How Much Does a Motorcycle Helmet Cost? Complete Guide

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By Malaika Almas

When I first started riding, one of the biggest questions I had was, how much does a motorcycle helmet cost? I quickly learned that helmet prices can range from surprisingly affordable to shockingly expensive. 

Over the years, I’ve purchased a few helmets, and the cost really depends on what you’re looking for. Whether you’re just starting out or ready to upgrade, understanding what goes into the price of a helmet can help you make a more informed decision.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the different price ranges for motorcycle helmets, based on my personal experience of shopping for and using them.

Quick Fix

Motorcycle helmet prices vary widely, from $50 to over $1,000, depending on factors like helmet type, materials, safety certifications (DOT, ECE, Snell), and added features such as Bluetooth and ventilation systems. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, understanding what impacts helmet costs will help you make an informed decision for both safety and comfort.


Why Do Motorcycle Helmet Prices Vary?

Motorcycle helmet prices range anywhere from $50 to over $1,000—and trust me, I’ve seen it all while shopping around. But why such a huge range?

Well, there are a few things that affect how much you’ll pay:

  • Helmet Type: Full-face helmets tend to be more expensive than open-face or half-helmets because they offer more protection. When I was choosing my first full-face helmet, I noticed the added protection often comes with a bigger price tag.
  • Materials: The materials used in the helmet make a huge difference in price. A basic polycarbonate helmet is usually more affordable, but I opted for a fiberglass one because it was lighter and felt stronger, though it cost more.
  • Safety Certifications: Helmets with higher safety certifications like DOT, ECE, or Snell are often more expensive because of the testing involved. Personally, I always look for a helmet with at least DOT or ECE certification to ensure safety.
  • Brand and Design: Premium brands often come with premium prices. I remember being tempted by some cool graphic designs, but those special-edition helmets can easily cost hundreds more.

How Much Does a Motorcycle Helmet Cost| Types and Their Costs

1. Full-Face Helmets

Full-face helmets cover your entire head, including the face and chin, which is why they’re my go-to for long rides. They offer the best protection, which I value when riding at higher speeds.

 Full-Face Helmets
  • Cost Range: $150 – $800
  • My Research: I bought a basic HJC full-face helmet for $180, and it’s been solid for daily rides. However, if you’re looking at more premium helmets like a Shoei or AGV, you could be looking at closer to $600 to $800, especially if you want one made from lightweight carbon fiber.

2. Modular Helmets

Modular, or flip-up helmets, combine the safety of a full-face helmet with the convenience of an open-face. I bought one of these for a long road trip because I liked the idea of being able to flip up the chin bar without taking off the entire helmet.

Modular Helmets
  • Cost Range: $200 – $700
  • My Research: The LS2 modular helmet I got cost me around $220, which I found to be a great balance between price and functionality. However, I did see some high-end Schuberth models priced upwards of $700.

3. Open-Face Helmets

If you’re riding in the city or just want something lightweight, open-face helmets are a good option. It is also best for glasses riders. They don’t cover your face, which is a trade-off between comfort and protection.

Open-Face Helmets
  • Cost Range: $100 – $400
  • My Research: I picked up a Bell Custom 500 for around $150. It’s great for short rides and cruising, though I wouldn’t rely on it for high-speed or long-distance rides. If you’re willing to spend more, helmets like the Shoei J-Cruise can hit the $400 mark.

4. Half Helmets

Half helmets offer the least protection, covering only the top of your head. These are popular with cruiser riders, and I tried one out for a few summer rides.

Half Helmets
  • Cost Range: $50 – $250
  • My Research: I grabbed a basic half helmet for around $60 just to test it out. While I enjoyed the wind in my face, the limited protection wasn’t ideal for me, especially at higher speeds.

5. Dual-Sport Helmets

If you do a mix of off-road and on-road riding, dual-sport helmets offer the best of both worlds. I haven’t personally bought one yet, but I’ve been eyeing them for future adventures.

Dual-Sport Helmets
  • Cost Range: $150 – $600
  • My Research: The Bell MX-9, which is a popular entry-level option, costs around $150, but the Arai XD-4, which offers more advanced features and better materials, can go for over $600.

If you’re interested in how to measure the size of a helmet, check out my guide to study it. 


What Affects the Cost of a Motorcycle Helmet?

1. Materials

One of the first things I noticed while shopping for helmets is that the materials can really influence the price.

  • Polycarbonate: The most affordable option, with prices ranging from $50 to $200. I had a polycarbonate helmet at the beginning, but it felt heavier compared to more expensive options.
  • Fiberglass: Lightweight and strong, fiberglass helmets are usually priced between $200 and $600. My current helmet is fiberglass, and it’s much more comfortable on long rides.
  • Carbon Fiber: If you’re willing to spend, carbon fiber helmets are the best in terms of weight and durability. Prices often start at $500 and can go way up from there.

2. Safety Certifications

I’ve always made it a priority to buy helmets that meet at least DOT or ECE standards, but I’ve also considered Snell-certified helmets for extra assurance.

  • DOT Certified Helmets: These are the most common in the U.S. and can be found for as low as $50.
  • ECE Certified Helmets: These helmets meet stricter European safety standards, usually priced from $150 and up.
  • Snell Certified Helmets: These are considered some of the safest, with prices often starting at $300. If safety is your top concern, Snell helmets are worth the extra cost.

3. Extra Features

The more features a helmet has, the higher the price. For example, helmets with built-in Bluetooth, better ventilation, or washable liners are often more expensive. 

One thing I love about my current helmet is the removable liner, which makes cleaning so much easier. If you’re curious, check out this guide on how to wash motorcycle helmet pads.


How Much Should You Spend on a Motorcycle Helmet?

From my personal experience, how much you should spend on a helmet depends on how often you ride and your comfort needs.

  • New Riders: If you’re just starting out, you can find a decent, safe helmet for around $100 to $200.
  • Regular Riders: For those who ride often, investing in a $300 to $600 helmet is worth it. I found that mid-range helmets offer more comfort and durability for daily use.
  • High-Speed or Professional Riders: If you’re into high-speed or long-distance riding, spending over $600 for a premium helmet makes sense for the added safety, comfort, and durability.

Additional Costs to Consider

1. Helmet Replacement

Even the best helmet needs to be replaced eventually. Helmets should be swapped out every 5 years, even if they haven’t been involved in an accident. 

After a few years, the materials degrade, so I usually start looking for a replacement around the 4-5 year mark. You can find more details about how often you should replace a motorcycle helmet here.

2. Accessories

Don’t forget to budget for extras like helmet locks or tinted visors. I’ve learned the hard way how valuable it is to know how to use a helmet lock on a motorcycle, especially if you’ve invested in a higher-end helmet.

Are Expensive Helmets Worth It?

From my experience, expensive helmets are worth it if you’re after advanced features and comfort. While you can find a $150 helmet that meets safety standards, higher-end helmets often come with better materials, superior ventilation, and extras like Bluetooth integration or sun visors. 

However, if safety is your main concern, even a budget-friendly helmet that’s DOT or ECE certified will offer solid protection.


Conclusion

In my experience, motorcycle helmet prices vary widely, from $50 to over $1,000. The type of helmet, materials, safety certifications, and added features all play a role in determining the cost. 

Whether you’re a new rider looking for an entry-level helmet or a seasoned rider seeking top-tier protection, there’s a helmet out there that fits your needs and budget. Just make sure to prioritize safety and comfort over fancy designs or unnecessary features.

If you’re interested in more helmet tips, check out our guide on how to use a helmet lock on a motorcycle .


FAQ’s

  1. How much does a motorcycle helmet cost on average?

From what I’ve seen, the average motorcycle helmet costs between $150 and $500, depending on the type, brand, and features.

  1. Are cheap motorcycle helmets safe?

Yes, as long as they’re DOT or ECE certified. In fact, I’ve used an affordable DOT-certified helmet, and it provided solid protection, though it lacked some comfort features.

  1. Can I use a bicycle helmet for riding a motorcycle?

No, bicycle helmets aren’t designed for the higher speeds and impacts involved in motorcycle riding. Stick to a proper motorcycle helmet to stay safe.

  1. Can I take a motorcycle helmet on a plane?

Yes, you can! I’ve flown with my helmet a few times, and it’s always better to carry it on as hand luggage to avoid damage. For more tips, check out this guide on can I take a motorcycle helmet on a plane.