Tag: Motorcycle Helmets

The Ultimate Guide to Motorcycle Helmets

Motorcycle helmets are an essential part of a rider’s motorcycle gear, offering protection, comfort, and even a touch of personal style. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just starting, choosing the right helmet is crucial.

This guide explores the various types of motorcycle helmets, detailing their benefits, features, and suitability for different riding styles.

1. Full-Face Helmets: Maximum Protection and Versatility

Image by Soheb Zaidi via Unsplash

Full-face helmets are the most comprehensive option available, offering protection for the entire head, including the chin and jaw.

These helmets are favored by riders who prioritize safety, especially those who frequently ride at high speeds or in challenging conditions.

Key Features

All-Round Protection: The full-face design ensures that the head, face, and chin are entirely encased, minimizing the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Aerodynamic Design: The sleek shape reduces wind resistance, making full-face helmets ideal for sport riders and those who enjoy long-distance touring.
Noise Reduction: The enclosed design helps to reduce wind noise, providing a quieter and more comfortable ride.
Ventilation Systems: Despite their comprehensive coverage, full-face helmets come equipped with advanced ventilation systems that ensure adequate airflow, preventing fogging and keeping the rider cool.

Why Choose a Full-Face Helmet?

Riders who prioritize safety above all else should consider a full-face helmet. Whether you’re commuting, touring, or racing, the full-face helmet provides unmatched protection and comfort.

It’s particularly beneficial in adverse weather conditions, offering shelter from rain, wind, and debris. Additionally, the visor can be customized with anti-fog, tinted, or even photochromic lenses to enhance visibility under different lighting conditions.

Read about the best full-face helmets.

2. Modular Helmets: The Best of Both Worlds

Schuberth C5 modular helmet

Modular helmets, also known as flip-up helmets, offer a unique blend of the safety features of full-face helmets and the convenience of open-face helmets.

They are particularly popular among touring riders who need the flexibility to switch between full-face protection and open-face comfort.

Key Features

Flip-Up Mechanism: The defining feature of modular helmets is the ability to flip up the chin bar, transforming the helmet from a full-face to an open-face configuration. This makes it easy for riders to communicate, hydrate, or take a quick break without removing their helmet.
Versatility: Modular helmets are ideal for riders who enjoy long-distance touring but occasionally need the convenience of an open-face helmet for city riding or quick stops.
Comfort and Convenience: With the chin bar flipped up, riders can enjoy increased ventilation and a broader field of view, making modular helmets more versatile in various riding conditions.
Safety Considerations: While modular helmets provide excellent protection, it’s important to note that they are slightly heavier than traditional full-face helmets due to the additional mechanisms. The integrity of the helmet may also be slightly compromised when the chin bar is in the up position.

Why Choose a Modular Helmet?

If you value both safety and convenience, a modular helmet is an excellent choice. It’s particularly suited for touring riders who may need to transition between different riding environments frequently.

The ability to switch between full-face and open-face modes offers unmatched versatility, making it a popular choice for riders who prioritize flexibility without compromising on safety.

Read about the best modular helmets.

3. Dual-Sport Helmets: Adventure-Ready and Versatile

Honda XR150L dual sport motorcycle

Dual-sport helmets, also known as adventure helmets, are designed for riders who split their time between on-road and off-road adventures.

These helmets combine elements of both full-face and off-road helmets, offering a unique blend of features that cater to the demands of dual-sport riding.

Key Features

Hybrid Design: Dual-sport helmets feature a design that combines the extended chin bar and visor of an off-road helmet with the aerodynamic shape of a full-face helmet. This design offers excellent protection and comfort for both on-road and off-road riding.
Visor and Shield: Most dual-sport helmets come with a visor to shield the rider’s eyes from the sun and a clear shield to protect against wind and debris. The shield can usually be removed if you prefer to wear goggles during off-road riding.
Ventilation: Designed with off-road riding in mind, dual-sport helmets typically offer superior ventilation systems that keep the rider cool and comfortable, even during intense off-road adventures.
Noise Levels: While dual-sport helmets are highly functional, they tend to be noisier than standard full-face helmets due to their off-road design elements like the visor. Riders who frequently travel at high speeds may find this aspect less desirable.

Why Choose a Dual-Sport Helmet?

For adventure riders who tackle a mix of highways and trails, a dual-sport helmet is an ideal choice. It offers the protection and features needed for off-road riding while maintaining the comfort and aerodynamics required for highway speeds.

If your rides often take you from the pavement to the dirt, the versatility of a dual-sport helmet will serve you well.

Read about the best dual-sport helmets.

4. Open-Face Helmets: Classic Style With Freedom

Image from Bell

Open-face helmets, also known as ¾ helmets, cover the top, sides, and back of the head but leave the face exposed. They are a popular choice for riders who prioritize comfort and a wide field of vision, often seen among cruiser and scooter riders.

Key Features

Wide Field of Vision: The lack of a chin bar allows for an unobstructed field of view, which is particularly beneficial for riders who navigate through city traffic or enjoy leisurely rides.
Lightweight and Comfortable: Without the added bulk of a chin bar, open-face helmets are typically lighter and more comfortable, making them a preferred choice for short commutes or casual rides.
Customization: Many open-face helmets offer the option to attach visors, face shields, or goggles, allowing riders to customize their level of protection based on their needs.
Vintage Appeal: Open-face helmets are often associated with a classic or retro aesthetic, making them a popular choice for riders of vintage motorcycles or those who prefer a minimalist style.

Why Choose an Open-Face Helmet?

Open-face helmets are ideal for riders who value comfort, style, and an open-air riding experience. They are particularly suited for city commuting, short-distance rides, or riding in warm weather.

However, it’s important to note that the lack of a chin bar offers less protection than full-face or modular helmets, so riders should weigh the trade-offs between comfort and safety.

Read about the best open-face helmets.

5. Half Helmets: Minimalist Design With Maximum Freedom

Bagus Prastyo via Unsplash

Half helmets, sometimes referred to as brain buckets, provide the most minimal coverage, protecting only the top of the head.

These helmets are favored by riders who prioritize freedom and airflow over protection, often seen among cruiser and chopper riders.

Key Features

Minimalist Design: Half helmets offer the least coverage, focusing on protecting the top of the head while leaving the face, ears, and neck exposed. This design provides a sense of freedom and connection with the environment.
Lightweight: Due to their minimal design, half helmets are the lightest option available, making them comfortable to wear for extended periods, especially in hot weather.
Style: Half helmets are often chosen for their distinctive look, complementing the rugged, minimalist style of certain motorcycles, such as cruisers and choppers.
Limited Protection: While half helmets meet the basic safety standards, they offer significantly less protection than other helmet types, especially in the event of a frontal impact.

Why Choose a Half Helmet?

Half helmets are best suited for riders who value freedom and style over maximum protection. They are ideal for low-speed, short-distance rides, and are often preferred in warm climates where ventilation and airflow are a priority.

However, riders should be aware of the trade-offs in terms of safety, as half helmets provide the least amount of coverage and protection.

Read about the best half helmets.

Choosing the Right Helmet for Your Ride

Selecting the right motorcycle helmet is a decision that should be based on your riding style, safety preferences, and personal comfort.

Full-face helmets offer the highest level of protection, making them ideal for sport and touring riders. Modular helmets provide versatility, while dual-sport helmets cater to those who enjoy both on-road and off-road adventures. Open-face helmets offer comfort and style, and half helmets provide the ultimate in freedom and airflow.

No matter what type of helmet you choose, ensure it meets safety standards and fits properly. A well-fitted helmet can be the difference between life and death in the event of an accident. Ride safe and always prioritize your protection on the road.

Read all of my motorcycle helmet articles below.

The Best Hulk Motorcycle Helmets

In the world of motorcycle helmets, it’s not just about protection—it’s about personality. Some riders lean into sleek minimalism; others crave vibrant, standout designs.

Then, there are the bold, unapologetic few who want to roar down the road with the raw, green energy of Marvel’s Hulk. If you’re in the market for a helmet that captures the essence of Bruce Banner’s angry alter-ego, you’re in for a treat. These Hulk motorcycle helmets bring a mix of safety, artistry, and superhero flair to the road.

The 5 Best American Flag Motorcycle Helmets

Motorcycling has always been about more than just two wheels and a motor. It’s a lifestyle, an expression, and for some, a declaration of pride.

Few symbols embody freedom like the American flag, and wearing it on your helmet or any piece of motorcycle gear tells the world exactly where your heart lies. From open highways to rugged dirt trails, these American flag motorcycle helmets combine patriotic flair with safety and style.

The Shoei GT-Air II Helmet Is 29% Off

The Shoei GT-Air II isn’t just a helmet; it’s a declaration of intent. This is gear for the rider who doesn’t merely commute but conquers highways with purpose and poise.

Shoei, the craftsman behind this full-face helmet, has sculpted something that feels as much at home slicing through the wind as it does resting on the café table beside your espresso. And right now it’s 29 percent off at Revzilla.

The 5 Best Dual Sport Helmets Under $200

When adventure calls and the road turns to dirt, a dual sport helmet becomes your best companion. These versatile helmets are designed to handle both the demands of the street and the challenges of the trail.

But not every great helmet needs to break the bank. For under $300, you can snag a helmet that offers comfort, protection, and style. Let’s dive into some of the best options, each tailored for the rider ready to conquer the road less traveled.

The 5 Best Motorcycle Half Helmets Under $80

When it comes to motorcycle gear, the half helmet holds a unique place. It’s light, convenient, and lets you feel the wind in your hair while offering the basic protection you need.

For riders on a budget, the market offers several solid options under $80, combining safety with a dash of style. Here’s a breakdown of some of the best choices for your next open-road adventure.

The Best Modular Motorcycle Helmets Under $200

Motorcycling, for many, is a blend of thrill and practicality. Modular helmets are a piece of necessary gear that caters to both, offering the protection of a full-face helmet with the convenience of an open-face.

For riders on a budget, finding modular motorcycle helmets under $200 that don’t compromise on quality is a challenge—but not an impossible one. Here’s a selection of modular helmets that hit the sweet spot between affordability and functionality.

The 5 Best Open-Face Helmets Under $100

Motorcycling is an exercise in balancing thrills and practicality, and gear is no exception. The open-face helmet, a favorite among urban riders and cruisers, delivers a delightful sense of freedom while keeping things functional.

But can you find a quality item for this piece of motorcycle gear without emptying your wallet? The answer is yes. Here’s a look at some of the best open-face helmets under $100, where value and reliability converge.

The Schuberth E1 Endurance Helmet Is 30% Off

The Schuberth E1 Endurance Helmet is a premium adventure helmet crafted for riders who tackle both on-road and off-road terrain. Combining Schuberth’s renowned modular design with off-road capabilities, it offers unparalleled versatility and high-level performance.

The helmet features a fiberglass Direct Fiber Processing (DFP) shell that provides excellent impact resistance while maintaining a lightweight structure, reducing fatigue during long rides.

The Scorpion EXO-R1 Air Juice Helmet Is 25% Off

The Scorpion EXO-R1 Air Juice Helmet is designed for serious sport riders and racers seeking a high-performance helmet that excels in speed, aerodynamics, and comfort.

Built with Scorpion’s Ultra-TCT (Thermodynamic Composite Technology) shell, it offers exceptional impact absorption while maintaining a lightweight profile, reducing strain on the neck during intense rides.

The 5 Best Full-Face Motorcycle Helmets Under $200

For riders everywhere safety and affordability are key priorities when choosing a motorcycle helmet. Like any other product, helmets vary in quality and features depending on price, but you can find good full-face motorcycle helmets under $200.

Fortunately, several full-face helmets on the market offer excellent safety, comfort, and style at that price point. Here’s a breakdown of the best options available: the HJC i10, Scorpion EXO Ryzer, Bell Qualifier, Icon Airform Dark, and LS2 Stream helmets.