When it comes to helmets, one name springs to mind: AGV. Sure, Shoei and Arai hold their own, but AGV got this world-renowned reputation for unparalleled safety, comfort, and striking designs (have you seen the AGV Pista GP RR?). With a rich history of sponsoring elite racers spanning generations – from the legendary “Ago” Giacomo Agostini, who clinched 15 World Championships between ’63 and ’70, to Kenny Roberts, who secured two World Championships and 22 Grand Prix wins from ’73 to ’76. Not to mention Angel Nieto, with 13 World Championships from ’69 to ’85, and modern-day icon Valentino Rossi, the nine-time World Champion from ’96 to 2021.
As of 2024, AGV (derived from the initials of its founder, Amisano Gino, and his hometown, Valenza) has proudly held its position at the forefront of helmet technology for an impressive 77 years, spearheading significant innovations. Throughout their history, they’ve brought to market the first hard-shell fiberglass full-face helmet, the pioneering 100% carbon fiber modular helmet, and the groundbreaking 5-density EPS (expanded polystyrene) structure. More recently, they’ve developed the lightest road helmet available, among other notable achievements. In their words,
“We set new safety standards. We don’t just follow them: That’s how legends are made,”
A pivotal advancement came with the implementation of Extreme Safety in 2012, a revolutionary construction method prioritizing the rider’s head over just the outer shell of the helmet. It guarantees the optimal balance of all components through thorough manufacturing processes, careful material selections, and innovative functional design, exceeding DOT/ECE/SHARP/FIM certification requirements (remember, AGV helmets aren’t SNELL certified) and expectations for helmet safety and performance.
It all began with AGV’s primary focus on full-face helmets (they’re approximately 45% safer overall compared to open-face and half), reflecting their unwavering commitment to rider protection. As both a rider and an industry leader since the early 1970s, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing this evolution firsthand. And here, I present my selection of the best AGV helmets of 2024:
| Helmet Model | Category | Outstanding Feature | Check & Shop Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| AGV Pista GP RR | Best Track | FIM-Homologated | RevZilla | Amazon |
| AGV K6 | Best Sport Touring | Lightest at 2.95 lbs. | RevZilla | Amazon |
| AGV AX9 | Best Dual Sport | 4 Different Configurations | RevZilla | Amazon |
| AGV Sportmodular | Best Adventure/Touring | First 5-Star SHARP Modular | RevZilla | Amazon |
| AGV K3 | Best Street | XQRS Visor Mechanism | RevZilla | Amazon |
| AGV K1 | Best Entry-Level | Dri-Lex Liner | RevZilla | Amazon |
| AGV X3000 | Best Retro/Vintage | Ago's Iconic Helmet Shape | RevZilla | CycleGear |
Having previously delved extensively into the motivating yet fascinating history of this Italian icon, before proceeding to review the helmets and explaining why I regard them as top choices today, allow me first to highlight what distinguishes AGV helmets from the rest.
Understanding Extreme Safety: AGV’s Exclusive Design Protocol
When you slip on an AGV helmet, it’s all about unlocking your full potential. Whether on the track or the open road, they prioritize offering you extreme protection, enhanced visibility, and a sleek aerodynamic feel. Their aim is for you to relish every ride while feeling completely in control.
That’s why, in 2012, they introduced Extreme Safety for their helmets. Essentially, you get covered every step of the way, and here’s how:
- Material Diversity and Price Points: Unlike Arai and Shoei, AGV manufactures helmets for all riders, ranging from beginners to professionals, with diverse materials and prices. Carbon fiber helmets are strong and lightweight yet pricey while fiberglass helmets, striking a balance between durability and affordability, cost less. Polycarbonate helmets are budget-friendly but less durable than fiberglass or carbon fiber and are suitable for shorter rides. Kevlar helmets offer strength and flexibility at a higher cost. Composite helmets blend materials (fiberglass, Kevlar, and carbon fiber) for enhanced strength at a mid-range cost.
- Impact Protection: AGV helmets undergo rigorous testing during production, with the examination at up to 15 points of impact, including the visor. This exceeds standard requirements by over 150%, conducted at higher impact speeds, surpassing any other helmets on the market.
- Reliable Retention System/Chin Strap: Utilizing titanium Double D-ring chin straps (43% lighter than standard steel DD) across their helmet range, maximizes performance and minimizes weight.
- Multi-Density EPS: By integrating multi-density EPS, AGV ensures that each part of the helmet possesses the appropriate density to match the anticipated impact speed. This innovation, exemplified in helmets like the AGV K6 featuring 5 density EPS liner (the most I’ve seen in any helmet), represents a pioneering approach to impact protection.
- Safety Integrated in Shape: Wind tunnel designs optimize stability at high speeds and reduce drag. Through wind tunnel studies, helmets are tailored to their airflow speed, while spoilers detach or break upon impact to minimize energy transfer.
- Dynamic Weight Optimization: Z-lift, the motion-induced tendency to push up or down, is utilized to counterbalance a helmet’s static weight, effectively creating a floating sensation. AGV helmets capitalize on this principle to minimize neck fatigue during rides, in addition to their exceptionally low weight. For instance, the Pista GP RR practically becomes weightless at 99 mph (160 km/h), while at 56 mph (90 km/h), the K6 feels lighter.
- Enhanced Side Protection: The visor mechanisms are now up to 70% smaller than industry standards. A design that not only enhances peripheral vision but also minimizes potential weak points during impacts.
- Expanded Peripheral Vision: Offers up to 190° of peripheral vision (horizontal visibility), allowing you to spot obstacles and hazards earlier.
- Enhanced Vertical Vision: At least 85° vertical visual field, which is 12.5% greater compared to average helmets, enhances performance and control.
- Robust Face Protection: The visors are up to four times thicker (3-5mm) than standard visors, providing robust protection against impacts. They feature small, durable mechanisms and a central fastening system with a safety lock to prevent detachment after crashes.
- Optimal Visual Quality: The visors are in Optical Class 1, ensuring clear, distortion-free vision without reflection.
- Advanced Anti-fog Performance: All full-face helmets, including the entry-level AGV K1, are equipped with Max Vision Pinlock® 120 technology for maximum visibility in all conditions.
- Secure Visor Mechanisms: The all-metal hinge mechanism ensures smooth action across all opening levels, while the AGV Micro-Lock System and Visor Lock System (VLS), released by a centrally located inset button on the chin-bar, secure the visor during riding and falls, minimizing the risk of accidental opening.
- Collarbone Safe Profile: A special collarbone safe profile, initially developed for racing, minimizes the risk of collarbone injury during impacts.
- Innovative Ventilation System: Intake and exhaust vents ensure optimal comfort and airflow, even in extreme conditions. Leveraging the Venturi effect enhances heat transfer within the helmet, leading to further improved ventilation.
- Superior Comfort: Premium washable interior materials designed for maximum comfort and moisture absorption. For example, the Sportmodular Carbon helmet utilizes Ritmo fabric treated with Sanitized for antibacterial protection, 2Dry for moisture-wicking properties, and Microsense for premium skin comfort and smooth wear.
- Customizable Fit: You can customize the fit with options like the 360° Adaptive Fit system in the Pista GP RR, which lets you choose the best thickness for your head, nape, and cheeks, making sure the helmet fits you perfectly and feels comfortable.
Now that I’ve provided a glimpse into the foundation of AGV helmets’ safety standards, let’s delve into my top picks.
Top 7 Best AGV Helmets
| Helmet Model | Category | Outstanding Feature |
| AGV Pista GP RR | Best Track | FIM-Homologated |
| AGV K6 | Best Sport Touring | Lightest at 2.95 lbs. |
| AGV AX9 | Best Dual Sport | 4 Different Configurations |
| AGV Sportmodular Carbon | Best Adventure/Touring | First 5-Star SHARP Modular Helmet |
| AGV K3 | Best Street | XQRS Visor Mechanism |
| AGV K1 | Best Entry-Level | Dri-Lex Liner |
| AGV X3000 | Best Retro/Vintage | Ago’s Iconic Helmet Shape |
With my extensive background in the motorcycle industry, beginning in 1978 when I introduced AGV helmets to the North American market and spanning 25 years as Vice President of AGV Helmets America, along with nearly 50 years of passionate riding, my connection with the brand is profound.
From my very first helmet, the iconic 1972 AGV X-3000 paying homage to Giacomo Agostini’s “Ago,” to my latest additions, the contemporary AGV K6 full-face road/street helmet and the cutting-edge AGV AX9 Carbon adventure/touring helmet in 2023, my helmet collection reflects the rich history and evolution of AGV. As I evaluate the best AGV helmets available today, these 7 exceptional models truly stand out to me in their respective riding categories:
1. AGV Pista GP RR: Best Track
Valentino Rossi’s helmet—the AGV Pista GP RR, the 2019 FIM-homologated rendition of the GP R (itself a refined version of the iconic Pista GP)—doesn’t just demand attention; it commands it. Its exceptional design, use of premium materials, flawless finish, and yes, its hefty price tag ranging from $1,400 to $1,600 for race replicas, firmly cement its status as one of the most expensive helmets on the market, second only perhaps to Arai’s ultra-exclusive $4,000 Corsair X RC. Yet, when it comes to safety, particularly on the racetrack, there’s hardly a rival.
As a dedicated racing enthusiast, I can confidently affirm that the AGV Pista GP RR is the lightest track-focused motorcycle helmet available. Its exceptional weight efficiency is primarily attributed to its 100% pure carbon fiber outer shell, expertly layered atop a 5-density EPS inner shell. Starting at a mere 1,501 grams (3.31 pounds) for the SM size, it not only surpasses the now discontinued Corsa R but also outshines its competitors in terms of weight optimization.
To put it into perspective, the AGV Pista GP RR is approximately 145 grams (0.32 pounds) lighter than the Corsa R in Medium/Small, around 77 grams (0.17 pounds) lighter than the Arai Corsair X, and an impressive 122 grams (0.27 pounds) lighter than the Shoei X-15, which registers at 3.58 pounds on my scale. Such a weight advantage translates directly to enhanced comfort and agility on the track, allowing you to push your limits with greater ease and finesse. Plus, it comes with a drinks delivery system as standard—a feature lacking in its main rivals, and even its predecessor, the GP.
In an effort to enhance your experience, the Pista GP RR, unlike its predecessor, the Pista GP, introduces an extended, dual-plane rear spoiler, designed to minimize turbulence behind the your head. This addition, a result of extensive testing using Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) simulation software and wind tunnel analysis, marks a significant 4% improvement in aerodynamic performance compared to the Pista GP. The outcome? Smoother airflow and reduced turbulence contribute to a more stable and comfortable ride.
When it comes to ventilation, the Pista GP RR doesn’t disappoint. With three forehead intakes, two chin intakes, and two passive exhaust vents, it ensures consistent airflow throughout the helmet. While the absence of sliders for airflow control limits on-the-go customization, the inclusion of rubber vent covers for the top three forehead intakes provides some adjustment.
But despite the addition of a pre-installed chin curtain, the helmet remains relatively noisy, prompting the use of earplugs provided by AGV. Closing off the forehead vents may reduce noise but compromises ventilation efficiency.
The 360° adaptive fit system allows riders to customize the center pad, nape, and cheeks for a personalized fit tailored to individual preferences. Whether tearing up the track or cruising the streets, the Pista GP RR ensures maximum visibility with its panoramic optical class 1 visor with 5 mm thickness—2 mm thicker than the AGV K6—providing a wide field of vision. The Pinlock 120 anti-fog lens prevents fog formation without obstructing the view, ensuring clear vision in all conditions.
But the helmet lacks speaker cut-outs and isn’t compatible with intercoms, reflecting a deliberate emphasis on safety over additional features.
2. AGV K6: Best Sport Touring
The AGV K6 stands out prominently with its aerodynamic carbon fiber and aramid (Kevlar) shell, striking a fine balance between robust strength and lightweight design. Surpassing its predecessor, the AGV K5, the K6 manages to weigh 0.36 lbs. (163 grams) less in its small size variant (XS-SM, MS, ML-LG, XL-2XL), tipping the scales at just 2.95 lbs. (1,338 grams), making it the lightest road helmet available today.
A distinguishing feature of the AGV K6 is its 5-density EPS in 4 sizes, a rarity in helmets, offering superior shock absorption for impacts of varying magnitudes. An exceptional performance that has earned it a prestigious 5-star rating from SHARP as well as the new ECE 22.06, thanks to rigorous testing against real-world scenarios involving impacts against flat and inclined surfaces at varying speeds.
Ensuring optimal visibility, the optically correct 4mm thick, face shield provides an excellent all-round vision, with 190 degree horizontal and 85 degree vertical view, complemented by the included 100% Max Vision Pinlock 120 fog resistant insert for enhanced clarity in adverse weather conditions.
Comfort is paramount, with removable and washable 2 piece interior liner. Abrasion and water resistant Ritmo and Shalimar cheek pads and neck roll as a single unit, while four clips secure the remaining Shalimar head cover. With the addition of the chin curtain, airflow around the chin is minimized, resulting in a peaceful riding experience characterized by minimal distractions.
Similar to its predecessor, the AGV K5, and in tandem with its counterpart, the AGV K6S, the K6 is equipped for smooth integration with the AGV ARK Communication System, facilitating music and GPS access while riding.
When deciding between the K6 and K6S models, the choice ultimately boils down to personal preference. Essentially, both helmets offer identical features and functionalities. The K6S, however, distinguishes itself with a more pronounced and sportier rear spoiler inspired by the sleek design seen in MotoGP racing.
3. AGV AX9: Best Dual Sport
The AGV AX9, a successor to the highly-regarded AX-8 DS EVO, emerges as my top choice in the realm of dual sport helmets, earning its place as one of the best options available today. Its tagline, ‘FROM TOURING TO DIRT ROADS, COMPLETE MODULARITY,’ rings true, as exemplified by my ownership of three AX9 helmets spanning continents—from the US to Southeast Asia (Vietnam and Thailand), and all the way to Kyiv, Ukraine.
Having personally experienced its performance across diverse environments, I can attest to its exceptional quietness and comfort in all conditions. Whether enduring scorching 34-degree Celsius heat in Southeast Asia or braving cold, rainy weather in Ukraine, the AX9 consistently proves its mettle as an outstanding helmet.
The AGV AX-9 Carbon is one of my absolute favorite helmets of all time. In the photo above, I’m standing in front of an Epicentr superstore in Bucha, Ukraine, a northern suburb of Kyiv/Kiev, which was hit by an errant missile a few months earlier. It was a chilly fall day, and this helmet’s super plush interior and great face shield made it exceptionally comfortable, perfect for cooler weather.
The helmet smoothly adapts to at 4 riding scenarios, effortlessly transitioning from highway cruising with the visor and no peak, to dual sport riding with a blended peak and visor, or even tackling rugged trails with the peak, goggles, and no visor. The retractable anti-scratch visor, equipped with 100% Max Vision Pinlock® anti-fog technology, offers panoramic vision with an impressive 190° peripheral and 110° vertical view.
Featuring a versatile ventilation system, the AGV AX9 incorporates a customizable central chin vent equipped with a removable/washable filter, ideal for off-road excursions, and top vents that efficiently channel air into the helmet. The design prioritizes both demisting behind the visor and cooling onto the face, garnering praise from riders for its exceptional airflow and ample padding space. The option to remove the front vent cover also enhances airflow, while the possibility to switch to goggles provides further cooling on hot days.
I’ve also found mounting my new GoPro HERO12 Black to be a breeze, with the helmet accommodating various positions—centered on the crown, chin, side, or peak—ensuring every exhilarating moment is captured. Noteworthy are the built-in ear speaker pockets, seamlessly integrating Bluetooth communications for enhanced connectivity, even without a visor deflecting wind.
Despite its feature-rich design, including a thick removable, and washable hypoallergenic inner lining, the AX9 maintains a lightweight construction. The 100% carbon version weighs a reasonably light 1,450 grams (3.2 lbs.), while the composite of carbon, Kevlar, and fiberglass version weighs around 1,550 grams (3.4 lbs.). Both are molded into three different shell sizes (XS-MS, ML-XL, and 2XL) to ensure optimal fitment across all sizes.
4. AGV Sportmodular: Best Adventure/Touring
According to AGV, the safety benchmarks set by the Sportmodular Carbon helmet rival those of the esteemed Pista GP RR, a helmet celebrated for its outstanding safety features. But what’s truly remarkable is that the Sportmodular made history by becoming the first modular helmet to secure a coveted 5-star SHARP rating—an accolade that speaks volumes about its commitment to rider protection. Notably, it’s also the inaugural modular sport helmet and the premier 100% carbon fiber modular helmet in its class, tipping the scales at a mere 1,451 grams (3.2 lbs.).
Setting itself apart from other flip-up helmets, including AGV’s Tourmodular, is the innovative reversible lining and patented ventilation-enhancing reversible crown. The reversible crown offers a dual-sided design: a sumptuously smooth Ritmo cool side engineered to keep you cool and dry in scorching conditions, and a plush Shalimar warm side that provides comforting warmth during chilly rides.
Furthermore, its water-resistant exterior adds an extra layer of defense against moisture intrusion, ensuring comfort in every weather scenario. The interior lining, made from luxuriously soft 2Dry materials, not only effectively wicks away moisture but also delivers a snug, ergonomic fit, guaranteeing hours of comfortable riding.
The GT3-1 (for XS-LG) and GT3-2 (for XL-3XL) face shields keep your vision clear by preventing scratches and fogging. Offering a wide vertical view (85°) and exceptional horizontal vision (190°), they ensure excellent visibility. The two sizes guarantee a snug fit, reducing air drafts and noise for added comfort. Plus, with its Visor Lock System to prevent accidental openings, it’s a reliable companion on the road.
And much like the Shoei Neotec II and Shoei GT-Air II helmets, the AGV Sportmodular features a practical drop-down inner shield, enhancing versatility while offering added protection from glare and debris.
5. AGV K3: Best Street
Looking to keep your cool during street riding? The AGV K3 steps up to the plate with a plethora of features that make it a compelling choice. From its stellar ventilation to its accommodating space for intercom systems, this helmet doesn’t disappoint. Plus, with an anti-scratch/anti-fog visor equipped with a handy micro-slider, a washable liner, and an integrated sun-visor, it’s clear that AGV has put some serious thought into rider comfort and convenience.
But there’s a slight hiccup in the sun-visor department. While the integrated feature is a definite plus, it doesn’t retract all the way up when not in use, which can be a tad bothersome, particularly when you’re in a racing tuck position. It’s a minor inconvenience that may obscure some vertical vision, but it doesn’t overshadow the overall value this helmet offers.
Speaking of value, the inclusion of a Pinlock is a standout feature, especially considering the price range. It’s not every day you come across affordable helmets bundled with such premium add-ons, so kudos to AGV for going the extra mile.
And the Extra Quick Release System (XQRS) visor mechanism transforms what could be a tedious visor-switching task into a breezy, 20-second affair. You’ll also appreciate the excellent ventilation system, courtesy of 4 intake vents and one rear extractor. But be warned: all that airflow comes at a cost, namely in the form of increased noise levels. For optimal comfort, investing in a pair of earplugs is advisable, especially if you’re planning to use intercoms or need to stay alert to surrounding traffic.
Despite the noise factor, the AGV K3 still manages to impress with a commendable 4 out of 5 stars on the Safety Helmet Assessment and Rating Programme (SHARP) test. Constructed from high-resistance thermoplastic, this helmet strikes a balance between affordability and safety, making it a solid street option for riders looking for quality without breaking the bank.
6. AGV K1: Best Entry-Level
Offering a striking resemblance to its pricier counterpart, the AGV Pista RR, at a fraction of the cost, the AGV K1 emerges as a standout choice among entry-level helmets. Sporting a sleek and aerodynamic design, the K1 doesn’t just look the part—it delivers on performance, too, boasting exceptional airflow and exhaust capabilities. But be prepared for a bit of noise due to its racing-inspired design. Like the Pista RR, earplugs come highly recommended, not only to tame wind noise but also to enhance your overall auditory awareness on the road.
Equipped with a 100% UV protection, scratch-resistant, anti-fog polycarbonate generously wide face shield (available 2 shield sizes (GT 4-1 for helmet sizes XS, SM, and MD and GT 4 for sizes LG, XL, and 2XL)) that effectively minimizes blind spots without compromising your vertical field of view, the K1 enhances your riding experience, keeping you more connected to your surroundings.
Equipped with a generously wide face shield made of scratch-resistant, anti-fog polycarbonate, providing 100% UV protection, the AGV K1 enhances your riding experience. Available in two shield sizes (GT 4-1 for helmet sizes XS, SM, and MD, and GT 4 for sizes LG, XL, and 2XL), it effectively minimizes blind spots without compromising your vertical field of view, keeping you more connected to your surroundings.
And when you pair it with the convenience of the Extra Quick Release System (XQRS), swapping visors becomes a breeze, saving you time and frustration, especially in those urgent situations where a quick change is needed. It’s worth noting, though, that while the K1 is Pinlock compatible, the Pinlock itself is not included in the package—a minor drawback considering its overall value proposition.
The K1’s HIR-TH (High Resistance Thermoplastic Resin) shell construction may not be the most exotic material, but AGV’s track record speaks volumes, consistently achieving a commendable 4 out of 5 stars on the rigorous SHARP test. Coupled with the inclusion of a washable and antibacterial Dri-Lex liner, comfort and safety are top priorities. The antibacterial liner not only ensures a fresher experience after long rides but its removable and washable nature means you can bid farewell to lingering odors with ease.
But it’s not all smooth sailing. One notable gripe lies with the oversized Velcro holding the top-head liner above the eyebrows, causing discomfort and irritation over time. Unfortunately, this isn’t something you can adjust on the fly while riding. Nevertheless, considering the K1’s price point, such minor inconveniences are relatively easy to overlook in the grand scheme of things.
7. AGV X3000: Best Retro/Vintage
The AGV X3000 pays homage to Giacomo Agostini’s iconic racing helmet from the early 1970s, a design that holds a special place in the hearts of many riders, myself included—it was actually my first helmet. Embracing the trend of modern retro helmets, the X3000 aims to capture the essence of that bygone era while incorporating the latest safety technology and features that modern riders expect.
Much like its counterparts such as the Bell Bullet or Biltwell Gringo, the X3000 is undoubtedly a helmet chosen primarily for its vintage aesthetics, often to complement retro motorcycles in equally nostalgic settings. But to earn its place beyond occasional retro rides, it must offer more than just looks to meet the demands of modern riders.
Constructed using AGV’s advanced fiberglass helmet forming technology and available in three shell sizes (XS-MS, ML-LG, XL-2XL), the X3000 ensures a tailored fit and promises solid impact protection. With every AGV fiberglass helmet subjected to SHARP testing, consistently achieving impressive safety ratings of four or five stars, there’s little reason to doubt the X3000’s ability to provide reliable protection.
Secured with traditional racing double D-ring fasteners, the X3000 features a generously sized anti-scratch shield offering a clear view of the road ahead and excellent peripheral vision. While its aerodynamic profile may not match that of modern helmets, resulting in increased wind resistance and noise according to some owners, the absence of protruding vents, fins, and spoilers minimizes turbulence-induced noise.
Inside the helmet, ample EPS and lining, along with a neck roll, work to mitigate wind and noise infiltration from below. Cleverly integrated vents atop the shield, aligned with corresponding vent holes in the shell, facilitate airflow through the shield, shell, and into the helmet, effectively cooling the scalp through channels in the polystyrene liner.
Regarding sizing, I typically wear an MS (Medium/Small) in other AGV helmets, including the Pista RR, Sportmodular, and K6. But, I opted for an ML (Medium/Large) in the X3000, and the fit is spot-on.
Michael’s Summary and Conclusion
 I've diligently categorized my motorcycle gear recommendations into all available categories, with the aim of providing you with a comprehensive analysis that showcases the absolute best options for all your needs. These items are the culmination of in-depth research, extensive testing, and personal use throughout my vast experience of 50+ years in the world of motorcycling. Besides being a passionate rider, I've held leadership positions and offered consultancy services to reputable companies in over 25 countries. To See Top Picks and the Best Prices & Places to Buy: Click Here! |
Information for this article was partially sourced and researched from the following authoritative government agencies, educational institutions, and nonprofit organizations:
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