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7 Best Retro Motorcycle Helmets You Can Buy in 2023
Motorcycle helmets are not just about safety; they’re also a statement of style, especially when it comes to retro designs. In this article, we delve into the world of retro motorcycle helmets, exploring the top 7 options currently available in the market. From full-face to open-face designs, we’ll examine each helmet’s specifications, highlighting their unique features, pros, and cons.
We aim to provide a comprehensive guide to help you choose a helmet that not only ensures your safety but also complements your style. One highly recommended product is Shoei GT-Air II. To make your decision-making process easier, we’ll also provide a comparison table summarizing the key features of each helmet. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner, this article will equip you with the knowledge to make an informed choice for your next retro motorcycle helmet with helmet covers.
Pros and Cons of Retro Motorcycle Helmets
Here are some general pros and cons of retro motorcycle helmets:
Pros:
Style: Retro motorcycle helmets have a unique, vintage look that is appealing to many riders. They often feature classic designs and colors that can complement a rider’s personal style or match the look of a vintage motorcycle.
Simplicity: Many retro helmets focus on the basics, providing a straightforward, no-frills approach to protection. This can make them easier to use and maintain.
Comfort: Some riders find retro helmets to be more comfortable than modern designs, especially those that feature a more spacious interior or softer padding materials.
Lightweight: Retro helmets, especially open-face designs, tend to be lighter than many modern, full-face helmets. This can make them more comfortable for long rides.
Cons:
Safety: While all helmets sold must meet certain safety standards, some retro helmets may not offer the same level of protection as modern designs. For example, open-face helmets do not provide the same amount of facial protection as full-face helmets.
Lack of Features: Retro helmets often lack the advanced features found in modern helmets, such as integrated Bluetooth systems, anti-fog visors, or advanced ventilation systems.
Noise: Retro helmets, particularly those with open-face designs, can be noisier than full-face helmets when riding at high speeds.
Weather Protection: Open-face retro helmets do not offer the same level of protection from the weather as full-face helmets. This can make them less suitable for riding in rain, cold, or windy conditions.
Review of Some Best Retro Motorcycle Helmets
Here is a detailed review of some of the best retro motorcycle helmets available in the market:
The TORC Unisex-Adult T1 Retro Full Face Motorcycle Helmet is a high-quality helmet that combines a vintage aesthetic with modern safety features. It is designed for street-cruiser motorcycles and is available in a variety of sizes, from X-Small to XX-Large. The helmet is available in the color “Iso Bars Gloss White.”
Fiberglass Tri-Composite Shell: This provides a sturdy and durable exterior for the helmet.
Front Chin Vents with Metal Mesh Intake and Exhaust Vent: These features allow for better airflow and ventilation, making the helmet more comfortable to wear.
Removable Shield: This allows for customization and easy cleaning.
Faux-Suede Liner: This provides a comfortable interior for the helmet.
Padded Chin Strap with D-Ring Closure: This ensures a secure fit.
Multi-Density EPS: This feature provides enhanced safety by absorbing impact.
Anti-Fog & Anti-Scratch Shield: This ensures clear visibility under various conditions.
Certified DOT & ECE 22.5: This indicates that the helmet meets or exceeds safety standards.
Pros
High Safety Standards: The helmet is DOT and ECE 22.5 certified, indicating it meets high safety standards.
Comfortable Design: The faux suede liner and front chin vents make the helmet comfortable to wear.
Durable Construction: The fiberglass tri-composite shell and multi-density EPS ensure durability and safety.
Versatile Size Range: The helmet is available in sizes from X-Small to XX-Large, accommodating a wide range of riders.
Cons
Price: At $279.99, the helmet is on the higher end of the price range for motorcycle helmets.
Limited Color Options: The helmet is only available in one color, “Iso Bars Gloss White,” which may not appeal to all riders.
Potential Size Discrepancy: The product description mentions that the T1 Helmets run on the large side, which could lead to sizing issues for some customers.
Open Face Motorcycle Vespa Helmet
The Open Face Motorcycle Vespa Helmet is a 3/4 retro classic motorcycle helmet designed for both adult men and women. It is a half-face vintage motorcycle helmet equipped with a visor, suitable for scooters, and DOT/ECE approved. The helmet is available in various sizes and comes in a milky white style.
DOT FMVSS 218 and ECE 22.05 Certification: This helmet meets safety standards, ensuring rider safety.
Advanced Material: The helmet uses an ABS shell and high-density EPS material. It also features a disassembled and washable COOLMAX lining that is sweat-absorbing and breathable.
Double Sunshade: The helmet comes with an anti-fog transparent lens that does not compress the field of view, and a sun shield visor for sun blocking. It can be used as a vintage helmet, half helmet, or 3/4 helmet.
Quick Buckle and Soft, Skin-friendly, Breathable Lining: These features ensure comfort and ease of use.
Pros
Safety Certification: The helmet is DOT and ECE certified, ensuring it meets safety standards.
Comfort and Fit: The helmet features a quick buckle and a soft, skin-friendly, breathable lining for comfort.
Versatility: The helmet’s design allows it to be used as a vintage helmet, half helmet, or 3/4 helmet.
Double Sunshade: The anti-fog transparent lens and sun shield visor provide protection from the sun and ensure clear visibility.
Cons
Price: At $148.99, this helmet is relatively expensive compared to other options in the market.
Limited Protection: As an open-face helmet, it does not provide the same level of facial protection as full-face helmets.
Potential Size Discrepancy: Some users have reported that the helmet sizes run large, which could lead to sizing issues.
NTNK N325 Urban SOXON Open-Face-Helmet
The NTNK N325 Urban SOXON Open-Face Helmet is a motorcycle helmet that combines style, comfort, and safety like 70s style motorcycle helmets. It’s designed with a textile-leather material, giving it a unique and stylish look. The helmet is DOT approved, ensuring it meets all the necessary safety standards for road use in the United States. It comes with a European-style one-handed Click-n-Secure quick-release fastener for easy opening and closing, even when wearing gloves. The helmet is available in various sizes, from XS to XL, and weighs approximately 2.3 lbs.
DOT Approved: This helmet meets the FMVSS 218 Standard, making it legal for all US road traffic.
Quick-release Fastener: The helmet features a one-handed Click-n-Secure quick-release fastener for easy opening and closing.
Perfect-Fit: The super soft, partially removable, and washable lining ensures a comfortable fit and prevents odors.
Size and Weight: The helmet weighs 2.3 lbs and is available in sizes XS–XL.
European Style: The helmet is made in cooperation with the motorcycle helmet brand SOXON GERMANY and comes with a metal security ring for easy securing to your scooter.
Pros
The helmet is DOT approved, ensuring it meets all safety standards for road use in the US.
The quick-release fastener allows for easy opening and closing of the helmet.
The super soft lining is partially removable and washable, providing comfort and preventing odors.
The helmet is available in various sizes, ensuring a perfect fit for everyone.
The European style design gives the helmet a unique and stylish look.
Cons
Some users might find the helmet a bit tight, especially when first worn.
The visor might not provide enough coverage for some users, especially at higher speeds.
The helmet might not be suitable for longer rides due to potential discomfort over time.
VCOROS Carbon Fiber Open Face Sun Shield Crusie Motorcycle Helmet
The VCOROS Carbon Fiber Open Face Sun Shield Crusie Motorcycle Helmet is a high-quality helmet designed for ultimate protection and comfort such as Baseball Motorcycle Helmets. It is made from real carbon fiber and features an inner sun visor that can be easily adjusted or removed without the need for tools. The helmet also includes a quick-release buckle and a removable and washable Kool Komfort microfiber liner. This helmet is suitable for all types of vehicles and is available in glossy black color.
Material: The helmet is made from real carbon fiber, ensuring durability and strength.
Sun Visor: It features an inner sun visor that can be easily adjusted or removed without tools.
Quick-Release Buckle: The helmet includes a quick-release buckle for easy wear and removal.
Removable and Washable Liner: The Kool Komfort microfiber liner can be easily removed and washed.
Suitable for All Vehicles: This helmet is suitable for all types of vehicles.
Pros
The helmet is made from durable and strong carbon fiber material.
It features an adjustable and removable sun visor for added convenience.
The quick-release buckle allows for easy wear and removal.
The removable and washable liner ensures hygiene and comfort.
It is suitable for all types of vehicles.
Cons
Some users have reported that the helmet size runs a bit larger than stated.
The helmet may give a mushroom head look due to its thickness.
BEON Open Face Motorcycle Helmet for Adults
The BEON Open Face Motorcycle Helmet is a versatile and stylish helmet like German helmets designed for adults. It is DOT-approved and features dual visors, making it a suitable choice for both men and women. This helmet is ideal for various types of rides, including mopeds, cruisers, bobbers, and choppers.
Legal Compliance: The helmet meets or exceeds DOT FMVSS 218 and ECE 22.05 certification, complying with the required regulation in the USA.
Safety: The helmet is made of an advanced thermoplastic shell and high-density EPS with a comfortable fitting and good absorption. It also features a super soft mesh inner liner.
Ease of Use: The helmet comes with a Click-n-Secure Quick-Release Buckle that is sturdy and can be released with only one gloved hand. The inner liner is removable and washable, and the metal visor base can be screwed or unscrewed by hand without additional tools.
Better Eye Protection: The helmet features a clear and anti-scratch outer visor and a retractable inner sun visor that is anti-UV, providing better protection for the eyes.
Multipurpose: An additional long outer visor is provided for better protection of the face at high speeds. This helmet is a good retro-style choice for adults riding on motorcycles, motorbikes, cruisers, choppers, scooters, cafe racers, and street bikes, for daily commutes, touring, or city cruises.
Pros
Versatile and stylish design
Complies with safety regulations
Features dual visors for better eye protection
Comes with a sturdy and easy-to-use quick-release buckle
The inner liner is removable and washable
Cons
Some users may find the helmet a bit wide for storage under a scooter seat
Switching between the two provided face shields may require some figuring out.
ILM Vintage Full Face Motorcycle Helmets
The ILM Vintage Full Face Motorcycle Helmets are designed for adults and are compatible with mopeds, ATVs, cruisers, and scooters. These helmets are DOT approved and come in a variety of sizes and colors.
Safety: The helmet is made of a high-quality ABS outer shell and meets or exceeds FMVSS-218 and DOT Safety Standards.
Retractable Inner Visor: The helmet comes with a dark black inner visor. Clear and silver inner visors are optional for extra purchase.
Humanization Design: The helmet is eyeglasses-friendly and has Bluetooth microphone/speakers pockets for riders to install Bluetooth headsets or devices.
Wide Field of Vision: The helmet is goggles-compatible and the leather buckle on the back of the helmet helps to fasten the strap of the goggles.
Quick Release Buckle: The helmet has a metal quick-release buckle for easy on/off. The suede top and cheek liners are fully replaceable, washable, and comfortable.
Pros
The helmet is made of high-quality materials and meets safety standards.
It has a retractable inner visor and is eyeglasses-friendly.
The helmet has a wide field of vision and is goggles-compatible.
It has a quick-release buckle for easy on/off.
Cons
Some users might prefer a different style or design of the helmet.
The helmet might not fit all head sizes perfectly, so it’s important to check the size chart before purchasing.
The dark black inner visor might not be suitable for all lighting conditions, and clear and silver inner visors are sold separately.
XFMT Motorcycle 3/4 Open Face Helmets Retro Vintage Style DOT Helmet
The XFMT Motorcycle 3/4 Open Face Helmets are designed with a retro vintage style and are suitable for chopper scooter cruisers. Additionally, It’s worth investing in motorcycle helmet locks for the safety of your motorcycle helmets. These helmets are DOT approved and come in a variety of sizes.
Helmet Construction: Made of high-quality ABS shell, lightweight but durable. It also features a double D-ring chin strap retention system and a faux suede leather liner for a super comfortable fit.
Vintage Design: The helmet has a 3/4 open-face design with a glossy black finish. The solid color enhances its retro look, making it fashionable and cool.
Ride Enhancing Features: The helmet comes with a retractable sun visor and an anti-scratch, 3-button detachable visor to protect your eyes from the sun. A helmet bag is also included.
Size Guide: The helmet comes in Small (53-54 cm, 20.9/21.3 Inches), Medium (55-56 cm, 21.7/22.0 Inches), Large (57-59 cm, 22.4/22.8 Inches), and X-Large (59-60 cm, 23.2/23.6 Inches) sizes.
Pros
The helmet is made of high-quality materials and meets safety standards.
It has a retractable sun visor and an anti-scratch, 3-button detachable visor.
The helmet has a vintage design and comes in a glossy black finish.
It comes with a helmet bag for easy storage and transport.
Cons
Some users might prefer a different style or design of the helmet.
The helmet might not fit all head sizes perfectly, so it’s important to check the size chart before purchasing.
The glossy black finish might not be suitable for all users, as some might prefer a matte finish or a different color.
Here is a summary of the key features, pros, and cons of all the helmets in a table format:
High-quality construction, Comfortable, Good ventilation, Stylish design
Some users reported sizing issues, Lack of full face protection
Comparative analysis
In comparing the seven helmets, several factors come into play, including safety, comfort, design, and additional features. Here’s a comparative analysis of the seven helmets:
Safety: All seven helmets are DOT approved, which means they meet the necessary safety standards for road use in the United States. The TORC Unisex-Adult T1 Retro Full Face Motorcycle Helmet and the ILM Vintage Full Face Motorcycle Helmets provide full-face protection, which can offer more safety in the event of an accident. The other helmets are open-face, providing less coverage but more ventilation.
Comfort: All helmets feature removable and washable liners, which can enhance comfort and hygiene. The VCOROS Carbon Fiber Open Face Sun Shield Crusie Motorcycle Helmet is made from real carbon fiber, which is lightweight and can contribute to comfort, especially on longer rides.
Design: In terms of design, the choice largely depends on personal preference. The TORC Unisex-Adult T1 Retro Full Face Motorcycle Helmet has a classic retro design, while the VCOROS Carbon Fiber Open Face Sun Shield Crusie Motorcycle Helmet has a sleek carbon fiber finish. The BEON Open Face Motorcycle Helmet and the XFMT Open Face 3/4 Motorcycle Helmets Retro Vintage Style DOT Helmet both offer a vintage look.
Additional Features: The ILM Motorcycle Helmets stand out with their retractable inner visor and eyeglasses-friendly design. The VCOROS Carbon Fiber Open Face Sun Shield Crusie Motorcycle Helmet also features an inner sun visor that can be easily adjusted or removed without tools. The NTNK N325 Urban SOXON Open-Face-Helmet offers a quick-release fastener for easy opening and closing.
Performance Comparison
Here is a performance comparison chart of the reviewed products:
Creating a performance comparison chart can be challenging without specific performance metrics. However, based on the available information, we can create a comparison chart based on safety, comfort, design, and additional features. Here’s a performance comparison chart:
Helmet
Safety (DOT Approved)
Full Face Protection
Comfort (Removable/Washable Liner)
Design
TORC Unisex-Adult T1 Retro Full Face Motorcycle Helmet
Yes
Yes
Yes
Classic Retro
Open Face Motorcycle Vespa Helmet
Yes
No
Yes
Classic Retro
NTNK N325 Urban SOXON Open-Face-Helmet
Yes (ECE Certified)
No
Yes
European Style
VCOROS Carbon Fiber Open Face Sun Shield Crusie Motorcycle Helmet
Yes
No
Yes
Sleek Carbon Fiber Finish
BEON Open Face Motorcycle Helmet
Yes
No
Yes
Vintage Look
ILM Vintage Full Face Motorcycle Helmets
Yes
Yes
Yes
Classic Retro
XFMT Motorcycle 3/4 Open Face Helmets Retro Vintage Style DOT Helmet
Yes
No
Yes
Vintage Look
Frequently Asked Questions
Here is an FAQ section in a table format:
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers
Are all these helmets DOT approved?
Yes, all the helmets listed are DOT approved, which means they meet the necessary safety standards for road use in the United States.
Which helmets offer full face protection?
The TORC Unisex-Adult T1 Retro Full Face Motorcycle Helmet and the ILM Vintage Full Face Motorcycle Helmets offer full face protection.
Can the liners in these helmets be removed and washed?
Yes, all the helmets listed feature removable and washable liners.
Which helmet has a quick-release fastener?
The NTNK N325 Urban SOXON Open-Face-Helmet features a quick-release fastener.
Which helmets come with a retractable sun visor?
The VCOROS Carbon Fiber Open Face Sun Shield Crusie Motorcycle Helmet and the XFMT Motorcycle 3/4 Open Face Helmets Retro Vintage Style DOT Helmet come with a retractable sun visor.
Are these helmets suitable for all types of motorcycles?
Yes, these helmets are suitable for a variety of motorcycles, including cruisers, choppers, scooters, and more. However, it’s always best to check the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure the helmet is suitable for your specific type of motorcycle.
Do these helmets come in different sizes?
Yes, these helmets come in a variety of sizes. It’s important to check the size chart before purchasing to ensure a proper fit.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right retro motorcycle helmet depends on a variety of factors, including safety standards, comfort, design, and additional features. All seven helmets reviewed in this article are DOT approved and offer unique features that cater to different rider preferences.
