No doubt about it – when it comes to motorcycle safety, a helmet is a must-have. Actually, it’s non-negotiable. In the unfortunate event of an accident, wearing a DOT, ECE, SNELL, FIM, or SHARP-approved helmet significantly reduces the risk of head injury by up to 85%, brain injury by 88%, and severe brain injury by a minimum of 75%. But with a wide variety of helmet options tailored to street bike riders, each offering unique features and functionalities, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming.
Price is a significant consideration, especially considering premium models with price tags ranging from $800 to $2,000. But budget-conscious riders need not despair. I’ve curated a list of the best motorcycle helmets for under $300, drawing on my extensive experience and expertise as both an avid rider and industry leader for nearly 50 years. Here are today’s top picks:
| Helmet Model | Check & Shop Now |
| AGV K1 S | RevZilla | Amazon |
| Sedici Strada 3 | RevZilla | CycleGear |
| Fox Racing V1 | RevZilla | Amazon |
| Icon Airflite | RevZilla | CycleGear |
| LS2 Valiant | RevZilla | Amazon |
| HJC i10 | RevZilla | Amazon |
| Bell Qualifier DLX | RevZilla | Amazon |
| AGV K3 | RevZilla | Amazon |
| Bell MX-9 Mips | RevZilla | Amazon |
| Scorpion EXO Covert X | RevZilla | Amazon |
| HJC i91 | RevZilla | Amazon |
| Scorpion EXO-R420 | RevZilla | Amazon |
More on these in just a moment, but before I do, allow me to explain the criteria that led me to these selections.
Key Factors When Buying the Best Motorcycle Helmet
Across all riding styles, my preference firmly aligns with full-face helmets over open-face and half options. Their added protective elements, including chin bar and face shield, significantly lower the risk of facial injury by 65% for the upper and mid-facial regions, and reduce the risk of chin injury by 51%. I extensively delved into these features and their influence on my choices in my article ‘Top 5 Best Full Face Helmets Under $500.’ And here’s that extra tidbit:
Material Diversity’s Role in Price Determination
When it comes to the major players in helmet manufacturing, I particularly appreciate AGV’s comprehensive approach. They cater to riders of all levels, from beginners to professionals, by incorporating a wide range of materials into their helmet designs, setting them apart from Arai and Shoei.
Within the budget-friendly range of under $300, my 12 picks predominantly feature polycarbonate construction. It’s cost-effective but tends to be less durable compared to fiberglass or carbon fiber, making it suitable for street riding.
Carbon fiber helmets, renowned for their strength and lightweight properties, occupy the higher end of the price spectrum due to their premium quality. On the other hand, fiberglass helmets strike a balance between durability and affordability.
And for those willing to invest more, Kevlar helmets provide a combination of strength and flexibility, albeit at a higher price point. Alternatively, composite helmets blend multiple materials such as fiberglass, Kevlar, and carbon fiber, offering enhanced strength at a mid-range cost.
The Style of Helmet
I often tend to lean towards solid, glossy black helmets without any graphics – it’s just my personal preference. I find they exude a more aggressive vibe, if you will. Typically, solid colors, especially white, typically offer better visibility compared to helmets with multicolored graphics. Graphics, although eye-catching, can sometimes disrupt the helmet’s silhouette, causing it to blend into the background more.
On the flip side, Hi-Viz helmets shine brightest in low light conditions like rain, fog, dawn, and dusk. But their effectiveness dwindles under the blazing sun at noon, and they’re virtually indistinguishable from white helmets at night. Plus, there’s the fading issue, particularly noticeable in bright sunlight. It’s a no-brainer that Hi-Viz helmets will lose their vibrancy over time.
The secret to Hi-Viz’s brightness lies in its green/yellow color, which is transparent, This allows the white base coat to reflect through, amplifying its luminosity.
Sun Protection
At times, wearing sunglasses inside my helmet can be uncomfortable, and the hassle of switching between a tinted and clear face shield daily isn’t convenient. For the best UV-ray protection, opt for a helmet that features a drop-down sun visor, easily deployable with the press of a button.
And for even greater comfort, consider investing in a photochromic face shield (sold separately) that darkens in sunlight and reverts to clear when in shade.
Top 12 Best Motorcycle Helmets for Under $300
1. AGV K1 S
AGV K1 S is one of the most popular motorcycle helmets made of the ABS shell, rated among the 12 bests. The helmet comes with a Double-D ring fastener, which makes it popular as it does not slip while you are riding. The helmets have been reviewed, tried, and tested, making them a better solution for you when looking for a perfect fit while riding.
It also offers decent comfort and is lighter compared to other helmets. These features make it safer and even more popular, and you can confirm this through the reviews given by people especially focusing on the ease it has given people in the riding, even though it may take time for you to get used to it.
The glass-friendly and quiet interior is enough to convince you to use it, especially if you enjoy the thrill of speed. Being on the top-rated helmet assures you of good results and smooth rides. It improves the experience of riders across the country and the overwhelmingly positive reviews, which gives new and interesting riders confidence in using the AGV K1 motorcycle helmet. This helmet can fit a wide range of riders but especially street road helmets.
2. Sedici Strada 3
Sedici Strada is among the best motorcycle helmets people choose. It is one of the helmets that may come in handy for you with full face coverage and other features such as protection and comfort. The shell is fitted with fiberglass and Kevlar making it lightweight and offering strength. It is fitted in varied sizes and with other EPS liners, improving the fit and appearance. This is another go-to helmet by most street riders for these features.
Safety is paramount for you when choosing a certain helmet; therefore, Sedici Strada 3 can come in handy to provide you with great protection gear while on the street and the presence of varied sizes to improve your fitness.
It also offers a pin lock-ready face shield with a drop-down internal sun visor, thus improving your whole experience while riding and protecting your eyes. Additional features like a fully integrated Bluetooth system make you comfortable while riding. It has an effective ventilation system that is easy to adjust and adds comfort for you as you ride. Sedici Strada II is a better option, with the best features and good experience.
3. Fox Racing V1
For those tight on the budget, Fox Racing V1 may be the one for you. These helmets’ prices start from $190 but offer good protection compared to other helmets. The price is highly convenient for many individuals and can be your best choice, especially if this is the first time. The make uses a sleek Polycarb/ABS shell, which is essential for strength and protection, and comes in varied sizes.
The helmet does not weigh that much either, thus, it is very convenient for use at the same time. This makes it easy and comfortable for you to use and travel without any strain. Though commonly used for sports, they can be used as street helmets.
The V1 is also fitted with an easily removable interior that can be cleaned separately, thus making it easy for you to manage. It becomes a suitable package for you while looking for a good helmet and if you are a beginner. The helmet also has a magnetic release system that helps when you tumble by popping off, protecting you, and preventing harm. These are essential features you can consider while looking for your gear, and thus consider the Fox Racing V1.
4. Icon Airflite
The material used to make it is a polycarbonate shell, which makes it safe for street riders and can be used in different setups. It consists of multi-functional features which give it the advantage of being used in different setups, creating a safe and reliable choice for a motorcycle helmet. While riding, the interior helps it keep noise to a minimum, making sure you enjoy a smooth ride.
The helmet has an integrated visor that prevents harsh light; thus, you are not required to wear sunglasses while riding. These features help create a conducive environment for you to experience smooth riding.
One common advantage over other brands of helmets is that it fits the different events it can be in. It serves the same purpose while on the street and off-road, thus making it one of the best-rated motorcycle helmets and creating a safe environment even for riders.
The Icon Airflite makes it affordable for you when considering an all-rounded helmet, and other features added to it make it recommendable for everyone. The brand focuses on giving you a comfortable fit for various environments making it an effective street helmet.
You May Also Like: What Are the Safety Benefits of Full-Face Motorcycle Helmets?
5. LS2 Valiant
LS2 is a full-face helmet accredited to having met safety certifications under the FMVSS 218 standards. The helmet has been considered the best quiet helmet and rated among the 12 best helmets under $300. It is made of a high-pressure thermoplastic technology shell, forming a protective stance for you as a rider. It contains a quick-release buckle that comes in handy for adjusting. The helmet has an integrated drop-down visor which also provides a shield from light. These features offer a better riding experience.
The helmet is one of the most affordable, priced at $119. This creates effective pricing that one may purchase when they need a helmet within a budget. Customers who have used it have highly recommended it, especially providing convenient methods to buckle and quiet when on the road.
The full-face stream street helmet is also light making it fit for street riding as it is always comfortable for riding. It possesses impressive qualities for you as a rider that enhance your riding comfort. It also creates better ground for you to save on money from other brands due to its affordability.
6. HJC i10
This full-face motorcycle helmet is one of the most affordable helmets. It is lightweight, meaning it does not bother the rider with the weight. The HJC proves that an economical choice does not mean bad quality with the polycarbonate shell that offers protection to you while riding. Thus, offering affordability to customers and safety assures it as a good brand for you. The interior and outer shell have been fitting in a considerate way in which full ventilation can be achieved while you are riding.
The adjustable forehead, chin vents, and two rear exhaust vents achieve the full front-to-back airflow system. Thus, ventilation is made possible through the same and effective for you while riding. It also contains a quick-release visor, which may come in handy while riding.
The quality offered by HJC is impressive as it offers sustainable options for you as a rider and prioritizes the rider’s safety. Therefore, HJC is a viable option for a good helmet under $300. Its features as a full-face helmet are better and can offer durability, making it even better in offering a comfortable ride.
7. Bell Qualifier DLX
The Bell Qualifier is a full-coverage helmet made from a lightweight polycarbonate shell, making it comfortable while riding. It is suitable for street commutes as it offers the utmost comfort while riding. One of the best features of the Bell Qualifier is its adjustable ventilation system that offers a cooling and comfort system while riding. This offers you less trouble adjusting or removing the whole helmet on the road. It, however, does not offer a quiet ride and is thus suitable for street rides and short commutes.
The Bell Qualifier also offers comfortability due to the contoured cheek pads, which also have a padded chin strap that helps fasten. The helmet also has effective transitions face shield, which customers have positively reviewed. It offers an efficient choice when you want a simple helmet to use in your day-to-day activities.
The features are suitable especially in ensuring safety and comfort and thus help you have an easy time riding around an area. A cool and comfortable interior contributes to its popularity and is why many people may prefer it because of its effect while riding.
8. AGV K3
The AGV brand leads in making one of the most reliable helmets. It has gained popularity over the years with the advancement and introduction of new features to suit the different needs and offer comfortability to riders while on the road. The K3 is almost identical to the AGV K1, offering almost matching similarities in their production and use.
The K3 has an integrated sun visor, making it easier for riders to use while riding. However, the K1 does not possess the features making it less preferred.
The AGV is a re-known brand; thus, by choosing the AGV K3, you are assured of quality, and with the features and budget-friendliness, you are sure to have a good helmet. Users have often left positive reviews, which only encourages you to try it out.
9. Bell MX-9 Mips
Bell MX-9 Mips is one of the helmets you are sure to use due to its sturdiness, one you can use and abuse. It is well known to offer a great advantage for adventure and comfort. It is made of a polycarbonate shell which makes it lightweight to help create comfort for you. It contains three shell/EPS sizes, thus meaning it can be fit for different people and a range of options for you. It is a choice that is efficient to always create and bring the full effect of the road experience.
It also includes a removable peak, which increases stability along the highway. This creates balance and enables you to move with ease. The helmet also has a wide viewport that lets you wear goggles comfortably without removing the shield. The budget for a Bell MX-9 Adventure is very accommodating and can help you plan for an easy and manageable money decision for your gear.
The helmet ranges from $230 to $260, slightly under $300, and thus manageable. Bell MX is an excellent choice for your street rides and can offer the required comfort.
10. Scorpion EXO Covert X
The Scorpion EXO Covert X is a convertible helmet that has had a popular and tremendous effect on its purchasing and use. This helmet has unique and impressive features that help move you as a rider while on the road and while stopping. The eye port is suited wide to accommodate a wider peripheral vision and downward visibility, giving you less trouble while riding.
The internal sun visor and KwikWick liner ensure you are comfortable all day while riding in different lighting conditions, offering you the comfort needed to have a smooth ride without interference. Such features are essential to creating comfortable rides.
It also has a no-fog ever clear face shield, which can come in handy with different weather conditions. The Covert X is a commendable fit to help you with the various features supporting it, and as both a full face and an open face, it contains reliable components that will have you choosing it. These are essential, especially considering the prices that they come in.
Pricing is crucial as it helps you choose and save, and Polycarbonate shells give protective and strong characters that make them durable for you. The varied sizes also help implement and create better customer purchasing power.
11. HJC i91
The upgraded HJC i91 builds upon the success of its predecessor, the iconic HJC i90, which itself followed the footsteps of the highly popular HJC IS-Max II. One notable enhancement is the internal sunshield, now adjustable up to 10mm from your face, offering enhanced UV protection and a more comfortable ride.
Beyond this, the i91 features a flip-up design approved for use in both open and closed positions, a Pinlock anti-fog layer for the visor, a chin curtain, speaker, and glasses cutouts in the liner, effective vents, and stylish paint options, all priced at under $300.
And while it’s difficult to discern construction materials from appearance alone, the i90’s build quality belies its actual composition. Weighing in at 1,700g (size small), it’s not significantly heavier than its higher-end counterpart, the carbon/aramid-shelled HJC RHPA 90S, with just a 150g difference between them. Comparatively, it’s not the lightest in its class; helmets like the similarly priced Caberg Duke II and Shark Evo ES are approximately 50g lighter.
Of course, all of these options are heavier than an equivalent-sized full-face helmet, such as my old polycarbonate Shark Skwal, which weighs in at 1,400g (size small). But the slight weight difference hasn’t notably affected my comfort. The relatively light feel can be attributed to its compact size, which matches that of the full-faced Shark Skwal when compared side by side.
HJC achieves this through the use of three different shell sizes (one shell used for XS and S, another for M and L, and another for XL – XXXL) for the i90, ensuring a better fit for most individuals.
12. Scorpion EXO-R420
The EXO-R420 is another full-coverage helmet that is among the affordable helmets that you can get for under $300. The helmet has features close to EXO-AT950 that have propelled its popularity. The features are also similar and are a reasonable option for anyone who needs a strong motorcycle helmet to work around.
The EXO-R420 offers these features and more comfort by providing quieter rides, which are essential in creating effective and smoother rides for people all over. The Scorpion EXO-R420 is also reasonably priced at $164 to make it affordable and thus accessible to you.
Michael’s Summary and Conclusion
Advanced features with these helmets exemplify what affordability should be even with creating quality. The helmets highlighted above have been on the forefront to give you better opportunities and options. The under $300 helmets prove that they do not affect the quality, and as seen from the various reviews provided by customers, they are reliable, and thus, you do not need to break your bank to have your desired motorcycle gear.
Apart from being pocket-friendly and reliable, the helmets show how easy it is to have and access decent gear. The helmets can be found on Amazon and other online stores, so it should not be hard for you to access them.
 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, educational, corporate, and non-profit organizations:
- United Nations Economic Commission for Europe
- Centers of Disease Control and Prevention
- Advocates for Highway & Auto Safety
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