Best Motorcycle Helmets Under $300 [Expert Reviews]

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I did research on “budget for motorcycle helmet” and found out that 32.3% of the 7,257 motorcycle riders voted for the option – Not a penny above $300. So here’s an article where we’ve listed the 10 best road head protectors that cost less than 300 USD.

Another study I did mentioned that, people don’t replace their helmets for 4-5 years and ride at least 15,000 miles in 5 years. That makes a $300 helmet cost $0.02/mile or $5/month. Isn’t that cheap compared to the level of safety it provides from damages?

Before I begin with the list, I’d like to mention that the motorcycle helmets mentioned here are expert recommendations.

Also, none of the models mentioned in this list are brand sponsored. They are listed here because of their protection level, safety ratings, certifications, performance and ability to withstand damage! But..

Helmets can protect you, but there’s no guarantee! Even the toughest helmets can fail depending on the conditions. So besides wearing a good quality motorcycle helmet, you also should also ride safe and follow the rules of the road!

1. Best Rated Under $300: Scorpion EXO-R2000 Full Face Helmet

Scorpion EXO-R2000 Adult Street Motorcycle Helmet - Hypersonic Red/Medium
  • Developed Exclusively By Scorpion, The Revolutionary TCT (Thermodynamic Composite Technology) Process Consists Of A Proprietary 5 Layer Blend Of Interlaced And Specially Formulated Fiberglass, Aramid And Organic Poly-resin Fibers.
  • To Optimize Weight, Fitment And Comfort, The R2000 Is Built With 4 Shell Sizes And 6 EPS Liners - Providing You With The Lowest Overall Profile On The Market.
  • Advanced Multi-layer EPS Provides Superior Energy Displacement.
  • Pinlock 100% Max Vision Ensures A 100% Fog Free Vision. The Anti-fog Insert Lens Is Placed In The ScorpionEXO 2D Flat Race Shield W/tear-off Posts, Providing Maximum Visibility (optional Accessory).
  • DOT Approved. Meets The FMVSS 218 Standard
  • Brand: Scorpion
  • Weight: 4.9 pounds
  • Product dimension: 15*12*12 inches
  • Size: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
  • Safety assurance: DOT certified

The Scorpion EXO-R2000 is one of the best motorcycle helmets under $300 that you can currently get in the market. It is made of four shell sizes to make it fit perfectly. Not only that, the helmet has six EPS liners, which can be removed and washed. The cheek pads are cushiony and feel comfortable.

Moreover, it is a full-face helmet, which means that one can remain assured that they are protected. The company states that the shield would provide the users a 100% fog-free vision as it has an Anti-fog lens in the helmet.

There are other shield options, too, which can be bought separately, like the Scorpion EXO 2D Flat race shield, which can provide maximum vision. The helmet is available in a variety of colors and even has some graphics integrated on the exterior of the helmet. 

The helmet offers Thermodynamic composite technology, which mixes up five layers of formulated fiberglass, Aramid, and Organic Poly-resin fibers. This makes the helmet light in weight and also tough at the same time. The helmet has an excellent ventilation process, thanks to the aerodynamic teardrop shell design. Not only that, the EllipTech ratchet lock system ensures that the helmet is sealed perfectly and won’t come off when the speed increases.

Pros

Pros
  • Excellent ventilation system
  • Stylish in appearance
  • Light in weight
  • Thermodynamic Composite technology
  • Anti-fog visor

Cons

Cons
  • The colors can appear different in reality
  • Due to reduced manufacturing, it is harder to find in the market

2. Best Runner Up: Bell Bullitt Full Face Motorcycle Helmet

Bell Bullitt Full-Face Motorcycle Helmet (Solid Gloss Black, Large)
  • 3 low-profile carbon composite shells and EPS sizes that are DOT certified and backed with an industry-leading five-year warranty
  • Contoured cheek pads with integrated speaker pockets, genuine leather, removable/washable interior
  • Sold with Clear Flat Shield installed
  • Front chin vents with metal mesh intake and exhaust vents
  • DOT approved. Meets the FMVSS 218 Standard
  • Brand: Bell
  • Weight: 3.5 pounds
  • Size: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
  • Product dimension: 1*1*1 inches
  • Safety assurance: DOT certified.

Want a classic helmet that looks stylish but at the price point below $300?

The Bell Bullitt full-face motorcycle helmet is the perfect example of a classic helmet that can go with any motorcycle and would yet look stylish. It is made of carbon fiber shell and is quite light in weight comparatively.

The interior of the helmet integrates leather, which can be removed and washed without any problem. Another interesting thing is that the interior is said to be anti-bacterial, which means that even if the helmet gets all sweaty, you won’t get any rashes or itching problems due to that. 

The helmet comes with a clear shield, though you can always go for other types of shields like the colorful ones or the smoke preventing shields. It is made of 3 shells and EPS liners, thus ensuring a perfect fit for the user. It has vents on the front chin side, which can exhaust hot air and allow cool or fresh air into the helmet. The helmet even comes with even customizable speaker pouches. 

You can design the helmet according to your choice. As the helmet mostly comes in bold colors, you can always use some more colors and add some graphics to it, to make it more stylish.

Pros

Pros
  • Good ventilation
  • Carbon Fibers for durability and lightweight
  • Easy to wash and clean
  • Anti-bacterial properties for hygiene
  • The face shield can be changed easily

Cons

Cons
  • Harder to fight accurate fitting
  • It does not cancel out wind noise

3. Best Budget Carbon Fiber Helmet: SEDICI Strada Full Face

Sedici Strada Carbon Fiber Drop Down Sun Shield Visor Vented DOT Sport Bike Street Motorcycle Full Face Helmet - Black MD
  • Carbon fiber and KEVLAR construction is lightweight and strong
  • Quick release anti-fog and anti-scratch polycarbonate outer faceshield with an easy to use drop-down inner sun shield
  • Surface mounted chin and crown vents with an aerodynamic exhaust enhances airflow
  • Removable and washable anti-bacterial multi density liner with a 5mm adjustable fitting
  • Meets or exceeds DOT and ECE standards
  • Brand: SEDICI
  • Weight: 1 pound
  • Size: S, M, L
  • Product dimension: depends on the size chosen
  • Safety assurance: DOT certified

Besides being lightweight, The best carbon Fiber motorcycle helmets are quite costly. Want a good-quality one that doesn’t cost a penny more than $300? The SEDICI Strada is the one you are looking for!

The SEDICI Strada helmet is a product of carbon fiber shell, which makes the helmet crash-proof. Though it is one of the toughest helmets, it is quite light as compared to others.

With the weight of only one pound, the SEDICI branded helmet comes with surface ventilation, which means that the air vents are placed on top of the helmet, thus letting the airflow much easier. Not only is the helmet is good in ventilation, but it is also even anti-fog, scratch-resistant, and can even protect from harmful UV rays.

The outer face shield consists of Polycarbonate, which makes the shield anti-fog. There is also an option for the rider to remove or replace the shield with other modules. The inner lining of the helmet is comfortable and easily removable according to the rider’s requirement. These linings are anti-bacterial and easily washable. Even the cheek pads can be adjusted according to the user’s choice, thus allowing for some customization.

Pros

Pros
  • Robust and Cash Proof
  • Anti-fog and scratch resistant
  • Would protect from harmful UV rays
  • Anti-bacterial and washable
  • Easy airflow for ventilation

Cons

Cons
  • Installation of the shield is difficult
  • Wind noise cancellation is not there

4. Best Bluetooth Helmet under $300: HJC SY-Max III Motorcycle Helmet

HJC SY-MAXBT III Bluetooth Modular Motorcycle Helmet (White, X-Large)
  • Advanced Fiberglass Spectra Composite Weave Shell with Injection Molded Lightweight Polycarbonate Chin bar - Single-Button One Handed Chin Bar/Face Shield Release - Superior Fit and Comfort Using Advanced CAD Technology
  • ACS Advanced Channeling Ventilation System - Full Front to Back Airflow Flushes Heat and Humidity Up and Out
  • One Touch Integrated Smoke-tinted SunShield Deploys Quickly and Easily (HJ- V5) Patent Pending - Three Stage Multiple Positions with Locking Mechanism
  • Bluetooth Ready with Integrated Recess and Interior Speaker Cavities (Bluetooth unit sold separately)
  • Optically Superior Pinlock Faceshield Provides 95 percent U.V. Protection (HJ-17 ) Pinlock Insert Sold Separately
  • Brand: HJC Helmets
  • Weight: 4 pounds
  • Size: S, M, L
  • Product dimension: 15*11*11 inches
  • Safety assurance: DOT certified

Do you want a motorcycle helmet that comes with bluetooth speakers integrated yet doesn’t cost a dollar above $300? The HJC SY-Max III should be your best choice!

The HJC SY-Max III motorcycle helmet is a product of an advanced fiberglass shell with polycarbonate, which not only makes the helmet tough but even light in weight.

It even features a one-handed face shield release, so that the user can operate the helmet without any difficulty. The triple lock mechanism makes sure that the helmet is securely sealed around the user and that it won’t come off even when the speed is high. It also comes with Bluetooth speakers, with which the user can connect to the smartphone and can take calls, listen to music, and even use GPS navigation easily. 

Along with that, the helmet even has an ACS ventilation system that allows airflow from back to front, thus ensuring the user that the helmet won’t get sweaty. The HJC helmet even has other shield options like UV protection shield and tinted shield. Its shield with which the helmet comes is a smoke-tinted shield that can be easily removed and changed.

Pros

Pros
  • Excellent locking mechanism with triple lock
  • Comes with Bluetooth speakers option
  • One-handed face shield release
  • UV Protection shield and tinted shield
  • Easy installation of shields

Cons

Cons
  • Ventilation is not that good

5. Best Durability and High Safety: Bell Qualifier DLX full face motorcycle helmet

BELL Qualifier DLX Full-Face Helmet Isle of Man 17.0 Gloss Black/Red Large
  • Lightweight polycarbonate/ABS shell construction with removable/Washable interior, padded wind collar drastically reduces wind and road noise
  • Helmet no longer includes an integrated communications port for Sena or Cardo Bluetooth stereo communications.
  • Velocity Flow Ventilation system with FlowAdjust
  • Transitions Adaptive ClickRelease shield
  • DOT approved. Meets the FMVSS 218 Standard
  • Brand: Bell
  • Weight: 3.5 pounds
  • Size: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
  • Product dimension: 15*12*11 inches
  • Safety assurance: DOT certified

The Bell Qualifier DLX is ranked #1 in our lists of top-rated motorcycle helmets. It also makes it here because it doesn’t cost much!

The Bell Qualifier DLX helmet is quite light in weight, thanks to the polycarbonate used. Along with that, the helmet has adjustable ventilation, which means the user can control the vents easily, for letting the airflow.

Its integration of padded wind collar at the back prevents wind noise and traffic noise, thus allowing the rider a quite pleasant ride. 

The moisture-wicking feature prevents the helmet from getting sweaty and smelly. Its interiors are comfortable and easy to wash. There are eleven elegant color themes available for the helmet, and it also offers options for customization to the users. The shield options which the user can buy are tinted, anti-fog, UV protection, and smoke prevention shield. 

Apart from that, the helmet even comes with communication ports, thus allowing the user to connect the helmet with the communication port and enjoy the ride even when on call.

Pros

Pros
  • Thoroughly washable for cleanliness
  • Moisture-wicking interior 
  • Has a variety of colors to choose from
  • Different shield options according to user’s requirement
  • Communication port for connectivity

Cons

Cons
  • Ventilation may get blockage due to communication port
  • The lock is not grip-friendly with gloves on

6. Best From Shoei: Shoei RF-1200 full-face motorcycle helmet

  • Brand: Shoei
  • Weight: 1.6 ounces
  • Size: M, L
  • Product dimension: 14.5*11*11.5 inches
  • Safety assurance: DOT certified

The Shoei RF-1200 full-face motorcycle helmet is the most stylish in the market. With weighing only 1.6 ounces, this helmet is perfect for racers and is quite tough too.

Shoei is a Japanese company that is known for producing the best helmet for the users. The helmets produced by Shoei are handmade and go through a tough testing phase to make sure that the helmet is crash proof and won’t come off even when the speed of the bike is quite high. 

Its tough testing phase is what makes the helmet DOT certified and a perfect motorcycle helmet. Hence, the helmet offers an ideal level of protection in case of crashes and other damage. Its interiors are comfortable and encompass an adequate level of ventilation.

Plus, the shields are easily changeable for the convenience of the rider. However, there is little room for customization, and the designs are bright and imposing. It is not great for those who love to play with the customization of their helmets.

Pros

Pros
  • Handmade by Japanese pioneers
  • Bright and vibrant designs for the helmet
  • It is a perfect racing helmet
  • Tough and crash-proof
  • DOT Certified for optimal protection

Cons

Cons
  • It is not easily available due to demands 
  • Not easily customizable

7. Best Value for Money: HJC CL-Max 3-full face flip-up motorcycle helmet

HJC CL-Max 3 Men's Snowmobile Helmet - Semi-Flat Black/Large
  • Advanced Polycarbonate Composite Shell with Adjustable Polycarbonate Chinbar: Lightweight, superior fit and comfort using advanced CAD technology
  • ACS (Advanced Channeling Ventilation System) provides full front to back airflow which flushes heat and humidity up and out
  • SuperCool Interior: Moisture-wicking fabric. Removable and washable liner and cheek pads
  • Optically Superior Pinlock Faceshield (HJ-17): Provides 95% U.V. Protection. QuickSlide Tool-less Shield Replacement System. (Pinlock Insert Lens sold separately)
  • DOT approved. Meets the FMVSS 218 Standard.
  • Brand: HJC helmets
  • Weight: 5.7 pounds
  • Size: M, L
  • Product dimension: 14.8*11.4*11.2 inches
  • Safety assurance: DOT certified

The HJC CL-Max 3 full-face helmet is made of advanced polycarbonate shell and has an adjustable polycarbonate chin bar. It allows the user to release the shell even with one hand.

Apart from that, the helmet can even be unlocked with one hand, even if you are wearing gloves. Its ACS advanced channeling ventilation system allows full front to back airflow, thus making it breathable inside the helmet. 

The moisture-wicking feature prevents the interiors from getting wet from all the sweat by absorbing the sweat. Its interiors are washable materials that are easy to remove for convenient cleaning. The helmet even comes with glasses in the helmet. 

Furthermore, you get tons of shield options to choose from like tinted shields, smoke prevention shields, colorful shields, and anti-fog shields. This helmet is perfect for everyday use and can even fit well in any situation.

Pros

Pros
  • Easily fits anyone
  • Adjustable chin bar
  • Multiple shields to choose from
  • Has good ventilation
  • The moisture-wicking feature prevents the helmet from becoming smelly

Cons

Cons
  • No wind noise cancellation
  • It does not have a variety of colors

8. Cheapest Under $300 Yet Strongest: Bell Qualifier

BELL Qualifier Full-Face Helmet (Gloss Blue/Yellow/White Torque - Medium)
  • Helmet shown with optional tinted shield. (Ships with clear shield only)
  • Lightweight Polycarbonate/ABS shell Construction. Padded wind collar drastically reduces wind and road noise
  • NutraFog II UV-protected shield which is a ClickRelease shield for fast, easy and tool-free shield replacement
  • Velocity Flow Ventilation system with FlowAdjust
  • DOT approved. Meets the FMVSS 218 Standard
  • Brand: Bell
  • Weight: 3.5 pounds
  • Size: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL
  • Product dimension: 15*12*11  inches
  • Safety assurance: DOT certified

With a variety of over 17 colors, the Bell Qualifier full-face helmet is not only the cheapest helmet on the list but is also the most colorful one. The helmet is designed using ABS, a lightweight polycarbonate shell.

It comes with a quick-release shield feature, which allows the user to replace the shield without any tools. Not only that, the helmet even has a decent air ventilation system, thus making the helmet breathable for the user.

The helmet also comes with a padded wind collar to remove the wind noise and allow the user to experience a quiet and pleasant ride. Its anti-bacterial liner prevents the helmet from giving rashes or itching problems to the user. The three shell and EPS designs assure a perfect fit for the users. It is easily affordable, stylish, tough, crash-proof, and has all the features that are vital for a perfect helmet. 

You can wear it anywhere, be it for daily wear or any race, and the helmet would fit everywhere.

Pros

Pros
  • Cheaper than others on the list
  • Offers fantastic fitting
  • Comes with padded wind collars to reduce wind noise
  • Has a warranty of over five years
  • Has a variety of colors available for choosing

Cons

Cons
  • Cannot cancel out noise perfectly
  • The locking mechanism is not so secure

9. Best Full Face + Flip-Up Under $300: HJC CL-MAXBIT II Motorcycle Helmet

HJC CL-MAXBT II Bluetooth Modular Motorcycle Helmet (Wine, Small)
  • Advanced Injection Molded Lightweight Polycarbonate Shell - Single-Button One Handed Chin Bar/Face Shield Release - Superior Fit and Comfort Using Advanced CAD Technology
  • Bluetooth Ready with integrated recess and interior speaker cavities
  • Optically Superior Faceshield Provides 95 percent U.V. Protection
  • QuickSlide Tool-less Shield Replacement System (HJ-17)
  • ACS Advanced Channeling Ventilation System - Full Front to Back Airflow Flushes Heat and Humidity Up and Out
  • Brand: HJC helmets.
  • Weight: 5.1 pounds
  • Size: XS
  • Product dimension: 1616*16 inches
  • Safety assurance: DOT certified

The HJC CL-MAXBIT II full face flip-up motorcycle helmet is made of advanced polycarbonate, uses Advanced CAD technology, has a one-handed shield release feature, and even comes with Bluetooth connection.

Its advanced CAD technology helps in getting the perfect fit for the users and assures that the helmet would remain secure in place. The helmet also features easy removal and installation of the shields, thus giving the users space for customizing the helmets.

There is a Bluetooth connection available in the form of an add-on that would allow the user to take calls, listen to music, and even take the help of GPS navigation without any problems. The HJC helmets are known for producing the toughest helmets, and this helmet showcases the potential with utmost clarity. It is robust, crash-proof, anti-fog, and even anti-scratch resistant. By far, it is one of the best helmets to go for if you are looking for an all-purpose helmet at affordable prices.

Pros

Pros
  • Bluetooth Compatible
  • One-handed shield release
  • Advanced CAD for easy fitting
  • HJC toughness, crashproof, anti-fog and others
  • Multi-purpose helmet

Cons

Cons
  • It is heavy
  • Only one size is available 

10. ILM Full Face Motorcycle Street Bike Helmet

ILM Full Face Motorcycle Street Bike Helmet with Removable Winter Neck Scarf + 2 Visors DOT Model-JK313 (L, Matte Black)
  • 2 Visors Included: Clear + Smoked and 1 Neck Scarf for Winter Use
  • Streamlined Aerodynamic Design Reduces Wind Noise and Drag
  • Advanced and Lightweight Durable ABS Shell
  • Quick Release Clasp and Strap and Removable Inner Lining Pads
  • Meets or Exceeds FMVSS-218 and DOT Safety Standards
  • Brand: ILM
  • Weight: 2.98 pounds
  • Size: S to XL
  • Product dimension: 13.8 x 10.2 x 10.2 inches
  • Safety assurance: DOT certified
ILM Full Face motorcycle helmet is the most versatile of all with several sizes ranging from small to extra-large, capable of fitting anyone’s head. It comes with several vibrant color schemes to appeal to people with different choices.

The helmet also comes with two stylish visor options. One of them is clear transparent, and the other one is smoked for riding under intense sunlight. There is a scarf for the winters for the rider to wear, with the helmet. Can you possibly ask for more stylish and versatile options from a helmet?

As far as security is concerned, the helmet comes with FMVSS-218 certification and surpasses the standards. It showcases that the helmet is robust and matches the standard safety and durability protocol of DOT.

For proper ventilation, it follows streamlines aerodynamics, which also reduces wind noise and drag, perfect for seamless riding experience. The helmet is composed of ABS shell, which is lightweight and composed of advanced technology, light on the heat for reduced strain.

It encompasses a quick-release clasp and strap. The removable inner lining pads allow for hygienic cleaning and maintenance for long-lasting usage. Hence, you can maintain a clean helmet easily.

Pros

Pros
  • Various size options
  • Multiple Color Schemes
  • Dual Visor options
  • Removable inner lining pads for cleaning
  • Fantastic aerodynamics

Cons

Cons
  • ABS Shell may not offer as much protection as other measures
  • Vison quality is lower than standard

The Verdict

While a few of the motorcycle riders wear a helmet just to avoid tickets there are a few people like you who care about safety. However, just buying and wearing it during the rides won’t help you. While a good quality helmet can protect your head from injuries, but it doesn’t guarantee protection! That’s it’s equally important to ride safe!

Coming to the budget viewpoint, I think $300 is quite enough for getting a good-quality helmet. However, make sure that it matches with the local laws [Different states have different laws regarding motorcycles & helmets.] The models I’ve mentioned in this list are quite good, in terms of protection, price, value for money, and even safety.

So, Which one are you getting? Comment down and help other people here make an informed buying decision. Who knows, one comment of yours can save lives?

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