HJC Motorcycle Helmets Review – 2021 Complete Guide

| Last Updated: January 17, 2022

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Finding an attractive, affordable, and safe motorcycle helmet can be a chore.

Here, we’ll provide you with all the pertinent information regarding one of the more trusted and valued names in motorcycle safety: HJC.

Comparison of the Best HJC Motorcycle Helmets

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • DOT, ECE approved for safety features
  • Fiberglass composite shell is lightweight but strong
  • Moisture-wicking interior with antibacterial fabric
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  • Best for the Money
  • 2-stage shield closure system for tight, secure seal
  • Face shield offers 95% UV protection
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  • Best HJC Modular Helmet
  • Glasses-friendly liner boasts an EPS design
  • Removable, washable cheek pads and liner
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  • Best HJC Snowmobile Helmet
  • Chin curtain and breath deflector included
  • DOT, ECE approved for safety features
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  • Vents flush heat, humidity out of helmet
  • Odor-free, moisture-wicking interior with antibacterial fabric
  • Removable grooved interior for glasses wearers
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  • Best HJC Full Face Helmet
  • All cheek pad sizes can be interchanged in all sizes
  • 2-stage shield closure system for tight, secure seal
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  • Best HJC Dual Sport Helmet
  • Boasts a DOT shell design for added safety
  • Easy to convert from shield + visor to visor-only
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What Makes HJC Products Stand Out From the Competition?

HJC is committed to manufacturing the highest-quality helmets at affordable prices. These products offer numerous features and are consistently rated among the safest and most stylish helmets.

Photo credit: thehelmethelper.com

HJC also offers a wide variety of choices - there’s usually something for even the most unique tastes. You won’t find this from many other brands, which tend to cater to a more narrow range of riding styles.

Review of the Best HJC Helmets

Here are some of the best HJC helmets currently on the market. Check out the reviews below to help you decide which is best for you. 

Best Overall:
HJC F70

PROS

  • Affordable price
  • Drop-down internal sun visor included
  • Breath deflector and chin curtain are also included
  • Features advanced channeling ventilation system (ACS)
  • Deep ear pockets offer plenty of room for Bluetooth systems

CONS

  • Tends to fog up
  • Cheek padding can be a little tight on some people

Specs

Weight: 3.65lbs

Shell Sizes: One

Shape: Intermediate oval

Style: Street/sport touring

Review

Designed more for sport/touring riders, the HJC F70 is a dependable and comfortable full-face helmet. Its impressive outer shell is composed of an advanced, lightweight, fiberglass composite material that’s strong, comfortable, quiet, and well ventilated.

Also, while other brands tend to separately sell necessary features like a shade lens, breath deflector, and chin curtain, these come included with the F70. Amazingly, this feature-packed helmet costs around $200, which is less than other brands with nearly identical specs.

Bottom Line

Very few manufacturers offer the exceptional quality and multitude of features that the HJC F70 has. Those that can match its performance and safety features come at an absurdly high price.

Best for the Money:
HJC CL-17

PROS

  • Meets DOT and Snell Standards
  • The outer shell is light and comfortable
  • All cheek pad sizes are interchangeable
  • Replacement face shields are available in a wide variety of colors
  • Easy face shield changes thanks to the tool-less RapidFire Shield Replacement System

CONS

  • Chin curtain also sold separately
  • Pinlock lens insert sold separately

Specs

Weight: 3.91lbs

Shell Sizes: Four

Shape: Round oval

Style: Street/sport

Review

The HJC CL-17 is a simple yet multi-purpose motorcycle helmet that’s comfortable, well-built, and has a Snell safety rating that no other budget full-face option can compete with. Though it’s somewhat lacking in features (both the pinlock lens and chin curtain are sold separately), the overall package is still one of the best available because it provides the same protection as more expensive helmets for half the price.

Bottom Line

The HJC CL-17 is a well-rounded helmet that won't cost an arm and a leg. It has a wide array of features and is well-suited for more casual riders who want an inexpensive, multi-purpose option that’s both stylish and comfortable.

Best HJC Modular Helmet:
HJC CL-Max 3

PROS

  • Attractive style
  • Comfortable interior liner
  • Good overall safety impact protection
  • Costs less than most other modular helmets
  • Includes an integral sun visor and pinlock-ready face shield

CONS

  • Not a lot of additional features
  • Hasn’t been independently safety tested

Specs

Weight: 3.9lbs

Shell Sizes: Four

Shape: Medium oval

Style: Modular

Review

The HJC CL-Max 3 is a great choice for entry-level riders looking for an affordable yet quality modular helmet. It's made with the same durable materials that most top-shelf options have and has many of the same perks. Yet this helmet is nearly half the cost of some other brands while providing excellent safety and comfort.

Admittedly, the CL-Max 3 doesn’t have many features and doesn’t do anything better than other modular helmets. Yet it remains popular because of its appeal to folks looking for good, all-around performance for a much cheaper price.

Bottom Line

The CL-Max 3’s overall value makes it a popular choice for riders who prefer a modular helmet. Its style, comfort, and functionality won’t do much for the more experienced riders, but it’s a viable option for those looking for a great all-around helmet for a reasonable price.

Best HJC Snowmobile Helmet:
HJC i90 Davan

PROS

  • A large eye port allows for greater overall visibility
  • Chin bar vent flows air better than most other brands
  • The dropdown sun visor is a bit bigger than other brands
  • Added grooves for those who require eyeglasses or sunglasses
  • Moisture-wicking liner system will keep you dry and comfortable

CONS

  • Visor can fog up quickly
  • The internal visor slide mechanism is a bit tricky to use

Specs

Weight: 3.79lbs

Shell Sizes: Four

Shape: Intermediate oval

Style: Modular

Review

HJC’s i90 Davan is a quality modular helmet with a budget-friendly price tag. Though the face shield can be tricky to operate at first, and it can fog up, its size is ample, and it comes complete with a pinlock lens. Also, the interior lining is comfortable, and its outer shell is more durable, aerodynamic, and quieter than most other modular helmets.

The i90 Davan is particularly useful for snowmobilers because the closed visor doesn’t allow any water inside.

Bottom Line

This is an above-average helmet with basic features. Nothing about it will blow you away, but you'll appreciate the price tag, comfort, and overall durability.

HJC IS 33 II Helmet Review:
HJC IS-33 II

PROS

  • Aerodynamic shell
  • Comfortable to wear and attractive style
  • A huge eye port allows for fantastic visibility
  • Multi-stage intake and exhaust vents work very well
  • Tinted inner sun shield quickly deploys and retracts with one-touch

CONS

  • Wind noise level is high
  • A bit rounder than oval in shape

Specs

Weight: 3.27lbs

Shell Sizes: Three

Shape: Intermediate oval

Style: Modular

Review  

The HJC IS-33 II is safe and durable. It is low- to mid-range price tag makes it a very popular entry-level helmet. The polycarbonate composite shell is aerodynamic and features effective easy-to-use vents. Also, the plush interior lining is comfortable, removable, and made from antibacterial and anti-odor materials.

This modular helmet has some minor problems – its shape blurs the line between oval and round and it can be noisy – but they don't really subtract from the overall value.

Bottom Line

This is an excellent option for casual riders. It's not overly fancy or filled with all the latest features, but it's well-built, lightweight, and comfortable enough for those seeking a budget-friendly helmet.

Best HJC Full Face Helmet:
HJC CS-R3

PROS

  • Lightweight
  • Easily changes to snowmobile helmet
  • Features built-in communication speaker pockets
  • Face shield closure and locking system is tight and secure
  • Face shield offers UV protection and has an anti-scratch coating

CONS

  • Cheek padding is a bit firm
  • Breath deflector is sold separately

Specs

Weight: 3.55lbs

Shell Sizes: Four

Shape: Intermediate oval

Style: Street/sport

Review

HJC’s CS-R3 is a great choice for beginners and casual riders. What the CS-R3 lacks in comfortability and features, it makes up for in overall value. It does the basic features - air vents, multiple visor settings, a removable chin pad - better than most affordable helmets, plus it’s comfortable and stylish.

Bottom Line

The HJC CS-R3 is a bargain for casual riders. It won’t appeal to hardcore motorcyclists, but it’s a highly recommended choice for first-timers looking for an affordable, all-around helmet.

Best HJC Dual-sport Helmet:
HJC DS-X1

PROS

  • Looks good
  • Aerodynamic visor and shell
  • Removable cheek pads and liner
  • Grooves for eyeglasses or sunglasses
  • Tough, polycarbonate composite outer shell
  • Anti-bacterial, moisture-wicking interior lining

CONS

  • Insert lens sold separately
  • Not independently safety tested

Specs

Weight: 3.85lbs

Shell Sizes: Four

Shape: Intermediate oval

Style: Motocross/off-road

Review

The HJC DS-X1 is an entry-level motocross-style helmet that has some features – including padded interior lining with extra room for eyewear use and an aerodynamic outer shell – as well as a budget-friendly price tag.

The venting is scarce and ineffective, and the helmet is on the heavier side, but these traits should come as no surprise with a budget-friendly helmet.

Bottom Line

The HJC DS-X1 is an excellent option that performs well considering its entry-level cost. It's not going to compete with some of the more expensive motocross helmets, but it works as advertised.

HJC IS Cruiser Helmet Review:
HJC IS Cruiser

PROS

  • Very affordable
  • Sun shield is easily deployed
  • Easy to use and good looking
  • The outer shell is tough and durable
  • Removable and washable anti-bacterial liner

CONS

  • Wind noise is loud
  • Sizes don’t match the size chart and can feel loose

Specs

Weight: 2.64

Shell Sizes: Six

Shape: Intermediate oval

Style: Half helmet

Review

HJC’s IS Cruiser doesn’t have the bells and whistles that some more expensive modular helmets have, but it effectively utilizes what it does possess. Its well-built outer shell has excellent impact absorption properties and the Nylex interior lining limits head movement for improved overall stability.

This helmet is designed for casual city use due to its lack of safety features. Riskier driving situations aren’t advisable with the IS Cruiser because it doesn’t offer adequate protection in high-speed crashes.

Bottom Line

The HJC IS-Cruiser is simple and comfortable. It’s perfect for going down the road to visit a friend, but its uses are limited due to its lack of safety features.

HJC IS-Max 2 Helmet Review:
HJC IS-Max 2

PROS

  • Well-made helmet
  • Meets or exceeds DOT standards
  • Helmet size matches the size charts
  • Chin bar is raised with a single button
  • Features a drop-down internal sun visor

CONS

  • It’s been discontinued
  • A bit large and heavy

Specs

Weight: 3.81

Shell Sizes: One

Shape: Intermediate oval

Style: Modular

Review

The HJC IS-Max 2 is a solid modular helmet that features a drop-down internal sun visor, moisture-wicking anti-bacterial liner, and polycarbonate shell. It also has an easy-to-use face shield, sun visor, and chin guard. Additionally, it’s comfortable and has surprisingly good ventilation.

This helmet, though recently discontinued for unknown reasons, can still be purchased. That’s good news for those looking to purchase a quality helmet at a low price.

Bottom Line

Finding the HJC IS-Max 2 is becoming harder and harder. However, if you find one, you’ll be pleasantly surprised with its above-average performance and features. It’s a reasonably priced, well-built, and easy-to-use entry-level helmet.

Who is HJC? 

HJC, founded by Wan Kee Hong in 1971, is widely seen as one of the best helmet producers in the industry due to its unique combination of experience, pioneering concepts, and sensible pricing. The company also takes pride in having some of the safest helmets, which are regularly tested in the lab and in more realistic scenarios and conditions.

HJC’s wide inventory features modular, half, motocross, and full-face helmets, with a few hybrids as well. It also has a multitude of options catering to both serious and casual riders.

What Does HJC Helmets Stand For?

HJC is the initials of the company's full name: Hong Jin Crown Corporation.

Types of Helmets From HJC

The company manufactures a full range of helmets for a variety of activities. 

Full Face

Considered the safest type of helmet, the full-face variety completely covers the head and neck. It’s also restrictive in terms of vision and somewhat uncomfortable to wear.

Half Helmet/Open Face

Half-helmet and open-face types are easy to wear and carry around. They also offer better visibility and comfort. However, they’re severely lacking in safety features, which limits their practical uses.

Modular

Modular helmets allow riders to switch between full-face and open-face styles using the chin bar and visor. They’re a bit heavier than the other types. They can also limit head movement and pivot range when riding.

Off-road/Motocross

These helmets have an elongated chin bar and visor area. The face is also slightly open to accommodate goggles and airflow. They’re about as safe as full-face helmets but more streamlined and aerodynamic in design due to their competitive use.

HJC Helmet Size Chart

One of the most important steps to finding the right helmet size is utilizing the company’s size chart. These match your head proportions to the correct size.  However, check out customer feedback for each size chart’s accuracy as they’re occasionally off.

How Do HJC Helmets Compare to Other Popular Brands?

With so much competition out there, you may wonder how they stack up against other brands. Here are some comparisons to help you out. 

Shoei vs HJC

Similarities

Both Shoei and HJC make a few different types of helmets with many of the same additional features. They also have similar design styles and safety ratings.

Differences

Shoei’s products are more expensive than HJC’s. Shoei also caters more to the hardcore type of rider while HJC makes more entry-level helmets. Additionally, both brands have different sizing charts and tend to fit differently.

HJC vs Arai

Similarities

Many HJC and Arai helmets have many of the same features. They also have similar safety ratings and price ranges.

Differences

HJC’s helmets are heavier than Arai’s. However, Arai’s products are more comfortable and aerodynamic. Plus, Arai’s helmets usually come equipped with more vents and, therefore, have better ventilation than HJC’s.

HJC vs Bell Helmets

Similarities

Bell and HJC both make various helmets with similar features and safety ratings.

Differences

Bell’s helmets are usually more expensive and cater toward more serious riders, while HJC’s are cheaper and for more entry-level motorcyclists.

Both brands have different size charts and weights, with Bell’s being lighter. HJC typically has a quieter helmet than Bell.

HJC F70

Why Should I Choose a Helmet From HJC?

Here are a few of the more attractive selling points of HJC helmets:

Price

HJC is well-known for making some of the most affordable yet well-rounded helmets.

Attention to Detail

HJC helmets have optimal ease of use and overall functionality. They may not be complex or feature-packed, but their essential features often perform much better than some of the more expensive helmet brands.

Simple and Focused

HJC helmets are mainly designed for first-time buyers and casual riders. HJC understands its customer base and doesn't try to overcomplicate its helmets to cater to more experienced motorcyclists. They stick with what they know, which are simple, user-friendly, safety-focused, and affordable helmets.

Who Shouldn’t Choose a Helmet from HJC?

More hardcore or professional riders may not be completely satisfied with an HJC helmet. The company can't equip its products with a ton of features without drastically raising the price tag.

Conclusion

Regardless of whether you decide on an HJC helmet or not, it's important to find a helmet that fits. This is the only way to ensure that your head has the most comprehensive protection possible.

People Also Ask

Here are our answers to the most popular questions regarding HJC helmets:

Where Are HJC Motorcycle Helmets Made?

HJC helmets are made in Vietnam and South Korea.

How Long Has HJC Been Around?

HJC has been making motorcycle helmets since 1971.

Are HJC Helmets Good?

HJC is known for producing good low- and mid-priced helmets that appeal to entry-level riders.

Photo credit: youtube.com

What Kind of Warranty Does HJC Offer?

HJC offers a three-year warranty.

How Much Are HJC Helmets?

HJC helmets are usually priced anywhere between $85-$350.

How Long Are HJC Helmets Good For?

HJC products typically last between three-to-five years.

Are HJC Helmets Snell Approved?

Most, though not all, HJC helmets are Snell approved.



Hi, my name’s Troy. I started riding motorcycles with Clay mid-2020 and soaking up his vast knowledge of bikes. I have been writing for a few years and decided it was a good time to start writing about what I’m passionate about - motorcycles. No matter how bad your day is, a bike will always make you feel better, that’s my motto.