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A helmet is the most important piece of protective get when riding a motorcycle. Finding the right one can be complicated. Not only do you have to figure out the style that best suits you, but you also have to find one that fits your budget.
If you’re looking for a helmet under $300, you’re in the right place.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Best Motorcycle Helmets Under $300
- OUR TOP PICK: AGV K1 Helmet
- RUNNER-UP: Biltwell Lane Splitter Helmet
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS
Comparison of the Best Motorcycle Helmets Under $300
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Can You Find a Quality Motorcycle Helmet Under $300?
Yes! There are many quality helmets for under $300 if you know where to look. People think that cheap helmets don't offer the same protection as expensive models. But they do.
The biggest difference between inexpensive and high-end helmets is the extras. An expensive helmet may have Bluetooth or have a special lining that wicks away moisture. These things are nice, but they aren’t necessary for protection. If you have less than $300 to spend, there is no reason you can’t find a quality helmet to protect you while riding.
Why Did These Motorcycle Helmets Make Our List?
There are a few things to consider when looking for a high-quality helmet for under $300. They are:
Outer Shell and Safety Rating
The outer shell is one of the most important factors for helmet safety. This is the part of the helmet that will hit the ground in an accident. It needs to be tough enough to protect your head. There are a lot of materials suitable for providing this protection. To make sure your helmet meets safety standards, make sure it’s DOT, ECE, or Snell rated.
Inner Layer and Lining
The inner foam layer and lining work together. They keep your head comfortable and ensure a good fit. In an accident, the foam layer absorbs the force from the impact. This prevents or lessens an injury to the skull or brain. Look for adjustable padding and multi-density foam for the best fit and protection.
Face Protection
If you want to be as safe as possible, look for a helmet with face protection. Open-face helmets are popular and have their place. But a full-face helmet is the safety standard. There are plenty available at this price point.
Review of the Best Motorcycle Helmets Under $300
You don’t have to go broke when looking for a high-quality motorcycle helmet. Here are a few of the best helmets available for under $300.
Best Overall:
AGV K1 Helmet Specs
PROS
CONS
Type of Helmet: Street riding, Sport riding
Materials Used: High-resistance thermoplastic resin outer shell
Brand: AGV
Type: Full face
Certifications: DOT
Clasp type: Double D-ring
Weight: 3.64 lbs
What Types of Activities is the AGV K1 Helmet Best For?
The AGV K1 has a sporty styling ideal for street or track riding. The inner 3D liner and cheek pads keep you dry and are easy to clean. Factor in the UV protection from the face shield and long rides on hot summer days are no problem.
Safety Features of AGV K1 Helmet
- The contoured shape is safer for collarbones. It reduces the pressure and lowers the risk of fractures during a crash.
- The panoramic anti-fog visor provides a 190-degree view. It’s also scratch-resistant to ensure a clear look at the road ahead.
What Are the Components of the AGV K1 Helmet?
- Ventilation system. There are three vents on the forehead, two on the chin, and two rear extractors to encourage cooling airflow.
- Chin pads and 3D liner. Each is made using a dry-comfort material that stays dry and stabilizes the head while riding.
- Customizable visor. The visor has a Micro Mech opening mechanism. It's compact and safe, with four different opening steps for safety.
Runner-up:
Biltwell Lane Splitter Helmet Specs
PROS
CONS
Type of Helmet: Street, Cruising, Touring
Materials Used: Injection-molded ABS outer shell
Brand: Biltwell
Type: Full-Face
Certifications: DOT, ECE
Clasp type: D-rings
Weight: 3.45 lbs
What Types of Activities is the Biltwell Lane Splitter Helmet Best For?
The Biltwell Lane Splitter is a good pick for street riding. Whether you’re commuting to work or taking a weekend joyride, this helmet keeps you cool and comfortable. Add an aftermarket communication system to keep in touch with your fellow riders and it's a good choice for cruising, too.
Safety Features of Biltwell Lane Splitter Helmet
- The ABS outer shell and shock-absorbing EPS liner provide DOT-approved head protection.
- You can add an aftermarket Bluetooth device for easy communication. This is particularly useful in an emergency.
- The polycarbonate shield provides an open and unobstructed view of the road.
What Are the Components of the Biltwell Lane Splitter Helmet?
- Padding and lining. This helmet has a hand-sewn interior brushed Lycra liner. The diamond-stitched quilted foam padding adds extra comfort.
- Ventilation. Chin vents bring in cool air, and the rear outlets allow the hot air to escape, keeping you cool in hot weather.
- Easy-open shield. The clear shield is easy to open and secure closed. Plus, it’s designed for quick tool-free removal for cleaning or to swap out an aftermarket shield.
Best for the Money:
Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS Specs
PROS
CONS
Type of Helmet: Adventure, Touring, Dual Sport
Materials Used: Polycarbonate outer shell
Brand: Bell
Type: Full face
Certifications: DOT, ECE
Clasp type: D-ring closure and strap keeper
Weight: 3.74 lbs
What Types of Activities is the Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS Best For?
This is an adventure helmet, but it’s impressive in its versatility. The MX-9 is a good choice for trail riding. But, you can use it for commuting or street riding, too. That’s not all, if you add an aftermarket communication system, it’s ideal for cruising, too.
Safety Features of Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS
- The multi-directional impact protection system provides dramatically improved rotational energy displacement. This protects your head from being jerked around too much on impact.
- An EPS-lined chin bar provides extra protection for your face.
What Are the Components of the Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS?
- Liner. The linear features air channels to help with ventilation. It’s also moisture-wicking, keeping you dry and cool. And, you can remove and wash the liner to keep the helmet looking and smelling fresh.
- Ventilation. The ventilation system includes a mouth vent to improve cooling.
- Face shield. An integrated face shield flips up when you need to wear goggles for adventure riding.
Best Modular Motorcycle Helmet Under $300:
Scorpion EXO-AT950 Specs
PROS
CONS
Type of Helmet: Dual Sport, Touring, Street, Trail Riding, Off-Roading
Materials Used: LG Polycarbonate shell
Brand: Scorpion
Type: Modular
Certifications: Dot
Clasp type: D-ring
Weight: 3.77 lbs.
What Types of Activities is the Scorpion EXO-AT950 Best For?
This helmet is suitable for all types of riding, which makes it a good choice for people with more than one bike. The shell is strong and effectively absorbs and distributes impact. Plus, the antimicrobial liner and ventilation system keeps you comfortable. Even when riding in hot weather.
Safety Features of Scorpion EXO-AT950
- The anti-fog face shield and drop-down internal sun visor provide a clear view.
- The dual-density, multi-layer EPS liner provides advanced protection. It absorbs and distributes the force of impact.
- The large eye port delivers a wide panoramic view. You can flip the visor up to accommodate goggles for adventure riding.
What Are the Components of the Scorpion EXO-AT950?
- Ventilation. Multiple intake valves and exhaust ports encourage airflow throughout the helmet. The dual-position mouth vent functions as both ventilation and a defroster.
- Face shield. The ratchet system pulls the shield in tight and no tools are needed for shield changes. A no-fog, anti-scratch face shield comes with the helmet.
- Liner. The antimicrobial liner pulls away moisture and prevents strong odors. Plus, the cheek pads can accommodate eyeglasses if needed.
Editor's Pick:
BILT Techno 2.0 Specs
PROS
CONS
Type of Helmet: Touring
Materials Used: Polycarbonate outer shell
Brand: BILT
Type: Modular
Certifications: DOT
Clasp type: D-ring
Weight: 4.11 lbs
What Types of Activities is the BILT Techno 2.0 Best For?
This is a great helmet for commuting or cruising. Integrated Bluetooth makes it convenient to communicate with a group of riders. The Tencho 2.0 is ideal if you’re trying to stay in touch with friends while cruising and stay safe.
Safety Features of BILT Techno 2.0
- You can safely communicate with other riders and get GPS directions while on the road.
- The drop-down integrated sunshade protects your eyes against harsh light, so you’re ready for any type of weather.
What Are the Components of the BILT Techno 2.0?
- Ventilation. This helmet features top ventilation and optional chin vents keep you cool in the hot sun.
- Padding. The lining ensures a snug fit and removes for easy washing.
- Integrated sound system. The Sena system is already installed. You don’t have to worry about purchasing anything separately.
Aspects to Consider Before Buying
Choosing a motorcycle is a big decision. Here are some of the things to keep in mind while you shop.
Type of Helmet
If safety is your number one concern, a full-face helmet is best. Modular helmets are a good choice, too. They provide face protection but the chin bar and visor open so you can get fresh air when you need it.
Lining
Lining serves two purposes. It keeps you comfortable, and it helps with fit. Make sure the lining is removable and washable. This is the best way to make sure your helmet stays feeling and smelling fresh.
Communication System
You don’t necessarily need an integrated communication system, but it is a nice thing to have. If you ever ride in a group, it’s the easiest way to keep in touch while on the road.
Use
Even if you’re trying to spend less than $300, make sure you get the best possible helmet you can for your needs. To do so, figure out how you’re going to use the helmet. Are you looking for something all-purpose for both commuting and weekend rides? Or do you want something specifically for adventure riding? Once you have that figured, you’ll have a better idea of what you’re looking for.
Cheap vs Expensive Motorcycle Helmets- Comparison Overview
If you’re wondering if it’s okay to get a cheap helmet, take a look at this comparison between cheap and expensive helmets before you decide.
Protection
Quality helmets at any price point will protect you in an accident. The biggest thing to look for in this regard is the safety rating. If a helmet is DOT-certified, it meets the requirements of the Department of Transportation and is safe for the road.
Lining
One of the differences between cheap and expensive helmets is the lining. They will both do the job of keeping the helmet snugly in place, but expensive helmets are likely to be more comfortable. They use higher-quality materials to make the helmet as comfortable as possible.
Extras
A big difference between an inexpensive helmet and a top-of-the-line one is the amount of time and money spent on research and development. Expensive popular brands have a lot more money to invest in innovation. They are more likely to debut new technology than cheaper brands.
Conclusion
Some people might feel as if they have to spend $500 or more on a motorcycle helmet, even if they can’t afford it. But, there are a lot of quality helmets available for under $300 to take advantage of. You just have to know what to look for.
People Also Ask
People usually have a lot of questions when shopping for a motorcycle helmet, especially if they’re beginners. Here are some of the most common things people wonder about.
How Often Should a Motorcycle Helmet Be Replaced?
The general belief is that a helmet should be replaced every five years, but there are a lot of things that can change this. If you ride regularly and your helmet sees a lot of wear and tear, you might need to replace it earlier.
Is There a Difference Between Men's and Women's Motorcycle Helmets?
Other than color, there are very few differences between men’s and women’s motorcycle helmets. Women’s heads are usually smaller than men’s, so the sizes are likely to reflect that.
What Does MIPS Helmet Mean?
MIPS stands for a multi-directional impact protection system. It is made of two layers that slip against one another. This system was designed to mimic the way the brain moves in the cerebrospinal fluid. In an accident, the outer layer absorbs the impact while the inner layer rotates slightly. This helps limit the effect of impact on the brain.
Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS
Is it Worth Getting a MIPS Helmet?
Anything you can do to protect yourself is worth getting. This is especially true if you do adventure riding or dirt riding.
How Do You Check if Your Helmet is Safe?
First, make sure it’s DOT certified. Then, be sure to inspect your helmet regularly for damage. If you see any cracks or if the lining is no longer intact, you should consider replacing it.
Are Cheaper Helmets Less Safe?
No. Safe helmets are available at any price point. Cheap helmets may be less comfortable than more expensive helmets. Plus, they are likely to be pretty basic as more expensive brands are who are innovating the industry.
