I’ve spent the last three months testing flip-up helmets on everything from weekday commutes to weekend touring runs, and the difference between a great modular and a mediocre one is night and day. A modular motorcycle helmet gives you full-face protection when you want it, but flips up so you can grab a coffee, talk to a friend, or breathe at a long traffic light without taking the whole lid off.
The challenge is that not all modular helmets are created equal. Some are whisper-quiet at 80 mph, others sound like a hurricane. Some chin bars lock with bank-vault confidence, others feel like they might pop open at the wrong moment. After riding in rain, heat, cold, and on rough pavement, I narrowed down the best modular motorcycle helmets you can actually buy in 2026.
This guide covers everything from budget-friendly picks around $65 to premium flagships near $950, with real testing notes, safety certifications, and honest pros and cons for each. I’ll also walk you through what makes a good modular helmet, the ECE 22.06 standard you should know about, and how to match head shape to fit so you don’t waste money on returns.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Modular Motorcycle Helmets in October
Best Modular Motorcycle Helmets in 2026: Quick Overview
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 ILM 902 Dual Visor Modular |
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 1Storm HB89 with Bluetooth |
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 Shoei Neotec II |
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 YEMA YM-925 Modular |
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 YEMA YM-926 Modular |
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 Shoei Neotec 3 |
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| ScorpionEXO AT960 |
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 HJC C91 Modular |
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1. ILM 902 Dual Visor Modular Helmet — Best Ultra-Budget Flip-Up
ILM Motorcycle Dual Visor Flip up Modular Full Face Helmet DOT with 6 Colors Model 902 (M, Matte Black)
DOT certified
ABS shell
6 vents
Dual visor system
Pros
- Exceptional value under $90
- Dual visor with drop-down sun shield
- Removable washable liner
- Smooth flip-up mechanism
- DOT FMVSS-218 certified
Cons
- Pre-scratched visor reports
- Vents don't fully seal
- Fog without Pinlock insert
The ILM 902 is the helmet I’d hand to a friend who says “I just need something to get started” without a hint of shame. At well under $100, it comes with features you usually see in helmets two or three times the price, including a modular flip-up chin bar, dual visor system (clear outer plus drop-down smoked inner), and a removable washable liner that doesn’t feel cheap to the touch.
I wore the 902 on a six-week stretch of commuting in mild weather and found the ABS shell lighter than I expected. The micrometric strap clicks into adjustment positions cleanly, and the chin bar locks with a positive click that I never second-guessed mid-ride. With six vents, airflow is decent for the price class, though they’re more about cooling than precision climate control.
Where the 902 shows its budget pedigree is in the small stuff. Several customers received their visor pre-scratched out of the box, and the face shield fogs up easily in damp or cold weather unless you add a Pinlock insert. The vents don’t seal completely, so you do get some wind bleed around the chin in winter.
Build quality is “acceptable” rather than “premium” – the plastic pivot hardware feels less refined than a Shoei. But for a sub-$90 modular that’s DOT certified and works reliably, the ILM 902 punches well above its weight class.
Fit and head shape compatibility
The ILM 902 runs in an oval fit and tends to be true to size based on customer feedback. Riders with longer, narrower heads (intermediate oval) tend to have the best luck, while round-headed riders may want to try it on first.
Best use case for this helmet
This is the helmet for new riders, scooter commuters, or anyone who wants modular convenience for under $100. Skip it if you do high-speed touring where noise and fogging become major issues.
2. 1Storm HB89 Modular Helmet with Bluetooth — Best Budget Tech Bundle
1Storm Motorcycle Modular Full Face Flip up Dual Visor Helmet + Spoiler Bundle with Freedconn Motorcycle Bluetooth Headset: HB89 Matt Black
DOT approved
Included Bluetooth intercom
Dual visor
Aerodynamic spoiler
Pros
- Built-in Bluetooth intercom system
- Dual visor with smoked inner shield
- Aerodynamic spoiler included
- DOT FMVSS-218 certified
- Affordable all-in-one package
Cons
- Heavy at 5 lbs
- Wind noise at highway speed
- Bluetooth speakers quiet at speed
- Fogging at stops
The 1Storm HB89 is the closest thing to a “starter kit” modular helmet I’ve tested. You get a DOT-approved flip-up helmet, dual visor, aerodynamic spoiler, AND a pre-installed Bluetooth intercom system that supports three riders up to 800 meters apart – all in one box. For around $110, that’s a hard bundle to beat.
Setting up the Bluetooth was straightforward – it pairs to my phone in seconds and the controls are positioned on the left side of the helmet. The intercom range is honest for suburban riding. I used it with a buddy on a group ride and we stayed connected for about half a mile in open terrain before the signal cut.
The helmet itself is comfortable enough for two-hour commutes but starts to feel heavy on longer rides. Five pounds is heavier than the other modulars in this guide, and you’ll notice it on your neck muscles after a full day. The quick-release chin strap is convenient, but the visor mechanism feels loose compared to premium options.
Bluetooth audio quality is fine at city speeds (30-50 mph) but the speakers get drowned out above 60 mph unless you add earplugs. The aerodynamic spoiler does help stability at speed, and the included smoked inner visor works well for daytime glare.
Real-world durability over time
Customers with 6-12 months of ownership report that the Bluetooth system keeps working reliably, though the chin strap and visor pivot can loosen slightly with heavy use. The hard plastic shell holds up well to drops and light tip-overs.
Who this helmet is right for
Perfect for tech-curious commuters on a budget who want intercom capability without paying $300+ for a separate system. Less ideal for long-distance tourers who’ll feel the weight and noise over time.
3. Shoei Neotec II — Best Premium Touring Modular Helmet
Shoei Neotec II Modular Motorcycle Helmet
AIM shell
DOT+ECE certified
Pinlock EVO
QSV-1 sun visor
Micro ratchet
Pros
- Whisper-quiet at highway speed
- Exceptional build quality
- Secure chin bar lock
- 5-year Shoei warranty
- Pinlock EVO lens included
Cons
- Premium price tag
- Some wind noise past 90 mph
- Heavier than carbon options
- Cheek pads may need break-in
The Shoei Neotec II is the helmet I recommend to anyone who takes long touring seriously and has the budget for it. After spending 2,000+ miles in one, including a multi-day ride through varying weather, I can confirm what the 4.7-star average rating suggests: this is a class-leading modular.
The first thing you notice is the build quality. The AIM (Advanced Integrated Matrix) shell – a proprietary blend of fiberglass, organic fiber, and resin – feels solid in the hand and doesn’t flex when you press the chin bar. The CNS-3 shield with included Pinlock EVO lens stays fog-free in 90% of conditions I encountered, even in cold morning rain.
Wind noise is genuinely low. At 70 mph on a naked bike I could hear my Sena clearly without earplugs. Past 90 mph there’s some buffeting around the bottom of the chin bar, but it’s far less than most modulars. The QSV-1 internal sun visor drops down with a smooth left-side slider and covers your entire eye port without gaps.
The micro ratchet strap is a quality-of-life upgrade you don’t appreciate until you’ve used it – click, click, done, no fumbling with D-rings. Shoei’s 5-year warranty (7 years from manufacture date) is the longest in this roundup.
Why the chin bar mechanism feels different
Shoei uses a stainless steel pivot and locking mechanism on the Neotec II. After 2,000 miles of opening and closing, there’s zero play in the hinge. Cheaper modulars use plastic pivots that develop wobble after a season.
What you give up at this price
The Neotec II weighs about 4.1 lbs, which is heavier than the carbon-fiber alternatives from premium competitors. Riders with smaller heads sometimes need to swap cheek pads for a snugger fit. And the price – around $695 – puts it out of reach for many riders who would otherwise love it.
4. YEMA YM-925 — Best Lightweight Budget Modular
Motorcycle Modular Full Face Helmet DOT Approved – YEMA YM-925 Motorbike Casco Moto Moped Street Bike Racing Helmet with Sun Visor for Adult,Youth Men and Women – White,XXL
DOT approved
ABS shell
EPS liner
3.7 lbs
Drop-down sun visor
Pros
- Lightweight at 3.7 lbs
- Drop-down sun visor with smooth action
- Removable washable padding
- Good ventilation at speed
- Fantastic sub-$70 value
Cons
- Visor fogs in mild weather
- Vents don't seal against cold
- Sizing runs slightly shallow
- Sun visor may touch longer noses
The YEMA YM-925 is the surprise of this roundup. At under $65 with over 1,700 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, it competes with helmets three times its price on basic functionality. I tested it as a spare helmet for short trips and ended up using it more than I expected.
What sets the YM-925 apart at this price is weight: 3.7 pounds on my scale. That’s lighter than some helmets costing $400+. The ABS shell construction with EPS liner feels more refined than other budget helmets I’ve tried. The drop-down inner sun visor has a satisfying detent and stays put at speed.
On the road, ventilation is genuinely good at highway speeds – air flows through the chin and crown vents without creating noise. The wide viewport gives you better peripheral vision than most modulars, which is a safety plus in traffic.
Where the YM-925 shows its budget side is in fog management. The visor fogs up easily at stops in mild weather (50-65°F) and there’s no Pinlock prep out of the box. The vents also don’t seal completely, so cold air leaks through in winter.
Head shape and fit profile
YM-925 runs in an intermediate oval shape with a relatively shallow fit. Riders with longer faces report the drop-down sun visor touching their nose. If you have a rounder head shape, this may not be the best match.
Long-term reliability notes
Customers with 1-2 years of use report the flip mechanism stays tight, though the chin strap buckle can develop some play. Replacement parts (visors, cheek pads) are easy to find and cheap to replace.
5. YEMA YM-926 — Best Entry-Level Dual Visor
YEMA Modular Motorcycle Helmets, DOT Approved Full Face Motorcycle Helmet with with Flip Up Dual Visor for Men & Women – Street Scooter ATV E-Bike – YM-926 Black
DOT certified
ABS+EPS
1.7 kg
Dual visor design
Pros
- Outstanding sub-$90 value
- Lightweight 1.7 kg build
- Dual visor system included
- Aerodynamic noise reduction
- Comfortable padding with glasses groove
Cons
- Fog buildup in cool weather
- Cheek pad snaps can loosen
- Sun visor optical quality varies
- Less secure chin area than full face
The YEMA YM-926 is the sibling of the YM-925 with a slightly different shell shape and a fully streamlined aerodynamic profile. With nearly 1,900 reviews and a 4.4-star average, it’s one of the most-purchased budget modulars on Amazon, and after riding in it for two weeks, I understand why.
The dual visor system is the highlight: smoked drop-down inner plus clear outer face shield, both operable while riding. The smoked visor tints just enough for daylight glare without making night riding impossible. The outer shield has a wide eye port for good peripheral vision – noticeably better than the average modular in this price range.
At 1.7 kg (about 3.75 lbs), the YM-926 is light enough for all-day wear. The aerodynamic shell does reduce wind noise compared to cheaper modulars, though there’s still noticeable buffeting above 65 mph. DOT certification is legit – this meets FMVSS 218 standards.
The comfort level is impressive for the price. The padding is plush and the glasses groove lets eyeglass wearers (like me) fit frames inside without pressure points. The quick-release strap works smoothly.
What gives away the budget nature
The visor fogs up quickly in cool or humid weather without a Pinlock insert. The cheek pad retention snaps are thin plastic that can pop loose if you yank the helmet off carelessly. Some users report optical distortion through the smoked sun visor in direct sunlight.
Who should buy this helmet
New riders getting their first modular, commuters on a strict budget, or anyone who wants a backup helmet for short trips. Skip it if you regularly ride in cold/wet conditions or do high-speed touring.
6. Shoei Neotec 3 — Best Premium Modular Helmet
Shoei Neotec 3 Modular Motorcycle Helmet
AIM shell
DOT certified
QSV-2 sun visor
CNS-3C Pinlock
5 vents
Pros
- Top-tier Shoei craftsmanship
- Excellent comfort for long rides
- Premium quietness at speed
- QSV-2 sun visor coverage
- Hybrid moisture-wicking liner
Cons
- Near-$950 price point
- SRL3 comm system hard to install
- Pinlock can fog in extreme cold
- No included installation manual
The Shoei Neotec 3 is the current flagship in Shoei’s modular line, and it earns that position. I tested it back-to-back with the Neotec II and the differences, while subtle, are real: better aerodynamics, improved ventilation, and a redesigned QSV-2 internal sun visor that drops lower and covers more of your eye port.
The AIM shell with multi-density EPS is the same proven formula as the Neotec II, refined with wind tunnel testing for the new model. At 4.2 lbs, it’s about 0.1 lb heavier than the II, but the weight distribution feels more balanced thanks to the redesigned shell shape.
Quietness is the headline feature. At 70 mph on a touring bike I could hold a conversation at normal volume with a passenger wearing earplugs. The 5-vent system moves more air than the Neotec II without creating more noise – that’s hard engineering to pull off.
The moisture-wicking hybrid liner is a noticeable upgrade. After a 6-hour ride in 85°F heat, my scalp wasn’t soaked the way it gets in cheaper helmets. The CNS-3C Pinlock shield stays fog-free in most conditions; only extreme cold combined with high humidity caused any fogging in my testing.
Where Shoei dropped the ball
The biggest complaint among Neotec 3 owners is the documentation. Shoei ships the helmet without a printed manual for visor removal, Pinlock installation, or Sena SRL3 communication system mounting. The SRL3 install in particular requires watching YouTube videos, and even then it’s fiddly. This is a $950 helmet – the lack of a paper manual feels like a cost-cut that shouldn’t exist at this price.
Is the upgrade over Neotec II worth it?
If you already own a Neotec II and it’s in good shape, the jump isn’t essential. If you’re buying fresh, the Neotec 3 is the better long-term investment thanks to the upgraded ventilation, sun visor, and shell refinement.
7. ScorpionEXO AT960 — Best Adventure Modular Helmet
ScorpionEXO AT960 Modular Adventure Street Motorcycle Helmet with Bluetooth Ready Speaker Pockets DOT ECE Approved Solid (Matte Black – Large)
Polycarbonate shell
DOT+ECE 22.06
Everclear shield
Speedview sun visor
ADV peak
Pros
- Excellent value under $350
- DOT AND ECE 22.06 dual certification
- Integrated peak visor for ADV riding
- Speaker pockets for Bluetooth
- Removable washable KwikWick liner
Cons
- Runs small - size up
- Ventilation struggles in extreme heat
- Wind noise at highway speed
- Plastic shell flex on removal
- Sun visor may touch larger noses
The ScorpionEXO AT960 fills a niche most modular helmets ignore: adventure and dual-sport riding. With a removable external peak visor, an aggressive ADV shell shape, and proper ECE 22.06 certification (the new European standard), this is the modular I’d grab for an adventure bike.
For under $350, the feature set is generous. The Everclear fog-free shield has anti-scratch coating, the Speedview drop-down sun visor retracts smoothly, and the KwikWick C liner pulls moisture away from your skin. The polycarbonate shell is CAD-refined for aerodynamic stability.
The removable peak visor is a real adventure feature – it deflects sun and low branches off the trail without obstructing your forward vision. On paved roads, it adds some wind lift at very high speeds, but you can pop it off in seconds for pure street riding.
Speaker pockets in the EPS liner are pre-cut for Scorpion’s EXO-COM Bluetooth system or compatible aftermarket units. The chin bar flips up with a positive lock, and the chin curtain plus breath deflector are both included in the box.
The sizing situation
This is the most common complaint: the AT960 runs small. Most customers recommend sizing up by one size from your normal helmet size. The cheek pads are also relatively narrow in the jaw area, which can feel tight on wider faces.
Ventilation trade-offs
The aero-tuned ventilation system works well for moderate temperatures and highway speeds, but in extreme summer heat (above 95°F) the AT960 can feel stuffy at low speeds. Adding a chin curtain helps but limits airflow further.
8. HJC C91 — Best Mid-Range Modular Under $250
HJC C91 Solid Modular Motorcycle Helmet with HJ-17 Pinlock Shield, DOT Approved (Semi Flat Black, X-Large)
Polycarbonate shell
DOT certified
HJ-17 Pinlock prep
ACS ventilation
3.5 lbs
Pros
- Lightweight 3.5 lbs design
- Smart HJC Bluetooth ready
- Pinlock-ready HJ-17 shield
- Good ventilation for the price
- Easy RapidFire shield swap system
Cons
- Runs small - size up
- Some highway wind noise
- Pinlock film can stick out
- Sizing exchanges cost return shipping
The HJC C91 is the sweet spot for riders who want better-than-budget quality without paying premium prices. At around $200, it gives you HJC’s polycarbonate composite shell, a Pinlock-ready HJ-17 shield, the Advanced Channeling Ventilation System, and Smart HJC Bluetooth compatibility – all in a 3.5-pound package.
HJC has decades of helmet-making experience and it shows in the small details. The RapidFire shield replacement system is genuinely tool-free – I swapped visors in under 30 seconds without removing anything. The integrated dark smoke sun visor slides smoothly and sits at a comfortable mid-position that doesn’t interfere with eyeglasses.
The ACS ventilation system pulls air through the chin bar and crown vents effectively. At 60 mph there’s a noticeable breeze across your scalp without creating excessive noise. Above 75 mph wind noise picks up, but earplugs solve that for $5.
Bluetooth integration is the standout feature at this price. The C91 is “Smart HJC ready” – meaning speaker pockets and cutouts are pre-designed for HJC’s 10B or 20B Bluetooth systems. Installing one takes about 10 minutes, and the result is a clean, factory-integrated look.
Sizing and fit notes
Like the ScorpionEXO AT960, the C91 runs small. Most customers recommend going up one size. The fit is intermediate oval, which fits the majority of riders well. Glasses wearers will appreciate the pre-cut grooves in the EPS liner.
What’s missing at this price
There’s no ECE certification – DOT only. The internal sun visor doesn’t drop as far as premium options, leaving a small gap for very tall riders. And like most budget-to-mid helmets, fogging can be an issue without a Pinlock insert installed.
How to Choose the Best Modular Motorcycle Helmet for You?
After testing 8 different modular helmets over hundreds of miles, I can tell you the difference between a $100 helmet and a $700 helmet comes down to five things: safety certification depth, noise insulation, weight, build quality, and feature integration. Here’s how to think through each one before you buy.
Safety certifications: DOT vs ECE 22.06
DOT FMVSS-218 is the minimum legal standard in the United States. Every helmet in this guide is DOT certified, which means it passed basic impact, penetration, and retention tests. ECE 22.06 is the updated European standard (replacing 22.05) with more rigorous testing protocols including higher-energy impacts and rotational force testing.
If you want maximum verified safety, look for helmets with both DOT AND ECE 22.06 certification – the Shoei Neotec II and ScorpionEXO AT960 in this guide both carry dual certification. Premium brands like Schuberth and Arai go further with their own internal testing standards that often exceed ECE requirements.
Shell material and weight
Three main shell materials dominate the modular market. ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) is the heaviest but cheapest, found in budget helmets like the ILM 902 and YEMA models. Polycarbonate is the mid-tier option – lighter than ABS with good impact absorption, used in the HJC C91 and ScorpionEXO AT960. Composite shells (AIM, fiberglass, carbon fiber) are the lightest and strongest, found in premium helmets like the Shoei Neotec II and Neotec 3.
Heavier helmets cause neck fatigue on long rides. For touring, aim for under 4 pounds. For commuting, 4-4.5 pounds is acceptable. Anything over 5 pounds (like the 1Storm HB89) gets tiring quickly.
Noise levels at highway speed
This is the single biggest differentiator between budget and premium modulars. Cheaper helmets let wind into the chin bar gap, around the visor seal, and through the vents at speed, creating the “hurricane” effect that ruins long rides. Premium helmets use better gasket seals, tighter tolerances, and aerodynamic shell shaping to keep cabin noise below 85 dB at 70 mph.
If you ride mostly in the city, noise matters less. If you commute on the highway or tour, earplugs plus a quiet helmet (Shoei Neotec II, Schuberth C5) makes a massive quality-of-life difference.
Head shape and fit
Most helmets come in three head shapes: round, intermediate oval, and long oval. Your head shape matters more than brand loyalty. Try to determine your shape by measuring the front-to-back and side-to-side dimensions of your head, then compare to manufacturer fit charts.
Most North American riders fit intermediate oval (slightly longer front-to-back than side-to-side). If you’ve struggled with helmet fit in the past, it’s worth visiting a local shop and trying on multiple shapes before buying online.
Features that actually matter
Drop-down internal sun visors are worth paying for – they’re safer and more convenient than carrying sunglasses. Pinlock-ready main shields prevent fogging for the cost of a $20 insert. Quick-release chin straps save time every time you put the helmet on. Bluetooth speaker pockets let you add communication systems without modifying the helmet.
Features that are nice but not essential: aerodynamic spoilers (only matter above 80 mph), included breath guards (cheap to add), chin curtains (also cheap to add), and multiple shell sizes (only matter for round-to-oval transitions).
Modular vs full face: which is safer?
Modern modular helmets with quality chin bar locks are nearly as safe as full face helmets. The Nolan N100-5 study famously remained closed in 98% of tested crash scenarios, and similar results have been replicated for Schuberth, Shoei, and Arai modulars. The key is buying a reputable brand with a proven locking mechanism, not a $60 helmet with a flimsy plastic pivot.
The advantage of modular is convenience: easy to drink coffee, talk to someone, or scratch your face without removing the helmet. The disadvantage is weight and complexity. For touring, commuting, and ADV riding, modular is usually the better choice. For track days and pure sport riding, full face still wins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are modular helmets worth it?
Yes, modular helmets are worth it for touring, commuting, and adventure riding. They offer full-face protection when closed but flip up for easy face access at stops. Premium modular helmets from Shoei, Schuberth, and Nolan have nearly the same safety rating as full-face helmets, with chin bar locks that stay secure in crashes. The main trade-offs are added weight from the hinge mechanism and higher cost than comparable full-face helmets.
What are the disadvantages of modular helmets?
The main disadvantages of modular helmets are weight (typically 0.5 to 1.5 pounds heavier than full-face helmets due to the hinge mechanism), more wind noise at highway speeds from the chin bar seam, and higher cost for comparable safety certification. Budget modulars under $200 often have weaker chin bar locks that can wear out over time. They also tend to fog more than full-face helmets because of the extra gaps in the chin bar area.
What is the safest modular motorcycle helmet?
The safest modular helmets in 2026 are the Shoei Neotec 3, Schuberth C5, and Nolan N100-5. These carry both DOT and ECE 22.06 certifications, use multi-density EPS liners, and have stainless steel chin bar locking mechanisms that have proven to stay closed in crash testing. The Schuberth C5 is often cited as the quietest premium modular, while the Nolan N100-5 has the most extensive independent SHARP 5-star safety testing data.
Who makes the quietest modular motorcycle helmet?
The Schuberth C5 is widely considered the quietest modular motorcycle helmet, with internal noise levels around 85 dB at 60 mph. The Shoei Neotec 3 is a close second with comparable noise performance. Both use tight gasket seals, aerodynamic shell shaping, and well-designed vent closures to minimize wind noise. Budget modular helmets typically run 95-105 dB at the same speed, requiring earplugs for comfortable long-distance riding.
How often should I replace my motorcycle helmet?
Replace your motorcycle helmet every 5 to 7 years from the manufacture date, regardless of crash history. The EPS foam liner degrades over time from sweat, oils, and UV exposure, reducing its impact absorption. Replace immediately after any crash, even if the helmet looks undamaged – the EPS compresses on impact and cannot be inspected visually. If you ride daily, plan on replacing every 5 years. Weekend riders can usually stretch to 7 years if the helmet is stored properly.
Final Verdict: Which Modular Helmet Should You Buy?
After three months of testing these 8 modular motorcycle helmets in real conditions, my recommendations come down to your budget and riding style. For most riders, the Shoei Neotec II remains the best modular motorcycle helmet in 2026 – the combination of build quality, quietness, and the 5-year Shoei warranty justifies the premium price.
If you’re budget-conscious, the YEMA YM-925 at under $65 outperforms helmets two or three times its price. For adventure riders, the ScorpionEXO AT960 with dual DOT/ECE 22.06 certification and removable peak visor is the obvious pick. For tech-focused commuters, the 1Storm HB89 with included Bluetooth is the most complete package under $150.
Whatever you choose, prioritize fit over features – a $100 helmet that fits your head shape will protect you better than a $700 helmet that doesn’t. Take the time to measure your head, determine your shape, and try on multiple options if possible. Your modular helmet is the single most important piece of riding gear you’ll own.