What are the Lightest Motorcycle Helmets
Having a lightweight helmet makes a massive difference if you’re commuting over long distances. The weight of the helmet is a massive contributing factor to neck muscle fatigue, which is why having a light helmet makes all the difference over time. Here are our top choices:
Bell Qualifier
Weighing at 1527 grams, Bell Qualifier is an affordable full-face helmet favored among motorcycle riders looking for a safe and affordable helmet. Its relatively low cost is reflected in its lack of high-end features, but besides that, Bell hasn’t skimped on any safety and security. We’re discussing a DOT DOT-approved helmet with an aerodynamic PC outer shell, plenty of inside cushioning, and a D-ring fastening strap.
The Qualifier is often referred to as the no-frills helmet without any high-end features, but that’s not entirely true either. The standard equipment on this helmet includes integrated speaker pockets, contoured inner padding, a washable antimicrobial lining, adjustable ventilation, tool-free shield shifting with ClickRelease, and an anti-fog visor—all complemented by a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty.
With everything said, it’s good to keep in mind that this is a beginner’s helmet. If you expect to undertake some complex maneuvers while riding more aggressively, we recommend that you get more suitable head protection. The Bell Qualifier becomes noisy at high speeds, and the visor mechanics aren’t really that well-made, and it has a tendency to lift sometimes.
However, it's a fantastic price for a cheap and modest helmet that you can wear around town. If you're interested in buying this helmet, you can check it out on RevZilla.
Pros
- Affordable
- A good amount of comfort
- Beginner-friendly
Cons
- Noisy at high speeds
Shoei RF-1400
The second item on our list, the Shoei RF-1400, weighs only 1679 grams, and it’s the embodiment of the brand reputation and recognition for offering cutting-edge aerodynamics—a hallmark of Shoei helmets. The RF-1400, which Shoei tested in its famed wind tunnels, offers a six-percent lift reduction and a four-percent drag reduction over its predecessor, the RF-1200.
The carefully positioned Vortex Generators on the RF-1400's face shield sides lessen wind impact and turbulence and produce a waterproof and windproof seal while simultaneously letting in important, illuminating road sounds. The RF-1400 can take in a lot of air through its forehead vent, which is placed in the center for the best cooling. Its larger exhaust port vent uses the vacuum created by negative pressure to pull hot air out of the helmet.
The helmet is equipped with an Emergency Quick Release System that aids removal of the headgear from the rider if necessary, and the Dual-Layer Multi-Density Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) washable liner and Multi-Ply Matrix Aim+ shell offer vital protection in an emergency. This fantastic helmet can be found at RevZilla, and while some may find it pricey, the value you get for its asking price is astronomical.
Pros
- Tested
- SNELL-approved
- Lightweight
Cons
- Pricey
Nexx X.WST2
A number of helmets designed for today's market are specifically made for sports riders, vintage, neo-retro, ADV riders, or something along those lines. With the X Wild Street Touring 2, often known as the X.WST2, Nexx sought to address the long-standing lack of attention paid to sport touring riders—offering plenty of safety at a reduced weight.
We’re discussing a mid-range helmet made of interwoven carbon fiber, aramid, organic 3D fibers, fiberglass, and other materials. Despite appearing to have sharp angles, the shell has been designed to keep your head as steady in the airflow as possible while you ride, preventing lift or dip on the helmet.
The detachable padding and lining systems are completely detachable from the helmet, which helps to aid it out. A drop-down sun visor is located behind the primary visor, due to the fact that the helmet is specifically designed for sports touring. Of course, the helmet is DOT certified. If you're looking for a great helmet, you've found it — purchase it at RevZilla.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Fantastic aesthetics
- Bluetooth ready
Cons
- Issues with sizing
Klim Krios Helmet
Dual-sport helmets are versatile and can be used for recreational and competitive riding, attracting riders of all skill levels. Klim Krios' helmet has few drawbacks compared to most others on this list, and the price is one of them. Luckily, the weight isn’t — it weighs only 1.3kg or 3 lbs.
Klim Krios carbon fiber helmet is lightweight and durable due to its carbon fiber construction, which comes in two shells and four sizes, meaning that it fits most skull shapes and it's really comfortable for most riders. Despite its rugged exterior, the helmet's velvety liner conforms closely to the skin while retaining some elasticity, increasing comfort.
Since one of the largest face shields doesn't block peripheral vision, you can see the road and trail clearly. Its transparent and tinted cover makes it suitable for most weather conditions. The Klim Krios' breathability compensates for its noise, and it will keep your face cool in extreme heat. Besides a few drawbacks, this is a great helmet. If the budget doesn't matter, you can find it at RevZilla and CycleGear.
Pros
- Carbon shell.
- Comfortable lining
Cons
- Pricey
AGV K6
AGV really outdid themselves with the K6 design, which results in an ideal sport touring helmet that’s both safe and lightweight. AGV already has an established reputation for producing safe helmets, but the K6 takes it a step further with a 5-density EPS liner and a carbon and aramid fiber shell — resulting in an impressive 5-star SHARP rating for a helmet that weighs only 1220 grams.
Of course, the relatively low weight doesn’t come without any trade-offs, and the most notable trade-off is the lack of a built-in sun visor. However, we’re discussing an otherwise comfortable, gorgeous helmet whose soft-liner materials provide a wonderful fit for most wearers, partially thanks to its low weight.
What’s surprising is the level of sound integrations within this helmet. AGV offers deep holes that make it straightforward to integrate a communications system. The K6 is AGV's top-of-the-line street helmet, and at just under $500, it provides incredible value. It also meets DOT and E.C.E. standards. If you're interested in purchasing this model, you can find it at RevZilla.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Meets all the safety criteria
- Lightweight
Cons
- No built-in visor
- Pricey
Scorpion EXO-R1
The EXO-R1 Air helmet, a street-legal adaptation of Scorpion USA's EXO-R1 GP MotoGP and WorldSBK competition helmets, was introduced back in 2020. The reviews for these full face helmets were excellent, and unless you were being exceedingly picky, very little, if anything, was discovered to be wrong with them.
The EXO-R1 Air Carbon adopts the same design as the original EXO-R1 but uses a complete 3K carbon fiber weave instead of fiberglass and aramid. Since it is made of the same type of carbon fiber that is used to manufacture aircraft, it is both incredibly strong and flexible enough to disperse some impact force on its own.
In addition to having one of the biggest visors available on the market right now, the helmet also has an extremely quiet shell form that literally cuts the air rather than smashing into it. The AirFit inflatable cheek pad system guarantees you a snug yet comfortable fit on every ride, and the ventilation system, while straightforward, is incredibly effective.
Scorpion EXO-R1 weighs approximately 1.3kg, and if you're interested in buying this helmet, please check it out at RevZilla.
Pros
- Lightweight but extremely strong
- Minimum noise
- Allows for a custom-like fit
Cons
- Distinctively intermedia oval
Shoei GT-Air 2
The 1500 gram (approximation) GT-Air 2, the most recent member of the well-known GT-Air series, does everything its predecessor did, but way better and with a better style. The GT-Air 2 has an orthodox design and a compact structure finished in a fine-edged shell, with fully integrated, hassle-free electronic communications slots that let you stay in touch with loved ones while you're riding.
The outstanding QSV-2 sun visor on the Shoei GT-Air 2 helmet is one of its most wonderful features. It is covered in anti-fogging material and made to accommodate sunglass frames that meet European standards. The QSV-2 visor is also incredibly easy to slide up or down by simply manipulating its lever.
In addition to being uncomfortable to wear, flimsy helmets have a history of causing accidents. A micro ratchet chin strap closure system is a feature of the Shoei GT-Air 2 to lessen the likelihood of this happening. The distinctive micro ratchet strap is strong and stable to secure even when wearing thick gloves because it is made from premium quality stainless steel components.
Pros
- Great ventilation
- Elastic fibers for lightweight
- Pretty silent
Cons
- Pricey
Shark Spartan 1.2 Carbon Helmet
The Shark Spartan is an established brand tasked with providing premium goods to its devotees. Likewise, the Shark Spartan 1.2 is one of the most avant-garde pieces of headwear in 2022. With a pin-lock visor that provides maximum visual and an anti-fog feature, you can navigate on the road even in high humidity without being concerned about blurry vision.
Furthermore, the drop-down visor decreases UV rays from directly hitting your eyes, and the snug fit of a double-d retention system eliminates the need to adjust your helmet every couple of minutes. Third, the 1.2 Shark Spartan's ventilation is quite admirable. Despite the absence of an exhaust port vent, the helmet uses an individual vent located on the chin and crown to keep your face cool and provide adequate ventilation.
If you have delicate skin that is easily irritated by bacteria and sweat, we must mention the inner layer of this helmet. The Shark Spartan 1.2 has a soft and breathable lining fabric, which makes the headgear easy to put on and easy to clean off any bacteria or fungi. Finally, the Shark Spartan 1.2 is a very appealing helmet due to its sporty appearance and wide range of sizes.
Pros
- Lightweight construction
- DOT-approved
- UV visor with anti-fog system
Cons
- Noisy
- Pricey
What to Look for in a Hemet Home
It is critical to purchase a DOT-approved motorcycle helmet because safety is its top priority. In addition to qualifications, getting a helmet that fits your head properly is critical. Think about visibility and comfort as well. Here are some things to look for when purchasing a helmet:
Visibility
Visibility is critical when wearing a motorcycle helmet. A sun visor should not fog, whether due to an anti-fog visor or insufficient ventilation. Some helmet designs may forego protection in order to improve visibility. A half helmet, for example, shields only the top half of the rider's head but provides far greater visibility than a full-face or dual sport helmet. Determine the visibility requirements for a new helmet before purchasing one.
Fit and comfort
Your bike helmet should fit snugly on your head when riding because an inadequate or loose helmet offers insufficient protection. Many motorcycle helmets have removable or movable padding to help ensure a perfect fit. Another headgear is designed to fit specific head shapes, such as ovals rather than rounds. Before going on a ride, make sure your helmet fits snugly on your head.
A good helmet should also provide the best climate management possible to prevent overheating or overcooling, which could cause you to lose focus while riding. However, adequate ventilation and moisture-wicking will help keep your head dry. Most motorcycle riders can wear a 5-pound helmet or a lighter one, but anything more substantial may injure your neck, so make sure that the helmet is comfortable to wear.
Helmets and Head Shapes
Lightweight helmets come in a variety of styles and sizes because everyone's head is different. The most common shape types are round oval, intermediate oval, and long oval. The majority of people have heads that are round and oval in shape, with the intermediate oval being the most common.
To accurately measure your head, use cotton tape. Start measuring around the thickest part of your head at the back, just above your brows. After you've sized your own head, simply compare it to the manufacturer's sizing chart. Because it can be difficult to complete on your own, we recommend enlisting the assistance of a friend to accurately measure the size of your head. We'd also like to mention, just for good measure, that you should measure your head form rather than your facial shape.
