The ideal weight for a motorcycle helmet varies depending on its style and the materials from which it is made. A typical full-face helmet weighs between 1400 and 1800 grams, which is equivalent to 3 to 4 pounds. For example, the AGV Pista GP-RR full-face helmet, with its carbon fiber shell, weighs only 1,450 grams or 3.2 pounds. On the other hand, the AGV AX9 adventure touring helmet in carbon fiber comes in at only 1,290 grams or 2.85 pounds.
The reason for this variation lies in the type of shell used. A helmet with a thermoplastic shell generally weighs more than a similar model with a fiber composite shell. Additionally, flip-up or modular helmets are typically the heaviest among all styles of motorcycle helmets due to the mechanism involved in making the chin bar flip up.
However, there is an exception to this rule, as the AGV Sportmodular Carbon helmet weighs a mere 1,295 grams or 2.85 pounds. Open-face or ¾-style helmets range between 900 grams to 1,350 grams, which is equivalent to 2 to 3 pounds, while half helmets can weigh as little as 740 grams or 1.6 pounds.
| Helmet Model | Category | Shell Sizes | Get Yours |
|---|---|---|---|
| AGV K1 S | Best Sport/Racing | 2: XS-MS, ML-XXL | RevZilla | MotoSport | Amazon |
| KYPARA | Best Cruiser/ATV | 2: XSMD, XL-3XL | Amazon |
| Yema | Best Street/Urban | 2: XS-MD, LG-3XL | Amazon |
| Torc Modular | Best Cruiser/Touring | 3: XS/S, M/L, XL/2XL. | Amazon |
| ILM Z501 | Best Dual Sport/Street | 2: XS-MS, ML-XXL | Amazon |
| Bell Qualifier | Best Urban/Commuter | 3: XS/S, M/L, XL/2XL. | RevZilla | MotoSport | Amazon |
| Scorpion EXO-R420 | Best Sport/Touring | 2: XS-MD, LG-3XL | RevZilla | CycleGear | Amazon |
| Icon Airform | Most Versatile | 3: XS-SM, MD-LG, XL-3XL | RevZilla | MotoSport | CycleGear |
| Sedici Strada II | Best Bluetooth-Enabled | 2: XS-MD, LG-3XL | RevZilla | CycleGear | J&P Cycles |
Is 3 Pounds Heavy for a Helmet? Is 1.6 kg Heavy for a Helmet?
The weight of a motorcycle helmet varies based on its style. Full-face helmets typically weigh around three pounds, open-face or ¾ helmets are approximately 3.5 pounds, and half helmets are considered lighter at two pounds. In modern designs, motorcycle helmets generally weigh around 1.6 kilograms or approximately 3.5 pounds. These specifications adhere to industry standards, ensuring both comfort and safety for riders.
Should Helmets Be Heavy? Weight for a Motorcycle Helmet
A motorcycle helmet does not have to be heavy. A heavy helmet can be uncomfortable to wear and cause pain to the neck and head. Even full-face helmets made with composite shells off fiberglass, Carbon fiber or Kevlar can weigh as little 3.2 pounds or 1450 grams.
How Much Does Each Type of Motorcycle Helmet Weigh?
Half helmets are the lightest. They cover only the top of the head and can weigh less than 2 pounds or 900 grams. They provide the least protection of all styles of helmets and may not be legal in some countries.
Open-face helmets also known as ¾, or Jet style helmets are the second lightest style. Open-face helmets can weigh as little as 3 pounds. Open-face offers greater protection by providing coverage for the whole head except for the facial area.
Full-face helmets, also known as full coverage or integral helmets, provide the highest level of protection and safety. They provide extensive coverage of the entire head including the facial area with their fixed chin bar. They typically weigh between 3 and 4 pounds 1400 to 1,800 grams.
Modular or flip-up style helmets are the heaviest. They can provide the protection of a full-coverage helmet with the option of open-face exposure by flipping up the frontal piece. This design requires a complex internal hinge mechanism which adds a significant amount of weight. Modular helmets can weigh over 4 pounds or 1800 grams.
 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:
MS/M
