Motorcycle Helmets

Buy motorcycle helmets for road riding

A motorcycle helmet is the rider’s primary item of protective equipment. To be used on the road, it must have valid approval, match the size and shape of the rider’s head and remain correctly fastened throughout the journey.

At Non Stop Bikes, you will find a selection of helmets for road riding, urban use, scooters, touring, sports bikes, naked bikes and Trail motorcycles. We select models from specialist brands based on their approval, fit, comfort, ventilation, weight, field of vision, manufacturing quality and ease of maintenance.

The best helmet is not necessarily the most expensive, lightest or sportiest, but the one that provides suitable protection, fits the rider’s head correctly and meets their actual needs.

Types of motorcycle helmets for road riding

Full-face helmets

Full-face helmets have an enclosed structure and a fixed chin bar covering the chin. Their level of coverage makes them a popular choice for road and motorway use, touring, daily riding and sports riding.

Depending on the model, they may prioritise aerodynamics, ventilation, noise insulation, low weight or stability at high speeds. They may also feature an internal sun visor, preparation for an anti-fog insert and space for installing an intercom.

Sports and Racing helmets

Sports helmets are full-face helmets developed for a more forward-leaning riding position. They generally provide high levels of ventilation, good aerodynamic stability and a field of vision adapted to sports motorcycles.

Some models are specifically intended for track use and feature double-D fasteners, visors prepared for quick-release systems, aerodynamic spoilers or interiors designed to provide an especially secure fit. Before riding on a circuit, check the requirements established by the organiser.

Modular or flip-up helmets

Modular helmets allow the chin bar to be raised to make certain tasks easier while the motorcycle is stationary. They are particularly practical for touring, travelling, frequent journeys and riders looking for greater convenience.

To ride with the chin bar open, check that the helmet has dual P/J approval and that the manufacturer expressly permits this configuration. If it is only approved as a full-face helmet, it must be used with the chin bar closed.

Open-face helmets

Open-face helmets are lightweight, well ventilated and provide a wide field of vision. They are mainly used for city riding, scooters and journeys at moderate speeds.

Depending on the model, they may feature a long visor, short visor or internal sun visor. Their main difference compared with a full-face helmet is that they leave the chin and a larger part of the face exposed, providing less coverage in these areas.

Trail and Adventure helmets

Trail and Adventure helmets combine features from full-face road helmets and off-road helmets. They generally include an upper peak, front visor, prominent chin bar and a wide field of vision.

They are intended for Trail motorcycles, touring and mixed riding on roads and authorised tracks. Some models allow the peak or visor to be removed and off-road goggles to be worn, although these options must be checked for each product.

Motorcycle helmet approval

Before buying a helmet, it is essential to check its approval label. In Europe, the standard used for motorcycle helmets is UNECE Regulation R22, whose most recent generation is ECE 22.06 approval.

Approval assesses different aspects of the helmet through tests defined by the regulation. However, approval does not mean that all models are identical. Fit, coverage, material quality, weight and comfort remain important factors when making the right choice.

What does P/J approval mean?

The P/J designation appears on certain modular helmets. The letter P corresponds to the configuration with a protective chin bar, while J corresponds to the open configuration. Dual approval indicates that the model has been approved for use in both positions, provided the manufacturer’s instructions are followed.

Road approval and FIM homologation

FIM homologation is intended for certain types of competition use. By itself, it does not replace the approval required for riding on public roads. If a helmet will be used both on the road and on a track, the applicable legal and sporting requirements must be checked separately.

Motorcycle helmet materials

Thermoplastic or polycarbonate helmets

Thermoplastic helmets generally provide a good balance between protection, durability and price. The shell is manufactured from high-strength plastic materials and may be slightly heavier than some composite-fibre models.

Fibreglass or composite-fibre helmets

Composite-fibre helmets combine different materials to achieve a balance between strength, energy absorption, controlled flexibility and weight. Their construction is generally more complex, which can affect the final price.

Carbon-fibre helmets

Carbon fibre enables strong, lightweight shells to be produced and is therefore frequently used in sports and premium helmets. However, the shell material alone does not determine the protection provided by a helmet.

A fibre helmet is not automatically safer than a thermoplastic model. Complete approval, structural design, the inner EPS liner, correct size and fit are all essential to the performance of the complete helmet.

How to choose a motorcycle helmet

Choose the helmet type according to its intended use

For roads, motorways and sports riding, the coverage of a full-face helmet is generally prioritised. A modular helmet may be practical for touring, while some riders prefer the lightness of an open-face helmet for urban and scooter use. Trail motorcycles may require an Adventure model designed for more versatile use.

Check the size and internal shape

Size is one of the most important factors when choosing a helmet. Measure the circumference of your head with a flexible tape measure, approximately above the eyebrows and ears, and compare the result with the manufacturer’s size chart.

The helmet should fit securely and apply even pressure without causing pain or severe pressure points. It should not rotate or move independently when you move your head. Internal shapes and sizing can vary between brands and even between models from the same manufacturer.

If your measurement falls between two sizes, do not automatically choose the smaller one. Try both options and assess the actual fit, your head shape and the brand’s instructions.

Consider weight and balance

A low weight can reduce fatigue on long journeys, but the distribution of that weight is also important. A well-balanced helmet may be more comfortable than a lighter model that places excessive load on the front or rear of the head.

Ventilation and insulation

Air inlets and outlets help reduce the build-up of heat and moisture. High airflow may be prioritised for summer or sports riding, while wind and noise insulation should also be considered for touring.

No helmet completely eliminates aerodynamic noise. This can vary depending on the motorcycle, windscreen, riding position, speed and the shape of the rider’s head.

Visor and anti-fog system

The visor must provide clear vision, close correctly and offer a suitable field of view. Some models are prepared for an anti-fog insert, feature an internal sun visor or allow the main visor to be replaced without tools.

You should also check the availability of compatible visors and spare parts before choosing a helmet.

Fastening type

The most common systems are micrometric and double-D fasteners. The micrometric fastener stands out for its ease of use, while the double-D system is common on sports and competition helmets.

Regardless of the system, the fastener must remain correctly adjusted and secured throughout the ride.

Compatibility with intercoms

If you intend to install an intercom, check that the helmet has space for the speakers, a suitable position for the microphone and a compatible mounting system. Do not drill holes or make modifications that could affect the helmet’s structure.

How to tell whether a helmet fits correctly

• It should apply even pressure around the head.
• It should not cause pain or severe pressure points.
• The cheek pads should hold the cheeks securely.
• It should not rotate freely when moved with the hands.
• It should not come off the head when pulled from the rear with the fastener secured.
• The chin strap should be secure without restricting breathing.
• The field of vision should remain clear and centred.

The interior padding may adapt slightly with use, but a new helmet should not be bought excessively loose in the hope that its fit will improve.

How long does a motorcycle helmet last?

Motorcycle helmets do not have a universal service life that can be determined solely by the shell material. Their lifespan depends on the manufacturer, construction, frequency of use, exposure to heat or moisture, maintenance and the condition of their components.

Consult the brand’s specific recommendations and regularly inspect the shell, EPS liner, fastener, visor and interior padding. The helmet must be replaced if it has sustained a significant impact, shows structural damage, has deteriorated components or can no longer be kept correctly fitted.

Buying a used helmet with an unknown history is not recommended, as it may have sustained impacts or been stored incorrectly without showing visible damage.

Motorcycle helmet maintenance

• Clean the shell and visor with products compatible with their materials.
• Avoid solvents, fuels and aggressive chemicals.
• Wash removable interior components according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Allow the helmet to dry at room temperature and away from direct heat sources.
• Do not drill, cut or modify the shell or EPS liner.
• Store it in a dry place protected from sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Regularly check the operation of the fastener and visor.

Frequently asked questions about motorcycle helmets

Is wearing a motorcycle helmet compulsory?

Yes. In Spain, both the rider and passenger must wear an approved and correctly fastened protective helmet when travelling by motorcycle or moped. It must also be worn for short journeys and on urban roads.

Which motorcycle helmet is the safest?

This cannot be determined solely by price, brand or material. Full-face helmets provide greater facial coverage and a fixed chin bar, but approval, size, internal shape, fit and condition are also determining factors.

What is ECE 22.06 approval?

ECE 22.06 is the latest generation of UNECE Regulation R22 for motorcycle helmet approval. It introduces updated tests and criteria for assessing helmet performance. Approval can be checked on the helmet label and in the product documentation.

Can I ride with a modular helmet open?

Only when the model has dual P/J approval and the manufacturer permits it to be used in that configuration. If the helmet is not approved as an open-face helmet, the chin bar must remain closed and locked while riding.

Does a carbon helmet provide more protection?

Not necessarily. Carbon fibre can reduce weight and enable technical constructions, but protection depends on the helmet’s complete design. Approval, correct sizing and fit are more important than choosing a helmet solely because of its material.

Are there specific helmets for women?

Protective performance does not depend on the rider’s sex. Some manufacturers offer specific designs or sizing, but the essential factor is choosing a helmet whose internal shape and size fit the rider’s head correctly.

Should a helmet be replaced after a fall?

If the helmet has sustained a significant impact, it must no longer be used and the manufacturer’s specified procedure should be followed. The inner material may have absorbed energy even if the outer shell shows no visible damage.

Why buy a motorcycle helmet from Non Stop Bikes?

At Non Stop Bikes, we select helmets for different motorcycles and riding styles. We help you compare helmet types, sizes, materials, fastening systems and features to find the most suitable model.

• Full-face, modular, open-face and Adventure helmets.
• Models for city, road, touring and sports riding.
• Advice on choosing the correct type, size and fit.
• Approved helmets from specialist brands.
• Help checking compatible accessories and spare parts.
• Delivery to Spain and other European countries.
• Support from our motorcycle shop and workshop in Tona, Barcelona.

Find your road motorcycle helmet

Browse our range of road motorcycle helmets and find a model suited to your daily journeys, road rides, tours or sports riding. If you have questions about the size, approval or features of a helmet, contact Non Stop Bikes before placing your order.

Available brands, models, sizes, colours and graphics may vary depending on stock and season.