7 Best Motorcycle Helmets Under $200: All Types Reviewed

To stay safe on the back of a motorcycle, you want a quality helmet that protects your head. However, you might not want to spend a ton of money getting this protection. That’s why we’ve put together the best motorcycle helmet under $200 reviews. Our list of options ensures that you get the protection you need while keeping some money in your wallet.

What to Expect from Helmets Under 200 Dollars

As you look at the top motorcycle helmets under 200 dollars, you will find that there are not many sacrifices you need to make. In fact, you can get a high-quality helmet from a reputable brand with plenty of features. Many of the top brands even provide a lengthy warranty for additional peace of mind. Some areas where the company might skimp to keep the price down would include the lining materials, ventilation, and accessories. 

Choosing A Quality Motorcycle Helmet Under $200

Helmet Type

There are many types of helmets to choose from, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. For example, an open face helmet allows for the best visibility but doesn’t offer as much protection. You can also choose the full face motorcycle helmet, which is considered the safest. However, this type can be heavy and lack ventilation. In between, you can also choose the modular or half shell helmet types.

Type of Riding & Frequency

Everyone uses their bikes differently. How you ride it and how frequently you take it out will determine what type of helmet you require. For example, the daily commute rider will want a different style helmet than the weekend racer. If you are using the helmet every day, you want something lightweight and with maximum ventilation.

Helmet Shell Construction

Even though you are spending less than $200, you can still expect to purchase a motorcycle helmet that will last. Just look at the shell construction to ensure it's made from a durable material. Some of the top choices used in helmets include Lexan polycarbonate, carbon fiber, EPS, or a fiberglass composite.

Helmet Weight

No one wants to ride around on the back of a bike wearing a heavy helmet. That just makes the journey downright uncomfortable. Instead, opt for a lightweight motorcycle helmet that makes riding fun again. These lighter helmets also transfer less energy, which provides further protection in an accident. However, you might need to sacrifice some weight to keep the price down.

Size & Shell Design

Some motorcycle helmets only come in select sizes. If you need a special size or are looking for a particular shell design, you will have to do more searching. However, if you are only looking for a classic black motorcycle helmet, these are a dime a dozen and won’t be hard to save money on.

Comfort

Do you want to be stuck wearing an uncomfortable helmet? Most people don’t. After evaluating the fit, you must think about how the helmet secures to your head. Also, take a peek at the liner to ensure breathability. Finally, examine the ventilation system to ensure you will get the right amount of air while riding.

Visor Features

Even when you look for a lower-priced motorcycle helmet, you can still expect to receive some visor features. Look for options that include a tinted visor, but don’t overlook the importance of a clear visor for nighttime riding. In addition, you can get visors that offer anti-scratch and anti-fog properties for a seamless experience in any condition.

Safety Ratings & Certifications

Because you wear a helmet to stay safe, you want to look at the ratings and certifications. Most reputable helmets will feature a DOT-approved sticker on the back, but there are others you can look for. Consider the benefit of having a helmet that’s Snell or ECE certified as well.

1. HJC 980-615 IS-MAX II

One of the best options under $200 is this helmet from HJC. A quick look at the reviews shows what makes this motorcycle helmet a fan favorite. Starting with the construction alone, you can tell that it is going to stand up to the stress and abuse you place on it. The shell is made from an advanced polycarbonate composite material that makes it both lightweight and comfortable.

If you want to get your helmet off quickly for gas station fill-ups, you will appreciate the one-handed chin bar and face shield release. In addition, the face shield provides 95% UV protection. You can also put the visor in multiple lockable positions.

If you want to replace the shield, the company provides a tool-less system for a quick swap. Of course, you also want to be comfortable, which is why this helmet offers an ACS advanced channeling ventilation system. The complete front to back airflow wipes out humidity and heat.

You won’t have any trouble finding the right size to fit your head. Additionally, there’s a nice variety of colors to help you express your personality. While the company does offer a three-year warranty, a few customers have complained about getting support for a repair or replacement issue. 

2. Voss 988 Moto-1

If you want some unique styling options, this Voss helmet has what you are looking for. There are even numerous styles that are perfect for providing a feminine feel. The 988 Moto-1 comes with a lightweight injection-molded ABS alloy shell. With this construction, you won't have to worry about excessive weight on your head. Additionally, this helmet comes with dual airflow top vents combined with a lower front vent and large exit port.

The spring-loaded visor minimizes wind noise for a more comfortable ride. There is also a drop down eye shade that offers further convenience. The fully-adjustable ratchet release retention system helps to create the perfect fit for any head type.

The company also provides a variety of sizes. Inside the helmet, you will enjoy the Voss DryTech liner that is easy to maintain and increases hygiene. Even though the price is reasonable, this helmet is communication-ready. Simply add your speaker headsets in the integrated pockets.

You can’t beat the customer reviews offered on this helmet. It’s clear that users are fond of this style. However, the company only provides a one-year warranty, which is quite less than most other manufacturers. Based on the reviews, it’s unlikely that you will ever need to file a claim, which is a plus.

3. AGV K3 SV

If you want full face protection, this option from AGV is a winner. It is a safe and sophisticated helmet designed for any ride. Plus, the helmet is constructed from high-resistant thermoplastic resin to create a durable shell. With this design, you can expect a little extra weight, but not so much that it becomes uncomfortable. Plus, the company offers a variety of sizing choices to ensure your head is comfortable, even during the longest ride.

Even though your entire face is covered, you can enjoy the Integrated Ventilation System (IVS) for plenty of airflow. With the wide ducts inside the EPS shell combined with six total vents, you won’t lack breathability at any point. The DOT-approved helmet continues to be one of the top choices among riding enthusiasts. Just look at all those five-star reviews.

The biggest downside that this helmet has going for it is the lack of color options. It is only available in Matte Black, which is fine if that's what you were looking for. Also, the company only offers a one-year warranty, which doesn't provide as much protection as some of our other choices. Still, you can't ask for much more versatility if you are hoping for a black motorcycle helmet with advanced features.

4. ILM

You don’t have to sacrifice technology in order to purchase a helmet for less than $200. ILM makes this modular motorcycle helmet complete with Bluetooth 3.0 technology. With this system, you will get eight hours of talk time and up to 110 hours of standby. Use this system for making calls, intercom, radio, or GPS integration. The included intercom also supports up to 1,000 feet between two compatible riders. The speakers are built-in the helmet with full stereo sound.

The shell is made from ABS, making it a little less durable than some of the other choices. However, the reviews are still fond of the durability and construction. There is also a fully washable microfiber liner included and completely adjustable vents. This DOT- and ECE-approved helmet sits at the top of cheap Bluetooth motorcycle helmets.

You can choose from three basic color options (Matte Black, Red, and White), but there aren't nearly enough sizing choices. However, there is a size that will fit most head types. Plus, the company only offers a one-year warranty, which wouldn't be a big deal except this helmet has some sophisticated technology that could break. Overall, it doesn't seem to be an issue for most customers, but it's worth mentioning.

5. ScorpionExo Belfast

If you are looking for a classic, retro look, consider this helmet from ScorpionExo. It has a hand-laid fiberglass shell that meets industry standards, but also provides the style you were hoping for. It’s also exceptionally lightweight for a comfortable, enjoyable ride. The hand-stitched interior liner further complements the helmet and helps it to look like a slice of luxury. If that’s not enough, you might enjoy the Nappa leather accents included with the helmet.

The SpeedView sun visor is entirely retractable and also interchangeable. You can adjust it to meet your riding needs and prevent the sun from getting in your eyes. Additionally, this helmet offers Kwikfit cheek pads that are removable. With this design, you can comfortably wear most eyeglasses or motorcycle goggles.

Choose from a multitude of sizes to ensure the perfect fit. There are also three classic color options to pick from (Candy Red, Matte Black, and Matte Metallic Blue). Whichever one you choose, you are sure to stand out on the road and turn heads.

While this helmet has a good portion of five-star reviews, it's important to note that it's another option with only a one-year warranty. We wish it could be a little longer, but understand that some companies have to make sacrifices to keep the price down.

6. Bell Mag-9

Bell is a leader among motorcycle helmets, so it makes sense to trust the company if you are looking for an open face design. This Bell open face motorcycle helmet might not have the latest technology included, but it is compatible with several Bluetooth stereo headsets and intercoms. Furthermore, it’s made from a polycarbonate/ABS shell, which adds to the durability, but also the weight.

The Velocity Flow Ventilation system comes with Flow Adjust to ensure that your entire ride is comfortable. There are also multiple configuration options to choose from. Pick to ride with or without your shield and with or without the visor. The tool-free design allows for quick shield changes. This DOT-approved motorcycle helmet only comes in one size (Large) and one color option (Solid Gloss Pearl White). However, the customers that use these are quite fond of the design and fit.

One of the reasons that Bell helmets continue to rank so highly is due to superior customer support. With this helmet, you can enjoy a five-year warranty that offers complete peace of mind. With the versatility, durable construction, and tech-ready design, it's hard to ask for much more, especially considering you can buy it for less than $200.

7. Daytona Helmets Slim Line Skull

The lightest helmet you can pick from is this Daytona half shell. Even though it provides a minimalistic design, you still get to take advantage of the DOT certification. If you care about your brain, you will pick this over riding without a helmet. Not only is the helmet thin, but it’s also constructed from carbon fiber, making it one of the most comfortable to wear.

Some customers find that wearing a helmet like this can cause pinching and uncomfortable spots, but that’s not the case with this model. This chin strap is perfectly positioned and completely adjustable to protect your skin. It also comes with a custom quick-release lock to make it simple to remove. Sadly, this half shell only comes in one color (Black) and one size (X-Large). If you need something other than this, you will have to look at the other Daytona Helmets options.

Some of the reviews aren't as great as the other models we have shown you. However, looking through them, it becomes clear that many of the riders just aren't used to this style. To protect you down the road, the company does provide a one-year warranty. This guarantee is a little shorter than we would like to see but still enough to protect against premature wear.

Motorcycle Helmet Certifications

Motorcycle Helmet Size Guide – How To Fit

We also found this helpful video with more tips on measuring your head for a motorcycle helmet.

People Also Ask (FAQs)

Is $200 a good budget for a motorcycle helmet?

For the average rider, you won’t have trouble finding a high-quality helmet for less than $200. However, if you are looking for something to take to professional races or you need high-tech features included, you might consider upping the budget slightly.

What’s the best type of motorcycle helmet?

It depends on what you are looking for. The full face motorcycle helmet provides the best protection, but the open face helmet offers more visibility and ventilation. Assess your needs to determine what style suits you best.

What is the quietest motorcycle helmet type?

To fully insulate the road and wind noise, you will want a full face motorcycle helmet. Thankfully, you can easily find the quietest motorcycle helmet under $200 with just a little research.

How long does it take to break in a motorcycle helmet?

In general, you can expect it to take between fifteen and twenty hours of riding before your helmet is completely broken in. After that time, the helmet will provide a better mold and secure fit to your head.

Do helmets loosen over time?

While the helmet will loosen slightly over time, you don’t want to wear something that is too tight. If the helmet is tight enough to cause a headache, it’s time to move up in size.

How often should I replace my helmet?

If you don’t use the helmet excessively and it has never been dropped, you can keep the helmet for five years. If it has been involved in an accident or has excessive wear, you should replace it immediately.

Conclusion