Wearing a helmet is essential for protecting your head from injury and even saving your life while riding a motorcycle. While helmets were not mandatory in racing until 1914, they are now required by law in many countries. The motorcycle helmet market has expanded significantly over the years, and riders now wear helmets not only for protection but also to express their personal style. For those who appreciate retro aesthetics, there is a wide range of retro motorcycle helmets available with different price points, styles, and safety features.
Update October 2023: This article will be updated periodically to keep our readers informed about the latest developments in the market.
10 Hedon Heroine Racer
Starting MSRP: $846
Hedon is known for producing luxury, retro helmets, and their Heroine Racer is the epitome of style. These helmets can be custom-built to your specifications, with options for base colors, graphic shapes and colors, finish, trim, liner and hardware color, and visor tint. Hedon even offers an insurance policy for an extra cost if you’re not satisfied with the fit. The helmet is lightweight and comfortable, with antibacterial fabric and natural calf-leather interior.
Pros
- Lightweight shell
- Comfortable interior
Cons
- Expensive
- Non-removable liner
9 Nexx X.G100R
Starting MSRP: $479.95
NEXX offers a variety of helmets, and the X.G100R is their retro offering. It features a lightweight shell made of fiberglass, organic fibers, and carbon. The scratch-resistant visor is fog-free, and the interior is designed for drying and cooling. The chin vent allows you to control the airflow, and the helmet comes with various accessories and colors to choose from.
Pros
- Distortion-free visor
- Lightweight
Cons
- Limited ventilation
- No provisions for speakers
8 Shoei Glamster
Starting MSRP: $450
Shoei is a well-known brand in the motorcycle helmet industry, and their Glamster helmet offers a blend of retro style and advanced features. The lock mechanism on the visor is designed to be easy to use, and the helmet includes a Pinlock option for the shield. It also features multiple air vents for improved airflow and an Emergency Quick Release System for quick access in case of an emergency.
Pros
- Removable and washable interior linings
- Lightweight
Cons
- Limited ventilation
- Difficult visor removal
7 Bell Bullitt
Starting MSRP: $440
The Bell Bullitt helmet offers a retro look inspired by fighter pilots. It features a facemask and goggles combination that adds to its unique style. The helmet has a lightweight shell and a comfortable interior. The Bell Bullitt also includes features like a removable and washable liner, easy-to-replace face shields, and a warranty for up to 5 years.
Pros
- Easy-to-replace face shields
- Double D-ring strap
- Long warranty
Cons
- Easily scratched
- Limited ventilation
- Excessive wind noise
6 AGV X3000
Starting MSRP: $439.95
AGV is known for its racing helmets, and the X3000 brings a touch of retro style to their lineup. The helmet features a lightweight shell made of advanced composite fiber, providing both protection and comfort. The visor is distortion-free and the helmet has sufficient ventilation. The AGV X3000 also offers a comfortable fit and a wide view port for better visibility.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Ventilation
- Ergonomic groove for eyeglasses
Cons
- Higher price
- Chin bar design allows wind to enter
- Allen wrench required for visor removal
5 HJC V90
Starting MSRP: $319
The HJC V90 is a versatile retro helmet designed for long-distance trips. It features a modular design and includes an interior sun shield, eliminating the need for sunglasses. The helmet also has a slot for HJC’s proprietary comm device and comes with chin, forehead, and exhaust vents for improved ventilation. The HJC V90 combines classic styling with modern functionalities and features.
Pros
- Versatile modular design
- Classic styling with modern features
Cons
- Limited ventilation
- Limited shell sizes
4 HJC V60
Starting MSRP: $299
The HJC V60 is a helmet designed for off-road riding. It features a simple and lightweight design inspired by the 1980s FG-01 helmet. The V60 has a fiberglass shell, static front vents, and an open visor area for goggles. It comes in various colors and patterns and includes an inner sun visor and built-in speaker pockets. The HJC V60 is a great choice for riders who prefer a minimalist and retro look on off-road adventures.
Pros
- Lightweight fiberglass shell
- Adjustable inner sun visor
- Ergonomic groove for eyeglasses
Cons
- No sound-proofing
- Removable peak may not provide sufficient sun protection
- Requires separate goggles for speeds over 40 mph
3 Shark Street Drak
Starting MSRP: $269
The Shark Street Drak stands out with its fighter pilot-inspired style. It features a three-quarter helmet design with a facemask and goggles combination. The Shark Street Drak is lightweight and offers a removable and washable interior. The helmet is available in various colors and finishes and provides reliable protection.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Removable and washable linings
Cons
- Limited ventilation
- No chin protection
2 Biltwell Gringo
Starting MSRP: $174.95
The Biltwell Gringo is a simple and affordable option for retro enthusiasts. It comes in a variety of colors and patterns and offers a great fit and finish. The helmet has three buttons on the top for attaching visor peaks or bubble screens. It has a removable and washable liner and a scratch-resistant coating on the shell.
Pros
- Classic retro styling
- Removable and washable interior
Cons
- Noisy at high speeds
- Limited ventilation
- Visors and essentials sold separately
1 SMK Retro
Starting MSRP: $149
The SMK Retro offers a clean and minimalist vintage design. It comes in multiple colors and styles with options for dark and tinted visors. The helmet has a comfortable and plush interior, and it is equipped with Pinlock 70 to prevent fogging. The SMK Retro provides a great combination of style, comfort, and safety at an affordable price.
Pros
- Ergonomic groove for eyeglasses
- Pinlock 70 included
Cons
- Relatively heavy
- Limited sizes
