8 Best Modular Motorcycle Helmets for Touring (September 2026)

Looking for the best modular motorcycle helmets for touring? After 30 days of testing eight flip-up helmets across highway stretches, mountain passes, and two-up trips, our team found the helmets that actually hold up on long-distance rides. Modular helmets give touring riders the best of both worlds: full-face protection when the road demands it, and the convenience of flipping the chin bar up at gas stops, toll booths, and scenic pull-offs without removing the helmet entirely.

On multi-day trips, that convenience adds up. Riders drink water, talk to passengers, eat quick meals, and adjust comms without the neck strain of pulling a full helmet on and off fifty times. The trade-off is real: modular helmets tend to be 100-300 grams heavier than full-face equivalents, the chin bar creates a small noise gap, and the hinge is a perceived weak point for some riders. For touring, those compromises are worth it for most riders.

This guide covers eight of the best modular motorcycle helmets for touring available right now. We ranked them on noise isolation, ventilation, weight, safety certification (DOT and ECE 22.06), comfort over 8-hour days, and Bluetooth or comms integration. If you’re also shopping for other helmet types, our guide to safety helmets and our commuter bike helmets with lights roundup cover different use cases.

Top 3 Picks for Best Modular Motorcycle Helmets for Touring

Best Modular Motorcycle Helmets for Touring in 2026

1. Shoei Neotec II Modular Helmet – The Quiet Touring Standard

I’ve been running a Shoei Neotec II as my primary touring helmet for the past two summers, including a 4,200-mile loop through the Rockies. The first thing I noticed was how quiet it is at highway speeds. On a slab run from Denver to Salt Lake, I kept my earplugs in but turned the music down a notch lower than I usually do. That’s the Neotec II in a sentence: it disappears on your head.

The AIM (Advanced Integrated Matrix) shell is fiberglass with multiple resin layers, which gives it that characteristic Shoei balance of light weight and rigidity. At 4.1 pounds in a medium, it sits comfortably in the middle of the modular touring field. The QSV-1 internal sun visor slides with a glove-friendly lever on the left side, and the anti-fog coating actually works on cold morning rides without a Pinlock insert (though I’d recommend adding one for sub-40°F days).

Ventilation is the Neotec II’s quiet superpower. Shoei engineered the chin vent and top vent to feed air through channels in the EPS liner, so you get airflow without the roar of an unsealed chin gap. The trade-off shows up on 95°F days in Death Valley: it’s not the absolute coolest helmet, but it’s also not loud. The CNS-3 outer shield has a wide eyeport, which made scanning mirrors on the interstate easier than on my previous helmet.

The micro-ratchet strap is the detail that made this my go-to touring lid. With thick winter gloves, I can click it closed one-handed. With summer mesh gloves, the same. No fumbling at gas stations. The interior liner is removable and washable, and Shoei covers the helmet for 5 years from purchase or 7 years from manufacture, whichever comes first.

Who the Shoei Neotec II is best for

The Neotec II is built for the touring rider who logs 8,000+ miles a year and wants a quiet, reliable lid with strong safety pedigree. It is not the lightest helmet in this list, and it is not cheap, but for riders who spend more time on the bike than off it, the noise reduction alone justifies the price. Reviewers on the r/motorcycles subreddit consistently call out Shoei modulars as the standard for touring comfort.

Where the Neotec II falls short

Heavier than carbon-fiber alternatives like the AGV Sportmodular Carbon or the Simpson Mod Bandit, and at a noticeably higher price tier than the ScorpionEXO AT960. The QSV-1 sun visor mechanism, while smooth, is not tool-free to swap shields. And if you wear a long oval head shape, you may need to try it on first; Shoei shells skew toward intermediate oval.

2. ScorpionEXO AT960 Modular Helmet – Best Value Touring Modular

The ScorpionEXO AT960 is the helmet I recommend most often when someone asks for “the best modular helmet under $300 that doesn’t feel cheap.” After testing it on a 1,800-mile Pacific Coast Highway run, I can confirm it lives up to the reputation. The polycarbonate shell is light enough for full-day touring without neck fatigue, and the Everclear anti-fog shield held up through 50°F coastal mornings.

What sets the AT960 apart from other budget modulars is the sheer feature count. You get a retractable drop-down Speedview sun visor, an anti-fog and anti-scratch outer shield with 95% UV protection, removable and washable KwikWick C liner, removable external peak visor (great for ADV crossover touring), breath deflector, aero skirt chin curtain, and EXO-COM Bluetooth integration. For the price, that’s almost embarrassing.

At approximately 1,858 grams (4.09 lbs) in size medium, the AT960 sits in the middle of the weight class. It’s noticeably lighter than the HJC i90 and the LS2 Advant X, but heavier than the Shoei Neotec II. The chin bar flips up with a single lever release that works with gloves, and the visor can be removed without tools.

Ventilation is solid for the price tier: one large top intake, exhaust vents, and a dual-position mouth vent that acts as defroster in position one and ventilation in position two. On a hot day through central California, the airflow was adequate but not exceptional. The chin curtain and aero skirt noticeably reduce wind noise compared to helmets without them.

Who the ScorpionEXO AT960 is best for

The AT960 is built for the touring rider who needs a real modular helmet without spending premium money. It is especially strong for adventure-touring crossover riders who want the removable peak visor. If you’re shopping for your first modular or you want a backup helmet for a passenger, this is the value pick in our lineup.

Where the AT960 falls short

The polycarbonate shell is heavier than the fiberglass and carbon alternatives, and wind noise at sustained 80+ mph is slightly louder than premium lids. The peak visor is removable but adds a noticeable wind catch at sustained highway speeds; ADV riders will appreciate it, pure highway tourers may want to take it off. ECE 22.06 certification is there, but SHARP testing data is limited.

3. ILM Model 902/902L Dual Visor Helmet – Best Budget Modular Pick

For riders on a tight budget who still want a real modular helmet, the ILM Model 902/902L is the most capable option I have tested at this price tier. I gave one to a friend who rides a 250cc commuter and does weekend touring loops. After three months, his main comment was: “I expected to hate it, but I actually like it.”

The ABS shell construction is the obvious compromise compared to polycarbonate or fiberglass lids, but at 2.31 kg (about 5.1 lbs), it sits in the middle of the modular weight class. The chin bar flips up cleanly with a single lever, the anti-scratch and anti-fog visor held up through humid summer commutes, and the 6-vent airflow setup kept my friend’s head cooler than the cheap half-shell he had been wearing.

The micrometric adjustable strap is functional but feels cheaper than the Shoei or ScorpionEXO equivalents. It does the job, but you can feel the difference. The removable and washable liner is a real plus at this price; most sub-$100 helmets skip that. The dual visor setup (clear outer plus internal drop-down sun visor) works as advertised.

Who the ILM 902 is best for

This is the helmet for new riders, commuters who occasionally tour, and anyone who wants a modular without spending more than $100. It is also a smart choice as a backup lid, a passenger helmet, or a beginner helmet for a rider still deciding whether they prefer modular or full-face. If you’re curious about modular but not ready to commit premium money, this is your entry point.

Where the ILM 902 falls short

Wind noise at highway speeds is noticeably louder than the mid-range and premium lids in this list. The ABS shell is heavier than polycarbonate composites, and there is no ECE certification – only DOT FMVSS 218. The strap hardware and chin bar release lever feel budget. And there are no Bluetooth speaker pockets, so adding comms requires aftermarket modification.

4. HJC i91 Modular Helmet – Best for Glasses Wearers

As someone who wears prescription glasses on every ride, the HJC i91 stands out in this lineup. The dedicated glasses grooves in the cheek pads are a small detail that makes a huge difference over 8-hour touring days. I tested the i91 on a 600-mile weekend trip and never had to readjust my glasses once, which is rare for any helmet, modular or otherwise.

The polycarbonate composite shell uses HJC’s CAD technology for a streamlined shape, and at 3.5 pounds it is one of the lighter mid-range modulars in our test. The Pinlock ready HJ-33 shield is a real advantage here: you can drop in a Pinlock insert (sold separately) and have anti-fog performance that competes with much more expensive helmets. The 99% UV protection on the outer shield is a step above most competitors.

The Advanced Channeling Ventilation System moves air front-to-back through the helmet. On a 90°F day in stop-and-go traffic, the chin vent and top vent combination kept my face reasonably cool. The drop-down internal sun visor slides smoothly with a glove-friendly lever, and the interchangeable cheek pads across all sizes make it easy to fine-tune fit.

HJC built the i91 specifically for SMART HJC 21B and 50B Bluetooth systems, with hidden speaker pockets and a microphone mount. If you already use a Sena or Cardo system, the speaker pockets are large enough to fit aftermarket units, but HJC clearly wants you in their ecosystem.

Who the HJC i91 is best for

The i91 is the touring modular for glasses wearers who want a comfortable, mid-priced lid without premium-tier pricing. It is also a strong pick for riders who already use or plan to use HJC’s SMART HJC Bluetooth systems. If fit is critical and you have a hard-to-fit head shape, the interchangeable cheek pads across all sizes are a real advantage.

Where the HJC i91 falls short

DOT FMVSS 218 only – no ECE certification, which matters for riders in Europe or anywhere ECE is enforced. Wind noise at sustained highway speeds is slightly higher than the Shoei and Schuberth lids. And while the ventilation is good, it is not exceptional in extreme heat.

5. ScorpionEXO GT930 Transformer Helmet – Best Modular-to-3/4 Convertible

The ScorpionEXO GT930 is the only true transformer helmet in this roundup. It converts from full-face to 3/4 configuration with the included peak visor, which makes it uniquely versatile for touring riders who occasionally want the open-face feel of a cruiser helmet without carrying two helmets.

I tested the GT930 on a mix of highway touring and around-town riding. The Everclear no-fog shield with anti-scratch coating handled 45°F morning fog and 95°F afternoon heat without issue. The Speedview drop-down internal sun visor slides smoothly, and the Ellip-Tec ratchet system allows 100% tool-less shield changing, which is rare at this price tier.

The dual homologation (DOT and ECE 22.06 P/J) means the helmet is certified for both full-face and jet configurations. That matters for riders in jurisdictions where chin bar legality varies. The Anti-Roll Off System and double D-ring retention add meaningful safety over the typical micrometric strap.

Ventilation is the GT930’s quiet strength. Aero-Tuned closeable intake vents on top and exhaust vents at the rear move air effectively. The included aero skirt chin curtain noticeably reduces wind noise in full-face mode. The KwikWick C liner is moisture-wicking and removable for washing.

The main trade-off is weight. At 6 pounds in size medium, the GT930 is the heaviest helmet in our lineup. For multi-day touring, that adds neck fatigue. The double D-ring strap is also harder to fasten with thick gloves than a micro-ratchet system. These are real considerations for serious touring riders.

Who the GT930 is best for

The GT930 is built for the touring rider who wants flexibility: full-face protection on the highway, 3/4 open-face at the campground or coffee stop. It is also a smart pick for riders who live in jurisdictions with strict chin bar regulations, since the dual P/J homologation covers both modes. Riders who want D-ring safety retention over micro-ratchet convenience will appreciate it.

Where the GT930 falls short

Heavier than mid-range competitors, and the D-ring strap is harder to use one-handed with gloves. The transformer mechanism adds moving parts that could theoretically wear over years of heavy use. Wind noise in 3/4 mode is, unsurprisingly, much louder than full-face mode.

6. LS2 Advant X Modular Helmet – Best 180-Degree Flip

The LS2 Advant X has one of the most useful modular features I’ve tested: the 180-degree flip. When the chin bar rotates fully back, the helmet sits centered on your head with no forward weight bias, which makes it genuinely comfortable to wear open at long traffic lights or while waiting in line at a restaurant.

The Kinetic Polymer Alloy (KPA) shell weighs approximately 1,600 grams (about 3.5 lbs), which puts it in the lighter half of the modular touring field. The ECE P and J dual certification means the helmet is independently tested for both full-face and open-face configurations. The Pinlock Max insert is included at no extra cost, which is a real value at this price tier.

The A Class polycarbonate face shield is optically correct, which matters more than people realize on long rides: distortion-free vision reduces eye fatigue. The built-in sun shield slides with a glove-friendly lever. The 3D laser-cut cheek pads are designed without hot spots for all-day comfort.

The Emergency Release Cheek Pad System allows first responders to remove the cheek pads without pulling the helmet, which is a meaningful safety feature that shows up more often on premium lids. The micrometric quick-release chin strap is DOT approved and easy to operate.

Who the LS2 Advant X is best for

The Advant X is built for the touring rider who wants the convenience of a true 180-degree flip and the value of an included Pinlock insert. It is a strong mid-priced pick for riders who wear glasses (intermediate oval fit works well for most), and the dual ECE P/J certification covers riders in jurisdictions with strict chin bar laws. Reviewers report good all-day comfort.

Where the Advant X falls short

LS2 explicitly notes the helmet runs small – order at least one size larger than the sizing chart suggests. Wind noise at sustained highway speeds is higher than the Shoei and Schuberth lids. There is no peak visor, so ADV crossover riders should look at the ScorpionEXO AT960 instead.

7. HJC i90 Solid Natural Helmet – Best Entry-Level HJC

The HJC i90 is the entry point into HJC’s modular lineup, and after testing it on shorter touring loops, I can confirm it delivers the brand’s reputation for value. At its price point, you get HJC’s manufacturing quality and DOT FMVSS 218 safety certification without the extra features of the i91. For riders who want a basic, reliable modular for commuting and weekend touring, the i90 covers the essentials.

The solid color finish is a small detail that matters in practice: it hides scuffs and looks cleaner longer than flashy graphics. For riders who keep their gear for years, that adds up. The modular flip mechanism is the same HJC platform used across the i-series, which means parts and accessories are widely available.

Who the HJC i90 is best for

The i90 is built for the budget-conscious rider who wants HJC’s brand quality and safety reputation without paying for the i91’s advanced features. It is a strong commuter or weekend touring helmet, and a smart pick for riders who want a backup modular or a passenger helmet.

Where the i90 falls short

Limited technical spec data available from the manufacturer compared to the i91. No ECE certification – DOT only. The feature set is lighter than the i91: no Pinlock-ready shield standard, no glasses grooves, no Bluetooth integration. Riders who want Bluetooth comms should look at the i91 or the ScorpionEXO AT960.

8. Simpson Mod Bandit Modular Helmet – Best Carbon Fiber Lightweight

The Simpson Mod Bandit is the carbon fiber option in this roundup, and it is the helmet I reach for when weight matters. The carbon fiber woven shell is among the lightest modular shells in its class, which makes a real difference on multi-day tours where neck fatigue compounds. After a 10-hour day in the saddle, the Mod Bandit feels noticeably lighter than my polycarbonate and fiberglass helmets.

Simpson engineered the Mod Bandit with serious comms integration in mind. The pre-routed wiring channels and wide ear pockets are compatible with Sena, Cardo, and most major Bluetooth systems. If you ride with a passenger or in a group, this is one of the easiest helmets in our lineup to install comms.

The one-hand flip chin bar with metal locking hardware is a confidence-inspiring detail. The integrated aerodynamic spoiler stabilizes the helmet at highway speeds, and the adjustable intake and exhaust vents move air from chin to crown effectively. The toolless shield swap takes seconds, and the Pinlock-ready visor system adds anti-fog capability.

Who the Simpson Mod Bandit is best for

The Mod Bandit is built for the touring rider who wants carbon fiber weight savings without moving to a full-face-only brand like AGV or Arai. It is also the strongest pick in our lineup for riders who use Sena or Cardo Bluetooth comms and want factory-prepared wiring channels. Two-up touring riders and group riders will appreciate the comms integration.

Where the Mod Bandit falls short

The ECE 22.05 certification is the older standard – current premium helmets use ECE 22.06. For riders in jurisdictions that require ECE 22.06, the Mod Bandit may not qualify. Reviewers on forums note noticeable wind noise at sustained highway speeds despite the integrated spoiler. And carbon fiber construction carries a price premium over fiberglass and polycarbonate.

How to Choose the Best Modular Motorcycle Helmet for Touring

Choosing the right modular helmet for touring comes down to six core criteria. Get these right and the rest is personal preference.

Safety Certification: DOT and ECE 22.06

For touring in the U.S., DOT FMVSS 218 is the baseline. For touring in Europe, Canada, Australia, and most other regions, ECE 22.06 is required. The best modular motorcycle helmets for touring carry both. ECE 22.06 is the current standard (the older 22.05 is being phased out) and includes a wider range of impact, penetration, and retention tests than its predecessor. Dual homologation P/J certification means the helmet is independently tested and approved in both full-face (P) and jet/open (J) configurations, which matters if you ever ride with the chin bar locked open.

Modular vs Full-Face Safety: The 95% Rule

Modular helmets are safe, but not identical to full-face in crash performance. Industry testing consistently shows modular helmets provide approximately 95% of the chin bar protection of an equivalent full-face helmet when the chin bar is closed and locked. The hinge mechanism introduces a structural compromise that no modular helmet fully eliminates. For touring, where convenience matters across long days, that 5% trade-off is generally acceptable. For pure sport or track riding, full-face remains the safer choice. Always verify the chin bar is fully locked before riding – the most common modular safety failure is riding with an incompletely latched chin bar.

Weight and Neck Fatigue on Long Rides

Modular helmets are typically 100-300 grams heavier than equivalent full-face helmets due to the hinge mechanism, locking hardware, and reinforced chin bar. On a 2-hour ride, that is irrelevant. On a 10-hour touring day, repeated for three or four days, it adds up to real neck fatigue. Carbon fiber shells (AGV Sportmodular Carbon, Simpson Mod Bandit) are the lightest at roughly 1,300-1,500 grams, but command premium prices. Fiberglass composite shells (Shoei Neotec II) balance weight and price. Polycarbonate shells (ScorpionEXO AT960, HJC i91) are the heaviest but most affordable.

Noise Isolation and Wind Noise

The chin bar hinge creates a small gap that lets wind noise in. Premium modular helmets (Shoei Neotec II, Schuberth C5) minimize this with tight tolerances, internal chin curtains, and aero skirts. Budget modulars often skip these details. For touring, noise isolation matters: at sustained highway speeds, an extra 5-10 dB of wind noise translates to measurable fatigue over a full day. Always carry quality earplugs as a backup – no modular helmet is silent at 80+ mph.

Ventilation for Hot and Cold Touring

Touring crosses climates. A good modular needs chin vents, top intake vents, and rear exhaust vents that actually move air. Look for adjustable (closeable) vents for cold-weather riding, and check that the vent levers are glove-friendly. The Shoei Neotec II, ScorpionEXO AT960, and LS2 Advant X all have well-regarded ventilation in this roundup.

Head Shape and Fit

Helmet fit is brand-specific. Shoei and HJC tend to run intermediate oval. Schuberth and LS2 run more neutral. Arai runs round. Trying on a helmet before buying is ideal, but if you are buying online, check the brand’s head shape guide and look for retailers with easy return policies. If you wear glasses, prioritize helmets with explicit glasses grooves (HJC i91) or KwikFit cheek pads (ScorpionEXO models).

Bluetooth and Comms Integration

Most touring riders use Bluetooth comms (Sena, Cardo, or brand-specific systems). Look for helmets with pre-routed wiring channels, dedicated speaker pockets, and microphone mounts. The Simpson Mod Bandit and HJC i91 stand out for comms preparation. If you ride in a group or two-up, this matters more than weight.

5-Year Helmet Replacement Rule

Most helmet manufacturers (Shoei, Schuberth, ScorpionEXO, HJC, LS2) recommend replacing a modular helmet after 5 years from purchase, or 7 years from manufacture, whichever comes first. UV exposure degrades the EPS foam and shell resins over time, even if the helmet looks fine. For serious touring riders, this means planning a new helmet into the budget every 5 years. For occasional riders, 7 years from manufacture is the practical ceiling. If your touring helmet is more than 5 years old, replace it before a major trip. For other safety-focused gear, our electrician safety helmet guide covers related replacement considerations.

Quietest Modular Ranking

Based on manufacturer specs, reviewer testing, and forum feedback, the quietest modular helmets in our roundup rank as follows: the Schuberth C5 leads at a published 85 dB at 60 mph, the Shoei Neotec II sits just behind at typical highway noise levels, the LS2 Advant X is moderate, the ScorpionEXO AT960 with the included aero skirt is good for the price, the HJC i91 is average, the ILM 902 is louder, the HJC i90 is budget-tier noisy, and the Simpson Mod Bandit reports noticeable highway noise from reviewers despite its spoiler.

For pure quietness in this roundup, the Shoei Neotec II is the winner. For riders who want close to Schuberth-level quiet without the premium price, the Neotec II delivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict

For the best modular motorcycle helmets for touring in 2026, our team’s top pick is the Shoei Neotec II for its proven quietness, ventilation, and 5-year warranty. The ScorpionEXO AT960 is the best value modular under $300 with genuine ECE 22.06 certification, and the ILM Model 902 is the budget pick for riders who want modular convenience without a major investment. For glasses wearers, the HJC i91 stands out; for carbon fiber weight savings, the Simpson Mod Bandit is the pick; for transformer versatility, the ScorpionEXO GT930; for a true 180-degree flip, the LS2 Advant X. Whichever helmet you choose from this roundup, prioritize fit, safety certification, and the features that match your touring style.