As someone who’s worn every type of helmet out there for over 50 years, I can tell you that dual sport helmets have made significant advancements in recent years, particularly after 2018, with some even featuring Bluetooth connectivity. Enough to make you wonder — what are the best dual sport helmets with Bluetooth on the market today? Well, here are my top picks:
| Helmet Model | Category | Bluetooth Communication System | Check & Shop Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| AGV AX9 | Best Overall | Ear Speaker Pockets | RevZilla | MotoSport | Amazon |
| Arai XD-4 | Best High-End | Speaker Pockets | RevZilla | MotoSport | Amazon |
| Sedici Viaggio Parlare | Best Entry-Level | Integrated SENA DWO-5 v3.0 Headset | RevZilla | MotoSport | Amazon |
| Klim Krios Pro | Best Lightest | Ear Speaker Pockets | RevZilla | MotoSport | Amazon |
| Scorpion EXO-AT950 | Best Flip-Up | Integrated EXO-COM® Communicator | RevZilla | MotoSport | Amazon |
| Schuberth E1 Adventure | Best Quietest | Integrated Cardo SRC System Pro | RevZilla | MotoSport | Amazon |
| Shoei Hornet X2 | Best Touring | Speaker Pockets | RevZilla | MotoSport | Amazon |
Some helmets come with pre-installed Bluetooth systems or cutouts for adding your own headset. Pre-installed systems require no additional work and seamlessly integrate into the helmet. On the downside, they lack flexibility as you’re unable to switch to different systems or upgrade when new technology emerges.
But it’s not just about Bluetooth comms. There is more to advancements in style and protection that I’ve had the opportunity to experience.
Advanced Dual-Sport Helmet: Style, Protection, and Confidence
Adventure-Ready
The dual-sport helmet is the perfect choice for the adventurous at heart, combining the features of an off-road and a full-face helmet. It all starts with a larger eye portal, complete with a retractable face shield that can easily snap into an up position for goggles and an inner drop-down visor that you can separately lower to adjust to any lighting conditions you might encounter.
The aerodynamic visor design ensures a comfortable ride without any lift in the wind, and a proper fit guarantee is especially crucial for extended wear.
Enhanced Versatility
You also get a quick-release buckle that allows you to put it on and take it off with ease, even with your motorcycle gloves still on. Let’s not forget the elongated chin bar for better ventilation and to whisk away moist air from the shield, while the protruding peak offers shade and shields your face from branches and rocks.
Vital Protection
Even though I’ve seen a 10.6% uptrend in the use of motorcycle helmets over the last 11 years and a 17% increase in the last two decades (from 43% in 2000 to 69% in 2020), the trend has been on a downward trajectory since 2018. The rate has declined from its peak of 71% (the highest recorded since the introduction of helmet laws in 1966) to 64.9% in 2021.
But all things considered, the number of dual sport helmets that have received helmet standard certifications has increased since 2015. Among them, the Klim Krios Pro, the first adventure-specific DOT (FMVSS 218) helmet in North America to incorporate Koroyd® impact-absorbing technology, stands out as the latest addition, having met the newest ECE 22.06 rating standard that replaces the outgoing ECE 22.05.
A FIM-homologated, SHARP-rated, SNELL-approved, and ECE- or DOT-certified helmet can significantly reduce the risk of fatal and serious head injuries by 37% and 69%, respectively. And, with these certifications, you get to ride with the confidence of being legally compliant.
Helmet Requirements and Coverage for Motorcycle-Type Vehicles in Different Cities
| City | State | Helmet Requirement | Motorcycle-Type Vehicles Not Covered |
|---|---|---|---|
| Austin | Texas | All riders | All are covered |
| Miami | Florida | 20 and younger | Moped |
| Lincoln | Nebraska | 20 and younger | All are covered (effective 01/01/2024) |
| Chicago | Illinois | No law | No law |
| New York | New York | All riders | Class C limited use motorcycle |
| Atlanta | Georgia | All riders | Moped |
| Phoenix | Arizona | 17 and younger | Moped |
| Columbus | Ohio | 17 and younger | All are covered |
| Portland | Maine | 17 and younger | Motorized bicycle |
| Seattle | Washington | All riders | All are covered |
| Columbus | Ohio | 17 and younger | All are covered |
| Portland | Maine | 17 and younger | Motorized bicycle |
Source: U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
Approximately 5,157 cities, including Montgomery (Alabama), Los Angeles (California), and Atlanta (Georgia), from 19 states, along with the District of Columbia, mandate universal helmet laws that require all riders to wear DOT-approved helmets. The remaining cities and states have only partial helmet laws, while cities like Chicago (Illinois), Concord (New Hampshire), and Des Moines (Iowa) are notable for not having any existing helmet laws.
Now, keeping these factors in mind, let me proceed with reviewing my top picks.
Top 7 Best Dual Sport Helmets with Bluetooth
| Helmet Model | Category | Bluetooth Communication System | Weight (Pounds) |
|---|---|---|---|
| AGV AX9 | Best Overall | Ear Speaker Pockets | 3.4 lbs. |
| Arai XD-4 | Best High-End | Speaker Pockets | 3.66 lbs. |
| Sedici Viaggio Parlare | Best Entry-Level | Integrated SENA DWO-5 v3.0 Headset | 3.62 lbs. |
| Klim Krios Pro | Best Lightest | Ear Speaker Pockets | 3.1 lbs. |
| Scorpion EXO-AT950 | Best Flip-Up | Integrated EXO-COM® Communicator | 3.77 lbs. |
| Schuberth E1 Adventure | Best Quietest | Integrated Cardo SRC System Pro | 3.79 lbs. |
| Shoei Hornet X2 | Best Touring | Speaker Pockets | 3.92 lbs. |
My selection comprises helmets that I’ve personally come across. I prioritize sharing my own insights rather than relying on rumors or second-hand information because my main objective is to make sure that you can benefit the most from my 46 years of expertise, as of today. These dual sport helmets combine the quietness, agility, and protection of a street helmet with the lightweight design, optimal ventilation, and extra wide eye portal of an off-road lid, providing a safer and more comfortable long ride while also allowing you to enjoy the views.
And cater to everyone’s needs and facilitate the comparison of items of similar value, I’ve thoughtfully categorized my choices into different categories:
1. AGV AX9: Best Overall
| Specifications | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| ● Price: $714.95 ● Shape: Intermediate Oval ● Weight: 3.4 lbs. ● Size: 3 Shell Sizes (XS-MS, ML-XL, 2XL) ● Certifications: DOT, ECE 22.05 | ✔ Lightweight and sturdy shell made with anti-UV composite material ✔ Removable and easily adjustable face shield and peak ✔ Built-in sun visor and pinlock to ward off fog ✔ Bluetooth ready right from the box | ✘ Stiff sun visor lever, difficult to operate with gloves ✘ Only available in three shell sizes |
When it comes to helmets, I simply can’t ignore the one and only Italian giant maker, AGV, renowned for producing some of the safest motorcycle helmets in the market, particularly the AGV AX9, the best all-around dual sport helmet today. AGV’s AX9 slogan, ‘FROM TOURING TO DIRT ROADS, COMPLETE MODULARITY,’ rings true, and I can attest to it with my three AX9 helmets: one in the US, one in Southeast Asia for Vietnam and Thailand, and one in Kyiv, Ukraine.
I can confidently say that this is one of the best helmets I have ever owned, as it is both very quiet and comfortable in all conditions. For instance, I wore it when it was 34 degrees Celsius in Southeast Asia, and I wore it when it was cold and rainy in Ukraine. It was a great helmet in all conditions!
Adding the carbon-aramidic fiberglass shell, you have a helmet built to adapt to every riding scenario, from powering through interstate highways with the visor and no peak to a blended peak and visor dual sport riding mode to navigating remote goat trails with peak, goggles, and no visor. The retractable anti-scratch visor with 100% Max Vision Pinlock® anti-fog technology provides a panoramic visor with 190° peripheral and 110° vertical vision.
I also have the privilege of experiencing the ease of mounting my new GoPro HERO11 Black in either a centered top position on the crown, on the chin, side, or peak, ensuring that I capture every action-packed moment. But what is remarkable is the built-in ear speaker pockets that give you the opportunity to integrate Bluetooth communications. And the wind stops; make sure you can use the comms even without a visor.
Even with its features, including the thick removable and washable hypoallergenic inner lining, this sub $800 helmet beats the more expensive Klim Krios Pro and Nexx X.WED2 Vaal Carbon helmets for a lightweight design. The fellow Italian Airoh Commander Adventure is remarkably similar in design but much more affordable, offering welcome competitiveness in this otherwise rigid segment.
On the world stage, the AGV AX9, an upgrade of the popular AX-8 DS EVO, is still better at venting than the Shoei Hornet X2, thanks mainly to its larger direct open chin vent in the front.
2. Arai XD-4: Best High-End
| Specifications | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| ● Price: $639-649.00 ● Shape: Intermediate Oval ● Weight: 3.66 lbs. Size: 6 Shell Sizes (XS, S, MD, LG, XL, XXL) ● Certifications: DOT, SNELL M2020D | ✔ Custom fit with Facial Contour System (FCS) ✔ Redesigned vents and diffusers for stability and maximal air flow ✔ Chin vent with intake ports and slider actuated antifogging cowls ✔ Has EQRS for easy removal in case of an emergency | ✘ Not the lightest helmet ✘ Doesn’t support pinlock inserts |
How many manufacturers give you a 5-year warranty? The handmade superior quality of Arai is evident in the XD-4, which has been tried, tested, and proven effective since its debut in 2012, replacing its predecessor, the XD3. It’s hard to believe a decade has flown past, and it was so ahead of its time that those who got the earlier models don’t feel the need to upgrade just yet.
The SNELL M2020D certification badge reassures you that you are not compromising on safety, while the look and feel of the helmet is reminiscent of the same great comfort, safety, and quality found throughout Arai’s range of premium helmets.
Furthermore, the peel-away cheek and micro-fitting temple pads (Facial Contour Support) allow you to custom fit the helmet to your head and face shape, and the performance of its internals certainly makes it the choice of many avid ADV motorcycle riders. The removable peak is solid with a floating design that allows it to redirect air into the enhanced intake vents below it, while the vents feature fitted sculpted cowls and diffusers that maximize air flow.
Unlike the LS2 Explorer Carbon, the Arai XD-4 has cutouts in the cheek pads to allow for easy installation and comfortable fit of communication units like the Sena 20S EVO, Cardo Packtalk Edge, Cardo Scala Q3, or UClear Plus.
The LS2 Explorer Carbon has plenty of room for Bluetooth speakers, but no specific recesses are cut out for them. You can place speakers inside your helmet, but be careful not to obstruct your ears while wearing the helmet with a snug fit. You can push them a little back, and don’t mind the boom mic as it will still work even when it’s further back from your mouth area.
3. Sedici Viaggio Parlare: Best Entry-Level
| Specifications | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| ● Price: $289.99 ● Shape: Intermediate Oval ● Weight: 3.62 lbs. ● Size: 6 Shell Sizes (XS, SM, MD, LG, XL, 2XL ) ● Certifications: DOT | ✔ Hi-tech injection molded ABS shell ✔ Inbuilt Sena DWO-5 BT with universal intercom compatibility ✔ Removable and washable airflow padding and interior lining ✔ Firmware upgrade supported | ✘ Air intake and ventilation is not very effective ✘ Lacks a chin curtain making it loud at higher speeds |
The Sedici Viaggio Parlare is bargain for price point versus the features and style that it presents. Built on an injection-molded ABS shell, the helmet is sturdy and earns a DOT rating, its appeal extends beyond mere reliability.
The added comfort features, like the removable comfort liner and cheek pad, which make the Parlare worthwhile if you’re looking for an entry-level ADV helmet or a reliable choice for your pillion. Besides, it would serve as an ideal complement to your daily riding gear during those well-deserved weekend getaways.
I’m talking about a large and protective face shield that you can order in a clear or dark shade, a low-tint sun visor, a large shading peak, decent build quality, and an integrated Bluetooth comms system: the DWO-5 Bluetooth v3.0 headset by Sena.
The DWO-5 is built on the same platform as the Sena SMH5, giving you up to 8 hours of conversation, pairing with up to three devices, hands-free voice dialing commands, turn-by-turn navigation, and the ability to mesh with other comms and several days of standby time. Unfortunately, the Sena-equipped Bluetooth version is currently limited to Matte Black or White color options of the helmet.
But for a budget-friendly Bluetooth dual sport helmet, I couldn’t find a better option within the price range of below $300. In fact, today, there is little difference between the Sedici Viaggio Parlare and the Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS.
Bell incorporates MIPS technology, which offers an additional layer of protection for novice riders in the event of a fall. On the contrary, Parlare stands out with its impressive Bluetooth integration, whereas Bell lacks cutouts for integrating your own headset. With Parlare, you can expect straightforward convenience and excellent value for your money.
4. Klim Krios Pro: Best Lightest
| Specifications | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| ● Price: $749.99 ● Shape: Intermediate Oval ● Weight: 3.1 lbs. ● Size: 7 Shell Sizes (XS, SM, MD, LG, XL, 2XL, 3XL) ● Certifications: DOT, ECE 22.06 | ✔ Clear and dark smoke face shields and a pinlock insert ✔ Carbon woven shell with Koroyd energy dispersing materials ✔ Includes Transitions® photochromic lens ✔ Sena 10U compatible | ✘ Limited airflow compared to off-road helmets ✘ The photochromic visor doesn't change quickly in tunnels |
Klim has been at the forefront of research and development of new helmet technology, as is evident in their Klim Krios Pro, the lightest adventure helmet available today at 3.1 pounds and the only ECE 22.06 certified helmet on this list.
Built on the chassis of the existing DOT- and ECE 22.05-rated Klim Krios Karbon, the new Krios Pro proudly combines a lightweight and sturdy full carbon fiber shell with class-defining ultra-clear and optically correct vision.
And, you can save some money by buying it alongside a Sena 10U unit (sold separately). Klim worked with Sena to give you a sleek and streamlined Bluetooth-compatible helmet, complete with ear pockets, which is ready to use right off the bat.
Take, for instance, their sleek premium ventilation and perfected Aero Acoustic performance, with eight intake vents on the front and four exhaust vents at the rear, which is a feat of engineering designed to keep your head cool and your focus on the road ahead.
Additional work on the spoiler behind and the peak upfront balances out the drag on the helmet, eliminating unwanted lift and essentially gliding it through the air.
Like the AGV AX9, you can use it with a visor, with a visor and goggles, with goggles alone and no visor, and the peak is removable, too. The cheek pads and inner liner stick on with velcro and are easy to remove, but they lack emergency quick release. The chin curtain is permanently stitched on the shell, which can be advantageous in situations where other such appendages prove difficult to keep in place.
5. Scorpion EXO-AT950: Best Flip-Up
| Specifications | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| ● Price: $269-274.00 ● Shape: Intermediate Oval ● Weight: 3.77 lbs. ● Size: 3 Shell Sizes (XS-4XL) ● Certifications: DOT | ✔ Ellip-Tec™ Ratchet System seals shield securely and allows tool-less disassembly ✔ Removable block off plates for use without visor ✔ Aggressively styled helmet, especially in fighter pilot configuration without peak ✔ Breath Box and Aero Skirt cold weather kit | ✘ The ventilation system could be better ✘ Chin bar filter is fixed |
The Scorpion Exo-AT950 is a modular adventure helmet, a rare find in this category with only the pricey Schuberth E1 upwards of $800 to contend with. It’s made of a polycarbonate shell, nothing too fancy, but with moderate weight and aggressive styling.
For dual sport riding, you would expect nothing less than a functional peak with a drop-down shield over a wide portal. The Exo-AT950 comes with the new no-fog EverClear® face shield with a special chemical treatment to ward off unwanted cloudiness that might impede vision on chilly rides.
Scorpion also adds a sun visor to adapt to brighter riding conditions, and flip-up fans will love that they can get this feature in the sub-$300-dollar range. But there’s even more to be thrilled about—the latest model, the Scorpion EXO-AT960, was launched in the spring of 2023, replacing its predecessor, the EXO-AT950, which had been a mainstay since 2016.
As you ride in a group, you need to stay connected to the pack and manage your calls with comms. Thankfully, Scorpion made the AT950 to integrate seamlessly with the EXO-COM® Bluetooth® Communicator Kit. Already own a Cardo or Sena? Don’t worry, the large speaker pockets included make this lid compatible with other COM systems as well.
The flip-up feature makes up for the subpar ventilation (in my opinion), with only two intakes on the front and smaller exhaust vents on the rear. Scorpion designed the Exo-AT950 for use on snow, with adaptability for all other riding conditions. You can ride with most goggles on warmer days while the KwikWick® II liner keeps you dry and comfortable all day.
6. Schuberth E1 Adventure: Best Quietest
| Specifications | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| ● Price: $599.00 ● Shape: Intermediate Oval ● Weight: 3.79 lbs. ● Size: 7 Shell Sizes (XS, SM, MD, LG, XL, XXL, 3XL) ● Certification: DOT, ECE 22.05, 3-Star SHARP Rated | ✔ Premium interior liner with a customizable fit and fewer seams ✔ Enhanced face shield ratchet mechanism for a tighter seal ✔ Directionally stable ✔ Spoiler baked into the shell | ✘ No rear spoiler for goggles strap to grab onto ✘ Heavier than other options |
Next, I’ve the Schuberth E1, the quietest adventure helmet rated at 82dB, from the legendary German maker, that provides the comfort and versatility of a flip-up, the safety of a Schuberth, and the look and feel of an ultra-modern adventure touring helmet.
Schuberth invested in their Anti-Roll-Off System (A.R.O.S) to keep the helmet in place as long as the chinstrap is closed, and you probably should, too. You also get removable and washable Coolmax pads and inner lining, which helps you keep the lid clean and adventure-ready even at a roadside stopover.
The E1 is also a smart helmet with a built-in antenna for their proprietary SRC System Pro, developed by Cardo. This advanced piece of technology serves as an intercom with your fellow riders and connects with GPS units, MP3 players, or phones to find your way and not get bored when crossing long distances in between the action.
Like most helmets on the list, the E1 has a removable peak and face shield, leaving me with what is essentially a Schuberth C3 Pro). I can use it in multiple configurations that best suit my surroundings. You also get a larger chin air intake with the E1, but the new Schuberth E2, its successor, goes a step further by incorporating a double chin air intake for enhanced ventilation.
Schuberth claims to have spent the bulk of their R&D time and resources in the wind tunnel department, and the results are self-evident when I ride above 50 mph wearing the new E1. It’s exceptionally quiet and smooth, allowing me to concentrate on the road (or no road) ahead.
But one slight concern I have with the E1 is that its visor tends to catch some wind. This becomes noticeable when riding my Kawasaki KLX 250 in Vietnam and Kawasaki Z 250 SL in Thailand, as they don’t have windscreens to help with wind diversion. But you can easily remove the visor for street riding or balance it by adding something like Dynamat or similar material for stability or weight.
7. Shoei Hornet X2: Best Touring
| Specifications | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| ● Price: $639.99-649.99 ● Shape: Intermediate Oval ● Weight: 3.92 lbs. ● Size: 4 Shell Sizes (XS-S, M, L, XL-2XL) ● Certifications: SNELL 2015, SNELL M2020D, DOT | ✔ Wider and taller visor with aerodynamic stability ✔ Bluetooth comms with speaker storage ✔ Pinlock feature for the first time ✔ All-road, all-weather use with comfort features | ✘ 7 ounces heavier than the Hornet DS ✘ Front loaded bias |
By releasing the Hornet X2, Shoei did not reinvent the helmet to strike that perfect balance between on-and-off-road form and function, as they already had the Hornet DS in play. With this release, Shoei redesigned the UV-blocking CNS-2 visor into more of a square for wider and taller vision while maintaining aerodynamic stability by reducing lift and drag.
But perhaps the biggest upgrade tech-wise from the DS is that you now have the ability to tune it for Bluetooth comms. The flat panel on the sides gives a nice sticky mounting patch, but Shoei actually made a cutaway on the inside to store the speakers.
The new Hornet is also refined with improved ventilation performance with 4 air intakes at the front, 10 internal vents to circulate air on the inside, and 7 exhaust vents at the rear.
If you plan to spend a great deal of time on the saddle, the Shoei Hornet X2, the first Shoei helmet that I’ve seen with a pin-lock, gives you that quieter high-speed highway ride and comfort features for multi-season adventure touring. It’s a true all-road, all-weather helmet that doesn’t want to tear your head off.
I’ve owned both the Shoei Hornet X2 and the Schuberth E1 Adventure. I paid $639.99 for the Shoei and $599.00 for the E1, putting them effectively in the same price range. The build quality of both helmets is excellent, but I personally believe that the Shoei comes out on top for touring. In terms of the space between my mouth and the helmet, both the Shoei and the E1 offer more room compared to the Shoei GT-Air.
The E1 fits me well, and I particularly appreciate its modular feature and the presence of a lightly tinted internal sun visor. The Shoei, on the other hand, lacks an internal sun visor but provides support for goggles.
More on How to Choose A Dual Sport Helmet
Choosing the right dual sport helmet with Bluetooth connectivity involves considering various factors to ensure it meets your specific needs and preferences. Let’s break down these factors in more detail:
- Shell Material: Consider the shell material based on your preferences for weight, durability, and protection. Materials like fiberglass, carbon fiber, and polycarbonate are commonly used, each offering a different balance of strength and weight.
- Safety Certifications: Ensure the helmet meets safety standards. Look for certifications such as DOT (Department of Transportation) or ECE (Economic Commission for Europe) to ensure that the helmet has undergone rigorous testing and meets safety requirements.
- Fit and Comfort: The fit of the helmet is crucial for comfort and safety. Try on different helmets to find one that snugly fits your head shape. Pay attention to the cheek pads, helmet liner, and overall feel. Look for helmets with adjustable padding and a secure strap system.
- Ventilation: Assess the helmet’s ventilation system. Dual sport riding can be physically demanding, and good airflow is essential to keep you cool. Look for helmets with adjustable vents that can be opened or closed based on the riding conditions.
- Visor and Goggle Compatibility: Check the visor design and its adjustability. A removable visor is common in dual sport helmets, providing sun and debris protection. Ensure the visor is easily adjustable and that the helmet is compatible with goggles if you prefer them for off-road riding.
- Chin Bar Protection: Examine the chin bar for protection. It should offer adequate protection for off-road riding while maintaining aerodynamics for on-road use. Ensure it provides the necessary safety features without compromising comfort.
- Weight: Consider the weight of the helmet. While you want a lightweight helmet for comfort during long rides, ensure that it still provides sufficient protection. Striking a balance between weight and protection is important.
- Bluetooth Integration: Some helmets come with integrated Bluetooth systems, while others have designated spaces for aftermarket Bluetooth devices. Decide whether you prefer an integrated system or if you want the flexibility to choose your own Bluetooth communicator.
- Battery Life and Charging: If the helmet comes with a built-in Bluetooth system, check the battery life and charging options. Look for systems with long battery life to ensure that your communication device lasts throughout your rides.
- Controls and Ease of Use: Consider the controls of the Bluetooth system. They should be easily accessible and user-friendly, even with gloves on. Check if the system supports voice commands for hands-free operation.
- Range and Connectivity: Consider the Bluetooth range and connectivity options. A longer range allows for better communication, especially in group rides. Bluetooth 4.0 and above are common standards for motorcycle helmet communication systems.
- Noise Reduction: Evaluate the helmet’s noise reduction features. Look for helmets designed to minimize wind noise, which can contribute significantly to rider comfort on the highway.
- Style and Aesthetics: While safety and functionality are paramount, consider your personal style preferences. Choose a helmet that not only meets your technical requirements but also aligns with your aesthetic preferences.
- Budget: Set a budget for your helmet purchase. While it’s important to invest in a quality helmet for safety, there are options available at different price points. Find a balance between affordability and the features you need.
By carefully considering these factors, you can narrow down your options and choose a dual sport helmet with Bluetooth that suits your riding style, provides the necessary safety and connectivity features, and enhances your overall riding experience.
Michael’s Summary and Conclusion
Let’s go back to the drawing board. You’ve bought that go-anywhere bike and want a helmet to match. But that would be the wrong reason to get a dual sport helmet! Believe it or not, I wouldn’t recommend it to every rider.
You’ll need to evaluate your abilities and riding needs (what you can and intend to do with your bike) to determine if you belong to the small group of riders that should get one of the seven helmets I’ve reviewed above.
Not to rain on your parade, but a dual sport helmet is highly specialized protective gear that’s unlikely to satisfy your daily riding requirements. Again, it’s a matter of personal preference and what your style of riding entails. I would recommend a dual sport helmet to someone who has the means to get multiple helmets for various riding styles and bikes, rather than as a do-it-all helmet for all seasons.
I certainly don’t want to keep phase-shifting my helmet every time I hit the tarmac, and even if I do, I’ll almost certainly lose the peak, shield, or screws down the road. It also defies logic because the helmet is still heavier than my street helmet, and that excess weight adds up over time and distance, becoming unbearable.
And the elongated chin bar and peak will feel awkward as you glance sideways to check lanes in traffic. I encourage you to read about my own experience of using an MX-style Motocross dirt bike helmet on the road for street riding.
That being said, dual sport helmets are much better than half (½) and open-face (jet) ones in terms of coverage and protection for your face. The chin is the most common area of impact (19.4%) during crashes, and dual sport helmets do a great job of mitigating that force, reducing the risk of head and brain injury by 65% to 88%, and facial injury to the upper and mid-face by 65%.
Let’s not forget the sleek and professional look that is sure to turn heads!
 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! |
FAQs — I Have the Answers!
Q: What Is the Best Bluetooth Dual Sport Helmet?
Priced at $714.95, the AGV AX9 is the best Bluetooth dual sport helmet in the world today due to its advanced aerodynamics and versatility. Of course, it would be unlike AGV to refuse you an opportunity to convert your lid into a smart hands-free remote for your navigation and infotainment system with a comms unit. And so, the AX9 includes cutouts for Bluetooth speakers.
Q: What Is the Lightest Modular Dual Sport Helmet?
Weighing in at 3.77 lbs., the Scorpion Exo-AT950 is the lightest modular dual sport helmet, thanks to its polycarbonate shell that not only provides a lightweight construction but also adds an aggressive style to its design. This is further complemented by its flip-up feature, which is enhanced with the helmet’s Ellip-Tec™ Ratchet System, ensuring a secure shield seal and allowing for tool-less disassembly, making it the ideal choice for both on- and off-road riding.
Q: What Is the Lightest Adventure and Dual Sport Helmet?
At a mere 3.1 lbs. (1,406 grams), the Klim Krios Pro is the lightest adventure and dual sport helmet available today. This remarkable feat is attributed to its full carbon fiber shell and the integration of Koroyd® impact-absorbing technology.
Q: What Is the Best Bluetooth Headset for Motorcycle Helmet?
Priced at $350.95, the Cardo Packtalk Edge is the best Bluetooth headset for motorcycle helmets. With its user-friendly universal air-mount system (the only Bluetooth/mesh headset on the market today with this feature), you can effortlessly fit it onto almost any helmet.
Q: What Is the Benefit of a Bluetooth Helmet?
A Bluetooth helmet allows you to stay connected with other riders, take calls, and receive turn-by-turn navigation prompts, enhancing your communication and convenience while on the road.
Q: What Helmet Has a Camera and Bluetooth Built-In?
The Sena Momentum Pro Smart motorcycle helmet has Bluetooth 4.1 and an integrated Quad HD action camera capable of recording at 30FPS in FULL HD and 60FPS, with a looping video recording time of 2 hours. It also offers WiFi functionality, enabling you to instantly preview and download footage on your smartphone.
Information for this article was partially sourced and researched from the following authoritative government, educational, corporate, and non-profit organizations:
- National Institutes of Health | The National Center for Biotechnology Information
- Smarter USA Org | Skilled Motorcyclist Association
- European Commission
- AGV Helmets
- Shoei Helmets
- Arai Helmets
Ni/A
