Motorcycles are one of the most widely used sources of transport around the globe. Whether for everyday hustle or fun, it’s a fact that riding is thrilling. However, you can’t say that it’s not dangerous, and the rider is not always at risk regardless of the speed.
There are huge chances of striking your head in case of collision, which can lead to severe injuries and even death. Being the most important lifeguard for riders, a helmet can save you from head injuries.
There are tons of helmet brands out there, so much that you might get overwhelmed to make a decision. Don’t worry, though, because we’ve included a list below that shows the finest helmets you can buy without breaking the bank.
Here are our top 3 choices if you are in hurry or don’t like reading too much.
Best Motorcycle Helmets Under $100 Reviews
1. Scorpion EXO-R420 – Best Budget Helmet
Pros
- Low noise levels
- Pockets for speakers
- Worth the price
Cons
- Not found
This helmet occupies the top spot on our list. Undoubtedly, it is absolutely a bang for the buck.
The Scorpion EXO-R420 is not just budget-friendly, but it also gives you peace of mind with its certifications. Its SNELL and DOT certifications leave no doubt about its robust protection. The stronger LG polycarbonate shell can protect your head from severe injuries in case of an accident. Additionally, its aerodynamic shape gives it a cool appearance.
The EXO-R420 comes with an Ellip-Tec 2 face shield, which ensures 100% UV protection. Moreover, its fog-free technology eliminates the possibility of blurry vision, and the shield rests firmly due to the efficient locking system.
What’s more, the EXO-R420 features an emergency release system for emergencies. Also, it allows you to enjoy your rides in both hot and cold weather without having to worry about germs due to the presence of KwikWick II anti-microbial fabric.
The outstanding ventilation system provides better airflow without producing much noise. Last but not least, the EXO-R420 is glasses friendly, so you can easily close the shield while wearing your glasses.
2. HJC CS-R3 Helmet
Pros
- Lightweight
- Ability to attach a variety of face shields
- Good ventilation system
Cons
- The bigger vents are a little uncomfortable for the winter season.
Looking for a sporty helmet but don’t want to spend a lot of money? The CS-R3 is designed just for you! The HJC has made this futuristic helmet by using modern CAD technology. Due to this, the helmet is super comfy and fits very well.
Being extremely lightweight, the CS-R3 causes no stress on your neck. It comes with an HJ-09 face shield with 95% UV protection along with a highly resilient anti-scratch coating for further convenience. Just insert your multimedia speakers in the pockets and witness the best riding experience of your life.
With the RapidFireTM shield replacement system, you can switch between different shields of your choice without using any tool. Unlike the cheaper helmets, you don’t have to worry about the shield with the 2-stage locking system.
Wearing the CS-R3 will give you a lush feeling of the Nylex interior, and the ACS advanced channeling system is there to circulate the air to keep your head dry thoroughly. Moreover, the padding is washable, so you can keep it germ-free and clean. Lastly, the helmet features interchangeable cheek pads to give you a perfect fit.
3. GMax FF49 Helmet
Pros
- You get amazing features of expensive helmets at a lower price tag.
- It has a larger eye port for better visibility.
- Removable interior with easy washing and cleaning
Cons
- The snaps that hold the padding are not strong enough.
The GMax FF49 is an all-in-one package of quality, comfort, and amazing design. It is a combination of all the expensive headgears’ features in the market at one low price.
You can have peace of mind with this helmet because it is made up of a poly-alloy shell which makes it lightweight and DOT approved for strength and quality. The shell consists of a washable CoolMax interior provided by a DuPont that is extremely comfortable and smooth.
The FF49 is equipped with an efficient ventilation system that involves forehead and rear vents for intake and air exhaust to keep your head fresh and cool. With this helmet, you will get an anti-scratch UV400 Faceshield with 100% UV protection. Also, the larger eye port gives you a wider vision.
The breath guard of the GMax FF49 helps keep the air fresh and lets you enjoy longer rides without bad breath. And the chin curtain is there to avoid unnecessary air coming inside the helmet to reduce noise.
4. HJC CL-Y Youth Helmet
Pros
- DOT-approved helmet for ultimate safety
- Dual Density EPS liner
- Extremely lightweight at 2.95 lbs
Cons
- Lacks dedicated space for Bluetooth speakers.
This helmet is not just any headgear to protect you from injuries. It is actually a perfect blend of strength, innovation, and comfort, having an affordable price. The HJC CL-Y shell is made from thermoplastic material, allowing the manufacturer to give it a stylish look. The aerodynamic shape of the helmet is wind-tunnel tested to ensure minimum air resistance. Moreover, its durability can be proven by its DOT certification.
The anti-fog system of the CL-Y adds up to excellent visibility with a larger eye port for clearer vision. What’s more, the helmet is glasses friendly since the eye-port has enough space for spectacles.
Featuring an HJ-05 face shield with a 4-position positive-lock ratchet system, the CL-Y provides 100% UV protection. Also, the face shield rests firmly at its place with an effective two-stage pivot system.
For maximum comfort, you get a Nylex interior and a wrap around the neck to reduce the helmet’s amount of noise.
The CL-Y features a great ventilation system. It includes front and sideways vortex vents for easy entrance of air and two vents at the rear for effective air exhaust. In addition to these, you also get chin vents that are crucial to avoid the face shield’s fogging.
5. Scorpion EXO-R320 Helmet
Pros
- KwikWick II anti-microbial system
- Ellis-TM ratched system
- KwikFit cheek pads for comfortable wearing
Cons
- High ventilation results in more noise sometimes.
Scorpion is very famous for making good quality helmets with experience of more than one and a half-century. The EXO-R320 is a full-face helmet made out of an LG polycarbonate shell along with the dual-density EPS liner foam to give ultimate protection to your head in case of a collision. Also, this is certified by DOT to ensure maximum safety.
The face shield comes with a pin lock for firm locking of the shield and stopping incoming air at the same time. With the Ellis-TecTM ratchet system, you can change the shields in just a matter of minutes.
The interior is spacious and fits perfectly with the eyeglasses. It does have pockets for speakers, so you can enjoy it while riding. You will get a KwikWick II anti-microbial comfort liner on a very low budget that helps prevent the buildup of germs inside and protects you from diseases. The KwikFit cheek pads come with a pre-cut channel to allow the helmet’s easy wearing while wearing eyeglasses.
The aero-tuned ventilation system keeps you fresh, and your head cools during your rides. The multiple vents in the shell raise the comfort level of the helmet to a new level.
6. BILT Raptor Shadow Helmet
Pros
- Great price and lightweight at only 3.52 lbs.
- Switch-operated drop-down sun visor for quick operation.
- The internal lining is easily removable and washable.
Cons
- It can be a little noisy at higher speeds.
- No speaker pockets
The BILT Raptor Shadow Helmet is a goldmine for those looking for a budget sport touring helmet. It is an awesome aerodynamic helmet with a revolutionary design that catches the eye due to its matte finish and beautiful color. The outer shell of the helmet is made up of high-tech polycarbonate material and meets the DOT requirement. Therefore, buying this helmet is going to be a wise investment.
The face shield has a quick-release system for easy changeability. For the shield’s maximum strength and powerful grip, the Raptor Shadow uses a double D-ring safety fastening system. Additionally, it has a separate drop-down sun visor, which is tinted to provide you the best vision in daylight. Just use the switch to open or shut the visor whenever you need it.
Don’t worry about dirt accumulating inside the helmet, as the BILT Raptor Shadow has a removable pad lining. This makes it easy to clean whenever you want. You will always feel fresh during your rides because the air vents allow the air to circulate thoroughly through the helmet and keep your head cool.
7. BILT Force Helmet
Pros
- Pin-lock visor to prevent fogging on colder days
- Tinted Sun Visor
- Powerful shell
Cons
- Quality is not top notch
The BILT Force helmet is one of the very few models under $100 that comes with an expensive helmet’s amazing features. For a high-quality helmet, it is way too budget-friendly. Also, with a weight of only 3.57 lbs, it is extremely lightweight.
The BILT Force helmet has a shell made up of high-tech injection molded polycarbonate material, which is highly resistant against impacts. This is supported by the fact that it is DOT and ECE approved.
The Force helmet’s overall appearance is quite futuristic, and the shell is covered by high-quality paint that exhibits a metallic finish. Also, the shell contains multiple air vents to maintain sufficient airflow throughout the interior to maintain the inside temperature of the helmet and keep the rider comfortable.
The front face shield is made up of high-quality materials and fits tightly due to the double D-ring safety fastening facility. The face shield can be quickly released to attach another one with ease.
You will see an extra lever on the Force helmet. It is meant to operate the internal tinted sun shield. This shows how intricately BILT has designed this helmet. The interior of the helmet is lined with highly comfortable padding, which ensures optimum airflow. Not only that, but it is also removable so that you don’t have to worry about maintaining it.
8. Bell Qualifier Helmet
Pros
- 5-year warranty
- NutraFog II for ultimate fog control
- DOT approved
Cons
- Not Snell or ECE rated
Need a dashing and jaunty helmet? The Bell Qualifier Integrity is what you’re looking for, and it’s highly affordable. The polycarbonate shell of the helmet is highly reliable and incredibly lightweight. Its aerodynamic design provides exceptional stability and comfort to the user.
Having no-frills, the overall weight of the Qualifier Integrity is only 3.28 lbs. Moreover, it comes in three shell sizes so that you can find your best fit easily. The helmet is DOT-approved and comes with an amazing five-year warranty.
The face shield of this Bell masterpiece can be released easily. With its click release system, you can easily change the shield without the help of any tools. This anti-scratch and UV-protected shield is further equipped with NutraFog II anti-fog technology, a rarity in low-budget helmets.
Furthermore, the Qualifier Integrity has a well-designed ventilation system to ensure optimal air passage through the helmet to keep you comfortable. Keeping this helmet clean is not an issue because it has an antibacterial, washable, and removable interior. The internal padding is comfy and has inclusive pockets for external speakers.
The cheek pads have a contoured design that offers the perfect fit and best comfort. Even the padded chin strap is soft and comfortable. With the D-ring closure, you can easily adjust the chin straps with minimum stress.
9. LS2 Rapid Helmet
Pros
- High-quality interior
- ECE and DOT rated
- Multi-density EPS padding
- Breath deflector
Cons
- Lens fog up on low-speed riding due to airflow, which can be solved by purchasing a separate pin lock
- No room for an audio BT
If you’re done with getting hot and sweaty while wearing a helmet, we have just the right thing for you. The LS2 Rapid helmet keeps you dry, cool, and safe for under $100.
The helmet keeps moisture and heats away from you because its interior padding is made up of laser-cut 3D foam, which guarantees no hot spots. In addition, the padding is hypoallergenic and highly breathable due to the incredible neck roll design, which allows good ventilation and prevents it from getting noisy.
The manufacturer has given special attention to the helmet’s padding by equipping it with multi-density EPS padding and a breath deflector. You can easily remove and wash the padding and maintain your hygiene.
The shell of the LS2 Rapid is constructed from high-pressure thermoplastic technology. Since it comes in three different sizes, you can easily find the best fit. This DOT-approved helmet has air vents that are fully adjustable to maintain optimal airflow around your head.
With the Rapid, you get a high-quality scratch-resistant face shield with UV protection. A quick-release chin strap is there to keep the helmet in place at high speeds.
10. Sedici Strada Helmet
Pros
- Strong shell and shield
- Beautiful design and amazing quality at a very low price
- Inner visor for the sun
Cons
- Low quality plastic clips, especially the ones with the visors
The Sedici Strada is the all-around workhorse of this list. You can take this versatile helmet with you anywhere you want, such as on a track and the street, for everyday use. It’s an everyday use helmet and is suited to all environments.
Toughness and lightweight are their major attributes. This is due to its fiberglass-reinforced shell and DuPont Kevlar. Also, the helmet is available in matte finish and gloss finish, so you can buy the style you love. The multiple vents mounted on the surface play a vital role in air circulation through the rider’s head.
Further, the front face shield is also made up of polycarbonate material, and its anti-scratch rating takes your worries away from you. An inner sun shield visor is also available if the sunlight is bothering you.
The 5mm thick interior padding is amazing as it features an antibacterial liner to keep you safe even after months of use. The interior padding is removable so that you can wash it without any hassle. On top of all these impressive features, the Sedici Strada meets both the DOT and ECE-22.05 standards. This makes the helmet instantly trustworthy.
Best Motorcycle Helmet Under $100 – Buying Guide
When you buy a motorcycle, you don’t just buy the vehicle. This transaction forces you to buy some much-needed accessories and gear, and the most important one of them is a helmet. Since it’s important for a rider’s protection, you must buy the best helmet for yourself.
Expensive helmets are more likely to have the most desirable features, but nobody wants to spend too much money. You must keep in mind some factors while buying the best and the most-cost effective helmet for yourself. Here’s a buying guide that explains these factors in detail.
Price
Although price shouldn’t be a deciding factor when it comes to safety gear, we have to talk about it because we’re talking about affordable helmets. As we said, an expensive helmet is more likely to be more safe, comfortable, and attractive.
However, it doesn’t mean that you can’t find cheaper helmets with fantastic features. Thanks to the tough competition in the helmet industry, you can now find some brilliant helmets for under $100. If you know how to identify a good helmet from a bad one, you can easily make the best use of your money.
Best Fit
The best helmet for you is the one that best fits your head. Buying one of the safest helmets that don’t fit you properly is of no use. The best-fitting helmet is neither too loose nor too tight.
To buy such a helmet, you have to measure your size correctly. The best way to do it is to try different helmets on your head so that you can get a better idea of which suits you the best. The helmet’s padding should be soft and comfortable so that you can wear it without being uncomfortable.
The Outer Shell
The strength of the outer shell is the most important indicator of the quality of a helmet. A strong outer shell will protect you from traumatic injuries by reducing the impact on your head. With the advancement in technology, better and better materials are now being introduced to make helmets that have more strength than the older ones.
Kevlar, fiberglass, and composite shells are the strongest out there, which is why they tend to be expensive. On the contrary, thermoplastic shells are inexpensive, but they’re comparatively less strong. However, that does not mean that they can’t protect the user.
Noise
Noise is one of the most important things to consider before making a purchase decision. Always look for helmets with more noise resistance for comfortable rides because the noise of the wind inside the helmet can be extremely irritating and may lead to serious accidents.
Ventilation
When it comes to comfort, ventilation is among the most important factors in a helmet. Good ventilation plays a critical role in the rider’s comfort, especially on hot summer days. It keeps you fresh and keeps the head moisture-free while removing the heat through the exhaust vents. Most of the helmets have vents at the chin. These vents not only allow air towards your head but also protect the face shield from fogging up.
Conclusion
A helmet is a necessary part of a motorcycle and is an essential life-saving guard for a rider. Never jump into buying one without collecting enough information. We know it’s boring and time-consuming to do research, which is why we have done it for you. We’re sure that the best helmet for you is on our diverse list. All you have to do is identify your requirements and choose the right helmet from our list.
