Ever wondered how you, as a motorcyclist, can get the shielding features of a full-face helmet along with the convenience of an open-face helmet? Well, your search ends here! The motorcycle gear industry has recently introduced convertible/flip-face motorcycle helmets, also known as a modular helmet.
With a tough outer shell and a padded liner, modular helmets are competing against full-face giants and open-face lids. Usually constructed of thermoplastic shells or carbon fibre, these helmets are designed to shoulder low-speed and high speed impacts. Modular shells also feature vents at the top of the head for quick cooling and padded lining for good fitting. This way in one flip, every rider can go from a full-face shell to an open-face ninja rider and vice versa!
Now, just because they are a recent addition does not mean they are a rare find. In fact, modular headgears have become such a popular choice among riders the only reason you would not be able to find one in the market is because it is sold out!
We have listed down 10 of the best modular motorcycle helmets below along with their pros and cons! If you are a beginner at motorbiking or it is your first time getting a modular helmet, we have great news for you! We have detailed all that you need to consider when buying a modular helmet along with some tips to take care of your lid.
The 10 Best Modular Motorcycle Helmets
With so many different choices available, it can get quite overwhelming to zero in on a modular helmet that is a perfect pick. Not to worry, we picked out 10 modular shells that are the best of the bunch and briefed a few details about them below, complete with their pros and cons!
1. Shoei Neotec II Helmet
Most Optimal – Best Padded
An optimal pick for street riders, the Shoei Neotec II modular helmet is a top-of-the-line lid sporting an aerodynamic shape with a stainless steel locking system housed in a DOT ECE approved Advanced Integrated Matrix shell! It also features a drop-down sun visor as well as an interior that has noise-isolator cheek pads.
Our Take
The Shoei Neotec II is the poster pick for a modular helmet, with its outclass safety, top-notch comfort and light weight, this helmet is a total winner!
2. Schuberth C5 Helmet
Best Overall – Best Networking
Top-rated at every marketplace, Schuberth helmets are a premium choice in every motorcyclist’s gear! Constructed with a proprietary fiber glass shell, this modular helmet is the definition of impact protective. It has a extra large lens, great ventilation and integrates a speaker and microphone which allows riders one-touch control for calls, music and more.
Our Take
The Schuberth C5 Helmet is one of the top modular shells available, it’s aerodynamics, durability and networking system allows riders to be safe and connected while cruising on smooth roads and speeding through the hills.
3. Sena Impulse Modular Mesh Intercom Helmet
Best Bluetooth Range – Most Durable
The toughest sport-themed helmet in the market, the Sena Impulse Mesh Intercom modular helmet features an ABS shell and quick-release chin guard that reduces impact injury, a removable as well as replaceable liner and ear protectors for convenience. In addition, it integrates Bluetooth technology for hands-free communication, capable of 18 hours of phone talk time, 4-way intercom and 110 hours standby.
Our Take
The YEMA YM-926 is a must-have for motorcyclists that need a convenient, exciting, and easy-wear helmet that will support their speedy rides.
4. Simpson MOD Bandit
Editor’s Choice – Best Designed
A recent addition to the market, the Simpson MOD Bandit modular helmet has been lauded for its classic shell design, molded using a tri-composite blend as well as carbon fiber for premium impact protection. It includes an all-metal chin bar locking system, drop-down sun visor, and multiple top, bottom, and rear vents.
Our Take
The Simpson MOD Bandit modular helmet is an all-in-one helmet featuring a cool design, premium features, and great value for money. It is lightweight, quiet, and perfect for riders that prefer convenience.
5. SHARK EVO-One 2 Yari Helmet
Best Head Shape – Most Easy to Maintain
Another premium helmet in the run, the SHARK EVO One-2 modular helmet features a thermoplastic resin shell with high-density EPS foam and an intermediate oval shape, fitting most riders comfortably. The great closure system on the visor, standard venting and reduced noise levels integrated into this modular shell for an average cost change the game!
Our Take
The Shark EVO-One 2 modular shell is durable, comfortable and easy-to-maintain featuring a nice head shape, breathable lining and an average weight. It is a good helmet for beginner riders that need an all-rounder.
6. BELL SRT-Mod Helmet
Premium Choice – Most Comfortable
The best pick for high-speed riders, the BELL SRT-Modular helmet is a flip-face version of Bell’s most famous SRT helmets! It features a lightweight, fiberglass shell with a great venting system as well as a convenient visor integration. The interior lining is well-padded, anti-bacterial, and eyewear-compatible.
Our Take
The BELL SRT-Modular helmet is a premium convertible helmet offering top-notch safety, cooling, and shield features at a reasonable price, perfect for riders that chase speed and love long drives.
7. LS2 Valiant Helmet
Best Technology – Most Aerodynamic
A revolutionary introduction in the market, the LS2 Valiant modular features a 180-degree flip-front design which locks the chin bar at the rear of the helmet to make it open-face and reduce neck strain by decreasing wind drag! With a DOT certified aerodynamic shell design, an integrated sun visor and a great vent system, there is no reason why this helmet would not be a good pick.
Our Take
The LS2 Valiant modular helmet is a comfortable, reasonable and optimally safe lid.
8. Sedici Sistema II MIPS
Best Protection – Most Accurate Sizing
Most popular choice among dirt bike riders, the Sedici Sistema II MIPS modular is an adventure-focused helmet. With an aerodynamic lightweight composite shell, reinforced chin strap, multi-density EPS foam inside and plenty of adjustable vents, this immensely durable helmet is an optimal choice. Also, this Sedici helmet features removable liner, washable padding and extra space for glasses!
Our Take
The Sedici Sistema II MIPS is a must-have for motorcyclists that need a convenient, exciting and easy-wear helmet that will support their speedy rides.
9. Scorpion EXO-AT950
Best Value for Money – Most Versatile
Leading in versatility, the Scorpion EXO-AT950 modular is an adventure/dual-sport helmet. With an LG polycarbonate structure, removable peak, face shield and plenty of vents, this helmet is the best pick for long-distance riders. Also, it features an internal sun shield and the chin strap and interior lining is removable!
Our Take
The Scorpion EXO-AT950 ticks all the boxes for motorcyclists that love adventure and need a strong, cooling, anti-UV helmet that will support their rides on tough terrains. The helmet is definitely worth every buck spent on it.
10. BILT Nomad Helmet
Recommended by Experts – Most Budget-Friendly
Recommended by many Formula One drivers, the BILT Nomad modular has an amazing sleek design featuring a sturdy injection-molded shell with an easily adjustable vent system in the lightest weight possible. An internal sun visor with a sliding lever and an excellent chin strap retention system.
Our Take
The BILT Nomad is an excellent addition to any motorcyclists gear, its durable exterior, convenient features, communication access and comfortable interior prove this modular shell is next level!
What To Consider Before Buying A Modular Motorcycle Helmet
Modular or convertible/flip-up motorcycle helmets are more complex in structure than any other type of helmet, as they are new in the market and not much has been reviewed about them. So, knowing what to look for when going to purchase one is going to help you decide what fits your needs best. Here are a few things to keep in mind before zeroing in on any motorcycle helmet:
Safety Protocol
Make sure to spot if the modular shell is DOT or ECE certified. DOT certified helmets are tested to see how much of a force can a helmet absorb in a crash and ECE certified helmets are designed to protect the head in a crash and resist impact forces. ECE testing is more rigorous and thorough than DOT and is the most up-to-date as it tests the overall helmet, unlike the DOT certification. Helmets that are not certified by either of the two safety protocols are better left alone, especially if you are a beginner rider.
Comfort
Look for a motorcycle helmet, especially modular, that are lightweight and feature comfortable fabric lining and padding on the inside. It helps in the overall fitment of the motorcycle helmet on the head and minimizes neck strain, benefiting especially on long rides.
Head Shape
When finding the right fit on a helmet, it is important to know what head shape it is constructed for. Generally, modular shells come in three sizes. The most common find is an intermediate oval as it usually fits most head shapes. For riders with a longer head shape, the long oval size will fit well and decrease pressure on the forehead, although it is hard to find, it is worth the effort to find one for good fitting. The rarest helmet size is the round modular, made for riders with spherical heads, it reduces pressure on the temple.
Construction
The shell material on a modular headgear is one of the best ways to judge a lid. If it is constructed of polycarbonate, it will be tough, resistant to impact and perform well on low speed impacts. If the shell is made of carbon fibre, the helmet will be durable, expensive and incredibly lightweight.
However, if it is designed in fiberglass and aramid fibers, the exterior of the helmet is going to perform well on high speed impacts, absorb impact energies and be flexible. Polycarbonate shell material are better suited for beginners, carbon fibre exteriors are high-end and fibreglass helmets are used by racers.
Interior
The lining on a helmet is a for-sure way to have a good fitting on a helmet and improve your experience riding through the rough roads. Make sure the inner lining is removable, replaceable and anti-bacterial. As a bonus, look for padding that is anti-sweat or water proof so it wicks away any moisture and keeps the head cool on a long ride.
Some interior lining also come with grooves to fit eyeglasses, if your pick of a modular shell does not feature it, purchase a size bigger and that should work out splendidly! Good padding also improves impact safety.
Visor System
Having a good visor system is an added protection from dust, wind rush and sun glares. Modular motorcycle helmets usually feature two kinds of visors, one is a clear face shield that helps eliminate fog, clear up your vision in case of a storm and protect against dust mites.
The other is a smoke-tinted sun visor which protects your eyes against harsh UV rays, dims the sun glare and helps you see better on a hot summer day. Some helmets will also feature a visor system that allows peripheral vision, adjusts easily for good airflow and blocks out the rushing wind noise.
Chin Guard
The highlight of a modular shell is its removable chin bar that allows riders the freedom to ride with their helmet open-face or have it styled as a full-face. As striking of a feature as it sounds, make sure the helmet you pick has a chin guard that has a good lock system in place, in case of an impact but at the same time, is also easy to flip up, in case you feel too hot inside the helmet or would like to communicate with friends. If it comes with a chin strap, it is a much better pick.
Noise
Modular headgear’s are quite a quiet helmet, after full-face motorcycle helmets. Noise is another important factor to consider when in the market for helmets, it can drastically make or break your experience speeding on the road. A helmet that fits better on you will keep away noise, help you talk on the bluetooth clearly and hear navigation signals without needing any breaks.
Make sure your helmet is aerodynamic, padded well and has space for you to insert extra foam padding inside if necessary. It is worth it to invest in a modular shell that reduces noise levels.
How To Take Care Of A Modular Motorcycle Helmet
Motorcycle helmets, especially modular or convertibles, are usually very easy to maintain and can last for years when taken care of properly.
To clean the exterior surface, all you need is a mild soap, some water and a clean rag to get any dust or grime off. Make sure the water is at normal temperature as too hot can melt away the glue that keeps the structure together and too cold can compress it. Also, remember to cover it with the given drawstring hamper when storing off the bike to keep bugs away. Keep the helmet away from the dishwasher
When it comes to the interior lining and vents, do not clean with harsh solvents or detergents, a sponge lightly soaked in water is enough to get it clean. After sponging it down, turn the knobs at the back and let the air out. Then, clean the vents by using compressed air to remove any dirt. Also, do not store your riding gloves inside the helmet when off the bike as any residual fuel and velcro attachments can ruin the lining.
Lastly, embellishing the modular shell with stickers, glitter or paint may seem fun but it is not recommended and can damage the smooth surface of the shell which is going to decrease the safety level upon any impact. Remember a helmet slides on the ground to protect against any impact, any residual glue is going to reduce its safety and induce friction. Experts recommend upgrading the helmet every five years unless it is involved in a crash, then replace it immediately even if it appears to be unscathed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are modular or convertible motorcycle helmets safe to wear?
Yes, modular or convertible motorcycle helmets are incredibly popular among riders that prefer the flexibility of having their chin guard up on a hot summer day and enjoying the benefits of a full-face helmet while riding through tough terrains. Modular helmets are versatile, safe, and generally meant for experienced riders to wear, rather than beginner motorcyclists.
What is the best modular motorcycle helmet available?
When it comes to motorcycle helmets, there really is no way to answer which is the ‘best’ of the best as each helmet will perform differently on every head. Regardless, there are modular helmets that have been well received for different factors. If you are looking for a sporty modular helmet, the AGV Sportmodular is a game-changing helmet and if you prefer a helmet that is quiet, the Schuberth C4 Pro is definitely the one for you but if you need a lightweight helmet, the X-Lite X-1005 Ultra Carbon helmet is the way to go!
Can a modular helmet be worn with eyeglasses?
Of course, modular or convertible motorcycle helmets come in various sizes and shapes to accommodate every rider and like all types of helmets, have built-in grooves in the interior lining for eyeglasses. If there is no mention of eyewear accessibility, make sure to get a size bigger so there is plenty of room to fit in eyeglasses or sunglasses and protect the eyes from the sun.
Final Thoughts
The motorcycle gear industry has been coming up with top-notch, revolutionizing and game-changing helmets with technologies that meet every rider’s needs. Some are more impact protective, few are inclusively made while others may be extra quiet, it all comes down to your preference as a rider. All the helmets serve to protect the noggin so make sure to choose the right shell material.
In this product guide, we made sure to include the best modular motorcycle helmets from the lightest and the quietest to the most modern and the most versatile helmets so your need for speed can be actualized in the best way possible, even if you are a beginner!
Mark Anderson is a trusted expert with over 25 years of riding experience. At 56, his deep knowledge of long-distance touring and participation in major motorcycle rallies makes him a reliable source for gear recommendations on ProtectiveGearz. Mark’s decades of firsthand experience ensure his advice is authoritative and valuable to riders seeking expert guidance.
