What Is a Modular Helmet? Everyone Wants to Know!

As a motorcycle rider, you should know what is a modular helmet since it may just be what you need. Maybe you have been using other types of helmets without knowing the virtues of modular helmets. You will appreciate modular helmets even more after learning about other types.

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What is a Modular Helmet?

A modular helmet is a marriage between the open and full-face helmet. Modular motorcycle helmets include the desirable features of both helmet types; you can switch from one type to another. The modular helmet allows you to enjoy the openness of an open helmet and the protection of a full-face helmet.

The distinguishing feature of a modular helmet is the hinged chin bar and face shield. When you press the release button, the chin guard detaches from the shell and flips up to become an open-face helmet. When you push it down it locks back to become a full-face safety helmet.

Here are the pros and cons of this type of helmet.

Pros

Blends the breathability of an open face and protection of the full-face safety helmet
Practical for everyday use; you can open the shield to grab the energy bar or release built-in hot air. When wind or rain threatens you close the shield
Advantageous for face-to-face communication such as for couriers and bike instructors
Highly compatible with eyeglasses
Often include built-in sun visors that are lacking in some open-face helmets

Cons

The hinge mechanism and dual shield make it heavier and bigger than the full-face type
The chin bar of a full face provides superior protection from impact than that of a flip-up helmet
The hinge bar and lock are likely to disengage in case of a high-impact force
Some riders suggest modular motorcycle helmets are noisier.
Riding with the chin bar in an open position is dangerous and prohibited.

Main Features and Design of Modular Helmet

Knowing the main features of a modular helmet is critical. It will help you decide how well the helmet can fit in your riding style. For example, if you often make stopovers to make deliveries or always take your helmet off to reveal your face for security reasons, consider investing in a modular helmet.

Hinged Design

A modular helmet has a hinge that allows you to lift its front section or bring it down. The helmet’s front section primarily consists of the visor and chin bar. This hinge is central to the modular helmet’s operation – it gives it its modularity.

Lifting the helmet’s front section allows you to use it as an open-face helmet. Bringing the front section down allows you to use the helmet as a full-face type.

Quick Release Mechanism

Some modular helmets feature a quick-release design that allows you to flip up its chin bar with one hand. The quick-release feature means you can easily transform the modular helmet from a full-face to an open-face use. This feature is convenient for brief stops, for example, when refueling.

Visor or Face Shield

A modular helmet comes with a full-face visor or face shield. The visor blocks air and objects in the air, like insects and dirt, from hitting your face. You lower the helmet’s front section to enjoy these benefits.

Chin Bar Lock

You lower the helmet’s front section whenever you want to use it in its full-face configuration. The best modular helmet has a chin bar locking mechanism to keep its front section locked down until you raise it. The chin bar lock prevents the accidental lift of the helmet’s front section.

Ventilation System

A full-face helmet can get hot, especially on long drives or during hot days. Some helmet manufacturers equip modular designs with ventilation systems to combat this problem. The ventilation system regulates airflow and keeps you warm even with the helmet’s visor down.

Consider These Factors When Buying a Modular Helmet

Once you know what is a modular helmet, the next step is to choose the right one. Consider the following points when shopping for a modular helmet.

Safety Certification

Whichever helmet design you choose, it should do its core mandate – protection. The modular helmet is no exception; you should choose one with a recognized safety certification. Bodies that offer recognized safety certifications include the following:

The Department of Transportation (DOT)
Economic Commission for Europe (ECE)
The SNELL Memorial Foundation
Safety Helmet Assessment and Rating Program (SHARP)

These organizations regularly test helmets and certify the safe ones as such.

Manufacturer Warranty

Modular helmets require significant investment. Therefore, you shouldn’t buy one only to have it malfunction the next day. Consider a helmet with a lengthy manufacturer warranty to safeguard against such mishaps. The manufacturer will fix or replace your helmet if you detect a manufacturing or design defect.

Helmet Fit and Sizing

Your helmet will protect you best if it fits you properly. Measure your head, check helmet sizes, try different helmets, and choose one that fits you best. Remember, you also want the helmet to fit you properly so it stays in place whatever the maneuvers you make with the bike.

Helmet Weight

Lastly, don’t forget to consider the helmet’s weight since it determines your comfort, especially on long rides. Modular helmets tend to be heavier than other helmets. However, some models are lighter than others. Choose the best modular helmet that’s light and won’t strain your neck or increase your fatigue rate.

Conclusion

As you can see, there is much to know about the modular and various motorcycle helmet styles. However, you do not have to be a helmet expert to buy one. Consult a motorcycle professional to help you choose the appropriate motorcycle type for you.

Don’t forget to inform the professional about your taste and riding style while choosing a modular helmet. The professional can help you with the technical details, but the aesthetics depend on your preference. Hopefully, you now know what is a modular helmet and will be using one soon.