12 Best Modular Motorcycle Helmets (October 2026) Trusted Reviews

A modular motorcycle helmet is a full-face helmet with a hinged chin bar that pivots up and back over your head, so you get full-face coverage while the bar is latched and open-face convenience at every stop without taking the helmet off. That hinge, its latch and the second shell section it needs are exactly why modulars weigh more and catch more wind than a fixed chin bar.

That trade-off is the whole conversation. A modular earns its weight when you ride daily, wear glasses, want to talk at coffee shops, or cover long highway miles where the ability to drink a coffee without rebooting your whole head matters. Riders doing track days, sport riding or short urban hops usually end up wishing they had bought a lighter full-face instead.

We compared 12 modular helmets for this guide, from entry-level ABS shells to a carbon-fiber touring model and two with Bluetooth built into the chin bar. Below you will find our picks by riding style, a full comparison of all 12, a buying guide covering shell materials, certification stamps and head-shape fit, and an honest look at the chin bar problems owners actually report.

We are not dealers and we do not get to test-crash anything, so every measurement and rating below comes from the manufacturer specification and the review record for that specific model. Fit is the one thing you have to confirm on your own head before you commit.

Top 3 Modular Motorcycle Helmets for (October 2026)

Our overall pick, our value pick and our touring pick all come with caveats, so read the section for each one before you buy.

EDITOR'S CHOICE

1Storm HB89 Modular

★★★★★★★★★★4.63,076

• DOT FMVSS 218
• Flip-up chin bar with dual visor
• Lightweight thermoplastic alloy shell
• Speaker cutouts for intercom

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PREMIUM PICK

Shoei Neotec II

★★★★★★★★★★4.7603

• AIM composite shell
• QSV-1 sun shield
• Advanced noise reduction
• Pinlock EVO lens included

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BEST VALUE

HJC C91 Solid Modular

★★★★★★★★★★4.4633

• Polycarbonate composite shell
• HJ-17 Pinlock shield
• Integrated sun visor
• Smart HJC speaker pockets

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Best Modular Motorcycle Helmets at a Glance in 2026

Twelve picks, one line each, ordered by who they suit rather than by rank.

Best overall: 1Storm HB89, the most reviewed model here by a wide margin, DOT certified, dual visor, washable liner and a ratchet closure.

Best for quiet long-distance touring: Shoei Neotec II, AIM shell, QSV-1 sun shield and built-in noise reduction, with a Pinlock EVO lens in the box.

Best for carbon fiber weight: LS2 Advant X, 9K carbon with a full carbon chin bar at 1470g, ECE P/J certified for open or closed use.

Best from an established helmet maker: HJC C91, polycarbonate composite shell, HJ-17 Pinlock shield and integrated sun visor, Smart HJC speaker pockets.

Best for field of view: BELL SRT Modular, Panovision Class 1 shield and a fiberglass SRT shell with recessed speaker pockets.

Best for installing comms later: Simpson Mod Bandit, carbon fiber woven shell with pre-routed wiring channels and wide ear pockets for Sena and Cardo units.

Best for integrated Bluetooth: ILM 953, Bluetooth 3.0 with 1680 foot intercom range, one-touch call control and DSP noise suppression.

Best for group riding on one communicator: FreedConn BM2-S, Bluetooth 5.0 connecting three riders with changeable padding thickness on a single shell.

Best for a 180 degree flip-back: ILM B707, reversible chin guard that converts between full face, modular and three-quarter open face.

Best for commuting on a budget: YEMA 926, 1.7 kg with adjustable intake and exhaust vents and a quick-release strap.

Best for ADV styling and dual certification: ScorpionEXO GT930, peak visor and aero skirt included, DOT and ECE 22.06 P/J, double D-ring retention.

Best starter modular: ILM 902, ABS shell, six vents, washable liner and cheek pads, five year manufacturer warranty.

Here is every helmet in one table so you can compare shell material, certification, weight and visor hardware side by side.

Product	Key Features
1Storm HB89 Modular Helmet	DOT FMVSS 218 Thermoplastic alloy shell Flip-up chin bar and sun shield Removable washable padding Sizes S to XXL	Check Latest Price
Shoei Neotec II	AIM composite shell QSV-1 sun shield Noise reduction venting Pinlock EVO lens included	Check Latest Price
HJC C91 Solid Modular	Polycarbonate composite shell HJ-17 Pinlock shield Integrated sun visor Speaker pockets	Check Latest Price
LS2 Advant X Carbon	9K carbon fiber shell 1470g plus or minus 50g 180 degree single axis flip ECE P/J certified	Check Latest Price
Simpson Mod Bandit	Carbon fiber woven shell One hand metal locking chin bar Pre-routed comms channels Pinlock ready visor	Check Latest Price
ILM 953 Bluetooth Helmet	Bluetooth 3.0 1680 foot intercom range DSP noise suppression Washable microfiber liner	Check Latest Price
YEMA 926 Modular	ABS shell 1.7 kg Adjustable intake and exhaust vents Dual lens design	Check Latest Price
ScorpionEXO GT930	Polycarbonate shell with dual density EPS Peak visor included Everclear no-fog shield ECE 22.06 P/J and DOT	Check Latest Price
FreedConn BM2-S Bluetooth	Bluetooth 5.0 Three rider group intercom Changeable padding thickness 500mAh battery	Check Latest Price
BELL SRT Modular	Panovision Class 1 shield Fiberglass SRT shell Recessed EPS speaker pockets Quick release closure	Check Latest Price
ILM B707 180 Degree	180 degree reversible chin guard Dual visor setup Speaker pockets Three vents	Check Latest Price
ILM 902 Dual Visor	ABS shell Six vents Washable liner and cheek pads Five year warranty	Check Latest Price

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1. 1Storm HB89 Modular Helmet: Best Overall Modular Motorcycle Helmet

EDITOR'S CHOICE

1Storm Motorcycle Modular Full Face Helmet Bike Flip up Dual Visor Sun Shield: HB89 Matt Black

★★★★★★★★★★4.6

• DOT FMVSS 218
• Thermoplastic alloy shell
• Flip-up chin bar with dual visor
• Sizes S to XXL

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Pros

• Highest rated and most reviewed helmet in this roundup
• Easy to operate flip-up chin bar and internal sun shield
• Road noise comparable to far more expensive full-face helmets
• Shell has speaker cutouts for an intercom
• Extra spoiler included for a sportier look

Cons

• Internal sun visor feels cheap and can crack while actuating
• Runs small so sizing up is often necessary
• Some road noise at highway speed
• Cheek pad comfort depends heavily on head shape

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The HB89 is the pick we keep coming back to because the evidence under it is the deepest in this group: 4.6 stars across more than 3,000 reviews. That is several times the review volume of most premium modulars, and the pattern in those reviews is remarkably consistent, which tells you the sample is representative rather than a lucky run.

Mechanically it is a straightforward design. The thermoplastic alloy shell meets FMVSS 218, the ratchet closure tightens with a dial rather than a pin, and the inner smoked lens drops behind the clear outer shield so you can change light conditions without swapping anything. The removable washable interior padding is the part that ages best, because you can rinse it instead of living with it.

The surprises are all in the small print. Weight is listed at four pounds, which puts it near the middle of this group rather than at the light end, and there is a second spoiler in the box if you decide the street styling is too plain. Sizes run from S at 53 to 54 cm up to XXL at 61 to 62 cm, which is a wide range on paper.

Owners also point out that the shell is pre-cut for an intercom, so this is a sensible way to start if you plan to add communication hardware a year from now rather than replacing the whole helmet.

What you should know before buying it

Measure your head circumference and check it against the size chart before ordering, because the small fit is the single most common complaint. A helmet that is too tight across the temples will be uncomfortable within an hour and will not quiet down with break-in.

Treat the inner sun visor as a convenience, not a feature to depend on. Owners report the mechanism feeling light and occasionally cracking, so carry a pair of sunglasses for long sunny runs.

Who it suits and who it does not

This is the right choice for a daily commuter, a first modular, and anyone who wants a dual-visor system and comms cutouts without committing to a carbon shell. It suits riders who put 20 to 40 miles a day on the bike and care more about value per ride than about weight.

It is the wrong call if you ride long highway stretches and weight on your neck is the main complaint, or if you want a shell material that spreads impact across a wider area than a thermoplastic alloy can.

2. Shoei Neotec II: Best Modular Helmet for Quiet Long-Distance Touring

PREMIUM PICK

Shoei Neotec II Modular Motorcycle Helmet

★★★★★★★★★★4.7

• AIM composite shell
• DOT and ECE certified
• QSV-1 sun shield
• Pinlock EVO lens included

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Pros

• Highest average rating in this roundup at 4.7 stars
• Exceptionally quiet at highway speeds according to owners
• Smooth easy-to-operate flip-up face cover and shield
• Pinlock EVO lens and helmet bag included in the box
• Five year or seven year warranty from purchase or manufacture

Cons

• Premium tier price
• Highest rated helmet here on a much lower review count
• Only three vents in the listed specification

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The Neotec II carries the highest average rating of anything in this roundup, 4.7 across 603 reviews. Its Advanced Integrated Matrix shell is a fiberglass composite rather than a thermoplastic, which is a meaningful step up in how it handles an impact.

What owners mention most is quiet. The ventilation system is built around noise reduction rather than maximum airflow, and the three-vent layout in the specification is deliberately restrained. A r/motorcycles user who had tried dozens of flip-up models before settling on this category of design cited comfort, ventilation and noise level as the deciding factors, and the Neotec is the model that description lands on.

The QSV-1 sun shield is anti-fog and anti-scratch and moves quickly when light changes, which matters on the kind of long exposed highway rides this helmet is designed for. The micro ratchet chin strap uses a dial rather than a loose strap end, so it stays put at speed without pinching under your jaw.

In the box you get a breath guard, the CNS-3 shield on its base plate system, a helmet bag, the instruction manual and a Pinlock EVO lens. That last item matters: a modular with an open face shield and no insert will fog badly in cool weather, and this one comes ready for it.

What you should know before buying it

The warranty is five years from purchase or seven from manufacture, whichever comes first, and the shell is a hard shell rather than a carbon weave, so expect a longer break-in period than a fabric-lined helmet. Weight is listed at 4.1 pounds.

Check that your head shape suits an intermediate oval. The oval shell profile and the deep EPS fit mean a round or long head can leave pressure points at the temples or the back of the skull.

Who it suits and who it does not

Buy this if you ride long highway distances, value a very quiet cockpit, and want a brand with a long track record in protective equipment. Riders who wear glasses get a wide chin bar opening that is easier to get a temple arm through.

Pass on it if cost is the deciding factor, or if you ride mostly short urban trips where the extra shell weight and premium tier never earn their keep. Track riders should not be looking here at all.

3. LS2 Advant X Carbon: Best Lightweight Carbon Modular Motorcycle Helmet

BEST FOR CARBON LIGHTWEIGHT

LS2 Helmets Advant X Carbon Modular Helmet (Matte Black – Large)

★★★★★★★★★★4.2

• 9K carbon fiber shell
• 1470g plus or minus 50g
• 180 degree flip
• ECE P/J certified

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Pros

• Lowest published weight in this roundup at 1470g
• Full carbon chin bar rather than a composite chin bar
• Single axis 180 degree flip puts the chin bar fully behind the head
• Three adjustable vents
• Pinlock Max insert included in the box

Cons

• Chin strap has very little adjustment and can feel restrictive
• Sun visor mechanism has a history of breaking in this model family
• Warranty service reported as poor in the US
• Included Pinlock insert may not fit the shipped face shield

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LS2 publishes the lowest weight figure in this roundup at 1470g plus or minus 50g, with the full carbon chin bar included. The next-lowest published figure is 1700g. On a long day that difference is the difference between a helmet you notice and one you do not.

Carbon fiber does two things well here. It is the stiffest, lightest shell material in common use, and it lets the designers make the chin bar carbon too, which is where a lot of modular weight normally hides. The 180 degree single-axis system swings the bar all the way behind your head, so it does not rest on your lower back the way some 180 degree designs do.

It is ECE P/J certified, which means it is homologated for use both as an open-face and as a full-face helmet. That is a meaningful certification detail for anyone who flips the bar up on a hot day and does not want to be riding in a formally unapproved configuration.

The visor package is a multi-port advanced ventilation system, an A-Class polycarbonate shield on a quick-release mechanism, a built-in sun visor and an included Pinlock Max insert. Owners frequently compare the weight favourably against more expensive carbon touring helmets and say it stays quiet once the visor is closed down.

The rating here, 4.2, sits below several cheaper helmets, and the reasons are specific rather than general. Reports concentrate on the sun visor mechanism breaking, a chin strap with very little adjustment range, and frustration with warranty handling.

What you should know before buying it

If you have a beard, test the chin strap before you commit. Owners with facial hair report that the limited adjustment makes this helmet frustrating, and that is a fit problem no amount of break-in solves.

Verify the shield and Pinlock insert pairing when it arrives, and check the sun visor slider carefully in the first week. Those two issues account for most of the reported complaints.

Who it suits and who it does not

This is the one to buy if neck fatigue is what is ending your rides early, or if you want carbon construction without moving up to a touring-price carbon helmet. It is also a strong hot-weather pick for riders who flip the chin bar back at stops.

It is a poor fit for anyone who needs a generous chin strap adjustment range, and buyers who have had warranty trouble with a brand before should factor that in before choosing.

4. HJC C91 Solid Modular: Best Value From an Established Helmet Brand

BEST VALUE

HJC C91 Solid Modular Motorcycle Helmet with HJ-17 Pinlock Shield, DOT Approved (Semi Flat Black, Medium)

★★★★★★★★★★4.4

• Polycarbonate composite shell
• DOT FMVSS 218
• HJ-17 Pinlock shield
• Integrated sun visor

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Pros

• Comes from a long-established helmet manufacturer
• Advanced polycarbonate composite shell with a CAD designed adjustable chin bar
• HJ-17 Pinlock shield with 99 percent UV protection and tool-free RapidFire replacement
• Interchangeable cheek pads across sizes
• Speaker pockets already cut into the shell

Cons

• Runs small so most riders size up
• Heavier than some competing modulars
• A bit noisier than the cheapest open-face models on the highway
• Pinlock insert and Bluetooth system sold separately

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The C91 exists because a lot of riders want a modular from a brand with real history in protective equipment but do not need carbon or a premium composite shell. HJC makes that case well. The shell is an advanced polycarbonate composite, certified to FMVSS 218 with energy absorption, penetration resistance and chin strap testing all accounted for.

The chin bar is described as CAD-designed and easily adjustable, which in practice means the mechanism is a modern one-hand design rather than the older two-handed lift you find on entry-level helmets. That single change removes most of the complaints riders have with cheap modulars.

The HJ-17 shield is Pinlock prepared with 99 percent UV protection, and the RapidFire system changes the shield without tools. There is an integrated dark smoke sun visor, which on this model reviewers single out as easy to deploy and anti-scratch coated. The liner is moisture-wicking and quick-drying, and both the cheek and crown pads come out for washing.

For comms, the shell is Smart HJC ready with speaker pockets cut for the 10B and 20B Bluetooth systems. You will need to buy those separately, but the shell work is already done.

What you should know before buying it

Sizing is the headline caution. Multiple reviews describe the C91 as running small, so most riders need to order a size up and confirm the cheek pads are not pressing at the jawline.

At 3.5 pounds it is not the lightest modular here, and it is louder on the highway than the cheapest open-face designs. If noise is your top priority, the Shoei above is the better target.

Who it suits and who it does not

Pick the C91 if you want a proven brand name, a washable liner, a working sun visor and a Pinlock-ready shield in one package. It is a strong first serious modular for riders moving up from a cheap dual-visor helmet.

Skip it if you need the lightest shell possible, or if you ride in a climate where an unsealed chin bar gap will bother you constantly. Riders with very round heads should check the oval shell profile carefully.

5. Simpson Mod Bandit: Best Modular Helmet for Installing Communication Systems

BEST FOR COMMS INSTALL

Simpson Mod Bandit Modular Motorcycle Helmet – Large – M59L2 – Gloss Black

★★★★★★★★★★4.6

• Carbon fiber woven shell
• DOT and ECE 22.05 certified
• One hand metal locking chin bar
• Pre-routed comms channels

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Pros

• Very light carbon fiber woven shell
• Pre-routed wiring channels and wide ear pockets for Sena and Cardo systems
• One hand chin bar operation with metal locking hardware
• Tool-less shield swap and Pinlock ready visor system
• Removable washable comfort liner

Cons

• Runs large so many riders size down
• Some wind noise above roughly 40 mph
• Small outer shell range means limited sizing granularity

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The Mod Bandit is built around one specific problem: getting a Bluetooth system into a modular without fighting it. The shell has pre-routed wiring channels and wide ear pockets, which is the difference between an afternoon of installation and an evening of it.

Owners describe a short break-in, with cushioning that settles in quickly rather than taking a season. They also single out the peripheral vision, which reviews compare favourably against other modulars, and a visor system that resists fogging better than shells costing considerably more.

The chin bar is a genuine streetfighter-style design with one-hand operation and metal locking hardware rather than a plastic catch. That matters more than it sounds: plastic catches are the part of a modular most likely to be the weak point over years of use.

The shell is a carbon fiber weave, one of the lighter constructions available, and the helmet carries both DOT and ECE 22.05 certification. An integrated aerodynamic spoiler sits with adjustable intake and exhaust vents, and the visor system is Pinlock ready with a clear face shield fitted as standard.

One detail worth checking: this is a small outer shell range, so sizing granularity is limited. Combined with a fit that runs large, that means you may need to drop a size versus what you wear in another brand.

What you should know before buying it

Check your size carefully against another carbon helmet you own. Owners frequently drop a size for this model, and getting it wrong means returning a shell that fits nobody else.

Wind noise above roughly 40 mph is a recurring note. If you do highway commuting rather than city riding, bring earplugs and test it on a long road before committing.

Who it suits and who it does not

This suits a rider who has already decided they want a communicator, and who would rather buy the helmet that makes installation easy than buy a cheaper shell and fight the wiring. Riders running group tours on Sena or Cardo hardware will appreciate the pocket design most.

It does not suit riders who want a wide size range, or who ride mostly in cold weather where quiet matters more than channel routing.

6. ILM 953 Bluetooth Helmet: Best Modular Helmet With Integrated Bluetooth

BEST FOR INTEGRATED BLUETOOTH

ILM Bluetooth Integrated Modular Flip up Full Face Motorcycle Helmet 953

★★★★★★★★★★4.2

• DOT FMVSS 218
• Bluetooth 3.0 with 8 hours talk time
• 1680 foot intercom range
• Microfiber liner

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Pros

• Bluetooth 3.0 built into the shell with no separate unit to mount
• Intercom range up to 1680 feet between two riders
• One-touch control for calls answering rejecting and redialing
• DSP echo cancellation keeps voices clear at speed
• Fully washable microfiber lining with adjustable vents

Cons

• Battery enters deep sleep after long disuse and needs a charge cycle to wake
• Integrated module makes the helmet run one size smaller
• Entry-level shell construction

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Among riders asking for a modular with Bluetooth and crash detection built in, this is the practical answer: the electronics are in the shell from the factory, there is no separate unit to strap to the outside, and the intercom range reaches 1680 feet between two riders. Three riders on one set is not claimed here, but two is a real number.

The audio side is two built-in stereo speakers with DSP echo cancellation and noise suppression, which is the part that decides whether you can actually hear navigation over engine and wind noise at highway speed. One-touch control handles calling, answering, rejecting and redialing without taking a glove off twice.

Talk time is listed at eight hours with 110 hours on standby, and the closure is a hook and loop strap rather than a ratchet or buckle, so it is fast to open at a stop.

The 4.2 rating across more than 2,000 reviews is lower than the non-Bluetooth ILM models, and the reason is consistent: weight. The module and its battery add mass, and the battery is why the helmet is listed at 2.43 kg.

There is a sizing consequence too. The manufacturer states the helmet runs one size smaller because of the built-in module, so if you are between sizes, size up. The lining is fully washable microfiber and the vents are adjustable, which helps more in summer than at any other time of year.

What you should know before buying it

Charge it monthly even if you are not riding. Owners report the battery entering a deep sleep mode after long periods of disuse and needing a full charge cycle to wake it, which means a helmet stored in a garage over winter can look dead in spring.

Accept that this is an entry-level shell. The protection story is DOT FMVSS 218 and a hard shell, nothing more, so it is not the choice if certification depth matters to you.

Who it suits and who it does not

It suits solo riders and pairs who ride with navigation prompts and want music and calls without mounting hardware on the outside of the helmet. Riders who wear prescription glasses appreciate not having a communicator strap in the way.

It does not suit long-touring riders sensitive to weight, or anyone who needs a group intercom for more than two people. Riders who store a helmet for months should look at a wired alternative instead.

7. YEMA 926 Modular: Best Lightweight Modular for Daily Commuting

BEST FOR LIGHTWEIGHT VALUE

YEMA Modular Motorcycle Helmets, DOT Approved Full Face Motorcycle Helmet with Flip Up Dual Visor, Helmets for Adults Men Women Helmets for Street Scooter ATV E-Bike – YM-926 (Matte Black, XXL)

★★★★★★★★★★4.4

• ABS shell with EPS liner
• 1.7 kg
• Dual lens design
• Adjustable intake and exhaust vents

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Pros

• Light at 1.7 kg for a full-face modular
• Adjustable intake and exhaust vents give good airflow
• Inner tinted visor operates easily with gloves on
• Chin bar face shield and sun visor all articulate smoothly
• Removable washable cheek pads

Cons

• Visor fogs readily even in mild dry weather with vents open
• Optical quality of the tinted sun visor is poor and produces glare
• Internal padding held by weak plastic snaps that loosen frequently
• Some wind noise at freeway speeds

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At 1.7 kg the YEMA shares second place for the lightest shell in this roundup, and it is the lightest one that is not carbon, which is a useful piece of information for riders who care about neck load but do not need a premium material. For a 30 minute commute, that weight is genuinely close to nothing.

The design is a straightforward one: an ABS shell over an EPS liner, DOT FMVSS 218 approved, with a quick-release strap that opens with one hand at a stop. The shell shape is listed as round, which is a useful hint for riders with rounder head shapes who struggle with intermediate oval helmets.

Fully adjustable intake and exhaust vents are the standout feature at this level, and owners consistently mention airflow as a strength. Several reviews also note repeat purchases, which usually means the shape worked for them and the sizing matched.

The flip-up articulation gets specific praise: chin bar, face shield and sun visor all move smoothly, and the inner tinted lens can be operated with gloves on. That is a small thing that matters a great deal at a fuel stop in the rain.

Against that, the fogging complaints are consistent and specific. Owners report the visor fogging in mild, dry weather with the vents open, and the tinted sun visor producing glare because of poor optical quality. A Pinlock insert is not the fix here, because the problem is described as happening with vents open.

What you should know before buying it

The inner padding snaps are the durability weak point. Owners report the plastic snaps loosening frequently, so check them before every ride rather than assuming a helmet is properly assembled.

Warranty coverage is one year from the manufacturer, which is short by the standards of the category. Buy a replacement liner rather than a replacement helmet if a pad fails.

Who it suits and who it does not

This suits urban and scooter commuters, new riders, and anyone with a round head shape who finds intermediate oval shells uncomfortable. It is also a good choice for riders whose commute is short enough that wind noise at freeway speed rarely comes up.

It is a poor choice for long-distance riders, for anyone who rides in cold or damp conditions, and for people who need a sun visor they can trust in bright light.

8. ScorpionEXO GT930 Transformer: Best Modular Helmet for Versatility and Dual Certification

BEST FOR VERSATILITY

ScorpionEXO GT930 Modular Helmet Solid (Matte Black – Large)

★★★★★★★★★★4.5

• Polycarbonate shell with dual density EPS
• DOT and ECE 22.06 P/J
• Peak visor and aero skirt included
• Double D-ring retention

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Pros

• Dual DOT and ECE 22.06 P/J homologation in one shell
• Peak visor and aero skirt included in the box
• Everclear no-fog shield treated on both surfaces with 95 percent UV protection
• Transforms between full modular and three-quarter open face
• Internal sun visor drops low enough not to obstruct vision

Cons

• No quick-release strap
• uses a double D-ring retention system
• Chin strap snap sits awkwardly far back on the side
• Some road noise remains at highway speeds
• Third-party Bluetooth speaker sets may not fit the pockets well

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The GT930 is the only helmet here that comes with a peak visor and an aero skirt in the box, which makes it the one to look at if you ride a mix of tarmac and gravel and want one helmet instead of two. Those two parts change the silhouette completely and matter for ADV styling far more than for aerodynamics.

The certification is the quiet headline. It carries dual DOT and ECE 22.06 P/J homologation, meaning it is approved for use as a full-face and as an open-face helmet, and it is available from XS through 3XL. The shell is polycarbonate with dual density EPS for energy displacement across more than one density of foam.

Retention is a double D-ring system rather than a quick-release buckle. That is a deliberate choice and a safer default in track-adjacent use, but it is slower to put on and off than a buckle, and it is the reason riders who prefer convenience often rule this one out.

Vision hardware is well specified: the Ellip-Tec ratchet system changes the shield without tools, the Everclear shield is treated on both surfaces and blocks 95 percent of UV-A and UV-B, and the internal Everclear SpeedView sun visor drops low enough to stay out of your line of sight. The KwikWick C liner is removable and washable with KwikFit 3D cheekpads.

Owners report the helmet is stable at highway speeds in gusty wind and quieter than cheaper modulars, with residual road noise still noticeable above roughly 45 mph. The warranty is five years from purchase or seven from manufacture.

What you should know before buying it

Test the D-ring strap with cold hands before you commit. The strap snap is tucked far enough into the side to be awkward to reach, which is a daily annoyance rather than a dealbreaker, but an annoying one.

Bring your own speakers. The EXO-COM pockets are large diameter, yet third-party Bluetooth speaker sets may not seat properly in them, so check fit rather than assuming compatibility.

Who it suits and who it does not

It suits ADV and dual-sport riders who want one helmet for gravel and highway, and anyone who values a formal ECE 22.06 P/J approval alongside DOT. Riders with a wide size range needs are also well served, since it runs XS to 3XL.

It does not suit city riders who want one-hand strap operation, or anyone who removes the helmet many times a day and dislikes fiddling with a D-ring.

9. FreedConn BM2-S Bluetooth Helmet: Best Modular Helmet for Group Riding

BEST FOR GROUP RIDING

Motorcycle Helmet Bluetooth 5.0 Integrated New EPS FreedConn BM2-S Modular Flip Up Dual Visor Motorbike Helmet DOT FMVSS-218 Approved MP3 FM for Adults Men Women

★★★★★★★★★★4.3

• DOT FMVSS 218 and FCC
• Bluetooth 5.0
• Intercom range 1680 feet, three riders
• Changeable padding thickness

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Pros

• Bluetooth 5.0 with a three-rider group intercom
• Intercom range up to 1680 feet between two riders
• Changeable padding thickness lets one shell fit different riders
• Three-way ventilation with a washable microfibre lining
• Glove-friendly one-touch button with jog dial and voice assistant support

Cons

• Battery enters deep sleep after long disuse and needs a multi-step charge cycle
• No wall charger included in the box
• Brand recommends sizing up one size from your usual

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The BM2-S is the one in this roundup that can hold a three-rider group intercom, with Bluetooth 5.0 and a stated range of 1680 feet between two riders. If you ride in a group of three and want talkback without buying separate units and pairing them at every stop, that capability is the reason to buy this one.

The padding system is unusual and genuinely useful. The same outer shell comes with washable microfibre liners in different thicknesses, so size adjustment happens with liner swaps rather than by buying a different shell. For households with two riders on different head sizes, that is a real saving.

Controls are a one-touch button plus a jog dial, glove-friendly, with support for Siri and S Voice. Audio uses DSP noise suppression speakers, and the 500mAh battery is rated at 8 to 10 hours of talk time and 300 hours on standby.

The box is unusually generous for a helmet at this level: you get the battery and charging cable, a set of gloves, sleeves and a face mask, a storage bag and a user manual. The helmet itself is DOT and FMVSS 218 certified with an ABS shell, dual visor and multiple air vents.

The 4.3 rating reflects that the electronics are the draw rather than the shell. Downside reports concentrate on battery behaviour during storage, the missing wall charger, and the instruction to size up one size from your usual.

What you should know before buying it

Owner feedback on this model is thinner than the others here, so treat the practical detail below as specification rather than reported experience. The two things to plan for are the sizing advice and the absent wall charger.

Size up one size, and plan to charge the unit before long storage periods. Riders who store a helmet over winter should expect a multi-step charge cycle before it wakes up.

Who it suits and who it does not

It suits three-person groups, households sharing one shell with different liner thicknesses, and riders who want glove-operable controls with voice assistant support. The included gloves make it an easy gift for a new rider.

It does not suit solo riders who will never use a group intercom, or anyone who needs a carbon or composite shell for impact performance rather than electronics.

10. BELL SRT Modular: Best Modular Helmet for Field of View

BEST FOR FIELD OF VIEW

BELL SRT Modular Flip-Up Motorcycle Helmet – NR Gray, X-Large

★★★★★★★★★★4.3

• Panovision Class 1 face shield
• Fiberglass SRT shell
• Recessed EPS speaker pockets
• Quick release closure

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Pros

• Panovision Class 1 shield gives an unusually wide field of view
• Fiberglass SRT shell balances strength and weight
• Recessed EPS speaker pockets fit Bluetooth communication systems
• Sport touring fit with a broad range of shell and sizing options
• Quick release closure

Cons

• Only a one year manufacturer warranty
• shorter than premium competitors
• Fiberglass shell is heavier than carbon fiber alternatives in the same class
• Internal sun shield is not included as standard

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The reason to buy the BELL SRT Modular is one word: Panovision. The Class 1 face shield gives a much wider viewing angle than a standard shield, and riders point to it as the headline feature, specifically noting how useful the extra angle is for lane changes and head checks when you are in a tucked position.

That matters more on a modular than a full-face, because the flip-up design already costs you some peripheral vision around the chin bar. Adding back a wide visor angle partly offsets it. The clear face shield is included.

Shell construction is fiberglass SRT, which sits between polycarbonate and carbon in both weight and price. Recessed EPS speaker pockets are moulded in for Bluetooth communication systems, and the fit is described as sport touring with a broad range of shell and sizing options.

The closure is a quick release, so you can get the helmet off and on without working a buckle. Certification is FMVSS 218 and DOT.

Two gaps are worth planning around. There is no internal sun shield as standard, so bright conditions mean either carrying sunglasses under the helmet or buying a tinted shield. And the warranty is one year from purchase, repair or replacement at the manufacturer’s option, which is among the shortest in this roundup.

Owners rate it at 4.3, with the rating held back by that short warranty and by the weight of a fiberglass shell relative to carbon options in the same class.

What you should know before buying it

No weight figure is published for this model, so treat the fiberglass class estimate as a guide rather than a number. If neck load is your main concern, try a sample in person.

Budget for a tinted shield. Without an internal sun visor, this helmet is significantly less pleasant in bright afternoon sun than the models that include one.

Who it suits and who it does not

It suits sport-touring riders who do a lot of head checks, cruiser riders, and anyone who wants a quick-release strap on a proper-brand modular. Riders planning to add speakers later will find the recessed pockets already cut.

It does not suit riders who want an internal sun shield as standard, or anyone who plans to keep a helmet for seven years and wants warranty cover to match.

11. ILM B707: Best Modular Helmet With a 180 Degree Chin Bar

BEST FOR 180 DEGREE CHIN BAR

ILM Vintage Full Face Modular Motorcycle Helmet for Adults Men ATV UTV Snowmobile with 180° Reversible Chin Guard DOT ILM-B707(Matte Black, L)

★★★★★★★★★★4.0

• ABS shell with high density EPS
• 180 degree reversible chin guard
• Dual visor
• Three vents

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Pros

• 180 degree reversible chin guard gives three wearing configurations
• Dual visor with a retractable tinted lens and ultra-wide clear shield
• Speaker pockets and a reserved eyewear slot for glasses
• Removable replaceable washable cheek liners
• Quick release strap with a back neck collar

Cons

• Lowest average rating in this roundup at 4.0
• Heavier shell and vintage styling feel dated next to sleeker modulars
• Basic ventilation by modern standards

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The 180 degree flip-back is the reason this helmet exists. The reversible chin guard rotates all the way behind the head and locks there, so it does not sit bouncing against your lower back. That is exactly what riders coming from adventure helmets ask for, and it is why this one keeps appearing in dual-sport conversations.

It converts between three configurations: full face, modular, and three-quarter open face. The dual visor layout adds a retractable tinted lens plus a removable ultra-wide clear shield, and there is a quick release strap with a back neck collar for the open configurations.

Shell is ABS with high density EPS foam lining, meeting or exceeding FMVSS 218 and DOT standards. The shell shape is listed as aerodynamic and it is designed for motorcycle and UTV use, which explains the wider eye port.

The details that make it work for specific riders: speaker pockets for a communication system and a reserved eyewear slot, so glasses users have a place for the temple arms. The cheek liners are removable, replaceable and washable, which is rare at this level and matters over a long ownership period.

At 4.0 stars this is the lowest-rated helmet we cover, and the spread of ratings is the widest in the group with a 9 percent one-star share. Those reviews point at fit and finish issues rather than one specific failing feature, which usually means head shape mismatch rather than a defect.

What you should know before buying it

Three vents is basic by current standards. If you ride in hot weather, expect to open the shield rather than rely on airflow, and test the venting on a warm day before you commit.

Vintage styling is subjective, but the 1700g weight is not. That is the same as the YEMA and still heavier than the carbon options above.

Who it suits and who it does not

It suits ADV and UTV riders who want a chin bar that fully clears the head, riders who wear glasses and need a wide eye port, and anyone who wants three configurations in one helmet.

It does not suit riders who want a modern low-profile look, or anyone whose head shape has never worked with an oval profile and who cannot try it on in person.

12. ILM 902 Dual Visor: Best Starter Modular Motorcycle Helmet

BEST STARTER HELMET

ILM Motorcycle Dual Visor Flip up Modular Full Face Helmet DOT with 6 Colors Model 902 (L, Matte Black)

★★★★★★★★★★4.5

• ABS shell
• Meets FMVSS 218
• Six vents
• Washable liner and cheek pads

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Pros

• Removable and washable liner and cheek pads
• Lightweight shell design that reduces wind noise
• Anti-scratch anti-fog wide-view clear visor
• Five year manufacturer warranty
• Listed for street bikes scooters UTVs ATVs and e-bikes

Cons

• Entry-level ABS shell offers less protection spread than composite or carbon alternatives
• Basic venting compared with models that have adjustable intake and exhaust

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The 902 is the simplest helmet in this guide and the easiest place to start. It is an ABS shell meeting FMVSS 218, with six vents, a micrometrically adjustable chin strap and a modular flip-up function with an anti-scratch, anti-fog wide-view clear visor.

Two things stand out above its tier. The liner and cheek pads are both removable and washable, which removes the single most common reason cheap helmets end up in a bin. And the warranty runs five years from the manufacturer, longer than several premium helmets here.

It is listed as compatible with all of the above, covering street bikes, scooters, UTVs, ATVs and e-bikes, and the shell shape is a straightforward oval. The shell colourway shown is a bright red gloss.

Owners describe it as a solid budget modular: the shell is light, the flip-up chin bar and dual visor work as advertised, and the pads come out for cleaning. A smaller share of reviews say wind noise and build quality are simply in line with the tier.

At 2.31 kg it is not the lightest here, and there is a straightforward reason to accept that. The protection available from an ABS shell is narrower than a composite or carbon construction can offer, and that is worth understanding before you commit rather than after.

What you should know before buying it

This is a first helmet or a spare, not a long-term touring purchase. An ABS shell has a real place in the category, but the protection envelope is narrower than a composite shell with a multi-density liner.

Expect entry-level venting. Six vents is more than some budget models, but they are not adjustable intake and exhaust, so airflow control is limited compared with the YEMA.

Who it suits and who it does not

It suits new riders, scooter and e-bike users, and anyone who wants a washable modular with a long warranty at the simplest possible entry point. Riders with a genuinely oval head shape find oval shells forgiving.

It does not suit touring riders covering thousands of miles, or anyone who wants a composite or carbon shell. If you can stretch to a more established brand, do.

Modular vs Full-Face: Is the Extra Weight Worth It?

This is the most argued question in the category, and it turns on a real trade rather than preference. A modular carries a hinge, a locking mechanism and a second section of shell, which means more mass and more aerodynamic drag than a fixed chin bar. Riders report the difference most clearly on long highway days, where a heavier helmet loads the neck muscles that hold your head steady against buffeting.

The safety argument is narrower than either side claims. In an impact with the chin bar down and latched, a modular is a full-face helmet with the same basic protection envelope. The difference appears in a very specific crash pattern: an impact to the chin bar area of an open-face or flipped-up configuration. Whether that risk is material to your riding is a personal judgement, and it is worth making explicitly rather than assuming the market has decided.

On fit, the modular is generally easier. A wider chin bar opening lets you put a helmet on over glasses without fighting the temple arms, and on r/motorcyclegear owners of modular helmets describe conversations about glasses compatibility as one of the practical reasons they stay with the format.

So the honest summary: modulars are worth it for daily riders, touring riders, and anyone who wears glasses or values face access at stops. Full-face helmets are worth it for track days, sport riding, short trips and anyone whose neck fatigue is the limiting factor. Riders on r/Harley and similar boards often name specific models by name, which is exactly the kind of advice that only works if you have tried the shape before.

How to Choose a Modular Helmet: Shell, Certification and Fit

Shell material decides weight and impact behaviour. Polycarbonate and ABS are the lightest and cheapest, and they concentrate impact into a smaller area. Fiberglass composite spreads load more evenly and costs more. Carbon fiber is the lightest and stiffest, and the carbon options here are the ones that can realistically cut neck fatigue on a long day.

Certification is not a hierarchy. DOT FMVSS 218 is the US legal minimum, and every helmet in this roundup meets it. ECE 22.06 is the European standard and is stricter, and ECE P/J is the version that explicitly covers both open-face and full-face use of a modular. Simpson Mod Bandit carries DOT and ECE 22.05. The ScorpionEXO GT930 carries dual DOT and ECE 22.06 P/J homologation.

Head shape matters more than size. Most brands describe an intermediate oval, which suits a broad range of heads. YEMA and the FreedConn are listed as round, which suits rounder heads. A helmet that is the right circumference but the wrong shape will create pressure points at the temples or the base of the skull.

Sun visor and shield hardware are where cheap helmets fail. The most common complaint in this roundup is not the shell or the liner, it is the internal sun visor mechanism cracking or feeling flimsy. If you ride in sun, treat that mechanism as a consumable.

Weight matters more than buyers expect. The spread here runs from 1470g on the LS2 Advant X through 1.7 kg on the YEMA and the ILM B707, up to 2.43 kg on the Bluetooth-equipped ILM 953. On a two-hour ride that difference compounds.

Comms planning should happen before purchase. Three approaches exist: integrated Bluetooth as on the ILM 953 and FreedConn BM2-S, pre-routed channels as on the Simpson Mod Bandit, and speaker cutouts as on the 1Storm HB89 and HJC C91. Buying the shell that suits your hardware now is cheaper than replacing a helmet later.

Chin Bar Mechanisms, Draft Sealing and the 222 Fit Rule

The chin bar is the component that makes a modular a modular, and it is where most long-term complaints land. Rider forum threads consistently raise the same three issues: mechanism failure, the chin bar bouncing up in a crash, and cold air leaking through the gap when the bar is latched.

Mechanism quality separates the tiers clearly. Metal locking hardware appears on the Simpson Mod Bandit, while several entry-level shells use plastic catches that are the first thing to wear. CAD-designed, easily adjustable chin bars, as on the HJC C91, indicate a more considered mechanism than a simple lift-and-lock.

On draft sealing, no modular fully eliminates the gap, and anyone claiming otherwise has not ridden one in January. What separates helmets is how well the rubber trim around the opening compresses and how far back the bar seals toward the neck roll. Spending a few minutes with the chin bar down and the fan off at a shop is the fastest way to feel the difference.

The 222 rule is the fit test most riders have never been shown. Two fingers: you should be able to fit two fingers between your eyebrows and the front of the helmet liner when the chin bar is down. Two thumbs: with the chin bar up, you should be able to close both hands into a fist comfortably inside the helmet. If either fails, the helmet is the wrong size or the wrong shape, and no amount of break-in will change it.

Add two more checks while you are at it. Wear the type of eyewear you actually ride in, because temple arms and the chin bar opening interact more than any brochure suggests. And walk around the shop with the helmet on for five minutes, because pressure points that feel like nothing in a shop feel like a headache an hour into a ride.

Helmet Care and the Replacement Timeline

Plan on replacing a helmet every five to seven years, and treat a significant impact as an immediate replacement regardless of age. The EPS liner, the shell and the retention system all degrade with UV exposure, heat cycles and the repeated flexing that comes from taking the helmet on and off.

Wash the liner and cheek pads in lukewarm water with mild soap, and let them air dry completely before reassembly. Never use a hair dryer or a heater, because heat warps foam and shells.

Check the strap tension and the buckle or D-ring operation every few months, and replace any sun visor that has cracked or any shield that has been dropped and scratched. Keep the certification label intact and readable, since some riders keep the label with the paperwork for resale or insurance purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Best Modular Motorcycle Helmets in 2026: Final Verdict

Our pick of the best modular motorcycle helmets in 2026 is the 1Storm HB89, because a 4.6 rating across more than 3,000 reviews is the most reliable evidence we found, and it includes the dual visor, intercom cutouts and washable liner most riders actually use. It is not the quietest helmet here and it is not the lightest, and we would rather tell you that than pretend otherwise.

If weight is what ends your rides early, the LS2 Advant X at 1470g is the answer, and the carbon shell also gives you the stiffest construction in the group. If quiet long miles are the priority, the Shoei Neotec II carries the highest average rating in this roundup and a Pinlock lens in the box. Riders adding communication hardware later should look at the Simpson Mod Bandit, and riders who want it built in should start with the ILM 953.

Whatever you choose, measure your head, run the 222 test, wear your real eyewear and try the chin bar closed with the fan off before you pay for anything. Then replace it in five to seven years, not when it looks tired.