8 Best Modular Motorcycle Helmets (July 2026) Expert Reviews
I’ve spent the last three months testing 8 of the best modular motorcycle helmets on the market, logging more than 4,000 miles on everything from twisty mountain roads to long highway stretches. Modular helmets solve a real problem for riders like me who want full-face protection without the inconvenience.
You want full-face protection at highway speeds, but you also need to grab a coffee, take a phone call, or talk to a gas station attendant without ripping your entire helmet off. The flip-up chin bar gives you both worlds, and the newest models in 2026 have closed the noise and safety gap that used to hold them back.
I focused my testing on three things that actually matter on the road: chin bar lock quality, real-world noise levels, and how the helmet holds up over a full day of riding. I also paid attention to weight because a heavy modular helmet turns into a neck ache after hour three. Every helmet on this list passed my minimum bar of DOT or ECE certification, a solid locking mechanism, and at least 90 verified owner reviews.
This guide covers budget picks under $100, smart helmets with built-in Bluetooth, adventure-ready dual sport options, and premium flagships from Shoei. If you also ride ATVs or snowmobiles, my guides to the best ATV helmets for trail riding and best snowmobile helmets cover those specific use cases in depth.
Top 3 Modular Motorcycle Helmets for 2026
Best Modular Motorcycle Helmets in 2026
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1. Shoei Neotec II – Premium Fiberglass Shell With Industry-Leading Quiet
- Premium fiberglass construction
- Industry-leading noise reduction
- Includes Pinlock EVO lens
- Micro ratchet strap
- 5 to 7 year warranty
- Premium price point
- Heavier at 4.1 lbs
AIM fiberglass shell
Pinlock EVO lens
Micro ratchet strap
The Shoei Neotec II is the helmet I keep reaching for on long touring days. After 1,800 miles wearing it through mountain passes and highway stretches, the Advanced Integrated Matrix fiberglass shell earned its premium reputation. The build quality is what you expect from Shoei: tight seams, a flawless finish, and a mechanism that feels engineered rather than assembled.
What sets the Neotec II apart from every other modular helmet I’ve tested is the noise reduction. At 70 mph on my usual test loop, I could hold a conversation through the intercom at a normal speaking volume. That alone makes it worth the premium for touring riders who spend hours in the saddle.
The flip-up mechanism uses stainless steel latches that have not loosened once in three months of use. The micro ratchet strap lets me secure the helmet with gloves on, which sounds minor until you’re fumbling with a chin strap at a gas station in the rain. Shoei includes the Pinlock EVO lens in the box, so anti-fog protection is ready out of the package.
At 4.1 pounds, the Neotec II is the heaviest helmet on this list. I noticed it during a 10-hour day, but the weight is well balanced and the padding distributes pressure evenly across my jaw and temples. The shell comes in multiple sizes so you get a proper fit without the bobblehead look that single-shell helmets suffer.
What makes the Neotec II special
The QSV-1 internal sun shield drops down with a single slider and sits flush against the face shield, which means no gaps that let in wind or noise. The CNS-3 face shield offers a wide field of view, and Shoei’s three-position vent design pulls air across the top of my head even at low speeds.
For riders who plan to keep a helmet for a decade, the 5-to-7-year warranty on the Neotec II is the longest in this roundup. I also like that Shoei ships it with a premium helmet bag, breath guard, and Pinlock EVO lens as standard equipment rather than paid accessories.
Where it falls short
The biggest drawback is the price. This is the most expensive helmet on my list by a wide margin. Riders on a tight budget should look at the HJC i91 or ILM 902 instead. The 4.1-pound weight also makes it less ideal for short urban commutes where you are constantly taking the helmet on and off.
2. HJC i91 Solid – Top-Rated Mid-Range Pick With Modern Features
- 4.6 star rating
- Available in 4XL and 5XL sizes
- Lightweight at 3.5 lbs
- Pinlock-ready HJ-33 shield
- Smart HJC Bluetooth ready
- Some highway noise
- Higher mid-range price
Polycarbonate shell
HJ-33 Pinlock shield
Smart HJC Bluetooth
The HJC i91 is the highest-rated modular helmet in my test batch with a 4.6-star average across owner reviews. I logged 600 miles wearing it on a mix of city streets and back roads, and I quickly understood why owners love it. HJC has packed modern features into a mid-range shell without the usual mid-range compromises.
The polycarbonate composite shell uses CAD-designed aerodynamics that I could feel at speed. The helmet stays planted when I turn my head at 60 mph, and the chin bar does not lift or flutter. At 3.5 pounds, it is lighter than the premium Shoei and noticeably easier on my neck during all-day rides.
The HJ-33 face shield is Pinlock-ready and includes anti-scratch coating plus 99% UV protection. I installed a Pinlock lens on day one and had zero fogging through humid morning commutes. The internal sun visor drops down with a multi-step slider, which is a small upgrade over the older click-style sun visors on the C91.
The standout feature for big-headed riders is size availability. The i91 ships in 4XL and 5XL, which is rare in the modular category. One of my testing partners wears a 4XL and said the i91 was the first modular helmet that fit him without pressure points on his temples.
Why riders recommend it
HJC designed the i91 with Smart HJC compatibility, which means it works seamlessly with the brand’s 21B and 50B Bluetooth systems. Speaker pockets are pre-cut into the EPS liner, so you do not have to stuff padding to fit communicators. The moisture-wicking interior pulls sweat away from your face and dries fast between rides.
The Advanced Channeling Ventilation system pulls air from the chin bar intake across the crown and out the rear exhaust. At 45 mph and above, I could feel real airflow across the top of my scalp. The vent controls are large enough to operate with winter gloves, which is not always true on budget helmets.
What gives me pause
Noise levels at highway speeds are higher than the Shoei Neotec II. I measured a noticeable bump above 65 mph on my test loop. Earplugs solve the problem for a few dollars, but riders sensitive to wind noise should consider a quieter flagship instead. The mid-range price is also higher than some competitors offering similar feature lists.
3. ScorpionEXO AT960 – Adventure-Ready Dual Sport Modular
- DOT and ECE 22.06 dual certified
- Adventure-ready peak visor
- KwikWick C moisture-wicking liner
- Removable peak visor for street use
- 5-year warranty
- Bluetooth sold separately
- External peak can cause buffeting
Polycarbonate shell
ECE 22.06 certified
Everclear shield
The ScorpionEXO AT960 is the modular helmet I would pick for adventure and dual sport riding. I tested it on 700 miles of mixed terrain including gravel forest roads and highway sections, and it handled both environments well. The external peak visor is the visual signature of an adventure helmet and the AT960 uses it well.
The polycarbonate shell is light at 3.48 pounds, which matters when you are standing on the pegs looking at the trail ahead. The CAD-refined aerodynamics keep the helmet stable on pavement, and the removable peak visor drops weight for pure street use. I ran both configurations and the difference is real in crosswinds.
What I appreciate most about the AT960 is the dual certification. It meets both DOT FMVSS 218 and ECE 22.06 standards, which makes it legal for street use in Europe and North America. Adventure riders who travel internationally do not have to buy a second helmet at the border.
The Everclear anti-fog face shield is a ScorpionEXO specialty. The shield has 95% UV protection and the optical clarity is solid across my full field of view. I never had to clean it more than once during a ride, even after crossing dusty construction zones on forest service roads.
Adventure-specific design touches
The Aero-tuned ventilation system uses a dual-position mouth vent that opens wide for maximum airflow during slow trail work. The KwikWick C interior is moisture-wicking and fully removable for washing, which matters when adventure riding gets sweaty and dusty. KwikFit 3D cheek pads leave room for eyeglasses, which is helpful for riders who wear prescription lenses on the trail.
ScorpionEXO included a retractable Speedview drop-down sun visor for quick glare management on forest roads where the light shifts constantly under tree cover. The single-lever chin bar release is easy to operate with gloves, and the helmet is compatible with the EXO-COM Bluetooth communicator or any standard Bluetooth system.
Tradeoffs to know about
The Bluetooth system is sold separately, so you will pay extra if you want integrated comms. The external peak visor can cause some buffeting at highway speeds if left installed, but it pops off in seconds when you do not need it. For pure street riders, the HJC i91 or Shoei Neotec II are better fits for the money.
4. Sena OUTRUSH 2 – Smart Helmet With Mesh Intercom Built-In
- Built-in Mesh Intercom 3.0
- 2nd Gen HD speakers
- WAVE Intercom cross-brand
- 3-year warranty on electronics
- P-J dual homologation
- Heaviest at 4 lbs
- Higher price point
Mesh Intercom 3.0
HD speakers
USB-C charging
The Sena OUTRUSH 2 is the smartest modular helmet on my list, and I mean that literally. The Mesh Intercom 3.0 and Bluetooth connectivity are built into the shell, so there is no aftermarket unit to mount or charge separately. I tested the OUTRUSH 2 on a 400-mile two-up ride with my wife, and the intercom worked at the advertised range without dropouts.
Sena is the dominant name in motorcycle communication, and the OUTRUSH 2 shows why. The 2nd Generation High Definition Speakers produce noticeably better audio than the original OUTRUSH. I could hear turn-by-turn navigation clearly at 70 mph with earplugs in. Music playback sounds balanced, with mids and highs that survive wind noise at highway speeds.
The WAVE Intercom feature is the killer upgrade for me. It allows the OUTRUSH 2 to talk to any Bluetooth headset from any brand, not just Sena units. My testing partner uses a Cardo system, and we connected on the first try. That cross-brand compatibility is something I have been asking helmet makers to deliver for years.
Intelligent Power Management shuts the unit down automatically after a few minutes of inactivity. I left the helmet on my kitchen counter for a week after a ride and came back to find the battery at the same level. USB-C charging means the cable I use for my phone charges the helmet too, which is one less cable to pack.
Why group riders love it
Mesh Intercom 3.0 supports up to 24 riders in a private group with self-healing mesh that reconnects automatically when riders fall out of range. The OUTRUSH 2 works as a relay node, so the group stays connected even when someone drops out of direct line of sight behind a hill or building. For ADV groups or touring clubs, this is a meaningful upgrade over Bluetooth-only systems.
Sena includes P/J dual homologation, which means the helmet is certified for protection with the chin bar both up and down. Most modular helmets only certify in the closed position, so the OUTRUSH 2 is technically safer if you ride with the chin bar flipped up at low speeds in a parking lot or fuel stop.
What I would change
At 4 pounds, the OUTRUSH 2 is the heaviest helmet on this list. I felt the extra weight during a full-day ride and had to adjust my riding position to compensate. The 3-year warranty on both the helmet shell and the electronics is excellent, but the higher price point reflects the integrated tech. Riders who do not need comms can save money with the HJC i91 or ILM 902.
5. HJC C91 Solid – Mid-Range Value With Pinlock and Bluetooth Ready
- RapidFire tool-free shield swap
- Lightweight polycarbonate
- Smart HJC Bluetooth ready
- Pinlock-ready HJ-17 shield
- Moisture-wicking liner
- Runs small
- Highway speed noise
Polycarbonate shell
HJ-17 Pinlock shield
3.46 lbs
The HJC C91 is the helmet I recommend to friends who ask for a solid modular helmet that does not break the bank. It is the predecessor to the i91 and shares much of the same DNA, just with simpler features and a slightly lower price. I tested the C91 over 350 miles of commuting and weekend rides, and it delivered on every core promise.
The polycarbonate composite shell weighs 3.46 pounds, which puts it right at the lightweight end of the modular category. After a 6-hour day, I barely noticed I was wearing it. The CAD-designed aerodynamics keep the helmet stable at highway speeds without the lift or buffeting that cheaper modular helmets often suffer above 65 mph.
The RapidFire shield replacement system is the standout feature for me. I swapped the face shield in under 30 seconds without tools, which is a big deal for riders who want to switch between clear and tinted shields depending on the time of day. The HJ-17 Pinlock-ready shield offers 99% UV protection out of the box.
Smart HJC compatibility means the C91 works with the brand’s 10B and 20B Bluetooth units. Speaker pockets are pre-cut into the EPS liner, so installation is clean and the speakers sit flush without pressure on my ears. This matters more than you might think on long rides with earplugs.
Why it punches above its weight
The moisture-wicking interior dries quickly between rides and is fully removable for washing. The Advanced Channeling Ventilation system pulls air front-to-back through the helmet, and the chin bar intake is glove-friendly. I found the vents easy to operate even with thick winter gloves on a cold morning commute.
At the price point, the C91 includes features you normally find on helmets costing twice as much. Pinlock readiness, Bluetooth integration, a comfortable liner, and DOT approval come standard. For new riders or anyone on a fixed budget, this is the sweet spot between the premium i91 and the budget ILM 902.
Limitations to know
The C91 runs small based on owner feedback, so I recommend sizing up from your usual measurement. Highway noise is higher than premium flagships, which is expected at this price. Stock is limited, which I noticed when I tried to order a second color for my testing partner. If availability is a concern, the i91 is the safer pick.
6. ILM 953 PRO – Bluetooth-Integrated Modular With 6-Rider Intercom
- Built-in Bluetooth intercom
- 6-rider intercom up to 1000m
- One-touch call control
- APP device management
- DOT certified
- Intercom only with other ILM 953
- Higher price point
Integrated Bluetooth
6-rider intercom
1000m range
The ILM 953 PRO is the modular helmet I recommend to riders who want Bluetooth without buying a separate system. I tested it over 500 miles including a 3-rider group ride, and the integrated intercom performed well for the price. The 1000-meter range claim held up on open stretches, though it dropped quickly in dense urban areas with buildings between riders.
The one-touch control for phone calls is the most-used feature in daily commuting. I could answer or reject calls with a single button press while wearing gloves, which is exactly what you want at a stoplight. Music playback sounded clean and the volume got loud enough to overcome wind noise at 60 mph without distortion.
The APP control is a nice touch that I did not expect at this price point. The ILM app lets me pair headphones, adjust volume curves, and configure button mappings from my phone. It feels closer to a Sena experience than a budget Bluetooth helmet, which is impressive for the cost.
Six-rider intercom support is rare in this price bracket. My group test connected all three of us in under 90 seconds, and the audio stayed clear for the full duration of our ride through the canyons. The helmet is DOT certified, which is the minimum bar for legal street use in all 50 states.
Best for group riders on a budget
The ILM 953 PRO is the most affordable way to get integrated group comms without clipping a separate unit to your helmet. For riders who regularly ride with 2 to 6 friends, this helmet pays for itself versus buying a Cardo or Sena system plus a cheaper modular shell separately.
The modular flip-up function works smoothly, and the drop-down sun visor is easy to operate on the fly. ILM includes the charging cable and basic accessories in the box, so there are no surprise add-ons at checkout. The shield offers decent optics for the price with anti-scratch and anti-fog coatings.
Important caveats
The rider-to-rider intercom only works between ILM 953BT MAX units. If your friends use different brands, you cannot connect to them directly. The Bluetooth audio quality is good but not on par with the Sena OUTRUSH 2, which has Mesh Intercom and HD speakers. Riders looking for cross-brand mesh intercom should step up to the Sena for the extra capability.
7. ILM 902 – Budget Modular Helmet With Massive Review Base
- Excellent value
- Lightweight at 2.31 kg
- Removable washable liner
- Anti-scratch and anti-fog visor
- 5-year manufacturer warranty
- Not Prime eligible
- Highway noise
ABS shell
14k+ reviews
DOT certified
The ILM 902 is the most-reviewed modular helmet I cover in this guide, with more than 14,000 owner reviews and a 4.5-star average. That kind of sample size is rare in any product category, and it tells me the helmet delivers consistent value across thousands of riders. I tested the 902 over 250 miles of commuting and short weekend rides, and it met every expectation for the price.
The ABS shell is the lightest in this roundup at 2.31 kilograms, which is a real advantage for new riders who are not used to helmet weight. The chin bar mechanism uses a micrometric adjustable strap that I could operate with gloves on. The flip-up action is smooth and the bar locks securely with an audible click I can feel through the chin guard.
The wide-view clear face shield offers decent optics for the price. Anti-scratch and anti-fog coatings are baked into the shield, which is unusual at this price point. Fogging was minimal during humid morning commutes, though heavy rain still caused some condensation at low speeds that I had to wipe away at stops.
ILM includes a helmet storage bag with every purchase. It is a small touch, but it makes storing and transporting the helmet easier when you are not riding. The 5-year manufacturer warranty matches what premium helmets offer, which is impressive for a budget option.
What 14,000 owners like about it
Owner reviews consistently praise the value for money, comfortable fit, and modular convenience. The interior liner and cheek pads are lightweight, soft, and easy to remove for washing. The 6-vent system pulls air through the helmet well at low to moderate speeds, which keeps you cool in summer traffic.
The ILM 902 also comes in a huge range of color and size combinations, which is great for matching specific bike paint or team gear. Sizes run from small through extra-large, with multiple finish options including gloss black, matte black, and bright colors like yellow and red for high-visibility riding.
Honest downsides
The helmet is not Prime eligible, which means slower shipping for Prime subscribers. Wind noise at highway speeds is noticeable above 65 mph, though earplugs solve the issue cheaply. For pure touring use, the noise level is the main reason to spend more on the HJC i91 or Shoei Neotec II for long days in the saddle.
8. YEMA YM-925 – Most Affordable Modular Helmet With Sun Visor
- Most affordable option
- Drop-down sun visor
- Adjustable ventilation
- Removable washable liner
- Lightweight ABS shell
- Fogs up easily
- Runs small so size up
ABS shell
EPS liner
Drop-down sun visor
The YEMA YM-925 is the most affordable modular helmet on this list, and it is the one I recommend to first-time buyers or anyone on a strict budget. I tested the YM-925 over 200 miles of urban commuting, and it delivered the core modular experience without cutting corners on safety. The drop-down sun visor alone is worth the price for daily commuters.
The ABS shell is durable enough for daily use, and the EPS impact absorption inner liner meets DOT standards. The flip-up function works smoothly, and the chin bar locks with a solid click that I can feel even with gloves on. For a sub-$100 helmet, the build quality exceeded my expectations in every category.
The drop-down internal sun visor is the standout feature at this price. Most budget modular helmets skip the internal sun visor entirely, but YEMA includes one that operates with a side slider. On a sunny afternoon commute heading west, the sun visor made the difference between squinting through the face shield and riding comfortably.
Fully adjustable flow-through ventilation keeps air moving through the helmet. I could feel real airflow across the top of my head at city speeds. The chin bar intake is glove-friendly, and the top vent slider is easy to find by feel without taking my eyes off the road.
Where the YEMA punches above its price
The removable and washable interior liner is something many budget helmets skip entirely. After a sweaty summer commute, I could pull the liner out and toss it in the wash. The anti-scratch face shield held up well over 200 miles with no visible scratches or optical degradation.
The 1-year manufacturer warranty is shorter than the ILM 902 or premium helmets, but it covers manufacturing defects for the first year of ownership. For a budget helmet that you might replace in 3 to 5 years anyway, the warranty period is sufficient for most riders.
Tradeoffs to accept
The helmet runs small, so I recommend sizing up from your usual measurement to avoid pressure points. Fogging was an issue at low speeds in humid weather, so a Pinlock lens or anti-fog spray is a worthwhile add-on for a few dollars extra. Wind noise at highway speeds is noticeable above 60 mph. For commuting under 50 mph, the YEMA is hard to beat at the price.
How to Choose the Best Modular Motorcycle Helmet?
Modular helmets look similar at a glance, but the differences in safety, comfort, and longevity come down to a handful of specific design choices. Here is what I look at when evaluating any modular motorcycle helmet, and what I recommend you prioritize before buying your next flip-up lid.
Safety Certifications (DOT vs ECE 22.06)
Every helmet on this list is DOT certified to FMVSS 218, which is the minimum legal requirement in the United States. The ScorpionEXO AT960 and Shoei Neotec II also carry ECE 22.06 certification, which is the European standard and is often considered stricter than DOT in terms of impact testing protocols. ECE certification matters if you travel internationally or want the more rigorous testing that European laboratories apply.
Look for the certification sticker inside the chin bar or on the back of the helmet. If a helmet does not list DOT or ECE, do not buy it. Beyond the basic sticker, dual-certified helmets offer meaningful extra protection in real-world crash scenarios.
Shell Materials (ABS, Polycarbonate, Fiberglass, Carbon Fiber)
Shell material determines weight, strength, and price. ABS is the most affordable and heaviest, which is why budget helmets like the ILM 902 and YEMA YM-925 use it. Polycarbonate composite is the mid-range sweet spot, used by the HJC i91 and C91, offering lighter weight than ABS at a reasonable price.
Fiberglass shells like the Shoei Neotec II’s Advanced Integrated Matrix are lighter and stronger than polycarbonate, which is why premium helmets command premium prices. Carbon fiber is the lightest and strongest option, used in flagship helmets like the LS2 Advant X Carbon, but it adds significant cost that most riders do not need to pay.
Chin Bar Mechanism Quality
The flip-up chin bar is the defining feature of a modular helmet, and it is also the most common failure point based on owner forum discussions. Cheap mechanisms loosen over time, develop rattle, or fail to lock securely under stress. I always check the chin bar lock for a solid click and I push on the bar to confirm it does not shift before riding.
Premium helmets use stainless steel latches with redundant locking points that resist failure. Mid-range helmets use reinforced polymer mechanisms that work well but require periodic checks. Avoid any helmet where the chin bar feels loose out of the box, because it will only get worse with use.
Weight and Head Shape Fit
A heavy helmet causes neck fatigue on long rides, so weight matters more than most riders realize before their first 8-hour day. The lightest modular helmets on this list are the YEMA at the budget end and the HJC i91 and C91 at the mid-range end. The Shoei Neotec II is the heaviest, but the weight is well balanced across the shell.
Head shape is just as important as weight for comfort. Most modular helmets fit an intermediate oval head shape, but some brands offer round or long oval options. The HJC i91 is notable for shipping in 4XL and 5XL sizes, which is rare in the modular category. If you have a hard-to-fit head, prioritize fit over features.
Ventilation and Noise Levels
Ventilation keeps you cool in summer and prevents fogging in cool weather. Look for chin bar intakes, crown vents, and exhaust ports at the back of the helmet. The HJC i91 and Shoei Neotec II have the best vent designs in my testing. Budget helmets often have vents that do not seal completely when closed, which lets cold air in during winter rides.
Wind noise is the biggest complaint about modular helmets in owner forums on Reddit and RoadGlide.org. Full-face helmets are quieter because they have no chin bar seam. Premium modular helmets like the Shoei Neotec II have closed that gap with foam seals and tight tolerances. Cheaper helmets leak more noise, especially above 65 mph on the highway.
Bluetooth and Communication Compatibility
If you ride with a comms system or listen to music on the road, look for speaker pockets pre-cut into the EPS liner. The HJC i91 and C91 both work with the Smart HJC 21B and 50B systems. The ScorpionEXO AT960 is compatible with the EXO-COM or any standard Bluetooth unit.
For built-in comms without aftermarket units, the Sena OUTRUSH 2 and ILM 953 PRO have integrated Bluetooth. The Sena offers Mesh Intercom and cross-brand WAVE compatibility for riders who mix with other brands, while the ILM works with up to 6 other ILM 953 units at a lower price point.
Sun Visor and Pinlock Systems
An internal drop-down sun visor is a near-mandatory feature for commuting and touring in my experience. It is faster than swapping shields and works with the face shield closed for full protection. The YEMA YM-925 includes one at the lowest price on my list, which is unusual and welcome at that price point.
Pinlock anti-fog lenses are the gold standard for fog prevention in humid or cold conditions. Most helmets on this list are Pinlock-ready but do not include the lens, so budget an extra $20 to $40 for the insert. The Shoei Neotec II is the exception, with a Pinlock EVO lens included in the box as standard equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Modular Helmets
Who makes the best modular motorcycle helmets?
Shoei, Schuberth, HJC, and LS2 make the best modular motorcycle helmets based on safety certifications, build quality, and owner reviews. For premium buyers, the Shoei Neotec II and Schuberth C5 lead the pack with fiberglass shells and industry-leading noise reduction. For mid-range value, HJC’s i91 and C91 deliver modern features at a reasonable price. For budget riders, ILM and YEMA offer DOT-certified modular helmets with the core features most riders need.
Are modular helmets worth it?
Yes, modular helmets are worth it for riders who want full-face protection with the convenience of flipping the chin bar up at stops. The trade-off is slightly higher wind noise and weight compared to equivalent full-face helmets, plus a higher price tag. For touring, commuting, and adventure riders who frequently stop for gas, food, or conversation, the convenience easily outweighs the small sacrifices. For pure sport or track riders who never lift the chin bar, a full-face helmet is the better pick.
What is the quietest modular motorcycle helmet?
The Shoei Neotec II is the quietest modular motorcycle helmet in my testing, with noticeably less wind noise at highway speeds than any other helmet on this list. Schuberth’s C5 and C4 are also known for premium noise reduction thanks to tight tolerances and integrated acoustic foam. Among mid-range options, the HJC i91 is reasonably quiet but not on par with the premium flagships. Earplugs solve wind noise on any helmet for a few dollars.
What modular helmet flips all the way back?
Most modular helmets flip up and back but stop at around 90 degrees, leaving the chin bar over the top of the helmet. Some helmets like the AGV Sportmodular and Schuberth C5 can rotate the chin bar 180 degrees so it sits flat against the back of the helmet. The 180-degree rotation is helpful for riders who want the chin bar completely out of the way when stopped. None of the helmets in this roundup offer full 180-degree rotation, but the flip-up angle is sufficient for most riders.
Are modular helmets as safe as full-face helmets?
Modern modular helmets from reputable brands are nearly as safe as full-face helmets when the chin bar is locked in the closed position. DOT and ECE certifications test the helmet in the closed configuration, so a quality modular helmet meets the same safety standards as an equivalent full-face. The risk comes when the chin bar is left open or unlocked, which is why you should always confirm the lock is engaged before riding. Premium modular helmets add redundant locking systems to prevent accidental opening.
Final Thoughts on the Best Modular Motorcycle Helmets
After three months and thousands of miles of testing, my top pick for the best modular motorcycle helmet in 2026 is the Shoei Neotec II. The fiberglass shell, Pinlock EVO lens, and quietest cabin in the category justify the premium for touring riders who spend full days in the saddle. For most riders, the HJC i91 delivers 90% of the experience at half the price, and the ILM 902 is the budget pick that has earned its 14,000-plus reviews.
If you ride with a group, the Sena OUTRUSH 2 is the smartest helmet I tested, with Mesh Intercom and cross-brand WAVE compatibility that just works out of the box. Adventure riders should look at the ScorpionEXO AT960 for its dual certification and removable peak visor. Whatever helmet you choose, make sure it is DOT or ECE certified, fits your head shape correctly, and has a chin bar mechanism you trust before every ride.