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Some people prefer the safety and security of a full-face helmet. Other riders would rather feel the sunshine and wind on their faces with a half helmet.
If you want a helmet that gives you the best of both worlds, a modular motorcycle helmet might be the one for you.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Best Modular Motorcycle Helmets
- OUR TOP PICK: Schuberth C3 Pro
- RUNNER-UP AND QUIETEST MODULAR MOTORCYCLE HELMET: Shoei Neotec 2
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Scorpion EXO-AT950
Comparison of the Best Modular Motorcycle Helmets
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What is a Modular Motorcycle Helmet?
Modular helmets are a hybrid of full-face and open-face helmets. They protect the rider’s head and face in an accident, but the chin bar and visor flip open so it’s easy to get some fresh air.
What Are Modular Dual Visor Motorcycle Helmets?
Modular dual visor helmets have a face shield and an internal sunshade. The sunshade is retractable, so you can still get UV protection when you need it, but you can move it out of the way when you don’t. This is useful if you’re driving in changing weather or when the day is transitioning to night or vice versa.
What Are Modular Motorcycle Helmets Best For?
Why choose a modular motorcycle helmet? Here are some cases where it might be the best option.
Protection
Modular helmets are best if you like the idea of an open face helmet or a half helmet but want more protection. Open-face helmets are effective at protecting the top and back of the head. But they provide no face protection. Modular helmets drastically reduce the risk of facial injury.
Glasses
This helmet type is also ideal for people who wear glasses. You can wear glasses under a full-face helmet, but it’s not always easy or comfortable. Modular helmets make it very easy to wear glasses.
Convenience
Some people prefer modular helmets because they are more convenient than full-face helmets. Showing your face for identification and asking directions are simple. All you have to do is raise the chin bar. But, you have to remove a full-face helmet every time you want to communicate with someone. This takes extra time and can be tedious.
Reliability
Modular helmets have become more and more popular. That means that there are more and more options available. Well-known, trusted brands now have modular options on the market. This attracts even more riders to the style.
FreedConn BM2-S
Review of the Best Modular Motorcycle Helmets
If you’re in the market for a modular helmet, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are a few of our favorites.
Best Overall:
Schuberth C3 Pro Specs
PROS
CONS
Type of Helmet: Sport, Touring
Materials Used: S.T.R.O.N.G. fiber, glass fiber with added resin compressed in a high-pressure vacuum
Brand: Schuberth
Type: Modular
Certifications: DOT
Clasp type: Ratchet lock
Weight: 3.53 lbs
What Types of Activities is the Schuberth C3 Pro Best For?
The C3 Pro is ideal for sport, touring, and cruising on the highway. The aerodynamics are impressive and reactive at high speed. It’s quiet when moving on the highway. Plus, the integrated antenna accommodates the SRC-System C3 Pro system.
Safety Features of Schuberth C3 Pro
- Schuberth’s Anti-Roll-Off System (A.R.O.S) minimizes the risk of the helmet hitting the chest during an accident. It also prevents the helmet from coming off the head from behind.
- A.R.O.S makes sure the helmet stays in place when the chin strap is closed.
What Are the Components of the Schuberth C3 Pro?
- Acoustics package. This is one of the quietest helmets in the world. It accomplishes this with an optimized outer shell, ergonomic shape, and wind deflector.
- Ventilation. The C3 Pro utilizes head, chin, and mouth vents to bring outside air in. Then, the multipath channels in the foam liner move air across the entire head.
- Modular EPS foam liner. This liner delivers optimal shock absorption. It has a multi-zone system that provides targeted comfort and protection.
Runner-up and Quietest Modular Motorcycle Helmet:
Shoei Neotec 2 Specs
PROS
CONS
Type of Helmet: Touring
Materials Used: Outer shell made with a five-ply matrix of hand-laid interwoven layers of fiberglass, organic fibers, and resin
Brand: Shoei
Type: Modular
Certifications: DOT
Clasp type: Micro ratchet, a stainless steel locking mechanism
Weight: 4.12 lbs.
What Types of Activities is the Shoei Neotec 2 Best For?
This is a good choice for cruising or touring. The chin bar provides more protection than a typical open-face cruiser helmet. Plus, the modular design is convenient, especially when making quick stops. If you’re riding with a group, the option to add a communication system comes in useful.
Safety Features of Shoei Neotec 2
- The dual-layer liner is designed for comfort while enhancing safety and impact absorption.
- The breath guard supports a distortion-free view. Beading prevents water from getting inside the helmet, ensuring a clear view.
What Are the Components of the Shoei Neotec 2?
- Cheek pads and liner. The liner material dissipates moisture for ultimate comfort.
- Ventilation system. The upper intake vents and exhausts improve airflow. Plus, you don’t have to remove your gloves to adjust the lower shutter.
- Face shield. The base plate system makes for easy shield changes. This helmet comes with a Pinlock EVO fog-insert lens installed.
Best for the Money:
Scorpion EXO-AT950 Specs
PROS
CONS
Type of Helmet: Dual Sport, Touring, Street, Trail Riding, Off-Roading
Materials Used: LG Polycarbonate shell
Brand: Scorpion
Type: Modular
Certifications: Dot
Clasp type: D-ring
Weight: 3.77 lbs.
What Types of Activities is the Scorpion EXO-AT950 Best For?
This helmet is suitable for many types of riding. It’s also suitable for people with more than one bike. The LG Polycarbonate engineered shell is strong and maximizes impact displacement. It has an excellent ventilation system. Plus, the antimicrobial liner keeps you comfortable in any season.
Safety Features of Scorpion EXO-AT950
- The anti-fog face shield and drop-down internal sun visor keep your view clear in any weather.
- A dual-density, multi-layer EPS liner provides superior energy displacement for advanced protection.
- The large eye port delivers an excellent view. It also allows enough room for wearing goggles when riding on the trails.
What Are the Components of the Scorpion EXO-AT950?
- Ventilation system. This helmet has multiple intake valves and exhaust ports to encourage airflow. The dual-position mouth vent has two positions. It functions as both ventilation and a defroster.
- Face shield. The ratchet system securely pulls the shield in and permits tool-less changes. A No-Fog face shield with an anti-scratch coat comes installed.
- Liner. The antimicrobial liner maintains a comfortable temperature in any weather. Plus, the cheek pads accommodate common styles of eyeglasses.
Best Bluetooth Modular Motorcycle Helmet:
ILM 953-MB-L Specs
PROS
CONS
Type of Helmet: Street, Cruising, Touring
Materials Used: ABS outer shell
Brand: ILM
Type: Modular
Certifications: DOT, ECE
Clasp type: Ratchet system
Weight: 4.4 lbs
What Types of Activities is the ILM 953-MB-L Best For?
The integrated Bluetooth system makes this a great helmet for everyday commuting. It's also ideal for cruising and touring with friends. You can take hands-free calls or get GPS directions while riding. Plus, if you’re riding with friends on a compatible system, you can stay in constant communication.
Safety Features of ILM 953-MB-L
- An internal sunshade helps the rider safely transition from shade to sun.
- Bluetooth makes it easy to contact friends or EMS in the event of an emergency.
- Shell is available in three different sizes to ensure you get a proper fit.
What Are the Components of the ILM 953-MB-L?
- Bluetooth. This helmet features one-touch controls for answering, rejecting, and placing calls. It supports communication with other riders as far away as 1000 feet.
- Liner. A multi-density liner provides impact protection. It’s removable and washable. Plus, you can add more cheek liners to adjust the fit.
- Ventilation system. The surface-mounted vents on the chin and crown help air through the helmet.
Best Women’s Modular Motorcycle Helmet:
FreedConn BM2-S Specs
PROS
CONS
Type of Helmet: Street, Cruising, Touring
Materials Used: ABS engineered plastic injection molding
Brand: FreedConn
Type: Modular
Certifications: DOT, ECE
Clasp type: Quick release
Weight: 4.05 lbs.
What Types of Activities is the FreedConn BM2-S Best For?
The BM2-S is well-suited for commuting and street riding. Its Bluetooth capabilities let you listen to music or take phone calls while on the road. This is also a great choice for cruising or touring with friends. It facilitates easy communication between riders.
Safety Features of FreedConn BM2-S
- The ABS plastic injection molded outer shell is durable with high impact strength.
- High-density EPS lining minimizes vibration and provides DOT certified head protection.
- Bluetooth connectivity makes it easy to get directions or contact EMS if needed.
What Are the Components of the FreedConn BM2-S?
- Bluetooth. This helmet gives you up to 12 hours of talk time and 120 hours on standby. You can listen to music and take calls simultaneously.
- Liner. The soft cotton liner is absorbent and comfortable. You can remove it and wash it when necessary.
- Ventilation system. A three-dimensional ventilation system encourages air to move freely through the helmet.
Lightest Modular Motorcycle Helmet:
AGV Sportmodular Specs
PROS
CONS
Type of Helmet: Sport
Materials Used: 100% carbon fiber outer shell
Brand: AGV
Type: Modular
Certifications: DOT, ECE
Clasp type: Titanium double D-rings
Weight: 3.2 lbs.
What Types of Activities is the AGV Sportmodular Best For?
The AGV Sportmodular is an ideal street riding helmet. The ventilation system and comfort liner make it a great choice for cruising or touring. It also gives you a wide peripheral view to take in the view. A drop-down sunshield is there when you need it. You can also adjust the inner lining to keep you warm or cool depending on the weather.
Safety Features of AGV Sportmodular
- The 5-density EPS foam liner absorbs and disperses the force of impact.
- The shell shape design minimizes the risk of collar bone injury.
- An adjustable spoiler reduces turbulence and maximizes stability for a safer ride.
What Are the Components of the AGV Sportmodular?
- Ventilation system. Vents in the chin guard and front of the helmet channel air to the rear extractor for effective airflow. There are also channels along the chin to distribute air evenly across the shield.
- Cheek pads. The cheek pads are moisture-wicking, anti-microbial, and comfortable against the skin. They accommodate most styles of eyeglasses.
- Face shield. The large viewing area is enhanced by the anti-scratch, anti-fog technology.
Pros and Cons of Modular Motorcycle Helmets
There are many reasons to love a modular helmet, though there are some drawbacks, too. Here’s a quick look at some pros and cons.
Pros
- When a modular helmet is closed, it provides the same weather protection as a full-face helmet. That means you’re protected against rain, wind, snow, and dust. This means you can enjoy the ride in any weather.
- Opening the chin bar makes a modular helmet just as convenient as an open-face one. If you want to stop and take a drink or let the wind hit your face on a hot day, a modular helmet makes it easy.
- Most modular helmets have effective ventilation systems and drop-down sun visors. They're very useful on hot, sunny days.
Shoei Neotec 2 (Source)
Cons
- Modular helmets are heavier than full-face helmets. They have extra hardware and other components that add extra weight.
- They provide face protection, but not as much as full-face helmets.
- Riders cannot ride with the chin bar up at high speeds. It creates a lot of resistance, adding pressure to the neck and making the rider unstable.
What to Look for When Buying a Modular Motorcycle Helmet
How do you pick the right modular helmet? Here are some things to look out for when making your decision.
Fit
Fit is one of the most important factors when choosing any motorcycle helmet. The right fit affects comfort, but it’s also essential for safety. If the helmet is too big, it will not give you adequate protection.
Modular helmets should easily fit over the head. Once in place, they shouldn’t move around or pinch your neck and cheeks. A snug fit is ideal, but the helmet should never hurt or pinch.
Lining
There are two things to consider about the internal lining of your helmet. The first is the foam lining that shields your head against the force of an impact. This layer absorbs and spreads out the force of an accident. You should choose a helmet with the best protection system in place.
You should also consider how comfortable the inner lining is. This included the cheek pads. The softer and more absorbent the lining, the longer you will be able to wear the helmet in comfort.
Weight
Modular helmets are heavy. Make sure you consider the weight of a helmet before you decide. That way, there will be no surprises.
Comparison Overview
Here are some helpful modular helmet comparisons:
Modular vs Full Face Motorcycle Helmets
The biggest difference between a modular and full-face helmet is protection. Modular helmets are better than ¾ helmets when it comes to face protection. But they don’t compare to full-face helmets.
That said, modular helmets are much more convenient. Being able to quickly open the front of the helmet makes a huge difference. It’s easier to communicate, get fresh air, and take a drink.
AGV Sportmodular (Source)
Helmets Modular Motorcycle Scorpion vs Shoei
The Shoei helmet edges out the Scorpion for a few reasons. First, the Shoei has a five-ply outer shell that’s slightly more impressive than the LG Polycarbonate shell of the Scorpion. That said, the Shoei is heavier than the Scorpion, by about 4 ounces.
Another difference is that Shoei has an integrated communication system. The Scorpion does not.
The chin straps are different, too. The Scorpion has a standard D-ring clasp. Some people may prefer the Shoei's Micro ratchet, stainless steel locking mechanism.
Conclusion
Modular helmets have grown in popularity, and it’s not very hard to see why. This is a great hybrid design that mixes a full-face and open-face helmet. Modular helmets give you the best of both worlds. Protect your face while still feeling the wind on your skin.
People Also Ask
If you’re considering a modular helmet, we know you have questions. Choosing a motorcycle helmet is an important decision, and you want to make sure you get it right. Here are some of the most popular things people wonder about.
Are Modular Helmets Worth It?
It depends on what you’re looking for! As we mentioned, full-face helmets are the safest type of motorcycle helmets. That said, there are a lot of valid reasons people prefer open-face helmets. Modular helmets are a perfect compromise. They’re safer than having no face protection and have some of the conveniences of an open-face helmet.
Are Modular Helmets Noisy?
It depends on the helmet, but this is true for any style. Modular helmets are not a single piece like full-face helmets, so they may be a little louder. Ventilation systems add noise, too. To decrease noise, you can wear a balaclava to prevent some air from getting up under the helmet. If the sound is too much, try wearing earplugs while riding.
Who Made the First Modular Motorcycle Helmet?
Although the history of the modular helmet is unclear, the first one to be approved for both open and closed riding is the Shark Evo-One 2 Endless Modular Helmet. This is a true hybrid and is DOT approved to be used with the face protected or the chin bar raised.
How to Lift Up a Modular Motorcycle Helmet
How to open a modular helmet varies slightly from one brand to another. Generally, there’s an easy-to-use latch to open the chin bar with a second latching system at the top to hold it in place. You should be able to open a modular helmet without having to take off your riding gloves. The process should never be too complicated.
Why Do Motorcycle Cops Wear Modular Helmets?
One of the benefits of a modular helmet is that it makes it much easier to talk to people. Police officers need to be able to talk to people. If a police officer pulls someone over on the highway, they have to talk to the driver when they approach the car. They would have to remove a full-face helmet completely then leave it on the bike or carry it with them. Neither of these options is ideal in their line of work. Having a modular helmet also makes it very easy for the police officer to get back on the motorcycle and set off.
How to Measure for a Modular Motorcycle Helmet
The best tool to use is a tailor’s tape measure because it is flexible. Wrap the tape measure around the fullest part of your head. For most people, this is just above the ears and eyebrows. Have someone help you to make sure the measurement is accurate. Each brand has its own sizing guide. Use your head measurement to determine which size to order from each brand.
