In the world of motorcycling, there’s a distinct appeal to gear that channels the spirit of a bygone era. And nothing captures that vibe like a good retro motorcycle helmet. Riders love the classic look—the sleek lines, the minimal branding, and the throwback feel that reminds us of old café racers, choppers, and bobbers. But while style is key, safety is paramount. These helmets give you both.
In this guide, we dive into the best retro-styled helmets that combine classic design with the latest in protective technology. Here’s what makes each one stand out and why they’re worth considering for your next ride.
1. Bell Bullitt Helmet
The Bell Bullitt is a name synonymous with classic style paired with high safety standards. Modeled after Bell’s original Star helmet from the 1960s, the Bullitt takes that timeless full-face design and ramps up the comfort and protection.
The helmet is crafted from a low-profile fiberglass composite shell, giving it a sleek, minimalist look that holds up to modern crash standards. The wide viewport is one of the most notable features, offering a unique, panoramic view of the road ahead—a nice departure from the narrow vision slits of more modern helmets. And Bell didn’t skip out on comfort here. With a genuine leather interior and contoured cheek pads, the Bullitt feels as good on your head as it looks from the outside.
Ventilation was a thoughtful touch, too, with five metal mesh intake vents channeling air directly to the crown of your head. You can customize the Bullitt with a variety of shields, including a flat or bubble shield, depending on your taste. If you’re after a helmet that makes a statement, the Bell Bullitt might just be the one.
Key Safety Features
- Fiberglass composite shell
- Wide field of vision
- Padded chin strap with a D-ring closure
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2. Bell Custom 500
A true tribute to Bell’s heritage, the Custom 500 is an open-face helmet that brings back the spirit of old-school riding with a solid nod to safety. Perfect for those who love the wind in their face, the Custom 500 blends a streamlined design with today’s safety needs.
Bell uses a low-profile fiberglass shell for the Custom 500, giving it that classic rounded dome look without the bulk. The helmet comes in five shell sizes, ensuring a snug fit without feeling overbuilt. Inside, you’ll find a multi-density EPS liner designed to absorb impact effectively, ensuring that the helmet doesn’t just look good but also performs when you need it.
One of the best parts about the Custom 500 is the customization it offers. The snap-on visor is perfect for sunnier days, but if you prefer a shield, there are numerous options for face shields and visors. It’s the kind of helmet that’s perfect for cruising down backroads on a vintage cruiser or hitting the city streets on a café racer.
Key Safety Features
- Multi-density EPS liner
- Five shell sizes for a low-profile fit
- Customizable with different visors and shields
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3. Biltwell Gringo SV
The Biltwell Gringo SV is a helmet that bridges the gap between retro aesthetics and modern functionality. It’s a full-face helmet that doesn’t scream for attention but offers plenty for the discerning rider who appreciates both style and safety.
Built from an injection-molded ABS outer shell, the Gringo SV is tough enough to meet DOT safety standards without feeling cumbersome. Biltwell added a scratch- and fog-resistant shield that flips up for those moments when you want a bit of fresh air. The shield is straightforward and doesn’t overcomplicate things—it’s easy to use and does its job.
Inside, the Gringo SV features an expanded polystyrene (EPS) safety liner paired with a hand-sewn interior, made from bio-foam padding and moisture-wicking Lycra. It’s a simple helmet, yes, but it’s crafted with intent. The retro design, the solid colors, and the no-nonsense function all make the Gringo SV a go-to for riders who want modern safety without the frills.
Key Safety Features
- Injection-molded ABS outer shell
- Fog-resistant, scratch-resistant shield
- EPS safety liner with bio-foam padding
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4. Biltwell Bonanza
The Biltwell Bonanza captures the essence of open-face freedom with a modern safety edge. Riders who enjoy a more minimalist feel but don’t want to sacrifice protection will appreciate what the Bonanza has to offer.
Constructed with an injection-molded ABS shell, the Bonanza is lightweight but capable. Inside, you’ll find a shock-absorbing EPS liner that does a respectable job at handling impact in case of an accident. Biltwell kept the interior simple but comfortable, lining it with brushed fleece for an extra soft touch against your head.
Though it doesn’t come with a shield, the Bonanza is compatible with a range of aftermarket visors, so you can adapt it for sunny days or windy rides. It’s an ideal choice for shorter commutes and those laid-back days when you want to feel the wind and soak in the sights.
Key Safety Features
- Lightweight ABS shell
- EPS liner for impact absorption
- Brushed fleece interior for comfort
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5. Simpson Ghost Bandit
The Simpson Ghost Bandit merges retro vibes with an aggressive, modern twist. Known for its distinct shape, it’s the kind of helmet that turns heads—both on and off the bike. It’s not all looks, though. The Ghost Bandit is built tough and ready to perform.
With its aerodynamic shell made from a lightweight composite material, this helmet meets DOT and ECE standards, providing the confidence you need for both city and highway rides. The Ghost Bandit’s design features extensive venting, including intake vents at the top and chin, as well as exhaust vents at the rear, keeping you cool when the pace picks up.
One of the standout features is the built-in drop-down sun visor, which allows you to easily transition from bright daylight to low light without needing to swap out shields. The Ghost Bandit also comes with speaker and microphone pockets, making it Bluetooth-compatible, so you can stay connected on the go.
Key Safety Features
- Lightweight composite shell
- Drop-down sun visor
- Ample ventilation for airflow
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Choosing the Right Retro Motorcycle Helmet
When it comes to retro helmets, there’s no shortage of style options. But it’s the modern safety features in these helmets that make them stand out in a crowded market.
Whether you prefer the enclosed protection of the Bell Bullitt or the open-face feel of the Bell Custom 500 and Biltwell Bonanza, there’s a helmet to match every rider’s style and safety requirements.
Remember, helmets are more than just an accessory—they’re your primary source of protection on the road. With these retro helmets, you don’t have to compromise. You get classic style paired with cutting-edge safety, ensuring you look good while staying safe on every ride.
