Open-face helmets offer a lighter, more breathable alternative to full-face helmets. However, selecting the optimal open-face motorcycle helmet might pose a challenge if you’re unsure of the criteria to consider. To assist with this, we’ve created the following guide where we address;
- Do open-faced motorcycles make sense for everyone?
- What are the benefits of an open-face helmet?
- How should you choose a helmet?
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My top pick for you under the open-face motorcycle helmet is the Bell Helmets 7050049 Street 2015 Custom 500 Adult Helmet. The Bell Custom 500 is a homage to its original design by Ritcher, which remains one of the classics. Its timeless design and production are only a testament to why the helmet is a classic.
Features
- The Bell helmet 500 is a refined version of its original design from 1954.
- The helmet has a low-profile composite shell which has 5 shell design that gives it a complete look.
- It has a Multi-Density Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) liner that gives quality to the helmet.
- The helmet is completed with a 5 snap pattern for customization after purchase. The shields and visor features are installed as per personal preference.
- There are several colour designs available in the same designs.
What is an open face motorcycle helmet?
The open-face helmet is a helmet that covers the rider’s top and backside of the head and leaves the face area open. This design is also called a half-face helmet or a three-quarter helmet. The helmet protects the rear side of the head, keeping the face open, and it does not have chin covers. It is a classic design helmet that elevates your style.
What are the features of an open-face helmet?
Below are some of the highlights:
- They are comfortable and breathable, giving you the natural feel of riding.
- It allows free air circulation, making this helmet one of the favourites, especially during hot summer days, keeping the rider cool.
- They are lightweight, so they will not be heavy for long rides.
- The open-face feature allows you to have a drink, eat or even talk without having to remove the helmet.
- Because it is open-face, you get a broader unobstructed view which means you have a better view range.
- If you are a rider who enjoys putting on a pair of goggles or sunglasses while riding, then the open-face feature gives plenty of room to do so.
- This design helmet works well on a rainy day as it doesn’t fog like full-face helmets. They are also great wind-resistant helmets.
Is the open-face helmet safe?
The helmet’s purpose is to protect riders in cases of impact. However, there are degrees of protection these helmets provide the riders. Each helmet design comes with its degree of safety. 19.4% of all crashes are cases where the injury is around the chin bar area.
Every helmet type has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Upon face frontal impact, in the case of an open face helmet, it is hazardous because the face is exposed with no chin bar protection. The open-face helmet design does not come with chin bar protection. This is one of the main disadvantages of the open-face helmet.
In terms of safety, it is not at par with the full-faced or the modular helmets. However, besides that disadvantage, the helmets are built to protect against rear head injury during impact.
Are open-face helmets noisy?
Your bike ride can become quite uncomfortable if the helmet is too noisy. It is crucial to choose the correct helmet to avoid unnecessary noise. If there is space between your ear and the helmet, the ride can be noisy. So make sure you buy the fitting open-face helmet and not the loose ones.
Because of the open-face feature, you might face strong winds brushing your face that might make the helmet a little noisy. Besides, if your visor shield is loosely fitted, it can create additional sound.
What do you need to wear for an open-face helmet?
There are certain disadvantages to the open-face helmet that can be rectified to a certain extent with some aids. As we know by now that the open-face feature exposes the face. During rides on an open face helmet, you are exposed to wind, rain, sun, dirt, and dust.
Your vision should never be obstructed when driving to avoid accidents. However, you can use the help of some aids to cater to such issues. One is advised to wear goggles or a pair of sunglasses to protect you from the dirt and wind that flies into your eyes.
While riding, the wind can get dirt into your mouth, for which it is best advised to wear a mask over your face to prevent such issues. If the wind becomes too noisy, you can wear some aids like a scarf or earplugs to cancel the noise.
Why should you buy an open-face helmet?
If you are looking for a helmet that gives you an undisturbed wider view range, this is the helmet for you. The open-face features allow you to have a broader view.
You can also drink or eat and talk to co-riders or others without removing the helmet. If such features appeal to you, buying an open-face helmet will not disappoint you.
The open-face helmet is an excellent choice if you want to elevate your biker style. Besides, the open-face helmet is a style statement piece for biker getups. You can accentuate it with your style of sunglasses.
Who should buy an open-face motorcycle helmet?
One of the main features of the open-face motorcycle helmet is the design that makes a style statement. If you’re looking for a helmet that will give you an attitude and a different look, you should buy this helmet.
The open-face feature does expose you to a lot of wind, dust, dirt, and the sun. This can make your long rides extremely uncomfortable. For long rides, the open-face helmet might not be the best choice. However, if you plan to use it for long rides, adding a face mask or scarf with a pair of sunglasses or goggles may do it for you.
The open-face helmets are best suited for short rides and everyday commutes. You can have the thrill, the feel, and ride in style.
Can we customize an open-face helmet?
Most of the open-face helmets come with no accessories like visors and shields. But they do often come with customizing options. Post-store purchase, one can quickly get it customized as per preference. Some open-face helmets come with a built-in visor and shield.
What should you consider when you buy a helmet?
Buying a good helmet would mean investing in your safety and the helmet’s style and features. Doing so will enhance your riding experience, look, and feel. So, you must buy a helmet that does justice to your priorities and needs. Here is a list of things you should consider while buying a helmet
Try before you buy
One of the cardinal rules to buying a helmet is to make sure you try it before buying it. You can never be sure of the fit, the look, and the style without trying it out first in the store. Unless you are super lucky and have tried it already, it is best to buy the product before buying.
The right fit
One might feel that fit is not an important aspect but getting the right fit makes all the difference. If your helmet is loose, it will create unnecessary discomfort while riding and even mess your whole style. Studies show a 30% reduction in protection when your helmet is too big for you. The same discomfort goes to the too-small helmet; it cannot even fit you.
Comfort
Helmets should not make you feel restricted and suffocated. Trust me! Never compromise on the comfort that the helmet gives. If it does not feel comfortable, it is not meant for you.
Check the certification
Make sure to check the safety certifications before you buy the helmets. Your safety should not be compromised. Buy products that have actual safety certifications so that they can best protect you in case of accidents.
Design
The design is another aspect you should consider while getting a helmet. You wouldn’t want to buy a helmet that does not suit you or add value to your style. If you are investing a good amount of money, you would want to get the best quality, safety protection, and design for yourself.
What are the different types of helmets?
Knowing the different types of helmets can help you narrow down what kind of helmet you should buy. There are different types of helmets available with their features and designs. Here are some of the helmet kinds- half-face helmet, open-face helmet, modular helmet, dual sport helmet off-road helmets, half shell helmet, etc.
Reviews
Bell Helmets 7050049
The classic design Bell helmet Custom 500 offers a timeless look to your style. The low-profile composite shell completes the look elevating your riding experience. You will not be disappointed with the product’s airflow, especially on hot summer days and the broad view.
What we like
Multi-Density Expanded Polystyrene (EPS): the EPS liner gives the helmet excellent quality and resistance.
5 pattern: this feature allows customizations post-purchase for attaching visors and shields.
Classic design: the design is a timeless design of the original design from 1954.
The Bosermem Adult Harley helmet is a stylish-looking helmet designed for men and women. It is built with good quality, wear-resistant material, and soft cotton lining.
What we like
The transparent visor: the transparent visor makes the view clear instead of the tinted ones.
Liner: It has a high-quality Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) with a padded cushion inside.
Design: They are durable, stylish, and come for unisex.
The Zorax ZOR-604 is another favourite open-face motorcycle helmet with a removable peak, lightweight and a semi-removable and washable liner.
What we like
Affordable price: affordable pricing makes all the difference while purchasing.
Removable peak: you can easily remove the peak as per preference.
Stylish retro look: the helmet has a stylish retro look.
The open-face Viper RS- V06 has an integrated dropdown sun visor, removable lining, and a quick release and fastening safety chin belt.
What do we like?
Sun visor: the helmet comes with an integrated dropdown internal sun visor
Chine strap: The chin belt is easily fastened and removed.
The G-MAC Rebel Evo makes it into the top picks due to its classic design yet modern safety feature. It has excellent certification, and a safety net gives you the stylish, low-profile open-face helmet.
What we like
Safety standards: The helmet comes with high safety standards certification.
Sun visor: Integrated tinted sun visor with a dropdown feature.
Comfortable padding: The liners have luxurious padding material built to give rider comfort.
Verdict
The classic style of open-face helmets is excellent for urban users who commute short distances or go for short rides. Our top pick is the Bell helmet Custom 500; it doesn’t disappoint with the EPS density liner and range of other high-quality features.