The stats don’t lie. Motorcyclists are 27 times more likely to die in an accident than automobile drivers. Wearing a helmet, however, pushes the odds back in your favor by roughly 37 percent, proving that it can be a literal lifesaver for any motorcycle rider.
That being said, no ordinary helmet will do. Whether you drag a knee around the corners or cruise on a custom, you can’t trust your life in the shell of any old helmet. Lucky for you, you’re about to discover some of the very best motorcycle helmet options on the market today.
This buying guide and the motorcycle helmet reviews below will have you riding in style in no time with the comfort and protection you deserve.
What is the Best Motorcycle Helmet?
If you’re short on time or attention and don’t want to waste either reading through this comprehensive guide, here’s the rundown on the best motorcycle helmets in the following important categories:
Best Motorcycle Helmet for the Money – Bell Cam Adult Qualifier Street Motorcycle Helmet
Bell is one of today’s top motorcycle helmet brands, and the Bell Qualifier Helmet may just be the best cheap motorcycle helmet on the market.
With a laundry list of features, aggressive price, and equally aggressive style, it’s pound for pound the best motorcycle helmet for the price.
Period. So, if you’re tight on cash and on the hunt for the best inexpensive motorcycle helmet, you can’t go wrong with the Bell Cam Adult Qualifier. Best motorcycle helmet under 200 → Check Bell Cam Adult Qualifier on Amazon.com
Best Rated Motorcycle Helmet – HJC CL-17 Full Face Motorcycle Helmet
With endless five-star reviews and a solid reputation for quality and comfort, the HJC CL-17 is one of the highest rated motorcycle helmets around.
In addition to being DOT and Snell certified, this top rated motorcycle helmet features a reasonable price tag, great ventilation, quick change visor, and good looks to boot.
If you’re wondering what is the top motorcycle helmet in terms of value, look no further than the HJC CL-17. → Check HJC CL-17 on Amazon.com
Coolest Full Face Helmet – AGV GT-Veloce TXT Full Face Motorcycle Helmet
There are a ton of cool motorcycle helmets out there, but very few full face motorcycle helmets have the effortless cool factor of the AGV GT-Veloce.
Adapted to touring but still containing AGV’s racing soul, the GT-Veloce excels in terms of aerodynamics, safety, ventilation, and weight, or lack there of.
Whether you want a great sportbike helmet for mad dashes around town or a full face lid for touring on the weekends, the AGV GT-Veloce is definitely worth checking out. → Check AGV GT-Veloce TXT on Amazon.com
Best Modular Helmet – 1Storm Modular Full Face Street Bike Helmet
If modular is your thing, the best modular helmet in many opinions is the 1Storm Modular Full Face Street Bike Helmet.
With a ton of positive modular helmet reviews and a design that screams versatility, it’s hard to bet against this modular. → Check 1Storm Helmet on Amazon.com
Best Modular Bluetooth Helmet – HJC CL-MAXBT II Bluetooth Modular Motorcycle Helmet
Today, great motorcycle helmets do much more than protect. In fact, the best street motorcycle helmet now doubles as a radio, phone, and GPS as well.
One such helmet is the HJC CL-MAXBT II Bluetooth Modular Motorcycle Helmet.
With a superior fit, great face shield, and one of the best ventilation systems in the business, it’s arguably the best modular motorcycle helmet to hit the streets. → Check HJC CL-MAXBT II on Amazon.com
Best Full Face Bluetooth Helmet – TORC T14B Bluetooth Integrated Mako Nuke Full Face Helmet
Helmets obviously save lives, but if looks could kill, the TORC T14B Bluetooth Integrated Mako Nuke Full Face Helmet would be a lethal assassin.
In all seriousness, this TORC looks great and is well-made, reasonably priced, and easy to pair up with any smartphone for full Bluetooth capabilities. In other words, it’s one of if not the best full face motorcycle helmet with Bluetooth being made today. → Check TORC T14B on Amazon.com
Best Motorcycle Helmet for Bluetooth Headset Compatibility – HJC IS-MAX II Modular Motorcycle Helmet
There are some really cool motorcycle helmets with Bluetooth technology these days.
However, if you already have a favorite pair of earbuds and don’t necessarily want a motorcycle helmet with Bluetooth built in, the HJC IS-MAX II Modular Motorcycle Helmet is a great pick.
In addition to being quiet, comfortable, and having an awesome retractable sun shade, it’s fully compatible with nearly every Bluetooth headset. → Check HJC IS-MAX II on Amazon.com
Best Motorcycle Helmet for Eyeglass Wearers – Shoei Qwest Helmet
Thousands of riders, especially us aging ones, wear eyeglasses.
If you wear glasses as well, the Shoei Qwest Helmet may be for you. It looks great, is super comfortable, and has a great fit with plenty of room for the biggest of bifocals, making it one of the top motorcycle helmet options for eyeglass wearers.
With a number of rave motorcycle helmets reviews, it definitely stacks up against the competition. → Check Shoei Qwest on Amazon.com
Best Cheap Motorcycle Helmet – Fuel SH-FF0015 Full Face Helmet
Many in-the-know riders consider the Fuel SH-FF0015 Full Face Helmet the best cheap motorcycle helmet out there.
With a laughably low price tag, decent good looks, DOT-approved shell, quick release shield, and ample ventilation, it’s hard to argue with them.
If you’re looking for good cheap motorcycle helmets, this affordable Fuel won’t disappoint. → Check Fuel SH-FF0015 on Amazon.com
Best Motorcycle Helmet Reviews
HJC Solid Men’s CL-17 Full Face Motorcycle Helmet
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The HJC CL-17 Full Face Motorcycle Helmet is an all-time favorite that provides riders with a solid lid for an affordable price, making it the best rated motorcycle helmet for sale today.
As one of today’s best motorcycle helmet brands, HJC rarely disappoints, and the CL-17 is no exception. It features a DOT and Snell certified polycarbonate shell, comfortable interior with removable and washable contoured pads, advanced ventilation system for maximum airflow, and classic good looks that will never go out of style.
In other words, it’s an awesome helmet for any rider.
[wpsm_column size=”one-half”]PROS:
- Great reviews and reputation;
- Well-built;
- Comfortable;
- Great fit;
- Ample airflow;
- Affordably priced.
CONS:
- Pads are thick and require a little breaking in.
Video Review
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[wpsm_testimonial by=”Mark Nichols” image=”http://riskyhead.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/mark.jpg” ]There are hundreds of different mens motorcycle helmets out there to choose from these days, but very few, if any, deliver the same combination of fit, comfort, safety, and affordability as the HJC CL-17. If you like the stealthy all-black look and want a great helmet and an excellent value, this HJC may have your name all over it.
[/wpsm_testimonial] [wpsm_divider top=”20px” bottom=”20px” style=”solid”]Bell Cam Adult Qualifier Street Motorcycle Helmet
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Bell has been making first-class helmets for decades and many consider it today’s best motorcycle helmet brand. With helmets like the Cam Adult Qualifier, it’s easy to see why.
The Bell Qualifier has aggressive good looks and is packed to the brim with great features. From its lightweight and aerodynamic polycarbonate shell to its click-release face shield, adjustable ventilation system, and integrated speaker pockets, it has nearly every design feature a rider could ask for.
Best of all, the Qualifier is laughably low priced, making it arguably the best budget motorcycle helmet on the market. It’s also recommended in nearly all motorcycle helmet reviews, so you can bet it lives up to the hype.
[wpsm_column size=”one-half”]PROS:
- Very affordable;
- Sleek, aggressive styling;
- Removable and washable interior pads;
- Click-release face shield with fog and UV protection;
- Contoured cheek pads;
- DOT approved;
- Industry-leading warranty.
CONS:
- Wind visor lacks lock;
- Not as quiet as some helmets.
Video Review
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[wpsm_testimonial by=”Mark Nichols” image=”http://riskyhead.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/mark.jpg” ]The Bell Qualifier packs a punch in terms of style, performance, and price, making it one of the top motorcycle helmets out there for cash-strapped riders. With striking good looks, a five-year warranty, and a price that would make a coupon-clipping grandma smile, it’s worth its salt and then some.
[/wpsm_testimonial] [wpsm_divider top=”20px” bottom=”20px” style=”solid”]Shoei RF-1200 Full Face Motorcycle Helmet
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If you’re okay with price taking a backseat to performance and understand the concept of getting what you pay for, you’re going to love the Shoei RF-1200 Full Face Motorcycle Helmet!
Lighter, smaller, and more aerodynamically designed than any other Snell certified helmet, the Shoei RF-1200 is perhaps the top motorcycle helmet your hard-earned money can buy. While it doesn’t look flashy like some of the other awesome motorcycle helmets on this list, its compact, aerodynamic design creates one of the most stable, comfortable, and quiet rides imaginable.
With superior ventilation, a locking face shield, dual-density EPS liner, and customizable 3D Max-Dry interior as well, it’s easy to see why so many endorse the Shoei RF-1200 as one of the best full face motorcycle helmets being made today.
[wpsm_column size=”one-half”]PROS:
- Extremely well-made;
- Great attention to detail;
- Super quiet, stable, and comfortable;
- Compact and lightweight;
- Very popular.
CONS:
- On the higher end of the price spectrum.
Video Review
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[wpsm_testimonial by=”Mark Nichols” image=”http://riskyhead.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/mark.jpg” ]The Shoei RF-1200 screams quality in every way. Thanks to its thoughtful design, it’s one of the quietest and most comfortable helmets you’re going to find anywhere. So, if you’re a serious rider who values a smooth, quiet, and safe ride, pony up for this awesome Shoei today. You’ll be glad you did.
[/wpsm_testimonial] [wpsm_divider top=”20px” bottom=”20px” style=”solid”]LS2 Stream Solid Full Face Motorcycle Helmet with Sunshield
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If you’re reading this motorcycle helmet review hoping to find a great looking helmet that offers full-face protection for under $100, say hello to the LS2 Stream Full Face Motorcycle Helmet with Sunshield.
As one of the best looking motorcycle helmets in its price bracket, this LS2 will definitely turn some heads while protecting yours. Speaking of protection, it’s DOT certified and constructed of LS2’s proprietary HPTT polycarbonate alloy.
In terms of performance, the popular black full face motorcycle helmet features removable laser-cut pads for superior fit and comfort as well as a quick-release Twin Shield System with drop down sun shield for premium optics and one-of-a-kind versatility.
[wpsm_column size=”one-half”]PROS:
- Very affordable and a great value;
- Well-constructed;
- Unique face shield system;
- Popular option for a variety of riders;
- Variety of colors and styles to choose from.
CONS:
- Not ideal for round-shaped heads;
- Minimal padding.
Video Review
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[wpsm_testimonial by=”Mark Nichols” image=”http://riskyhead.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/mark.jpg” ]If you don’t have a lot to spend and want a great looking full face helmet for quick trips in and around your neck of the woods, the LS2 Stream is a solid choice. Although it could use more padding and isn’t the best touring helmet in the world, it certainly offers a lot of bang for the buck.
[/wpsm_testimonial] [wpsm_divider top=”20px” bottom=”20px” style=”solid”]HJC IS-Max II Modular Motorcycle Helmet
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HJC is known for making some of the best modular helmets in the industry, and the IS-Max II Modular Motorcycle Helmet is one of the brand’s best.
In addition to being perfectly sized and providing one of the most comfortable fits in the game, the IS-Max II features an advanced polycarbonate shell and fully adjustable chin bar, adding to it’s ability to fit like a glove. With a push-button face shield release, pin lock, premium one-touch sun shield, and an advanced channeling ventilation system as well, it’s pound for pound one of the top motorcycle helmets being sold today.
[wpsm_column size=”one-half”]PROS:
- Great overall helmet;
- Lightweight for a modular;
- Very comfortable and quiet;
- One-touch chin bar release;
- Bluetooth compatible.
CONS:
- Can be a tight fit at first;
- More color/style options would be nice.
Video Review
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[wpsm_testimonial by=”Mark Nichols” image=”http://riskyhead.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/mark.jpg” ]Overall, the HJC IS-Max II Modular Motorcycle Helmet is a great option for most riders. Whether you’re on the hunt for a lightweight full face helmet or specifically want a modular model, the looks, fit, quietness, and versatility of this HJC is sure to win you over.
[/wpsm_testimonial] [wpsm_divider top=”20px” bottom=”20px” style=”solid”]Arai Vector 2 Solid Helmet
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Arai’s one of the best names in the business whose products have received hundreds upon hundreds of positive motorcycle helmet reviews. Therefore, it should come as no surprise to see one of the company’s best on this list.
As such, the Arai Vector 2 Solid Helmet is one of the top 10 motorcycle helmets being manufactured today. The rock-solid full face lid exceeds Snell and DOT standards, is super quiet, and made with comfort in mind.
With a lightweight shell featuring complex laminate construction, Arai’s exclusive EPS liner, extra-wide peripheral view, and more air and exhaust vents than you can count, it deserves to be mentioned in any “the top motorcycle helmet” discussion.
[wpsm_column size=”one-half”]PROS:
- Premium helmet by a first-class brand;
- Lightweight shell with excellent strength and integrity;
- Super comfortable multi-density EPS liner;
- Excellent ventilation system;
- Wider field of view for improved vision.
CONS:
- Higher priced than some models;
- Effective yet rather basic looking exterior.
Video Review
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[wpsm_testimonial by=”Mark Nichols” image=”http://riskyhead.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/mark.jpg” ]It isn’t flashy and won’t take your breath away, but the Arai Vector 2 is a top-notch motorcycle helmet in every sense of the word. It’s safe, comfortable, lightweight, and allows you to see more of what’s around you; a definite must when cruising the road.
[/wpsm_testimonial] [wpsm_divider top=”20px” bottom=”20px” style=”solid”]AGV K3 Full Face Motorcycle Helmet
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The K-3 is one of AGV’s best entry-level motorcycle helmets. As arguably the top motorcycle helmet under $200, it features an array of air vents, awesome anti-fog visor, comfortable Dri-Lex padding, and a removable nose protector.
The fun doesn’t stop there. In addition to all of these nifty design elements, it also scores a 10 in the looks department. Although its thermoplastic shell leaves a little to be desired in the safety category, it’s still a solid, stylish option worthy of a second look.
[wpsm_column size=”one-half”]PROS:
- One of the superior motorcycle helmets for the money;
- Very stylish;
- Reasonably quiet;
- Fits very well;
- Good ventilation.
CONS:
- A little big in size;
- Non-polycarbonate shell.
Video Review
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[wpsm_testimonial by=”Mark Nichols” image=”http://riskyhead.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/mark.jpg” ]There’s a lot to love about the AGV K3. Not only is it one of the coolest full face helmet options on the market, but it’s lightweight, comfortable, and reasonably priced as well. If you fancy yourself a stylish bloke and want a quality helmet that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg, check out the AGV K3 Full Face Motorcycle Helmet today.
[/wpsm_testimonial] [wpsm_divider top=”20px” bottom=”20px” style=”solid”]Shark Evoline Series 3 Helmet
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Out of all of today’s top modular helmets, none are as unique and identifiable as the Shark Evoline Series 3. Featuring Shark’s signature unique looks and a lightweight cutting-edge design, it’s recommended in all of the best modular helmets reviews.
Like every modern helmet should be, the Shark Evoline Series 3 is Bluetooth ready, so you can stay connected and rock out on the road. It also has a built-in sun shield, great aerodynamics, improved noise suppression, and a cool chin bar that can go on and off in the blink of an eye.
Needless to say, it’s right up there with the best of them in terms of function, comfort, and design.
[wpsm_column size=”one-half”]PROS:
- Great design;
- Improved aerodynamics;
- Quick-release visor and chin bar system;
- Removable and washable lining;
- Lightweight for a modular;
- Looks like a star fighter helmet or something from the set of “Tron”.
CONS:
- Looks a little big on smaller bodies.
Video Review
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[wpsm_testimonial by=”Mark Nichols” image=”http://riskyhead.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/mark.jpg” ]Is the Shark Evoline Series 3 the best motorcycle helmet ever made? Perhaps, if you like bad ass helmets that can transform in an instant like Optimus Prime! Modern and cutting-edge in all of the right ways, this helmet is the worth every penny of its asking price.
[/wpsm_testimonial] [wpsm_divider top=”20px” bottom=”20px” style=”solid”]Nolan N86 Motorcycle Helmet
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The Nolan N86 Motorcycle Helmet is a sporty full faced model that’s short on size and big on performance.
As one of today’s top motorcycle helmets, the N86 is made by a reputable motorcycle helmet brand and features a compact, streamlined design, independent clear and tinted shields, plus a pin lock anti-fog visor. Meanwhile, its comfortable inner pads are highly breathable, removable, and washable.
The result is a wonderful full face helmet that shines in every way. There are many full face motorcycle helmets for men swarming the showroom shelves these days, but if you’re searching for a helmet with classic comfort and good looks for a reasonable price, this Nolan may just win you over.
[wpsm_column size=”one-half”]PROS:
- Very well-made;
- Compact and lightweight;
- Great fit and comfort;
- Excellent for eyeglass wearers;
- Large air vents for maximum ventilation;
- Internal sun screen.
CONS:
- Few color and design options.
Video Review
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[wpsm_testimonial by=”Mark Nichols” image=”http://riskyhead.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/mark.jpg” ]All things considered, the Nolan N86 is a great helmet at a great price. If you’ve been looking through motorcycle helmet reviews in search of a great fitting, no-nonsense helmet that just plain works, click the buy button right now and go ahead and thank me later.
[/wpsm_testimonial] [wpsm_divider top=”20px” bottom=”20px” style=”solid”]Bell Manifest Hi-Viz Adult Vortex Street Racing Motorcycle Helmet
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Rounding out the list, the Bell Manifest H-Viz Vortex Street Racing Motorcycle Helmet is made for riders who command attention.
Developed in Santa Cruz, California at Bell’s cutting-edge design center, the Manifest Hi-Viz Adult Vortex is the best looking motorcycle helmet in its price range. It also utilizes many of the same design aspects as the much more expensive Star, such as the ClickRelease shield and the adjustable Velocity Flow Ventilation System.
With a lightweight polycarbonate shell, aerodynamic wind-slicing shape, plush removable liner, contoured cheek pads, speaker pockets, and a noise suppressing wind collar as well, it’s a complete package with a price tag that’s hard to beat. If you want the top motorcycle helmet but don’t want to shell out hundreds of bucks, the Bell Manifest Vortex is an obvious choice.
[wpsm_column size=”one-half”]PROS:
- Sleek aerodynamic shape;
- Looks great;
- Well-priced;
- Great ventilation;
- Nice shield system;
- Surprisingly quiet;
- Excellent visibility.
CONS:
- Cheek pads are a bit thick.
Video Review
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[wpsm_testimonial by=”Mark Nichols” image=”http://riskyhead.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/mark.jpg” ]The Bell Manifest Hi-Viz Vortex is one of the most popular motorcycle helmets on the market and has received a ton of positive full face motorcycle helmet reviews. With stylish good looks, all of the features you could ask for, and a price that’s sure to make you grin, it’s a great helmet that’s tough to beat.
[/wpsm_testimonial] [wpsm_divider top=”20px” bottom=”20px” style=”solid”]What Types of Motorcycle Helmets Are Out There?
Now that you know a little about today’s best motorcycle helmets, let’s get familiar with the different types of helmets out there on the road and at the track by breaking them down into the categories below:
By helmet shape
- Full Face – If you want the absolute top motorcycle helmet, a full face helmet is the way to go. This type of helmet features a fixed wrap-around chin bar as well as a fully closing visor for maximum face protection. Although they’re commonly seen at the track or on the heads of sportbike riders on the road, they’re often used by Harley and other cruiser riders as well. From full face cruiser helmets to full fledged racing models, there’s definitely a full face out there for you.
- Off-Road – You won’t find them mentioned in many motorcycle helmet reviews not geared towards motocross racers, but off-road helmets provide the best coverage for any rider who prefers hitting the trail rather than the open road. Although off-road helmets are significantly different than street helmets, they utilize full chin bars just like full face helmets. However, instead of a shield, they’re designed with an opening for goggles.
- Modular – Also called flip up helmets, modular motorcycle helmets are designed to allow you to switch between full and open faced for better protection or ventilation whenever you want. As mentioned in the modular motorcycle helmet reviews above, the best flip up motorcycle helmet is one that’s equipped with a chin bar that can flip up or down and lock in place with the press of a button. Such versatility has made modular helmets a popular option for many riders.
- Open Face – Open face helmets, or ¾ helmets, lack chin bars and only protect your cheeks, ears, and back of your head. These types of helmets are popular amongst touring riders and often have flip down shields for catching bugs, improved vision, and communicating with other riders. However, even the best open face motorcycle helmet lacks the protection of a full face model.
- Half – Half helmets, also called shorties, only protect the top of the head. While they’re the most comfortable motorcycle helmets and quite popular, half helmets are also the least protective. If going this route in order to get a cheap motorcycle helmet, be forewarned, you’re taking a risk. The best motorcycle half helmet should be well-constructed and have a solid shell in order to provide you with the best possible protection while still enjoying the wind in your face.
By head shape
- Long Oval – Helmets also differ in shape just like our heads. Long oval helmets have a more aggressive look and are longer from front to back and narrower on the sides. If you’re interested in finding the best lightweight motorcycle helmet, you should know that most race helmets fall into this category.
- Intermediate Oval – In between long oval and round helmets, intermediate oval helmets are slightly elongated from front to back and have a less aggressive look. Many mid-range helmets feature an intermediate oval head shape.
- Round Oval – As their name suggests, round oval helmets are wider rather than long and designed for riders with rounder heads. Bell is an example of a manufacturer known for making excellent round oval helmets.
How Do You Measure Motorcycle Helmet Size?
The majority of riders tend to focus on construction, styling, functionality, and features when shopping for the top motorcycle helmet, but the fit of a helmet is just as important. If it’s too small, it will be uncomfortable. If it’s too big, it won’t provide you with the4 protection you need and may come off in an accident. This step-by-step guide will walk you through how to measure your helmet size and ensure you get the best fitting helmet for your noggin.
Step 1: Measure Your Head
Before you even begin your search for the top motorcycle helmets, you must first measure your head and get your helmet size. To do so, simply use a tape measure to measure the circumference of your head. The tape measure should be placed just above your ears and eyebrows when measuring. Make sure to write down the measurement in inches.
Step 2: Determine Your Helmet Size
With your head measurement in hand, simply use the table below to find your right helmet size:
Helmet Size Chart (Inches )
| Size | Inches |
|---|---|
| XX-Small | 20 1/8 – 20 1/2 |
| X-Small | 20 7/8 – 21 1/4 |
| Small | 21 5/8 – 22 |
| Medium | 22 1/2 – 22 7/8 |
| Large | 23 1/4 – 23 5/8 |
| X-Large | 24 – 24 3/8 |
| XX-Large | 24 3/4 – 25 1/8 |
Please Note – This chart doesn’t guarantee a perfect fit. Since different helmet brands simply fit differently, the chart should only be used as a general guide.
Step 3: Test for Fit
If you’re shopping the old-fashioned way and have access to a local motorcycle store with tons of helmets and gear on the shelves, the next step is to try some on. To do so, simply use the chin straps to pull the helmet down over your head. Make sure to pull outward as well for the most comfortable fit.
Assuming you’ve picked the right size helmet, consider the way it fits your head. The pads should be up against your cheeks and there should be no gaps between them. After awhile, the pads and lining will compress and contour into shape, so it should feel nice and snug at first.
On the other hand, there shouldn’t be a ton of pressure either. You don’t have top sacrifice comfort for proper protection.
To help ensure a perfect fit and make sure there is no movement, press down firmly on the top of the helmet with one hand and try turning your head from side to side. If you’re able to turn your head while the helmet remains still, it is too big and won’t give you the protection you need.
Step 4: Examine Your Face
Lastly, take the helmet off and check your face for any signs of redness on your cheeks or forehead. Any marks you see could become 10 times worse during a weekend cruise or cross country tour.
What’s the Fuss About Hi-Viz Motorcycle Helmets?
What is a good motorcycle helmet? As an avid motorcyclist for over two decades now, trust me when I tell you it’s one that allows you to be seen!
I’ve had plenty of close calls with cars over the years and have heard countless stories from fellow riders about cars not seeing them and nearly taking them out. So, unless you want to become a statistic, listen up.
Motorcycles are much lower and smaller than cars and trucks, making them difficult to see at times. Making matters worse, most riders choose to go the tough all-black look, which may look cool but it also makes them impossible to see, especially at night.
The solution to this is a hi-viz helmet. They’re not singled out in many motorcycle helmet reviews, but hi-viz, or high visibility, motorcycle helmets can sometimes mean the difference between life and death.
With a brightly colored hi-viz helmet, your chances of being in an accident go down drastically, because drivers see you and give you room to pass. It’s as simple as that. Since your life is your most valuable asset, a hi-viz motorcycle helmet is the best investment you can make as a motorcycle rider.
A terrific example of a great hi-viz helmet is the HJC Force Men’s FG-17 Street Motorcycle Helmet. With a matte black background and a cool hi-viz red or neon yellow design on the foreground, it will draw attention to you and your bike in all the right ways from half a mile away.
In addition to standing out in a crowd, the HJC Force FG-17 is also one of the most comfortable motorcycle helmet options around. The race-ready helmet features a lightweight composite shell, superior fit, moisture-wicking interior, interchangeable cheek pads, and several other nifty design elements made to boost its comfort and performance.
Another great example of a hi-viz helmet is the Bell Manifest Adult Vortex Hi-Viz Street Racing Motorcycle Helmet. This popular, great looking Bell features a glossy black background with a cool hi-viz yellow design that wraps around over half of the helmet, making it stand out when out on the road. It also has all of the other features you would expect from the first-class brand.
Most Popular Motorcycle Helmet Brands
You can dig around through some obscure motorcycle helmet reviews and find a diamond in the rough made by some no-name brand, but the brands below have a solid track record for making the best motorcycle helmets in the business. If you want to guarantee yourself a great helmet, do yourself a favor and get one from one of the following brands:
Shoei
Founded in Tokyo in 1959, Shoei is one of the absolute best Japanese motorcycle helmet brands. Today, Shoei is one of the most respected motorcycle helmet manufacturers and offers a diverse lineup of quality street and off-road helmets for every rider and budget. If you’re on the hunt for the best motorcycle helmet available, chances are you’ll find it wearing the Shoei badge.
HJC
Good motorcycle helmet brands are hard to come by but HJC is definitely one of them. The brand has been making top-notch motorcycle helmets since 1971 and prides itself on combining first-class functionality with unbeatable pricing to produce affordable helmets that flat out perform. With more and more great HJC models being released each year, the company continues to expand and grow as a player in the competitive motorcycle helmet industry.
Bell
Founded in 1954, Bell is an American motorcycle helmet manufacturer with a long track record of producing some of the best and most popular motorcycle helmets year after year. Aside from being worn by dozens of national and world champions, Bell helmets are incredibly popular for their undeniable functionality and good looks. With attention paid to every detail, you can rest assured you’re getting a great helmet if you pick a Bell.
Arai
Arai is a Japanese helmet manufacturer with a sterling reputation for creating high-quality helmets that are second to none. As one of today’s top 10 motorcycle helmet brands, Arai’s helmets meet both DOT and Snell safety standards. They’re also packed full of thoughtful features and designed with superior comfort and quietness in mind. In other words, if you’re interested in nothing but the best, get an Arai. You’ll be glad you did.
Nolan
Nolan is one of the premier Italian motorcycle helmet brands and one of the most popular brands throughout Europe and the US. They offer a full line of stylish and safety-conscious DOT-certified motorcycle helmets. Whether you’re looking for the best lightweight motorcycle helmet or the best ventilated motorcycle helmet, Nolan is a brand you can turn to and trust.
Shark
Based in France, Shark is another popular European brand known for making top-tier motorcycle helmets for the most stylish and discerning of riders. With over 25 years of experience, Shark was founded by motorcycle professionals who demanded nothing but the best in their helmets. This shows in each and every helmet they make. If you’re interested in good motorcycle helmets, go to your local cycle shop with a $100 bill. If you want the best, however, do yourself a favor and invest in an innovative Shark today.
AGV
AGV is an Italian motorcycle helmet brand with roots dating back to the early 1900’s. Unlike other brands, AGV actually started out making leather motorcycle seats. Although the company didn’t begin making motorcycle helmets until several years later in 1947, it’s the oldest helmet manufacturer in existence today. The brand is currently a favorite amongst racers and everyday riders alike.
Motorcycle Helmet FAQ
When it comes to motorcycle helmets, there are two primary types of safety ratings. There are ratings required by law and ratings conducted by third-party organizations for proof of quality. The helmet manufacturers above go above and beyond city, state, or country regulations and design helmets with multiple third-party stamps of approval.
The two major safety ratings to look out for are DOT and Snell. If you live in Europe or Australia, you’ll want a helmet approved by the ECE or AUS respectively. If you’re searching for the great motorcycle helmet, make sure to choose one approved from multiple agencies.
Different safety ratings agencies focus on different types of head impacts. Therefore, deciding on the best has been a hot topic of debate over the years. The fact is, it’s impossible to know what kind of collision you may potentially be involved in.
That being said, if you’re shopping for the top motorcycle helmets, you’re best off going with a helmet that is DOT and/or Snell certified as these are two of the most trusted agencies. If you live in Europe, ECE certification is key.
Even the slightest impact can have a negative effect on the structural integrity of a helmet. Most of the time, structural damage can’t be seen with the naked eye. Rather, most damage often occurs in the form of stress fractures or hairline cracks in the EPS liner, which provides an added layer of protection between the outer shell and interior padding of a helmet. Once the EPS liner becomes compromised, it’s no longer able to work effectively, resulting in the need for a helmet replacement.
Honestly, fit and safety are equally important factors to consider when reading motorcycle helmet reviews. In fact, fit actually plays a large role in the safety of a helmet. How so, you ask? Well, if a helmet is too big, it won’t provide the correct level of protection. The helmet may even fly off in an accident leaving your head completely vulnerable to the asphalt.
Thus, the best helmets for motorcycles are those that fit well and are built even better to provide you with the protection you deserve. Of course, features like over-sized air vents, tinted face shields, and quick release chin bars are an added plus.
Making the Decision
If you’ve put on your leathers, laced up your boots, and made it to the end of this page, go ahead and let out a loud “Heck ya!” because you now know all you need to know in order to pick the very top motorcycle helmet for you.
Whether you’re interested in cheap motorcycle helmets and want the best motorcycle helmet for the money, or you have a healthy budget and demand the best, you’re equipped with the knowledge and the know-how to choose a great helmet that won’t let you down.
As you can see from the motorcycle helmet reviews above, there are some awesome helmets out there for every budget and style. All you have to do is pick one out!
Wearing a bad helmet is almost as bad as not wearing one at all. So, go ahead, put what you’ve learned to use, and treat your dome to a great lid today. You’ll be happy you did. Find your best affordable motorcycle helmet.
