The post that will get me banned. Or run outta here. Helmets...

[Ken aka Oil Burner]

Well, first off, I live in a helmet mandatory state. I've ridden without one in states that allow, but my self preservation instinct makes me feel a bit more comfortable with one. I'm not judging anyone who chooses not to wear one. It's still a free country. Well, kind of.

I have multiple full-face helmets, and a couple 2/3 and 3/4 helmets kicking around. Arai, Shoei, HJC, Nolan, and a couple others.

Every summer, when it gets hot and humid, I start to think about a 1/2 helmet. Owned 1 for about a day, but the straps were terrible, and rubbed the ears like a torture device.

Helmets are like any other form of clothing, fitting different people in different ways. That said, I'd love any and all opinions from those who use one. Pictures of the way it fits, and the way the straps fit you, would be fantastic, and much appreciated. Pretty much only interested in DOT rated rather than novelty, but don't want to look like the Great Gazoo, either. I ain't too purdy as it is; don't need to make it any worse than I have to.

[f6john]

I have yet to find a comfortable helmet. We can probably blame my head more so that the helmet manufacturers 

[Gryphon Rider]

You're asking specifically about half helmets, right?

[kahnma]

I have a Shoei RF-1200 with a transitional shield. All day comfort is no problem. I added a Sena 3S-W and can hear it great. The transitional shield eliminates the need for glasses but its an $180! I also have the pin-lock system so it wont fog no matter how hard you try breathing while not in motion. In all its a good $900 set up or so. I like it, keeps me warm and allows me to extend the riding season since my face inst cold. Also breather well in the summer and its nice not having the sun beating on my head.

I used to ride no helmet, but I dont anymore. I like the helmet now that I have gotten used to it. Also keeps the GF off my back as she hated when I rode without a helmet.

[Ken aka Oil Burner]

You're asking specifically about half helmets, right?

Yes. Sorry I rambled. I do that. Ask my wife.

I'm all set with full faced helmets. I have, and wear those most of the time. Looking for half-helmet opinions for those super disgustingly hot days.

[1NorthRyder]

Up here in the great white north helmets are mandatory . I have a Bell 3/4 for inclement weather and a beanie 1/2 helmet (no idea what make) for good weather. I would prefer to wear no helmet and do so when travelling south of the border when in states that permit me to.

[ptgb]

Check out http://www.lidpicker.com/

Best 25 bucks I spent. Been through many helmets, mostly 3/4 and half. Cabinet full of ones that gave me a headache from pressure points mostly in the forehead. Also ones that were good for a few hours, but after 8-10 hours in it, wanted to toss it in the lake.

Sent for the "measuring kit", which could be had with homemade stuff, but what the heck. Sent in measurements for both me and the wife. Got back reports for both of us. They give you many helmet brands/models that they say will be the best fit in full face, 3/4, and 1/2. Actually recommended sizes that were smaller for me and larger for the wife (from what we bought in the past). We ordered our helmets online based on their recommendation (even the sizes that we thought were wrong, but they said were right).  

Best fitting, most comfortable helmets we have ever had. Your mileage may vary, but we were very happy with lidpicker.

[msb]

I have worn half helmets most of the time through the decades....never could get used to full face or find one that fit properly, but did have 3/4 ones way back in the day. I've just always liked the unlimited vision when wearing a good fitting half helmet. My current helmets (2) are basically the same...DOT approved with a wide leather V strap over the ears to which a protective insert can be velcroed underneath for cold weather protection, and a quick release chin strap. A couple of years ago I purchased the Sena 10 system specifically made for half helmets, with the speakers built into their own insert, which again fits snugly up under the ear V strap. This offers both cold weather protection and excellent sound from the speakers, shutting out enough exhaust and road noise to easily converse with the Mrs or listen to music.

[Jess from VA]

I've used half and 3/4 helmets all my life (though mostly halfs, and all DOT halfs, no stupid plastic scull caps).  I get claustrophobic from full face.

The best half I ever wore (and still wear) is the Scorpion EXO100.  Best fit and comfort (for oblong heads) and best (safety) coverage of any half helmet ever.  And it has a half visor that disappears up into the helmet (snap on visors always suck, and rattle after a few months of use).  It also had a cold weather neck curtain to zip on, which I absolutely require, as I wear it year round.  Except they stopped making it.    (and that curtain had pockets for helmet speakers if you care about that)

The Scorpion EXO C110 replaced it, and I can only assume it still has great fit and comfort, but they did away with the zip-on neck curtain, which really pisses me off.  My old EXO100 has lost it's bill (not visor) (blew off on the freeway) and has seen better days, but I want a zip-off neck curtain on my halfs.

This is just another situation where if you find about anything you really like, you need to buy several of them when you can, on the theory that sooner than later, what you like will be discontinued for something else.

Old Scorpion EXO100 with neck curtain. (half visor up)


Current Scorpion EXO C110. (no neck curtain, but now vented, a little)


One other small "looks only" issue.  I really did not like the Scorpion trademark bright Z (S) on the EXO100 because it was too close to WWII Nazi Runes (and I painted mine flat black to cover it up).  The new EXO C110 has it already blacked out.  I suppose it could be chipped off with a chisel, but it's under the clear coat.

The little half visor is much more useful than I originally thought it would be. Good for cold, clouds of bugs, riding into the sun (double dark with prescription shades), finding yourself behind a sand or gravel truck, and of course rain.  Even with my fairing interstates, it gets used more than I thought it would.

I could be wrong on this, but is has long been my understanding that most all helmets (and companies) make helmets for two predominating head shapes, oblong or round.  I'm an oblong.

IMHO, getting a perfectly fitting helmet (like all hats and boots) absolutely requires going to the store and trying them on.  You may not buy it there, and get 30% off on line (or not), but there is no substitute for trying them on.  And most sellers never allow returns.  And like Pete said above, I've also had helmets that seemed a good snug fit, only to get terrible headaches 2  hours into a ride (pain always on the forehead).  Yes they should be snug, but headaches is a sure sign of too snug.

[Hook#3287]

Presently, I'm using this.

https://www.bellhelmets.com/powersports/helmets/street/pit-boss

It's comfortable, has a head grabbing knob on the back similar to what some hardhats have and a screen that folds into the helmet.

I've got a clear screen in there and use it for rain only and it is big enough to use over sunglasses.

[3fan4life]

AFX FX200



https://www.denniskirk.com/3304083S.sku?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cse&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIuunkwKSS2QIVR16GCh17dg-rEAQYBiABEgJidvD_BwE&ad=45713348197

This is the best half helmet that I have ever had.

I really like the two hidden face shields (1 clear and 1 tinted).

It has ear pads that I use in cooler weather:


Comfortable, and under $100.

The spousal unit likes hers too.

PIC of my ugly mug wearing it (with a face mask):

[Gryphon Rider]

This one looks interesting to me, the HJC IS-Cruiser:



I prefer the sides of the helmet dropping lower in front of my ears rather than behind them.  I also prefer white for heat reflection and because it looks more like a police helmet.  Anything that makes me look a little more like a cop makes other drivers register me as a threat, which means they're aware of me.  If they move out of the fast lane in front of me, so much the better.  I don't think I've tried this one on, however, so I don't know if it's huge, giving the mushroom effect, or whether it'll fit my oval (rather than round) head shape.

[Willow]

I own 3/4, full faced, and half shell helmets.  Honestly I ride mostly with 1/2 helmet.

I've been down hard twice in a half shell (different ones), each a simple HJC. The last time down the doctor (Who can trust them?) told my wife I wouldn't have broken my neck (C2 minimal displacement) had I been wearing a full faced.

Ride with what makes you comfortable.  Riding is dangerous.  There are things you can do or wear to decrease or increase the degree of danger.  Keep that in mind.    

[Detn8er]

I own 3/4, full faced, and half shell helmets.  Honestly I ride mostly with 1/2 helmet.

I've been down hard twice in a half shell (different ones), each a simple HJC. The last time down the doctor (Who can trust them?) told my wife I wouldn't have broken my neck (C2 minimal displacement) had I been wearing a full faced.

Ride with what makes you comfortable.  Riding is dangerous.  There are things you can do or wear to decrease or increase the degree of danger.  Keep that in mind.    

Willow sir, I would be willing to purchase the last crash helmet from you for a crisp one dollar bill. I would also be willing to pay the shipping cost...(again) You could send it on the same usps turtle that brought it to you....What say you?   

[sheets]

We have a pair of the HJC half-helmets with the built-in eye shield. They work good. Don't look too bad either. Little bit of a bubble head, but not a deal breaker. 

[Willow]

I own 3/4, full faced, and half shell helmets.  Honestly I ride mostly with 1/2 helmet.

I've been down hard twice in a half shell (different ones), each a simple HJC. The last time down the doctor (Who can trust them?) told my wife I wouldn't have broken my neck (C2 minimal displacement) had I been wearing a full faced.

Ride with what makes you comfortable.  Riding is dangerous.  There are things you can do or wear to decrease or increase the degree of danger.  Keep that in mind.    

Willow sir, I would be willing to purchase the last crash helmet from you for a crisp one dollar bill. I would also be willing to pay the shipping cost...(again) You could send it on the same usps turtle that brought it to you....What say you?   

Thank you for that helmet, Detn8er.  It saved my life.  The impact with the pavement resulted in a life threatening brain bleed on the left side and split the frontal lobe from the bulk of the organ.  I gave it to my daughter to hang on her wall and remind her that I had been kept around for some purpose.  I don't think she did and to tell the truth she really doesn't like me much anymore.

I am very grateful for your life saving gift.

[MarkT]

I have a Bell half helmet I wear amost exclusively (when I wear one) except if on a trip, I bring  also a HJC convertible in case I have to deal with rain.  The Bell was bought online at an amazing price - $20 - it was extra large IIRC and it fits perfectly.  I figured for $20 it's worth a shot.  DOT certified.  Got lucky. Apparently I have a standard albeit large noggin. I use it in the winter too - bring a balaclava if I need face warmth. Helmets are like seats - very personal; what works for one likely won't work for the next rider.  Anymore I travel with a trailer and have plenty of room to haul extra comfort stuff.

[Jersey mike]

This one looks interesting to me, the HJC IS-Cruiser:



I prefer the sides of the helmet dropping lower in front of my ears rather than behind them.  I also prefer white for heat reflection and because it looks more like a police helmet.  Anything that makes me look a little more like a cop makes other drivers register me as a threat, which means they're aware of me.  If they move out of the fast lane in front of me, so much the better.  I don't think I've tried this one on, however, so I don't know if it's huge, giving the mushroom effect, or whether it'll fit my oval (rather than round) head shape.

This looks very similar to the HJC I wear when out on the Goldwing, but on the Valk I wear a modular.

[Detn8er]

I own 3/4, full faced, and half shell helmets.  Honestly I ride mostly with 1/2 helmet.

I've been down hard twice in a half shell (different ones), each a simple HJC. The last time down the doctor (Who can trust them?) told my wife I wouldn't have broken my neck (C2 minimal displacement) had I been wearing a full faced.

Ride with what makes you comfortable.  Riding is dangerous.  There are things you can do or wear to decrease or increase the degree of danger.  Keep that in mind.    

Willow sir, I would be willing to purchase the last crash helmet from you for a crisp one dollar bill. I would also be willing to pay the shipping cost...(again) You could send it on the same usps turtle that brought it to you....What say you?   

Thank you for that helmet, Detn8er.  It saved my life.  The impact with the pavement resulted in a life threatening brain bleed on the left side and split the frontal lobe from the bulk of the organ.  I gave it to my daughter to hang on her wall and remind her that I had been kept around for some purpose.  I don't think she did and to tell the truth she really doesn't like me much anymore.

I am very grateful for your life saving gift.

Glad it helped. I still like you.(eventhenewdifferent/improvedyou)

[Willow]

Glad it helped. I still like you.(eventhenewdifferent/improvedyou)

 

[Oldfishguy]

Bell Drifter DLX DOT 1/2 for me.

I'm afraid it is one of those things your going to have to go to a bike shop and try on.  And then you might as well buy it there too.

[Jess from VA]

This is probably not for me, but while looking around, I found a different kind of modular, that can be Half, 3/4 or full face with pretty easy assembly (snaps in).  For when the weather changes along the way.

Scorpion Covert Helmet
http://www.motorcyclegear.com/street/street_helmets_and_eyewear/open_face/scorpion/covert_helmet.html

(Ratnik Covert)
http://www.motorcyclegear.com/street/street_helmets_and_eyewear/open_face/scorpion/covert_ratnik_helmet.html

Half: (1/2 visor up)


3/4:



Full


Gort... klaatu barada nikto.

[3fan4life]

That's interesting Jess.

I may have to look into that.

[sandy]

I noticed a lot of comments about poor fitting helmets. I have a couple of helmet liners which make all my helmets feel much more comfy. Gryphon Rider's advice about white helmets are correct. Commuting in the dark with black jackets and helmets makes no sense. Some call it stylish; I call it camo gear.

[Savago]

I have being using for the last 3 years a Shoei Neotec, it is a modular helmet and really comfortable.

Plus, has an internal dark visor that retracts using a push button, pretty cool (and no need to use sunglasses while riding).

I use it with a Sena SMH-10, it has already the space/padding to install one with no need to cut or drill the helmet.

If riding under 50 miles/h, I keep it open. Past that, I flip it closed and it offers the security of a full face helmet.

Not sure if that is your cup of tea though.
 

[rocketray]

I have read in motorcycle crashes 60% of the strikes are to the face--meaning 1/2 helmets aren't going to help---wearing a "helmet" lowers the fatality rates by a 1/3 I have read--

[Fazer]

I use the HJC Modular.  HJC makes different head shape helmets as well and mine fits well.  Main concern with 1/2 helmet is grinding the ol chin down in a harsh meeting with the pavement.  Full face better than the modular, and modular better than open face, but anything is better than nothing.  Wish mine were a little quieter.  Get wind noise, probably from all the pivots and gaps for the lifting apparatus.

[Toledo Mark]

superseer.com

Its what I wear

[czuch]

I'm a full face all the time guy.
Being Dutch, Irish extraction, I don't have what it takes to be a desert rat type.
1,  Nothing like a full face with a dark shield for those Patriot Guard rides.
2,  Dosent scare children

[Gryphon Rider]

I have read in motorcycle crashes 60% of the strikes are to the face--meaning 1/2 helmets aren't going to help---wearing a "helmet" lowers the fatality rates by a 1/3 I have read--

Adding it up, it's 45%.  That chin bar looks really important to me.
Half helmets won't help facial impacts, but I suspect facial impacts are less fatal than other parts of the head.  Lookin' good (or no worse than I am) and chewing my food are important to me, however.

[henry 008]

This is probably not for me, but while looking around, I found a different kind of modular, that can be Half, 3/4 or full face with pretty easy assembly (snaps in).  For when the weather changes along the way.

Scorpion Covert Helmet
http://www.motorcyclegear.com/street/street_helmets_and_eyewear/open_face/scorpion/covert_helmet.html

(Ratnik Covert)
http://www.motorcyclegear.com/street/street_helmets_and_eyewear/open_face/scorpion/covert_ratnik_helmet.html

Half: (1/2 visor up)


3/4:



Full


Gort... klaatu barada nikto.

dealer just called me at noon today and said he had a couple of these in my size to try on! I was eyeballing a couple this past weekend, but they didn't have my size on hand.

[Jess from VA]

I might use the 3/4 conversion in cold weather, but probably would never use the face mask (unless I had hours to go in the rain).  My few attempts with a full face fogged up so bad I was blind, even with vents opened, I just had to open the shield up to see at all.  And it's nearly impossible to burn tobacco in a full face.

What I like most about the half is that it looks really heavy duty and maybe overbuilt compared to most.

I will never be an ATGATT guy, but I keep trying to do better than I have in the past.

I wear DOT halfs, but don't give a damn if it gives me the mushroom head look.

If someone finds how I look amusing.... I'm happy for them.  We all need to laugh more. 

But it's a lot of extra coin for a half, with parts I would rarely use.

[Farside]

  The HJC IS Cruiser is my preference. I have 3 different colors to match both bikes.   I use the my Shoei RF800 for cold weather for sure, good fit.  

[Jess from VA]

 The HJC IS Cruiser is my preference. I have 3 different colors to match both bikes.   I use the my Shoei RF800 for cold weather for sure, good fit.  

Of all those posted here, that one has my attention most.

I'm going to find them in a store and do a try and fit test.

I understand advertising,  but I wish they would stop putting their names and logos all over the helmets.

I'm not big on bullet hole decals either.

[hubcapsc]

When I got my 1500 Valkyrie I got a red Shoei X-11... after the lining started to
wear through in a few places, I got a white Shoei X-12... I think they are
way comfortable, even when it is 95 every day, like on a couple of
those InZane trips...



-Mike

[Ken aka Oil Burner]

Well, I thank everyone for all the replies. I do understand that a 1/2 helmet may or may not protect me fully in a crash. Lots of variables, there. Like motorcycling in general, it's a calculated risk. I wear a full face helmet almost 100% of the time currently, but have those moments when I'd take a bit more risk to feel a little more air.

I've been researching all the helmets posted here. I know I'll be heading to a shop to try some on. It's getting harder. Most of my local places don't stock much anymore. Too many people buy them online now, so they get stuck with them. It's an Amazon world now, it seems.

One question I have for those who said the Bell Pit Boss. Quite a few reviews said it was actually a bit warmer than they expected. Any truth to that? That's one of the things I wouldn't really be able to tell from just a trial fit.

[Hook#3287]

Well, I thank everyone for all the replies. I do understand that a 1/2 helmet may or may not protect me fully in a crash. Lots of variables, there. Like motorcycling in general, it's a calculated risk. I wear a full face helmet almost 100% of the time currently, but have those moments when I'd take a bit more risk to feel a little more air.

I've been researching all the helmets posted here. I know I'll be heading to a shop to try some on. It's getting harder. Most of my local places don't stock much anymore. Too many people buy them online now, so they get stuck with them. It's an Amazon world now, it seems.

One question I have for those who said the Bell Pit Boss. Quite a few reviews said it was actually a bit warmer than they expected. Any truth to that? That's one of the things I wouldn't really be able to tell from just a trial fit.

I went from a HJC 1/2 helmet that served me well for years, to the Bell Pit Boss.

Didn't notice any difference in heat.

I did notice that head itching was gone.

[Ken aka Oil Burner]

superseer.com

Its what I wear

I was just checking out their website. Very interesting stuff. I like the multiple options for interior, straps, etc. The price leads me to believe it's premium quality. Unfortunately, nobody would have those in stock to try on. I presume from the way you stated it that you are happy with the helmet, correct?

[Jess from VA]

Here's a nice little accessory for any helmet.  How many times have you got ready to go with gloves on, grabbed your helmet, then realized you cannot work the D-rings with your gloves on, and off they come?  And your riding buddies have already left the parking lot.  And some straps are so long, the tail slaps your face for you, on halfs and 3/4ers.  

This quick release easily works with gloves (once you get the hang of it), is very secure, and once set up, the strap can be trimmed (and burned/melted so it doesn't fray).  Remember that a half with neck curtain zipped on, needs a bit more strap than with it off (so be careful where you cut).   I have found that mine does need to be snugged up an eighth inch every few months.  You leave the D-rings on, and they can be used for helmet locks, if you use them. There are others available.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6nL5MUNcS3A

https://www.amazon.com/Echo-Quick-Release-Black-Size/dp/B002MQCY7C/ref=pd_lpo_vtph_263_bs_img_1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=XGSBZRT3D7GBJHMFHF3X

[Safety Steve]

I have a Pit Boss half helmet, two things I like about it is that the back comes down and covers the base of your head in the back and it has a ratchet that you can adjust the fit, and it comes with a zip on wind piece that helps with the cold, Hell I guess that are 3 reasons, and because of the ratchet and how far it goes down on the head wind doesn't get under it so it stays in place.  Very comfortable helmet.