The modern variety of helmets is surprising, but the modular and full face models are popular types for fast driving as they have a high degree of protection and are comfortable. Despite the large variety, it’s better to choose the best modular helmet, as it has a number of advantages compared to full face unit.
Firstly, it is the ability to raise the visor and chin curtain in order to drink or to talk. Secondly, the convenience of design allows you to wear glasses that is uncomfortable for owners of the full face helmets. Thirdly, the button for raising the protective glass is usually located on the left side and can be easily pressed with gloves.
Some helmets manufacturers supplement their products with built-in sunglasses that easily appear after the button pushing. In some cases, due to additional structural details (jointed elements), the modular units are heavier than the full face ones. They have special ventilation openings for comfortable riding (even when the visor is completely closed). In addition, the helmet can be equipped with a Pinlock function that prevents weeping. The material of the inner upholstery is easily removable, which helps maintain proper hygiene. If you take care of yourself and want to be sure in safeness, get acquainted with the following models and their pros and cons.
Modular Motorcycle Helmet Reviews
Shoei Solid Neotec 2 Modular Motorcycle Helmet
The Shoei modular helmet is equipped with integrated QSV-1 sunglasses, which do not distort the image and protect against ultraviolet rays. Convenient additional visor lever placement on the helmet body makes it easy to open and close sunglasses even with thick gloves. The unit can be completed with a Sena SRL communications system, there are recesses for headphones and a microphone in the inner shell of the helmet. The special spoiler reduces air resistance and penetration of aerodynamic noise. I like the ability to install an additional headset control panel in order to obviate the necessity to remove hands from the steering wheel while riding. The removable lining is a foam polyurethane backing coated with a soft, pleasant to the touch material that can be easily shifted for washing. This Japanese product isn’t probably the best modular motorcycle helmet, but the manufacturer supplemented the unit with the adverted protective elements and used solid materials. That’s why the product can be perceived as contentedly quoteworthy.
Pros
- It is equipped with a special ventilation system that optimizes the performance of perflation openings for air access and exhaust.
- The snap fastener is made entirely of stainless steel.
- The anti-fog coating is applied to the sun visor.
Cons
- Fog shield is covered with some small but visible cracks.
- Its weight is rather high (5 pounds).
HJC 980-564 IS-MAX II Modular Motorcycle Helmet
There’s a possibility to extend or retract a visor with one touch of a finger, without removing gloves, the glass of which is additionally protected from insolation (from the outside). The design is modern and the head feels okay in the helmet, but there’s a little bit tight ear space in it. The HJC modular helmet has a comfortable lining and inserts, which do not hold unpleasant odors. Sometimes, the bottom part of a modular slightly blocks the possibility to see the instrumentation on the bike. The Scala Rider Packtalk headset with stock speakers is installed in the helmet. This makes the sound quite decent, except that at high speed the automatic volume increasing is not always enough and you have to add it manually.
Pros
- There’s an effective visor heating with special elements located between the outer and inner glass.
- It was designed in such a way that people with glasses can easily use it without discomfort feelings.
- A system of channel ventilation prevents condensation on the inner surfaces of the helmet.
Cons
- The element that covered the nose and mouth has small velcro, so it’s easy to lose it.
- It’s hard to buckle the Double D Fasteners with thick gloves.
KLIM TK1200 Helmet ECE/DOT 2X Gloss Silver
The model is strong enough, it greatly protects against impact and penetration and it is resistant to chemical attack, but it absorbs the striking energy not enough. Pay attention that this carbon helmet is lighter and stronger than standard polycarbonate or ABS plastic helmets. If you ride at low speed, then the KLIM TK1200 will be enough to protect your head in a case of an accident. The lining is comfortable, the aerodynamics is decent, and the helmet doesn’t let in any distractive sounds (noise from the street, sound of the engines, and whistle while fas driving). This unit shows a tendency to lean more toward the integral category, while the flip-up reclining chin is designed primarily for short stops at traffic lights and breaks between rides. The shield opening point is located in the comfortable distance from the hand, so the rider can easily open it.
Pros
- It doesn’t put pressure on ears when putting on and wearing.
- The helmet is totally stable even at high speeds.
- There’s no turbulence and wind noise inside due to the winter chin guard on.
Cons
- There’s no electric visor but only a transition lens that may be uncomfortable for some users.
- If you want to take the shield off, you have to make a tricky procedure. It isn’t easy and requires some physical efforts.
ScorpionExo EXO-GT920 Full Face Modular Helmet
The protective element is equipped with the Max Vision Pinlock visor with anti-fog coating and UV protection (UV400). In addition, the new angular design creates an aggressive profile when compared with other manufacturer’s modular helmets. This polycarbonate unit is characterized by high impact strength under a strong crash pulse. The unit comes with cutouts for speakers, so the user can easily place them in specified places and enjoy the usage. The EXO-GT920 comes with a chin curtain, which performs its task and is covered with a protective layer. This unit can be probably called the lightest modular motorcycle helmet, as it weighs only 2 pounds. This model does not press and does not cause a headache in a case of the proper size selection.
Pros
- The metal-to-metal latch on the chin bar is much more reliable than the plastic one (on other models).
- The ScorpionExo is able to cope with even deep freeze and high temperature (due to the material and design).
- The liner is antibacterial; it easily comes out and can be washed.
Cons
- It’s not soundproof, so it’s better to wear additional earplugs while riding.
- The helmet runs small, so it’s better to check the special size table before placing an order.
Nolan N100-5 Motorcycle Helmet
The Nolan modular helmet is made of a Lexan material, which belongs to the number of viscous materials. Therefore, even after a powerful blow, it does not break into chatter but can be covered with cracks, protecting the head. In addition, it resists deformation and also retains its original qualities even at extremely high and low temperatures. It looks the same as it feels on the head – smoothly, due to free lines and a uniform surface. The inner layer is made of lightweight, impact-resistant foam polystyrene. The fact is that it has a comfortable fit with decent aerodynamics.
Clima Comfort lining is fully removable, washable, and has antibacterial properties; it does not cause allergies and dries quickly. Maximum visibility at any time of the day is guaranteed by a tinted visor that is resistant to scratches, mechanical damage, and ultraviolet radiation. The built-in sun visor reliably protects from sun glare. Optimum ventilation is provided by an innovative system with AirBooster technology, which consists of two large air intakes and two air ducts. The chin guard is equipped with an exclusive Dual Action opening system that allows you to open it with one hand.
Pros
- The helmet is supplemented with an adjustable VPS visor glasses and an automatic closing system (they are useful for the sun protection).
- There’s a pad to shield the chin from the wind.
- Pinlock (anti-fog protection) is also installed on the visor.
Cons
- I think that the Nolan product isn’t good enough because the paint on a bright helmet moves away from the base.
- It weighs 5.95 pounds and this criterion can cause discomfort during prolonged wear.
Bell SRT Modular Street Motorcycle Helmet
Pay attention that the ventilation holes located in the chin area, above and on the sides, provide good cooling. Also, sunscreen is included in the helmet’s internal structure, which can be lowered if necessary (using the slider). Wind protection works normally even at speeds up to 40 mi/h. If you wear corrective glasses, you can not worry about the lack of space in the helmet Bell SRT. The ProTint Photochromic shield can be installed on the helmet (for an additional fee), which is great for riding at dusk and on a sunny day. The visor becomes dark from completely transparent in 60 seconds. It’s possible to replace it with the click of one button. Although it must be admitted that in a full-faced helmet has better noise insulation (wind noise is much less heard) in some cases. The lower part of the helmet is pushed forward slightly more than other modular helmets, which provides a good security level. It’s hard to call the Bell SRT the best modular helmet, but it is made of solid material, contains most of the required features and weighs only 3.3 pounds.
Pros
- The inner linings are soft and comfortable.
- There are pockets for speakers inside.
- Fog coating works at temperatures up to 7 degrees above zero.
Cons
- The helmet has good sound insulation only when the visor is fully closed.
- It doesn’t fit the intermediate oval head (there’s a pressure on the forehead).
HJC Solid Men’s RPHA 90 Modular Street Motorcycle Helmet
The unit’s shell is made of proprietary P.I.M + material, which is a composite of carbon and carbon-glass fibers in a resin that makes it lighter than other models. The unit has a modern ventilation system and it’s possible to regulate the wind flow in one motion without removing the motorcycle gloves. Its visor has anti-fog covering and a new system for mounting and fixing (the ability to establish the element in 0.19 inches from the starting position, this increases the airflow of the visor and the comfort of movement). The visor is dense, has a Pinlock-coating against scratches and fogging, giving a wide viewing angle. Indeed, the HJC RPHA 90 is equipped with Cardo and almost any intercom for a helmet can be installed in it.
Pros
- The lining is made of hypoallergenic materials that absorb the moisture, are pleasant to the touch, and can be easily washed.
- Chin curtain is quite short, which allows you not to rub your face when raising and lowering it.
Cons
- Soundproof isn’t enough, so it might be hard to ride without earplugs.
- The lever for visor rising is inconveniently located directly above the ventilation of the jaw, and it is difficult to find it with the gloves on.
Buyer’s Guide
Things You Should Know About Modular Helmets
What is a modular helmet (flip-up)? It is structurally similar to a full face helmet, but, in contrast to it, in addition to a rising sun visor, it has a fully reclining front part. This part makes it possible not to remove it entirely and chat or drink some water during quick stops on a road trip (special design of the chin, which is movable due to the hinge joint). Such a chin curtain in a helmet makes life easier for a motorcyclist – he/she can drink water, smoke, or talk to others without taking off the helmet. A special button/lever performs the opening function and is protected from accidental pressing. This product is popular among motorcycle travelers for this reason. The level of protection is comparable to the full face one, but the weight of the modular helmet is larger (due to the complicated design). The motorcycle cruiser helmets also have good soundproofing features (compared to full face helmets), the possibility of tilting up the protective glass and chin, and the ability to mount headset.
The Right Modular Helmet Choosing: Aspects to Consider
The specified equipment element has to be picked up according to the type of motorcycle you are going to use taking into consideration helmet features. For example, the weight of the helmet, the material from which it is made, functionality, and convenience. You should pay special attention to:
- Safety. It’s better to choose the riding style and don’t use the helmet in a flip-up state because the hinge can become a weak point for the bikers. It can be broken in an accident. The hamlet should be made of solid material that is able to cope with a serious strike. Don’t forget to latch the equipment completely, otherwise, a crash will have sad consequences.
- Comfort. The helmet should fit well to the head. You’ll feel yourself more comfortable if you opt for the oversized element, but in such a case the level of security drops at times and your head will not be fully protected. A properly selected helmet should move with the head and fits over the entire surface, including the cheeks.
- Style. Most helmets that bikers choose are black, but maybe it’s better to purchase a brighter color. If you ride a dark motorcycle, in dark overalls and a dark helmet on your head, you may endanger yourself. While overtaking cars or squeezing between them in traffic jams, you may not be noticed by other riders.
Are Modular Motorcycle Helmets Safe Enough?
Each popular modular helmet review shows that quality models have robust safety level and are supplemented with:
- Shells, made of a combination of plastic and fiberglass composite or carbon (it depends on a model and manufacturer choice). Specified materials are resistant to shock and temperature ratios.
- Stroke absorbing layer that has a highly porous structure and assimilates the hit energy.
- Soft interior. This part provides tactile comfort when wearing a helmet. Antibacterial impregnations or special materials are usually used for interior creating, unique threads of which destroy bacteria, which ensures freshness and a pleasant smell inside the helmet. There is another new material – HydraDry, which removes moisture from the inside of the equipment item.
- Breath reflector or a nasal carrier, which is necessary in order to divert exhaled air to the lower part of the helmet, thereby preventing glass fogging.
- Chin protector that defenses against turbulence when riding at high speeds (from 93 mi/h and above). It also protects the face of the biker from wasps, bumblebees, and other insects.
So yes, the modular helmets are safe enough to use them while riding.
My name is Brandon, and I’ve been interested in cars since I was a kid. I got a bachelor’s degree in Automotive Technology and worked in a private car workshop. I have two cars that have been completely upgraded with my own hands. So I successfully put all my knowledge into practice.
Last update on 2023-02-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API