We know better – having worked and consulted for helmet giants since 1985, besides being a rider myself. The best modular helmets offer the right combination of safety, function, performance, features, and price.
For this post, we will categorize our best picks into three value sections: Entry Level, Mid-Range, and High End.
More on these helmets are down below. In the meantime, let’s delve into the definition, safety, and criteria for picking the best modular helmet for your specific riding style and needs.
What Is a Modular Helmet?
A modular helmet is a hybrid of open-face and full-face helmets with a hinge system that allows the chin bar to easily lift open with a simple touch of a button transforming into an open-face lid for convenience. While a modular helmet can easily flip up to be open-faced, it’s actually not designed for smokers but simply for those who want some fresh air at a stoplight or while parked.
Is It Safe to Use a Modular Helmet?
Contrary to popular belief, the design of a modular helmet doesn’t reduce its ability to protect you in the event of a road mishap. But despite having two homologations, we discourage you from wearing the lids with the hinged bar flipped up while the motorcycle is moving at high speed. This is to ensure full protection of your face in case of a crash.
A Quick Review of Our Top 15 Best Modular Helmets for 2023
Tourers, commuters, riding teachers, and others who value adaptability and practicality together with safety and comfort have long preferred modular helmets, which combine the protection of a full-face lid with the ease of an open-face helmet.
For ease of comparison of similar valued items, we will group our best modular helmet picks according to these tiers, Entry Level, Mid-Range, and High End, and consequently low to high price orders.
Entry-Level: Best Modular Motorcycle Helmets Under $300
Is it just a myth or can you actually find a durable modular helmet below $300? Well, you absolutely can! High-quality models do not have to be pricey. Just look at our selections below.
1. HJC C91 Helmet
Features:
| Shell: | Advanced Polycarbonate Composite Shell | Shield: | Pinlock-Ready Face Shield |
| Motion Energy Distribution System (M.E.D.S.): | Dual-Density Advanced Multi-Layer EPS | Interior: | SuperCool Top Interior and Cheek Pad Interior |
| Safety Certification: | DOT/ECE Approved | Visor: | Smoked Drop-Down Sun Visor |
| Color: | Black, Matte Black, White, Basalt Gray, Pearl White, Titanium | Size: | XS-XXL (up to 5XL in the U.S.) |
| Warranty: | 3 Year Warranty from Date of Purchase or 5 Years from Date of Manufacture | Weight: | 5.44 lbs. (Large) |
| Included: | Bluetooth Communication Speaker Pockets |
The HJC C91, one of the newer helmets on our list, is not a jack-of-all-trades helmet. It’s not the fastest looking or resembling a racing modular lid with a chin bar that can be flipped up. The C91, however, is a helmet that, according to HJC, “focuses on accomplishing what is important, properly.”
Its lightweight polycarbonate shell with a multi-layer, dual-density EPS foam backing enhances impact absorption. While the smoked drop-down sun visor lowers the interior temperature by blocking and reflecting the sun. It’s pin-lock compatible, albeit no pin-lock is included in the package.
HJC’s “SuperCool” system provides ventilation by circulating air over the whole helmet, not just the top, to drain away as much heat as possible before exhausting up through the top rear.
I loved the premium-feel cushioning and liner, which are entirely detachable and washable. It is also performed on the lower left side of the primary shell to take any Cardo or SENA comms devices if you already own or plan to use these.
2. Scorpion EXO-AT950
Features:
| Shell: | Advanced LG Polycarbonate | Shield: | Optically Clear Removable EverClear No-Fog Face Shield (Anti-Scratch & 100% UV-A & UV-B Protection) |
| Motion Energy Distribution System (M.E.D.S.): | Dual-Density Advanced Multi-Layer EPS | Interior: | Soft, Antimicrobial KwikWick II, Moisture-Wicking Liner Material |
| Safety Certification: | DOT Approved Only. No ECE or Snell Rating | Visor: | SpeedView Drop-Down Internal Sun Visor |
| Color: | Core, Sky, Sport, Campanero | Size: | XS-XXL (3 Shell Sizes) |
| Warranty: | 5 Years | Weight: | 3.8 lbs. (Medium) |
| Included: | Ellip-Tec Ratchet System, Communication System Speaker Pockets, Removable Block Off Plates |
The EXO-AT950 is a DOT-rated versatile dual-sport and adventure lid with a removable interior, peak, chin curtain, and face shield.
It is this versatility that I feel makes this unique, but it’s actually the price that makes it one of my best entry-level choices. You get a lot for your money. The EXO-AT950 packs quite a lot of features in a budget helmet.
The shell is polycarbonate, an advanced formula, which claims stability and durability backed by dual-density multi-layer EPS and Scorpion’s KwikWick absorbent and antimicrobial lining.
The EXO-AT950 is anything but new on the market, having been retailed for close to half a decade, enough time to earn it stunning consumer reviews that bolster buying confidence.
3. Sedici Sistema II Horizon
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Features:
| Shell: | Fiberglass and DuPont™ Kevlar® Construction | Shield: | Anti-Scratch Polycarbonate Pinlock Ready (Pinlock Insert Sold Separately) Face Shield |
| Motion Energy Distribution System (M.E.D.S.): | Dual-Density EPS Liner (4 EPS Liner Sizes: XS-SM, MD-LG, XL-2XL, 3XL) | Interior: | Antimicrobial, Moisture-Wicking Removable, Washable Multi-Density Cheek Pads |
| Safety Certification: | DOT and ECE-22.05 Standards | Visor: | Quick Release Dark Smoke Drop-Down Inner Sun Visor |
| Color: | Gray/Black/Hi-Viz Yellow, Gray/Black/Red, Sand/Black/Gray | Size: | 2 Shell Sizes: XS-LG and XL-2XL |
| Shape: | Intermediate Oval | Weight: | 3.7 lbs. (Medium) |
| Included: | 3 Rear Exhaust Vents, 2 Position High Flow Chin Vent Channels, Double D-Ring Chin Strap |
One of our top picks, the Sistema II Horizon is a killer value.
The helmet, a blend of fiberglass and aramid fibers, received some TL&C from the power house’s (Sedici) design labs to ensure a smoother lamina flow through the air compared to the original Sistema, reducing those irritating wobble movements when shoulder checking above 70mph.
We like that the new Sedici helmet offers superior ventilation through the smarter chin, top vents, and functional exhaust value, on the rear spoiler. In all matters of comfort, it’s superior because it also features adjustable temple padding and a 5mm margin to adjust for the forehead to get the fit just right.
I would buy the Sedici Sistema II Horizon just for its moisture-wicking inner lining and that its insides are removable, swappable, and washable. Also, the inbuilt drop-down sun visor makes a worthwhile companion when chasing sunsets on the horizon.
4. Fly Racing Street Odyssey
Features:
| Shell: | Advanced Lightweight Polycarbonate Blend Shell | Shield: | 3-Position Optically Clear, Anti-Fog, and Scratch Resistance Face Shield. Optional Pinlock |
| Motion Energy Distribution System (M.E.D.S.): | Dual Density EPS | Interior: | Quick-Dry® Comfort Liner and Cheeks Pads |
| Safety Certification: | DOT & ECE Certified in Closed Position Only | Visor: | Tinted Drop-Down Inner Sun Visor. 100% UVA/B Protection Up to 400 Nanometers |
| Color: | White, Black, Gray | Size: | 2 Shell Sizes |
| Design: | 2 in 1 Modular Design System: Street Mode/ADV Mode with Peak Visor | Weight: | 3.86 lbs. (Medium) |
| Included: | 2 Point Super-Vent System, Communication System Speaker Pockets, Integrated Exhaust Vent |
Fly Racing has been working on dirt-bike-oriented helmets and has learned a thing or two about dissipation, comfort, and longevity to come up with the Street Odyssey.
The Street Odyssey belongs to the modular adventure category, and it’s meant for motorcycles with windscreens rather than those without. However, we like that their sun peak may be removed to wear it as a pure street helmet, and I ascertained that both setups have requisite aerodynamics to prevent the helmet from rising.
The lightweight polycarbonate shell has been mixed with additional fibers and resins for added durability over plain polycarbonate. Dual-density, multi-layer EPS foam lines the shell for maximum protection. A drop-down sun visor is standard, and the visor is contoured to provide ADV riders with a superior front vertical perspective.
The aperture is designed for SuperMoto goggles, although it is a little tiny for the larger pairs.
Mid-Range: Best Modular Motorcycle Helmets Between $300 and $500
You can purchase an amazing helmet with exceptional protection, fantastic features, aesthetics, and high comfort levels for $300-$500.
5. LS2 Valiant II
Features:
| Shell: | Kinetic Polymer Alloy (KPA) Shell | Shield: | Pinlock-Ready Face Shield |
| Fastener: | ‘Type 2’ Micrometric Buckle | Interior: | All-Day Comfortable, Removable, Washable, Moisture Wicking Liner |
| Safety Certification: | DOT & ECE Approved | Visor: | Built-In Drop-Down Sun Visor |
| Warranty: | 5 Years | Size: | 2 Shell Sizes: XS-XXL |
| Shape: | Long Oval Fitment | Weight: | 3.75 lbs. (Avg.) |
| Color: | Black, White, Gray, Matte Titanium, Silver |
LS2’s Valiant modular helmet was a huge hit when it originally came out. The Valiant II, very similar to the Shark Evo range, is the second iteration of that well-known model.
It’s inexpensive, robust, and lightweight, thanks to a unique Kinetic Polymer Alloy (KPA) composite shell. KPA helmets have designed-in flexibility and a penetration resistance that meets or exceeds the best-known composites for ultimate energy dispersion while maintaining an extremely low weight.
On the interior, the Valiant II uses a high-tech comfort liner with moisture-wicking materials and thermo-formed cushioning. The thermo-formed pads provide a snug fit while increasing comfort and breathability. A system of intakes and exhaust openings allows for optimal airflow without causing excessive noise. Even at high speeds, the helmet is fairly quiet.
This is worth considering if you’re searching for an economical DOT-certified flip-up helmet that provides a pleasant and silent ride, especially if you don’t like the double D-rings. I always find them a bit awkward with numb hands in the depth of winter. The LS2 Valiant II has a ‘type 2’ micrometric buckle.
6. Bell SRT
Features:
| Shell: | Fiberglass Composite Shell Construction | Shield: | Class 1 Optics Panovision Face Shield |
| Shape: | Intermediate Oval | Interior: | Removable, Washable Antibacterial Interior |
| Safety Certification: | DOT Approved Only | Visor: | Left-Side Slide Lever Drop-Down Sun Visor |
| Color: | Black, Matte Black, White | Size: | 2 Shell Sizes: XS-L & XL-3XL (U.S.) |
| Warranty: | 5 Years | Weight: | 3.89 lbs. |
| Included: | Speaker Pockets, Glasses Groove, Recessed EPS Speaker Pockets |
A true predator, as I call it, the Bell SRT is suitable for touring, plus whatever else.
Bell Helmets may not immediately spring to mind when you think about modular helmets, but they do exist! The SRT takes Bell’s extensive experience in designing sports helmets and applies it to this clever touring-friendly flip-up with a low-price tag. It has several quality features that make it worthy of our list, one being that it’s built on a lightweight composite shell.
The outside of the SRT has a broad Panovision face shield with class one optics, in addition to the convenient flip-up chin bar mechanism. Unfortunately, the shield might use a few more detents for a more varied ride, but that’s a minor quibble. If you’re riding in a hot environment, though, it can be a deal-breaker. The normal ventilation is enough but being able to open the shield in a few additional places would be really beneficial.
The SRT has a detachable and washable antibacterial lining, eyewear compatible cushioning, a drop-down sunscreen, and recessed EPS speaker pockets that can fit a variety of third-party communication devices on the interior but a few perks of choosing the feature-rich Bell SRT modular helmet.
7. Nolan N100-5
Features:
| Shell: | Polycarbonate Shell | Shield: | Clear, Ultrawide Pinlock fog-resistant Face Shield (Pinlock Insert Lens Included) |
| Fastener: | Micrometric 2 Fastener | Interior: | Clima Comfort, Breathable, Removable, and Washable Liner |
| Ventilation: | Adjustable Chin and Top Vents with Internal Air Channels and Air Flow Rear Extraction | Visor: | Integral, Smoked Drop-Down Sun Visor |
| Safety Certification: | DOT FMVSS 218 & ECE 22.05 Approved in Both Open and Closed Configurations | Size: | 2 Shell Sizes: 2XS-MD, LG-3XL |
| Color: | White, Flat Vulcan Gray, Matte Black, Metallic White, Slate Gray, Black | Weight: | 3.8 lbs. |
| Warranty: | 5 Year Warranty from Date of Purchase or 7 Years from Date of Manufacture |
For the most part, I find no differences between the new N100-5 Plus and the N100-5, which is designed for all riders.
The Nolan N100-5, in all its graphic helmet variations, is one of the finest value mid-range alternatives. It’s also one of the smallest modular systems, thanks to a joint seam that moves with the breeze, decreasing wind whistling. The reason for this is that, unlike other modular, the chin bar in the N100-5 elevates in an elliptical manner rather than a circular motion.
The EPS foam is dual-density and multi-layer, while the shell is pressure-formed polycarbonate. The cushioning and liner are completely detachable for cleaning. While the ventilation isn’t fantastic, it’s comparable to Scorpion in terms of efficiency via fewer apertures.
I like how the chin bar goes lower than usual and deflects more wind away from the neck than other modular. A sun visor is provided, as is practically every module.
8. Shark EVO-One 2 Solid
Features:
| Shell: | Injected Thermoplastic Resin Shell | Shield: | Quick-Release Kinematic, Max Vision Pinlock Face Shield |
| Fastener: | Double D-Ring Chin Buckle | Interior: | 3D Texture, CoolMax, Removable and Washable Interior |
| Safety Certification: | DOT FMVSS 218 & ECE 22.05 Approved | Visor: | Inner Anti-Scratch Sun Shield |
| Color: | White, Matte Black, Black, Matte Anthracite | Size: | 2 Shell Sizes: XS-MD, LG-XL |
| Warranty: | 5 Year Manufacturer Warranty | Weight: | 4.03 lbs. |
| Shape: | Round Oval |
For the past 35 years, Shark has been creating high-quality brain buckets. And the EVO-One 2 model, an elegant solution to a mostly non-existent problem, from the Marseille-based company is unquestionably a move toward luxury items.
The chin bar on most modular may be adjusted up to 90 degrees. This is not fully safe while riding, and in heavy gusts, the helmet may rise. But Shark designed the chin bar to swivel 180 degrees and fit snugly against the back of the helmet. This allows the helmet to transition from a modular full face to a three-quarter helmet while keeping out of the wind flow.
The EVO-One 2 is composed of resin-reinforced injected thermoplastic and dual-density, multi-layered EPS foam as predicted. The antimicrobial and sweat-wicking lining and cushioning are totally detachable and machine washable.
It has speaker indentations in the liner, but they are not very big and deep and may require you to modify them for thicker or larger speakers. Shark has its own “Sharktooth” Bluetooth system, but it is, strangely, not compatible with the Evo-One 2.
9. HJC RPHA 90S
Features:
| Shell: | Advanced P.I.M. Plus (Premium Integrated Matrix Plus) Construction | Shield: | Optically Superior Anti-Scratch Pinlock-Ready Face Shield |
| Motion Energy Distribution System (M.E.D.S.): | No EPS Padding, But It Does Latch Closed with Metal Pins and Locks Securely | Interior: | 3D Engineered, MultiCool, Moisture-wicking Interior |
| Safety Certification: | DOT FMVSS 218 & ECE 22.05 Approved | Visor: | Distortion-Free and Smoke-Tinted Sun Visor |
| Color: | Black, Matte Black, Matte White, White, Matte Anthracite, Pearl White, Matte Titanium | Size: | 3 Shell Sizes: XS/S, M/L, and XL/2XL |
| Warranty: | 5 Year Warranty from Date of Purchase or 7 Years from Date of Manufacture | Weight: | 3.82 lbs. (XL/2XL) |
| Included: | Bluetooth Communication Speaker Pockets, Double D-Ring Chin Strap |
The HJC RPHA 90S Carbon builds upon the success of the hyper-compact RPHA 90, but with some sportier graphics aimed at more lean-forward sportbike riders. The helmet screams high-quality materials, fit, and polish at the first glance. The carbon finish is immaculate, and the inside lined with antibacterial, moisture-wicking, quick-dry fabric is fantastic.
To build a modular lid that is both exceptionally lightweight and extremely strong, HJC used the same Advanced P.I.M. Plus shell technology, carbon fiber, and carbon-glass hybrid, and an eyeglass-friendly EPS, as the RPHA 11 Pro, the brand’s top-tier racing helmet, but at a lower price range.
The RPHA 90S also features an integrated sun shield (HJ-V9) with anti-scratch and anti-fog capabilities. The anti-scratch coating provides 95% UV protection. The visor deploys quickly and easily, and you can remove and reinstall it without tools.
I love the carbon finish and sleek contours which make this helmet stand out in addition to the compatibility with SMART HJC 10B and 20B Bluetooth comms.
10. NEXX X.Vilitur
Features:
| Shell: | X-MATRIX Aerodynamic Shell | Shield: | Optically Correct, Anti-Scratch, Pinlock-Ready Face Shield |
| Motion Energy Distribution System (M.E.D.S.): | All-Metal, Super Locker 360º Double Pivot System | Interior: | Removable, Washable, and Moisture-Wicking X. MART DRY Fabric Liners |
| Safety Certification: | DOT & ECE Rated | Visor: | Large, Smoke-Tinted X-SWIFT Quick Release Down-Drop Internal Visor |
| Color: | Black, White, Titanium, Matte Blue | Size: | 3 Shell Sizes: XS-S, M-L & XL-XXXL |
| Shape: | Intermediate Oval | Weight: | 3.93 lbs. |
| Included: | 2 Intake, 2 Exhaust Vents, Panoramic Eye Port, 2 Action Camera Bracket Mounts |
NEXX’s first modular helmet offers an aggressive and athletic modular helmet with strong, current features at a reasonable price. It’s a good deal in terms of value.
For instance, road noise in the X.Vilitur is rather quiet when compared to comparable modular in this price range, such as the Simpson Mod Bandit and the Nolan N100-5. But it is loud when compared to the much more costly Schuberth C4 Pro and Shoei Neotec II. However, with all the vents and exhausts closed, it will be noticeably quieter.
For $499 (solids), you are right to expect good construction and quality materials used throughout the helmet. I enjoy how the locking mechanism and chin bar/visor hinges are both sturdy and tactile. Both regions have a feeling of long-term viability.
I would recommend the X.Vilitur for riders looking for their first touring modular helmet.
High-End: Best Modular Motorcycle Helmets Over $500
Above $500 is expensive but not out of reach for professional and enthusiastic riders, and helmets that cost that much must be worth it.
11. Klim TK1200 Karbon Architek
Features:
| Shell: | Heat-polymerized Pre-Impregnated Carbon Fiber Weave | Shield: | Clear, Premium Photochromic Anti-Scratch Pinlock-Ready Face Shield |
| Motion Energy Distribution System (M.E.D.S.): | Break-away Chin Bar with the Modular System in the Open Position | Interior: | 3D Engineered, Removable, Washable, Moisture-Wicking Comfort Liner |
| Safety Certification: | DOT and ECE 22.05 Certified | Ventilation: | Intelligent Ventilation |
| Fastener: | Quick Release Micrometric Buckle Closure | Visor: | Transitions Shield |
| Size: | 1 Shell Size: S-2XL | Weight: | 3.26 lbs. |
| Color: | Carbon/Red, Carbon/Hi-Viz Yellow |
The TK1200, which is pronounced “climb” and billed as “the world’s first Grand Touring helmet,” is an ultra-advanced modular helmet with a carbon fiber shell created using the Idaho company’s proprietary Polymerization heat and molding process, resulting in a super lightweight yet extremely durable helmet.
Klim’s micrometric buckle securement system, hypoallergenic and detachable 3D cushioning, and unique photo-chromatic TRANSITIONS visors that automatically vary their tint based on (sun) lighting conditions are all included in the TK1200. Airflow is improved thanks to sophisticated vents and exhausts, yet it doesn’t disrupt your ride with excessive noise.
Klim employs cutting-edge Aero Acoustics technology to restrict background noise to a bare minimum. It’s no surprise the Klim managed to build a superb helmet for a price commensurate with Shoei Neotec 2 and Schuberth C4 Pro.
You can’t go wrong with this smart modular helmet provided it fits your head properly. Unfortunately, the Klim TK1200 Karbon comes in only one shell size.
12. Simpson Mod Bandit Carbon
Features:
| Shell: | 100% Carbon Fiber Shell | Shield: | Pinlock External Insert-Ready Shield (Inserts Not Included) |
| Shape: | Intermediate Oval | Interior: | Removable, antibacterial, Moisture Wicking Comfort Liner |
| Safety Certification: | DOT FMVSS 218 & ECE 22.05 Approved | Visor: | Smoke-Tinted Inner Sun Visor |
| Color: | Carbon | Size: | 2 Shell Sizes: XS-3XL |
| Ventilation: | Top & Rear | Weight: | 3.56 lbs. |
| Included: | Dual Adjustable Chin Vents, Integrated Communication Speaker, and Boom Microphone Pockets |
Simpson is known for its aggressive-looking moto and auto racing helmets, and with the Mod Bandit Carbon, the Italian manufacturer manages to keep its characteristic appearance while offering a more user-friendly brain bucket.
The ultra-lightweight carbon fiber shell is aerodynamically tailored for motorcycle riding and thoroughly vented for optimal airflow when you need it most. A drop-down sun visor makes riding in changing light conditions as simple as flipping a button, and integrated speaker and microphone pockets make it easy to attach to your preferred communication device.
While the aggressive form makes it one of the most intimidating-looking helmets on our list, it also contributes to wind noise if your bike lacks a windshield or wind deflector. Both looks and usefulness combine to create Mod Bandit, a fantastic helmet.
On the downside, round oval heads don’t fit well.
13. AGV Sport Modular Carbon
Features:
| Shell: | 100% Carbon Fiber Shell | Shield: | Maximum Vertical View (85°), Unmatched Horizontal View (190°), 100% Max Vision (120) Anti-Fog Tech |
| Ventilation: | Integrated Ventilation System (IVS) | Interior: | Ritmo Sanitized, 2Dry, Microsense Cheek Pads |
| Safety Certification: | DOT FMVSS 218 & ECE 22.05 Approved | Visor: | Visor Lock System (VLS) |
| Warranty: | Minimum 2-Years Warranty. Extendable When You Register Your Helmet with AGV Within 60 Days of Purchase | Motion Energy Distribution System (M.E.D.S.): | 5-Density EPS in 4 Sizes |
| Color: | Black, Matte Black | Size: | 3 Shell Sizes: XS-SM, MD-LG, XL-3XL |
| Weight: | 3.2lbs. | MSRP: | $749.95-$799.95 |
AGV’s Sportmodular billed as the world’s first all-carbon-fiber modular helmet, is arguably the most game-changing flip-up lid of all time, offering seriously top-notch levels of protection in an ultra-sleek package that weighs nearly half a pound less than the elite Italian brand’s Pista GP R (Rossi’s helmet!).
I was impressed with the Sportmodular’s performance overall. The Sportmodular Carbon combines the race-proven technology of the Pista GP R carbon helmet with the ease of a modular configuration, as you’d expect from AGV.
Sportmodular is available in three shell sizes and four advanced five-density EPS lining sizes. The visor is also the same as on the Pista helmet, which is interesting. The built-in sun visor accommodates Pinlock 120 inserts for optimum anti-fog performance. The shield may be swapped out without any tools.
While it is expensive, the overall design, workmanship, and fit and finish of this helmet are unparalleled. In fact, at 3.2 pounds, AGV’s Sportmodular is the lightest modular helmet in our list today.
14. Shoei Neotec 2
Features:
| Shell: | Advanced Integrated Matrix (AIM) Construction | Shield: | Optically Superior, CNS-3, Anti-Scratch Pinlock EVO Fog-Insert Face Shield |
| Motion Energy Distribution System (M.E.D.S.): | 360 Pivot Locking System with a Multi-Piece EPS Liner | Interior: | 3D Engineered, Removable, Washable Moisture-Wicking Interior |
| Safety Certification: | DOT FMVSS 218 Rated | Visor: | Built-in QSV-1 Inner Sun Shield |
| Color: | Black, Matte Black, Matte White, White, Matte Anthracite, Wine, Metallic Titanium, Blue | Size: | 4 Shell Sizes: From XS Through XXL |
| Warranty: | 5 Year Warranty from Date of Purchase or 7 Years from Date of Manufacture | Weight: | 4.12 lbs. |
| Included: | Bluetooth Communication Speaker Pockets |
The Shoei Neotec 2 is a high-end modular helmet that can compete with industry leaders like the Schuberth C4 Pro. They’re both the same price and of comparable quality, but in a straight comparison, the Shoei would win.
The modular lit has an aerodynamic shell with dual-layer EPS layers for added strength. This Shoei is sculpted with an intermediate oval form that should comfortably fit most motorcyclists.
One thing I like about the Neotec is its interior’s plushness. The AGV is just as nice. Neotec has a 3D-shaped and eyeglass-friendly comfort lining with ergonomically contoured cushions for improved safety, fit, and comfort.
It’s a quiet helmet compared to modular helmets, but it’s not quite as quiet as it might be for its price. Shoei, on the other hand, has stated that it has exchanged quiet for airflow. Ventilation is not an issue because of the usage of intakes and exhausts in conjunction with Shoei’s Vortex Generator. The Neotec 2 has been criticized for being overweight.
15. Schuberth C4 Pro Carbon
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Features:
| Shell: | 100% Carbon Fiber Shell | Shield: | Extra Wide Viewport, Anti-Fog Lens-Ready Face Shield |
| Motion Energy Distribution System (M.E.D.S.): | EPS Foam Impact Liner, Multi-Part Design | Interior: | CoolMax, Antibacterial, Washable, Fast-Drying Comfort Liner |
| Safety Certification: | DOT FMVSS 218 Certified | Visor: | Integrated One Touch Sun Visor |
| Color: | White, Yellow | Size: | 2 Shell Sizes: XL-3XL, XS-LG |
| Warranty: | 5 Years | Weight: | 3.91 lbs. |
| Included: | Pre-Installed Communication Speaker and Mic & Integrated Antenna |
Schuberth makes some of the best helmets on the globe, as evidenced by the fact that many F1 drivers wear the German brand’s helmets, and the C4 Pro helmet perfectly captures the company’s characteristic qualities.
The Schuberth C4 Pro is made of particularly developed EPS foam that is arranged in multi-zone portions and housed in a carbon fiber shell. In addition, they collaborated with SENA to pre-install a microphone, speakers, and a range-extending antenna in the helmet.
This is compatible with Schuberth’s SC1 system, an optional add-on that provides complete connectivity via Sena connectivity systems. It also includes two glove-operable buttons directly beneath the sun visor slider and supports voice commands.
If you can handle the higher weight in exchange for robust protection, excellent engineering, and innovative technology, this is the helmet for you. The Schuberth C4 isn’t really any slimmer FYI.
How to Choose a Modular Helmet You Will Love?
The guide to buying the best motorcycle helmet remains the same. So, if you missed our Motorcycle Helmet 101 Class, we suggest you start there. However, modular helmets are slightly different from regular ones and present a few new areas of consideration because of their, well, modular design. Here is what matters the most.
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- Shell and Construction: The outer skin of every helmet determines its protective abilities, weight, and durability. Over the years, we’ve moved from fiberglass to more affordable yet equally dissipative materials like polycarbonates and composites as the standard. The construction of the chin bar matters as much as the main shell.
- Safety Rating and Certification: Every manufacturer will claim that their helmet is the best. There is no objective way of testing helmets on your own to determine their relative safety index in common crash scenarios. For this, you can rely on several certification bodies and government agencies such as the Department of Transportation helmet rating (DOT) and Europe’s ECE certification.
- Lining: Liners are the different materials placed on the inner shell of the helmet to help with comfort and fit as well as blunt force dissipation in the event of a crash. Look at the choice of foam both for the EPS liner and whether the sponges are removable and swappable. Go for advanced finish lining materials with antimicrobial and moisture-wicking properties for a more comfortable hygienic helmet.
- Securing Strap: To keep your helmet in place and easily unbuckle it you can choose the tried and tested and arguably the most secure mechanism of latching on your helmet, the double D-ring. Other fancier mechanisms exist like the ratcheting lock and magnetic FIDLOCK buckle but none come close to the tensile strength of the double D-rings.
- Air Flow and Breathability: Helmet makers have had to reinvent the wheel to create functional airflow systems to drive the heat and moisture out. It’s amazing how easy it is to cool off in a modular helmet as you can just flip up the lid although there are situations when that is not plausible.
- Wind Noise: Before you decide on a helmet for your motorcycle voyage, you might have to try it for a month or so during which you can note the loudness with which wind screams at you and decide that you can live with it; especially important for moto-vloggers, and yes you can have both ventilation and negligible wind noise with the right choice of a modern helmet.
- Mass: The weight of your helmet changes depending on where you are on earth (fact) but the mass remains constant, so ensure you can live with the yoke you choose for your head. Modular helmets appear massive but fortunately, weigh at similar values to their full-faced competition despite having considerable additions to their construction.
- Style: For you to really love your helmet, you must endeavor to pick one that pleases your own eyes. It must communicate your usual mood when riding and hopefully tell us what kind of rider you are. Luckily there are helmets for every rider type and personality.
- Fit: In addition to being safe out there, you need to feel comfortable in your helmet. No matter how cool it looks, it might not fit and that is a deal-breaker. Just move on until you find something that matches your head and face shape, a snug fit with comfort.
- Additional Amenities: Helmets have come a long way from a hard-shell construction that you wear over your head to functional tech gear for offering infotainment on the go. Check for built-in drop-down sun visors, Bluetooth comms, and ports for mic and camera attachment.
Final Thoughts
As long as it meets required safety regulations, any helmet is better than nothing at all. With modular, like all helmets, a comfortable fit is the most important aspect to look for.
A modular helmet can be a good compromise between the protection of a full face and the breathability of an open-face helmet. Many riders love the ability to pop open the front of the helmet to grab some air, particularly if they ride in a hot climate.
Our advice is to choose a modular helmet from this list.
Information for this article was partially sourced and researched from the following authoritative Government, educational, corporate, and nonprofit organizations:
Mandating the use of motorcycle helmets
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