Retro Motorcycle Helmets Reviewed
What is it that attracts riders to retro motorcycle helmets? Is it their nostalgic style, reminiscent of fighter jet pilots from the 50’s? Or is it because they’re comfortable, and can really accentuate the feeling of freedom associated with motorcycling?
Since the early days of AGV and Bell, big brands have been delving into the production of so called retro motorcycle helmets, each stamping their own impression on the category’s advancement in the process. In this review, we’ll strip back the appeal of retro motorcycle helmets, discover how they’ve evolved, and identify what risks are involved when wearing one.
Concluding this review, you’ll find all the best retro motorcycle helmets for sale in the UK, categorised by full face, open face, and off-road. For a more varied selection of motorcycle helmets check out the Top Rated Motorcycle Helmets.
Features Of Retro Motorcycle Helmets
Retro Motorcycle Helmets - Style
During the 1950’s wearing a motorcycle helmet became the norm. Prior to that, it was only mandatory for those in the British Army throughout WWII. As companies drew inspiration from already existing helmets, and experimented with different materials, the birth of retro motorcycle helmets as we know them took place.
Egg shaped and bulbous, the style was certainly an elderly ancestor of the modern motorcycle helmets we wear today. Evidently, aerodynamics were not a concern, and safety standards not quite what we’ve come to expect. But like many styles of the past, retro motorcycle helmets have made an incredible comeback, reviving the spirit of the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s.
Barry Sheene in his iconic AGV helmet
The world’s first full face helmet – the Bell Star
Partly due to the iconic looks of racing legends like Barry Sheene and Giacomo Agostini, the core appeal of retro motorcycle helmets, has in truth, never really gone out of fashion. They might not be the most aerodynamic, but they sure as hell are cool! And in this lies the real reason so many riders seek out retro motorcycle helmets; because they want to recreate that cool factor.
Albeit, that retro motorcycle helmets are not suitable for every riding style, they certainly have a stronghold when it comes to café racers and Harley riders. Even scooterists, who don’t want to bear the weight of a conventional motorcycle helmet all day, have turned to retro motorcycle helmets as a lightweight alternative.
From full face models that offer more protection, to open face vintage style motorcycle helmets, there’s a plethora of options on the market today. With more paint patterns available than ever, the choices are seemingly endless when it comes to honing that style and owning the look.
Retro Motorcycle Helmets - Safety
Now, here’s their downfall. Retro motorcycle helmets are not as safe as modern motorcycle helmets. That’s not to say that the full face versions aren’t (more on this below), but it hardly needs mentioning that an open face helmet does not provide as much protection as a full face option. SHARP, who rate hundreds of motorcycle helmets’ safety levels with a star rating out of five, do not even entertain putting open face helmets through their rigorous testing process.
With that said, all helmets for sale in the UK must meet one of the following three standards:
• British Standard BS 6658:1985 and carry the BSI Kitemark
• UNECE Regulation 22.05
• a European Economic Area member standard offering at least the same safety and protection as BS 6658:1985, and carry a mark equivalent to the BSI Kitemark
As long as a helmet complies with the above, it can be worn on British roads. Therefore, open face helmets do provide a sufficient level of safety when it comes to UK regulations. Regarding full face helmets, manufacturers are going above and beyond in some cases, ensuring their retro motorcycle helmets are in line with the more stringent ECE R22-06 safety standards.
When buying a retro motorcycle helmet, safety features to be aware of include chin fastenings, emergency release functions, visors, structural properties, and shell materials.
Practicality & Comfort
Though classic in style, retro motorcycle helmets have not stagnated when it comes to modern design. A new vintage style lid, fresh from manufacturers such as Shoei or Arai, could well include all the latest tech found in your similarly priced generic motorcycle helmet.
Bluetooth compatibility and anti-fog visors are among the few advanced niceties that are no longer excluded from helmets in this range. Moisture wicking and adaptive forming interiors surpass previous levels of comfort, which simply didn’t exist in your old school retro motorcycle helmets. But this is the new wave backed by years of research, so why shouldn’t we combine a bit of lairy paint with a sophisticated ventilation system? We’re trying to reignite the spirit of our forefathers with a modern touch after all!
All jokes aside, it could be argued that retro motorcycle helmets should have a place in every rider’s heart. As part of the history of our sport, of our identity, and the encouragement of our safety, retro motorcycle helmets have not only earned their resurgence in popularity, but have paved the way in motorcycle helmets’ progression prior to doing so.
Pros
It’s A Good Look – There’s no denying that these bobbly lids look awesome! Especially with the right retro motorcycle clothing, and of course, the right bike. Choose a slick paint job, and well, the job’s a good’un.
Lightweight & Less Cumbersome – Typically easier to slide on and off, the main compromises being on robustness and facial coverage.
Tech Savvy – No need to live in the past whilst recreating it. The best retro motorcycle helmets will feature all your mod cons, without breaking the bank.
Affordable Access – The ‘Budget Buys’ below highlight how vintage needn’t mean exclusive or expensive. These are motorcycle helmets, not fine wines!
Cons
Open Face Safety Matter – Not to be repetitive, but a point not to be taken lightly. They say ‘all the gear, all the time’, it’s up to you to what extremes you go. All the helmets in this review comply with the aforementioned UK safety regulations, at a minimum.
Turbulent & Draughty – Due to their shape, some full face models allow too much air in via the chin area. This can lead to a blustery, chilly and noisy head space.
Style Limitations – Unless you have the bike, and let’s say, certain je ne sais quoi, retro motorcycle helmets are rather restrictive. What they lack in versatility and practicality, they more than make up for in style.
Best Full Face Retro Motorcycle Helmets
Top Picks
Arai Concept XE
The leading example of how retro motorcycle helmets can be as safe as any modern lid. The Concept XE is ECE 22.06 certified, and crafted to disperse impact evenly across its multi-composite outer shell.
• Fitted with a secure Double-D chin strap, and a shock absorbing interior.
• Facial Contour System and 5mm ‘Peel Away’ segments allow for a customisable fit.
• VAS MAX Vision visor for all-season clarity, and an Emergency Release System enhance its safety properties.
Bell Bullitt
The Bullitt is a familial descendant of the world’s first full face helmet, the Star. This helmet’s styling pays homage to its predecessor, whilst incorporating the latest tech to make it excel in the present day.
• Strong multi-composite fibreglass construct, earns a 3-star SHARP rating.
• Large visor with brushed aluminium pivot discs, provides a broad field of vision.
• Multi-density EPS liner, shelters a washable anti-bacterial suede interior.
Nexx X.G100 Racer
4-star SHARP rated and light as a feather! Weighing in at just 1.43kg, this headgear suits a range of riding styles, from retro racer to scooter commuter.
• Carbon reinforced, multiaxial fibreglass construct, with special aramid fibres.
• Features X-Mart Dry tech, and an On/Off switch for internal ventilation control.
• Effective chin wind stopper, to prevent discomfort and annoyance.
By City Roadster Carbon 2
Possibly the sexiest vintage style motorcycle helmet available in the UK. Commendably safe, too, with ECE 22.06 certification and a Double-D retention system.
• Carbon by name, carbon fibre by shell construct.
• Fully removable, plush interior, plus an injected visor designed for durability and abrasion resistance.
• Complete with a button down strip for optional retro motorcycle goggles.
Budget Buy
Premier Trophy
Here’s a steal light in weight, that won’t leave your wallet light. 1.22kg of classically designed carbon fibre and epoxy resin, for a very reasonable price.
• Sanitised interior with padded cheeks – comfy, washable and removable.
• Wide view, button lock visor with anti-scratch protection.
• 4-star SHARP rating, for a fraction of the cost of more premium offerings.
Best Open Face Retro Motorcycle Helmets
Top Picks
Bell Custom 500
As a best-seller in the category, the Custom 500’s only drawback is that you won’t be the only rider wearing one! Popularised by its iconic appearance and affordability.
• Constructed of tough composite fibreglass.
• Padded, leather, Double-D fastening.
• Compatible with snap on visors and shields, thanks to its integrated 5 button pattern.
Shoei J-O
In typical Shoei fashion, the J-O is both well made and high quality. Inclusive of a contoured visor, which adds protection and comfort to minimise distraction.
• Unique AIM glass fibre and organic fibre shell build.
• Goggle belt, as alternative to 3 point locking CJ-3 visor.
• Multi-density foam interior, in addition to a conveniently removable and washable liner.
HJC V31
A vintage style, open face motorcycle helmet with a touch of class. Its luxurious leather and suede interior, combined with an internal smoke sun visor, set it apart from equivalently priced options.
• Removable cheek pads accompany speaker pockets ready to house Bluetooth intercoms.
• Lightweight fibreglass construct, dependable and robust.
• 3 snap buttons compatible with optional look defining peak.
Budget Buys
Duchini D501
Ideal as a first helmet, the Duchini D501 has cheap and cheerful covered in spades. If you’re not bothered about showing off your new lid, this baby could save you a few quid.
• Solid thermo-resin construct, fastened by a quick release, seat belt style buckle.
• Integrated sun visor, with anti-scratch and abrasion resistant qualities.
• Fully removable and washable, comfortable textile inner lining.
Spada Open Face Classic
Rejoicing in simplicity, this budget friendly Spada concentrates on nailing the basics. An attractive price tag compliments its somewhat attractive design.
• Outer shell constructed of moulded thermoplastic.
• Includes Spada insignia, a removable peak, and goggle strap.
• Simple and secure fastening, easily operated while wearing gloves.
Best Off-Road Retro Motorcycle Helmets
Top Picks
Shoei Ex-Zero
Overtly aggressively styled, the highly rated Ex-Zero exudes a competitive heritage. It achieves a 4-star SHARP accolade, due to its AIM multi-composite fibre layered shell.
• Emergency Quick Release System, for time saving removal in case of an accident.
• Safeguarding, adjustable CJ-3 visor.
• Impact absorbing EPS liner acts as a second defense against forces in a collision.
HJC V60
Compared to others in the scrambler bracket, the V60 offers superior levels of comfort for an off-road retro helmet. With both moisture wicking and fast drying traits, it’s designed to keep the rider cool and clear of sweat for ultimate concentration.
• ECE 22.06 approved, fibreglass outer shell.
• Multiple eyewear options including grooves for glasses, a strap for goggles, and one-touch quick deploying sun visor.
• Removable peak as standard, plus removable interior that can be washed.
Bell Moto 3
Probably the coolest looking off-road retro motorcycle helmet that would spark any rider’s rival’s envy. Definitely turns heads whilst protecting yours!
• EPS lined chin bar, beneath a fibreglass composite shell – ECE 22.06 approved.
• Fully removable and washable internal, for post race cleaning.
• Five snap visor, mesh vents and an eyecatching decal give the ‘wow, that’s a bloody cool helmet’ factor!
Budget Buy
By City The Rock
Take yourself back in time, with the unmistakable By City The Rock retro scrambler helmet. Possessing a fibreglass outer shell, and protective inner shell, it passes ECE 22.06 regulation.
• Double-D retention system, near the well ventilated chin guard grilles.
• Goggle strap and snap on visor buttons, for an authentic vintage look.
• Lined with soft on the skin faux leather, for added comfort.
The timeless style of retro motorcycle gear exists in its finest forms nowadays. By making the most of today’s tech, and mashing it together with yesteryear’s boldness, top brands have remodelled the vintage lid so they now look and perform better than ever imagined.
As their popularity continues to rise like a blue chip stock option, the future looks set for further improvement and variation. We as riders are the ones to benefit, as airs of nostalgia are blown our way, only enhanced by the modern research that they carry with them.
What better to do, than to mull over our options, and enjoy reliving the past.
Feel free to Contact RUK with any queries you may have regarding this article, or visit the How To Choose Your Riding Gear page for further guidance and useful information.