Updated: October 2022
I don’t know about you, but I love the sound of my bike.
The deep burble of the v-twin. That slight air of malice upon idle. The sleek and slender face of a cheetah, combined with the roar and anger of a lion.
Consequently, it truly lives up to the ‘Africa’ in its name. But whilst I cherish the sound of my Africa Twin, I don’t want to be bombarded by it when I tour.
Because whilst it’s nice to bask in the note of your engine on a Sunday morning blast, it becomes a weapon on your hearing when you tour over long distances.
So in this post, we look at 10 of the quietest motorcycle helmets money can buy.
View more like this in our Helmets Category
Top Picks
Schuberth C5
We’re big fans of this latest offering from Schuberth. Not only does it look good, but you can feel the quality simply by putting it on. It has that luxury feel about it.
Its patented direct fibre (DFP) fibreglass shell keeps it light, with smaller sizes weighing in at 1,600g and larger ones at 1,800g.
As you might expect, the C5 was developed in the wind tunnel for optimum aerodynamics and aero-acoustics.
Unlike the C3/C3 Pro and the C4/C4 Pro, which were all built upon the improvement of existing models, the C5 is all-new. It shares none of the components of its predecessors – only the experience that has come from trial and error.
As a result, an immediate reduction in wind noise is noticeable – even in comparison to the highly coveted C3 and C4 Pro models. There’s also less buffeting in comparison to the C4 Pro, and the re-designed neck roll reduces ambient wind noise, too.
In previous years, the C3 Pro was a tough lid to beat if you were compiling a list of the quietest motorcycle helmets. But for comfortable, peaceful, all-day riding, the C5 is the new one to beat.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight
- Wind tunnel developed
- Anti-Roll-Off-System
- City Position visor
- Pre-installed speakers & intercom
- ECE 22.06 approved
- P/J dual Homologation
Cons
- Expensive
- Will likely be a C5 Pro in the coming months
Find the Schuberth C5 on:
Schuberth C3 Pro
Schuberth helmets are known for being among the quietest motorcycle helmets money can buy. And for many years now, the C3 has been the most popular helmet in Schuberth’s line-up. For good reason.
Developed as a flip-front (modular) helmet, the C3 Pro is functional, comfortable, and loaded with quality protection. Furthermore, it’s as happy on long tours as on weekend blasts.
As a result of being developed in wind tunnels, the C3 Pro provides exceptional comfort by minimising contact pressure, reducing lift, improving directional stability, and reducing wind buffeting.
If noise is a factor for you, it’s worth noting that the C3 is one of the quietest helmets in the world, producing around 82 decibels of noise at 100 kph (62 mph.)
Additionally, the neck cushion has been ergonomically designed and includes a precisely placed wind deflector to further reduce noise.
On the rear, the spoiler ensures greater comfort and aerodynamics thanks to progressive wind tunnel testing, and the overall shape of the helmet has been designed with aero-acoustics in mind.
If you’re lucky, you might be able to find one of these on the cheap, thanks to the C4 and C5 releases.
Pros
- Exceptionally quiet
- Built with noise reduction in mind
- Quality design
- Modular
- Lightweight
- Drop-down visor
- Great ventilation
- Stable in turbulent conditions
- Compatible with Schuberth’s SRC communications system
Cons
- Expensive
- Can seem tight around the cheeks
Schuberth C4 Pro Carbon
If you’ve got the extra cash, it might be worth looking at the more expensive C4 Pro Carbon.
With cutting-edge technology, high-end materials and build quality, it’s up there as a gold standard lid that is also one of the quietest motorcycle helmets on the market.
The C4 Pro Carbon is built with comfort and quietness in mind. And this is evident in the interior fittings and optimised acoustics.
Like the C3 and the C5, the C4 Pro Carbon has been optimised through extensive development in the wind tunnel. And the result is an incredibly stable helmet that rides quiet no matter what speed you seem to go.
With its optimised neck roll and noise reduction at the mechanical attachments, the C4 Pro Carbon rides at around 85 decibels at 100 kph on a non-faired bike.
Pros
- Excellent protection from wind noise
- Stable in high winds
- Wide field of view
- Includes Pinlock 120
- Pre-installed with comms
- Lightweight at 1,415g (medium)
- Great ventilation
Cons
- Expensive
- Some riders have reported whistling through the vents
Find the Schuberth C4 Pro Carbon on:
Shoei Neotec 2
One of the things we like about Shoei’s Neotec 2 is its no-nonsense approach. It’s a simple-looking helmet, built from quality materials, and is light and durable.
As well as this, it has a Sharp 4-star rating and is one of the quietest motorcycle helmets on the market.
The big button release on the front makes the flip front easy to use with bulky bike gloves. And the same can be said for the internal visor button on the side of the helmet.
It also comes with a washable inner and a Pinlock anti-fog system. And the Neotec includes an integrated communications system designed by Sena specifically for the Neotec 2.
The neck pad on the Shoei is thick and works as a seal between your face and the outside world.
And the design of the cheek pads enhances the dampening of environmental sounds.
Pros
- Glove-friendly
- Reasonably lightweight
- Very high quality
- Comms compatible
- Quiet
- Built on the success of the Neotec 1
Cons
- Expensive
- Doesn’t come with the Sena comms system made for the helmet
- Lighter helmets available
Shoei GT Air 2
As with all Shoei helmets, the GT Air 2 is extremely well-built. This results in better aerodynamics, enhanced noise reduction technology, and harmonious integration with the Sena SRL2 communications system.
In addition, the GT Air 2 is available in various shell sizes, which can be combined with 4 different inner pad sizes. This aids in better fit and comfort and also the improvement of noise reduction.
The removable inner offers a contoured fit, enhanced comfort, and noise control. Furthermore, an integrated spoiler in the chin bar helps provide a quieter ride whilst the chin curtain further reduces wind noise.
Finally, the integrated spoiler aids in aerodynamics and acoustics.
Pros
- Low noise levels
- Good ventilation
- Compatible with Senna comms system
- Pinlock included
- Very high quality
- Cheek pad variations
Cons
- Expensive
- Lighter helmets available
- No chin vents
- Doesn’t come with the Sena comms system
Find the Shoei GT Air 2 on:
Shoei NXR (RF-1200 Outside EU)
We’re big fans of this helmet because it’s the no-frills version of the more expensive helmets in Shoei’s range. But the cheaper price doesn’t take away from its quality, and it’s still one of our quietest motorcycle helmets around.
Its compact shell design and build mean the NXR is lightweight whilst maintaining structural strength. And its noise reduction technology is highly effective.
Unlike its bigger siblings, the NXR doesn’t come ready to install comms systems. But it does come with a great fit and a variety of cheek pad options to personalise comfort and reduce wind noise.
We also like the venting system, which has 4 inlets on the brow, and 6 outlets at the rear.
The integrated spoiler at the rear improves the dynamics of the helmet. And in turn, it helps with wind noise, buffeting, and acoustic control.
Pros
- Good price
- All-round helmet
- Excellent build
- Lightweight (1,350g)
- Very good ventilation
- Optional ear pads to reduce ambient noise
- Pinlock included
Cons
- Not comms ready
- Quiet, but better helmets available for noise reduction
- No drop-down visor
Find the Shoei NXR on:
HJC R-PHA 70
The R-PHA 70 is a mid-range, sports touring all-rounder. It’s slightly heavier than its Shoei rival (the NXR), coming in at 1,485g. But it’s still lighter than many others on the market at this price point, thanks to its carbon and carbon-glass hybrid fabric shell.
The main reason for its lightweight properties is that this HJC is based on previous racing helmets. Moreover, the racing properties carried over don’t just keep it light in weight. They also affect aerodynamics and noise-reducing features.
Is it the quietest helmet we’ve ever worn? No. But for a full-face helmet, it’s quieter than many of its similarly-priced competitors.
Despite not being up there with the Schuberth’s of the world, this lid is still pretty quiet on a range of bikes in various riding conditions.
The large cheek pads do an excellent job of preventing wind from ricocheting through the gaps. And on the whole, this is a mid-range helmet that is quiet, light, and well-ventilated.
Pros
- Decent noise protection
- Price
- Very lightweight
- Great all-rounder
- Comfortable
- Good ventilation
- Skipfrog anti-fog included
Cons
- Other helmets on this list have better noise protection
- Front vent slider is small and difficult to find with gloves
- No integrated comms
Find the HJC R-PHA 70 on:
Shark Evo ONE 2
We were fans of the original Shark Evo ONE, so it’s no surprise to see further improvements on the Evo ONE 2.
Noise-reducing designs are prevalent in the new design thanks to virtual simulations. As with the Schuberth’s above, the Evo ONE 2 has been designed with stability and noise reduction at its core.
Even the breath guard on this helmet is removable, retractable, noise-absorbant, and magnetised. As a result, it’s one of the quietest motorcycle helmets in its price bracket.
To improve noise isolation radiating from the rear vent, Shark incorporated a clever lower lip joint which increases airflow and quietens noise.
Furthermore, the chin guard locking system is optimised for improved ergonomics, flexibility, and prevention of wind whistling through the joint.
Pros
- Price
- Excellent noise isolation
- Unique modular design
- Auto-Up system
- Includes Pinlock
Cons
- Lighter helmets are available
- No integrated comms unit
- Visor removal is fiddly
- Some people struggle to close with one hand
Find the Shark Evo ONE 2 on:
Arai Tour X4
The first thing we noticed about the new Tour X4 is the improved wind flow and noise reduction. The neck roll, combined with the flattened bottom edge, does a great job of keeping out the wind.
Being an adventure-inspired lid, we loved all the strategically placed vents to keep you cool on the trails. But we feared this could lead to heightened wind noise.
We needn’t have worried as the helmet stayed quiet even with the vents open.
The removable visor is great for swapping out for goggles. But probably not great for keeping out the noise! If you want a quieter experience, keep the visor on.
That said, the peak is a great addition for blocking glare as the sun sets in mid-July.
On the whole, this helmet is strong, durable, well-made, and weighs in at 1,710g.
The peripheral vision is extensive, thanks to its wide field of view. And the removable cheek pads go a long way to personalising fit and reducing noise.
Pros
- Great design
- Low noise, considering the design
- Removable peak and visor
- Field of vision
- Good build quality
- Looks good
- Pinlock included
Cons
- Lighter helmets are available
- Quite expensive
- No dedicated area for comms
- Quieter helmets available
Find the Arai Tour X4 on:
Bell Qualifier DLX
The Bell Qualifier DLX is our favourite helmet on a budget. Overall, it’s lightweight, has a transitions adaptive visor as standard, and has good noise-protective features.
From the off, it was evident that the padded wind collar did a good job of reducing road and wind noise. And we felt the aerodynamic profile prevented wind buffeting and lift whilst riding.
The transitions adaptive visor on this helmet is not available on any of the other helmets on this list. And it also comes with integrated speaker pockets and accommodates the Bell Sena SMH10 comms unit.
As a package, this is an excellent budget helmet that provides good noise protection and a lot of features for the money.
Pros
- Price
- Great noise protection
- Transitions adaptive visor
- Speaker pockets
- Lightweight
- Accommodates comms
Cons
- Lighter helmets available
- Better noise protection is available
- Old technology
Find the Bell Qualifier DLX on:
Are Modular Helmets Noisy?
You’d think so, wouldn’t you? But modular helmets offer better noise protection than full-face lids. So they generally make for the quietest motorcycle helmets.
The head hole on a full-face helmet has to be large enough for you to fit your head through. And once it’s on, it leaves a large, gaping hole underneath your chin where wind and noise can make their way up.
With a modular helmet, the helmet has to be put on with the chin section in the upward position. Once closed, the chin section can wrap further under your chin to reduce wind noise and draft.
Quietest Motorcycle Helmet Under $200 (£145)
It’s all well and good to suggest helmets that cost £500 and above. You would expect them to provide everything you would ever need at that price.
But what about if you’re a new rider? Or what if you’re simply on a budget?
We figured that most people on a budget would consider somewhere around $200 a reasonable price for a do-it-all helmet.
And in this price range, the Bell Qualifier DLX offers some unique features whilst being lightweight and protecting you from unwanted noise.
Sure, the technology is a little old now. But the transitions adaptive visor has always been a crowd-pleaser. And for the price, we’re struggling to find a better one.
If you’re looking for the quietest motorcycle helmets on a budget, you can’t go far wrong with this one from Bell.
How To Make A Motorcycle Helmet Quieter
If you’re not in a position to spend a fortune on a super-duper helmet (or you already own one that you’re not ready to part with), there are plenty of things you can do to make your riding experience quieter.
Try some of these suggestions:
Good Screens Accompany The Quietest Motorcycle Helmets
People get themselves into all sorts of trouble when they start messing with screens! Yes, there are aftermarket screens for pretty much every bike known to humankind.
But hardly any of them have had the time, money, and resources thrown at them than the ones developed by manufacturers.
If your bike came with a screen from the manufacturer, then you’re usually best off sticking with it. Pair this with one of the quietest motorcycle helmets above for great results.
If you ride a naked bike, chances are you won’t be doing much touring on it anyway.
But if you do ride long distances on a naked (or any bike without a screen), a modular helmet in combination with a thick neck roll or windjammer will serve you well.
Related: Windshield vs No Windshield On A Motorcycle: Your Ultimate Guide
The Quietest Motorcycle Helmets Still Need Earplugs
Regardless of how quiet your helmet may be (including the ones above), it’s still highly recommended that you wear earplugs.
There are all sorts of plugs available these days, from disposable, filtered, and even custom-made options.
As technology moves on, we’ve also been testing noise-cancelling headphones, which are insanely good at reducing unwanted noise in your lid.
Related: Decibullz Custom Molded Motorcycle Earplugs: Review
The Quietest Motorcycle Helmets Fit Well
It doesn’t matter how quiet your helmet is if it’s too big. The smaller the gaps, the less chance you have of wind getting in them and rattling around inside.
Moreover, helmets that are too large won’t protect you in a crash, either. The quietest motorcycle helmets are the ones that fit well.
Get Yourself A Windjammer
We’re big fans of theProline Windjammer 2here at Motorcycle Tourer HQ.
If you’re unfamiliar with windjammers, they’re pieces of technical material that act as draught excluders for your helmet.
Once fitted, a windjammer stops wind (and noise) from entering your helmet and damaging your ears. It also prevents pulling on your neck.
After earplugs, we find a windjammer invaluable to reducing wind noise and riding-related fatigue.
Oh, and if you’re into making videos or vlogging, a windjammer helps a lot with your audio, too!
Quietest Motorcycle Helmets: Conclusion
Riding a motorcycle is loud. Even though you might not think it at the time. And even though you love the noise it makes.
But noise isn’t just coming from your bike. It’s coming from the wind and other environmental factors along the way.
Prolonged exposure to this noise damages your ears. And the worst bit? It’s irreversible.
As I said at the top of this post, I love the sound of my Africa Twin. But in a few years when the bike is long gone, I don’t want to be suffering from the damage it did to my ears.
And neither do you.
Get a noise-reducing helmet and some earplugs. That’s all you need.
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FAQs
Do full-face helmets reduce noise? ›
Of the many types of motorcycle helmets, full-face helmets offer the most wind and noise protection in addition to being the safest helmet type in general. If you have a helmet with a visor, such as a modular helmet, put your visor down as riding with the visor up will create a lot of wind noise.
How quiet should a motorcycle helmet be? ›There is no such thing as a quiet helmet, period. Noise levels over 85 dB or so can damage hearing, and a motorcycle idles around 80 dB. So once you're moving and the wind is adding to the sound volume, you're into dangerous noise levels which can permanently damage your hearing.
Are full-face helmets quieter than modular? ›Yes, full-face helmets are quieter than modular helmets. This is because they have a better aerodynamic design. The full-face model is one-piece construction. It lacks the flip-up components that cause increased wind resistance and turbulence.
What winds are annoying to ride in a motorcycle? ›Wind speeds exceeding 50 mph are considered too dangerous for motorcycles, even heavier models. Wind speeds between 20 and 30 mph will be too much for most lightweight motorcycles. Avoid taking your motorcycle out during high wind warnings, hurricane-force winds, tornados, or other severe weather conditions.
How do I stop my motorcycle helmet from making a wind noise? ›A scarf wrapped around your neck and tucked tightly up into your helmet will create a significant reduction in noise. Pair this with a balaclava and things will quieten down significantly.
Should your chin touch your helmet? ›The helmet or face shield should not touch your nose or chin when you do so. Move the helmet from side to side and up and down. Your skin should move with the helmet.
What is the quietest motorcycle crash helmet? ›Schuberth helmets are known for being among the quietest motorcycle helmets money can buy. And for many years now, the C3 has been the most popular helmet in Schuberth's line-up. For good reason. Developed as a flip-front (modular) helmet, the C3 Pro is functional, comfortable, and loaded with quality protection.
How many decibels is safe in motorcycle? ›- No motor vehicle, motorcycle, motorbike, scooter, tricycle whether for private or public use shall likewise use any modified muffler, sound booster or any device that will increase the noise of said vehicle or emit a sound of more than seventy (70) decibels.
Should my motorcycle helmet move when I shake my head? ›A helmet that is too loose will move around or will not sit down completely on your head. A correctly sized helmet will be a little tight, providing even pressure around your head without uncomfortable pressure points. It should not move when you shake your head.
What are the cons of modular helmets? ›Cons: – The chin bar of a modular helmet is not as well reinforced as that of a full face helmet. In a crash, you won't receive quite the same level of face protection from a modular helmet as you would from a full face.
What style of motorcycle helmet is best? ›
For maximum safety, full-face helmets are usually the best choice. Studies show that the most common area of impact (19.4%) in a motorcycle crash is the chin. Full face helmets provide greater chin protection than other styles of helmet, meaning they are usually the safest option for general use.
Which is better fiberglass or polycarbonate helmet? ›So, there is a real range of applications here. As far as the material itself goes, fiberglass will be lighter than a polycarbonate helmet. But, since it is harder, it will absorb less energy across the shell. Which means the helmet will need a bit more EPS to absorb this extra energy.
What is the safest type of motorcycle helmet? ›Full-face helmet offers the most coverage around your head and neck. As a result, it is considered the safest type of motorcycle helmet to protect you from potential impact. A full-face helmet is a versatile choice for all riders, regardless of the type of motorcycle you ride or where you ride it.
What weather should you not ride a motorcycle? ›Impacts on Riders' Health and Safety
In general, you probably should not ride a motorcycle when the temperature is below freezing (32 degrees Fahrenheit) outside. This is because ice can form on the road, increasing the risk of losing control of your bike, sliding, and getting into a motorcycle accident.
May 21, 2021. Experienced motorcycle riders will often refer to 'SIPDE' as a safety teaching mechanism that has gotten them through some difficult situations on the road.
Should you open or close helmet vents? ›“You need to close the vents in order to keep that heat in,” Silva said. “It's the same reason why people layer their clothing.” Team Wendy offers three versions of the M-216™ ski helmet.
Should a motorcycle helmet squeeze your cheeks? ›A full-face helmet should be snug enough that it squeezes your cheeks. It should not be painful or cause you to bite the side of your cheeks, but if it is not squeezing your cheeks firmly then it is for sure, too large too loose.
Should a motorcycle helmet squeeze your ears? ›So, when you try a new helmet on, it needs to be snug fitting. Not so tight that when you put it on it shoves your ears down towards your neck and squeezes the blood from your skull – but moderately tight. You should be able to feel the polystyrene (EPS) padding touching all of your head without and pressure points.
How do you handle motorcycle highway winds? ›It's best to ride low behind the windscreen and front fairing and tuck your arms and legs close to the motorcycle. Be as streamlined as possible and reduce the friction of the wind against your body. A headwind will slow you down, so be cautious that it doesn't compromise your safety.
What does it mean when a biker touches his helmet? ›High Beams On—When a rider taps their head, it is usually to indicate that high beams are on. In some groups, it can be used to mean that there are cops ahead. Debris on Road—If a rider shakes his leg, it is usually meant to tell the riders behind him that there is debris coming up ahead on that side of the road.
How long does it take to break in a new motorcycle helmet? ›
Breaking Your New Helmet In
The only way to break in a new helmet is to wear it. Consider wearing it around the house for about 30 minutes a day for several days. Wearing the helmet for a total of about 15 to 20 hours should be a sufficient amount of time for the lining to begin to conform to the shape of your face.
Noise Reduction Features
The first things to note are the low bottom edge and flat neck roll. Both drive airflow away from the bottom opening and reduce wind noise. This thing is a quiet full-face helmet; it also stays quiet with the vents open – and there are many of them.
The level varies depending on the type of helmet you wear. On average the noise level in a motorcycle helmet can be between 95dB and 105dB when travelling at 100 km per hour. That's some serious noise and it can get to you on a long trip. So, how big a deal is wind noise to motorcyclists.
How do you keep wind out of your eyes on a motorcycle? ›Motorcycle sunglasses with foam gaskets, or eyecups, are one of the number one ways of blocking wind, dust, and debris. They create a full seal between your eyewear and face, so your eyes remain untouched by nature's elements.
Are carbon fiber helmets louder? ›Ultimately, polycarbonate came out as the worse for both weight and noise, since it earned 3 and 2.5 stars respectively. The interesting thing is that fiberglass and carbon fiber helmets actually earned the same 3 stars for noise, and there was a half star difference for weight.
How long does it take to break in a new helmet? ›Breaking Your New Helmet In
The only way to break in a new helmet is to wear it. Consider wearing it around the house for about 30 minutes a day for several days. Wearing the helmet for a total of about 15 to 20 hours should be a sufficient amount of time for the lining to begin to conform to the shape of your face.
Looking over your windscreen or looking through it is ultimately a decision that comes down to personal preference. Both options offer a balance of safety and convenience, and choosing between them could be as simple as what look you prefer your motorcycle to have.
How do you corner a motorcycle without being afraid? ›Dip your inside shoulder into the corner and lean your upper body to that side, into the corner. Find a way to turn the bike that works best for you. It's not about trying to get big lean, just about being confident and happy with turning the bike.
Are heavier motorcycles better in the wind? ›A larger, heavy bike will be more resistant to the wind, but because it's larger, it has more surface area for the wind to push against. A small, sleek bike will catch less wind than a larger bike. Because it's lighter, though, the wind could still push a smaller bike.
Is it better to size up or down in helmets? ›Also, similar to shoes, brands use proprietary shapes for helmet molds, so it's a good idea to try helmets on at a store to see if one brand fits your head shape particularly well. If you're between sizes, go with the smaller size.