may feel loose.

It’s not the most refined helmet out there, but for its price, it’s a decent entry-level choice. Just manage your expectations, and you’ll be fine.

LS2 Rapid Helmet

The LS2 Rapid is a lightweight, full-face helmet designed for everyday riders who want solid protection and comfort at a budget-friendly price.

Pros:

• Affordable entry-level helmet
• Lightweight thermoplastic shell
• Quick-release strap and Pinlock-ready visor

Cons:

• Limited ventilation
• Noticeable wind noise at high speeds
• Basic padding and liner quality

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The post Living With the LS2 Rapid Helmet: My Experience & Issues first appeared on It's Better On The Road.

This article is based on the video by Ride With Danger.

Fit, Comfort & Weight

Let’s start with the shape. This helmet is made more for long oval head shapes. I don’t have the most oval-shaped head in the world, but it still works for me. It’s a bit narrow, yeah, but I’ve been wearing it for years and haven’t had any major discomfort.

Weight is also pretty average, it is aerodynamic and does fine on longer rides.

Style That Starts Conversations

Icon Airflite Helmets

Affordable, aggressive helmet that comes in more graphic options than we can count. Great look for sportbike riders.

Pros:

• Striking aesthetics with a variety of bold graphics.
• Large, anti-fog face shield enhances visibility.
• Integrated drop-down sun visor for added convenience.

Cons:

• Slightly heavier than average, which may affect comfort on longer rides.
• Higher wind noise levels compared to some competitors.
• Visor may be prone to scratching if not handled carefully.

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Let’s be honest — a big reason people grab this helmet is the look. Other than my motorcycle, the helmet is the thing people talk to me about most. Seriously. It turns heads and sparks conversations. If you want something that makes a statement, this is it.

I started out with the clear visor, which looks fine, but doesn’t really give you that “wow” factor. What does? The customizable visors. I’ve got the red one, but you can mix and match with matte black shells, blue visors, chrome, and more. Icon gives you so many options to play with. It’s honestly one of my favorite parts.

Icon Airflite Face Shield

The Icon Airflite Face Shield adds style and functionality to your helmet. Available in multiple tints, it’s easy to swap and great for customizing your look.

Pros:

• Wide tint and color options
• Quick, tool-free installation
• Stylish upgrade for any Airflite helmet

Cons:

• Only fits Icon Airflite helmets
• Dark tints reduce low-light visibility
• Some tints scratch easily

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That Drop-Down Sun Visor Is Clutch

One feature I forgot about until I started filming this — the drop-down sun visor. I’ve got it down right now just to remind myself to talk about it.

It’s super convenient. If you’re riding with a clear shield and suddenly hit some sunlight, you can just flick the switch — boom. Instant sunshade. And yes, you can customize that too.

Icon Airflite Inner Sun Shield

The Icon Inner Sun Shield drops down easily to block glare and enhance visibility. It's compatible with Airflite, Airform, and Alliance GT helmets.

Pros:

• Instant sun protection
• Available in multiple tints
• Reduces glare and eye strain

Cons:

• Only fits specific Icon helmets
• Tints not ideal in low light
• May require effort to install

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Let’s Talk Vents — Because Ventilation Is Awesome

Okay, I’ve gotta vent to you about the vents. But seriously — the airflow on this helmet is solid. I’ve got all the vents open right now, even with my GoPro sitting right on the chin vent, and I still get a good amount of airflow.

That chin vent has three positions: open, closed, and a middle click that pushes air up onto the visor. I don’t get much fogging, even when I’m breathing heavy in stop-and-go traffic in Georgia heat. And when I do? It clears right up as soon as I start moving again.

When I have the secondary sun visor down, I believe it frees up a little more of the ventilation up top. So, if you have the sun visor up and you’re not using it, I think it lessens the effectiveness of the two vents up top of the helmet. I could be wrong about that, but to me, it feels that way. With the internal visor down, the airflow seems slightly more noticeable from the upper vents.

I mean, even with the main face shield closed and the vents open, it’s still nice. You still get plenty of ventilation coming through. I have no complaints about the ventilation of this helmet, it is awesome. The Hydra Dry material is moisture-wicking and keeps you cool.

Icon Airflite Helmet Liner

The Icon Airflite Helmet Liner features HydraDry™ moisture-wicking material to keep riders cool and dry. Designed for a snug, contoured fit, it's a washable replacement liner that restores comfort and freshness to your Icon Airflite helmet.

Pros:

• Easy to install
• Washable for convenient cleaning
• Restores helmet's original comfort and fit

Cons:

• Compatible only with Icon Airflite helmets
• May require precise sizing selection
• Limited availability in some regions

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What About Fogging?

Honestly, fogging is almost a non-issue. I’ve sat in traffic, breathing on the visor, and yeah it’ll start to fog a little… but then I move and it’s gone. If it ever gets bad, I just flip the whole visor up, wipe it real quick, and keep going.

Wind Noise — It’s There, But Not a Dealbreaker

Now, if you’re looking for the quietest helmet out there, this ain’t it. There’s wind noise, no doubt. But I wouldn’t say it’s worse than most helmets in the same price range.

Also, there’s this “whistle issue” that some people talk about. I’ve only heard it when I literally try to make it whistle. Like I have to turn my head just right and even then it’s not annoying. So, not really a problem for me.

GoPro Mounting: Works But Comes With Compromises

If you’re filming your rides like me, this is for you. I’ve got my GoPro mounted to the front, which is perfect for POV footage. The downside? You lose some visor function.

Without the GoPro, I could cruise with the visor all the way up. With the GoPro? It starts to fall down at higher speeds. I also can’t lift it past a certain point because of the mic wire. If you use a Sena or something wireless, that’s fine. But if you’re using a mic adapter like me? You’re gonna run into limits.

Durability: 5 Years In, Still Going Strong

This helmet has taken its share of sun, sweat, and road grime — and it’s still in great shape. The materials have held up really well. Nothing’s falling apart, no weird peeling or broken mechanisms. For the price, I’d say it’s been a fantastic investment.

Final Thoughts: Should You Get One?

This is my honest take — I’ve been wearing this helmet for five years because it works. It’s not perfect, but the style, comfort, airflow, and customization make it a winner in my book.

Ride safe out there — there are a lot of idiots on the road. I’m one of them.

Icon Airflite Helmets

Affordable, aggressive helmet that comes in more graphic options than we can count. Great look for sportbike riders.

Pros:

• Striking aesthetics with a variety of bold graphics.
• Large, anti-fog face shield enhances visibility.
• Integrated drop-down sun visor for added convenience.

Cons:

• Slightly heavier than average, which may affect comfort on longer rides.
• Higher wind noise levels compared to some competitors.
• Visor may be prone to scratching if not handled carefully.

Check Price on Revzilla

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The post Icon Airflite Motorcycle Helmet Review (5 Years Ownership) first appeared on It's Better On The Road.

I needed something more sealed and functional.

What caught my eye with the Stryker was that it came with built-in Bluetooth and comms — no aftermarket units to install. That was a big draw. It also had a few other features I thought were worth checking out.

This article is based on the video below by Tom Charnock.

Build & Design: Function First

The Sena Stryker is a full-face helmet — a must-have for me to avoid visor leaks. The main visor locks down firmly with a sturdy little nodule system. It ratchets to different positions, though I usually ride with it fully open or closed. It’s simple but works.

There’s also an internal sun visor, operated by a catch on the side. You just flick it and it slides down or back up. It works easily even with gloves.

Sena Stryker Mesh Intercom Helmet

Top of the line Sena intercom, sound by Harman Kardon, sun visor, even a tail light... what's not to love?

Pros:

• Mesh & Bluetooth built-in
• Harman Kardon speakers and mic
• Drop-down sun visor
• LED tail light
• 18 hour battery life

Cons:

• Can't upgrade the communicator

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Ventilation is solid: chin vent, top vents — all easy to open/close with gloves. The airflow is decent when you’re riding head-on into the wind. Some reviewers mentioned the vents felt cheap or plasticky, but in my experience, they’ve worked fine. They feel sturdy enough and function well.

Fogging and Rain Protection: A Dealbreaker Solved

This was one of my biggest concerns. The Sena Stryker doesn’t have a Pinlock, but it does feature an anti-fog treated visor and a breath deflector inside the chin bar. Between the inner coating and the redirection of breath downward, I haven’t had a single issue with fogging — not once in several weeks of use. That’s a big improvement over the Shark Evo ES, which would fog up and leak like crazy.

The visor fits very snugly in the frame, keeping water out even in the worst rain. That was one of my biggest problems with my previous helmet, so this has been a huge win.

Fit and Finish: Mostly Good

Fit-wise, I grabbed a small (yes, small head here). The fiberglass shell holds both DOT and ECE safety ratings (E1 stamped for German testing). The fit is snug without being tight, and it’s stable across both my Royal Enfield and Yamaha Fazer. No wobbling or buffeting even at motorway speeds.

A closer look at the Stryker revealed a slightly off-center chin vent and some early fraying near the sun visor slot—nothing major, but noticeable. These cosmetic flaws are relatively minor and don’t affect function, but worth pointing out considering the price.

Road Noise and Comfort

Comfort-wise, it’s a quiet helmet. Road noise is far less than what I was used to in my modular helmet. The only slight downside is that if you’re not wearing a neck gaiter, a bit of air sneaks up from underneath, but tilting your head down helps. Overall, very comfortable.

The Tech: Sena’s Built-In Bluetooth

Let’s talk features. The integrated Sena system was one of the big selling points. It has:

• Bluetooth phone and media controls
• FM radio
• Voice assistant support (including “Hey Siri” and Google Assistant)
• Harman Kardon speakers and mic
• LED tail light (configurable via app)
• Mesh intercom (Open Mesh)

From calls to music and navigation, the Stryker’s built-in Bluetooth system keeps you connected and in control while you ride.

You control everything via four physical buttons on the helmet. Pairing is fairly simple once you’ve connected it to the Sena app, but firmware updates were a pain. You need the app + Wi-Fi to get new features. The app isn’t the most intuitive, but it’s essential for customizing settings. Once it’s up and running, it’s brilliant.

The helmet has a microphone embedded in the chin guard. You can activate your voice assistant by saying the wake word, like “Hey Siri,” and then give commands like “play music” or “navigate home.” While demonstrating this just now, my phone on the table actually picked up my voice command, which goes to show how sensitive and effective the microphone is, even when speaking inside the helmet. You can easily tell it to play music from your streaming service of choice, whether that’s Apple Music, Tidal, Spotify, or anything similar.

You can also activate map directions through the system. If you have a dedicated Bluetooth GPS unit mounted on your dash, you can potentially pair with that, although I personally just use my phone mounted on a holder for navigation, so I have the visual maps there alongside the audio directions in the helmet.

Another cool feature of this helmet is something called Open Mesh. I haven’t actually had a chance to use this yet, mainly because I don’t currently know anyone else who rides and has a motorcycle helmet with Bluetooth or an integrated intercom system like this. So, I haven’t been able to test out the mesh intercom feature where you can talk to other riders. However, I have made phone calls using the system while I’ve been riding, and the sound quality for phone calls is superb.

The tail light at the back remembers your settings from the app. I had mine set to flash while riding at dusk, and it stayed that way automatically. Small touches like that add visibility and convenience.

Battery and Charging

The charging port is magnetic, kind of like the old MagSafe Mac chargers. Super easy to use. Battery life? I’ve charged it once in several weeks and it’s still going strong. Sena claims 18 hours of talk/audio, and that seems legit.

They even include an adapter for USB-C charging if needed.

Usability on the Road

The chin strap uses a ratcheted quick-release, which is a breeze compared to D-rings. The liner is removable for washing. All very straightforward.

In terms of actual use: the helmet is stable, comfy, and quiet. No neck fatigue. No rain seepage. And the tech just works.

Final Thoughts: Worth It?

I know Sena isn’t as legendary as Arai or Shoei in the helmet game. But for £400 (on sale), getting all this tech + safety + comfort in one package feels like a great deal.

Sure, the setup process is frustrating, and there are a few minor build quality quirks. But nothing that affects function. For anyone looking to upgrade to a tech-enabled full-face lid that works in UK weather — this is a solid choice.

If you’ve got questions I didn’t cover, feel free to drop them in the comments. Cheers for reading – and ride safe.

Sena Stryker Mesh Intercom Helmet

Top of the line Sena intercom, sound by Harman Kardon, sun visor, even a tail light... what's not to love?

Pros:

• Mesh & Bluetooth built-in
• Harman Kardon speakers and mic
• Drop-down sun visor
• LED tail light
• 18 hour battery life

Cons:

• Can't upgrade the communicator

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The post My Sena Stryker Helmet Review: Integrated Tech and Riding Experience first appeared on It's Better On The Road.

This article is based on the video below.

First Attempt: Scorpion R420

I actually started my search with a more budget-friendly option—the Scorpion R420. It had solid reviews and felt pretty good when I first tried it on. But once I installed my comm system (gotta have music and GPS while riding), things went downhill fast. The speaker placement just didn’t work for me, and it ended up hurting my ear pretty badly—like, actual throbbing pain that lasted a couple of days. As much as I liked the price, I had to return it. If a helmet can’t handle a comm system comfortably, it’s a dealbreaker for me.

Discovering the AGV K6 S

Then I found the AGV K6 S in-store and tried it on. Instant comfort. It was super lightweight, and I immediately felt the difference compared to my old Sedici. The Sedici made my head feel like a bobblehead on the highway. The K6 S? None of that.

AGV K6 S Helmet

A lightweight and aerodynamic helmet designed for ultimate comfort and protection, inspired by MotoGP technology.

Pros:

• Featherlight carbon-aramid shell for reduced fatigue
• Expansive field of view with anti-fog Pinlock lens
• The lightest full face around

Cons:

• Premium price tag

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ECE 22.06 vs. Snell: The Safety Talk

One of the things that sold me was the ECE 22.06 rating. Unlike Snell, which focuses on high-energy single impacts at specific points, ECE 22.06 includes multiple impact zones and rotational force testing. That sounds a lot more like what actually happens in motorcycle crashes. Real-world protection over track-only stats.

Inspired by the Pros

I mean, it’s AGV—Valentino Rossi wore it, so it can’t be that bad of a brand, right? Or, well, he used to… I think he’s retired now, but still. I also follow a local motovlogger, Adobo Moto, and he rides with an AGV too—not sure which model, but it’s one of the high-end ones that costs like $1,200. Seeing someone I actually follow using the brand definitely gave me more confidence in my choice.

Color Choice and the Visor Saga

I originally wanted the AGV in white, but it was out of stock—so I went with matte black instead, and honestly, it looks pretty slick. Later on, I grabbed a dark silver visor for it, which turned out to be way harder to find than I expected. AGV was apparently updating inventory for the new models, and both K6 S and regular K6 visors were either out of stock or discontinued. I ended up snagging a K6 visor from RevZilla after getting a restock alert—just in time, because I had also ordered one from Amazon that’s still on the way. If that one’s decent, I’ll keep it as a backup. Swapping visors on this helmet is super easy, which makes it really convenient when the light changes.

AGV K6 S / K6 ECE 22.06 Face Shield

High-quality face shield for AGV K6 and K6 S helmets, built for clarity, protection, and fog resistance.

Pros:

• Thick and impact-resistant
• Wide, clear field of view
• Pinlock-ready anti-fog coating

Cons:

• No built-in sun tint
• Tricky latch with gloves
• Higher price point

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Premium Shell Without the Premium Price

This helmet uses a carbon-aramid-fiberglass mix that’s heavily carbon fiber-based—and you really feel it in the weight. It’s super light on the head, which makes a big difference on longer rides. Carbon fiber is known for its strength-to-weight ratio and tends to be more abrasion-resistant than polycarbonate shells, though each material has its trade-offs. What really surprised me is that the K6 S shell is based on AGV’s flagship Pista GP RR race helmet. Getting that kind of high-end design in a road-focused lid is seriously impressive.

AGV Pista GP RR Helmet

The pinnacle of race helmet engineering, this lid is used to protect the heads of some of the most famous athletes in motorcycle history.

Pros:

• 100% carbon fiber
• Secure visor lock system
• Pinlock included and tear-off ready
• Literally used in MotoGP

Cons:

• Very expensive
• Not commuter-friendly
• High wind noise

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Padding, Comfort, and Comm System Fit

Inside, the padding is plush and comfortable. But I do wish the speaker pockets were a little deeper. My comm system fits, but I have to crank the volume up to hear clearly at speed. Small nitpick, but something to consider if you use Bluetooth comms.

Wind Noise vs. Weight

Compared to the Sedici, the K6 S is noisier. It’s not a quiet helmet. But the lightweight shell and aerodynamic shape make it so much more comfortable over long rides. No neck fatigue. No buffeting. I always wear earplugs anyway, so the noise isn’t a dealbreaker.

Real-World Aerodynamics

Aerodynamically, it cuts through air beautifully. My head doesn’t wobble at speed, and the shape clearly helps with long-ride stability. It makes highway miles feel easier.

Even on days with a crosswind, the K6 S holds up pretty well. I noticed less strain on my neck after long rides, which really adds up if you’re doing 2+ hour trips. It’s one of those things you don’t really appreciate until you switch from a heavier lid and realize, oh, this is what a wind-tunnel-tested shell actually feels like.

Fitment and Sizing

This helmet fits my “weird” head perfectly. Not too tight, not too loose—just snug. Fit is everything in a helmet, and this one nailed it for me. No shifting or lifting, even on the freeway.

The cheek pads break in a little after a few rides, which made the fit even better. I’ve had helmets where the padding compresses too much too fast, but this one still feels secure after several weeks of use.

Ventilation and Everyday Use

One thing I forgot to mention earlier: the ventilation. It’s decent. Not the best I’ve felt, but the vents are functional. There’s a forehead vent and a chin vent, and they’re both easy to open or close with gloves on. You won’t get crazy airflow like in a full race helmet, but for most riding conditions, it does the job. No fogging issues so far either.

Daily use has been great. Whether it’s commuting or weekend rides, the helmet feels reliable. The liner dries quickly, and even after sweating a bit on warm days, it doesn’t hold moisture for too long. That helps keep it from smelling funky, which is always a win.

Final Verdict

Five out of five from me. It’s not the cheapest, but it punches way above its price in terms of comfort, safety features, weight, and overall ride quality. If you’re looking for something high-performing without the $1000+ race helmet price tag, the AGV K6 S is an absolute win.

AGV K6 S Helmet

A lightweight and aerodynamic helmet designed for ultimate comfort and protection, inspired by MotoGP technology.

Pros:

• Featherlight carbon-aramid shell for reduced fatigue
• Expansive field of view with anti-fog Pinlock lens
• The lightest full face around

Cons:

• Premium price tag

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Stay safe out there, and good luck picking your next lid!

The post AGV K6 S Helmet Review: Why I Chose It & Key Learnings first appeared on It's Better On The Road.

This article is based on the video below by MyMoto.

Three Unexpected Standouts

While riding, three things immediately caught my attention:

• Generous ear room: If you’ve ever felt your ears squashed on a ride, this helmet’s for you.
• Eyewear-fit cheek pads: They have a soft recess for glasses that still seals tight when you’re not wearing specs.
• Smooth sun visor mechanism: The new cable system is super smooth, engaging both sides at once—feels way more premium than past AGV lids.

AGV K3

The AGV K3 is a full-face helmet that delivers AGV safety and comfort at an affordable price.

Pros:

• Lightweight HIR-TH shell for comfort and durability
• Integrated drop-down sun visor for convenience
• Excellent ventilation system with multiple air intakes and exhausts

Cons:

• May produce noticeable wind noise at higher speeds
• Limited shell sizes may affect fit for some head shapes
• Not ideal for riders requiring advanced features like Bluetooth integration

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Improved Visor Seal: Borrowed from the Best

The visor seal is a huge upgrade. It’s now a soft, hollow rubber seal similar to what you find on the AGV K6. This makes a massive difference when you’re dealing with rain, wind, or long miles on the road.

A great seal cuts down on:

• Wind noise
• Water leaks
• Unwanted drafts

Soft, flexible, and designed to compress slightly when closed, this seal enhances comfort without needing to force the visor shut.

Thermoplastic Shell Meets ECE 22.06

The K3 is made of high-resistance thermoplastic. While not as featherlight as carbon fiber, it’s still impact-absorbent and passes all the latest ECE 22.06 safety standards—including rotational impact tests. That’s big news for crash protection.

For a broader perspective on top-rated helmets that balance safety and affordability, this comprehensive roundup offers valuable insights.

Smart Sizing: Three Shell Sizes

The K3 comes in three outer shell sizes. That means less compromise:

• No oversized shells packed with unnecessary padding
• Better balance between protection and comfort

Ventilation: Designed for the Ride

Chin Vent: Smarter Design

AGV has moved the chin vent switch outside the helmet, instead of inside like on the older model. Why does that matter? If your gloves are wet, the last thing you want is to stick them inside the helmet.

Heads up: ‘Up’ is open, ‘down’ is closed. Took a second to get used to.

Top Vents: Easy to Operate

Two redesigned top vents now slide open with a satisfying click. Whether you’re in gloves or not, it’s intuitive.

Max Vision Visor with Pinlock Included

A Pinlock insert comes standard in the box, and the visor accommodates it beautifully. These inserts are a godsend in wet or cold conditions, completely eliminating fog.

• Recessed mounting pins = easy setup
• Better field of view
• 190° horizontal vision for increased situational awareness

Upgraded Internal Sun Visor

The K3’s drop-down sun visor has had a major upgrade. Now cable-operated from both sides and controlled by a switch at the helmet base, it offers:

• Smoother deployment
• Dual stop points for custom positioning
• Easier reach with gloved hands

Glasses Wearers, Rejoice

AGV’s eyewear-fit cheek pads are soft where your glasses sit, preventing pressure on your temples. The cool part? They stay sealed if you’re not wearing glasses, keeping bugs and debris out.

Ear Comfort + Comms-Ready

There’s a surprising amount of air room around the ears. That might not sound like a headline feature, but for long-distance riders, it’s a game changer. It helps with:

• Reducing pressure and heat buildup
• Installing speakers for comm systems without discomfort

Customizable Fit: Swap the Cheek Pads

You can swap out the cheek pads for different thicknesses:

• 30mm for looser fit
• 35mm standard
• 40mm for tighter fit

These interchangeable pads help dial in a personalized fit without needing to size up or down entirely.

AGV K3 Cheek Pads

AGV K3 Cheek Pads are designed to provide a customizable and comfortable fit for AGV K3 helmets. These pads are interchangeable across all helmet sizes, allowing riders to fine-tune their helmet's fit.

Pros:

• Interchangeable across sizes
• Washable and easy to clean
• Improves helmet comfort

Cons:

• Only fits AGV K3 helmets
• May require size trial and error
• Some sizes may be hard to find

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Better Sizing System

Gone is AGV’s old “MS/ML” sizing. Now it’s straightforward: XS through XL, like most other brands. That means less guesswork when shopping and better consistency across product lines.

Touring-Ready Comfort

You’ve got all the comfort features touring riders want:

• Premium ventilation (even held up in freezing conditions)
• Comms-ready speaker pockets
• Lightweight enough to keep neck fatigue at bay
• Built-in sun visor for changing light

For even more options built with long-distance comfort in mind, this list of rider favorites breaks down helmets that prioritize all-day wearability.

Price + Variants

The AGV K3 is priced depending on style:

• Solid color: £209.99
• Graphics: £249.99
• Rossi replicas: £269.99

That’s a competitive price, especially for an ECE 22.06-certified helmet with a Pinlock included.

If you’re exploring more options at a similar price point, check out this roundup of other feature-packed budget helmets.

AGV K3

The AGV K3 is a full-face helmet that delivers AGV safety and comfort at an affordable price.

Pros:

• Lightweight HIR-TH shell for comfort and durability
• Integrated drop-down sun visor for convenience
• Excellent ventilation system with multiple air intakes and exhausts

Cons:

• May produce noticeable wind noise at higher speeds
• Limited shell sizes may affect fit for some head shapes
• Not ideal for riders requiring advanced features like Bluetooth integration

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We may earn commissions if you make a purchase. This keeps our site ad-free and never sponsored.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

After hours on the road, in everything from freezing snow to dry roads, here’s the verdict:

• Great airflow
• Fog-free visibility
• Light and comfy
• Full of premium features at a mid-range price

It’s not a race helmet. It’s better. It’s built for touring riders who want comfort, practicality, and protection without dropping race-level cash.

The post AGV K3 Helmet Test Ride: Touring Comfort & Safety first appeared on It's Better On The Road.

I wanted to talk about the pros and cons of having this helmet, the C5, now for five months.

When choosing a modular helmet, there are so many factors to consider. Comfort, features, safety ratings, and of course, personal fit. After spending five months with the Schuberth C5, I’ve developed some strong opinions on its performance, particularly in day-to-day riding and addressing a common complaint. Based on my experience, here are three key, perhaps unconventional, takeaways about this helmet:

1. Its venting system is truly exceptional, providing a level of airflow I didn’t know I was missing.
2. While it has a known issue with the visor dropping, there’s a simple, inexpensive fix that completely resolves it.
3. The comfort of the chin strap can vary dramatically depending on whether you’re riding or sitting as a passenger.

Let’s dive deeper into why I chose the C5 and how it’s performed over the past five months, as well as how to fix that visor drop issue.

This article is based on the video below:

Why the Schuberth C5?

As I mentioned, five months ago, the decision came down primarily between the Schuberth C5 and the Shoei Neotec 2. Both are highly regarded modular helmets, offering premium features and quality construction. The comparison felt very close on many fronts. However, there was one specific point that tipped the scales for me: the chin strap.

When trying on both helmets, I found that the chin strap on the Shoei Neotec 2 really pressed on my Adam’s apple. It was extremely uncomfortable during the fitting process. With the Schuberth C5, I had no problem with that discomfort when I was trying it on and mimicking a riding posture. This difference in comfort was the deciding factor for me right there in the store.

While subjective, a helmet’s fit and feel, especially around the chin strap, are critical for long-term comfort on rides, and the C5 felt right for my riding position.

Schuberth C5 Helmet

The quietest touring helmet money can buy, kitted out with all the features you expect for those long days in the saddle.

Pros:

• Modular flip up chin bar
• Drop down sun visor
• Space for integrated comms unit
• Many colorway options
• DOT certified, with ECE in EU

Check Price on Revzilla SC2 Custom Sena System

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The Pros of the C5 After Five Months

After five months of using the Schuberth C5, several aspects have really stood out positively. These are the features and characteristics that have made riding more comfortable and enjoyable for me.

Phenomenal Vents

The venting on this helmet is truly phenomenal. There’s a main vent located on the top of the helmet. I honestly don’t know how I lived before I had this vent. When I open that vent up, you can just feel all the cool air rushing down on your head. It’s incredibly effective at providing ventilation and keeping my head cool, which is so important, especially on warmer days or during slow-moving traffic.

There’s also a vent located just below the visor. This lower vent is super excellent for clearing your visor when it gets foggy. A foggy visor is a significant safety hazard, and the ability to quickly and effectively clear it with the airflow from this vent is a huge plus. The performance of both these vents has genuinely impressed me over the past five months.

Quieter Than Expected

I also think that this helmet is a little quieter than the Shoei Neotec 2. Noise levels in a helmet can vary greatly depending on the rider’s bike, windscreen, and riding position, among other factors. I had heard from some people that they feel vibration and buffeting with the C5 at higher speeds. However, based on my experience across different bikes, I actually feel like this helmet has less buffeting and vibration compared to the Shoei Neotec 2, which is the other helmet I extensively considered.

This contributes to a more stable feel at speed and helps reduce fatigue on longer rides. It’s worth remembering that helmet performance regarding noise and buffeting is highly dependent on your setup, so trying a helmet on your specific bike is always the best approach if possible.

Easy Modular Button Access

The button to open the modular front of the helmet is located on the chin bar, right in the center. It opens easily and smoothly. This is crucial for a modular helmet, as you want quick and hassle-free access to lift the chin bar when needed, whether you’re stopped at a light, getting fuel, or chatting with someone.

Superior Sun Visor Placement

I still think that the access to the tinted sun visor on the C5 is a way better placement than on the Shoei Neotec 2. The slider for the internal sun visor is located on the lower edge of the helmet shell, near the left cheek pad. It’s super easy to access with my left hand while riding.

This is a significant convenience, allowing me to quickly deploy or retract the sun visor as light conditions change, such as riding in and out of shade or tunnels. I’m currently not pulling the sun visor down because I’m wearing my Flying Eyes sunglasses, which I also love, but that’s a topic for another time.

Chin Strap Comfort (While Riding)

As mentioned earlier, the chin strap comfort was the primary reason I chose this helmet over the Shoei Neotec 2. When I am riding, I have no problem with the chin strap pressing on my Adam’s apple. It sits comfortably and securely without creating pressure points that would become irritating over time. The ratchet mechanism on this chin strap is also super smooth and easy to operate, both when fastening and loosening the strap.

These pros highlight the aspects of the Schuberth C5 that have genuinely impressed me during my five months of ownership and riding. The comfort features, ease of use, and effective ventilation contribute significantly to a positive riding experience.

The Cons of the C5

While the Schuberth C5 has many positives, there are a couple of points that I’ve found less ideal over the past five months.

Chin Strap Discomfort (As a Passenger)

The reason I chose this helmet was specifically because the chin strap didn’t press on my Adam’s apple when riding. However, I did have to ride as a passenger with my husband one time. I guess because my posture is not as good when I’m a passenger compared to when I’m the one riding, the chin strap was pressing so heavily on my Adam’s apple that it was almost completely unbearable to wear for the duration of that ride. This was a surprising and significant discomfort. So, something to keep in mind if you ever anticipate wearing this helmet as a passenger – definitely try it on and see if that’s a problem for you in that posture.

Chin Strap Pull Tag

While the ratchet mechanism itself is smooth on the C5, I do think that the Shoei Neotec 2’s pull tag on the chin strap is better. The C5 has a very small red tag that you use to release the ratchet. While I am able to take it off with no difficulty, I do think that it would be a lot easier and quicker to grab in general if the pull tag was a little longer or more substantial. It’s a minor point, but something I noticed in comparison.

Addressing the Elephant in the Room: The Visor Problem

Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room – the thing that everybody complained about after I posted my initial comparison video, and which I actually was not even aware of at the time I bought this helmet. This is the fact that the main face shield, the clear visor, comes down on its own at certain speeds.

Yes, that is a problem. It wasn’t an issue when I first started riding and perhaps wasn’t going as fast, but fairly quickly, it became an issue. The speed at which the visor comes down seems to depend significantly on the bike you’re riding and its aerodynamics, particularly the windscreen.

For instance, on this RT (BMW R1200RT) that I’m riding today, the visor consistently came down at 52 miles per hour. My husband’s GS (BMW GS model) is different; he only had issues over 65 miles per hour with the visor dropping.

When I was riding a Honda NC750 in Israel, I rarely had any problems at all; I think it happened only once or twice, specifically when I got over 70 miles per hour. So, the specific speed is variable, but the problem of the visor dropping from its open position due to wind or buffeting is a real characteristic of this helmet for many riders and on many bikes. It can be frustrating when you want to ride with the visor slightly or fully open for ventilation at speed.

The “$1.70 Fix”

Here’s the best news for all you viewers: I have found a fix for the visor dropping problem! The solution is incredibly simple and will cost you about $1.70 to fix. Since implementing this fix, I have had no issues with the visor coming down on its own anymore. To fix the visor drop, you need these rubber O-rings. The size that worked for me is 20 by 2 millimeters.

I actually purchased a whole pack with various sizes because I was trying to figure out what was the best one, experimenting to find the right fit and thickness. But I did look on eBay and found these specific sized O-rings for $1.70, including shipping, so it’s a super cheap fix. You really only need two of them, one for each side of the visor mechanism.

The process to install these O-rings is straightforward and only takes a couple of minutes. First, you need to remove the visor from the helmet. To do this, you push these little tabs up on either side of the helmet, located near the visor pivot point. Once those tabs are pushed up, when you tip the visor back, it just comes right off the helmet mechanism. Set the helmet aside safely.

Now, take the visor itself. There is a raised lip or edge on the part of the visor that attaches to the helmet mechanism. You’re going to take one of your 20×2 millimeter O-rings and simply slip it right around this raised lip on the visor. Work it into the groove so it sits securely around the circumference of that lip. You do this for both sides of the visor.

Once the O-rings are in place on both sides of the visor’s attachment points, the visor is ready to go back on the helmet. Align the visor mechanism with the corresponding slots on the helmet shell. You’ll need to ensure the tabs you lifted earlier are still up. Then, simply push the visor back into place until it clicks securely. Wiggle it slightly to make sure it’s seated properly on both sides. Then, push the tabs back down to lock the visor into place.

And that’s it! Super easy. This simple addition of a small rubber O-ring on each side of the visor pivot point adds just enough friction to the mechanism to prevent the visor from being easily pushed down by wind pressure alone.

Results and Caveats of the Fix

After applying this fix, you’ll immediately notice a difference in the visor’s movement. One thing that you’ll notice is that it has a little clicking sound when you open or close the visor, moving it between its detent positions. However, I have ridden multiple times with this in place, and this clicking sound is not distracting while riding.

It’s a small audible cue, but it doesn’t interfere with riding or communication. The visor is still very easy to move when you intentionally want to adjust it. You will also hear that clicking sound when you pull the modular front of the helmet down or raise it, as the main visor moves slightly during that process.

The nice thing about this fix is not only that it prevents the visor from coming down accidentally in the wind, but it also makes the visor’s detents, or notched positions, feel even more secure. This means you have a lot more variability and confidence in leaving your visor open at various levels, whether it’s just cracked slightly for airflow or open halfway. Each notch feels more positive and holds its position firmly, which is a great bonus improvement derived from this simple fix.

Full disclosure, I just recently did this fix. As of the time of this video, I have only been using the O-rings for a short period. Therefore, I do not know how long this will last. I don’t know if these rubber O-rings are going to deteriorate over time due to exposure to UV light, temperature changes, or wear and tear from moving the visor.

I also don’t know if the slight clicking sound or the feel will eventually bug me later on. However, for now, the fix has completely resolved the primary issue of the visor dropping unexpectedly, and that has significantly improved my riding experience with the helmet.

If any of you have done this fix before, perhaps with the C4 or C5, please let me know how long it lasted for you and your long-term experience. Also, if any of you do this, please leave a comment to let me know how it works out for you!

Overall, my five months with the Schuberth C5 have been largely positive. It’s a comfortable helmet with excellent ventilation and features that suit my riding style. While the dropping visor was a frustrating problem, the simple O-ring fix has completely alleviated it for now, making it a much more enjoyable helmet to use day-to-day. The main remaining potential issue for me is the chin strap comfort if I ever need to ride as a passenger again. But for riding myself, which is what I primarily use it for, it’s proven to be a great choice.

Schuberth C5 Helmet

The quietest touring helmet money can buy, kitted out with all the features you expect for those long days in the saddle.

Pros:

• Modular flip up chin bar
• Drop down sun visor
• Space for integrated comms unit
• Many colorway options
• DOT certified, with ECE in EU

Check Price on Revzilla SC2 Custom Sena System

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The post Schuberth C5 Five-Month Review & Easy Fix for Visor Drop first appeared on It's Better On The Road.

The Nexx X.WED3 adventure helmet has completely changed my expectations. Forget what you think you know about adventure helmets because this one is different. Here are three key things that stood out to me immediately, and why this helmet is quickly becoming my daily rider for both on and off-road adventures:

1. Peak Performance Without the Peak Problems: Adventure helmet peaks are notorious for catching wind, especially at highway speeds, turning your head into a sail. The X.Wed3’s peak? It’s like it’s not even there. Seriously. No head-wobbling, no neck strain, just smooth, stable riding, even at speed.
2. Comfort That Defies Category: Adventure helmets aren’t usually known for plush, all-day comfort. They often prioritize off-road features over long-haul touring comfort. The X.Wed3 breaks this mold. It’s incredibly comfortable, snug without pressure points, and surprisingly quiet for an adventure helmet, making it a joy to wear for hours on end.
3. Smart Features That Actually Make a Difference: From the emergency quick-release cheek pads to integrated action camera mounts and a truly usable drop-down sun visor, the X.Wed3 is packed with thoughtful features that enhance the riding experience, not just add to the spec sheet.

I recently put the Nexx X.WED3 through its paces on a three-day trip, clocking around eight hours of ride time. And let me tell you, this helmet impressed me. It’s sturdy, comfortable, and packed with features that make it a true standout in the adventure helmet category. Let’s dive into the details of why I’m so enthusiastic about this lid.

Nexx X.WED3 Helmet

A premium helmet at midrange price: advanced composite or full carbon fiber shell, flexible ventilation system, integrated comms, and versatile street + off-road design that doesn't require tools to switch. Long term review here.

Pros:

• Big eyeport
• Lightweight
• Anti-vibration system

Cons:

• So popular it's often out of stock

Check Price on Revzilla

We may earn commissions if you make a purchase. This keeps our site ad-free and never sponsored.

If you’d rather watch this review, here’s my original video on the topic:

Built to Last, Designed for Comfort

From the moment you pick up the Nexx X.WED3, you can feel the quality. The construction is top-notch, and it meets both DOT and ECE certifications, giving you confidence in its protective capabilities. But it’s not just about safety; it’s also about comfort.

The fit is snug, as you’d want in a helmet designed for both on and off-road riding, but there are no pressure points. It just feels right on my head. Inside, you’ll find a dual-layer EPS foam liner, which is pretty standard in high-end helmets these days. However, Nexx has taken it a step further by separating these layers with rubber dampeners. This might sound like a small detail, but it makes a noticeable difference in reducing vibrations, especially at higher speeds.

Compared to my usual street helmet, a Shoei RF-SR, which I can feel shaking on the highway, the X.Wed3 feels remarkably stable. It’s not as quiet as a dedicated street helmet, but the vibration damping really helps reduce fatigue and keeps things comfortable even on long rides.

The Peak That Defies Expectations

Adventure helmet peaks. They are often the bane of highway riding. In the past, I’ve ridden in adventure helmets where the peak acts like a sail, catching the wind and whipping your head around, especially at higher speeds. It can be tiring and frankly, annoying. So, I was naturally a bit apprehensive about the peak on the X.Wed3.

But, to my surprise, this peak is different. During my rides, it felt like I wasn’t even wearing a peak at all. It doesn’t pull in the wind or create any noticeable drag. Looking closely, you can see the clever design features that contribute to this stability. There are rubber bumpers at the three connection points between the peak and the helmet. These bumpers effectively insulate you from vibrations, further enhancing the smooth and stable feel. It’s a testament to Nexx’s attention to detail and their commitment to making this helmet truly versatile for both on and off-road riding.

Emergency Quick-Release Cheek Pads: Safety and (Surprisingly) Convenience

Let’s talk about the cheek pads. Nexx has implemented an emergency quick-release system for the X.Wed3. By pulling two red tabs at the front of the helmet, and then pulling back, the entire internal padding system comes out as one piece.

Initially, I thought this was going to be a pain. Traditional helmets with individually popped-in pads are usually easier for quick removal and re-insertion. My first thought was that this system, while great for emergency situations, would be cumbersome for everyday use, like removing the pads for cleaning.

However, after using it a few times, I’ve actually come to appreciate this system. It’s different, yes, but not necessarily more difficult. There are three main connection points to pop back in, similar to traditional systems. And the added safety benefit of being able to quickly and easily remove the entire padding system in an emergency is undeniable. In a crash situation, first responders can easily locate and pull the red tabs, quickly removing the pads to safely take off the helmet without causing further injury. So, what initially seemed like a potential usability issue has turned into a feature I genuinely like, blending safety with a unique, if slightly unconventional, design.

Featherlight Feel: A Blessing on Long Rides

Weight is a critical factor, especially for adventure helmets that are often worn for long days, both on and off the road. The Nexx X.WED3 is impressively light, tipping the scales at just 3.7 pounds. To put that into perspective, it’s lighter than the Arai XD5, which is a significantly more expensive helmet.

What’s even more surprising is how light the X.Wed3 feels. It feels lighter to me than my Shoei RF-SR, which is supposed to be around the same weight on paper. I haven’t put them on a scale side-by-side to verify, but subjectively, the Nexx feels incredibly light and well-balanced.

This lightweight design is a huge benefit, especially when touring and riding off-road. When you’re standing on the pegs, navigating challenging terrain, or just putting in long hours on the highway, a lighter helmet makes a world of difference. It reduces strain on your neck and shoulders, minimizing fatigue and allowing you to stay fresher for longer. For a helmet in this price range, the lightweight feel is a significant bonus. Riding is tiring enough as it is, especially off-road, and a heavy helmet just adds to that fatigue. The X.Wed3’s lightweight construction helps keep you comfortable and focused, mile after mile.

If weight is a key factor for you, you might also want to check out our roundup of the lightest full-face helmets for more lightweight options across categories.

Classic Adventure Styling with a Gigantic Visor

Style is subjective, but in my opinion, the Nexx X.WED3 nails the classic adventure helmet aesthetic. It looks the part, with clean lines and a purposeful design. But beyond aesthetics, there’s a functional aspect that I absolutely love: the massive visor.

The visor on this helmet is HUGE. This is a major reason why I’m considering switching from my Shoei RF-SR to the X.Wed3 for on-road riding. One of the things I appreciate about my RF-SR is its large visor, but the X.Wed3 takes it to another level. The peripheral vision is incredible; you can see everything.

Despite its size, the visor is easy to operate. It pops open and closes smoothly and locks down securely. It takes a bit of force to initially pop it open—you need to flex it from the corner—but once it’s open, it stays put. I actually find myself riding with the visor slightly open quite often, especially in hot weather, for increased airflow.

Integrated Sun Visor: Finally, One I Actually Like

Speaking of hot weather, the Nexx X.WED3 comes with an integrated drop-down sun visor, actuated by a lever on the top of the helmet. Now, I’m generally not a fan of sun visors in helmets. In many helmets, they feel like an afterthought, poorly designed and executed. However, the sun visor on the X.Wed3 is a pleasant surprise.

It’s incredibly easy to move up and down. The top-mounted control lever is perfectly positioned and intuitive to use, even with gloves on. Many helmets have sun visor controls that are either too finicky or located in awkward positions, often down at the bottom edge of the helmet. The X.Wed3’s control is perfectly placed and requires just the right amount of effort to actuate. It took me a short while to get completely accustomed to its location while riding, but now it’s second nature.

What I particularly appreciate about the sun visor itself is its tint. It’s not too dark, which means I can actually use it even on cloudy days. I can ride with the main visor up and the sun visor down, providing just the right amount of shade without making things too dark. Operation is smooth and easy, and crucially, there’s no distortion. The sun visor comes down fully, covering my entire field of vision, and there’s no annoying lip or distortion at the bottom edge. This is a common problem with cheaper helmets—sun visors often have a distorted lower edge that makes them unusable. With the X.Wed3, I can comfortably ride with the sun visor down without any visual impairment. In hot weather, riding with the main visor open and the sun visor down provides excellent airflow and sun protection, a combination I find myself using frequently.

Ventilation That Keeps You Cool

Ventilation is paramount, especially for adventure riding, and the Nexx X.WED3 excels in this area. It boasts a comprehensive ventilation system designed to keep you cool and comfortable in a variety of conditions.

The chin vent is massive, providing a substantial amount of airflow. It’s easily adjustable and effectively directs air upwards across the visor, helping to prevent fogging and keep your face cool. If fogging is something you frequently battle, you might also find our motorcycle helmet fogging prevention guide useful for tips that work across various helmets.

A thoughtful detail is the inclusion of a sponge mesh behind the chin vent. This mesh acts as a filter, preventing dust and debris from entering the helmet through the vent, a crucial feature for off-road riding.

On top of the helmet, you’ll find three large, adjustable vents. These vents can be opened and closed individually, allowing you to fine-tune the airflow depending on your needs and the riding conditions. Across the brow, there are three more vents—one on each side and one in the center—further enhancing ventilation. In total, the X.Wed3 has a remarkable amount of ventilation, making it well-suited for hot weather riding and strenuous off-road adventures.

Smart Features and Thoughtful Details

Beyond the core features, the Nexx X.WED3 is packed with smart details and thoughtful integrations that enhance the overall riding experience. Nexx has clearly put a lot of thought into the design, addressing common issues and adding features that riders will genuinely appreciate.

One standout feature is the integrated communication system compatibility. The X.Wed3 has dedicated recesses designed to accommodate Nexx’s own Sena-branded communication unit. This system integrates seamlessly into the helmet, with pre-routed channels for wires and perfectly positioned speaker pockets. This eliminates the hassle of trying to awkwardly mount a comms unit and ensures a clean, streamlined setup.

Another clever feature is the inclusion of integrated mounts for action cameras. The helmet comes with mounts specifically designed for GoPro and other action cameras, strategically placed on the helmet shell. This is a huge convenience, as finding a good mounting location on adventure helmets, with their often-curved surfaces, can be challenging. Nexx has these mounts, eliminating the need for sticky adhesive mounts and providing secure and convenient attachment points.

And let’s not forget the Pinlock visor insert, which comes standard with the X.Wed3. I’ve been riding in heavy rain with this helmet, and the Pinlock insert has performed flawlessly, providing crystal-clear, fog-free vision. It’s a huge relief not to have to worry about fogging, especially in adverse weather conditions. The Pinlock insert is edge-to-edge, maximizing the fog-free area and ensuring a clear field of view.

Nexx has also done a great job sealing the visor, with a nice rubber bead all the way around, further enhancing weather sealing and ensuring the Pinlock insert works effectively. The result is excellent visibility, even in really bad weather, adding to the helmet’s versatility and all-weather capability.

Minor Gripes, Major Performance

No helmet is perfect, and while the Nexx X.WED3 comes incredibly close, there are a couple of minor gripes I have. These are small things, but worth mentioning for a complete picture.

First, the D-ring strap. I personally prefer D-ring closures for their safety and ease of use. They are simple, reliable, and allow for easy adjustment, even with gloves on. However, the strap on the X.Wed3 is quite thin. Because of its thinness, it has a tendency to fold over on itself and get snagged in the D-rings. I’m not sure why Nexx opted for such a thin strap. While it might make it slightly easier to pull and loosen, the snagging issue is a bit annoying. It’s a minor inconvenience, but something to be aware of.

Another minor gripe is the chin curtain. It’s designed to snap into the helmet liner at the front and on both sides. However, on my helmet, it seems to come loose at the edges. It hasn’t actually come out during my rides, which is good, but I’m a bit paranoid about potentially losing it. The chin curtain itself is very thick, which is a positive. It effectively seals out noise, wind, and water from below. I just wish it felt a bit more securely attached. It’s possible this is just a minor manufacturing variance in my particular helmet, but it’s worth noting.

As mentioned earlier, the cheek pad removal system initially felt a bit unconventional. But after getting used to it, I actually prefer it to traditional snap-in systems for its safety benefits.

Finally, noise levels. The X.Wed3 is an adventure helmet, so it’s inherently going to be louder than a dedicated street helmet. Compared to my Shoei RF-SR, which is a very quiet helmet, the Nexx is noticeably louder. However, this is to be expected with adventure helmets, which prioritize ventilation and off-road features over maximum noise isolation. Wearing earplugs or earbuds effectively reduces the noise to a comfortable level. Interestingly, I’ve noticed that closing the main visor completely does significantly reduce wind noise. Given the excellent ventilation, you don’t always need to ride with the visor open for airflow, even in warm conditions. On super hot and humid days, I’ve ridden around town with the main visor open and the sun visor down for maximum airflow, but for touring and higher speeds, closing the main visor provides a quieter and more comfortable experience.

Final Verdict: An Amazing Adventure Lid

Overall, the Nexx X.WED3 is an outstanding adventure helmet. I genuinely love this helmet. As I said at the beginning, it’s likely to become my regular helmet for both street and off-road riding. It strikes an excellent balance of features, comfort, safety, and style, all in a lightweight and versatile package. The minor gripes are just that—minor—and are easily outweighed by the helmet’s numerous strengths.

If you’re looking for a high-quality adventure helmet that can truly do it all, I highly recommend checking out the Nexx X.WED3. For more in-depth information and technical specifications, RevZilla has an excellent video review and detailed product description. They delve into the finer points of the helmet’s construction and technology. I just wanted to share my initial impressions after putting some miles on this impressive piece of gear. It’s a helmet that has genuinely exceeded my expectations and is setting a new standard for what an adventure helmet can be.

Nexx X.WED3 Helmet

A premium helmet at midrange price: advanced composite or full carbon fiber shell, flexible ventilation system, integrated comms, and versatile street + off-road design that doesn't require tools to switch. Long term review here.

Pros:

• Big eyeport
• Lightweight
• Anti-vibration system

Cons:

• So popular it's often out of stock

Check Price on Revzilla

We may earn commissions if you make a purchase. This keeps our site ad-free and never sponsored.

The post Nexx X.WED3 Adventure Helmet Review: Redefining the Category first appeared on It's Better On The Road.

Forget the gimmicky “smart” helmets. We’ve tested them. They sucked. These are the ones that passed the real-world test—on-road, off-road, and through group rides that didn’t end with everyone yelling “Can you hear me now?”

Here’s what we’ll cover: the best Bluetooth helmets by category, solid budget picks (and one to avoid), and whether integrated tech is really worth the price.

Let’s kick this off.

Quick Picks: Best-in-Class Bluetooth Helmets

First off, let me share my top picks. Look, we didn’t mean to make this a Sena fan club meeting. It just happened.

Sena is the only manufacturer consistently nailing the full package: clean helmet designs, solid safety ratings, and built-in comms that actually work. No bolt-on barnacles, no tangled wires, and MUCH more battery life than standalone units. Here are several of their top Bluetooth helmets with built in communicators.

Full Face	Modular	Half face
Sena Phantom	Sena Impulse	Sena Cavalry 2
Bluetooth 5.3 and Mesh 3.0 technology Built-in active noise cancelling and premium Harman Kardon audio	Mesh & Bluetooth integrated communication Simple button controls on the left side 18+ hours of battery life (better than any other Bluetooth headset)	Premium fiberglass shell with aerodynamic design Built-in speakers and hidden mic DOT approved, Bluetooth ready
Check Price on Revzilla	Check Price on Motosport	Check Price on Revzilla
Check Price on Amazon	Check Price on Amazon	Check Price on Amazon

Full Face

Sena Phantom

• Bluetooth 5.3 and Mesh 3.0 technology
• Built-in active noise cancelling and premium Harman Kardon audio

Check Price on Revzilla

Check Price on Amazon

Modular

Sena Impulse

• Mesh & Bluetooth integrated communication
• Simple button controls on the left side
• 18+ hours of battery life (better than any other Bluetooth headset)

Check Price on Motosport

Check Price on Amazon

Half face

Sena Cavalry 2

• Premium fiberglass shell with aerodynamic design
• Built-in speakers and hidden mic
• DOT approved, Bluetooth ready

Check Price on Revzilla

Check Price on Amazon

Sena basically said, “Why not build the Bluetooth into the damn helmet?”—then did it better than anyone else. Mesh tech for big group rides? Check. Harman Kardon audio that doesn’t sound like a tin can? Yup. Battery life that lasts longer than your bladder on a Sunday ride? You bet.

We’ve seen the other guys. Sena just makes it easy. That’s why you’ll keep seeing them at the top of every section below.

The Best Bluetooth Motorcycle Helmets

Usually the It’s Better On The Road team likes to kick back and have a few brews on a Friday night, but we decided instead to create a rating system for all the Bluetooth helmets we’ve ever worn. We called up some friends too, to get other opinions.

The result is what you see here – the top Bluetooth helmets rated on their tech and build quality. Unsurprisingly, Sena has absolutely crushed it, winning both the full face and modular categories.

The bluetooth headset and integrated helmet is a fantastic piece of technology, but like many other tech products out there, it’s hard to tell which ones are overpriced, under-featured, or downright frustrating.

That’s why we put together…

• Our opinions
• Our friends’ opinions
• The internet’s opinions (forums)
• Reviewers’ opinions (Revzilla and Amazon)
• My lovely grandmother’s opinion (just kidding)

… to pick out the best Bluetooth motorcycle helmets.

Best Bluetooth Motorcycle Helmet: Sena Phantom

The Sena Phantom is the most advanced Bluetooth helmet for 2025. Full-face, fully integrated, and packed with top-tier comms, audio, and safety. It’s built to lead.

Sena Phantom

Stay connected, ride safer, and enjoy premium sound with the Sena Phantom Smart Mesh Bluetooth Helmet.

Pros:

• Bluetooth 5.3 and Mesh 3.0 technology for seamless group communication
• Built-in active noise cancelling and premium Harman Kardon audio

Cons:

• Pinlock insert for fog resistance sold separately
• Can't upgrade the communicator

Check Price on Revzilla Check Price on Amazon

We may earn commissions if you make a purchase. This keeps our site ad-free and never sponsored.

Unlike traditional helmets that require aftermarket communication systems, the Phantom combines all features (communication, audio, and safety) into a cohesive, streamlined design.

Highlights of the Sena Phantom

What’s cool about the Phantom is how stealth the setup is. The buttons are flush on the shell, the antennas are built into the liner, and the speakers sit in deep acoustic pockets for better sound and less buzzing at speed. It’s got that full Sena Mesh 2.0 system and Bluetooth 5.0 baked in, so you can ride solo or link up with your whole group.

It’s not just tech, though. The helmet itself is a serious contender—composite fiberglass shell, DOT and ECE 22.06 certified, and built-in LED lighting front and rear. The internal space allows for a bigger battery, which means more talk time without bulking up. And the sound quality? Way better than most helmets we’ve tested with aftermarket units.

If you want a full-face helmet that does everything right out of the box and still looks like a proper rider’s lid, this is it.

Sena Phantom Specs

Tech

• Mesh Intercom™ 3.0 and Wave Intercom™ for seamless group communication over long distances.
• Second-generation Harman Kardon speakers for premium sound quality.
• AI-based Noise Reduction (AINR) technology.
• Up to 35 hours of talk time.
• Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity.
• Integrated LED lighting, over-the-air updates via the Sena Motorcycles App.Sena

Helmet

• Full-face style.
• Composite fiberglass shell.
• DOT and ECE 22.06 certified.
• Approximately 1690 ± 50 g (M size).
• Available in Glossy Black and Glossy White.

Feature-Packed Bluetooth Helmet: Sena Stryker

Sounds like a vehicle in Star Wars… and packs about that much punch.

Runner-up, but not by much: The Sena Stryker is basically the overachiever of Bluetooth helmets in 2025. Doesn’t matter if you ride a bagger or a naked, this thing crushes it across the board. Form, function, full send.

Sena Stryker Mesh Intercom Helmet

Top of the line Sena intercom, sound by Harman Kardon, sun visor, even a tail light... what's not to love?

Pros:

• Mesh & Bluetooth built-in
• Harman Kardon speakers and mic
• Drop-down sun visor
• LED tail light
• 18 hour battery life

Cons:

• Can't upgrade the communicator

Check Price on Revzilla Check Price on Amazon

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Sena built on the old Sena Momentum EVO to make this helmet. But the EVO is a bicycle compared to the Stryker’s V-Twin. The Stryker runs laps around the EVO, from its intercom supporting unlimited participants in an Open Mesh to its whopping seven vents. It also has a drop down sun visor, which is uncommon in lids of this quality.

The Stryker is DOT and ECE certified, making it legal everywhere and safer than most helmets.

Sena even put an LED taillight in this lid, improving your visibility. Even with that, it still provides EIGHTEEN hours of talk time on Bluetooth.

The 40mm speakers and microphone built in to the Stryker? Made by Harman Kardon, meaning studio-quality sound. As good as any standalone Bluetooth headset.

This might be the best value helmet money can buy these days. You’d need to spend much more to get anywhere close to what the Stryker offers.

Highlights of the Sena Stryker

On the Stryker, you’ll find everything you would expect from a high-tech motorcycle helmet: top-notch Bluetooth 5.0 technology that connects to your phone for music, calls, and GPS; intercom for 4 people on bluetooth and 24 on Mesh; and a stellar 18 hours of talk time on bluetooth with 11 hours on Mesh. Those specs are even better than the Sena 50S top-line bluetooth headset.

Sound quality also doesn’t disappoint, thanks to great sealing around the neck and the amazing Harman Kardon speakers and microphone. Best of all, the designers of this lid packed all of these features into a 3.85 pound shell (medium), one of the lightest we’ve reviewed in this category. 

Mesh technology is one of the standout features of this motorcycle helmet. Mesh beats Bluetooth connectivity in range, number of participants, and pairing process. Open Mesh means virtually limitless riders communicating across up to 9 channels, like good old CB radio.

Going out of range doesn’t require a stop to re-pair. Mesh automatically heals the connection, unlike Bluetooth.

I’m a big fan of a good deal, and that’s where the Stryker really shines.

To get a similar tech experience with another helmet, you’d need to purchase a Mesh 2.0 enabled headsets. The cost of a decent helmet plus the cheapest Mesh-enabled headset – the Sena 30K – will run you more than the cost of the Stryker.

For less battery. And a chunky rock on the side of your helmet.

Sena Stryker Specs

Tech

• More Intercom Space than Friends: 4-way Bluetooth Intercom, 24+ on Mesh – universal pairing to other brands
• Stellar Range: 1.2 mile / 2 km Intercom Range (Have 6+ people? Extends to 5 miles / 8 km)
• Best Battery Life: 18 hours on Bluetooth, 11 hour on Mesh with 1,300 mAh battery that charges in 2.5 hours
• Voice Commands: Control GPS, make calls, command music – anything you can do with Siri or Hey Google – with just your voice.
• Smart Sound: Harman Kardon 40mm speakers with Advanced Noise Control for better sound quality and dynamic volume.
• FM Radio: For you old-school folks. No hate, only love.

Helmet

• Full-face style
• Integrated Drop down sun visor
• Better visibility: Integrated tail light
• High impact absorption from composite fiberglass shell with multi-density EPS
• Lightweight: 3.85 pounds – incredible for a full-face helmet
• DOT and ECE safety certified

Best Modular Bluetooth Helmet: Sena Impulse

The Sena Impulse is basically the Stryker, with a flip up chin bar just like any other modular motorcycle helmet. That means everything is built in, including the Harman Kardon boom mic, so you can pop this baby on for a ride right out of the box. Plus, you get that awesome integrated tail light from the Stryker too. This is one of the best modular helmets money can buy.

Sena Impulse DOT Flip Up Modular Bluetooth Helmet

$599.00

A standout modular helmet with integrated Bluetooth communications, no dongle hanging off the side. Sound by Harman Kardon and 18+ hours of battery life.

Pros:

• Mesh & Bluetooth integrated communication
• Simple button controls on the left side
• 18+ hours of battery life (better than any other Bluetooth headset)
• Premium Harman Kardon speakers & microphone
• Multi-channel open mesh supporting unlimited riders

Cons:

• Can't connect over Mesh to non-Sena units

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Sound is great since you get the same Harman Kardon speakers in this lid as in the Stryker.

Build quality is solid, and you get a lot of nice features. Drop down sun visor to shade your eyes, easy chin-bar operation with a gloved hand, and simple 3-button controls on the left side of your helmet.

You also get voice controls, so you don’t even have to touch the helmet to change songs, make a call, or set up GPS directions. Anything your phone can do with voice commands, you can do in this helmet.

Highlights of the Sena Impulse

This is basically the best modular helmet I’ve ever put on my head. It does what you need a modular helmet to do – get out of the way when you want to take a drink or get some air.

But this lid comes packed with so much more: Integrated tail light, Harman Kardon sound, flip-down sun visor, nicely integrated controls, and of course Bluetooth connectivity.

And the battery life is stellar too: 18 hours of talk time. And the magnetic charger means you won’t break a cord by picking up the helmet without unplugging it.

While the price is steeper than some other modular lids like the BILT Techno 3.0 and the Sena Outrush R, you get your money’s worth with this lid.

The modular category is heating up lately, thanks to many manufacturers creating flip-up variants of their existing full face bluetooth helmets.

We previously rated the BILT Techno 3.0 as our top choice for smart modular helmet, but the Impulse knocked it off the pedestal. We also looked at the Torc T-28B, which is an improvement on the T-27B and a modular version of the popular T-14B and T-15B full face models. Finally we compared the ILM 953, but found the construction of the ILM helmet to fall short of the others.

Sena Impulse Specs

Tech

• Good for Big Groups: 4-way communication on Bluetooth, 24+ on Mesh – universal pairing to other brands
• Insanely Long Range: 1.2 mile / 2 km Intercom Range (Have 6+ people? Extends to 5 miles / 8 km)
• Big Battery with Quick Charge: 18 hours on Bluetooth, 11 hour on Mesh with 1,300 mAh battery that charges in 2.5 hours
• FM Radio to listen to classics – or traffic updates
• Voice Control: Access Siri and other phone voice commands without touching a single button, using voice prompts and Hands-Free Profile (HFP)
• Advanced Noise Control keeps music and intercom clear through wind, engine, and traffic noise.
• Auto-Updating: When you charge the Impulse, it connects to WiFi and automatically updates itself.

Helmet

• Modular style – lift up the chin bar for some air
• Better impact absorption due to composite fiberglass shell with multi-density EPS
• Drop down sun visor
• 3.79 pounds – lightweight for a modular
• DOT certified

Best Bluetooth Half Helmet: Sena Cavalry 2

Half helmets aren’t really for the safety-conscious.

They’re for the wild souls that want wind in their hair, but don’t enjoy getting pulled over and roughed up by the cops.

Sena Cavalry 2 Helmet

A sleek half-shell helmet with fully integrated Bluetooth and noise-reducing audio features.

Pros:

• Premium fiberglass shell with aerodynamic design
• Built-in speakers and hidden mic for seamless communication
• Mesh 2.0 supports group chats with up to 24 riders
• DOT approved, low profile, Bluetooth ready

Cons:

• Wind noise reduction is limited above 60 mph

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Sena understands you, and they built the Sena Cavalry 2 to be your perfect half helmet.

Highlights of the Sena Cavalry 2

The standout feature here is how clean it looks. The microphone is built into the brow, and the speakers are tucked into the liner. No awkward plastic pieces ruining your vibe. Just crisp audio, easy controls, and a fit that feels dialed.

On the road, the noise-canceling still works surprisingly well. You can take calls or chat over intercom without yelling, even at highway speeds. The internal battery keeps you talking for up to 10 hours.

It’s not trying to be fancy. It just works, and that’s exactly what a half helmet should do. Check a full review done by the team at RevZilla.

Sena Cavalry 2 Specs

Tech

• Bluetooth 5.0 built-in
• 4-way intercom with universal pairing (connects to other brands)
• 0.5 mile / 800m intercom range
• 10 hours of talk time on a single charge
• Hidden microphone (no boom mic!)

Helmet

• DOT certified
• Half-helmet (¾ coverage with open-face feel)
• Composite fiberglass shell
• Multi-density EPS liner for better impact absorption

Affordable Full-Face with Built-In Bluetooth: Sena Outforce

The Sena Outforce gives you Bluetooth 5.0 functionality in a full-face helmet—no installation, no fuss. Designed for riders who just want to hit the road with music and comms built in, the Outforce has you covered for everyday cruising.

Sena OutForce Bluetooth Helmet

$269.00

A budget full face option with integrated Sena comms.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Built-in Bluetooth
• Sun visor

Cons:

• No Mesh intercom
• Polycarbonate shell
• Basic audio

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Highlights of the Sena Outforce

This helmet skips the fancy Mesh stuff and sticks to core Bluetooth features, which is perfect for riders who mostly commute or ride solo. It’s got HD speakers and mic already installed, so you can hop on calls or stream your playlist straight out of the box. The drop-down sun visor is a nice touch too, making it a great value for the price.

It’s a polycarbonate shell—not the lightest, but still comfortable and DOT rated. The airflow’s solid, the liner is plush enough, and the control buttons are glove-friendly. Expect about 12 hours of talk time, which will get most riders through a full day.

Sena Outforce Specs

Tech

• Bluetooth 5.0 built in
• 4-way Bluetooth intercom
• HD speakers and mic (no boom)
• 12 hour talk time
• Voice prompts
• Simple 3-button control

Helmet

• Full-face style
• Polycarbonate shell with multi-density EPS
• Drop-down sun visor
• DOT certified
• Comfort liner, removable cheek pads

Runner Up Bluetooth Motorcycle Helmets

We also looked at Bluetooth motorcycle helmets from a few other brands that didn’t make the top rank, but have unique advantages to highlight.

Schuberth C5 with Antenna, Speakers, and Mic

Worth an honorable mention is the Schuberth C5 modular for touring riders, which ships with speakers, mic, and an antenna already integrated and ready for the SC2 communication system.

Schuberth C5 Helmet

The quietest touring helmet money can buy, kitted out with all the features you expect for those long days in the saddle.

Pros:

• Modular flip up chin bar
• Drop down sun visor
• Space for integrated comms unit
• Many colorway options
• DOT certified, with ECE in EU

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This is an evolution on the Schuberth C5, improving in multiple ways including noise reduction and shell weight.

With 100% fiberglass shell, multi-zone EPS, and well-designed ventilation the Schuberth C5 is right in line with the C4 Pro and other stellar helmets from Schuberth’s past.

It’s an extremely light modular weighing in at just 3.94 lbs, and that’s including speakers, mic, and antenna for the comms unit. The SC2 communication unit, which has to be bought separately and installed, is made by Sena and is in line with their 50 series. That means 1.2 miles of connection range and virtually limitless riders connected over the intercom.

Whether the antenna actually increases range we haven’t been able to test – if you’ve tried this lid, let us know what you think in the comments below.

Torc Bluetooth Motorcycle Helmets

Torc is known for their budget-friendly helmets and its retro Torc T-1. They’re one of the few helmet makers that integrates Bluetooth tech in to decent lids as a pre-packaged deal.

The two pre-integrated Bluetooth helmets from Torc are the Torc T-15B and Torc-28B. The 15 is a full face, while the 28 is a modular with chin bar you can lift up.

TORC T28B Bluetooth Integrated Motorcycle Helmet

$279.99

This helmet just won't cut it. Better off getting a standard modular helmet from a better manufacturer and putting in your own Bluetooth unit from Cardo or Sena.

Pros:

• Multi-density EPS (premium for this price point)
• Drop-down sun visor and anti-fog shield

Cons:

• Heavy shell
• Off-brand Bluetooth
• Bad sound quality

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06/07/2025 09:10 am GMT

You get what you pay for with these. The speakers and microphone are not great, and wind noise is a problem on the highway. Battery life will take you through a full day, and they’re at least DOT rated. The inclusion of a sun visor is welcomed on sunny days.

However, these helmets come on the heavier side at 5.15 lbs each. The Bluetooth tech is from Blinc, which is a knockoff of Sena and Cardo.

The Blinc bluetooth system lacks the popularity of Sena or Cardo units, and for good reason. They don’t have the same universal pairing ability you’d expect from an intercom device.

However, if every rider in your group has a Torc / Blinc headset, you can connect up to 6 riders together.

If everyone your ride with is using Blinc Bluetooth, Torc might be a good choice for you. The price is certainly right.

HJC Bluetooth Motorcycle Helmets

HJC sells a few pre-integrated Bluetooth helmets like the HJC i91 that use specially-designed Sena 10B and 20B headsets designed to fit the HJCs like a glove.

HJC i91 Modular Motorcycle Helmet

A solid, comfortable, and affordable touring helmet with its fair share of flaws. But for the price and strong necks, it's good value. Read our full review here.

Pros:

• Super comfortable liner and plush padding
• 3 shell sizes for better fit, look, and weight
• One of the best drop down sun visors in any helmet

Cons:

• Heavy on the neck
• Flimsy visor that doesn't seal well

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They aren’t quite as nice as Sena’s helmets, however. You’re getting older Sena technology with lower range and battery life. But on the bright side, you get a high-quality HJC helmet. And HJC sells pre-integrated kits for many of their helmets.

You’re better off slapping an aftermarket unit from Cardo or Sena on another helmet and doing the installation yourself, if you ask me.

Sedici Bluetooth Motorcycle Helmets

Sedici’s updated Sistema III Parlare offers a great budget option for riders who want Bluetooth built in without blowing $600 on a helmet.

Sedici Sistema 3 Parlare Smart Helmet

A lightweight modular helmet with features and build quality (like stainless steel visor components and seamless face shield gasket) of much more expensive lids. With Sena Mesh comms system pre-integrated.

Pros:

• Strong & light fiberglass composite shell
• Close fit (5 EPS sizes and 3 shell sizes)
• DOT and ECE safety ratings
• Sena Mesh system pre-integrated

Cons:

• Cannot connect to other Comms brands like Cardo

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You get a fiberglass/Kevlar composite shell, an upgraded interior, and the same solid Sena DWO-6 unit with 8 hours of talk time. The integrated speakers and mic are tuned to the helmet shell, which reviewers say helps with both clarity and comfort.

It’s DOT and ECE 22.05 certified, and the street-ready full-face design includes a drop-down sun visor, removable liner, and easy control buttons on the side. For the price, it’s a hell of a lot of helmet.

ILM 953 Bluetooth Helmet

The ILM 953 Pro is “Amazon’s top selling bluetooth helmet.”

But you shouldn’t buy it.

ILM 953

$249.99 $224.99

The ILM 953 might be Amazon’s best-selling Bluetooth helmet, but that doesn’t mean it’s the best value. Meh. It gets the job done, that's all.

Pros:

• Cheap
• Bluetooth built-in
• Modular convenience

Cons:

• Outdated Bluetooth version
• Heavy
• Mediocre audio

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06/07/2025 06:16 am GMT

That stat might have more to do with its low cost than its quality.

The ILM comes with decent Bluetooth technology from FreedConn that supports 6-8 riders speaking simultaneously, but the unit can only pair with other FreedConn units.

The lid itself is basic – DOT certified, with a built in sunshade, but otherwise not built well.

The ILM 953 is a good choice if you’re on a budget and want a simple way to communicate between a few riders or with your passenger. However, I’d sooner buy a better helmet and integrate my own basic Bluetooth unit like the Cardo Spirit.

FAQs

Should I buy a Bluetooth motorcycle helmet?

The question of whether a Bluetooth motorcycle helmet is worth it for you depends on how you ride. If you want a seamless experience for communication with your buddies, GPS directions, media and phone calls, an integrated bluetooth helmet from our list of best bluetooth motorcycle helmets might make sense for you. Save some money to spend on a custom paint job.

Read out full rundown on whether Bluetooth motorcycle helmets are worth it.

If you just want audio GPS directions or tunes, the right set of headphones or speakers could do the trick. If you want the absolute newest tech, buying a more expensive add-on system might make more sense.

An integrated bluetooth helmet is advantageous over an add-on unit for several reasons: 

• Better deal: A helmet plus bluetooth system will run you over around $300, depending on the exact models you choose. An integrated bluetooth helmet will run you around or below that anyway, without any installation hassle. 
• Bigger batteries: Integrated helmets offer more talk time by hiding batteries in the shell. 
• Better microphone and speaker placement: The placement of mics and speakers with a built in bluetooth system is determined by expert sound engineers – leading to better sound quality than self-installed systems. 
• Lower profile: An integrated helmet hides all the electronics inside – no bulky bluetooth device hanging off your helmet. 
• No installation: Save the obvious for last – no hassle installing a system onto another helmet! 

Cons of integrated bluetooth helmets:

• Less choice of bluetooth device and helmet: Buying an add-on unit means using any helmet you like, and accessing the latest tech. Helmets with a pre-installed Bluetooth headset are usually impossible to upgrade.
• Device not removable: If you ever want to remove your device from your helmet – say, to charge it without carrying the helmet or switch to another helmet – an add-on device gives you that flexibility. 

Can you listen to music with a Bluetooth motorcycle helmet?

Listening to music is one of the key functions of a bluetooth motorcycle helmet. If this is what you’re looking for, then you can rest easy because the best bluetooth motorcycle helmets for you will be on the cheaper end – like the ILM 953.  

You’ll want to look at reviews to see whether owners like how the speakers sound and whether the helmet seals well to block out wind noise. Remember that many bluetooth units come with apps to help you tune and customize the audio profile.  

How much does a Bluetooth motorcycle helmet cost?

Bluetooth helmets are surprisingly affordable, especially when compared to the alternative option of installing an add-on unit to another helmet. Here’s what to expect:

• Under $150 for Bluetooth-ready helmets: You’ll have to add your own unit, but not every helmet hides away the bulky bits. 
• $150 – $300 for Entertainment-style Bluetooth-integrated helmets: You’ll find solid helmets with a decent bluetooth system from Blinc or Freedconn. Great for rider-to-passenger or a ‘smart’ helmet with speakers and a mic.   
• $300+ for Top-Notch Bluetooth-integrated helmets: These are lightweight and well-ventilated helmets with high-quality Bluetooth systems already pre-installed. You’ll be able to communicate with a large group, listen to music, and have a high-quality helmet shell to boot. Take the Sena Stryker for example, our pick for the best bluetooth motorcycle helmet. 

Is Mesh intercom really better than Bluetooth?

Yup—especially if you ride in groups. Mesh is like the group chat that never drops. Riders can join, leave, and rejoin without anyone needing to press buttons or scream “Pair it again!” across a gas station parking lot. It self-heals, supports more riders, and has better range.

If you’re mostly riding solo or with one buddy, regular Bluetooth is fine. But if your crew rolls deep, go Mesh and thank yourself later.

Can I use voice commands with these helmets?

Most of the good ones—especially Sena’s higher-end models—let you access Siri, Google Assistant, or even control music and calls with your voice. No fumbling with buttons in thick gloves. Just say “Hey Siri, play Metallica” and let it rip. Some value helmets skip this feature, though, so check the specs.

To wrap up… integrated Bluetooth helmets make riding simpler, cleaner, and way more connected. Whether you’re jamming tunes, talking to your crew, or dodging traffic with GPS in your ear, there’s a lid here that’ll fit your ride.

The post Best Bluetooth Motorcycle Helmets for 2025 first appeared on It's Better On The Road.

Thankfully for us, many of the top brands in motorcycle safety gear – including Bell, Arai, and Shoei – feel our nostalgia too. They took classic designs and reinvented them with modern safety features from fiberglass shells to multi-density EPS. Earning a few a coveted spot on our list of coolest helmets.

As a lover of retro bikes myself, I put my heads together with my rider friends to create this list of the best retro motorcycle helmets money can buy.

Top Picks: The Best Retro/Vintage Helmets

Here are my personal favorites that combine legit safety and standout style. You’ll find them below, plus many more worth checking out. The Bell Custom 500 made the cut for its 5 shell sizes and low-profile look, the Biltwell Gringo S for its affordability and ECE rating, and the Bell Bullitt for nailing the retro racer vibe. I also had to include the Bell Moto-3—it’s functional, off-road capable, and channels pure 70s daredevil energy.

The Best	Open Face	Budget	Iconic
Bell Bullitt	Bell Custom 500	Biltwell Gringo	Bell Moto-3
The ultimate in classic style and modern protection. Huge eyeport and tons of aftermarket add-ons make it the perfect choice for retro, city-riding lid.	Bell's classic and affordable open face helmet offers versatility with a rich aftermarket for peaks and visors. Available in a variety of colorways and shells. No bobblehead look thanks to 5 shell sizes!	Similar to the Bullitt with a thicker chinbar, the Gringo's simple silhouette and affordable price match with any bike and every budget.	The Bell Moto-3 helmet combines iconic 1970s motocross styling with modern safety features, offering a retro look without compromising on protection.​
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The Best

Bell Bullitt

The ultimate in classic style and modern protection. Huge eyeport and tons of aftermarket add-ons make it the perfect choice for retro, city-riding lid.

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Open Face

Bell Custom 500

Bell's classic and affordable open face helmet offers versatility with a rich aftermarket for peaks and visors. Available in a variety of colorways and shells. No bobblehead look thanks to 5 shell sizes!

Check Price on Revzilla

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Budget

Biltwell Gringo

Similar to the Bullitt with a thicker chinbar, the Gringo's simple silhouette and affordable price match with any bike and every budget.

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Iconic

Bell Moto-3

The Bell Moto-3 helmet combines iconic 1970s motocross styling with modern safety features, offering a retro look without compromising on protection.​

Check Price on Revzilla

The retro helmet movement is here to stay, and at these prices anyone can afford to own a retro lid. Find what you like down below and shoot me an email at evan@itsbetterontheroad.com if you wear any of these!

What to Know Before Buying a Retro Helmet

Before we get into the lineup, let’s clear up some common myths and misconceptions about retro lids:

1. That “mint condition” 1970s helmet you saw on eBay? It’s WALL ART, not riding gear. Seriously. Glues, resins, and EPS foam degrade significantly over decades. It will NOT protect you like a modern, certified helmet. Don’t risk it.
2. Authentic retro looks almost always mean minimal vents and maximum wind noise. Part of the classic look often involves fewer vents and less refined aerodynamics. Expect more wind noise and less cooling than modern designs; good earplugs are usually essential.
3. Not all ‘retro’ helmets are created equal. Some prioritize looks over fit or modern safety standards. Always check for current certifications like DOT and ideally ECE 22.06.
4. Just because it looks round doesn’t mean it fits your round head. Fit is still king, even with classic shapes. Retro helmets often have very specific internal shapes.

Ready to Ride Retro?

This guide is for anyone who wants to look sharp on the road without compromising protection. Whether you’re chasing that Easy Rider feeling, going full Mad Max, or just want a lid that looks as good as your café racer build, there’s a retro helmet here for you.

Scroll down and explore the best options in with the rest down below broken in to three categories: Open Face, Full Face, and Off-Road / Scrambler.—complete with hands-on reviews and real rider insights.

The Best Vintage Open Face Helmets

Chasing that Easy Rider feel on the highway? Or leaning into the café racer look in city traffic? These open face retro lids bring the classic vibe without cutting you off from the wind.

Perfect when a half helmet‘s not enough, but you still want that open-air freedom.

Best Fit	Style Icon	Wired Rebel
Bell Custom 500	Hedon Hedonist Cosmos	Sena Surge Open Mesh Helmet
N/A	N/A	$369.00
Bell's classic and affordable open face helmet offers versatility with a rich aftermarket for peaks and visors. Available in a variety of colorways and shells. Never get the bobblehead look thanks to 5 shell sizes!	A retro open-face helmet with a cosmic twist. The "Cosmos" finish adds depth and shimmer to Hedon's signature low-profile lid, blending handcrafted style with ECE-certified safety.	Seamlessly integrated Sena Mesh and Bluetooth communication for the ultimate connected riding experience.
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Best Fit

Bell Custom 500

N/A

Bell's classic and affordable open face helmet offers versatility with a rich aftermarket for peaks and visors. Available in a variety of colorways and shells. Never get the bobblehead look thanks to 5 shell sizes!

Check Price on Revzilla

Style Icon

Hedon Hedonist Cosmos

N/A

A retro open-face helmet with a cosmic twist. The "Cosmos" finish adds depth and shimmer to Hedon's signature low-profile lid, blending handcrafted style with ECE-certified safety.

Check Price on Revzilla

Wired Rebel

Sena Surge Open Mesh Helmet

$369.00

Seamlessly integrated Sena Mesh and Bluetooth communication for the ultimate connected riding experience.

Check Price on Revzilla

Bell Custom 500 Helmet

Bell Custom 500

Bell's classic and affordable open face helmet offers versatility with a rich aftermarket for peaks and visors. Available in a variety of colorways and shells. Never get the bobblehead look thanks to 5 shell sizes!

Pros:

• Timeless retro design
• Low-profile fit (no bobblehead)
• Lightweight fiberglass shell

Cons:

• No chin or face protection
• No vents—can get hot
• Loud at speed

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Have you ever ridden with a motorcycle helmet that feels like a ball and chain on your head?

The Bell Custom 500 is the polar opposite of that. But why?

FIVE shell sizes. That means every helmet size fits perfectly. Most helmets use two or three shell sizes, so XLs get thin padding while Smalls make you a mushroom-head. Either ruining your comfort or your style. For classic helmets, you need a perfect fit no matter your head size.

You can watch this review from Revzilla:

This lid combines the safety of modern helmets with a retro look and low-profile fit. Just what we’re looking for.

The standard helmet shell is made of fiberglass, which has better impact absorption than the polycarbonate common on other helmets. And it’s lighter: this helmet is just 2.8 pounds. There’s an even better carbon fiber shell option too. Multi-density EPS foam is a nice touch for safety as well.

Inside is a nicely stitched breathable leather liner that will coddle your face like you coddle your bike. That liner is not faux-leather, it’s genuine leather.

Snap on visors or bubble face shields with the 5 snaps on the rim of the helmet. Adapt to any weather conditions, sun or rain. Since this is a Bell lid, there are TONS of aftermarket attachments for those snaps.

I still haven’t mentioned the best part: This baby is SO AFFORDABLE. It costs less than most plastic brain buckets on the market. And it comes in several matte or gloss colors and designs.

Cruise through the city feeling like Peter Fonda, and turn every head you pass. If you want to feel like a true rebel without sacrificing safety, the Bell Custom 500 is the way to go.

Here’s a real review from a buyer:

I have this helmet. It is the best fitting open face helmet I have owned in 40 years of riding. It fits like a rubber glove. Skin tight but comfortable. I love the way it stays put even as I sail past 150kmh on my 2013 Diavel. It looks classy. Has a nice finish. However it is the NOISIEST helmet I have ever worn…Bar none.

Hedon Hedonist Helmet

The Hedon Hedonist is one of the best-looking open-face helmets out there. Retro as hell, beautifully made, and it fits like a glove. If you care about style and comfort, this lid delivers.

Hedon Hedonist Cosmos

A retro open-face helmet with a cosmic twist. The "Cosmos" finish adds depth and shimmer to Hedon's signature low-profile lid, blending handcrafted style with ECE-certified safety.

Pros:

• Stunning metallic flake paint that shifts in the light
• Super lightweight (under 2 lbs)
• Premium materials: calf leather, brass/copper hardware

Cons:

• No visor included
• Minimal wind protection
• Premium price point

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The shell is a carbon and fiberglass blend that keeps it lightweight, usually under 2 pounds. With four shell sizes, it sits low and close to the head without that bulky look. The fit is snug in a good way, and the leather trim and liner feel premium right out of the box.

Inside, you get soft calf leather and Hedon’s antimicrobial liner, which is comfortable even on long rides. The hardware and snaps are brass or copper, depending on the colorway, and the whole thing just looks sharp. It now meets the latest ECE 22.06 safety standards, so it’s not just for show.

It’s surprisingly quiet for an open-face helmet too. The way it seals around the ears helps cut down the wind and street noise more than you’d expect.

If you’re into vintage style and want something that looks clean and rides well, the Hedonist is worth a serious look. Pricey, yeah, but the finish, fit, and feel make it stand out.

Sena Surge Helmet

The Sena Surge is what happens when you take a retro open-face lid, wire it up with built-in Bluetooth, and drop it straight into the 21st century.

Sena Surge Open Mesh Helmet

Seamlessly integrated Sena Mesh and Bluetooth communication for the ultimate connected riding experience.

Pros:

• Integrated Bluetooth 5.2 with Mesh Intercom for rider communication
• Hidden microphone that's shockingly clear
• Lightweight fiberglass composite shell for better impact absorption
• Removable and washable interior for easy maintenance

Cons:

• Unable to upgrade the intercom
• Have to carry the helmet to charge it

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At a glance, it gives you that classic jet helmet silhouette, but hidden inside is a fully integrated Bluetooth comms system with speakers, mic, and even a retractable sun visor. If you ride with a crew—or just like to bump music while you cruise, this one makes it stupid easy.

The shell is fiberglass composite, so it’s sturdy without feeling heavy. DOT certified, comfy padding, and speaker positioning that doesn’t squash your ears. The retractable shield is crystal clear and tucks away clean when you don’t need it.

This helmet isn’t for dirt, but for the city rider who digs open-face style and rides wired, it’s hard to beat.

Arai Classic V Helmet

Want something with more story behind it? The Arai Classic V is handcrafted in Japan by over 40 skilled builders and it shows.

Arai Classic-V Helmet

Unbeatable build quality, premium safety with Snell 2020 certification, and versatile 5-snap system for shields and visors.

Pros:

• Comfortable fit with a compact profile
• Advanced ventilation system with hidden ports
• Premium build using Arai's strong PB-cLc shell

Cons:

• Higher price point compared to similar retro-style helmets

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It’s a nod to Arai’s 1970s roots but built with modern protection. At just 2.63 pounds, it’s also one of the lightest retro lids in the lineup—and a serious step up from the old-school brain buckets.At 2.63 pounds, it’s one of the lightest retro helmets on our list. (The absolute lightest is down below!)

The lightweight shell is handmade from SuperFiber and fiberglass, the same way Arai makes their race-ready helmets. The MotoGP riders with heads worth millions of dollars to their teams? They use this shell in their helmets. That might be why this helmet landed Snell M2020 safety certification, which is absolutely wild for an open face.

This helmet also stands out for its ventilation. Most open face helmets have no vents, so even though you look cool your hair stinks after a 20 minute commute in the summer.

Arai built vents into the outer shell and removable lining – 3 air intakes at the front and 2 rear exhaust ports – so the helmet retains its clean look while running cool air over your hot head. Pretty awesome.

You get 5 snaps on the front for a removable visor or one of my styles of face shields, as well as a goggle strap holder on the back.

Just treat yourself and pick this one up. Your scalp will thank you next time you ride on a ho summer day.

Biltwell Bonanza Helmet

Okay, this one is for those of you that spent way too much wrapping your hot-as-hell scrambler pipe and custom-painting your tank.

The Biltwell Bonanza is an absolute BARGAIN. Most half helmets with a thin plastic outer shell cost more than this.

Biltwell Bonanza

A no-frills open-face lid with classic style, lightweight construction, and an unbeatable price for riders who just want the basics done right.

Pros:

• Affordable retro look.
• Lightweight ABS shell.
• Removable and washable liner.

Cons:

• No face shield or vents.
• Not ECE certified (DOT only).
• Minimal noise and weather protection.

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If you’re looking for MotoGP level premium materials and Snell certification, this isn’t the helmet for you.

But if you want a classic look in a comfortable lid for a fair price, the Biltwell Bonanza hits the mark.

You get a hand stitched liner with Lycra panels to wick away moisture, plated steel D-rings (no corrosion like cheaper lids), and a padded chin strap. Three snaps on the front let you fit a peak or bubble visor of your liking. One visor is included in the box.

The Biltwell Bonanza comes in a variety of colors, from black and white to red, burnt orange, to irridescent looks. It’s a solidly-made, safe helmet for an incredibly price. And, there’s no branding on the outside. Truly vintage look.

These guys GET IT… sometimes you want more than a skull cap without going to a full face helmet.. THIS is the result… Perfect guys..! Thanks for steering me to just the right helmet… GREAT work!

A clearly happy customer of the flat black Bonanza.

Best Classic Full Face Helmets

So you want to look like a F1 star from the wild west races of the 1960s? These are the best retro motorcycle helmets with full face protection. Keep in mind you will usually get a bit more wind noise with these helmets than a modern full face, but those are the things we give up for fashion, right?

What I love about these retro helmets is that they’ve managed to combine their retro vibe with exceedingly good safety standards by using modern materials.

Agressive Retro	Best Overall	Best Budget
Simpson Ghost Bandit	Bell Bullit	Biltwell Gringo S ECE 22.06
Description: Aggressive design with real rider features. Think fighter pilot meets Mad Max, with comfort and tech baked in.	Description: The Bell Bullitt is a retro-style full-face helmet with modern safety features, and many models are currently available at closeout prices.	Description: A retro-styled full-face helmet that combines classic design with modern safety standards.
N/A	N/A	N/A
Check Price on Revzilla	Check Price on Revzilla	Check Price on Revzilla

Agressive Retro

Simpson Ghost Bandit

Description:

Aggressive design with real rider features. Think fighter pilot meets Mad Max, with comfort and tech baked in.

N/A

Check Price on Revzilla

Best Overall

Bell Bullit

Description:

The Bell Bullitt is a retro-style full-face helmet with modern safety features, and many models are currently available at closeout prices.

N/A

Check Price on Revzilla

Best Budget

Biltwell Gringo S ECE 22.06

Description:

A retro-styled full-face helmet that combines classic design with modern safety standards.

N/A

Check Price on Revzilla

Hell, many of these helmets are safer than your average modern helmet, due to advanced outer shell materials and multi-density shock absorbing EPS liner. I can get behind that.

Biltwell Gringo S ECE Helmet

First on our list is the well-priced Biltwell Gringo S ECE Helmet. Perfect for any vintage motorcycle.

They just had to brag about ECE, didn’t they…

Biltwell Gringo S ECE 22.06

A retro-styled full-face helmet that combines classic design with modern safety standards.

Pros:

• ECE-certified for enhanced safety
• Lightweight construction
• Cushioned chin bar for comfort

Cons:

• Limited ventilation
• Visor may not stay in a cracked-open position
• Can be noisy at higher speeds.

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But just look at that stunner! Inspired by vintage racing helmets from the ’60s and ’70s, the Biltwell Gringo S helmet does not sacrifice any safety standards you’d expect from a 2020s helmet.

Let’s start with the ECE safety certification. The original Gringo helmet didn’t have it, but Biltwell went through the painstaking design process necessary to ensure the Gringo S passes those multiple-impact and rotational force tests. That means you get retro styling on your motorcycle helmet without sacrificing modern protection.

Biltwell considered comfort too. The chin bar is cushioned, which is nice considering how close that chin bar is to your chin in vintage style helmets. The classic snap close visor gives you the look of a 70s F1 helmet and keeps wind out of your eyes. Plus, you get speaker pockets for Bluetooth comms equipment – talk about modern luxuries in a classic package.

With over 10 colors to choose from and at a very affordable price, you can find the perfect match for your style and bike (or even get TWO). Grab the Biltwell Gringo S ECE Helmet and get on your bike already!

The team at Revzilla knows their stuff when it comes to helmets, and the original version of this is one of their Staff Picks.

Bell Eliminator Helmet

Did Bell pick that name because this full face helmet eliminates everything else in the retro helmet category? Let me tell you why that might be true…

Bell Eliminator

A fusion of vintage auto racing style and contemporary helmet technology.

Pros:

• Fiberglass shell with three shell sizes for a tailored fit
• ProVision dual-pane anti-fog shield
• Excellent ventilation

Cons:

• Fixed vents can lead to noise and cold air ingress Visor removal requires tools
• May be loud at highway speeds.

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First, the shell sizes. This lid has three shell sizes, meaning no bobblehead look no matter your size. And it’s made of fiberglass, which is lighter and stronger than the usual ABS plastic. Plus, the 5 EPS liner sizes ensure that your head will be comfortable and secure while wearing it.

All that customization is probably why the Bell Eliminator is not just DOT certified, but ECE as well.

The Bell Eliminator also comes with a dual-paned ProVision face shield that means this helmet will never fog. No need to mess with annoying Pinlocks to get anti-fog protection. There’s plenty of airflow already due to holes at the top for ventilation. Don’t worry about rain – Bell sells a cover for those vents if you need it.

And if you prefer the old school style of wearing goggles, you can easily remove the face shield and pop on goggles. An eyeglass-friendly liner and speaker pockets make it easy to wear this lid with glasses or a Bluetooth headset.

The Bell Eliminator is a jack-of-all-trades: just as fitting for a scramble in the dirt as a cruise through the city on a cafe racer.

Bell Bullitt Helmet

The Bullitt almost doesn’t need an introduction. Just LOOK AT IT!

The Bell Bullitt is named after the iconic car chase movie “Bullitt,” which starred Steve McQueen as a San Francisco cop driving a Ford Mustang GT. McQueen’s character wore a Bell Star helmet in the 1960s film, which inspired the design of the Bullitt helmet.

Bell Bullit

The Bell Bullitt is a retro-style full-face helmet with modern safety features, and many models are currently available at closeout prices.

Pros:

• Timeless design with modern features
• Integrated flip-up shield
• Swappable shields and liners

Cons:

• Fit can be tight for some head shapes
• Not the quietest lid around

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The modern Bullitt helmet preserves the style of the Bell Star, but integrates the tech of today. You get an ultra-low profile fiber composite shell, making it lightweight and comfortable to wear.

The micro-suede inner lining with leather trim provides a luxurious feel with a classic look. The hidden ventilation system on the brow looks like visor snaps and keeps your head cool and dry. The snap-close visor is a throwback to vintage racing helmets and the big eyeport offers excellent visibility.

Starting to see a trend: the Bell Bullitt is another classic lid that’s ECE rated!

You’ll spend a bit more on the Bullitt than other vintage motorcycle helmets; but you get a more premium helmet with much bigger eyeport, soft interior, and iconic look. Pick this up and pull off like Steve McQueen.

If the Bullitt is a bit out of your budget, check out the Torc T-1 down below – it’s basically a cheaper version, but still ECE rated!

Want to know why riders love it? Read our Bell Bullitt Helmet review for the full story.

Simpson Ghost Bandit Helmet

Simpson is known for car racing helmets – but they did their homework on the Ghost Bandit and nailed the needs of motorcyclists.

Simpson Ghost Bandit

Aggressive design with real rider features. Think fighter pilot meets Mad Max, with comfort and tech baked in.

Pros:

• Drop-down sun visor built in.
• Great airflow.
• Bluetooth and glasses friendly.

Cons:

• Tends to run small.
• Vents aren’t adjustable.
• Can get noisy at speed.

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The first thing I have to mention is the ECE certification. Given the rotational force tests (which are not part of Snell or DOT tests), it’s difficult for car helmets to pass. Motorcyclists crash in all different positions, whereas car drivers are usually stuck in one, banging their head repeatedly in one spot. Simpson getting ECE certification means they went back to the drawing board with this helmet. It’s not just a copy of a car racing helmet.

You basically get a modern, comfortable motorcycle helmet in a more aggressive and classic package. That means vents disguised all around the helmet to keep your head cool, and even a chin curtain to keep wind noise down – rare on a vintage helmet. At just 3.46 pounds, there’s no sore neck in your future.

Want an even lighter and stronger helmet? Go for the version with a full carbon fiber shell.

One of my friends is a huge Mad Max fan, and bought this lid to go along with his green bobber. Nice military-industrial look, suitable for any vintage motorcycle or a cafe racer.

If you’re reading this, Brian, tell us what you think!

Biltwell Lane Splitter Factory Helmet

If you’re looking for a helmet that can keep up with your badass style, then you gotta check out the Biltwell Lane Splitter. This bad boy is the perfect combination of form and function. Let me tell you why.

First of all, the hand-stitched inner lining is not only dope as hell, but it’s also super comfy. You won’t want to take this baby off. And the large vents at the chin? Talk about keeping things fresh. You’ll be able to breathe easy, no matter how hard you’re pushing it.

Biltwell Lane Splitter

A retro full-face helmet with an aggressive look and modern upgrades. Now ECE R22.06 certified, it delivers on both safety and street style.

Pros:

• ECE R22.06 certified for serious protection. Lightweight ABS shell.
• Wide eyeport with great visibility.

Cons:

• Can feel snug around the cheeks.
• Ventilation is basic.
• No internal sun visor.

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But that’s not all. The face shield has accurate optics, so you won’t have to worry about any distortion messing with your vision. And the brass snap closure for the shield is not only sturdy, it looks super vintage and can be snapped when wearing gloves.

And if you’re all about that Bluetooth life, you can pop your unit’s speakers right in the ready mesh pockets. No more struggling to fit your buds in your ears with your helmet on. Just slide those suckers in and you’re good to go.

And to top it all off, this helmet is ECE rated – meaning it can take a tumble with multiple impacts while still protecting your head. The best part is this helmet is well priced for a vintage lid: great style with simple materials will do that.

Torc T-1 Helmet

The cheaper cousin of the Bell Bullitt. Less demanding on your wallet, but equally as satisfying to ride in.

Torc T-1

$299.99 $269.99

A budget-friendly full-face retro helmet with serious vintage style and surprising features for the price. ECE certified, with a sleek bubble visor and a plush interior that punches above its weight.

Pros:

• ECE certified.
• Classic styling with a built-in bubble visor.
• Faux suede interior feels comfortable.

Cons:

• Ventilation is limited.
• Can run slightly heavy.
• Fit may be tight around the jaw.

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06/07/2025 06:11 am GMT

A straight rip off the classic Bell Bullitt design, the Torc T-1 keeps the look but gives you some money back by swapping in a faux suede liner.

That’s about the only tradeoff. You still get a fiberglass shell, making it lightweight without sacrificing strength. You’ll stay cool with the chin and forehead vents, which don’t mess with the timeless look of the helmet. The face shield is still ginormous with anti-fog and anti-scratch coating.

And it’s still ECE rated!

And this one comes in a whopping 20+ colors, so you can match your outfit, your ride, your friend, your mom. Whatever you like. Even has a few that throw back to retro metal flake helmets from the 80s.

At a cheaper price than the Bell Bullitt, it’s a fantastic alternative that doesn’t skimp on style or safety.

Shoei Glamster Helmet

Despite having possibly the worst name for a helmet ever (is it for a Barbie doll?) the Glamster was one of the most anticipated retro helmets when it was released in 2020.

Let me tell you why.

Riders were not just itching to hit the road since everything else was shut down in 2020. The Shoei Glamster is one of those gems that combines Shoei’s incredible safety record with impeccable retro style.

Shoei Glamster

A premium full-face retro helmet that blends 70s style with modern Shoei engineering.

Pros:

• ECE 22.06 certified.
• Lightweight fiberglass shell.
• Excellent ventilation for a vintage-style lid.

Cons:

• Price is on the higher side.
• Visor removal takes a few steps.
• Styling may be too subtle for some retro fans.

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If you’re looking for a helmet that blends safety and style, look no further than the Shoei Glamster. With Shoei’s patented AIM shell available in three different sizes, the Glamster fits all sizes closely to the dome while being both lightweight and protective.

The Glamster doesn’t just have standout looks, it’s super comfortable as well. The huge forehead vent doesn’t look out of place, and neither do the four chin vents. Each of these feed dedicated channels in the EPS foam with cool air, keeping you comfortable even on a smoking hot day.

Don’t settle for a helmet that sacrifices style for safety or comfort. The Shoei Glamster combines the best of both worlds, so you can hit the road with confidence and style.

It’s worth nothing this lid is ECE approved, but only available for the European market. It is not DOT approved!

The Best Retro Off-Road Helmets

Do you live in the metropolis but still like to play in the dirt on the weekends? Any of these helmets below will suit you both when you’re weaving through traffic on your cafe racer and when you’re hitting trails on your scrambler.

That means big eye ports to accommodate goggles, long peaks to protect from sun and flying mud, and tough chin bars to take those full-frontal impacts like a champ. You also need a lightweight helmet with removable cheek pads that you can wear all day and clean out thoroughly when you’re done.

I’ve picked only the top three vintage helmets with modern features that fit those criteria. Let’s get into it.

Bell Moto-3 Helmet

Like the Custom 500 and Bullitt, the Moto-3 is not a new helmet trying to act like a vintage one. It’s a helmet with a long heritage, spanning sixty years of Bell’s design expertise.

Bell Moto-3

The Bell Moto-3 helmet combines iconic 1970s motocross styling with modern safety features, offering a retro look without compromising on protection.​

Pros:

• Authentic vintage design that appeals to retro and classic motorcycle enthusiasts
• Lightweight fiberglass composite shell for comfort and durability
• Removable and washable terrycloth or micro-suede liner for easy maintenance

Cons:

• Lacks a built-in visor or face shield, requiring separate goggles for eye protection
• Limited noise insulation compared to modern full-face helmets
• Minimal ventilation features may lead to discomfort in hot weather

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Modern protection with classic styling for those of you who like to get messy in the dirt.

Crafted with a tough fiberglass shell, this helmet is built to withstand whatever obstacles you might encounter on the road or the trail. And with three shell sizes and four EPS sizes, you’ll get a perfect fit that’s tailored to your head size. Most motocross helmets can’t say the same.

A nice touch on this helmet is the EPS lined chin bar. Whether you go headfirst in to a cab or a tree, the fiberglass and EPS foam will soak up the impact.

And when things get dirty, no worries: the terrycloth liner is washable. And you should wash it right after a long day in the mud. Don’t leave ANY dirty helmet in your 300 square foot apartment for a whole hot summer week. Take it from me; my girlfriend almost dumped me over that stench.

The Bell Moto-3 comes with a peak, too, so you can keep the sun out of your eyes while you’re tearing up the dirt. It’s the perfect combination of street style and off-road functionality.

HJC V60 Helmet

The HJC V60 is a modern helmet dressed in vintage scrambler gear.

HJC V60

A vintage scrambler lid with smart upgrades. The V60 nails the throwback vibe but adds modern touches like an internal sun visor and Bluetooth-ready speaker pockets.

Pros:

• Internal sun visor.
• Comfortable suede-like interior.
• ECE 22.06 and DOT certified.

Cons:

• No peak ventilation.
• Integrated visor isn't replaceable.
• Not the lightest in its class.

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It brings that classic 80s enduro look, but throws in an internal sun visor, Bluetooth-ready speaker pockets, and a lightweight fiberglass shell. It’s DOT and ECE 22.06 certified, which is impressive for something this retro-looking.

The V60 also has one of the most comfortable liners in this class. The suede-touch fabric and contoured cheek pads feel like high-end gear, and the integrated visor slides down smoothly with a glove-friendly tab. It also comes with a detachable peak if you want to lean harder into that dual-sport vibe.

If you’re the type who bounces between pavement and packed dirt, but doesn’t want to look like you just walked off a rally stage, this one walks the line nicely.

Customizing your Own Retro Helmet!

If you want a totally custom, retro-style helmet, check out Helmade.

I can’t vouch for the safety on the lids they make, but the style possibilities are endless. From what I hear, their lids are well built. Check out Helmade.

FAQs on Vintage Motorcycle Helmets

Are retro helmets less safe?

Not if they’re certified. Just because a helmet looks vintage doesn’t mean it’s using old tech. Most of the helmets on this list are fully DOT or ECE certified, with modern shells and liners inside. As long as it’s from a reputable brand and fits right, you’re good.

Is a 10 year old motorcycle helmet still good?

It is almost always a bad idea to wear a 10 year old motorcycle helmet. It might look great, but the foam has almost definitely degraded – providing zero protection from impacts. Even if the helmet is still intact, it’s using old technology and won’t protect you nearly as well as a modern helmet. Keep your classic helmets on the shelf and pick up a retro lid from this list.

How much should I pay for a good motorcycle helmet?

There’s no one right answer to how much you should pay for a helmet. Helmets can range from $50 to $1000, and the price doesn’t always reflect the quality. Your head is probably your most valuable body part, so don’t skimp on protecting it. Choose a lid from a reputable manufacturer like AGV, Arai, Shoei, HJC, Shark, or Bell for example. This is one area where you don’t want to skimp.

Is there a helmet that doesn’t mess up your hair?

While there’s no helmet that won’t mess up your hair at all, there are some that are better than others. Helmets with a closer fit to your head won’t pull your hair around, so look for lids with multiple shell and EPS sizes. You can also try wearing a hairnet or skullcap under your helmet to help keep your hair in place. A few of the Bell helmets on our list of retro helmets are a good place to start looking for a close-fitting helmet.

Why do motorcycle helmets only last 5 years?

The reason helmets only last five years is because the protective materials inside (EPS foam) can degrade over time, even if it’s not being used. Exposure to heat, cold, and UV rays can take a further toll on the helmet’s ability to protect your head. So, it’s recommended that you replace your helmet every 5 years, even if it hasn’t been in an accident.

Either that, or helmet manufacturers just want us to spend more!

Can I ride with a vintage helmet if it looks fine?

Even if it’s in perfect shape on the outside, the inside is what matters. Old foam loses its structure over time, and the shell materials degrade too. If you want that vintage look, your safest move is to get a modern helmet with retro styling.

Is it OK to buy cheap helmet?

Well, the short answer is no. While it’s tempting to save money, a cheap helmet might not provide the same level of protection as a higher quality one. Cheaper helmets use less protective materials (i.e. ABS plastic instead of fiberglass or carbon fiber shell) and they tend to skimp on quality when it comes to anti-fog, airflow and other comfort items that can become safety issues.

Also into Retro Riding Gear?

If you’re looking for other riding gear to complement one of these vintage motorcycle helmets, check out the classy leather jackets, jeans and gloves on offer at Pando Moto. They’re on a mission to bring style and protection together, delivering highly functional and safe motorcycle jackets that will fit right in at the trendiest bars in London or New York.

One of my favorite models is the Twin (also available on Revzilla while supplies last).

Final Thoughts

Retro helmets have come a long way. What used to be a compromise between style and safety is now a sweet spot where you don’t have to choose. Whether you want a full-face for your café build, an open-face for urban cruising, or something that can handle a fire road on Sunday, there’s a vintage-style helmet on this list that fits the bill.

Just remember: get the right fit, check the safety ratings, and buy what makes you want to ride more.

The post 16 Best Retro Motorcycle Helmets (All Styles) first appeared on It's Better On The Road.

If you’re new here, I’m Evan Rally. I ride every day (I don’t own a car), geek out over gear, and know what it’s like to dodge traffic with a double shot of espresso in your system. This guide’s for anyone who wants their ride to work to feel less like a chore and more like the best part of their day.

If you’re zipping around on a stand-up e-scooter (like a Lime, Bird, or Segway), this guide might be overkill, but if you’re curious about real protection and want to upgrade your setup, we’ll go through some open-face helmets in our review that you could also check out. 

Here are our top picks for you motor scooter riders:

Classic	Rebel	Versatile
Bell Custom 500	Bell Broozer	Sedici Sistema 3
Iconic style, comfortable fit with 5 shell sizes, and great adaptability for aftermarket shields.	A modern, aggressive helmet that seamlessly transforms between full-face and open-face styles.	A lightweight modular helmet with features and build quality (like stainless steel visor components and seamless face shield gasket) of much more expensive lids.
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Check Price on Amazon	Check Price on Amazon	With Comms System

Classic

Bell Custom 500

Iconic style, comfortable fit with 5 shell sizes, and great adaptability for aftermarket shields.

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Rebel

Bell Broozer

A modern, aggressive helmet that seamlessly transforms between full-face and open-face styles.

Check Price on Revzilla

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Versatile

Sedici Sistema 3

A lightweight modular helmet with features and build quality (like stainless steel visor components and seamless face shield gasket) of much more expensive lids.

Check Price on Revzilla

With Comms System

Now, before we dive into gear picks, let’s bust a few common scooter helmet myths:

• That super-cheap helmet online? It might look the part, but without proper safety certification (we’re talking DOT or ECE 22.06 minimum), it’s offering little more protection than wishful thinking in a spill.
• Open-face freedom feels fantastic, absolutely. But choosing one without a quality face shield or forgetting the importance of eye protection can turn a sunny ride into a squint-fest or leave you dodging bugs and road grit.
• Dropping big bucks doesn’t guarantee the best scooter helmet. For stop-and-go city riding, features like excellent low-speed ventilation and lighter weight often win over fancy carbon shells or extreme aerodynamics meant for the racetrack.
• Function must meet form. Falling for looks alone is easy, but that super stylish lid might block your peripheral vision (critical for spotting city hazards) or lack the comfort features needed for daily wear. 

Ready to find a helmet that makes your commute safer and more enjoyable? Let’s dive in.

Open-Face, Modular, or Urban Style? Choosing Your Commuter Lid

Scooter life often means balancing airflow, protection, and pure convenience. Here are the main styles commuters gravitate towards:

• Open-Face (3/4 or Jet Style): Offers maximum airflow, an immersive feel, and easy communication. Often lighter and easier to stash. Great for classic style and hot weather, but provides less facial protection. Bell’s Custom 500 is a go-to for riders who want a lightweight, low-profile ride..
• Modular Helmets: The versatile choice. Full-face protection when closed, open-face convenience when stopped (or sometimes while riding slowly, if P/J certified). Ideal for those who want flexibility. Sedici’s Sistema III stands out for riders who want versatility and value in one lid.
• Urban Style / Convertible Helmets: Unique designs tailored for city life. May include features like ventilation systems built to handle stop-and-go traffic (think oversized intake ports, wide exhaust vents, and airflow channels designed for low-speed cooling) or removable chin bars for ultimate flexibility. Style and function often blend uniquely here. Bell’s Broozer is a prime example.
• Full-Face Helmets (Urban Focus): Maximum protection and weather sealing. Modern designs focus on light weight, wide visibility, and good low-speed airflow to combat feeling closed-in during city riding. Protection and everyday performance align here. HJC’s i10 is a commuter-ready full-face helmet with serious safety chops.

Here are our top picks tailored for the urban scooter:

Best Open-Face Scooter Helmets

Embrace the breeze with style and function.

Open-face helmets are a solid choice for scooter riders who want more airflow, better visibility, and an easier lid to live with day to day. 

Whether you’re into classic 3/4 styling or want built-in features like sun shields and comms, these picks balance comfort, protection, and real-world rideability. 

I’ve worn a few myself, and the rest come recommended by riders who commute daily.

Sena Surge: Light for the Daily Ride

When you’re riding to work, running errands, or just dodging traffic on two wheels, the Sena Surge feels made for that kind of life. It’s a clean-looking open-face helmet that’s lightweight, surprisingly comfy, and doesn’t overdo it with bells and whistles. It just feels easy. No pressure points, no bulk, no fuss.

It’s got a fiberglass shell, so it’s sturdier and lighter than a lot of budget lids out there. The liner’s soft, easy to pop out and wash, and the whole thing feels breathable even when you’re stuck at a light. The fit feels snug without being tight. You forget you’re wearing it, which is kind of the goal.

The built-in Bluetooth and Mesh Intercom are where this helmet shines. Everything’s integrated. No weird clip-ons or boxes sticking off the side, which keeps the weight down and the look clean. The buttons are easy enough to hit with gloves on, and battery life lasts 20+ hours – long enough that charging isn’t something you’ll stress over too often.

The Catch? Charging it means bringing the whole helmet inside, it doesn’t have a removable battery like some modular setups. And while the comms are solid and simple to use, they’re also non-upgradable, what you get is what you get, so no swapping in future Sena tech down the line.

Silver Lining: For riders who want a clean, wire-free helmet with built-in comms, solid construction, and true daily-rider convenience, the Surge delivers. Especially if you’re part of a scooter crew or frequently riding two-up, that Mesh Intercom is a total game changer for real-time coordination and conversation.

Alternative Option: If you’re looking for more customization or modular upgrades, you might consider pairing a Shoei J-Cruise II with the Sena SRL2 unit. It’s pricier, but gives you flexibility for future tech upgrades and a more plush touring setup.

Sena Surge Open Mesh Helmet

Seamlessly integrated Sena Mesh and Bluetooth communication for the ultimate connected riding experience.

Pros:

• Integrated Bluetooth 5.2 with Mesh Intercom for rider communication
• Hidden microphone that's shockingly clear
• Lightweight fiberglass composite shell for better impact absorption
• Removable and washable interior for easy maintenance

Cons:

• Unable to upgrade the intercom
• Have to carry the helmet to charge it

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Our Review: Sena Surge is a great pick for riders who want everyday comfort with built-in communication that doesn’t ruin the look. Stay tuned for a full review soon. 

Bell Custom 500: The Original Cool

If authentic retro style is your jam, the Bell Custom 500 is the undisputed king. Directly inspired by Bell’s 1954 original, it delivers that timeless 3/4 look favored by classic scooter riders and custom builders alike. It’s elegance through simplicity.

Don’t let the vintage looks fool you; Bell uses modern tech where it counts. A key feature often highlighted is their use of five distinct shell sizes. This means you get a low-profile fit that looks proportional, avoiding the ‘astronaut’ look common with cheaper helmets that use only one or two shell sizes. 

The fiberglass composite shell provides certified protection (DOT/ECE – It meets both DOT (US) and the current ECE (Europe) safety standards, meaning you’re street-legal and certified protected whether riding stateside or across the pond), and the quilted liner feels surprisingly plush. It’s noticeably lightweight, adding to the comfort for daily wear. The five snaps allow easy customization with bubble shields, flat shields, or peaks.

The Catch? It’s bare-bones basic: no integrated shields, no vents. Offers zero facial protection in a crash. Expect wind noise and direct exposure to the elements. 

Silver Lining: Delivers certified protection with iconic, low-profile styling and a lightweight feel at a very attractive price. Its simplicity is its appeal for many riders. 

Alternative Option: If you love the retro vibe but want something a bit more exclusive, check out the Arai Classic V, it’s super lightweight and one of the few open-face helmets that’s Snell M2020 certified. It’s a premium pick for riders who find the Bell Custom 500 a little too mainstream.

Bell Custom 500 Open-Face Motorcycle Helmet

$139.95

Iconic style, comfortable fit with 5 shell sizes, and great adaptability for aftermarket shields.

Pros:

• Five shell sizes for a perfect, low-profile fit
• Integrated five-snap system for shields and visors
• Lightweight design for all-day comfort

Cons:

• Runs small, sizing up is recommended

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Our Review: We haven’t done a full deep dive on it yet, but we hope to soon. In the meantime, check out our other helmet reviews on It’s Better On The Road.

Shoei J-Cruise II: Premium Open-Face Commuting

For riders who love the open-face experience but demand premium comfort, features, and refinement, the Shoei J-Cruise II sets the standard. It takes the practicality of a jet helmet and elevates it with Shoei’s renowned quality.

Think of this as the luxury sedan of open-face helmets. The fit and finish are great, with a plush, fully removable liner that makes daily wear a pleasure. Shoei engineered the aerodynamics to be stable and surprisingly quiet (for an open-face), reducing fatigue on longer commutes or faster roads. 

The large CJ-2 face shield provides excellent coverage and clarity, sealing well against wind and rain. The integrated QSV-2 sun shield is optically correct, easy to operate, and drops down low. Ventilation is also effective, pulling air through intake and exhaust vents. It’s ready for seamless integration with the Sena SRL/SRL2 comms systems.

The Catch? Premium Shoei price tag, it’s a significant investment for an open-face. While quiet for its type, it won’t match a good full-face. 

Silver Lining: Offers comfort, build quality, features (excellent sun shield, comms integration), and refinement in an open-face package. It makes commuting feel effortless and luxurious. For something you’re going to wear every day, it’s comfort you’ll have plenty of opportunities to appreciate.

Alternative Option: The Bell Mag-9 Sena provides many similar features (sun shield, comms readiness) at a much lower price, albeit without the Shoei’s level of refinement or quietness.

Shoei J-Cruise II Helmet

Shoei J-Cruise II Helmet offers premium comfort and safety for open-face touring.

Pros:

• Enhanced ventilation system for superior airflow
• Integrated sun shield for instant glare protection
• Bluetooth-compatible for seamless communication

Cons:

• Face shield inserts sold separately

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Our Review: We’re huge fans of Shoei, and the J-Cruise II is mentioned in our Best Shoei Helmets list – check it out.

Best Modular Scooter Helmets

Flexibility for the stop-and-go city rhythm.

Modular helmets are the ultimate multitaskers for urban riders. They blend the security you want when you’re moving with the easy-access convenience you need for quick stops or interacting with the city around you. That flip-up chin bar makes navigating the daily commute just plain easier.

Let’s dive into the best ones in the market.

Bell SRT Modular: Value-Packed Versatility

Bell is known for bringing solid features to accessible price points. The SRT Modular exemplifies this, offering the convenience of a flip-up design with a robust fiberglass composite shell (a step up from polycarbonate) without the premium cost.

This helmet is a workhorse for commuters who want options. Stuck in traffic and need air? Flip up the chin bar. 

Need full protection on a faster section or in bad weather? Snap it down. 

The SRT Modular provides this flexibility along with features like an internal drop-down sun shield and speaker pockets for easy comms installation. The Panovision shield offers a wide field of view, crucial for city awareness. 

The Catch? Fiberglass makes it lighter than polycarbonate modulars, but it’s still heavier than a comparable full-face. Can be noisy, especially compared to premium modulars like the Shoei Neotec 3. Ventilation is adequate but not outstanding. 

Silver Lining: Provides the convenience of a modular design with a protective fiberglass shell, internal sun shield, and comms readiness at a very competitive price point. Great bang-for-buck versatility. 

Alternative Option: The HJC i91 offers similar features in a polycarbonate shell, often praised highly for its interior comfort at a comparable or slightly lower price.

Bell SRT Helmet

$128.28

The helmet combines touring and commuting features with a lightweight fiberglass composite shell for versatile and comfortable riding.

Pros:

• Speaker pockets to insert your choice of headset
• Lightweight fiberglass composite shell
• Eyewear-compatible

Cons:

• No Bluetooth unit included - pick your own

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06/07/2025 06:07 am GMT

Our Review: The SRT Modular offers impressive value, bringing fiberglass construction to the mid-range modular market. Watch out for our future review notes on It’s Better On The Road.

Sedici Sistema 3: Everyday Commuter Flex

If you’re the kind of rider who wants the best of both worlds – open-face freedom at a stoplight, full-face protection on the move – the Sedici Sistema 3 has your back. It’s a modular lid built with daily riding in mind, especially if you’re clocking miles through city traffic or running errands on two wheels.

The latest version upgrades to a five-layer fiberglass and aramid shell, now in three shell sizes. That means a better fit and less of that oversized look on smaller heads. It’s ECE 22.06 and DOT certified, feels balanced on the head, and has a drop-down sun visor, a thick face shield with solid detents, and speaker pockets if you’re running a comms system. At around 3 lbs 12 oz, it’s not featherlight, but still super manageable for day-to-day riding.

The Catch? Like most modulars, it’s not the quietest lid out there. Totally rideable, just know earplugs are your friend on longer stretches. Ventilation is decent but not amazing, and swapping the shield takes some nail dexterity (or a small tool if you’re fancy). Still, the updates like the new stainless steel locking tab make a real difference.

Silver Lining: It’s a versatile, commuter-ready helmet with legit safety ratings and comfort tweaks that make daily rides smoother. For the price, it’s punching way above its weight.

Alternative Option: If you’re eyeing modulars but want something a bit more premium and quieter, the HJC RPHA 91 (one of the most comfortable lids I’ve ever worn) is a slick step up, though you’ll feel it in your wallet.

Sedici Sistema 3 Helmet

A lightweight modular helmet with features and build quality (like stainless steel visor components and seamless face shield gasket) of much more expensive lids.

Pros:

• Strong & light fiberglass composite shell
• Close fit (5 EPS sizes and 3 shell sizes)
• DOT and ECE safety ratings
• Large speaker pockets

Cons:

• Pinlock insert sold separately

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Our Review: The Sedici Sistema 3 hits a sweet spot for riders who want flexibility without going full luxury. We actually think it’s one of the best helmets out there for the price, check out our roundup The Best Motorcycle Helmets of 2025.

Bell Broozer: Adaptable Aggression

Standing out in the urban landscape, the Bell Broozer brings aggressive streetfighter style combined with unique convertible functionality. What makes it unique is that the chin bar doesn’t flip up, it’s removable – which allows it to function as either a full-face or an open-face helmet, and it’s DOT certified in both configurations.

This helmet is all about attitude and adaptability. The chin bar releases via two simple levers, transforming the look and airflow instantly. This is perfect for commuters facing varied conditions, full protection for faster stretches or bad weather, open-face freedom for hot days or slow traffic. 

The drop-down visor works in either mode, providing convenient eye protection. Its unique look is often highlighted as a key reason riders pick up this lid: it’s just different.

It’s reasonably light for a convertible helmet, using a polycarbonate shell. Ventilation is decent, particularly when in open-face mode or with the chin vent open in full-face mode. The fit is generally snug and secure.

The Catch? The removable chin bar might not offer the absolute impact integrity of a one-piece full-face shell. It can be noisy, and the top ventilation isn’t the strongest. The polarizing style isn’t for everyone. 

Silver Lining: Offers certified protection in two distinct modes, providing unmatched ventilation flexibility and aggressive urban style from a trusted brand: Bell. 

Alternative Option: Scorpion EXO Covert 2 Helmet. If you’re into that modular, transformer-style vibe, this one’s worth a look. It’s got a removable front face mask and a drop-down visor, so you can rock it as an open-face or go full-face when needed.

Bell Broozer

A versatile, aggressive helmet that seamlessly transforms between full-face and open-face styles.

Pros:

• Lightweight and durable polycarbonate/ABS shell
• Integrated anti-fog, UV-protected drop-down shield
• Removable chin bar for two-in-one functionality

Cons:

• Slightly heavier than some other modular helmets at 3.2 lbs

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Our Review: The Broozer’s unique design is quite cool. We’re eager to try it ourselves and come back with a review. 

Best Full-Face Scooter Helmets

Prioritizing maximum protection for city streets.

When maneuvering through traffic or hitting higher speeds on your daily ride, full-face helmets offer the best protection out there. 

These picks are built to handle the chaos of city streets while keeping noise down, comfort up, and your face fully covered. Ideal for scooter commuters who don’t want to compromise on safety.

HJC i10: Daily Commuter Performance with Track-Day Cred

If you’re after a full-face helmet that’s commuter-ready that’s built for daily city riding yet offers serious protection, the HJC i10 brings solid features without the high price tag. It’s the follow-up to the popular CL-17 and a favorite for riders who want comfort, safety, and quiet performance under $150.

You’re getting a polycarbonate shell with two shell sizes and four EPS sizes, so fit stays proportional. At around 3 lbs 9 oz in a medium, it’s light enough for daily wear. Plus, it’s Snell M2020 and DOT certified, which is rare at this price, especially with this kind of airflow and build quality.

The Catch? The airflow system is much improved over the last gen, but it’s still not in Nolan N30-4 territory when it comes to stop-and-go cooling. The noise level is decent, helped by a new gasket and shield seal, but it’s not whisper quiet. And while it’s Pinlock-ready, the insert isn’t included, so you’ll need to pick one up separately if you ride in colder or wetter conditions.

Silver Lining: Great everyday helmet that’s built for the long haul. It fits well, vents well at speed, and has room for comms. For under $150, it’s hard to beat if you want safety, comfort, and a no-fuss design that works for commuting and more.

Alternative Option: If you want a quieter, more premium full-face with built-in Bluetooth support, the Shoei GT-Air III is a big upgrade, though at more than double the price.

Our Review: The i10 is one of the best bang-for-buck helmets out there, especially for riders who mix weekday commutes with weekend rides. We look forward to reviewing it. 

Comparison Table

Note: Weights are approximate and vary by size/spec. Price ranges are relative.

Buying Guide: Choosing Your Perfect Scooter Helmet

Finding the right lid for your urban commute involves balancing specific needs. Here’s what to focus on:

1. Safety Certification (Absolutely Essential): Look for DOT or, even better, ECE 22.06. SNELL (like the HJC i10) adds another layer of rigorous testing. Never use a non-certified helmet, even on a low-speed electric scooter. City hazards are real.
2. Fit is #1: A helmet must fit snugly and comfortably. No pressure points, no rocking around. Try it on for 15-20 minutes. A comfy helmet gets worn every time. Remember Bell often uses multiple shell sizes (like the Custom 500) for a better proportional fit.
3. Style vs. Protection (The Urban Choice):
   • Open-Face: Max airflow, classic style, easy interaction. Least facial protection. Bell offers great options like the Custom 500 (style) and previously mentioned Mag-9 (features).
   • Full-Face: Max protection, better in weather. Can feel hotter. Look for good vents and wide viewports (like the HJC i10 or premium AGV K6S).
   • Modular/Convertible: Great flexibility (like the Bell SRT Modular or Broozer). Can be heavier/noisier.
4. Visibility is Key: You need to see and be seen. Wide peripheral vision is critical in the city. Optically correct visors prevent distortion. An internal sun visor is a massive plus for changing light. Consider brighter helmet colors. 
5. Ventilation for Stop-and-Go: City riding means less constant airflow. Look for helmets designed for good ventilation even at lower speeds or with large, effective vents.
6. Weight = Comfort: Lighter helmets mean less neck strain during daily commutes with lots of head turns and stops. Consider shell material (fiberglass/composites are lighter than polycarbonate, like the Bell SRT vs. cheaper modulars).
7. Commuter Conveniences: Easy-to-use buckles (micrometric often preferred), washable liners, speaker pockets or specific comms integration (check compatibility!) all make daily life easier.
8. Style Points: Yes, you want it to look good with your scooter! Bell, in particular, offers a wide range of styles from classic (Custom 500) to modern aggressive (Broozer). Just don’t sacrifice safety or fit for looks alone.

Your scooter helmet is your most vital piece of gear for navigating the city safely and comfortably. Choose one with certified protection, ensure a perfect fit, and select the style and features that best match your daily ride.

Scoot safe and enjoy the commute!

The post Best Scooter Helmets 2025: Stay Safe & Stylish in the City (Open-Face, Modular & More) first appeared on It's Better On The Road.

The good news is that you can absolutely find a lid that keeps your head safe and your wallet happy. By the time you finish reading this, you’ll know exactly which budget-friendly helmet is the perfect match for your kind of riding, saving you time and cash.

Now, let me hit you with a few truths that might stir the pot a little:

1. Spending over $500 on a helmet doesn’t automatically make you safer than a well-chosen $250 one; safety certifications matter way more than price tags. 
2. Second, the idea of one single “best” budget helmet is a myth, since the best one is the one that fits your head shape, your riding style, and your specific needs. 
3. And finally, sometimes that helmet sitting comfortably under $400 has the exact features (like an internal sun visor or great ventilation) that you’ll actually use and appreciate more on your daily ride than some fancy feature on a lid costing twice as much.

Ready to find your perfect budget lid? Let’s ride.

Find the Right Budget Helmet for Your Riding Style

Before we jump into specific helmets, let’s quickly talk about why different types of riding demand different types of head protection. It’s not just about looks (though that’s part of the fun).

• Street Riding/Commuting: You’re dealing with stop-and-go traffic, varying speeds, and maybe shorter trips. Convenience features like modular designs (flip-up chin bars) or internal sun visors are gold here. Good ventilation is key for comfort, especially at lower speeds.
• Touring: Long days in the saddle mean comfort is king. You want a helmet that’s relatively quiet, stable at highway speeds, aerodynamic, and comfortable for hours on end. Features like good ventilation, plush liners, and potentially integrated communication system compatibility are big pluses.
• Adventure (ADV) Riding: This is the mixed bag: highway stretches, twisty backroads, and maybe some dirt or gravel trails. You need versatility: good ventilation for slower off-road work, a peak to block sun and roost, decent aerodynamics for the road sections, and often a wider eye-port for better visibility. Durability is also a factor.
• Track Riding: Speed and safety are paramount. You need a helmet with a top-tier safety rating (like Snell), excellent aerodynamics for high speeds, a secure fit that won’t budge, and usually a focus on ventilation designed for a tucked riding position. Comfort is important, but often secondary to pure performance and protection in this context.

Knowing where you spend most of your time on two wheels helps narrow down the features that matter most. Now, let’s look at some killer options that deliver without demanding top dollar.

Sedici Strada 3 Helmet: Best Budget Street Helmet 

(Approx. $300)

Hitting the blacktop for your daily commute or weekend joyrides? The Sedici Strada 3 helmet is a serious contender in the budget-friendly arena. 

Right off the bat, the shell material stands out. Most helmets in this price range use polycarbonate (plastic). It works, it passes safety tests, but it requires more material (making it heavier) or thicker EPS foam inside to absorb impacts. The Strada 3 uses a fiberglass composite shell. This is typically found on mid-range to premium helmets. Fiberglass offers better impact energy dispersion, allowing for a slightly lighter and smaller overall helmet profile compared to a polycarb equivalent.

Fit is another area where the Strada 3 tries to overdeliver. They use four distinct shell sizes and six sizes for the internal EPS foam liner. Which means less “bobblehead” effect. Cheaper helmets use only one or two shell sizes and just vary the padding thickness. With the Strada 3, if you have a smaller head size, you get a physically smaller, more proportional helmet shell, not just thicker pads stuffed into a large shell. This improves aerodynamics, reduces weight on your neck, and frankly, looks better.

Little details make a difference on the road. The visor latch mechanism is stainless steel. Steel won’t corrode or get sticky like cheaper plastic or pot-metal latches can over time. It’s a small thing, but it speaks to the thought put into longevity.

Sedici is Revzilla’s house brand, which is interesting because Revzilla has mountains of data (reviews, returns, customer feedback) on what riders love and hate about helmets. They poured that knowledge into creating lids like the Strada 3, aiming to hit that sweet spot of features, quality, and price.

Another of the standout features of the Strada 3 is the face shield gasket. This means the rubber seal around the visor port is designed to create a tighter, more uniform seal against the shield when it’s closed. Less turbulence and fewer gaps for air to whistle through make for a noticeably quieter ride compared to many budget lids, letting you hear your engine (or your Cardo) better and reducing fatigue on longer rides.

Ventilation is actually one of the stronger points on the Strada 3, especially if you’re riding in warmer weather. You’ve got dual intake vents up top, a redesigned chin vent that pulls in a decent amount of air even at lower speeds, and four exhaust ports out back to help pull heat out. The internal channeling through the EPS is deeper than you’d expect for a helmet in this range, so the airflow moves across your head instead of just hitting the front and disappearing.

Now, let’s talk about fit. The Strada 3 is known for having a more comfortable liner than most helmets in its price range. It’s plush and feels good against your skin, making those longer rides more enjoyable. Some riders find the cheek pads a little snug initially, but they tend to break in nicely over a few rides, molding to the contours of your face for a secure yet comfortable fit. A snug fit is crucial for safety, preventing the helmet from shifting in case of an impact.

The Silver Lining: If it runs a bit louder at higher speeds, that’s an easy fix with a solid pair of earplugs, something most riders should be using anyway. What you’re getting in return is a lightweight, fiberglass shell, good airflow, and a quieter-than-usual seal around the shield for a helmet in this price range. For daily commutes or weekend rides, it delivers where it counts.

Alternative Option: If you lean towards a sportier look for the street, check out the AGV K1 S. It’s a full-face helmet with race-inspired design, slightly more aerodynamic, and may run quieter at speed. You won’t get the internal sun visor or plush liner of the Strada 3, but if you’re chasing a leaner, sportier vibe, it’s a great fit.

Sedici Strada 3 Mips Helmet

A premium, lightweight helmet with advanced MIPS protection and aerodynamic design for all riding positions.

Pros:

• Advanced MIPS impact protection
• Lightweight fiberglass shell
• Excellent ventilation

Cons:

• Pinlock insert sold separately

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Our Review

We haven’t done a full deep-dive review on the Sedici Strada 3 just yet, but based on its features and reputation in the budget modular category, it’s a strong contender we often recommend. Keep an eye on It’s Better On The Road!

Shoei RF-SR Helmet: Best Budget Touring Helmet

(Approx. $450 – $500)

Okay, I know, I said $200 to $400, and this one creeps just above that line. But trust me, if you’re putting in serious miles (or plan to), the Shoei RF-SR is absolutely worth stretching the budget for. This was actually my first premium helmet after riding with budget gear for years, and it was a total game-changer in terms of comfort and fatigue. Think of it as your gateway to high-end touring comfort without the flagship price tag.

Shoei’s reputation isn’t hype. The build quality on the RF-SR is miles ahead of most sub-$400 lids. Everything feels tight, well put together, and solid in your hands. The AIM+ shell strikes a great balance between strength and weight, and once you’re rolling, it feels balanced and planted even on long highway stretches.

That shell, and the Snell safety certification this helmet packs, were the two main reasons I bought it. I was about to ride across the USA in three months, and I wanted a helmet with strong protection at an affordable price point. 

What really stood out to me from day one was how quiet this helmet is. It doesn’t kill all wind noise (no helmet does) but the RF-SR manages airflow in a way that keeps buffeting and roar to a minimum. After an hour on the freeway, I wasn’t constantly adjusting or trying to block wind with my shoulders. Shoei clearly tuned this thing for real-world riding, not just wind tunnel bragging rights.

The fit and interior comfort are classic Shoei: plush 3D Max-Dry liner, zero hotspots, and just that glove-like feel around your head. I wore  this lid on a 12,000 mile, 100 day ride across the USA – putting in many 6-8 hour days – and never had to think about it. No forehead pressure, no pinched ears, nothing. That kind of comfort matters more than people realize until you’re three hours deep into a ride.

Ventilation is there when you need it. It’s not super aggressive like some sport lids, but it’s smartly designed for steady airflow without generating noise. For me, it’s ideal for touring and all-day rides, even in warmer temps.

Now, you won’t get flashy features here. No internal sun visor, for one. But that’s by design. Shoei kept things simple, which helps reduce weight and complexity. I actually prefer it that way. Pop in a Pinlock (usually included) to keep fog away, toss on a tinted shield, and you’re good to go.

The Silver Lining: No internal sun visor means a simpler, lighter, and quieter shell design. Plus, it encourages you to use a high-quality Pinlock insert (which often comes included!) on the main visor for unbeatable fog prevention, and you can always wear sunglasses or opt for a tinted accessory shield.

The Shoei RF-SR is for the rider who prioritizes quality, quietness, and long-haul comfort over flashy features. It’s a workhorse helmet that delivers premium performance where it counts most for touring, making that slight price jump justifiable for many.

Alternative Option: Now, if the RF-SR’s pure, full-face approach isn’t quite what you need, and you’re looking for the convenience of a modular design packed with features for serious touring, a helmet like the Bell SRT Modular Helmet is a benchmark in that category, for around $350-$400.

Shoei RF-SR Helmet (Snell approved)

$499.99

Evan rode in this helmet across America in 2022 and has worn it the tropical climate of Thailand as well. It's the ideal all-around street and touring helmet for a fair price: master of none, but great at everything. Read our long term review here.

Pros:

• Sturdy build quality from the padding to the visor
• Composite AIM shell (not plastic / polycarbonate)
• Comfortable and snug liner
• Durable (I've battered the poor thing)
• Affordable 💵

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Our Review

I have a detailed review of this specific helmet after four years of riding in it: check out our full Shoei RF-SR Helmet Review for a deeper dive into why we rate it so highly.

Scorpion EXO-AT960 Helmet: Best Budget Adventure Helmet 

(Approx. $270 – $310)

Adventure riding demands a helmet that can do it all: munch miles on the highway, explore winding backroads, and handle the dust and bumps of a trail. Finding a budget helmet that juggles these tasks well can be tricky, but the Scorpion EXO-AT960 has become a go-to favorite for a reason.

This helmet is like the Swiss Army knife of budget lids. It’s a modular design, giving you that flip-up chin bar convenience. Super handy when you stop for a photo, grab a drink, or navigate a tricky slow-speed section off-road.

It comes equipped with a removable peak (visor) to block sun glare and deflect roost from riders ahead of you on dusty trails. But here’s the clever part: you can also remove the main face shield and wear goggles, just like a dirt bike helmet, thanks to the wide eye-port. Or, remove the peak and run it like a touring helmet for better aerodynamics on long highway stretches. That versatility is its superpower.

Scorpion uses an advanced polycarbonate shell, keeping the price down while still providing DOT certification. It’s not the lightest helmet out there, partly due to the modular mechanism and peak, but the balance is decent.

Ventilation is pretty good, designed to work at both lower off-road speeds and higher road speeds. You get chin and top vents, plus rear exhausts. And yes, it includes that all-important internal drop-down sun visor, a lifesaver when transitioning between bright sun and shaded trails or tunnels.

The Silver Lining: Okay, it’s not the lightest helmet. That slight extra weight, however, can contribute to a feeling of stability, especially in crosswinds on the highway when you’re loaded up with gear. It feels planted.

The Scorpion EXO-AT960 delivers incredible versatility and features for its price point. If you’re an ADV rider looking for one helmet that can handle pretty much anything you throw at it without breaking the bank, this is likely your champion.

Alternative Option: If you prefer a non-modular ADV helmet in this price range, the Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS is a strong contender. It’s lighter, has MIPS rotational impact protection (a bonus safety feature), and great ventilation, but lacks the flip-up chin bar and internal sun visor.

ScorpionEXO AT960 Modular Adventure Street Helmet

4.4

$284.95

A do-everything helmet, it's as comfortable on trails as the highway. Shocking for a modular, it's DOT and ECE approved.

Pros:

• Modular chinbar
• DOT and ECE approved
• Big visor
• Affordable price

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Our Review

We’ve got a full review in the works, but we called it out earlier in this article: 4 Best Dirt Bike Helmets with Bluetooth (plus one to avoid!). 

AGV K3 Helmet: Best Budget Sport/Track-Inspired Helmet 

(Approx. $250 – $350)

Alright, let’s bring some Italian style and sporty performance to the budget category with the AGV K3. Now, right off the bat, we need to be clear: while the original prompt suggested this for track, and it absolutely has track inspiration, it’s crucial to understand its safety certifications, especially if you’re doing organized track days.

The AGV K3 boasts the latest ECE 22.06 safety rating. This is a rigorous European standard, updated recently to be even more comprehensive than the old 22.05.

It tests against a wider range of impact speeds and angles, including rotational forces. So, from a safety perspective, especially for the street, the K3 is packing modern, high-level protection. You’ll also find the standard DOT certification.

What you typically won’t find on the K3 is a Snell rating. Why does this matter? Many track day organizations in the US require a Snell-certified helmet (like the Scorpion EXO-R420, or the HJC i10). So, if serious track days are your primary goal, the K3 might not be the right choice unless your specific track organizer explicitly allows ECE 22.06 helmets without Snell. Always check the rules of the track day provider first! And pick up the Shoei RF-SR we wrote about earlier if you need a Snell rated helmet. 

Where the K3 excels is as a sporty street helmet that’s perfectly capable for spirited canyon carving or even your very first, more casual track day where rules might be less stringent. It inherits AGV’s racing DNA in its aerodynamic shape, designed to be stable at speed and cut through the air efficiently. You get that aggressive AGV look without the Pista GP RR price tag!

Ventilation is usually quite good on AGV sport helmets, designed to flow air effectively when you’re in a more aggressive riding posture. Expect adjustable chin and top vents with rear extractors to pull warm air out.

Comfort is solid, with AGV using quality liner materials (their Dry-Comfort fabric) that are removable and washable. The fit is often geared towards intermediate oval head shapes but can vary slightly. AGV’s eye ports are typically nice and wide, and the K3 is no exception giving you a great field of vision whether you’re navigating traffic or looking through a corner.

The visor system is usually Pinlock-ready, offering the best anti-fog performance. Visor changes are typically straightforward with AGV’s quick-release mechanisms. Depending on the specific K3 generation/variant available, it might or might not have an internal sun visor. The latest ECE 22.06 versions often omit this for simplicity and shell integrity, focusing purely on sport performance. Let’s assume the current main K3 model prioritizes the sport focus without the sun visor.

The Silver Lining: No Snell rating. While that limits its use for some track days, the ECE 22.06 certification is arguably more reflective of diverse, real-world crash scenarios, including lower-speed impacts and rotational forces. It allows AGV to create a protective helmet that might be shaped or weighted slightly differently than a Snell-focused design, potentially optimizing it better for street aerodynamics and comfort.

The AGV K3 is an excellent choice for the rider who loves sporty aesthetics and wants a high level of modern ECE-certified protection for the street. It brings that premium Italian brand feel and performance down to a much more accessible price point.

Alternative Option: If you prefer a lighter carbon fiber shell, the Sedici Duale Forged Carbon Helmet presents a different approach. You’ll trade the K3’s sport-focused styling for the Duale’s flip-up versatility and premium materials, gaining touring features, for around $350.

AGV K3 Helmet

A sleek, aerodynamic helmet built for comfort, safety, and everyday performance.

Pros:

• Excellent ventilation and wide field of vision
• Drop-down sun visor adds convenience for sunny rides
• Removable, quick-drying interior with a comfortable fit

Cons:

• Slightly heavier than some premium models

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Our Review

We haven’t completed a full, in-depth review of the latest AGV K3 model just yet. However, AGV’s reputation for quality and the K3’s position as a popular entry point into their sport lineup make it a helmet worth serious consideration for sporty street riders.

For a detailed rider experience with the AGV K3, check out this comprehensive test ride review.

Quick Comparison: Budget Helmet Showdown 

Helmet Hunting on a Budget: What to Look For

Okay, we’ve looked at some great specific helmets, but how do you choose the right one for you from all the budget options out there? Here’s what to keep in mind:

Safety First (Seriously):

• DOT: The minimum legal standard in the US. Any helmet sold for road use must have this. It tests basic impact protection.
• ECE (22.05 or 22.06): The European standard, generally considered more comprehensive than DOT, testing things like abrasion resistance and retention systems more thoroughly. ECE 22.06 is the newer, tougher version. Seeing DOT and ECE is a good sign.
• Snell (M2020 or M2025): A voluntary, stricter standard often required for track riding. It involves higher energy impacts and penetration tests. If you see Snell, you’re getting a high level of tested protection.
• Don’t Skimp: Even on a budget, make sure your helmet has at least DOT, and preferably ECE or Snell certification. This proves it passed standardized safety tests. “Budget” should never mean “unsafe.”

Fit is EVERYTHING:

• A helmet only protects you if it fits correctly. Too loose, and it can shift or come off in a crash. Too tight, and it’ll cause painful pressure points (hello, headaches!).
• Know Your Head Shape: Are you round oval, intermediate oval (most common), or long oval? Different brands and models fit different shapes better. Try helmets on whenever possible!
• Measure: Use a soft tape measure around the largest part of your head (above eyebrows, around the back) to get your size in cm or inches. Consult manufacturer size charts, but remember shape matters just as much as size.
• Check the Fit: When trying one on, it should feel snug all around with no major pressure points. It shouldn’t move much when you shake your head side-to-side or up-and-down. Check that the cheek pads are firm against your cheeks. Wear it for 15-20 minutes in the store if you can, to see if pressure points develop.

Helmet Type Matters:

• Full-Face: Offers the most coverage and protection. Ideal for most types of riding.
• Modular: Convenience of a flip-up chin bar. Great for touring and commuting, often a bit heavier and potentially noisier than full-face. Ensure it’s rated for protection with the chin bar down.
• ADV: Full-face or modular base, but with added peak, often wider eye-port for goggles, and enhanced ventilation for mixed-surface riding.
• Open-Face (3/4): Covers top, back, and sides, but leaves your face exposed. Less protection, but maximum airflow. Popular with cruiser and scooter riders.
• Half-Helmet: Minimal coverage. Offers the least protection.
• For budget recommendations focused on safety and versatility, we typically stick to Full-Face, Modular, and ADV.

Comfort Features Count (Especially on Longer Rides):

• Liner: Look for removable, washable, and moisture-wicking liners. A comfortable liner makes a huge difference.
• Ventilation: More vents usually mean better airflow, but can sometimes increase noise. Look for adjustable vents you can open or close.
• Weight: Lighter helmets generally cause less fatigue, especially on long rides. However, sometimes budget helmets achieve lower prices using heavier materials (like polycarbonate vs. fiberglass/carbon). Balance weight against features and price.
• Noise: Helmets vary wildly in how much wind noise they let in. Touring helmets often prioritize quietness. Reading reviews and looking at shell shape/features (like neck rolls) can give clues. Earplugs are always recommended!

Visor & Vision:

• Optics: Should be clear and distortion-free.
• Anti-Fog: A Pinlock-ready visor (with the insert often included or sold separately) is the best defense against fogging up. Internal sun visors should also resist fogging.
• Anti-Scratch: Most visors have some scratch resistance, but treat them carefully!
• Internal Sun Visor: Super convenient, but adds a bit of weight and complexity. Check the mechanism is easy to use with gloves.
• Field of View: Make sure you have good peripheral vision.

Save on Price, Not on Protection

Finding the right motorcycle helmet doesn’t have to mean choosing between protecting your head and protecting your bank balance. As you can see, there are some absolutely great options out there between $200 and $400 (and even below!) that deliver certified safety, great features, and comfort for your specific type of riding.

Whether it’s the convenience of the Sedici Sistema II for city streets, the refined quietness of the Shoei RF-SR for eating up highway miles, the versatility of the Scorpion EXO-AT950 for tackling any road (or trail), or the unbelievable safety-per-dollar of the Scorpion EXO-R420 for hitting the track, a great budget helmet is within reach.

The most important things? Get the right type of helmet for your riding, ensure it has the safety certifications you need, and above all, make sure it fits properly. Try them on, compare features, and pick the one that feels right for you.

Stay safe out there, enjoy the ride, and know that you made a smart choice for both your head and your wallet. See you on the road!

The post Best Budget Motorcycle Helmets That Don’t Suck (And Keep You Safe) first appeared on It's Better On The Road.

Enduro already beats you up enough. Your helmet shouldn’t make it worse.

This isn’t cruising around the neighborhood. It’s slower, hotter, more brutal in all the weird little ways that only enduro riders get. You need a lid that’s light, breathes well at low speeds, and actually stays put when the trail gets sketchy. Here’s what delivers.

Forget digging through a sea of adventure lids that fall short when the trail gets tight and technical. This guide focuses on helmets built for enduro: lightweight, well-ventilated, and ready to take a hit when it counts. By the end, you’ll know which ones actually help you stay cool, protected, and locked in from the first sketchy climb to the last brutal check-in.

Now, let’s kick over some TL:DR truths you won’t always hear when bench racing about gear:

1. That light helmet feels amazing in the shop, sure. But if its ability to manage rotational forces (you know, the head-twisting kind of impacts common in off-road spills) isn’t top-tier, it’s potentially failing you where it counts most for enduro crashes.
2. Simply counting vents is pointless. If those vents clog with mud the first time you drop it, or if they’re only designed to work at motocross track speeds (not technical singletrack pace), they aren’t doing you much good when you’re gasping for air on a tough climb.
3. Thinking any flashy MX helmet is perfect for tight woods enduro is a recipe for overheating and losing concentration fast. Enduro demands different, often more, ventilation than pure MX.
4. Replacing your helmet after a serious crash might hurt your wallet, but it’s a must. Once the EPS foam is compromised, it won’t absorb impact the way it’s designed to, and that puts you at real risk. Some high end helmets are rebuildable, however. 

Ready to find the right protection that can keep up with your enduro addiction? Let’s get dirty.

Best	Lightest	Most Ventilated
6D ATR-3	Klim F3 Carbon Pro	Bell Moto-10 Spherical
The ATR-3 stands out with its ODS impact protection, lightweight build, and excellent ventilation. NOTE: This helmet is popular and often out of stock: so check all the colorways.	The Klim F3 Carbon Pro Helmet delivers ultralight strength, cutting-edge impact protection, and all-day comfort for serious riders.	The Bell Moto-10 Spherical combines advanced safety (independent inner shell) with exceptional comfort and cooling for serious off-road riders.
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Best

6D ATR-3

The ATR-3 stands out with its ODS impact protection, lightweight build, and excellent ventilation.

NOTE: This helmet is popular and often out of stock: so check all the colorways.

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Lightest

Klim F3 Carbon Pro

The Klim F3 Carbon Pro Helmet delivers ultralight strength, cutting-edge impact protection, and all-day comfort for serious riders.

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Most Ventilated

Bell Moto-10 Spherical

The Bell Moto-10 Spherical combines advanced safety (independent inner shell) with exceptional comfort and cooling for serious off-road riders.

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Enduro Helmet Priorities: What Really Matters?

While related to motocross helmets, enduro lids have specific demands. We’ll look at picks excelling in these key areas:

• Top Tier Safety & Technology: Helmets featuring the most advanced systems for managing impact energy, especially rotational forces common in off-road crashes (like 6D’s ODS, Bell’s Spherical Technology, advanced MIPS implementations). Protection is paramount when trees and rocks are involved.
• Lightweight Champions: Enduro is exhausting. Shaving grams off your head reduces fatigue significantly over a long day of technical riding, allowing you to stay focused longer. These helmets prioritize low weight without major safety compromises.
• Ventilation Kings / Best Value: Helmets that offer exceptional airflow, especially at lower speeds, combined with solid protection and features, often at a more accessible price point. Keeping cool is critical for endurance and focus.

Let’s check out some specific helmets that deliver for enduro riders.

6D ATR-3: Protection & Rebuildable Design 

If safety is your number one priority, the 6D ATR-3 is a helmet you need to have on your radar. 6D has been leading the charge on rotational impact protection for years with their Omni-Directional Suspension system, and the ATR-3 takes it to the next level. It’s still a helmet-within-a-helmet setup, but now it’s lighter, more compact, and better ventilated thanks to a full 3K carbon fiber shell and a redesigned liner system.

The old ATR-2 had a reputation for feeling a little bulky. The ATR-3 fixes that. It looks and feels way closer to a normal dirt lid, and you can actually move around without feeling like a bobblehead. Ventilation is legit, with ten intake and five exhaust vents pulling air through even when you are just picking your way through a slow, technical section. The fit is an intermediate oval and runs true to size, but the cheek pads are a little snug at first. They break in after a few rides. They also added nice touches like a magnetic D-ring strap keeper, hydration tube ports, and pockets for your comms speakers if you run those.

One of the best parts is that the ATR-3 is rebuildable. If you take a digger and compress the EPS, 6D can rebuild the inner parts for a few hundred bucks instead of you having to trash the whole helmet. For anyone who rides hard and knows that tip-overs are part of the game, that alone makes the investment easier to swallow.

The Catch? It is still a premium-priced helmet, and while it is lighter than the ATR-2, it is not the featherweight champ of the dirt world. A medium tips the scales at about 2 pounds 14 ounces. Also, while it meets FIM standards for pro racing, it does not have the sticker because 6D wanted to keep the price from creeping up even more.

Silver Lining: The ATR-3 gives you serious tech where it matters, especially for the low-speed crashes and awkward falls that are a fact of life on the trail. It is slimmer, cooler, lighter, and flat-out better than before. If you are serious about keeping your head in the game, it is a helmet worth every penny.

Alternative Option: Bell’s Moto-10 Spherical offers a different, also highly advanced approach to rotational impact management (Spherical Technology powered by MIPS) at a similar premium level.

6D ATR-3 Dirt Helmet

The ATR-3 stands out with its ODS impact protection, lightweight build, and excellent ventilation.

NOTE: This helmet is popular and often out of stock: so check all the colorways.

Pros:

• ODS Impact absorption system
• Lightweight (under 3 lbs)
• Air-Gap ventilation system
• Drink tube compatible
• Rebuildable after crashes
• FIM safety rating (for off-road)

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Our Review: The 6D helmets are seriously impressive, packing the kind of protection enduro riding demands. We’re looking forward to putting one through its paces on the trail for a proper long-term test.

Bell Moto-10 Spherical: Cutting-Edge Protection, Premium Feel 

Bell threw everything they had into the Moto-10 Spherical, collaborating with MIPS to create their flagship off-road helmet. The core technology here is Spherical Technology™, which works like a ball-and-socket joint. An outer liner rotates around an inner liner during a crash, redirecting rotational impact forces away from the brain.

The Spherical Technology allows that crucial slip plane movement, aiming to reduce the forces that can cause serious injury. Bell pairs this with a segmented 3k carbon shell for strength and lightweight. The result is a helmet that feels incredibly secure and protective, meeting stringent ECE 22.06, DOT, and SNELL standards.

Ventilation is a major focus, with the Thermal Exchange Airflow System (T.E.A.S.) designed to suck in cool air and expel hot air efficiently, even during demanding, lower-speed enduro sections. The large eyeport provides excellent goggle fit and peripheral vision. Inside, the CoolJade liner feels premium and helps manage heat, and the Magnefusion™ emergency-release magnetic cheek pads are a clever touch for quick, safe removal. Bell also paid attention to details like the Flying Bridge Visor with side air intakes and a breakaway design.

The Catch? It sits at the very top of the price ladder. While ventilation is excellent, some riders might find ultra-ventilated helmets like the Klim F3/F5 even breezier at very low speeds. 

Silver Lining: You get a state-of-the-art rotational impact system (Spherical/MIPS) in a beautifully crafted, lightweight carbon shell with premium features, excellent ventilation, and top-tier safety certifications. It’s pro-level gear for serious riders. 

Alternative Option: The 6D ATR-3 brings their updated ODS tech and all the impact protection enduro riders expect, with the bonus of rebuildability after a crash. If you’re after a top-tier lid that takes safety seriously, it’s worth a hard look. Another high-end option is the Alpinestars Supertech M10, which combines advanced MIPS with a multi-composite shell for serious performance and comfort.

Bell Moto-10 Spherical Helmet

Bell’s most advanced dirt bike helmet, the Moto-10 Spherical, delivers top-tier impact protection, airflow, and pro-level comfort for serious riders.

Pros:

• Spherical Mips® tech for superior safety
• Excellent ventilation system
• Comfortable, cooling liner with easy-to-remove cheek pads

Cons:

• Expensive
• Slightly heavy
• Snug fit may need break-in

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Our Review: The Moto-10 is Bell’s top dog for a reason. We’re eager to compare its Spherical tech against ODS. Stay tuned to It’s Better On The Road for updates.

Klim F3 Carbon Pro ECE Helmet: Lightweight Ventilation 

When you’re hours into a grueling enduro, every ounce on your head feels like a pound. Klim understands this, and the F3 Carbon Pro is engineered to be incredibly lightweight while maximizing airflow, making it a favorite among riders who prioritize comfort and fatigue reduction during long, hot days.

The first thing you notice is the weight, or rather, the lack of it. The hand-laid carbon fiber shell keeps the grams to an absolute minimum. This directly translates to less neck strain, allowing you to stay focused on picking lines through technical terrain rather than battling fatigue. It’s one of the lightest certified helmets available.

The F3 Carbon Pro is renowned for its ventilation. Klim designed the extensive network of intake and exhaust vents to work efficiently even at lower speeds encountered in tight singletrack. You can literally feel the air moving across your scalp, helping to keep you cool and reduce sweat buildup when you’re working hard. The interior padding is comfortable, moisture-wicking (using Klimatek™ fabric), and designed to complement the airflow. The latest “Pro ECE” version meets the ECE 22.06 standard, adding modern safety cred.

The Catch? While meeting ECE 22.06, it uses a more traditional EPS liner without the complex rotational systems of the 6D or Bell Moto-10 (though some versions may incorporate MIPS – check specific model). Its primary focus is weight and airflow, potentially sacrificing the absolute cutting edge in impact tech compared to the top-tier safety helmets. Can be noisy due to the high airflow. 

Silver Lining: Offers an exceptional combination of ultra-low weight and class-leading ventilation, drastically reducing fatigue and improving comfort during demanding enduro rides, while still meeting rigorous safety standards. 

Alternative Option: The Leatt Moto 9.5 Carbon is another lightweight carbon helmet, often bundled with goggles, featuring Leatt’s Turbine 360 rotational protection system.

Klim F3 Carbon Pro

The Klim F3 Carbon Pro Helmet delivers ultralight strength, cutting-edge impact protection, and all-day comfort for serious riders.

Pros:

• Hand-laid carbon fiber shell and Koroyd® technology for superior lightweight impact protection
• High-efficiency ventilation system with 19 vents keeps you cool on long rides
• Fidlock® quick-release strap and antimicrobial liner enhance comfort and ease of use

Cons:

• Premium features come at a higher price point compared to similar helmets

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Our Review: Klim gear is built for demanding conditions, and the F3 Carbon Pro excels in heat and long rides. We’ll come with a full review in the future.

Leatt Moto 7.5 Helmet (with Goggles): Smart Safety & Value Bundle 

Getting properly kitted out for enduro can be expensive. Leatt offers a compelling package with the Moto 7.5 helmet, which not only includes their Turbine 360° rotational impact protection system but often comes bundled with a pair of high-quality Leatt Velocity goggles – an awesome value proposition.

The Turbine 360° system uses small, energy-absorbing discs embedded in the EPS foam. These are designed to deform and rotate during an impact, reducing both direct impact forces and rotational acceleration transferred to the brain. It’s Leatt’s answer to MIPS and other rotational systems, offering advanced protection at a mid-range price point. The injected polymer shell keeps costs down while meeting DOT and ECE standards.

Ventilation is very good, with large channels designed to work effectively even at lower speeds. The Dri-Lex liner is comfortable, moisture-wicking, and washable. The eyeport is wide and designed for optimal goggle fit (especially their own). Having quality goggles included in the box saves you money and ensures perfect compatibility right away.

The Catch? The polymer shell makes it heavier than the premium carbon helmets. While the Turbine 360° tech is great, some might prefer the more established MIPS or the unique ODS/Spherical systems. The included goggles might not be everyone’s preferred model, though they are generally well-regarded. 

Silver Lining: You get an advanced rotational impact protection system (Turbine 360°), good ventilation, comfortable liner, and a pair of quality goggles included, all at a very competitive mid-range price. Outstanding value for enduro riders. 

Alternative Option: The Fox Racing V3 RS (mentioned below) offers MIPS Integra Split protection and premium features like a carbon composite shell at a higher price point but is seen as a strong value within the upper-mid tier.

Leatt Moto 7.5 V24

The Leatt Moto 7.5 V24 Helmet Kit offers serious protection, comfort, and value—complete with 4.5 goggles included.

Pros:

• Advanced 360° Turbine safety tech
• Cool, comfortable, and neck brace-friendly
• Great bundle value

Cons:

• Heavier than carbon fiber helmets

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Our Review: The Leatt 7.5 is a smart pick for riders looking for both safety and value. We plan to put it to the test soon.

Fox Racing V3 RS Helmet: Feature-Packed Performance 

Fox Racing has long been a major player in off-road gear, and the V3 RS helmet packs many of their top technologies into a package that offers excellent performance for the price, making it a favorite for serious amateurs and weekend warriors.

Safety is a key focus, featuring the MIPS® Integra Split impact protection system. This integrates the low-friction layer between two layers of Varizorb™ dual-density EPS foam, designed to manage rotational forces effectively. The shell itself is a Multi Composite Technology (MCT) construction blending carbon and FRP resins for light weight and strength. It also includes features like emergency release cheek pads and a carbon fiber D-ring fastener.

Ventilation is strong, with multiple intake and exhaust vents designed for high airflow. The Ionic+® moisture-wicking liner helps keep you comfortable and fights odor. One standout feature is the Magnetic Visor Release System (MVRS™). The visor is held on by magnets, designed to detach easily in a crash to potentially reduce snagging and rotational forces, but stay put during normal riding, a clever safety and convenience feature. The eyeport is large and accommodates modern goggles well.

The Catch? While featuring advanced MIPS, it doesn’t have the unique ODS or Spherical systems of the absolute top-tier helmets. Price is upper-mid range, more than budget options. Some riders have mixed opinions on the MVRS visor’s security in heavy roost or branch hits compared to traditional screws (though generally well-liked). 

Silver Lining: Delivers a lightweight composite shell, advanced MIPS Integra Split protection, excellent ventilation, premium liner materials, and the innovative MVRS visor system, offering pro-level features at a price below the absolute top flagships. 

Alternative Option: The Shoei VFX-EVO delivers that classic Shoei quality with a focus on comfort, durability, and solid ventilation, key for long, demanding enduro rides.

Fox Racing V3 RS Carbon Helmet

Premium pro-level helmet with carbon fiber strength and race-ready features.

Pros:

• Ultra-light 4K carbon shell with Mips® safety system
• Hydration routing and speaker-ready design
• Comes with spare parts for a custom fit

Cons:

• Lacks the comfort and ventilation of higher end enduro helmets

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We may earn commissions if you make a purchase. This keeps our site ad-free and never sponsored.

Our Review: The Fox V3 RS blends tech and performance well. We’re putting it through its paces and will come back with a thorough review soon. 

Comparison Table 

Note: Weights are approximate and vary significantly by size/spec. Price ranges are relative.

Buying Guide: Choosing Your Enduro Helmet

Picking the right enduro helmet isn’t like buying a street lid. Here’s what to prioritize:

1. Rotational Impact Protection (CRITICAL): Enduro crashes often involve tumbling and twisting forces. Look for advanced systems designed to manage this like MIPS, 6D’s ODS, Bell’s Spherical, and Leatt’s Turbine 360°. More on each below.
2. Ventilation (Sweat Management): Enduro = Hard work + heat. You need MASSIVE airflow, especially vents designed to work at lower speeds found in technical terrain. Look for large intake ports, deep internal channels, and effective exhaust vents. Testimonials highlight which helmets truly excel here (Klim F3/F5, Leatt).
3. Weight & Balance: Lighter reduces fatigue over long rides. Carbon fiber helps, but check total weights. Balance is also key, a well-balanced helmet feels lighter. Try it on if possible.
4. Goggle Compatibility: The eyeport needs to be large enough to accommodate your preferred goggles without restricting vision and allow a good seal to keep dust out. Some helmets are designed around specific goggle brands/shapes.
5. Safety Certifications: DOT is the minimum US standard. ECE 22.06 is the newer, more rigorous European standard becoming widely adopted, look for it. SNELL adds another layer of impact testing relevant to some off-road scenarios. FIM is primarily for high-level racing.
6. Fit & Liner: Must be snug and secure, no movement. Cheek pads should be firm initially (they break in). Liner needs to be comfortable, highly moisture-wicking, antimicrobial, and easily removable/washable (it will get disgusting).
7. Chin Bar & Visor: Ensure a strong, protective chin bar. Look for visors designed to break away in a crash (like Fox MVRS or those using plastic screws) to potentially reduce snagging/rotation.
8. The Single Impact Rule & Rebuildability: Remember, certified helmets are designed for ONE significant impact. After that, the protective EPS foam is compromised. If you crash often (and who doesn’t in enduro?), the unique rebuildable design of the 6D ATR-2 can offer significant long-term value and peace of mind, saving you from buying a whole new helmet after every hard hit.

Rotational Impact Protection Systems:

• MIPS: The most common system, a low-friction layer allowing slight movement between shell and liner. Comes in various integrations (Standard, Integra, etc.).
• 6D ODS: The helmet-within-helmet suspension system, excellent at low-threshold and rotational impacts.
• Bell Spherical: Ball-and-socket design powered by MIPS.
• Leatt Turbine 360°: Energy-absorbing discs providing rotational damping.

Choosing an enduro helmet means prioritizing protection against the specific risks of off-road riding, managing heat and fatigue with ventilation and low weight, and ensuring clear vision through your goggles. Invest wisely. 

Ride hard, stay safe!

The post Best Enduro Helmets for Trail Abuse, Tested first appeared on It's Better On The Road.

When you’re hitting apexes on a track, you don’t have an ounce of focus to spend on anything but hitting that corner. No room for distractions. 

The Shoei X-Spirit III is a lid that completely gets out of your way and let’s you do what you do best: speed. 

Stick with me, and you’ll understand exactly why this helmet commands its price tag and whether it’s the missing piece for your high-performance riding puzzle.

Now, let me throw a few things out there that might sound a bit odd at first. 

Rather watch this review? Here’s our full breakdown in video form:

This helmet, designed with input from guys like Marc Marquez, isn’t necessarily the absolute quietest lid you can buy, and honestly? For the track, that might be a hidden advantage. 

Also, while everyone chases the lightest helmet, the X-Spirit III proves that stability often trumps shedding every last gram. 

And yes, the price is steep, but investing less might actually cost you more in the long run – in terms of fatigue, confidence, and lap times.

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Shoei X-15 Helmet	Shoei X-SPR Pro
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USA Version

Shoei X-15 Helmet

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UK Version

Shoei X-SPR Pro

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My Journey to the X-Spirit III

I’m a supermoto guy with two Ducatis in the garage, and I ride pretty much every day: whether it’s navigating city traffic, carving up mountain roads, or hitting the local track for some much-needed speed therapy.

Over the years, I’ve gone through more helmets than I can count. From budget-friendly options early on (we all start somewhere, right?) to mid-range lids and eventually, the top-tier stuff. I’ve worn Arais, AGVs, HJCs, you name it. Some were comfy but felt like sails at speed. Others were light but noisy. Finding that perfect blend of track-ready performance and everyday usability felt like a constant quest.

The X-Spirit III balances these well. 

After taking it around town and on the track, here’s what I can say about this lid. 

What I Absolutely Love

This helmet gets so much right, especially for its intended audience.

Looks and Finish

Let’s face it, we want our gear to look good. Shoei nails this. The X-Spirit III has an aggressive, purposeful stance. The variety of graphics, from the stunning Marquez replicas to more subtle designs, means there’s likely a look that resonates with your bike, leathers, or personal style.

The paint quality and finish are top-notch, holding up well to the inevitable bugs and minor road debris. It just looks like a premium piece of kit, because it is.

Aerodynamic Stability

This is the headliner. The work Shoei put into the wind tunnel testing, the rear stabilizer flaps (yes, you can swap between two types – a wider one for straight-line stability and a narrower one for more head movement), and the overall shape pays off massively.

At high speeds, particularly on faired sportbikes, the reduction in buffeting and lift compared to many other helmets is substantial. This translates directly to less neck fatigue and, more importantly, increased focus and confidence. You’re fighting the track, not your helmet.

Customizable Fit

This is huge. No two heads are exactly alike. Shoei offers different thickness cheek pads and center pads (the X-Spirit III system actually has six individually exchangeable center pad sections). This allows you to tailor the fit precisely to your head shape.

It might take a bit of experimenting (or a fitting session at a good dealer), but achieving that perfect, snug-but-not-painful fit makes a world of difference in comfort and safety. That initial tightness I mentioned? It breaks in, but being able to fine-tune it accelerates the process and ensures long-term comfort.

Track-Focused Vision

The CWR-F flat shield combined with the ability to adjust the liner’s angle (rotating it slightly forward for a better view in a tuck) is brilliant. Peripheral vision is excellent, crucial for spotting markers and other riders on track. The shield itself is optically superb, distortion-free, and the double lock mechanism ensures it stays shut, even at serious speeds. Plus, the Pinlock EVO insert covers nearly the entire viewport, banishing fog effectively.

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Shoei X-15 Helmet	Shoei X-SPR Pro
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USA Version

Shoei X-15 Helmet

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UK Version

Shoei X-SPR Pro

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The Not-So-Perfect Bits (and Why They’re Okay)

No product is perfect, and the X-Spirit III has a few points worth considering.

The Price Tag

Okay, let’s get the big one out of the way. This helmet is expensive. There’s no sugar-coating it. It sits at the very top of the market price-wise. However (here’s the silver lining), you are paying for genuine MotoGP-derived technology, exceptional build quality, FIM homologation (on some models, check specifically), advanced aerodynamics, and a highly customizable fit. 

Think of it as an investment in your safety, comfort, and performance. A cheaper helmet might save money upfront, but if it causes fatigue, limits focus, or needs replacing sooner, is it really cheaper? 

For serious track riders or those who demand the best stability, the cost starts to make sense when weighed against the benefits. If the price is an absolute barrier, the HJC RPHA 1 offers FIM certification at a lower cost, albeit perhaps without the same level of refinement or aero development as the Shoei.

Initial Tightness & Break-In

This helmet is designed to be snug. Race fit means secure fit. When you first put it on, especially if you’re used to more relaxed touring helmets, it can feel quite tight, particularly around the cheeks. The silver lining is twofold: first, this ensures the helmet stays put during aggressive riding or, worse, in an impact. 

Second, the high-quality padding does break in and conform to your head shape over time. Using the customizable pads can also alleviate specific pressure points. Patience and perhaps some fine-tuning with pads are key here.

Wind Noise (with Vents Open)

While the aerodynamics manage airflow around the helmet incredibly well, channeling air through it via the vents inevitably creates some noise. With all vents open on a hot day, especially on a naked bike or behind a short screen, the X-Spirit III is not whisper quiet. It’s not deafeningly loud like some budget lids, but you’ll hear the wind. 

The silver lining here is that this is a direct trade-off for excellent ventilation. That airflow keeping you cool and focused on a scorching track day generates some noise. 

Most track riders and many performance street riders wear earplugs anyway, which largely negates this issue. If maximum quietness is your absolute priority over aggressive aero and ventilation, a touring-focused helmet like the Shoei GT-Air III or Schuberth C5 might be a better fit, but you’ll sacrifice the X-Spirit III’s track credentials.

Need-to-Knows

Sizing: Shoei helmets generally run true to size, but given the customizable nature and the importance of a perfect fit for a race helmet, trying one on is highly recommended. Don’t just guess based on your old helmet brand. The head shape is generally considered intermediate oval.

FIM Homologation: While developed directly from MotoGP tech, check the specific model and size for FIM homologation if that’s a requirement for your race series. Not all versions automatically carry it.

Adjustable Liner: Don’t overlook this feature! Taking the time to switch it to the “race” position (tilting it forward 4 degrees) genuinely improves vision when tucked. It’s a simple adjustment but makes a noticeable difference.

E.Q.R.S.: The Emergency Quick Release System allows emergency responders to remove the cheek pads easily, potentially reducing neck strain when taking the helmet off after an accident. It’s a safety feature you hope never to use, but it’s reassuring to know it’s there. Just remember not to use the red E.Q.R.S. tabs for routine cleaning!

MotoGP Pedigree: Knowing that riders like Marc Marquez (an 8-time World Champ!) rely on this helmet technology week-in, week-out adds a certain confidence. It’s developed and proven at the absolute highest level of the sport.

How It Stacks Up: The Competition

The X-Spirit III plays in the premier league. Here’s how it compares to its main rivals:

VS Arai Corsair-X

Often seen as the Shoei’s arch-nemesis. The Arai typically caters to a slightly rounder head shape compared to the Shoei’s intermediate oval. It’s renowned for its plush comfort and smooth, organic shell shape (R75 concept). 

Ventilation is excellent, but its aero might feel slightly less aggressive or stable at extreme speeds compared to the X-Spirit III’s dedicated wings and stabilizers. Build quality is impeccable on both. 

Choosing between them often comes down to head shape, comfort preference, and whether you prioritize ultimate stability (Shoei) or plushness and Arai’s specific safety philosophy (Arai).

Arai Corsair-X Helmet

Top-tier racing helmet with premium safety, ventilation, and comfort.

Pros:

• Superior impact protection with PB SNC2 shell
• Excellent ventilation with adjustable diffuser system
• Wide, clear view with Pinlock-ready VAS shield

Cons:

• High price point compared to competitors

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VS AGV Pista GP RR

This is the hardcore, uncompromising Italian track weapon. Often lighter than the Shoei and Arai, it boasts aggressive MotoGP styling and fantastic ventilation. However, it generally fits a narrower head shape, can be significantly louder, and offers less versatility for road riding. 

It’s the choice for the MotoGP purist who wants the absolute closest thing to what Rossi or Bagnaia wear, prioritizing track performance above all else, including comfort and noise suppression.

AGV Pista GP RR Helmet

The pinnacle of race helmet engineering, this lid is used to protect the heads of some of the most famous athletes in motorcycle history.

Pros:

• 100% carbon fiber
• Secure visor lock system
• Pinlock included and tear-off ready
• Literally used in MotoGP

Cons:

• Very expensive
• Not commuter-friendly
• High wind noise

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VS HJC RPHA 1N

HJC burst onto the top-tier scene with this FIM-homologated helmet. It offers incredible value, packing in features and safety certification often found on much pricier lids. It’s a solid performer on track, reasonably light, and comes in various race replica graphics. 

Where it might fall slightly short of the Shoei is in the ultimate levels of aerodynamic refinement, the feel of the interior materials, and the sheer breadth of fit customization options Shoei provides. It’s the smart choice for budget-conscious track riders or racers who need FIM approval without the absolute premium price.

HJC RPHA 1N

MotoGP-level helmet with race-ready design, protection, and ventilation.

Pros:

• FIM certified for top-tier impact protection
• Advanced ventilation keeps you cool under pressure
• Lightweight carbon shell with moisture-wicking liner

Cons:

• Limited graphic and color options

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The Final Verdict

So, after countless miles on road and track, what’s the takeaway?

The Shoei X-Spirit III is an exceptional piece of equipment. The combination of stunning looks, world-class aerodynamic stability, fantastic track visibility, and that brilliant customizable fit system makes it a top contender for any serious sportbike or track rider. It inspires confidence when you’re pushing hard, reducing fatigue and allowing you to focus purely on your riding.

Yes, it’s expensive. Yes, it’s snug initially. And yes, you’ll want earplugs for maximum comfort. But these are calculated trade-offs for its incredible performance envelope.

This helmet is tailor-made for riders who spend significant time on track or demand the utmost stability during aggressive street riding on high-performance bikes. If you prioritize a plush, quiet touring experience or need an internal sun visor, this isn’t your helmet. 

But if you want a helmet that feels like an extension of yourself when leaning into a 120mph corner, providing unwavering stability and a clear view of your apex, the X-Spirit III delivers in spades. It’s a professional-level tool available to dedicated riders, and for that audience, it’s worth every penny.

USA Version	UK Version
Shoei X-15 Helmet	Shoei X-SPR Pro
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USA Version

Shoei X-15 Helmet

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UK Version

Shoei X-SPR Pro

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The post Shoei X-Spirit III Review: MotoGP Tech for Track Day Warriors first appeared on It's Better On The Road.

When you’re chasing your line, a shaky lid or a fogged visor can throw you off – not just endangering lap times, but your life. 

I found that out at speed last summer. My old lid started catching wind on the straights and felt like it was trying to rip off my head. Ten minutes in and I was cooked, backing off. 

That day made it clear: the right helmet lets you stay focused and actually enjoy the ride, not fight through it.

This is an example of why your helmet can’t be an afterthought. It needs to be stable and cool. The right lid frees you up to focus on what matters: the line, the throttle, the next apex. 

Forget just looking fast – comfort and safety are top priorities. This guide is about helmets that actually help you ride better, whether you’re chasing lap times or carving your favorite canyon.

Now, let’s cut through the noise with a few hard truths debated in paddocks and forums everywhere:

• The most expensive helmet on the grid isn’t automatically the best choice for your specific needs or head shape. Fit and function beat price tags and fancy paint.
• That hardcore ‘race replica’ might actually hinder aggressive street riding with its compromises on noise and low-speed comfort. Balance is key unless you only ride track.
• Simply counting vents is meaningless for cooling. How they work with aerodynamics at speed is what truly matters when you’re tucked in and working hard.
• Obsessing only over the lightest weight ignores a potentially bigger factor for high-speed riding: aerodynamic stability. Fighting head-shake is exhausting.

Intrigued? Good. Let’s find the helmet that truly complements your machine and your need for speed.

Street vs. Track: Choosing Your Weapon

While all sport bike helmets prioritize performance, there’s a difference between a lid optimized for canyon carving and one built for shaving seconds off lap times. We’ve split our picks into two main camps:

• Best Sport Helmets for the Street: These helmets offer a fantastic blend of performance, comfort, and practicality for high-performance road riding. They typically feature great aerodynamics for highway speeds, effective ventilation, good visibility, plusher interiors, and relatively lower noise levels compared to pure track helmets. They provide excellent protection (often ECE 22.06 rated) but might forgo the absolute extremes of track-specific features for better all-around usability.
• Best Sport Helmets for the Track: Safety and high-speed performance are paramount here. These helmets usually boast FIM homologation (the highest racing standard), aggressive aerodynamics optimized for a full tuck, maximum airflow designed for intense exertion, and often a tighter, race-oriented fit. Features like hydration tube routing and tear-off posts are common. Noise reduction and low-speed comfort are generally secondary considerations.

Let’s dive into our top recommendations for each category.

Best Sport Helmets for the Street

These helmets provide the stability, ventilation, and protection needed for spirited street riding, without the hardcore compromises of pure race lids.

Shoei RF-1400: The Refined All-Rounder

While often categorized under sport-touring, the Shoei RF-1400’s capabilities firmly place it as a top contender for sporty street riding. It blends Shoei’s legendary comfort and refinement with seriously effective aerodynamics and ventilation that work brilliantly outside the track environment.

Compared to the old RF-1200 (which was kind of a gold standard for years), the RF-1400 tightens things up across the board. The shell shape has been tuned for better aerodynamics, with less lift, less drag, and way less of that annoying buffeting at speed. It just feels stable, even when the wind picks up. Shoei added a bit of weight over the 1200, but you’d never notice it in the saddle. The balance is dialed.

What really stands out for me is the comfort. The liner is soft without being squishy, and the cheek pads hug your face in a way that feels secure, not suffocating. Fit is intermediate oval, so it works for a lot of riders. I’d say a good 80 percent of folks will feel at home in this thing. I appreciate how snug it feels around the cheeks, especially on longer rides. It doesn’t shift or flex when you’re head-checking or dealing with crosswinds.

Ventilation has been improved too. The new top vents actually flow air, and the back exhaust is larger, which helps pull heat out of the shell. Even in warmer weather, I haven’t felt like I’m baking inside it. The chin vent is easier to use with gloves, and the whole system feels more streamlined than the previous version.

The visor system also got a solid upgrade. Shoei introduced the CWR-F2 shield on this model, which gives you a nice, wide field of view and comes with a Pinlock insert right in the box. That’s clutch on foggy mornings or humid days. Visibility is crystal clear, no weird distortions at the edges. The center locking tab isn’t my favorite. It takes a bit more effort to pop open, especially with gloves, but it’s a small tradeoff for the overall quality.

The Catch? It lacks the ultimate track-focused features like FIM rating or extreme spoilers found on race replicas. Some riders might prefer the slightly sportier look or potentially lighter weight of competitors. No internal sun visor. 

Silver Lining: You get near-track-level stability and ventilation combined with class-leading comfort, quietness (relatively speaking for a sport helmet), and build quality. It’s arguably the best blend for riders who spend most of their time riding fast on public roads. Also, the RF-1400 ranks as our #1 Quietest Helmet.

Alternative Option: For riders on a lower budget, the Bell Qualifier DLX MIPS is a popular choice that punches above its weight. It has a MIPS liner for less rotational injury risk in a crash, and it uses a convenient Transitions photochromic shield (changes tint with exterior light conditions) instead of an internal sun visor. Since it’s only a basic polycarbonate shell, it’s at a much more accessible price point than the RF-1400, though with expected differences in overall refinement and high-speed aerodynamic performance.

Shoei RF-1400 Street Helmet

$649.99

One of the top motorcycle helmets for street riding due to its incredible safety ratings, solid build construction, versatile shell for street and track riding, and reasonable price. Long term review here.

Pros:

• Staff pick at Revzilla
• Excellent build quality
• Thick noise-sealing cheekpads
• Airtight visor seal

Cons:

• Slightly snug out of the box—needs break-in

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Our Review: The RF-1400 is a benchmark for a reason. We have a review up from Carl on the site, check it out! 

AGV K6S: The Lightweight Street Weapon

If you prioritize shedding grams without sacrificing sporty performance and safety on the street, the AGV K6S is a standout. Building on the success of the K6, the ‘S’ version adds an integrated rear spoiler for enhanced aerodynamics, making this already featherlight helmet even more stable at speed.

The first thing you notice is the lack of weight. The carbon-aramid fiber shell makes the K6S feel incredibly light on your head, reducing neck fatigue significantly during spirited riding or longer journeys. We’ve rounded up the lightest full-face helmets — and the AGV K6S tops the list!

This lightness translates to a feeling of agility, letting you flick the bike side-to-side with less effort. The added spoiler helps keep things planted when you pick up the pace, reducing lift and improving stability compared to less aero-focused lids.

The interior is plush and comfortable, using high-quality Ritmo and Shalimar fabrics that feel great against the skin and manage moisture well. AGV offers different fit profiles, accommodating various head shapes. Visibility is excellent, with a wide Class 1 Optic visor ensuring a clear, distortion-free view. Ventilation is effective, providing good airflow through five adjustable front vents and a rear extractor. It meets the stringent ECE 22.06 safety standard.

The Catch? While stable, the aero might not be as aggressively optimized for triple-digit speeds as dedicated track helmets. Some riders find AGV helmets can run slightly noisier than comparable Shoeis. No internal sun visor (though AGV offers tinted visors). 

Silver Lining: You get an exceptionally lightweight, comfortable helmet with enhanced aerodynamics and top-tier safety certifications, making it feel incredibly agile and reducing fatigue on sporty street rides. It looks sharp and feels premium. 

Alternative Option: The Scorpion EXO-R1 Air Carbon offers another very lightweight carbon option, often at a lower price, with the added benefit of the AirFit customizable cheek pads.

AGV K6 S Helmet

A lightweight and aerodynamic helmet designed for ultimate comfort and protection, inspired by MotoGP technology.

Pros:

• Featherlight carbon-aramid shell for reduced fatigue
• Expansive field of view with anti-fog Pinlock lens
• The lightest full face around

Cons:

• Premium price tag

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Our Review: The K6S impressed us with its blend of lightness and performance. We’re aiming for a detailed comparison on It’s Better On The Road soon. 

Best Sport Helmets for the Track

When safety margins shrink and speeds climb, these helmets provide the ultimate in protection, stability, and features designed for the racetrack.

Shoei X-15: Track-Focused, Rider-Refined

If you’re serious about track days, this is the kind of helmet that earns its place in your gear bag. The Shoei X-15 is the top-tier race helmet in Shoei’s lineup, and everything about it screams performance. Developed with input from MotoGP riders like Márquez and tested at triple-digit speeds, this lid is built to deliver when you’re on the gas, tucked in, and focused on hitting every apex.

There’s a reason racers trust it – the X-15 just feels right when the pace ramps up. Shoei reworked the shell for better aerodynamics, less lift, less drag, and improved stability, especially when braking hard or hanging off the bike. Even compared to the outgoing X-14, this thing feels more planted. You’re not fighting your helmet, and that translates to more focus and less fatigue through a session.

The ventilation system was clearly designed with race pace in mind. At lower speeds, it’s nothing crazy, but get moving, and it starts dumping air through the five intake vents, with airflow channeling through the EPS liner and even the cheek pads. This helps you stay cooler and more alert, even on hot days. Shoei also added space up front for a hydration setup, which is huge if you’re doing long stints or endurance racing.

Visibility got a major upgrade too. The new CWR-F2R shield has a taller eyeport and wider view, which makes a difference when you’re fully tucked and looking up through the top of the visor. The optical clarity is excellent, the Pinlock insert is larger than before, and tear-off posts come standard. The locking mechanism has been beefed up too—there’s now a triple-lock system to make sure that visor stays down, no matter what.

The fit and feel are classic Shoei, but with more adjustability than ever. The Max-Dry liner is comfortable, sweat-wicking, and customizable. Shoei added velcro-based micro adjustments and layered foam pads that let you fine-tune the crown fit for a snug, race-ready feel without pressure points. It stays put, even under heavy head movement or when you’re tucked in and moving around the bike.

The Catch?  It’s loud. That’s to be expected from a helmet with this much airflow and aggressive shaping. You’ll definitely want earplugs. And while it’s one of the most refined race helmets out there, it’s not built for cruising or commuting. The ventilation and aerodynamics are made for high speeds.

Silver Lining: You’re getting arguably the most refined FIM-homologated helmet available, blending cutting-edge aero and safety with exceptional build quality and fit customization. It inspires confidence and performs flawlessly on track. 

Alternative Option: The Alpinestars Supertech R10 offers a fresh contender in the premium track helmet space. With its race-focused design, advanced aerodynamics, and MotoGP pedigree, it’s built for high-speed performance. While newer to the scene than some rivals, it’s quickly gaining attention among riders who want cutting-edge protection and tech without compromising on style.

Shoei X-15 Marquez 8 Helmet

The Shoei X-15 was honed on the track for an aerodynamically refined racing helmet designed for ultimate speed and performance. Available in many colorways, including ones sported by Marc Marquez himself!

Pros:

• Enhanced aerodynamics with reduced drag and lift
• Advanced ventilation system with optimized airflow
• Included Pinlock and posts for tear-offs

Cons:

• Premium price point

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Our Review: The X-15 is a proven performer at the highest levels, and we have a long term review of the older UK version (the X-Spirit III) by our contributor HyperMotardKing. A long-term track test is planned. For now, you can check our rundown of Shoei helmets.

AGV Pista GP RR: The Purebred Racer

For riders prioritizing absolute aerodynamic performance and MotoGP pedigree above all else, the AGV Pista GP RR remains the icon. It’s FIM-homologated and designed with a singular focus: to be as stable and efficient as possible when cutting through the air at extreme speeds.

The Pista GP RR’s aggressive shape and prominent biplano rear spoiler are instantly recognizable and incredibly effective. In a full tuck, this helmet provides unparalleled stability, minimizing buffeting and allowing the rider to conserve energy and maintain focus. It feels like it becomes one with the airflow at speed. The 100% carbon fiber shell keeps weight incredibly low.

The huge Ultravision Class 1 Optic visor gives an expansive view, critical for track awareness. The metal vents flow enormous amounts of air,  essential for cooling during demanding race conditions, and it comes hydration-system ready. The race-focused interior provides a very snug, secure fit designed specifically to prevent movement at speed, tunable with AGV’s adaptive fit system.

The Catch? The price is astronomical (no wonder it made it into our list of Most Expensive Motorcycle Helmets). Also, it is extremely loud by design. The ventilation requires high speed to be truly effective. The uncompromising race fit isn’t suitable for casual riding, and the build can feel less plush than the Shoei. 

Silver Lining: You get a helmet engineered with MotoGP-level technology for maximum aerodynamic stability and safety on track. It’s a specialized tool for racers and serious track day riders seeking the ultimate edge. 

Alternative Option: The HJC RPHA 1N provides FIM-homologated performance with excellent aero and ventilation at a significantly lower price point, though perhaps without the ultimate bleeding-edge feel or iconic status of the Pista.

AGV Pista GP RR Helmet

The pinnacle of race helmet engineering, this lid is used to protect the heads of some of the most famous athletes in motorcycle history.

Pros:

• 100% carbon fiber
• Secure visor lock system
• Pinlock included and tear-off ready
• Literally used in MotoGP

Cons:

• Very expensive
• Not commuter-friendly
• High wind noise

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Our Review: Owning a Pista GP RR is a statement. We hope to be adding more first-hand thoughts about it to ItsBetterOnTheRoad.com.

Sport Helmet Comparison: Street vs. Track Focus