About Our Carbon Fiber Helmet Recommendations
Founded in 2000, our team at wBW has collectively tested more than 2,500 helmets, jackets, boots, gloves, accessories, and more. We do not fluff reviews. A riders safety is heavily dictated by how they ride and what they wear while doing so. Our goal is to help riders make informed decisions about the gear they invest in to protect themselves.
wBW is funded by our audience. Our recommendations and reviews may contain affiliate links that earn us a small comission if you make a purchase after clicking them. This is the primary way we fund our website and pay our review team (and comes at no additional cost to you). We disclose our relationship with brands or manufacturers for transparency. For more information about our extensive review process, see our review policies.
Best Entry-Level Carbon Fiber Motorcycle Helmets
Priced under $500.
Scorpion EXO-ST1400 Carbon
Price: $429
Where to Buy: RevZilla | J&P Cycles
Why?
The EXO-ST1400 Carbon is a top offering from Scorpion USA, absolutely packed with features.
The shell is constructed from a resin-infused TCT-U 3K composite weave for superior impact energy protection. The EPS liner is well channeled for airflow via the aero-tuned ram air vents. Scorpions Kwik-Wick liner material has a nice high-quality feel to it and is easy to remove for cleaning. Channels are provided for eyeglass wearers and the helmet is designed to accept the EXO-Comm system, or most other Bluetooth comm systems.
The drop-down sunvisor is simple to engage and has good quality optics. The eye-port is a good size and peripheral vision is quite good. Scorpion thankfully even provides the pinlock anti-fog inserts.
Key Specs & Head Shape
Head shape: Intermediate oval
Weight: 3.34 lbs
DOT or ECE? DOT & ECE certified
Our Review
Scorpion’s EXO-ST1400 Carbon might very well be the best value currently available in a full-on Carbon Fiber full face helmet. While there are some less expensive options, none seem to have the combination of features and build quality Scorpion has brought to the table. There’s only one small detail that really brings the rating on this helmet down from 5 to 4.5 and it’s possible that it could be remedied with some QC surrounding the internal visor.
Sedici Strada II Carbon
Price: Up to $369
Where to Buy: RevZilla | J&P Cycles
Why?
Sedici’s latest generation Strada helmet is made from a proprietary blend of 6k carbon fiber creating a strong lightweight shell. Three distinct shell sizes are an upgrade from the previous generation and make sure that the helmet you pick fits like a low profile lid.
The Strada II comes with the features you most want, like an internal sun-visor with a simple to use slide lever. Sedici provides removable padding at the temple area that can help with about 5mm of fitment adjustment. This is very effective at fine-tuning the fit for most riders. The styling is aggressive, and perfect for those with big skulls thanks to a sizing range that runs up to a 3XL.
On a side note, Sedici offers this helmet without the drop-down sun visor, it is called the Primo and carries a coveted Snell rating.
Key Specs & Head Shape
Head shape: Intermediate oval
Weight: 3.38 lbs
DOT or ECE? DOT & ECE
Our Review
This is a great fitting, comfortable, reasonably lightweight helmet with a dual DOT and ECE certification that is quieter than average. Add to that the great chinbar venting, a tendency not to fog up drastically or for very long (even sans Pinlock) and you’ve arguably got the best helmet for under $200 currently available. It’s really that good. I’m impressed and my scoring reflects that.
LS2 Challenger GT Carbon Flames
Price: $449
Where to Buy: RevZilla | J&P Cycles
Why?
The shell is made from a blend of carbon fiber, Kevlar, and fiberglass to provide more flexibility and offset kinetic energy. The 360-degree multi-density EPS safety liner has been carbon-infused for greater energy absorption and reduces the amount of moisture the liner will absorb for more consistent weight.
The visor system comes from LS2 quite well set up. The eyeport is on the larger size, the visor is pinlock ready and LS2 provides the inserts in the box. The drop-down sunvisor works well and slides down a bit lower than some other brands, which I prefer.
This helmet is listed as a long oval shape. For those who often feel pressure around the temple area, this may be a better fitting lid for you. Sizing runs up to a 3XL and compared to others in this grouping this is lighter than the average.
Key Specs & Head Shape
Head shape: Long oval
Weight: 3.32 lbs
DOT or ECE? DOT and ECE
Our Review
We have not yet tested the Challenger GT Carbon, but we do know that one will be coming our way relatively soon, so keep your eyes on webBikeWorld for that review! See all our LS2 coverage here.
Best Mid-Range Carbon Fiber Motorcycle Helmets
Priced $500 - $750.
Nexx X-Vilitur Carbon Zero
Price: $449
Where to Buy: RevZilla
Why?
This is where form and function meet to deliver an excellent touring-focused helmet.
This is the first modular Carbon helmet on the list, and Nexx delivers a superb helmet. Yes, it comes with many of the typical features we have come to expect at this price point and in a touring lid, internal sun-visor, optional comm system, good ventilation, and great optics, but the Carbon fiber construction adds strength while removing about 3 oz in weight.
Nexx has put a huge effort into making this helmet quiet. A one-piece neck roll, double rubber seals at the chin bar, and vortex generators located in the chin area work together to provide improved sound isolation for a quiet riding experience.
Key Specs & Head Shape
Head shape: intermediate oval
Weight: 3.65 lbs
DOT or ECE? DOT & ECE certified
Our Review
From the moment you hold the Nexx X.Vilitur in your hands, it is obvious this is a premium product. Nexx may not be as familiar to you as other premium brands but if you are seeking a high-end modular helmet, the X.Vilitur should be on your list. The X.Vilitur Carbon Zero Pro is lightweight, quieter than average, full of features, very well made, and only left me with very minor complaints.
Simpson Ghost Bandit Carbon
Price: $649
Where to Buy: RevZilla | J&P Cycles
Why?
Simpson has such a cool, badass look to the Bandit line of helmets, I love it.
Built with riders in mind, Simpson includes all the key features riders love honed through years of providing top-quality lids. The lightweight shell has been aerodynamically tuned for motorcycle riding and is fully ventilated for maximum airflow when you need it most. Integrated speaker and microphone pockets make it easy to install your favorite communication device and a drop-down sun visor makes riding through changing light conditions as easy as flipping a switch.
Simpson helmets tend to fit a bit small, keep that in mind when ordering. They are typically very comfortable, and this carbon version is on the lighter side of average.
Key Specs & Head Shape
Head shape: Intermediate oval
Weight: 3.31 lbs
DOT or ECE? DOT & ECE certified
Our Review
We have not yet tested the Ghost Bandit Carbon, but we do know that one will be coming our way relatively soon, so keep your eyes on webBikeWorld for that review! See all our Simpson coverage here.
LS2 Thunder Carbon Lightning
Why?
Designed by racers for racers, this helmet from LS2 is a top-spec offering.
Focused on being lightweight and stable in high-speed air, the shell is a 9K Carbon fiber, and the huge eye-port is race-ready with a 3mm face shield and comes with tear-off posts, and uses the Pinlock system.
Being a racer-designed product it makes sense that it carries the FIM certification. Getting this level of protection and certification at such a great price is very impressive.
Key Specs & Head Shape
Head shape: Intermediate oval
Weight: 3.25 lbs
DOT or ECE? DOT, ECE, and FIM certified
Our Review
We have not yet tested the Thunder Carbon Lightning, but we do know that one will be coming our way relatively soon, so keep your eyes on webBikeWorld for that review! See all our LS2 coverage here.
Scorpion EXO-R1 Air Carbon
Price: $549
Where to Buy: RevZilla | Amazon | J&P Cycles
Why?
In 2020, Scorpion USA released the EXO-R1 Air helmet as a street-going homologation version of their EXO-R1 GP MotoGP and WorldSBK competition helmets. These helmets received rave reviews and very little, if anything, was found to be wrong with them, unless you got extremely nitpick-y.
Released in Q2 2021, the EXO-R1 Air Carbon takes the same design of the EXO-R1, and replaces the fiberglass and aramid weave with full 3K carbon fiber weave construction. This is the same grade carbon fiber specification that is used in aircraft manufacturing, so it is extremely strong, yet flexible enough to dissipate some impact force all on its own.
The helmet combines that with a very quiet shell shape that literally cuts the air more than ramming into it, and one of the largest visors you can get on the market today. The ventilation system, while simple, is extremely effective, and the AirFit inflatable cheek pad system ensures you have a tight but comfortable fit, every ride.
The R1 Air Carbon carries DOT and ECE 22.05 certifications.
Key Specs & Head Shape
Head shape: Intermediate oval
Weight: 3.1lbs
DOT or ECE? DOT & ECE 22.05 certified
Our Review
We were able to spend some time with the EXO-R1 Air Carbon in the real world, riding in different weather conditions and at different times of day. Read our review here!
Best High-End Carbon Fiber Motorcycle Helmets
Priced over $750.
Bell Race Star Flex DLX
Price: $769
Where to Buy: RevZilla | J&P Cycles
Why?
Its lightweight 3K Carbon Shell uses an ultra-thin carbon fiber weave to create one of the strongest shells the industry has seen with that essential race look.
Bell tends to make great fitting helmets but takes things to another level with this lid. 5 EPS and 5 shell sizes allow a more proportional fit and improved performance, especially at high speeds. I have not had a chance yet to try it, but the Panovision ProTint Photochromatic face shield automatically adjusts to changing light conditions, this should be very useful.
Race Star helmets feature the Flex impact liner, using three different materials at three different densities. As the impact becomes greater, higher density layers are engaged to manage energy from three potential impact scenarios: low, mid, and high-speed.
Key Specs & Head Shape
Head shape: Intermediate oval
Weight: 3.57 lbs
DOT or ECE? DOT & ECE
Our Review
We have not yet tested the Bell Race Star Flex DLX, but we do know that one will be coming our way relatively soon, so keep your eyes on webBikeWorld for that review! See all our Bell coverage here.
6D ATS-1R
Price: $869
Where to Buy: RevZilla
Why?
I love the slogan at 6D, “Dedicated To The Relentless Pursuit Of Brain Protection.” I vibe strongly with companies that focus on safety above all else.
Starting from the outer shell made of carbon fiber, everything on the inside is unique to 6D. 6D’s Omni-Directional Suspension (ODS) starts working the instant any force is applied to the shell. Its suspended inner liner travels and shears under crash impact loading thereby reducing energy transfer to the brain. As a floating liner between the comfort and EPS liner, the ODS features an air-gap to allow for improved ventilation and nine total vents move air through the helmet.
Much more than just hype, this is a fresh approach to protecting the head during previously less studied low-speed impacts.
Key Specs & Head Shape
Head shape: Intermediate oval
Weight: 3.58 lbs
DOT or ECE? DOT & ECE
Our Review
We have not yet tested the 6D ATS-1R, but we do know that one will be coming our way relatively soon, so keep your eyes on webBikeWorld for that review!
AGV Pista GP RR Carbon Iridium
Price: $1,449
Where to Buy: RevZilla | J&P Cycles
Why?
This is the MotoGP lid that dreams are made of. An exact replica of helmets worn by world championship racers. It meets stringent FIM Racing Homologation standards and provides the highest level of protection, even against glancing impacts that can cause rotational motion.
Made from 100% Carbon fiber, and formed into 4 shell sizes, with a 5 density EPS liner, this helmet is as good as it gets for your track day glory. The helmet is at its best during a full tuck, where the well-designed ventilation works flawlessly, and the eye-port design totally makes sense.
It even has channels for your hydration pack tubing. To be honest, the list of features that make this helmet next level at the track is a mile long. Yes the price is significant, but certainly well worth it.
Key Specs & Head Shape
Head shape: Intermediate oval
Weight: 3.66 lbs
DOT or ECE? DOT, ECE, & FIM certified
Our Review
We have not yet reviewed the Pista GP RR carbon, but we have dozens of other AGV helmet reviews. See our AGV coverage here.
Other Best Helmet Lists
See all our recommended riding gear.
What To Look For In A Carbon Fiber Helmet
A full face helmet is by far the helmet type that is the most protective. Considering most helmet impacts are actually on the chinbar, a full face is the best equipped to keep you safe. When we visited the Snell Memorial Foundation, Ed Becker - the managing director at the time - advised us that the best helmet is the one that fits you comfortably and you'll actually wear. So, there's that.
Assuming you've already sorted yourself a lid that fits, you should also consider:
DOT/ECE certifications—Many inexpensive full face helmets showing up on Amazon and eBay are not DOT or ECE certified. This certification may save your life. Don’t cheap out—remember, you’re preparing for the slide, not the ride.
Comfort— Most of the helmets featured on this page use lightweight materials to minimize neck strain—useful, especially on long rides.
Head shape—While most people are an intermediate oval, not all are. Make sure you get a helmet designed for your head shape.
Shell material—Polycarbonate is okay, but you’d be better served with carbon fiber (expensive) or fiberglass. All the helmets called out here (save for one) are fiberglass.
Interior liner—All the helmets featured here offer removable liners that are anti-moisture and anti-bacterial. Avoid non-removable liners (found in cheap helmets)—it’ll be a stink factory before you know it.
Intercom compatibility— Riders that want to stream audio, get navigation prompts from their phone, or talk to their friends while on the road will want to make use of a bluetooth intercom (see also: our picks for the best motorcycle intercoms). Many helmets come with speaker pockets already formed inside the liner; they will be much more comfortable to wear with an intercom compared to a lid that does not have speaker pockets. Definitely factor this into your decision, as there's nothing more frustrating than your needs changing shortly after buying and being left with no option other than purchasing another lid.
Read the complete motorcycle helmet buyer's guide for more information.
At WBW, “Best” Actually Means Something
Remember when you could open up a review of something, and when the publication—magazine, car show, whatever—said “best” they stood behind it? Yea, we remember, and we’re bringing it back.
Here’s how we do things:
We disclose our affiliate relationships—We make money via advertising and affiliate relationships on our website. It’s how we pay our team and invest in things like sending Jim to Italy. And Japan. And France… wait… why do we always send Jim places?
We obsessively hands-on test—We wear and ride with gear before reviewing it, and we update reviews down the line if our opinions change. We look at real-world situations because that’s the world we live in.
We’re objective—Good gear is good gear, regardless of who made it.
We’re value-focused—Why pay $500 if something for $250 is just as good? Our review scores and recommendations reflect best value. Brand only goes so far—the gear has to stand on its own.
