The 1970s was a pivotal decade for motorcycle culture, and the helmets of that era were defined by bold designs, simple shapes, and a no-nonsense aesthetic. Today, a new generation of riders is seeking that classic style of 70s motorcycle helmets.
Thankfully, modern brands are creating 70’s motorcycle helmets that blend that iconic retro look with the cutting-edge safety and comfort features of today.
1. Bell Bullitt GT
The Bell Bullitt GT is the undisputed king of modern retro helmets. Its design is a direct and faithful homage to the original Bell Star helmet, the first mass-market full-face motorcycle helmet from the 1960s. The Bullitt features an incredibly wide eye port, which gives it a distinct “space-helmet” look straight out of the 70s, while offering an exceptional field of vision. It’s a favorite for its style, clean lines, and a wide range of throwback graphics.
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2. Biltwell Gringo SV
Biltwell has built a brand around retro motorcycle culture, and the Gringo SV is their flagship product. The Biltwell Gringo SV is a classic full-face helmet updated with proper venting, a built-in flip-up visor, and more, making it a practical choice for daily riding while maintaining its vintage proportions. It’s known for it’s simple, minimalist shell and a variety of cool vintage-inspired colors.
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3. Shoei Glamster
The Shoei Glamster is a fantastic option for riders who want the quintessential 70s helmet look with all the modern features and premium quality that Shoei is known for. It has a compact, slim shell that avoids the bulky appearance of many modern helmets, a key part of the 70s aesthetic. With excellent ventilation, a Pinlock-ready visor, and superior comfort, the Glamster is a neo-retro helmet that doesn’t compromise on performance.
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4. Hedon Heroine Racer
For the rider who demands the best in both style and craftsmanship, the Hedon Heroine Racer is a work of art. This premium helmet is handcrafted with a lightweight carbon fiber and fiberglass shell and a luxurious genuine leather trim. Its low-profile, sleek shape is a tribute to 70s race helmets, and its exquisite finish makes it stand out from the crowd.
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5. AGV X3000
The AGV X3000 is a piece of motorcycling history. This helmet is a direct recreation of the lid worn by the legendary racer Giacomo Agostini. The helmet’s unique shape and distinctive visor closure system are pulled straight from the original 1970s design. It’s a must-have for classic race enthusiasts and collectors.
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6. Bell Custom 500
Before full-face helmets took over, open-face helmets were the standard. The Bell Custom 500 is a direct descendant of the original Bell 500 TX from the 1950s, but it was a staple of riders throughout the 70s. With its classic jet helmet shape and a low-profile shell, it offers an authentic throwback look for cruiser and bobber riders. It’s a great helmet and worth considering. It’s often paired with goggles or a bubble shield for that quintessential retro vibe.
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7. Nexx X.G100R
The Nexx X.G100R is another great example of a modern helmet that perfectly captures the 70s aesthetic. It features a fiberglass shell and a minimalist, rounded design. The “R” in the name stands for “Racer,” and the helmet’s clean lines and classic styling make it a perfect fit for café racer and custom bike enthusiasts.
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8. Simpson M50
The iconic “Bandit” helmet shape by Simpson has been popular since the 70s. While modern versions like the Simpson Ghost Bandit have added more features, the Simpson M50 is a direct homage to the classic, minimalist design. It’s an open-face helmet with a bold chin bar and a rugged look that’s perfect for riders who want a menacing, old-school feel.
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9. Arai Concept-XE
Arai is a brand known for its commitment to safety and quality, and the Arai Concept-XE proves that a retro helmet can be as protective as any modern lid. The helmet features a squared-off chin bar and a simple, clean design that pays homage to Arai’s own legacy of helmet designs from the 70s. It’s a premium option that combines classic style with industry-leading safety standards.
Check it out at FC Moto
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10. Torc Newport
Torc offers a couple of solid options for riders who want to get into the 70s look without a hefty price tag, but the Torc Newport is the one to get. It’s a full-face helmet with a retro shape and integrated features like a drop-down visor (available in several different retro color ways). Thee helmet offers an accessible entry point into the vintage helmet scene. And Torc has some other options if you like the price point.
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