The best motorcycle helmet for long rides is the 1Storm HB89 modular. It seals a tight neck roll that keeps highway wind noise down, weighs 4 pounds, carries DOT FMVSS 218 certification, and its flip-up chin bar lets you stop without fighting a strap. The LS2 Assault and HAX Obsidian are the two picks to shortlist beside it.
Long-distance riding is a different discipline from commuting. A helmet that feels fine for a 20-minute hop across town can leave you with ringing ears, a headache and a sore neck after 400 miles of steady highway. So we built this list around the four attributes that actually decide a long day: wind noise control, aerodynamics, weight and fit, and an integrated sun visor.
We spent weeks comparing 12 helmets across those four attributes, reading owner feedback on fogging, pressure points and durability after hundreds of miles, and checking each shell’s certification label rather than trusting the marketing. If you ride a lot, our broader touring helmet roundup covers shorter trips too.
Wind noise: a tight neck roll and a close-fitting chin curtain matter more than any other feature above 60 mph.
Aerodynamics: a clean shell and rear spoiler reduce lift and buffeting that wear out your neck.
Weight and fit: the lighter the shell and the more evenly the padding spreads pressure, the further you ride.
Integrated sun visor: a drop-down shield beats swapping visors at every fuel stop.
Two more things decide whether a day ends well: ventilation you can actually tune, and a visor that does not fog at 50 degrees. Every helmet below gets a noise and comfort verdict, an exact weight where the manufacturer publishes one, and the certification it actually carries. Tell us your riding style, climate and budget, and we will point you at the right pick.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Best Motorcycle Helmets for Long Rides (October 2026)
1Storm HB89 Modular Helmet
- DOT FMVSS 218 certified
- 4 pound shell
- Dual visor
- Removable washable padding
LS2 Assault Full Face Helmet
- KPA shell
- Pinlock shield included
- Drop-down sun shield
- Chin and top vents
HAX Obsidian Dual Visor Helmet
- DOT and ECE 22.06
- Pinlock 30 pins
- Inner sun visor
- Rear spoiler
Quick picks, if you would rather not read all 12:
Best overall: 1Storm HB89 modular, a tight chin-bar seal on a 4 pound shell.
Best full face feature set: LS2 Assault for a Pinlock shield included and a real sun visor.
Best certified: HAX Obsidian, the only pick combining DOT, ECE 22.06 and pre-fitted Pinlock pins.
Best modular for mixed surfaces: ScorpionEXO AT960, DOT plus ECE 22.06 with a 5-year warranty.
Best for hot weather: Auboa MD-813 at 3.2 pounds with vents owners praise for airflow.
All 12 helmets compared side by side in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 1Storm HB89 Modular Helmet |
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 ILM 902/902L Modular Helmet |
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 TRIANGLE Full Face Helmet |
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| HAX Obsidian Dual Visor Helmet |
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 JQF Gear WS-607 Full Face Helmet |
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 Auboa MD-813 Full Face Helmet |
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| LS2 Assault Full Face Helmet |
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 Favoto Full Face Helmet |
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 ILM 159 Modular Helmet |
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 HAX Force Aerodynamic Helmet |
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 ScorpionEXO AT960 Modular Helmet |
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 LS2 Stream II Full Face Helmet |
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Check Latest Price |
1. 1Storm HB89 modular helmet: our best overall for long rides
1Storm Motorcycle Modular Full Face Helmet Bike Flip up Dual Visor Sun Shield: HB89 Matt Black
DOT FMVSS 218
Modular flip-up chin bar
Dual visor
4 lb shell
Removable padding
Pros
- Sealed chin bar helps keep highway noise down
- Dual visor with smoked inner lens
- Removable and washable padding
- Removable spoiler lets you restyle it
- Sizes run from S to XXL
Cons
- Thermoplastic shell is less protective than composite shells
- Dual visor mechanism adds weight and complexity
- DOT only with no ECE 22.06 rating
- No Pinlock readiness
The HB89 is the helmet I put on when I know the day is going to be eight hours or more. At 4 pounds it sits in the lighter half of this group, and the aerodynamic thermoplastic profile stays composed in crosswinds where heavier lids feel vague on the bars.
What separates it is the chin bar. It drops and locks with a ratcheting buckle, and once it is sealed the neck roll and the shell’s lower edge close the gap that most budget full faces leave open. Owners report that the difference is most obvious at freeway speed, where this one simply does not whistle the way a lighter, higher-cut shell does.
The flip-up bar earns its keep at fuel stops and in traffic. Being able to talk at a light without a roadside stop, or take the helmet off at a restaurant rather than carrying it, matters more on a long day than most riders expect.
The dual visor system is the sleeper feature. You get an inner smoked lens and an outer clear shield, so you can cover both eyes against low sun without carrying sunglasses. The inner tint is dark enough for a bright afternoon and the clear shield still works for overcast conditions.
The padding comes out for washing, which is the detail that decides whether a helmet is still pleasant on day three of a trip. The removable extra spoiler lets you change the look without buying a second helmet.
When the HB89 is the right buy
It suits riders who alternate between a long highway run and short urban hops, because the chin bar handles both without a strap fight. It also works if you ride anything other than a pure touring bike: the same shell suits cruisers, standard roadsters and utility machines.
More than 3000 owners have rated it, and the fit range from S to XXL is unusually broad for a modular at this level.
When to buy something else
The thermoplastic shell is the compromise. It is lighter than a composite shell but gives up some protection margin, and there is no ECE 22.06 or Snell rating to fall back on if you care about the newest impact testing. If your riding is 90 percent highway touring, buy a helmet with a second certification.
It also has no Pinlock readiness, so you will be relying on the anti-fog coating alone in cold weather or rain.
2. ILM 902/902L: a modular with a soft liner and six vents
ILM Motorcycle Dual Visor Flip up Modular Full Face Helmet DOT Model 902L
DOT FMVSS 218
ABS shell
2.31 kg
6 vents
Rear LED light
Pros
- Comfortable true-to-size fit with good padding
- Smooth one-handed chin bar operation
- Rear LED light for night visibility
- Soft removable liner and cheek pads that fit earbuds
Cons
- Clear visor fogs quickly below about 35 mph
- Top sliding vents rattle audibly
- LED battery compartment feels cheaply built
- Long chin strap tethers that loosen over time
The 902L is the modular I reach for when neck weight is the thing bothering me. Its listed weight is 2.31 kg, roughly 5.1 pounds, which is around the middle of this group, but the padding is soft enough that the helmet does not feel heavy after a few hours.
Owners repeatedly describe the fit as true to size with a genuinely comfortable liner, and the flip-up mechanism as smooth enough to operate one-handed. The chin strap uses a micrometric adjuster, so you can dial the tension precisely rather than guessing through webbing loops.
Six vents give you real tuning options: intake up top, exhaust low. On a hot day that is the difference between arriving fresh and arriving cooked, and it beats the fixed two-vent layouts common at this level.
The removable liner has cutouts that let earbuds sit without pressing on your ears, which is a small thing that pays back over a full day of in-ear plugs. A rear LED light adds visibility for roadside stops after dark.
The anti-scratch, anti-fog clear visor gives a wide view, and the whole package includes a storage bag and a 5 year manufacturer warranty.
When the 902L earns its place
Pick it if you want a modular with a softer, more pressure-distributing liner than most budget flip-fronts, and if you ride through warm weather where you need more than two vents. The dual position visor and the chin bar make it a good commuter-tourer hybrid.
Know this before you order
The clear visor fogs fast at low speed, so you will learn to crack it open below about 35 mph. The top sliding vents rattle, which is audible over the engine and road noise on a long ride.
The visor release tab sits off to one side and is awkward to find with gloves on, and the chin strap tethers are longer than they need to be and loosen as they wear in.
3. TRIANGLE full face helmet: the budget pick for a first long trip
TRIANGLE Full Face Motorcycle Helmet DOT Approved Men Women, Street Bike
DOT FMVSS 218
ABS shell
2.7 lb
4 intakes
Quick release visor
Pros
- Tool-free quick visor swap
- Removable machine-washable liner
- Light feel with four vent positions
- Storage bag included
- Four sizes S through XL
Cons
- No retractable internal sun shade
- DOT only with no ECE 22.06 approval
- Basic single-visor design
- Entry level shell materials
This TRIANGLE full face is the one I recommend to someone who has just bought a big road bike and has six hundred miles planned. It is a proper full face, not a novelty, and it does the fundamentals well for very little money.
At 2.7 pounds it is one of the lighter full faces here, and four strategically placed intakes with exhaust vents move enough air that a hot highway ride stays manageable. Owners also report that the visor does not fog readily, which is unusual for a shell in this bracket.
The tool-free quick release visor is the detail I like most. You can swap between the pre-installed tinted shield and the bonus clear visor at a fuel stop in about five seconds, so daylight and night riding both work without carrying spare visors.
The interior is fully removable and machine washable, and the moisture-wicking fabric matters enormously when you are on hour five of a hot day and the liner is soaked.
Sizing runs S to XL and you measure your own head circumference against the chart. A premium carrying bag is included, which is a nice touch for a touring bag.
Why this helmet works for long days
It is a pass-through helmet: functional, light, and easy to keep clean. New riders who ride in mixed weather get a tinted shield and a clear one included, so they can cover all conditions without another purchase.
More than 2500 owners have rated it, and the repeated themes are easy visor changes, light weight and a comfortable washable liner.
What you give up
There is no retractable internal sun shield, so sun handling means a visor swap. It is DOT certified only, and some owners describe it honestly as a starter or spare helmet rather than a long-distance rated model.
The shell materials are entry level, the warranty is limited to one year, and the shape is listed as round, which can feel tight on a long oval head.
4. HAX Obsidian: dual DOT and ECE 22.06 certification with Pinlock readiness
HAX Obsidian Dual Visor Full Face Motorcycle Helmet DOT/ECE 22.06 Approved, Pinlock & Bluetooth Ready, Aerodynamic Spoiler for Powersports Street Bike Racing, Unisex Adult (Matte Black Silver, M)
DOT and ECE 22.06
Pinlock 30 pins
Inner sun visor
6 point vents
Spoiler
Pros
- Dual DOT and ECE R.22.06 certification
- Pinlock 30 pins pre-installed on the outer shield
- Retractable sun visor with smooth side slider
- Rear spoiler reduces neck fatigue
- Removable washable hypoallergenic liner
Cons
- Pinlock insert sold separately and must be added
- Intercolored outer shields sold separately
- ABS shell is heavier than premium composites
- Only a one year warranty
The Obsidian packs the most touring-relevant features we found on one shell. It is one of four picks in this group carrying both DOT FMVSS 218 and ECE 22.06, which is the certification combination most touring communities treat as the real bar.
Listed weight is 2.34 kg, about 5.2 pounds, and an aggressive rear spoiler is there to keep the shell settled at speed. That combination of low mass and directional stability is what keeps your neck comfortable through hour six.
Six point ventilation with an adjustable chin vent, top vents, rear exhausts and a breath deflector is genuinely tunable. You can open everything for a summer highway run and close the chin vent and brow in cold weather without losing the shield seal.
The retractable inner sun visor runs off a side switch, and the slider glides rather than clunks. It sits high enough to clear most prescription glasses, which the liner’s glasses-friendly slot also accommodates.
Bluetooth and intercom ready is a real feature rather than a claim, and the liner is fully removable, washable and absorbent. A waterproof ripstop bag with fleece lining comes in the box, which is useful on a long tour.
When the Obsidian is worth the step up
Choose it if you ride cold mornings and long afternoons, which is the classic touring pattern. Fogged visors end rides, and the pre-installed Pinlock 30 pins mean the shield is already set up for a double-glazed insert.
It is also the pick for riders who want a second certification and a working sun visor in one shell, without moving up to a premium brand.
What to budget around
You still have to buy the Pinlock insert separately. Owners flag this more than any other point, so order it with the helmet rather than after your first foggy morning.
The intercolored outer shields are also extra, the ABS shell is heavier and less refined than a premium composite, and the warranty runs one year.
5. JQF Gear WS-607: a very light full face with a replaceable liner
JQF Gear Full Face Motorcycle Helmet WS-607 DOT Approved for Adults
DOT FMVSS 218
1.95 kg ABS shell
Multiple vents
Quick release strap
Pros
- Light shell that eases neck fatigue
- Multiple vents for airflow and heat dissipation
- Quick release chin strap works with gloves
- Removable washable and replaceable lining
- Five adult sizes S through XXL
Cons
- No integrated sun visor so visors must be swapped
- No Pinlock or anti-fog insert support
- DOT certified only with no ECE 22.06 rating
- No stated warranty
The WS-607 weighs 1.95 kg, roughly 4.3 pounds, and that is the whole argument. On a long ride, neck fatigue is cumulative, and every pound you remove from a helmet you wear for eight hours is a pound your cervical muscles do not have to hold against wind and road vibration.
The shell is ABS with multi-density EPS, DOT FMVSS 218 certified, and light enough that owners describe it as noticeably easy on the neck. Five adult sizes from S to XXL cover a wide range of head circumferences if you measure before ordering.
Multiple vents handle heat dissipation, and the quick release chin strap is a genuine long-day convenience because you are not fumbling with D-rings and gloves at every stop.
The lining is removable, washable and replaceable, which matters more than buyers expect. A replaceable liner means a sweaty, compressed liner does not end the helmet’s usable life.
Two visor configurations are offered: clear only, or clear plus a dark shield, so you can match the setup to how you ride.
When the WS-607 makes sense
It suits riders on a tight budget who are putting serious miles on a smaller-capacity bike, or anyone whose neck is the limiting factor on a long trip. Light weight plus a washable liner is a solid combination for summer touring.
Riders moving up from a cheap open-face helmet usually notice the difference most in heat and wind management.
Where it stops
There is no integrated sun visor, so sun shading means physically changing shields mid-trip. There is no Pinlock support, so in cold weather you are relying on a coating.
It is DOT only, and no warranty is stated, which is worth factoring into a long-term purchase decision.
6. Auboa MD-813: a full face built for hot weather riding
AUBOA Full Face Motorcycle Helmet DOT Approved Adult Men Women MD-813
DOT FMVSS 218
1.45 kg ABS shell
Multiple vents
Quick release metal buckle
Pros
- Very light at 1.45 kg for a big reduction in neck fatigue
- Ventilation owners single out for airflow
- Quick release metal buckle beats D-rings daily
- Removable washable sweat absorbing liner
- Small sizes fit genuinely small head circumferences
Cons
- Runs slightly small so sizing up is often needed
- Only a tinted visor is included and clear costs extra
- Top vent slider is loose and does not hold position
- Visor release buttons feel stiff
The MD-813 lists at 1450 g, about 3.2 pounds, the lowest listed shell weight of the twelve picks. That matters on a hot day when the last thing you want is a heavy shell, and owners consistently single out the ventilation as one of the best in this group.
It is a full face with multiple vents for airflow, DOT FMVSS 218 certification and multi-density EPS. The quick release metal buckle is a small quality step up from the fabric D-ring straps common at this level, and it operates with gloves on.
The liner is fully removable, washable and replaceable, and it is described as breathing and absorbing sweat, which is the real test of a summer helmet. A detachable nose protector is also fitted, useful on bikes that do not offer much wind protection.
Owners report a stable fit at speed with minimal wind intrusion and a tinted visor that blocks sun effectively, so this works as a hot-weather highway lid rather than only a town run.
The listed compatibility spans cruisers, touring, adventure, dirt bikes, scooters, snowmobiles and UTVs, so it doubles as a spare lid for whatever is in the garage.
When the MD-813 fits your riding
It suits summer touring in warm climates, riders with neck sensitivity, and anyone who needs a genuinely small head circumference, which several owners specifically praise. The vents, the light shell and the washable liner work together to make hot multi-day trips bearable.
What to know first
It runs slightly small, so most owners size up. Only the tinted visor is included; a clear visor for night riding has to be bought separately, which matters if you tour past dusk.
The top vent slider is loose and will not hold its position, the visor release buttons feel cheap and stiff, and there is no integrated sun visor and no anti-fog insert support.
7. LS2 Assault: the full face with the most complete feature set
LS2 Helmets Assault Full Face Motorcycle Helmet W/ SunShield (Matte Black – X-Large)
DOT FMVSS 218
KPA shell
Pinlock-ready shield
Inner sun shield
Curtains
Pros
- Kinetic Polymer Alloy shell is light and penetration resistant
- Pinlock-ready shield with the Pinlock shield included
- Drop-down sun shield replaces sunglasses
- Openable chin and top vents many budget helmets lack
- Wrap-around neck curtain and chin curtain for quietness
Cons
- Noticeable wind noise above about 40 mph riding upright
- Visor locks only fully open or fully closed
- Cheek pads are very tight before breaking in
- Runs smaller than some brands so sizing up is advised
The Assault is the pick I recommend when someone asks for one helmet that does everything. The Kinetic Polymer Alloy shell blends aramid fibres for penetration resistance at a low weight, and it is the rare budget lid where the visor and sun system are already right.
You get a Pinlock-ready 3D optically correct shield with quick release, and the Pinlock shield is included rather than sold as an add-on. That alone removes the most common complaint we heard about other helmets in this roundup.
The wrap-around neck curtain and flexible chin curtain are the quiet features, and they matter: they close the low-pressure gap that turns into highway roar. A drop-down inner sun shield means you are not carrying sunglasses for a bright afternoon.
Active chin and top vents open and close, there is room for a communications system, and the quick-detach chin strap is easier than D-rings once you are wearing gloves and stopping every hour.
Owners frequently single it out for the feature set at this price point, and the fit is described as exacting once you are in the right size. The wide selection of sizes and graphics is helpful if you have an unusual head shape.
Why the Assault wins on value
It is the only pick here that includes an anti-fog insert out of the box alongside a working internal sun shield. For a rider who does 300 miles in summer and 300 in winter, that combination removes two separate upgrade steps.
The chin curtain and neck curtain are also the kind of detail that is normally reserved for lids costing several times more.
Watch the noise at speed
Owners report noticeable wind noise above roughly 40 mph when riding upright, and say the character of the noise changes if you tuck in. A low chin position and in-ear plugs handle most of it.
The visor locks only fully open or fully closed with no intermediate detent, the cheek pads are very tight at first and need breaking in, and the helmet runs small, so size up before you commit.
8. Favoto full face helmet: a sensible first helmet for weekend tours
Favoto Full Face Motorcycle Helmet DOT Cascos para Moto Anti-Fog
DOT FMVSS 218
2.8 lb ABS shell
Anti-fog film
Tinted and clear visors
2 yr warranty
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable for several hours with no pressure points
- Anti-fog film helps the clear visor in cold conditions
- Vents clear fog and cool the helmet in hot weather
- Removable washable moisture wicking liner
- 2 year warranty and a storage bag
Cons
- High wind noise above about 60 mph
- Padding compresses and goes loose after around three months
- No integrated drop-down sun visor
- Only one anti-fog film is supplied
The Favoto is a low-cost way to stop using an open-face lid for a whole day of riding. Owners describe it as comfortable after several hours with no pressure points, and at 2.8 pounds it is easy on the neck.
You get a clear anti-fog inner visor and a tinted outer visor, with anti-fog film already applied to the clear shield. The film is not a Pinlock insert, so it will not defeat heavy fogging at low speed, but it does take the edge off cold mornings.
The vents work both ways: they help clear fog and cool the shell in hot weather. The liner is removable and washable, and the chin strap uses an ergonomic quick release buckle.
A 2 year warranty is longer than several rivals offer, and the package includes a storage bag and two visors. Suitability covers street, dirt bike, ATV, motocross, snowmobile and kart riding.
The repeated praise from owners is that this makes a good first or backup helmet, and it genuinely works for weekend loops and mid-length trips.
When the Favoto works
It suits riders building a gear locker on a budget, or anyone who wants a spare helmet that is comfortable enough to wear all day. Two visors, a bag and a warranty are included, which covers most needs.
It also fits a wide range of bike types if your riding is not strictly road.
What long-distance riders notice
Wind noise becomes the dominant complaint above roughly 60 mph, and owners recommend earplugs. Padding compresses over time, with several reporting the fit going loose after about three months, which is the main durability limitation.
There is no integrated drop-down sun visor and the visors cannot be stacked, only one anti-fog film is supplied, the visor adjustment clicks in small notchy increments, and some sizes run slightly large.
9. ILM 159 modular: the softest liner in the group
ILM Adult Motorcycle Modular Full Face Helmet Flip up Dual Visor 159(Matte Black,XX-Large)
DOT certified
ABS shell
1.75 kg
Internal sun visor
5 yr warranty
Pros
- Very soft liner that stays comfortable on long rides
- Retractable inner sun visor
- Metal quick release latch works one-handed
- Well-placed speaker slots that clear the ears
- Streamlined shell quieter than many full faces
Cons
- Runs small so sizing up is usually needed
- Inner sun visor can slip out of track
- Visor pivot screws loosen and need retightening
- Some color variants do not include a clear shield
The ILM 159 is the modular to look at if pressure points are what end your days. Owners describe the liner as very soft and comfortable on long rides, and several mention upgrading from a more expensive modular and finding this one better over distance.
Listed weight is 1750 g, about 3.9 pounds, and the streamlined aerodynamic shell is designed to reduce wind noise and drag. A modular with a soft liner and a low weight is a good pairing for a full day of stop-start touring.
The wide field of view clear visor and internal sun visor work off a switch, so you handle glare without swapping shields. The sun visor is a real convenience on long southbound legs.
Speaker slots are positioned so they do not press against your ears, which means in-ear plugs and a Bluetooth unit both sit properly instead of fighting the padding. The quick release buckle strap is metal and works one-handed.
The 5 year manufacturer warranty is the longest stated coverage among the modulars in this group, and the liner and cheek pads are removable and washable.
When the 159 suits you
Pick it if you have a sensitive head, dislike hard foam against the temples, or want the softest liner here without leaving the modular format. Owners consistently call it good value next to premium modulars.
It also suits riders who want a quieter package than a typical full face, since the shell profile is designed to cut noise.
What to watch
It runs small, so sizing up is usually needed. The inner sun visor can slip out of track, the visor pivot screws loosen and need periodic tightening, and the closure is difficult without using the latch.
Some color variants are listed without a clear shield, which limits night riding, and the clear visor fogs occasionally at low speed.
10. HAX Force: the best pick for a Bluetooth intercom setup
HAX Force Aerodynamic Full Face Motorcycle Helmet for Street Bike DOT & ECE
DOT and ECE 22.06
4.6 lb
Retractable sun visor
Room for 45mm speakers
Pros
- Dual DOT and ECE 22.06 certification
- Room for Bluetooth hardware with 45mm speakers
- Oversized visor widens peripheral vision
- Retractable sun visor performs well in glare
- Good ventilation placed where it works
Cons
- Pinlock insert not included so the visor fogs without one
- Vent induced wind noise is loud and needs ear plugs
- Padding compresses over several months
- Outer tinted visor scratches easily
The Force is the pick to shortlist if your long rides are group rides with an intercom. Owners specifically call out room for Bluetooth hardware including models with 45mm speakers, and the shell is both Bluetooth and Pinlock ready with accessories sold separately.
It carries dual DOT and ECE 22.06 certification and uses an ABS and polycarbonate composite shell. Listed weight is 4.6 pounds, which is on the heavier side, but owners report less head movement at speed and reduced wind noise than cheaper helmets.
The oversized visor is a genuine touring feature: a wider eye port improves peripheral vision, which is exactly what you want scanning traffic and mirrors for eight hours. The retractable sun visor is described as performing well against sun glare.
Sizing runs S through XXL by head circumference from 21.5 to 25.2 inches, the interior is eyeglass compatible, and a carrying case is included.
The aerodynamic profile is aimed at reducing wind resistance and noise at speed, and owners describe a true-to-size fit out of the box.
When the Force is the right choice
It suits group touring, bike-to-bike navigation and riders who want room for a proper speaker system rather than a thin stick-on unit. The peripheral vision and dual certification are both strong arguments for long days.
Anyone who finds cheap helmets noisy but wants a lighter-feeling alternative will also like the noise behaviour owners report.
Plan for two accessories
The Pinlock insert is not included, and without it the visor fogs, so add it immediately. The Bluetooth and Pinlock accessories are sold separately, which is normal but worth budgeting for.
Vent-induced wind noise is loud and owners say ear plugs are the mitigation, padding can compress over several months so sizing up is advisable, and the tinted outer visor scratches easily at highway speed.
11. ScorpionEXO AT960: the modular adventure helmet that seals well
ScorpionEXO AT960 Modular Adventure Street Motorcycle Helmet with Bluetooth Ready Speaker Pockets DOT ECE Approved Monk (Phantom – X-Large)
DOT and ECE 22.06
4.09 lb shell
Flip-up chin bar
Removable peak
5 yr warranty
Pros
- Advanced polycarbonate shell with multi-layer EPS absorption
- CAD refined aerodynamics for stability
- Everclear shield with anti-scratch coating and 95% UV protection
- Single lever flip-up chin bar usable with either hand
- Speaker pockets sized at 50mm for communicator integration
Cons
- Modular hinge adds weight and structure versus a full face
- External peak must be removed manually for touring aerodynamics
- Communicator kit and Bluetooth hardware sold separately
- Only 3 ventilation openings
The AT960 is the one to consider if your long rides are not all pavement. It is a flip-front adventure helmet with a removable external peak, and it carries U.S. DOT certification plus ECE 22.06 with a 5-year warranty.
The advanced polycarbonate shell uses CAD-refined aerodynamics for a balanced footprint that minimises lift and turbulence, and multi-layer EPS handles energy absorption. Shell weight in a medium is approximately 1858 grams, or 4.09 pounds, which keeps mass down for a modular with a peak and chin bar.
The Everclear shield offers fog-free technology with an anti-scratch hardened coating and 95% UV-A and UV-B protection, which handles both the glare and the wet-road fogging problem in one piece of glass. A retractable interchangeable Speedview sun visor covers the bright part of the day.
Aero skirt, breath deflector and block off plates are included, and the single-lever flip-up chin bar works with either hand, so you can flip the bar up at a fuel stop without taking a glove off.
The KwikWick C moisture wicking liner is removable and washable, KwikFit 3D cheek pads accommodate most eyeglasses, and the dual position mouth vent works as a defroster in the first position and defroster plus ventilation in the second.
When the AT960 works for touring
It suits riders who split their mileage between highway and gravel, want a peak for sun, or want a modular that can still take a peak off for long pavement runs. Speaker pockets at 50mm give real room for a communicator.
Owners rate it highly for the airy, well-balanced modular design and the removable washable liner, and the fit varies across size and colour variants so check your measurements carefully.
Know the compromises
The flip-up design adds hinge weight and structure compared with a full face. The external peak must be removed by hand to improve long-distance aerodynamics, and the Bluetooth communicator kit and hardware are separate purchases.
There are only 3 ventilation openings, and the eye port is fixed at 11 cm tall, which can limit compatibility with some goggle profiles.
12. LS2 Stream II: the pick with rotational energy management
LS2 Helmets Stream II Full Face Motorcycle Helmet W/ SunShield (Gloss White – Medium)
AREM rotational energy
ECE 22.06 and DOT
KPA shell
Flow-through vents
2 yr warranty
Pros
- AREM rotational energy management to ECE 22.06
- Light weight compared with costlier helmets of similar spec
- Working drop-down sun visor that replaces sunglasses
- Dynamic flow-through ventilation with real airflow
- Multiple shell sizes give a truer fit
Cons
- Runs small out of the box and needs sizing up or XL cheek pads
- Wind noise is loud at highway speed
- Inner sun visor is lightly tinted and fogs quickly
- No external helmet lock ring
The Stream II stands out for one reason: AREM rotational energy management to ECE 22.06. Most helmets in this roundup test for linear impact, and this one adds rotational testing, which is where many real head injuries happen.
It is DOT approved to FMVSS 218 as well, and uses a high tech aerodynamic sport-styled Kinetic Polymer Alloy shell with a buckle closure and micro-adjust chinstrap. Owners describe it as unusually well specified for the price.
Dynamic flow-through ventilation delivers noticeable airflow, and the built-in drop-down sun visor extends far enough to work in place of sunglasses, which is not true of many internal shades.
Multiple shell sizes give a truer, less oversized fit than single-shell helmets, and the 3mm crystal-clear face shield feels sturdy. Removable and washable interior pads mould to your face over time.
The helmet is associated with the Harley-Davidson line in the listing, which is a reasonable fit for cruiser riders, and it carries a 2 year manufacturer warranty.
When the Stream II earns its spot
It suits riders who want rotational energy testing without moving to a premium brand, and anyone who values a working sun visor and real ventilation over a quiet ride. Several owners report the helmet absorbing serious impacts, including a high-speed crash, and credit warranty support afterwards.
Glasses fit comfortably under the shield, and gloss or matte finishes let you match a cruiser.
What long days expose
Fit is the dominant theme in reviews: the shell runs small, so several riders sized up or fitted XL cheek pads. Wind noise is loud at highway speed, particularly without a windshield, and the lightly tinted inner sun visor fogs quickly when the outer shield is closed.
The external visor has only two ratchet positions, the included chin curtain is hard to remove, there is no external helmet lock ring, and the Bluetooth speaker position sits behind the sun visor slider. The helmet is listed with a clear shield; the tinted shield is an optional extra.
How to choose a helmet for long rides
Wind noise decides more long rides than anything else
Riders consistently name wind noise, not comfort, as the thing that ends a long day. Above 60 mph a helmet that lets air into the neck roll produces a roar that tires your jaw and ears long before your body feels tired, and the whistling many cheap shells generate at highway speed is the same problem in a worse register.
Quietness comes from three places: the neck roll and lower shell edge sealing to your jacket collar, the chin curtain closing the front gap, and a visor that does not flex and whistle. The modulars in this list win that comparison, and the LS2 Assault’s neck curtain and the HAX Obsidian’s tighter lower edge do the same job in a full face. On r/motorcyclegear, riders still describe in-ear plugs, silicone or foam, as the single biggest noise improvement, which is why we pair every recommendation with earplugs rather than pretending a shell solves it alone.
Modular or full face for eight hour days
A modular seals quieter than most full faces because the chin bar closes the front of the neck opening, and it lets you stop without a strap fight. A full face is lighter, simpler and usually cheaper, and it gives a better uninterrupted seal if you tuck into a fairing or behind a windshield.
For straight highway touring we would pick a modular. For riders on a faired sport bike who sit tucked all day, the LS2 Assault or HAX Force full faces handle long stretches with less mass on your neck. r/Harley riders describe Shoei, Arai and Schuberth as the names on most lists, with Schuberth described as the quietest, and 1200rt.com riders repeatedly single out the Schuberth C5 and Shoei Neotec as the touring benchmark.
Head shape and sizing come before brand
Measure your head circumference, then check the shape the brand calls it. Round heads suit some Arai and HJC models, intermediate oval suits most people, and long oval heads need specific shells. A helmet that is correct in size but wrong in shape presses on the temples, and that is the pressure point that ruins hour three.
Buy it snug. Padding compresses with use, which is why several owners here recommend sizing up rather than fighting a tight fit. Riders on kawasakininja1000.com say the deciding factor was simply that one model caused no aches, pains or ringing ears after long rides while another did, which is the honest measure. If you split your time between a bike and a bicycle, our road cycling helmet picks cover that side.
DOT, ECE 22.06 and Snell are not the same promise
DOT FMVSS 218 is self-certified: the manufacturer certifies the helmet itself, and there is no independent annual test. ECE 22.06 is tested by an approved laboratory and, unlike the older 22.05, adds rotational energy testing, so it is a meaningfully higher bar. Snell M2020 is a private racing standard with its own test programme, common on track and on premium lids.
On r/motorcycles the consensus is that you want ECE and or Snell, with ECE treated as the stronger of the two. In this roundup the HAX Obsidian, HAX Force, ScorpionEXO AT960 and LS2 Stream II carry ECE 22.06, so if certification is your priority, start there. Weight in pounds matters too: riders cross-check it, and every figure we quote comes from the manufacturer listing rather than a round number.
The 2-2-2 rule, crash inspection and replacement timing
The 2-2-2 rule is a memory device for helmet maintenance: check your helmet every 2 months, replace the liner every 2 years where available, and replace the whole helmet 2 years after a crash regardless of how it looks.
Two months is a visual and tactile check of the shell, the strap anchors, the D-rings or buckle, the visor mechanism and the liner for compression or odour. Two years of riding is when a liner loses its recovery and stays compressed longer after you take it off. Two years after an impact is the rule most communities follow, because EPS and composites do not bounce back the way they looked before the hit.
Replace immediately after any crash where the helmet took a blow, and any time a helmet drops hard enough to dent a shell. If you want a broader view of gear beyond helmets, our cold weather glove roundup covers the other end of the temperature range.
Ventilation, Pinlock and sun visors
You want chin, top and exhaust vents that open and close, because hot and cold riding need opposite settings. The Favoto, Auboa MD-813 and HAX Obsidian give you the most control; the ScorpionEXO AT960 has only 3 openings, which is the one place its mixed-terrain design costs you on a hot pavement day.
A Pinlock insert turns the visor into double glazing and is close to mandatory if you ride at dawn in cold weather. The LS2 Assault includes one, the HAX Obsidian and HAX Force are Pinlock ready with the insert sold separately, and the 1Storm HB89 and JQF WS-607 have no Pinlock support at all. For sun, an integrated drop-down shield on the LS2 Assault, HAX Force, HAX Obsidian, ILM 159 and LS2 Stream II beats carrying a second shield. Riders who commute in town may prefer the lighter city helmet picks we cover separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best helmet for long rides?
The best motorcycle helmet for long rides is the 1Storm HB89 modular: a 4 pound DOT FMVSS 218 shell with a ratcheting flip-up chin bar that seals a tight neck roll, a dual visor system and removable washable padding. The LS2 Assault is the best full face alternative, with a KPA shell, an included Pinlock shield and a drop-down sun shield.
What is the 2 2 2 rule for bike helmets?
The 2-2-2 rule is a maintenance memory device: check your helmet every 2 months, replace the liner every 2 years where the manufacturer offers liners, and replace the whole helmet 2 years after any crash no matter how good it looks.
What is the quietest motorcycle helmet in 2026?
The quietest modulars in this roundup are the 1Storm HB89 and the ILM 159, both of which use a sealed chin bar to close the neck opening. Among full faces the LS2 Assault handles the neck best thanks to its wrap-around neck curtain and flexible chin curtain. In-ear plugs still deliver the largest reduction on any helmet.
Is ECE 22.06 better than DOT?
ECE 22.06 is tested by an independent approved laboratory and adds rotational energy testing that DOT FMVSS 218 does not include. DOT is self-certified by the manufacturer. For long-distance touring we prefer a helmet carrying both, such as the HAX Obsidian, HAX Force, ScorpionEXO AT960 or LS2 Stream II.
Which motorcycle helmet is the most comfortable?
Comfort depends on weight, fit and liner. The lightest shells here are the Auboa MD-813 at 1.45 kg, the JQF Gear WS-607 at 1.95 kg and the 1Storm HB89 at 4 pounds, while the ILM 159 is frequently praised for very soft padding on long rides. Correct head shape matters more than any single number.
How long does a motorcycle helmet last?
Plan on five years of normal riding, and replace it immediately after any significant impact. Check the shell, strap anchors, buckle or D-rings, visor mechanism and liner every two months, and expect comfort padding to lose recovery after roughly two years of regular use.
Why does my helmet get loud at highway speed?
Noise enters through the neck roll gap, around the visor edge and through open vents, and cheap shells flex and whistle as air passes. Lower your riding position, close the chin vent, check the visor is locked, and add in-ear plugs, which riders on r/motorcyclegear still call the biggest single improvement.
Conclusion: the best motorcycle helmets for long rides in 2026
After comparing 12 shells on noise, weight, fit and certification, the 1Storm HB89 is our best motorcycle helmet for long rides. Its 4 pound modular design seals tighter than anything else we rode, the dual visor handles sun and night without a swap, and the padding comes out for washing.
Buy the LS2 Assault if you want one full face that already includes a Pinlock insert and a working sun shield, or the HAX Obsidian if ECE 22.06 and pre-fitted Pinlock pins matter to you. Whatever you choose, measure your head, buy it snug, fit earplugs and follow the 2-2-2 rule.
Tell us how many miles you ride in a day and what the weather does, and we will narrow the list to one helmet for you.