The 7 Best Modular Motorcycle Helmets in 2023 – By Experts

Modular motorcycle helmets are very practical because you get 2 or 3 types of helmets in 1. If you use your motorcycle for multiple purposes like cruising and traveling, you’ll know how valuable these are.

Unlike regular motorcycle helmets, there are plenty of things to consider when it comes to modular ones, and in this article, I’ve compiled a list of the best modular motorcycle helmets with their pros and cons as well as crafted a help section that answers all the questions that you could be wondering about. Without further ado, let’s delve into it. 

Comparison Table:

Preview	Helmet	Rating	Price
Best Overall	HJC 980-613 IS-MAX II	Rating: 4.6/5	View On Amazon
Runner-Up	Bell Revolver Evo	Rating: 4.1/5	View On Amazon
Best for Communications	FreedConn BM2-S	Rating: 4.2/5	View On Amazon
Budget Pick	YEMA YM-925	Rating: 4.4/5	View On Amazon
Best Value for Money	1Storm HB89 Helmet	Rating: 4.6/5	View On Amazon
Most Convenient	LS2 Valiant Helmet	Rating: 4.8/5	View On Amazon
Quietest Modular Helmet	Shoei Neotec II	Rating: 4.6/5	View On Amazon

Now that I’ve quickly gone over the best options, let’s take the time to explore each one of them in detail to be able to make a proper comparison and decide on the best option. The 7 Best Modular Motorcycle Helmets in 2022

1. HJC 980-613 IS-MAX II – Best Overall

If you’re looking for guaranteed safety during your ride, the HJC 980-613 IS-MAX II is an excellent choice that comes at a reasonable price for what it has to offer. Not only does it meet the safety standards imposed by DOT, but it also surpasses them.

The HJC IS-MAX II’s shell is made from an advanced polycarbonate composite, which is why it’s so durable and impact-resistant despite its 5.25-pound weight. The adjustable chin bar is also made from an advanced polycarbonate composite and allows you to raise it seamlessly if you stop on the road.

Moreover, it’s equipped with two visors: a QuickSlide clear shield for the face and a SunShield that’s smoke-tinted to give you protection from the sun’s light.

What’s really impressive about it is its ventilation system with advanced channeling technology. This helmet helps you stay cool during your entire ride, especially that the back and front vents get rid of all the humidity and heat.

Finally, the cheek pads and liner are removable and machine-washable, which means that keeping this helmet clean and hygienic is as easy as it gets. Not to mention, the fabric is moisture-resistant and antibacterial, so there’s little to worry about in the first place.

It’s worth mentioning, though, that it fits wider heads with its oval shape, so keep that in mind if you’re considering it.

Bottom Line

Whether you’re looking for safety, durability, ventilation, adjustability, or affordability, you’ll find it with the HJC 980-613 IS-MAX II. There isn’t anything that it misses out on, and it even has a sleek design.

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2. Bell Revolver Evo – Runner-Up

If you’re looking for a modular helmet that provides the same protection level as that found on full-face ones, I highly recommend the Bell Revolver Evo. 

Living up to its name, Bell has released several medium and large sizes for this model, which means that you can find the one that perfectly fits you. The outer shell is made from a combination of polycarbonate and ABS. However, it’s not very lightweight at 5.5 pounds. 

Still, that means that the Bell provides you with incredible protection against severe injuries during crashes of high intensity. Despite that, it’s still pretty aerodynamic and doesn’t trouble you with any lifting or buffeting.

Furthermore, the Bell Revolver Evo comes with a SunShade visor that spares you the need for sunglasses and provides you with protection from the sun. This also means you won’t need to switch between face shields, something that not all modular helmets at this price level have to offer.

Not only that, but the Revolver Evo also comes with an excellent ventilation system that maintains the perfect airflow into your helmet to keep the entire head area cool. On top of that, there are vents that you can open during warmer rides to enhance airflow or close during colder rides. And Bell hasn’t forgotten about your audio experience as it comes with integrated speaker pockets.

In terms of durability, the Revolver Evo is coated with a NutraFog II shield that provides protection from scratches, fog, and UV rays. And for convenience, the interior is removable and washable, while removing the helmet itself is easy thanks to the mechanism that relies on pulling two levers.

Whether you own a touring bike, a street-sport motorcycle, or a cruiser, the Bell Revolver Evo would suit you just fine, provide sufficient protection, and help you rest assured about its quality, especially with its 5-year warranty.

Bottom Line

The Bell Revolver Evo gives riders an incredible set of features given the price range. From protection, design, features, and peace of mind, while riding, it simply has it all. Just keep in mind that it suits narrower heads when you’re considering.

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3. FreedConn BM2-S – Best for Communications

If you’re looking for a Bluetooth intercom function that’s built right into your modular helmet to facilitate communications, you’ll find none better than the FreedConn BM2-S. This helmet enables you to conduct hands-free calls to stay connected to family and friends while maintaining your safety on the road.

With that function, you can talk to two people with a maximum distance of 500 meters. The helmet is equipped with a noise-canceling mic and built-in speakers, allowing you to make the clearest calls, even on busy roads.

The Bluetooth 3.0 not only allows you to conduct calls, but also enables you to link your helmet to any Bluetooth-compatible device, including GPS, MP3 players, and cellphones. It’s also compatible with T-Rex, COLO, and T-COM Bluetooth headsets.

How impressive the helmet is doesn’t stop at the communications part as its outer shell is made from ABS, which is tough enough to provide proper protection without being too heavy at 5.85 pounds.

The FreedConn BM2-S comes with built-in goggles that protect your eyes from sunlight and a clear shield to protect your face from debris or little rocks that could fly toward you on the road. It’s also ventilated sufficiently enough not to make you want to take it off during long rides.

Finally, the removable and washable liner and cheek pads keep the helmet fresh, smelling nice, and clean.

Bottom Line

Are you a social rider that loves to stay connected to others during your rides? Then, you’ll find no helmet better than the FreedConn BM2-S with its top-notch communications system and an intercom functionality, especially not at its price level.

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4. YEMA YM-925 – Budget Pick

Combining affordability with a lightweight design, the YEMA YM-925 makes it very tough for any other modular helmet to compete. Though it’s made from ABS, which usually adds weight to helmets for extra durability, this one comes at only 3.7 pounds, making it the lightest and most affordable option on the list.

The ABS shell means that you get an aerodynamic design while the multi-density EPs liner ensures effective absorption of impact in case a sudden accident takes place. Though I would rather the helmet had more interior padding for better protection.

Still, the fact that the chin strap is reinforced and guarantees that the helmet would stay on your head is comforting. And despite that, the YEMA YM-925 is easy to put on and take off thanks to the quick-release buckle.

That’s not the only convenient thing about it, but so are the pads and liners which you can remove to wash and clean. Without too much padding, there’s room inside the helmet to fit Bluetooth speakers or glasses.

In terms of ventilation, the YEMA YM-925 comes with exhaust and intake vents that maintain sufficient airflow while the high-impact visor is resistant to UV rays and scratches, which keeps your vision clear throughout the ride.

Bottom Line

Affordable, protective, and lightweight, the YEMA YM-925 leaves nothing for the heart to desire. Also, it suits all vehicles, including cruisers, street bikes, and scooters.

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5. 1Storm HB89 Helmet – Best Value for Money

If you’re looking for an affordable helmet that suits casual motorcycling purposes and highways that aren’t too busy, the 1Storm HB89 would be a good choice for you. Despite its affordability, it provides you with sufficient protection and comfort.

The outer shell of the 1Storm HB89 is made from an aerodynamic thermoplastic alloy and ABS that is up to par with the DOT standards without compromising the lightweight design that keeps the helmet at 4 pounds.

On the interior, the helmet is equipped with a multi-density EPS construction that works on absorbing all impacts and protecting your head from injuries. And the best part is that the cheek pads and liner are removable, so you can wash them to keep your helmet fresh and clean.

I was particularly interested in the dual visor design that gives you visibility during your rides, whether during the day or night. The outer clean shield gives you visibility yet protects you from the elements while the inner, smoked one protects your eyes from the sun.

Another incredibly impressive feat on the 1Storm HB89 is the ventilation with six openings that allow cool air to flow while getting rid of hot air. And if you wish to take the helmet off to cool down even further, the quick-release buckle would help you do that in a matter of seconds.

Bottom Line

The 1Storm HB89 is the best modular motorcycle helmet for casual riders that don’t hit busy highways often. It has great ventilation to keep the cool air flowing while ridding you of hot air.

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6. LS2 Valiant Helmet – Most Convenient

The LS2 Valiant is one of those helmets that look incredible and stylish when paired with a Harley Davidson. It suits extended rides and provides protection throughout trips with the twin shield system and the outer shell made of an ultra-light kinetic polymer alloy. 

Also, it comes with a 180-degree flip design that’s quite unique and convenient. This design allows you to change between the open-face and full-face mode seamlessly. Its design also helps maintain quietness so that you can really enjoy a smooth ride.

The LS2 Valian’s FogFighter-treated shield is scratch-resistant and doesn’t distort your vision. Moreover, the interior is removable and washable, and the thermo-form lining uses no glues or chemicals to weld the parts of the helmet together or the outer material to the interior foam.

And if you wish to take the helmet off, all you have to do is use the quick-release chin strap, which fits the helmet tightly yet keeps it comfortable. 

If you’re worried about ventilation, you can rest assured with the dynamic flow-through system that keeps the interior cool throughout the ride by flushing out hot air. Finally, the LS2 Valiant is compatible with any SENA Bluetooth device.

Bottom Line

Though the LS2 Valiant may seem like a bit of a pricey choice when you compare it to other options on the list, I think it deserves every penny. Its design is lightweight, sleek, and convenient, while it offers plenty of extras that make your ride more enjoyable.

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7. Shoei Neotec II – Quietest Modular Helmet

Made of fiberglass, the Shoei Neotec II is one of the most durable options on this list. It’s also incredibly aerodynamic, though it’s a little heavy at 5 pounds.

The Shoei Neotec II comes with noise-isolating cheek pads with sealed openings around the neck as well as a Vortex Generator face cover and Aero Deflector chin bar. All of these elements combine to give you excellent isolation from any noise out there.

Moreover, the micro-ratchet chin strap’s interlocking mechanism provides easy and quick release or closure with just the press of a button.

The ventilation on the Shoei Neotec II is also pretty solid with large and upper and lower vents, while the built-in sun shield with a 3D-injection molded sliding inner one protects your eyes from the sun.

Bottom Line

I’d recommend the Shoei Neotec II for hybrid motorcyclists or anyone that enjoys long-distance touring. It fits pretty much all head shapes and has one of the most aerodynamic designs out there, which also makes it one of the quietest options.

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What to Consider When Shopping for a Modular Helmet

The fact that modular helmets can be transformed from one shape to another makes them less “sturdy” than full-face helmets, for example, that’s why there are things that you should inspect closely before deciding on the model you’ll go for.

Safety

Like any helmet, modular motorcycle helmets are tested to ensure they meet certain safety measures and standards. The most important ones are 3: CPSC, DOT, and SNELL.

• CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission Standard): This one is a must-have, and if it’s not on your helmet, you shouldn’t buy it because that would mean that the CPSC didn’t deem it safe enough for use.
• DOT (Department of Transportation Certification): This certification indicates that the helmet in question has been deemed safe to be used on public roads.
• SNELL: It’s a company that gives certifications for advanced safety features, so it’s not a necessity, but it’s still the best way to keep your mind at peace when you’re riding. It’s definitely a huge plus if the helmet in question is SNELL-certified.

There are a couple of other ratings that you can find on the helmet, and you have to understand what each of them means, so here they are:

• ECE (Economic Commission for Europe): This one is the European version of the DOT certification.
• SHARP: SHARP can be seen as a supplement to ECE, but it’s voluntary, not necessary. It substitutes the traditional pass or fail tests for a star-rating system. If you find a SHARP-certified helmet, you can be sure that it has passed the ECE standards and minimum requirements.
• FIM (Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme): This rating indicates that the helmet is safe to use during races and that it’s been homologated by the FIM for racing.

Sizing

With all the safety certifications that exist, your helmet would be rendered obsolete if it doesn’t fit you well and snugly, and that’s why the most important thing to know when you’re shopping for a modular motorcycle helmet is to know how to find the size that fits you.

To know that, you should measure your head by wrapping a tape measure around it, above your eyebrows, while making sure that you keep the tape level.

If you’ll be opting for a one-size-fits-all, make sure it comes with extra padding that you can add or remove according to how the helmet fits you. Otherwise, make sure there’s a return policy. This is usually found on higher-end helmets, however.

More affordable helmets come with a few shell sizes of the seven sizes available (XXL, XL, L, M, S, XS, XXS.)

Apart from the sizes, you should also make sure that the helmet is compatible with the shape of your head. Some people have oval-shaped skulls, while others have round-shaped ones. Knowing this enables you to pick a helmet with a more ideal fit.

Comfort

Modular helmets are known for the extra comfort they provide over their fixed counterparts, whether full-face or open-face, because of their adjustability, which suits different terrains, weather, and personal preferences.

An important aspect to consider in this area is the ventilation system, which maintains the breathability of the helmet, allowing you to keep it on for extended periods of time. You should also make sure the helmet comes with enough cushioning and padding on its interior, especially one that manages moisture well.

Some helmets come with UV-protective sun visors and a neck roll to minimize noise during your rides.

Weight

Weight is a very competitive area, and many manufacturers fight over making their helmets the most lightweight, which is why you should definitely use this to your advantage.

A good average on a modular helmet would be 4.5 or 5 pounds; more than that might cause strain on your neck, but you could lighter ones if they’re up to par with the safety standards and are well-padded.

Visibility

When I say visibility, I mean the road’s visibility through the helmet despite the weather conditions or terrain, and your own visibility to other drivers on the road.

That’s why I’d recommend bright colors or reflective coatings that make you visible from a distance. Also, make sure that the helmet easily flips down and up yet stays in place when you’re in the middle of your ride.

Not only that, but you should also consider how visible the peripherals are in order to be aware of all your surroundings throughout the ride; this is of the utmost importance when you want to ensure your safety.

Durability

Durability on any helmet is a very crucial aspect as it helps in both keeping you safe and keeping the helmet intact. Make sure that the helmet you opt for can withstand falls and collisions while keeping you safe and secure.

When it comes to durability, the outer shell is a good place to start. It should be made of sturdy and robust materials like carbon fiber or fiberglass. Also, the suspension plays an important role in how durable the helmet is, so look for Omni-dimensional suspension as these are able to handle collisions of any intensity and at whatever angle.

FAQs:

How Tight Should a Helmet Fit?

A modular helmet can be said to fit well if there’s about one inch above your eyebrows when you put it on its front. If not, it won’t fit very well and would be prone to move sideways or back and forth during your ride. A helmet whose front is below your eyebrow level is likely too big for you.

Are Full-Face Helmets Safer Than Open-Face Ones?

When all is said and done, full-face helmets are definitely the safer option because they cover the areas with the highest rates of impact: the face where the shield area is and the front of the chin, whether on the left or the right. They provide full protection during accidents, so they’re safer.

Is a Full-Face Helmet Better Than a Modular One?

This is actually a matter of preference and purpose. If you treasure versatility, you should opt for a modular one. But, keep in mind that its hinges and locking mechanisms add weight and risk.

Are Modular Helmets Noisier Than Full-Face Helmets?

Modular helmets come with two-piece shells that include cracks through which wind and external noise can escape into your helmet, making them louder than full-face counterparts. 

Should I Wear a Full-Face Helmet On a Cruiser?

Cruising doesn’t require a full-face helmet because it’s usually safer than other activities that you could be doing with a motorcycle. However, extra safety never hurts anyone, and if you’ll be spending a lot of time on your cruiser, this could increase the risk of accidents.

Final Thoughts

Now that I’m done with the reviews on the best modular motorcycle helmets, I hope you’ve settled on the one that suits you most or that you’re close to that. If not, here’s a quick recap.

The best option overall would be the  HJC 980-613 IS-MAX II because it comes at a reasonable price for all that it has to offer. The Bell Revolver Evo also works that way, but its design and quality are even better.

It could be a little pricey, however, and if you’re on a tight budget, the YEMA YM-925 instead. It’s a very affordable option that’s also incredibly lightweight and comes with a very sleek design.