At its core, a helmet must fit well - from padding that's soft and comfy, through no pressure points when shaking your head to avoid pressure points when changing directions.
Consider purchasing a helmet with a removable peak that can be easily adjusted as necessary, and one with a pinlock-compatible visor that's simple to remove and replace.
1. Arai Tour X4
Arai helmets have long been associated with quality, and that remains true even today with their Tour-X 4 adventure helmet model.
Arai Tour X4: Adventure Awaits with Unmatched Protection |
Although last updated in 2012, its qualities remain relevant today.
Its hard outer shell is designed to disperse impact energy over an extensive area, while the soft inner layer composed of three to five layers of EPS foam absorbs any energy that reaches your head.
Furthermore, a double D ring fastener serves as the safest method of retention.
Venting is where the Tour X4 truly excels - there are more vents than one could possibly count, including seven inlet vents at the front and six exhaust vents for a refreshing breeze as you ride along.
Furthermore, there are the signature Arai brow vents which work to prevent fogging while simultaneously keeping cool air flowing directly over your face and keeping visor fogging at bay.
The cheek and temple crown pads feature 5mm peel away layers that enable you to customise the fit of the helmet to your head shape, while Facial Contour System padding press down onto chins for a comfortable and secure fit.
2. AGV Hornet
The AGV Hornet is a premium helmet designed to meet the needs of an ever-increasing segment of riders: those who enjoy mixing tarmac trips and motorway commutes with off road rides.
AGV Hornet: Dominating Trails with Style and Safety |
This helmet does so by offering an understated design as well as top safety features normally reserved for higher end helmets.
Shoei's DOT-approved shell is constructed of carbon-aramid and EPS material and features an interior made of moisture-wicking 3D Max Dry fabric, designed to absorb impact force without crushing into your skull and brain.
They claim it can remove moisture twice as fast than traditional nylon liners!
Ventilation comes from one chin vent and two forehead ports which can be opened or closed with sliders on the inside of the helmet, providing ample airflow and plenty of room for bluetooth headsets like Sena SMH10s or Cardo Packtalk slim units to be fitted without issue.
Owners report positive experiences using their systems.
3. Scorpion ADF-9000 Air
The Scorpion ADF-9000 Air is an adaptable trail bike helmet equipped with all of the features necessary for off road riding.
Stay Cool and Protected with the Innovative Scorpion ADF-9000 Air |
Constructed using Scorpion's proprietary Ultra-TCT technology for maximum strength and light weight, its shell also boasts an Exolon peak visor designed with shatterproof plastic that works to prevent sail effect at high speeds - plus EXO-COM compatibility allows users to equip an internal intercom system if desired.
The helmet's interior features a washable and moisture-wicking Kwikwick III liner that's removable, as well as fully adjustable chin vent that can be opened/closed using a rocker switch, plus front/rear extractors to optimize airflow.
The ADF-9000 Air helmet boasts a clear visor with anti-scratch coating and 100% Max Vision Pinlock insert that repels fogging.
Additionally, the eyeport of this wide helmet provides excellent lateral and vertical visibility; furthermore it includes an easily deployable drop-down sun visor controlled via an onboard button on its side.
4. AGV K6S
The K6 S encapsulates all of AGV's trademark racing-derived ideologies into an easily transportable package for everyday riding.
Unleash Your Ride: The AGV K6S Helmet Combines Style and Safety |
From its visor mechanisms and shell construction, every detail was designed with safety in mind;
from its multiple density EPS padding for protection in an event of impact to four sizes (XS-SM, MS-ML, ML-LG and XL-2XL) designed to cover as many heads while keeping weight low -
down to the shape of its chin bar which helps reduce risks associated with collarbone injuries!
AGV K6 comes with a selection of graphics to meet every taste.
Choose between plain grey, matt black or gloss mono black for your ideal choice - these subtler versions of AGV's traditional hawknose design should appeal to sports tourers who prioritize performance over aesthetics.
As with the Corsa R and Pista GP RR models, AGV chose not to include a drop down sun visor on this model due to weight and comfort concerns.
Instead they implemented an airflow system which effectively manages any potential neck turbulence caused by wind on your neck;
most owners find their top vents open well allowing lots of air through, while their chin vent is small but works effectively too.
5. Arai Procen Air
The Arai Procen Air is a high-end helmet, equipped with features like its new chin bar designed to keep it secure, two additional exhaust ports, and an upgraded eyeport.
Experience Unmatched Comfort and Safety with the Arai Procen Air Helmet! |
Furthermore, Arai peripheral belting placed just above its eyeport absorbs impact energy and protects from projectiles.
Formula 1 racing pioneered this innovative safety feature. When subject to high lateral G forces during turns, the driver can experience three or four times heavier helmet pressure. This energy dispersal could potentially result in serious neck injuries.
Procen Air comes equipped with both Arai VAS shielding system and Pinlock 120 insert to reduce fogging issues, and has impressive CFM ratings thanks to its brow vents.
At Arai factory, I learned that every shell is created by hand using 20 precisely cut pieces that must be assembled accurately into a preheated mold - any misalignments would render the shell unacceptable and be assembled by an in-house Shell Expert.
Here are five FAQs about the best adventure bike helmets of 2024, along with their answers:
1. What features should I look for in an adventure bike helmet?
Answer: When choosing an adventure bike helmet, consider the following features:
- Versatility: Look for a helmet that can handle both on-road and off-road conditions, often featuring a modular design with a removable visor.
- Ventilation: Adequate ventilation is crucial for comfort during long rides, especially in varying weather conditions.
- Weight: A lightweight helmet reduces fatigue, making it easier to ride for extended periods.
- Safety Ratings: Ensure the helmet meets safety standards such as DOT or ECE certification for reliable protection.
- Comfort and Fit: Adjustable padding and a secure fit system are essential for comfort and stability on rough terrain.
2. Are adventure bike helmets suitable for all types of riding?
Answer: Yes, adventure bike helmets are designed to be versatile, making them suitable for a variety of riding styles, including touring, off-road, and commuting. Their hybrid design combines features from both street and off-road helmets, providing the protection and comfort needed for different environments. However, if you primarily ride in one specific condition, you may want to consider a specialized helmet tailored for that use.
3. What is the difference between an adventure bike helmet and a full-face helmet?
Answer: While both adventure bike helmets and full-face helmets provide full head coverage, adventure bike helmets typically feature a more versatile design, including a peak visor for sun and debris protection, and often have a modular structure that allows for better airflow and adaptability to different riding conditions. Full-face helmets, on the other hand, are generally more aerodynamic and provide better protection in high-speed situations but may lack the versatility and ventilation features of adventure helmets.
4. How do I ensure the right fit for an adventure bike helmet?
Answer: To find the right fit for an adventure bike helmet, measure the circumference of your head just above your eyebrows using a flexible measuring tape. Compare this measurement to the manufacturer’s size chart, which typically categorizes sizes as small, medium, large, etc. When trying on the helmet, it should fit snugly without being uncomfortable. Ensure that the helmet doesn't shift when you move your head and that the padding conforms to your head shape.
5. How do I maintain my adventure bike helmet?
Answer: To maintain your adventure bike helmet:
- Regular Cleaning: Use mild soap and water to clean the outer shell and interior padding. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the materials.
- Inspect for Damage: Check for cracks, dents, or worn padding regularly. If any damage is found or if you’ve had a significant impact, it’s time to replace the helmet.
- Store Properly: Keep your helmet in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures to prevent material degradation.
- Replace When Necessary: Helmets generally have a lifespan of 3-5 years, depending on usage and care. If you notice any signs of wear or if it has been in an accident, replace it to ensure optimal safety.
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