With so much choice on the market today, it’s difficult to know which is the best flip up motorcycle helmet you should buy. Of course, there’s different price brackets too, and while you should buy the best you can afford, there are flip up helmets available that won’t break the bank.
But why choose a flip up helmet at all? Well, the best flip up helmets offer all the convenience of an open face helmet with almost the same level of protection as a full face helmet. So you can have your cake and eat it too!
Flip up or modular helmets are popular with tourers, commuters, instructors and those who want the versatility to chat to other riders or grab a snack or a drink without having to remove a helmet, and all without compromising on safety.
But how do you go about choosing the best flip up motorcycle helmet? Well that’s why we’re here to help. In this article, we give you the 9 best flip up helmets that offer the best combination of safety, comfort, looks, features and price, so keep reading to find out more.
Best Flip Up Helmets This Year: Our Criteria and Results
The best flip up helmets feature a chin bar and visor that, you guessed it, flip up out of the way without the need to take your helmet off. Why would you need to do this you might ask? But there are many circumstances where this feature comes in handy.
Paying for gas, popping into a shop, having a quick drink or a snack, or even a quick chat to another rider or your pillion passenger to name a few. However, while the flip up comes in handy, the primary job of your helmet is to offer protection.
We’ve put together the following list of the best flip up helmets available on the market today. There’s a price point and style for every rider. So make sure you click on the quick links to check the price of any of the helmets that may interest you.
| Brand | Model | Top Advantage | Top Disadvantage | Link To Purchase | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top Pick |   | Shoei | Neotech II | Designed for seamless integration with the SENA SRL/SRL2 Communication System | Expensive | Click To Check Price |
| Runner up |   | Bell | SRT Modular Helmet | Panovision shield with class 1 optics | Fairly heavy for a mid-price helmet | Click To Check Price |
| Also Consider |   | ScorpionEXO | EXO AT-950 | Versatile dual-sport helmet | Heavy | Click To Check Price |
| 4 |   | Sena | OutRush | Includes Bluetooth 5.0 technology | Wind noise can drown out the built-in speakers | Click To Check Price |
| 5 |   | LS2 Helmets | Valiant II Modular Helmet | Unique 180 degree opening chin bar | Tricky to install a Bluetooth intercom system | Click To Check Price |
| 6 |   | HJC | C91 | Features an Advanced Polycarbonate Composite Shell | Reviews complain of the sizing being on the small side | Click To Check the Price |
| 7 |   | ILM | Motorcycle Dual Visor Flip Up Helmet | Safety features include LED lights at the back | Complaints of poor ventilation | Click To Check Price |
| 8 |   | FreedConn | Modular Motorcycle Bluetooth Helmet | Equipped with Bluetooth 3.0 | Some reviews say that the sound quality could be better | Click To Check Price |
| 9 |   | 1Storm | Motorcycle Modular Full Face Helmet | Features an advanced Modular/Flip up and Dual Lens Design | Some complaints of wind noise | Click To Check Price |
So there you have our top picks. Maybe you found a flip up helmet that you like already. But keep reading for more details about each helmet and some of our top tips about what to look out for.
How We Select The Best Flip Up Helmets
The best flip up helmets not only need to look good, but they also need to offer protection that could literally save your life in the unfortunate case of an accident. So while the color and style are important, there are other more important features to look out for.
Safety Certifications
Motorcycle riding is considered a dangerous sport and that is why motorcycle helmets are compulsory in most countries. In addition, governments around the world have come up with their own safety standards for helmets sold within their country.
All helmets sold in the US must meet the Department of Transportation (DOT) safety standards. Likewise, all helmets sold in Europe are required to meet the standards set by the Economic Commission for Europe (ECE).
Governments in other markets (for example Canada), may create their own certification standard, but often allow the sale of helmets that are either DOT or ECE certified.
Weight
Due to their extra hinges and other opening and closing mechanisms, flip up helmets tend to be slightly heavier than their full face counterparts. However, nowadays most brands are making helmets with lightweight materials.
Look for a lightweight flip up helmet that won’t put any strain on your neck. This is especially true for riders who regularly take longer rides.
Comfort & Fit
Finding a comfortable helmet that fits you well is the most important factor when looking for a new flip up helmet. Flip up helmets come in different shapes and sizes, and people’s heads do too.
Make sure you try your helmet on before you buy, or check the size charts when buying online. Another thing to note is that a new helmet should feel tight at first. It may take a bit of time to ‘break-in’, but you should never feel any pain on your pressure points.
Brand Reputation
Look for top brands that have a history of innovation and a good reputation. While there are many cheap no-name brands on the market today that are DOT or ECE certified, the top brands put much more into their testing, so you can be sure these helmets surpass these standards.
Customer Reviews
While the team here at Mudbike try and test all the helmets listed ourselves, we also look at customer and professional reviews across a wide variety of motorcycling websites and forums. This gives the best and latest opinions from motorcycle enthusiasts themselves.
So there you have our criteria and some top tips about what to look for in the best flip helmet. Now let’s take a more in-depth look at the helmets that made it onto our list.
Best Modular Helmet With Bluetooth
Why choose a Bluetooth modular helmet? The best flip front helmets with Bluetooth can work as an important piece of safety gear. While they allow you to listen to music and take calls on the road, they can also be used to communicate with other riders and to follow GPS directions.
You might think you can do all this with your smartphone and wireless earbuds, but your earbuds can get squashed in your ears with your helmet on, and for safety reasons, you’ll need to stop to answer your phone or even fast forward to your favorite track.
The best modular helmets with Bluetooth either have a Bluetooth system installed or are Bluetooth compatible. Whichever system you choose, make sure it will work with your device. Plus if you plan to use an intercom system check the pairing and the range it covers.
Top Pick: Shoei Neotec II
The Shoei Neotec II Modular Helmet is a sleek and stylish Bluetooth compatible helmet that is perfect for long rides. With its lightweight construction and comfortable interior, this helmet will keep you protected and comfortable no matter where your journey takes you.
Advantages:
- Designed for seamless integration with the SENA SRL/SRL2 Communication System
- High quality and comfort
Disadvantages:
- Expensive
- Have to add on the SENA Communication System
The Neotec was first introduced by Shoei back in 2012, and since then it has earned a reputation as being one of the best modular helmets around, and quite rightly so. It’s a good-looking, lightweight helmet that has withstood the tests of time.
It’s undergone some upgrades over the years, which now includes the ability to seamlessly integrate with the all-new SENA SRL/SRL2 Communication System. However, adding this system comes at an additional cost to this high-end helmet which will make a dent in your wallet.
Other premium features include the SHOEI-exclusive ‘Multi-Ply’ Matrix AIM shell and Multi-Piece EPS liner combined with next-level aerodynamics, an internal sun shield and a Pinlock EVO fog-resistant visor system.
Like the sound of this one? Then click on the link below for the latest price.
Too expensive for your budget? Then keep reading for our best value modular Bluetooth helmet option.
Best Value Option: Sena Outrush Bluetooth Modular Motorcycle Helmet With Intercom System
The Sena Outrush Bluetooth Modular Motorcycle Helmet is a great choice for riders who want to stay connected and comfortable while on the road. With its advanced features and comfortable design, this helmet is sure to make your next ride more fun.
Advantages:
- Includes 4-Way Bluetooth Intercom, with 2-Way HD Intercom, powered by Bluetooth 5.0
- Easy to operate
Disadvantages:
- Wind noise can drown out the built-in speakers
- DOT rated, but not ECE certified
The Sena Outrush Bluetooth Modular Motorcycle Helmet is a high-tech helmet designed for riders who want to stay connected while out on the road. This helmet features a built-in Bluetooth intercom system that allows you to communicate with one other rider.
You can also connect your smartphone to the helmet via Bluetooth to listen to music, make phone calls or get GPS directions. In addition, the Sena Outrush is compatible with the Sena Utility App, giving you quick and easy access to all the helmet’s capabilities.
This smart modular helmet is composed of a multi-density EPS liner and lightweight DOT rated shell. It uses a quick-release ratchet strap system to secure the helmet comfortably and features an integrated drop-down sun visor alongside a face shield for eye protection.
This flip up smart helmet is packed with style and functionality, and is the one of the best helmets for the road. But don’t take our word for it – click on the link below for all the details and the latest price.
But don’t stop reading, we still have another Bluetooth helmet to go!
Also Consider: FreedConn Modular Motorcycle Bluetooth Helmet
FreedConn is a relatively new brand that is gaining popularity for its innovative technology and affordable pricing. Their products are designed to offer a hassle-free and enjoyable riding experience, and their modular Bluetooth helmet is no exception.
Advantages:
- Equipped with Bluetooth 3.0
- Meets and exceeds both ECE & DOT safety standards
Disadvantages:
- Some reviews say that the sound quality could be better
- Mixed reports about customer service
The FreedConn Bluetooth Modular Helmet is a well-designed helmet that provides plenty of protection, comfort and functionality for riders and all at a reasonable price.
As well as playing music, making calls, and listening to turn-by-turn navigation from your phone, there’s an inbuilt intercom with a range of up to 500m. You’re able to connect up to three riders, although only two of them can talk at the same time.
What’s more, is that this helmet meets and exceeds both ECE & DOT safety standards with its lightweight shell and advanced ventilation system. Plus, the interior lining is removable and washable so you don’t have to worry about putting on a stinky helmet.
As a budget helmet, this one might not give you all the optimal features of a premium brand, but this helmet will provide you with enough convenient features that makes it worth checking out.
Or keep reading for our next category.
Best Budget Modular Helmet
A good quality helmet doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg. A helmet’s main function is to protect your head. So as long as your flip up helmet is DOT or ECE rated you won’t need to compromise on safety.
The best budget modular helmets might not offer all of the bells and whistles of the premium helmets, but most of the major helmet brands do have a budget helmet option. You may not get the fancy graphics, but the following options all made the cut.
Top Pick: ScorpionEXO EXO-AT950 Helmet
The Scorpion EXO-AT950 is one of the most versatile helmets available. It’s a dual-sport or adventure lid that can be worn for on or off road rides. It’s this versatility that makes it stand out from the crowd. But it’s the price that makes this helmet a top choice.
Advantages:
- Versatile dual-sport helmet
- Competitive price
Disadvantages:
- At 5 lbs it’s a bit on the heavy side
- Available in limited colors
One of the stand out features of the ScorpionEXO AT-950 is that you can wear it in many different ways – take the peak off, remove the face shield to make space for goggles, or just wear it as is. There’s also plenty of venting, an internal sun shield, a pop-up chin bar and a removable liner.
Construction is from advanced LG polycarbonate and dual density EPS, resulting in a helmet that’s reasonably lightweight, strong and protective. Another bonus is that it comes in 3 shell sizes, so you can be sure to find one that fits. However, please note the sizing is a bit on the small side.
This helmet offers as much as many premium lids do, but is much more gentle on your pocket. While it might not feel like the most premium helmet on your head (the interior could be softer and a tiny bit more padded), it’s not going to break your bank balance.
Sound good? Then click on the link below for the latest price.
Or keep reading for another budget option.
Best Value Option: 1Storm Motorcycle Modular Full Face Helmet
If you’re looking for the best value budget helmet, then look no further than this 1Storm Modular Full Face Motorcycle Helmet. This DOT approved helmet packs in many features that you normally only find on a much more expensive helmet.
Advantages:
- Features an advanced Modular/Flip up and Dual Lens Design
- Six adjustable air vents for great ventilation
Disadvantages:
- Some complaints of wind noise
- Sizing is on the small side
This modular helmet has a lot to offer in design and overall build quality, especially for the crazy price tag. It features an Aerodynamic ABS Shell with Multi-Density EPS materials that provide full protection from any impact, and which meets and exceeds DOT standards.
In addition, this flip up helmet is super durable and lightweight. Weighing in at only 3.9 lbs there’ll be no strain on your neck. Plus it features a removable and washable liner so that you can keep the inside clean and odor free.
The ventilation system of this helmet is another feature worth mentioning. There are six air vents available with two top and two front adjustable vents and two rear exhaust vents. The ventilation system of this budget helmet does a decent job of keeping your head cool.
With its advanced modular and dual visor design this helmet offers the most bang for your buck. But don’t take our word for it, click on the link below for all the details and the latest price.
But don’t make a decision just yet; we have another great budget-friendly option.
Also Consider: HJC C91
HJC is a brand that has been making motorcycle helmets since 1971. Their mid to high-end range of helmets have made the company one of the top motorcycle helmet brands in the USA.
Their C91 helmet offers riders some of the best features on the market with a budget friendly price tag.
Advantages:
- Features an Advanced Polycarbonate Composite Shell
- Affordable
Disadvantages:
- Pinlock inserts sold separately
- Reviews complain of the sizing being on the small side
The HJC C91 is a motorcycle helmet that offers a good combination of comfort, safety, and affordability. It has a lightweight, aerodynamic shell made from an advanced polycarbonate composite which helps reduce wind noise and neck fatigue during long rides.
This helmet is also equipped with a moisture-wicking interior liner that is removable and washable, ensuring that your head stays dry and comfortable. It also has a sophisticated ventilation system that helps to keep your head cool.
There are two front intake vents and two rear exhaust vents, which work together to create a flow of air that helps regulate temperature and reduce fogging.
The HJC C91 meets DOT and ECE safety standards and features a multi-density EPS liner that absorbs impact energy in the event of a crash. The helmet also has a reinforced chin strap and a quick-release buckle, which helps with a secure fit.
Overall, the HJC C91 is a great helmet for riders who want a comfortable, safe, and affordable option. So make sure you click on the link below for the latest price.
Or keep reading for our next selection.
Best Flip Up Helmets
Modular or flip up helmets have long been the go-to choice for tourers and commuters and anybody who values versatility and practicality along with protection and comfort.
Popping up the visor and chin bar is great when you need a breath of fresh air, or want to have a quick conversation with your pillion passenger or a fellow road user.
And despite what people say, the modular nature of these helmets does not decrease their safety. In many respects, they offer similar protection and comfort as the best full face helmets, but with added convenience.
So without further ado, let’s take a look at the best flip up helmets that made the cut.
Top Pick: Bell SRT Modular Helmet
Bell is legendary for their innovative and stylish helmets which they have been making since 1954. The Bell SRT modular helmet was first launched in 2018, and has been super popular ever since, and for good reason.
Advantages:
- Panovision shield with class 1 optics
- Compatible with eyewear or glasses
Disadvantages:
- Fairly heavy for a mid-price helmet
- Some complaints about the ventilation
The Bell SRT Modular Helmet is a versatile and feature-packed helmet designed for riders seeking convenience, comfort and safety. The Bell SRT comes in both full face and modular styles, and by just looking at them it’s difficult to tell them apart.
However, apart from the obvious flip up difference of the modular SRT, there are some other bonuses to this helmet. Firstly, it meets DOT and ECE safety standards, ensuring that it gives good protection in the unfortunate event of an impact.
This helmet also incorporates a Panovision face shield with Class 1 optics, plus a drop-down sun shield provides additional eye protection against the sun’s glare. Overall, the visor system is simple and easy to use, while providing excellent peripheral vision.
Another great feature is that this helmet includes recessed EPS speaker pockets which are bigger than on most other helmets, and which make this helmet Bluetooth ready.
Overall, this helmet is a great price/quality option, so click on the link below for the latest price.
Or keep reading for another top pick.
Best Value Option: ILM Motorcycle Dual Visor Flip Up Helmet
ILM was established as a motorcycle protective gear brand in the US in 2013. Since then it has become one of the biggest selling motorcycle helmet brands online. Their ILM Motorcycle Dual Visor Flip Up Helmet is a great value option and gets good reviews overall.
Advantages:
- Safety features include LED lights at the back
- Includes an anti-scratch, anti-fog and wide view clear visor
Disadvantages:
- Complaints of poor ventilation
- Some reports of quality control issues
This budget friendly helmet made it onto our list as it packs in some great features for the price. As you would expect, the ILM Dual Visor Flip Up Helmet’s high resistance ABS Shell meets and exceeds FMVSS-218 and DOT Safety Standards.
But the LED back lights on this helmet are an added safety feature not found on many other helmets. These LED lights flash at different speeds depending on the rider’s preference. The LED function is easily accessed by pressing the control button on the back of the helmet.
It also features a full face anti-scratch, anti-fog, wide view clear visor that can be used both night and day, and a built-in tinted sun visor which helps block out the light on bright, sunny days. The visor is easy to detach too, so that you can clean off the bugs after a long ride.
The helmet liner and cheek pads are comfortable, lightweight and easy to remove and wash. And the ventilation is considered adequate with vents in both the front and rear, however you can expect some wind noise with the vents fully open.
Like the sound of this one? Then click on the link below for the latest price.
Still not found what you’re looking for? Then keep reading for our final option.
Also Consider: LS2 Valiant II Modular Helmet
LS2 began as one of China’s pioneering motorcycle helmet brands. Since then they have met all the safety accreditations and expanded worldwide. Their LS2 Valiant II Modular Helmet is an upgraded version of the previous Valiant with some serious improvements.
Advantages:
- Unique 180 degree opening chin bar
- DOT and ECE certified
Disadvantages:
- Tricky to install a Bluetooth intercom system
- Sizing is on the small side
The LS2 Valiant II Modular Helmet is a lightweight helmet that is made from LS2’s Proprietary Kinetic Polymer Alloy (KPA). This is a state-of-the-art material that offers a small amount of flexibility that disperses any impact energy to give you a tough and durable outer shell.
Inside this helmet features a multi-layer EPS liner with a fully adjustable, multi-port, flow-through ventilation with ported EPS to keep you cool. Plus it has a high quality technical fabric liner that wicks moisture to keep you dry, and it’s easy to remove and wash.
The other stand out feature is the 180 degree flip-up chin bar which makes this both a full face or open helmet. Why would you need this feature? Well if you’re cruising around on a hot day, you will appreciate the wind on your face.
Other features include a polycarbonate ‘Class A’ shield which is optically correct, scratch and UV resistant, plus there is a built-in sunshield. It has a quick change shield system plus the helmet is Pinlock ready. A Pinlock shield and insert are included in the box.
LS2 is known for offering great value helmets and the Valiant II Modular Helmet offers all that and more. So click on the link below for more details and the latest price.
So there you have our 9 best flip up helmets that made it onto our list. Still unsure which to buy? Then keep reading for a table of our final results.
Summary: Our Final Results and Picks for the Best Flip Up Helmets
While we can recommend all 9 of the best flip up helmets on this list, there are a few with stand out features that made them the Mudbike teams’ favorites. So check out our final results from each category below.
| Brand | Model | Why We Like It | Link To Check Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Modular Bluetooth Helmet | | Sena | OutRush | Includes Bluetooth 5.0 technology with speaker and microphone integrated into the helmet | Click To Check Price |
| Best Budget Modular Helmet | | ScorpionEXO | EXO AT-950 | One of the most versatile modular dual-sport helmets available | Click To Check Price |
| Best Flip Up Helmet | | Bell | SRT Modular Helmet | Panovision shield with class 1 optics | Click To Check Price |
There are clearly a lot of flip up or modular helmets in the market but we’ve identified the best price points for each category so you don’t have to.
Make sure you click the link on the helmet that you’re most interested in to check the price because it’s bound to be on sale this time of the year.
People Also Ask
What is the point of a modular helmet?
The point of a modular helmet is to give the rider two different options when riding. A modular helmet provides all the safety of a full face helmet – with the helmet closed and the chin bar down it looks and feels like a full face helmet.
However, sometimes a full face helmet can feel too claustrophobic, especially if you ride in warmer climates. With a modular helmet you can open the helmet to get fresh air, or to chat to a fellow road user without the hassle of removing your helmet.
What is the advantage of a modular motorcycle helmet?
The advantage of a modular motorcycle helmet is that you can leave it on your head while performing simple tasks that would normally entail removing a full face helmet, each and every time you quickly want to do something.
These tasks may include paying for gas, asking for directions, having a drink or a snack, going to a cash machine or simply chatting to your pillion passenger. Another advantage is that you can simply open your helmet to catch some air on your face.
Leaving your modular motorcycle helmet on your head also reduces the risks of scratching or even dropping your helmet which could result in damage to the integrity of your helmet, which would mean buying a new one!
Are modular helmets safer than full face?
Modular helmets are not safer than full face helmets as the removable chin bar on a modular helmet is a weak point if you have any facial impact. However, all helmets that are DOT and ECE approved are safe to use on the roads while riding.
Which modular motorcycle helmet flips all the way back?
There are quite a few brands that feature modular motorcycle helmets that flip all the way back. However, the one that made it onto our list is the LS2 Valiant II.
This helmet features a unique 180 degree flip over chin bar that secures in place at the back of the helmet. This gives you 2 helmets in 1 – the benefits and safety of a full face helmet with the fresh air of an open face, with the added benefit of leaving the visor in place.
Are modular helmets easier to put on?
Another reason that modular or flip up helmets are growing in popularity is that they are easier to put on. With the chin bar raised you can put on or take off a modular helmet without squashing your face or feeling like you can’t breathe.
Are modular helmets quieter than full face?
No, in general modular helmets are noisier than full face helmets, but not by much. This is because the flip up system causes more wind resistance which in turn creates more wind noise. However, the fit and style of each helmet can reduce the noise levels.
Plus, some modular helmets feature noise reduction systems and good aerodynamic designs which contribute to keeping noise levels down. However, it’s always important to get a helmet with a good, snug fit as this will also reduce wind and noise levels.
Summary: Our Final Results and Picks for the Best Flip Up Helmets
While we can recommend all 9 of the best flip up helmets on this list, there are a few with stand out features that made them the Mudbike teams’ favorites. So check out our final results from each category below.
| Brand | Model | Why We Like It | Link To Check Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Modular Bluetooth Helmet | | Sena | OutRush | Includes Bluetooth 5.0 technology with speaker and microphone integrated into the helmet | Click To Check Price |
| Best Budget Modular Helmet | | ScorpionEXO | EXO AT-950 | One of the most versatile modular dual-sport helmets available | Click To Check Price |
| Best Flip Up Helmet | | Bell | SRT Modular Helmet | Panovision shield with class 1 optics | Click To Check Price |
There are clearly a lot of flip up or modular helmets in the market but we’ve identified the best price points for each category so you don’t have to.
Make sure you click the link on the helmet that you’re most interested in to check the price because it’s bound to be on sale this time of the year.
