Tested: The Best Bluetooth Motorcycle Helmets For Connected Riding

Hugely benefitting from a number of major advancements over the last few years alone, motorcycle communication systems — or “comms” — have become an increasingly essential piece of riding kit, especially as smartphone connectivity becomes an ever-more integral part of our daily lives. And while riders always have the option of strapping an aftermarket comm system onto their helmet’s chin-bar, these devices lack the clean aesthetic, neat integration, and convenience of helmets with preinstalled comms, or brain buckets that can be fitted with comms that were custom-designed specifically to integrate into a particular helmet model. And it’s this list of lids that we’ll be exploring today in this guide to and hands-on review of the best Bluetooth-ready motorcycle helmets. 

Selection & Testing

Over the last few years alone, we’ve seen an unprecedented number of motorcycle helmets that can be optioned with their own dedicated, purpose-built comm systems. In a bid to uncover the best the market has to offer in this space, we kicked off our search by first making a list of every single available model (and accompanying comm). From there, we evaluated key properties and characteristics from each available helmet, scrutinizing areas such as shell construction, number of available shell sizes, number of intake and exhaust ports, available comm type, and comm mounting location. With these areas guiding our search, we then generated a shortlist of Bluetooth-ready lids that we suspected may represent some of the best that money can buy. 

In order to get a more comprehensive sense of each Bluetooth-ready motorcycle helmet’s overall performance and user experience, we then managed to track down examples of each brain bucket on our shortlist, and their accompanying dedicated comms. This allowed us to spend a week wearing, testing, and using each helmet on our list — providing firsthand insight into areas such as sound quality, call quality, battery life, and how easy or difficult it was to use the exterior control buttons on each comm. Additionally, our hands-on testing would also enable us to glean information on other crucial aspects such as comfort, wind noise, build quality and craftsmanship, weight, and aerodynamics.  

During our hands-on testing phase, we also performed a freeway call test to judge audio quality from both ends of the call. Additionally, the same album was listened to (sometimes several times over) on each helmet’s comm system, providing a more objective sense of the overall clarity and audio quality afforded by each unit. A real-world battery life test was also conducted, allowing us to compare manufacturer’s advertised battery life to how each actually performed in practice. Once armed with the information from our firsthand findings, we were then able to whittle down our original shortlist of candidates down to a final selection of what we found to be the very best Bluetooth-ready motorcycle helmets that money can buy. 

ICON Domain Cornelius

Best Retro-Inspired Pick: Reintroduced to the Portland brand’s lineup after a decade-long hiatus, the ICON Domain Cornelius is a modern full-face motorcycle helmet that offers a unique combination of idiosyncratic retro-inspired looks and ample bang-for-your-buck. Sitting in the middle of the company’s lineup — above the cheaper models like the Airform and Airflite and below the Airframe Pro — the Domain Cornelius is also the lightest helmet currently made by ICON. In addition to the helmet itself, ICON has also delivered a custom-developed comm that offers both Bluetooth and Mesh connectivity, while also hiding a few other noteworthy features and tricks up its sleeve. 

The Good

Hand-crafted from composite fibre-reinforced plastic, the Domain Cornelius is constructed around a shell that sports a unique shape and profile that combines modern and retro design traits. Set over an EPS foam liner, the shell also features a quad intake setup culminating in a dorsal exhaust that draws hot air out of the helmet. In addition to boasting a small cover that can be removed to allow for the integrated installation of a dedicated comm, the neckline of the helmet also makes it particularly easy to slide on and off. Alongside a dorsal ridge that feeds into a pronounced spoiler, this idiosyncratic design also features vintage-inspired grommet holes adorning its chin bar. Like the spoiler on AGV’s Corsa and Pista GP RR race helmets, this spoiler appears to be designed to brake-off in the event of a crash. 

Despite being a good deal cheaper than its more top-shelf counterparts, the Domain Cornelius doesn’t skimp on protection — far from it in fact, as this ICON lid manages to achieve DOT FMVSS 218, ECE 22-06, and PSC safety certifications. ICON also offers no less than half-a-dozen different face shield color options, plus four short visor-equipped face shields and a trio of spoiler color options. Other features include a removable breath deflector, an anti-fog-coated, 3D-molded face shield, and a removable moisture-wicking Hydradry Red comfort liner. Though it’s admittedly a small detail — and a purely subjective one — I nonetheless really like how this helmet’s shell is contrasted by the red liner on its interior.

Even compared to top-shelf lids like the AGV Sportmodular and Schuberth S3, ICON’s Domain Cornelius still offered surprisingly great ventilation. It wasn’t until using this helmet on a particularly hot day that I realized just how calculated its cooling system is. Not only does it feature a robust ventilation setup, but that setup was also designed to work in conjunction with the interior’s Hydradry Red comfort liner, which is both cooling and moisture-wicking — and is quite effective in both areas. In total, the helmet is produced in seven different sizes, too. 

Supplementary Strengths

The helmet itself offers pretty great value at just $350 — though the optional comm shares the lid’s $350 MSRP, bringing its total cost to $700 for both the ICON Domain Cornelius helmet and the HelmLink Communications System. Though the helmet itself is a bit cheaper and lower-quality compared to some of its pricier counterparts that I tested, the HelmLink comm was legitimately able to go toe-to-toe in most areas with most of the other headsets I tested. It surprised me by how well it performed on my call tests. Overall sound quality wasn’t quite on the same level as every other comm system I tested, but not by all that much. 

The HelmLink boasts the ability to connect with up to 20 other riders, plus features voice-activated digital assistant access, a pair of built-in antennas, and single-click-to-connect intercom capabilities. More importantly, ICON’s dedicated comm also benefits from the use of both Mesh and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, allowing for the best of both worlds. Thanks to a USB-C port, the HelmLink can receive a full charge in 2.5 hours — which provided me with between 8 and 10 hours of use per charge. 

One of the coolest and most unique aspects of the Domain Cornelius and its accompanying HelmLink comm is the integrated, adaptive-flash-equipped red LED light strip. Using an onboard accelerometer, this adaptive LED light can automatically sense when the bike is decelerating, at which time it activates the red LED light, allowing it to serve as a taillight — without requiring the lid to be linked with or wired to the motorcycle in any way. I also found the comm’s control buttons to be located in a convenient spot that’s easy to access, plus with the physical control panel consisting of just three buttons, it’s super easy to use — whether or not you’re wearing gloves — and just as easy to memorize the layout of. 

The Not So Good

Being around half-the-price of the second-most-affordable helmet on this list, I expected the ICON Domain Cornelius to have a few downsides, and my testing proved this to be the case. First off, though it’s undeniably a well-made helmet, there’s no question that ICON’s Domain Cornelius is a bit lacking in the materials and build quality departments — at least compared to the more expensive Bluetooth-ready lids that I tested. And, while the comm’s sound quality is admittedly solid, I do wish the HelmLink used Sena’s more premium Harmon Kardon speakers rather than the HD units that it ships with. Additionally, for a company that offers such a wide range of swappable options for its face shields and spoilers, I was a little surprised to see that ICON only produces the Domain Cornelius in just three color options; dark gray; gold; or silver (the latter of which I tested). 

Verdict: For those on a budget that still want a cutting-edge comm, ICON”s Domain Cornelius and its accompanying HelmLink system is unquestionably your best bet, as this lid boasts Bluetooth and Mesh connectivity in a unique-looking, retro-inspired package. 

Ruroc Atlas 4.0 Carbon

Best Overall Pick: Most helmets are the result of traditional lids that have slowly evolved and progressed over time. The Ruroc Atlas 4.0, however, jettisons the usual evolutionary approach in favor of a revolutionary one which sees the modern-day motorcycle helmet completely reimagined and reengineered from the ground up. Ruroc’s fourth and latest generation flagship moto lid is an ultra-advanced design that benefits from a carbon fiber shell, NASA-developed RHEON reactive polymer, a self-guiding magnetic FIDLOCK buckle, custom zippered cheek pads, an emergency quick release system, a pin-lock-compatible visor, a 215º horizontal field of view, and open-and-closeable ventilation ports. The Atlas 4.0 can also be optioned with a world-class Bluetooth comm system that was co-developed by Cardo and Harmon Kardon specifically for Ruroc’s gen-four moto lid — a unit known as the Shockwave. 

The Good

Borrowing design traits from knight’s helmets, fighter pilot helmets, and the shape of the human skull, Ruroc’s Atlas 4.0 Carbon is constructed around a carbon fiber shell that’s left on full display under a gloss or matte clear-coat. Designed in the UK — though manufactured in China — the shell features open and closable ventilation ports at the chin and crown, plus sports a massive field of vision with 215° horizontal and 100° vertical viewport. The shell also comes paired with an anti-scratch-dipped optical-grade ballistic polycarbonate face shield that’s PINLOCK-ready and set on a sturdy yet easy-to-use quick-change mounting system. 

As of the time of writing, Ruroc offers its fourth-generation Atlas motorcycle helmet across a trio of different models/trim levels; the $350 fiberglass-shelled Atlas 4.0 Street; the $475 carbon-shelled RHEON-equipped Atlas 4.0 Carbon; the and $650 carbon-shelled, aero-upgraded Atlas 4.0 Track — I tested the middle-of-the-road Atlas 4.0 Carbon model. And, while I personally tend to gravitate towards lids with bare carbon finishes, I nonetheless hugely appreciate the fact that Ruroc produces the Atlas 4.0 in an unparalleled number of different versions, from a plethora of different colored matte or gloss carbon fiber models to a huge slew of solid colors to a wide array of patterns and designs inspired by everything from skulls to samurai masks. The thing is even offered in a generous number of officially-licensed Marvel, DC, and Star Wars versions. It doesn’t end there, however, as the Atlas 4.0 can also be optioned with a myriad of available visor color options. 

One of the coolest aspects of this helmet is its liner, which not only feels super plush and insanely comfortable, but it also manages to incorporates RHEON into its construction. Developed by NASA, RHEON is a cutting-eye reactive polymer that can remain soft and pliable under normal conditions before suddenly hardening upon impact — not unlike D30 armor. Additionally, another one of the most blatant selling points of the Atlas 4.0 is undoubtedly its unique appearance. Just like Arai’s helmets, Ruroc’s line of lids have an instantly-identifiable/recognizable look — one that I happen to really appreciate,  though I do recognize the Atlas 4.0’s aesthetics are definitely divisive. 

The use of RHEON on its own manages to pretty hugely bolster the Atlas 4.0’s overall protection. And, while I fortunately didn’t personally experience how the Atlas 4.0 performs in a crash, I’m confident the thing would likely fair quite well considering its ECE 22.06 status, DOT certification, and four-star SHARP rating. I also really liked the visor-swap setup on the gen-four Atlas. This proprietary tool-less system is comprised of a single hand-adjustable, quarter-turn fastener on both sides of the face shield at the pivot, where the face shield meets the helmet. Its ridiculously quick and easy to use, yet is also super secure, keeping the face shield devoid of any wobble, play, or rattle, even with the thing cracked open at freeway speeds. And, while they are able to ultimately achieve a super tight and effective seal against wind and wind noise, the Atlas 4.0’s face shield and gasket sometimes require an extra nudge in order to fully seat. 

Whether I’m using a classic double D-ring setup or a more modern micro-ratcheting unit, I pretty much always leave one glove off until fully securing my helmet, as most strap closures require a decent amount of tactile feel. The Atlas 4.0’s Fid-lock buckle is the one and only closure system that I’ve ever used that’s actually effortless to use when wearing riding gloves. What’s more, on top of being ridiculously easy to use, this magnetic, self-guiding, auto-coupling closure also affords just as snug and secure of a fit as a D-ring setup. While this may be a fairly minor detail, the Fid-lock really does elevate this helmet’s user experience as a whole — and is an element that I’d really like to start seeing used on helmets from other brands, as it really is a game-changer in my opinion. 

Supplementary Strengths 

At the very back of the base of the helmet’s neck roll is a small panel that can be popped off, revealing a small recess that the Shockwave comm unit and its control buttons perfectly slot into. This results in an ultra-clean setup that’s devoid of any protruding comm systems, antennas, or control buttons. With pre-embedded 1/8th” input jackets on either side of the interior and a depression slot for the microphone on the interior of the chin bar, installing the interior elements of the comm system is also a remarkably easy task. I was able to install the entire thing in a matter of minutes without requiring any instructions or diagrams. 

After delivering its game-changing Atlas 4.0 lid, Ruroc is no doubt acutely aware of just how much time, effort, and resources go into developing and engineering a novel product from the ground up. As such, when the company set out to produce an accompanying Bluetooth comm system made specifically for the Atlas 4.0, it opted to call in some help from leading industry experts rather than going it alone. So, to create the Shockwave comm system, Ruroc teamed up with eminent American audio brand Harmon Kardon, which was tasked with designing and tuning its drivers. The rest of the system comes courtesy of Cardo — one of the world’s two leading comm system purveyors — and not only offers compatibility with up to 15 other riders, but it also uses Cardo’s proprietary, class-leading long-range Dynamic Mesh Communication tech (though the Shockwave is also available in a Bluetooth version for around half-the-price. 

Connecting the Shockwave to my phone was about as easy as it gets. Turn it on, press the pairing button, select the Shockwave unit in my phone’s Bluetooth settings, and you’re good to go. From there, every time you turn the helmet near your smartphone, it automatically pairs. What’s more, its 10 hours of advertised battery life isn’t just an aspirational spec like some of the other accompanying comms on this list. After using it for a few weeks, I was actually surprised to see Ruroc cite 10 hours, as I’d have guessed this comm offers close to double that. I also love how the helmet tells you its remaining battery life every time you turn it on. 

One of the biggest complaints riders had about the Atlas 3.0 was its not-so-great sound-deadening, as the thing was pretty loud on the freeway. Recognizing this shortcoming, Ruroc has rectified this area, managing to deliver a fourth-generation model that’s some 57% quieter. Rivaled closely by Shoei’s GT Air II, Ruroc’s Atlas 4.0 is unequivocally one of the quietest helmets I’ve ever experienced. This not only allows the Shockwave comm system’s crystal clear, Harmon Kardon-tuned audio to come through, but it also makes for some of the clearest calling capabilities. At several points, the person on the other end of the call was fairly astonished to learn that I was on a motorcycle, on the freeway, traveling at speed while we were taking — as none of the sound from the wind, engine, tires, or other cars on the road could be heard.  

I also really like that the Atlas 4.0 Ships with both clear and tinted face shields — though Ruroc doesn’t include PINLOCK inserts, which have to be purchased separately for $30 a pop. Also of note is that for a small added fee, Ruroc offers something of an available insurance policy for new buyers of the Atlas 4.0 where they’re eligible to receive 50% off on another new helmet should their first one be damaged or destroyed in a crash. Not only is this an element that I seriously love, but it’s also one that I’d love to see other helmet manufacturers offer on their respective lids. 

The Not So Good

Between previously doing our best motorcycle helmets review and then more recently conducting testing of the best Bluetooth-ready moto lids, I’ve had access to a wealth of helmet options each day when I gear up. The fact I found myself gravitating towards the Atlas 4.0 ultimately speaks volumes about this helmet’s overall quality and performance — and no doubt speaks to just how much I thoroughly enjoyed using it. With that said, I did have a few, mostly minor gripes that I came across while testing. First off, the portion of the shell that protrudes up around the nose is a bit more visible than I’d like it to be. Sure, it doesn’t actually obstruct my view in any significant way, but it’s still a little distracting/annoying at times. With that said, this design element definitely plays a role in the Atlas 4.0 achieving its idiosyncratic appearance — which is one of my favorite parts of this helmet. 

Second, it’s also very much worth noting that the Shockwave Mesh comes in at $429, while the Shockwave Bluetooth is only $219 — or $200 when purchased with the helmet. When paired with the $595 MSRP of the Atlas 4.0 Carbon, you’re spending over a grand — and that’s before shipping, taxes, or any add-ons such as a helmet bag, extra face shields, or PINLOCK inserts. The Atlas 4.0’s Achilles heel, however, is no doubt the location of its comm system’s control unit. The control panel is positioned at the very back of the neck roll, and while this does keep the control unit out of the way, but it also makes it exceedingly difficult to use — even when not riding. In fact, this is quite possibly the most awkward possible placement for the control unit. Fortunately, 95% of the time, I control everything using my phone rather than the physical buttons on a comm system, so it’s hard to deduct too many points for this. 

Verdict: If cutting-edge features and a unique appearance at at the top of your list of priorities, you’d be hard pressed to find a better brain bucket than Ruroc’s Atlas 4.0 Carbon, as its laundry list of advanced features and available comm options unequivocally make it one of the best helmets on the market. 

AGV Sportmodular

Best Modular Pick: A true marvel of engineering, the thoroughly top-shelf AGV Sportmodular is an Italian-made, carbon fiber-shelled modular helmet that offers the absolute pinnacle of protection while tipping the scales at around 3lbs. The world’s very first all-carbon fiber construction modular motorcycle helmet, the aptly-named Sportmodular boasts a generous slew of decidedly premium features that collectively result in a true watershed brain bucket. Alongside delivering this game-changer of a helmet, the Italian brand has also partnered with Sena in order to deliver a custom-developed comm known as the AGV ARK. 

The Good

Using carbon fiber for both its main construction and flip-up chin-bar, the Sportmodular’s shell is produced in three sizes, all of which sit over an advanced five-density EPS foam liner. Additionally, the shell also uses super sturdy alloy construction chin-bar locking posts, along with AGV’s Integrated Ventilation System. Inside, the lid gets cheek pads crafted from Ritmo and moisture-wicking 2Dry, a dual-climate reversible crown pad, and a neck-roll that’s trimmed in Shalimar and Nabuk fabric, both of which get a water-resistant treatment. 

Considering the fact that this is a modern modular helmet that’s brimming with features, its roughly 3-pound weight is nothing short of remarkable — plus it still manages to achieve full DOT and ECE 22.05 certification status. What’s more, between its ridiculously plush interior and padding and its incredibly svelte, roughly-three-pound weight, the Sportmodular is legitimately one of the most comfortable helmets I’ve ever worn — and would no doubt be one of my first choices for touring duties. And, though it’s not quite as versatile or well-rounded in my opinion, AGV also offers the also-stellar Tourmodular helmet, which is very similar to the Sportmodular, albeit a bit more touring-focused. 

The Sportmodular’s ventilation system is also pretty next-level, featuring a suite of open and closable ports — including an adjustable chin-bar intake, an open and closable intake port at the forehead, and a rear extractor that flips up to let air out while also doubling as an aerodynamic spoiler. I also thoroughly appreciate that the Sportmodular features a field of vision with an 85° vertical range and a 190° horizontal view. Considering the human eyes’ FOV is nearly 180°, this means the Sportmodular’s view port offers a totally unobstructed perspective. And, like every other AGV helmet I’ve ever used, owned, or tested, the Sportmodular’s build quality is fantastic. The lid also comes fitted with AGV’s optical-grade GT3 face shield that ships from the factory with a PINLOCK insert. 

One of the coolest and most unique features of this helmet is undoubtedly its patented, reversible double-face crown pad. One side is cut from Shalimar fabric (warmer side) while the opposite side is composed of Ritmo fabric — the former of which is meant for use on warmer days while the latter is made for cooler weather or climates. I was a little skeptical of how noticeable the two different sides would be, but the difference is quite apparent — especially on particularly warm or cold days. In addition to be reversible, the interior crown and padding is also washable, and super easy to remove. Alongside the interior padding, the Sportmodular also comes loaded with a removable nose guard and a removable wind protector. 

Supplementary Strengths 

Just from looking at it, you can tell the Sportmodular has a particularly sleek and aerodynamic shape, though you don’t realize just how slippery its form is until experiencing it on the freeway, as it’s able to cut through the wind while remaining remarkably stable. As such, I wasn’t at all surprised to learn that the Sportmodular is able to achieve an unparalleled dynamic weight of zero speeds of 80mph. For those that aren’t privy to exactly what that number actually means, just know it’s wildly impressive. Its next-level aerodynamics and envelop-pushing drag-coefficient also make the Sportmodular even more comfortable when worn for extended periods. 

The Sportmodular uses a traditional double-D ring closure, though the design has been brought to life using a titanium construction. I’ve never found the stainless steel D-rings to be particularly cumbersome, though I nonetheless appreciate this decidedly top-shelf detail on the Sportmodular. I also love how the Sportmodular borrows a few features from AGV’s super-premium race helmets like the Corsa and Pista GP RR, including its glove-friendly mechanical visor lock button, to its face shield’s quick-release/quick-change system. And, just like on its super-premium race helmets, AGV also offers a series of small pads and inserts that can be used to more precisely dial-in the lid’s fitment.

Yet another major highlight of the Sportmodular is unquestionably its optional ARK comm system. On top of sporting a built-in FM radio tuner complete with both scan and save functions, the ARK features Audio Overlay (i.e. audio multitasking) capabilities, Bluetooth 4.1 connectivity, a range of around a mile, connectivity to a dedicated smartphone app, and voice control capabilities. One of my very favorite aspects of the comm, however, is undoubtedly its smart volume control, which automatically adjusts volume based on how loud your surroundings are. This was especially noticeable when going from crowded and congested freeways to quite residential streets. With just three physical buttons, the ARK is super easy to use and its layout is ridiculously easy to memorize. I didn’t find the ARK’s audio quality to be lacking, but it also wasn’t particularly special. I was, however, more than impressed with the call quality the comm offers — though this may partially be owed to its boom mic. 

Additionally, the ARK’s battery is said to offer around 9 or 10 hours of use per charge, which I found to be inline with its real-world performance. Having personally owned one of these helmets for several years, I can attest to the fact that its battery life does diminish a bit over time — though this is more of a battery-tech issue that applies to pretty much all modern cells more than its an issue that’s unique to AGV or the ARK. As a modular helmet, I also really appreciate that the Sportmodular’s dedicated comm comes with an optional boom-style mic. And, just like Schuberth’s super premium SC2 comm, the ARK benefits from the use of Sena’s Advanced Noise Control, plus is compatible with AGV’s optional handlebar-mounted remote controller. 

The Not So Good

It’s abundantly clear that an enormous amount of time and resources went into developing the Sportmodular, as it’s just a phenomenal helmet overall. Having said that, I did stumble across a few minor issues during the time I spent testing it. First off, unlike every other helmet on this list — which all feature comm systems that neatly intregrate into recesses, compartments, or ports — the Sportmodular’s ARK intercom mounts directly to the outside of the helmet’s shell. Because it follows the lines of the bottom of the helmet, it’s obvious that the ARK is custom-designed for the Sportmodular, though its appearance simply isn’t as tidy or well-integrated as most other high-end Bluetooth-ready brain buckets on the market. 

Next, while I was generally pretty impressed with the ARK, I do wish that it featured Mesh connectivity rather than just Bluetooth — not to mention it only uses 4.1 Bluetooth tech, rather than the newer 5.0 found on other comms like Schuberth’s SC2 unit. Finally, with an MSRP starting at $860 and the ARK comm costing an additional $280, you’re looking at a total price of around $1,150, and that’s before tax, shipping, or any add-ons — and that’s assuming you want a bare carbon or solid color model and not one of the more expensive design versions. Considering the quality of the helmet, its bevy of features, and its top-shelf material selection, I’d actually argue this $1,150 figure is wholly justifiable — though over a grand is still a lot to spend on a lid, even if it’s a cutting-edge Italian-made all-carbon modular model that’s equipped with a state-of-the-art comm. 

Verdict: Between its insanely-svelte weight, top-notch craftsmanship, and incredibly stable and aerodynamic form, the AGV Sportmodular manages to put a premium, Italian spin on modular helmets. So, while it doesn’t come cheap, this helmet’s long list of features and highlights make its MSRP easy to justify. 

Schuberth S3

Best Premium Pick: Based in Germany, Schuberth has been making world-class helmets for more-than-a-century. Alongside crafting race helmets for elite Formula 1 drivers, Schuberth also makes some of the best premium motorcycle lids  on the market. And for proof of this, look no further than the Schuberth S3. Offering the high-performance and ample safety of race and track lids while also affording the comfort and versatility of touring models, the S3 is a feature-laden full-face brain bucket that’s as feature-laden and calculated as it is objectively top-shelf. On its own, the S3 is a truly fantastic lid, but the thing is further elevated by its available SC2 comm system — the latter of which is unequivocally the best plug-and-play unit that money can currently buy. 

The Good

Helping it to achieve both ECE 22.06 and DOT certifications, the construction of the SC2’s shell is pretty noteworthy. It uses a Schuberth’s “Direct Fiber Processing” tech which sees a directly-processed fiberglass construction further reinforced with carbon fiber, thereby allowing more maximum shock and impact absorption while remaining incredibly lightweight, with the entire thing tipping the scales at under 4lbs — comm and all. Produced in 7 sizes, the helmet’s outer shell sits over an equally-advanced multi-piece EPS liner. The S3’s laundry list of features and highlights also includes an integrated visor that benefits from the use of the German brand’s patented V-lock mechanism, the company’s “Schuberth Rescue System,” and a micro-ratcheting chin-strap that not only uses the Schuberth’s Anti Roll Off System, but it’s also fairly easy to close when wearing gloves — not quite as easy as a Fid-lock, but a somewhat close second. The helmet also ships with an SV6 face shield with a preinstalled PINLOCK insert. 

The Schuberth S3 is incredibly comfortable, and was clearly designed to be worn for extended periods. This obviously makes it perfect for touring, though it lends itself just as well to commuting and daily use. Its shell is also ridiculously aerodynamic, and is both stable at speed, and doesn’t catch a ton of wind when looking over your shoulder. As an elite brand that also produces helmets for Formula 1 drivers, it shouldn’t come as a surprise to hear that the overall craftsmanship, build quality, and fit and finish on the S3 is truly second to none — a fact that actually speaks volumes considering how stellar the construction is on lids from other leading brands like Shoei and AGV. 

Most of the time, I tend to give the ventilation system on helmets a simple pass or fail rating, as there usually isn’t much to write home about in this regard, but this isn’t the case with the S3. Though its suite of intake and exhaust ports are highly effective, there’s a lot more going on here than that. The front of the lid features a double chin air intake with an integrated swappable and washable filter, while the shell’s spoiler features an air extractor that does an incredible job of drawing hot air up and out of the helmet. After extensively testing the thing, I was in no way surprised to learn that Schuberth spent a considerable amount of time using its in-house wind tunnel when developing the S3. 

Another small but noteworthy element on the S3 is what Schuberth calls its “City Position” mechanism, which keeps the visor slightly cracked, allowing fresh air to more freely enter, thereby preventing the helmet from getting stuffy or fogging up when stopped or moving at very low speeds — a setup that’s similar to the “First Position” found on the Shoei GT Air II. Thanks to a highly-effective visor gasket and a cleverly-designed neck roll, the S3 is insanely quite — a statement that’s far from hyperbolic, as the thing allows for just 85 decibels at speeds of 60mph, and on a naked bike, too.

The S3 also massively benefits from Schuberth’s Individual Program, which gives the option of having the lid’s head and cheek pads custom-sized, practically guaranteeing a perfect, bespoke fit — a thoroughly premium option that not only makes for a more comfortable, better-fitting helmet, but also a markedly safer one as well. This does come at an extra cost, but you don’t buy a Schuberth helmet is you’re looking to pinch pennies, as the thing is premium through and through. 

Supplementary Strengths

The German brand’s S3 is massively elevated by its custom-designed comm system, the SC2. Developed with help from Sena, the comm gets a trio of embedded antennas for FM radio, and the ability to be paired with a smartphone app that allows you to adjust settings or go from Mesh to Bluetooth modes. Sound quality is not only fantastic, but it’s also one of the quietest helmets I’ve tested, ultimately allowing for crystal clear calls where the person on the other end had no idea I was riding. I also really like how the comm can be optioned with Schuberth’s handlebar-mounted RC4 comm controller — which allows you to adjust volume and music playback and the like, even when wearing non-touchscreen-compatible riding gloves. Additionally, the comm also comes standard with voice-control comparability, as well as access to Google and Apple voice assistants. 

Above and beyond being an objectively top-shelf helmet, I love how ridiculously easy it is to install the SC2 comm system into the S3 helmet. The epitome of a plug-and-play unit, the SC2 neatly slots into a small recess at the back of the helmet that sits beneath a removable cover. You simply plug the comm unit into this slot, tack the control unit onto the side of the lid, and you’re done. While every other Bluetooth-ready helmet on the market requires that you install and wire-in the speakers and mic, the S3 comes preinstalled with these elements, meaning all you have to do is plug the comm into the back of the helmet — making the installation’s level of difficulty on par with inserting a thumb-drive into a USB slot. 

The SC2 comm features a more-than-half-mile range, audio multi-tasking capabilities, and both Mesh 2.0 tech and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity. Also of note is the comm’s state-of-the-art, advanced noise control technology, which operates similarly to active noise cancelation on cutting-edge headphones and wireless earbuds. The comm is also sold with an included boom microphone that can be installed, replacing the low-profile unit that the helmet comes preinstalled with from the factory. Schuberth advertises the SC2 comm as offering at least 12 hours of battery life — a figure I actually found to be pretty conservative, as I was able to get closer to 20 hours of use per charge when only using the comm for listening to music. 

The Not So Good

My complaints with this helmet were genuinely few and far between — and mostly stem from the S3 and SC2’s pricing. The S3 helmet starts at $599 for the solid color options, and jumps up to $699 for the graphic versions. Meanwhile, the SC2 comm comes in at $349 — bringing the total up to either $948 or $1,048, and that’s before tax, shipping, or any additional add-ons or options. This is just quite a bit to spend on a helmet — though I’d argue that you really do get what you pay for here. Additionally, part of what you’re paying for here is the convenience of the plug-and-play comm. With that said, if you plan on using a different comm system or a unit you already own with the S3, you’re essentially paying for a few pricey pieces of preinstalled hardware that you don’t need. I also wouldn’t mind seeing Schuberth offer the S3 in a few more color options and patterns, though this is purely subjective (and fairly inconsequential all-things-considered). 

Verdict: Made by a German brand that’s also responsible for producing race lids for F1 drivers, the Schuberth S3 is an ultra-premium full-face all-arounder that benefits from a cutting-edge comm system offering the easiest plug-and-play installation of any helmet currently on the market. If you don’t mind spending a few extra bucks, this is undoubtedly one of, if not your single best option for a Bluetooth-ready brain bucket. 

Shoei GT Air II

Editor’s Pick: Back in 2013, Shoei first introduced the world to its GT Air motorcycle helmet. After proving to be immensely popular, this versatile sport-touring lid was comprehensively redesigned, giving way to the GT Air II in 2019. Despite its age, Shoei’s second-generation GT Air remains one of the best full-face all-arounder options on the market — plus it was one of the very first moto lids to receive its own custom-designed accompanying comm system, and it’s played an instrumental role in kicking off this now-common trend. 

The Good

Made in Japan, the helmet is crafted around a multi-ply Matrix Advanced Integrated Plus shell offered in three shell sizes. Set over a multi-piece EPS liner, the shell features a more aerodynamic design with a molded air spoiler and a robust ventilation system with a trio of intakes and half-a-dozen exhaust ports. Weighing in at less than 4lbs, the helmet also comes fitted with a QSV-2 drop-down sun shield, a micro-ratcheting chin-strip, an emergency quick-release system, a 3-D Max-Dry center pad, multi-layered, polyurethane foam cheek pads, and a CNS-1 three-dimensionally curved face shield that’s sold with an included pin-lock.

Along the very bottom of the GT Air II, just ahead of the visor pivots, are two small triangular-shaped elements. When used by itself, these pieces can be left in place, though for those that want to install the helmet’s available Shoei SRL II Bluetooth Headset By Sena, these panels can be removed, revealing small recesses that the comm system can neatly integrate into. This results in an ultra-clean setup that’s nearly flush with the helmet — rather than most comm systems which stick onto the outside of a lid and protrude out from the side of the helmet. Even though this design first hit the market half-a-decade ago, I’d argue the GT Air II still does one of the best jobs of integrating its comm of any Bluetooth-ready helmets on the market.  

Firmware-upgradeable, this comm features Bluetooth 4.1 connectivity, voice prompts, around half-a-dozen hours of real-world battery life, a built-in FM radio tuner, a compact unibody design, connectivity to an available iOS and Android app, and, when not obstructed by mountains or buildings, a one-mile range. As a universal intercom, it’s also able to communicate with other headsets from other brands — like Cardo. Another one of my favorite features of this helmet and comm is the latter’s ability to share music between the rider and their passenger. With motorcycles being one of my biggest passions in life, I really appreciate any feature or technology that allows me to make the two-upping experience more enjoyable for my better half (who doesn’t typically happen to share my proclivity for riding). The placement of the comm’s control unit on the left side of the bottom of the helmet also makes it super easy to use and access while riding at speed. The fact that it only uses a few buttons also makes it just as easy to memorize the setup and layout. 

The sound quality and clarity afforded by the Shoei SRL II Bluetooth Headset By Sena is pretty stellar. It does a fantastic job of drowning out wind, road, and engine noise, plus its sound doesn’t become distorted when the volume is cranked up. The comm’s extraordinary audio quality is further helped along by the fact that the GT Air II happens to be one of the quietest lids we’ve ever tested. As such, the thing unsurprisingly performed wonderfully in our freeway/highway call test. 

Supplementary Strengths

Lengthened by around 0.02” compared to the first-gen GT Air, the GT Air II’s QSV-2 sun visor works exactly as advertised, not only sitting on an ultra-smooth track, but controlled by an external slider that’s particularly easy to operate when wearing gloves. So long as it does its job and doesn’t fog up super easily, I typically don’t really notice or pay much attention to the face shields on full-face helmets. With that said, I couldn’t help but take notice of how truly exceptional the GT Air II’s CNS-1 face shield is. Shipping with an included PINLOCK EVO lens insert, the CNS-1 is damn-near impervious to fogging, and does an equally-impressive job of mitigating glare and resisting scuffs and scratching. Though Fid-lock-equipped units are by far my favorite, I still really liked the micro-ratcheting chin-strap closure used on the GT Air II, as it’s more secure than traditional double D-ring setups and allows for easier, more precise adjustments, plus is much easier to manipulate and use when wearing gloves — even thick winter riding gloves. 

Another small but meaningful touch found on the GT Air II is what Shoei calls “first position”, which is a feature that allows the visor to be cracked open around a quarter-of-an-inch, allowing ample fresh air into the helmet when stopped at a stoplight or when crawling through traffic. Having said that, I do wish the GT Air’s “first position” was mechanically-locking — like the similar feature used on AGV’s Corsa and Sportmodular lids — rather than just relying on friction. At just 3.79lbs, the GT Air II is also fairly lightweight for a full-face sport-touring helmet — especially for one with a ratcheting chin-strap, drop-down visor, emergency quick-release system, and an available onboard comm. 

In typical Shoei fashion, the GT Air II’s build quality is superb. Its handworked construction is extremely evident — and in the best way possible. Because it’s been on the market for around five years (as of the time of writing) and has been so popular that entire time, Shoei offers the second-generation GT Air in a huge slew of available color options, patterns, and designs — including a Marc Márquez version for all you MotoGP fans. At the end of the day, Shoei’s GT Air II is just an amazing all-arounder helmet, lending itself just as well to daily commuting as it does weekend canyon-carving sessions or long-range touring. It’s also worth noting that Shoei makes an extremely similar, modular version of the GT Air II known as the Neotec II. 

The Not So Good

As you can probably glean from its immense and continued popularity, the GT Air II is simply a fantastic motorcycle lid. With that said, it’s not perfect, and does have a few minor issues here and there — most of which stem from its age. For starters, because its comm system was designed, developed, and released half-a-decade-ago, some aspects of it have grown a bit long in the tooth — such as its battery life, which is limited to around 6 to 8 hours right out of the box. I originally acquired my GT Air II at the helmet’s official press and media launch back in 2019 and have used it and its comm system extensively since then. Over the subsequent five-or-so-years, the battery life on my unit has diminished to around 4 hours per charge, too. This is particularly disappointing as Shoei and Sena advertise the SRL II as offering 10 hours of use per charge. Fortunately, I still only had to charge the thing up once every few days. The voice prompts are also a little difficult to use and simply aren’t as advanced or effective as more modern system’s voice control compatibility — even with the benefit of firmware upgrades. 

Next, while I think it’s completely justifiable considering the quality, craftsmanship, materials, features, and seamlessly-integrated tech, there’s no getting around the fact that the Shoei GT Air II is a fairly expensive Bluetooth helmet, as the lid itself MSRPs at $700 (and goes up from there depending on color options) and the SRL II headset comes in at $299 — bringing your total up to approximately $1,000, and that’s before tax and shipping, meaning you’re looking at somewhere between $1,100 and $1,250, all told. Not an outrageous amount by any means, but still a decent amount to drop on a brain bucket. Lastly, while it doesn’t actual impact the performance or user experience of the second-generation GT Air, it’s nonetheless crucial to note that Shoei has already released a GT Air III model that’s not currently sold on U.S. shores. As such, you may want to consider waiting for the gen-three before pulling the trigger on the GT Air II. 

Verdict: The Shoei GT Air II is a remarkable all-arounder lid combining the Japanese brand’s usual top-notch craftsmanship and material selection with a host of genuinely practical and useful features — including an available Sena comm system that neatly integrates into the shell. 

Bluetooth-Ready Motorcycle Helmets Comparison Chart

What Are Bluetooth-Ready Motorcycle Helmets?

There are admittedly motorcycle helmets that come straight from the factory with built-in comm systems, however, the reality is that — with the exception of one or two models — most of these lids are of extremely low quality, offer lackluster protection, and often subpar comm performance. Fortunately, as comm systems become increasingly essential for riders, more and more of today’s most reputable helmet brands have begun partnering with leading comm systems companies — like Cardo and Sena — to produce units that are custom designed to neatly integrate into a specific brain bucket.

While this does mean making two separate purchases — which can typically be bought from a single retailer — it’s still a markedly easier, more convenient, and user-friendly experience, as these helmets come straight from the factory with recesses for microphones, speakers, and the necessary wiring. On top of often being of the simple plug-and-play variety, many of the units to control these comms also neatly integrated into the helmet, oftentimes with small panels that can be removed to accommodate the comm.

What’s The Differences Between Mesh & Bluetooth Tech?

Before you can start considering which comm system to buy, it helps to have a basic understanding of the two main types that exist. Bluetooth comms use what’s called “daisy-chain pairing,” which uses a rigid chain setup with each comm system piggy-backing off of the next. One of the major downsides here is that if one of the riders drops out or loses signal, the rest of the riders’ comm systems in the chain also disconnect (as a single “link” in this broken chain completely disengages the entire system). What’s more, the more riders there are using this daisy chain system, the weaker the signal will be. This means that every time the chain is broken — or every time you turn off the comm system — it has to be manually rebooted and reconnected in order to be paired with the other comms (and/or the primary user’s smartphone).

On the other hand, with newer, more-advanced mesh systems, each individual comm system acts as its own communication hub that utilizes software that constantly attempts to connect with other nearby units in the best and most efficient way possible, creating a dynamic web rather than a rigid chain. Mesh systems also allow users to select from one of a myriad of specific mesh channels — not unlike using channels on a walkie-talkie. What’s more, mesh comms don’t need to be reconnected or paired every time that they’re used, and instead, automatically pair or reconnect to the comm’s network once turned back on or back in range — even after being left unused for a year or more. Best of all, pairing a dozen mesh comm systems is no more difficult than pairing two — unlike Bluetooth systems that each have to be individually connected/reconnected each time.

Another important factor that separates mesh systems from their Bluetooth-enabled counterparts is the overall strength and quality of the signal, with mesh units offering an objectively superior experience and higher performance. And, while Bluetooth technology is fairly standard across the board — aside from which generation of the tech is being used — the two biggest leading brands in the moto comm space — Sena and Cardo — utilize their own proprietary mesh technologies, with the former offering “Mesh 2.0” and the latter using DMC — or “Dynamic Mesh Communication.”

Why To Avoid All-In-One/Pre-Installed Bluetooth Helmets

While there are only a handful of models on the market at the moment, Bluetooth helmets that come preloaded with comm systems tend to not be very good lids, with build quality and overall safety that really leaves something to be desired. Modern comm systems are usually priced at between $150 and $400, while brain buckets that come preinstalled with comms — such as those from Sedici, BILT, and Sena — typically cost anywhere from $250 to $600. When you deduct the cost of the comm system, you’re essentially left with a very cheap and fairly low-quality helmet. Sure, it is more convenient only having to make one purchase and not having to install anything, but the level of quality and protection offered by these helmets is seriously lacking compared to many of the more high-end helmets on the market that can be optioned with custom-designed, purpose-built comms. 

By opting for a helmet with its own available dedicated comm, you’re able to get the best of both worlds, without having to skimp on the quality of the comm or the helmet itself. Plus, whether you’re after an adventure riding helmet, a modular, or a full-face, there’s no shortage of great options for lids with available dedicated comms. Quite a few reputable helmet manufacturers are developing their own smart helmets, so this reality may change over the coming year or two, but as of the time of writing, there isn’t a single pre-instaleld Bluetooth helmet model on the market that I’d feel good about using to protect my head and brain — or recommending for others to do so. 

What To Consider When Shopping For A Bluetooth-Ready Helmet?

If you’ve never purchased a new motorcycle helmet, it can be a little tricky knowing what to look for. So, with this in mind, we’ve pieced together this condensed guide on the six most crucial areas to consider before buying your next brain bucket.

Materials & Construction: The single biggest factor that determines a helmet’s overall quality — and the level of protection it affords — is the materials used to make it, more specifically, the construction of the shell and its underlying, impact-absorbing liner. While most liners are of the EPS variety, shells come in a wide range of constructions ranging from fiberglass to carbon fiber to various cutting-edge composites. Likewise, you’ll also want to look into the type of lining and construction(s) used for interior elements such as the cheek pads — many of which are removable, machine-washable, quick-drying, moisture-wicking, and antimicrobial.

Ventilation & Noise: This area has always been a delicate balancing act, as airflow and ventilation are crucial to keeping the rider cool, though excessive wind can also be incredibly loud — to the point where it can actually damage a rider’s hearing. The noisiness of a helmet becomes even more important when dealing with comm systems, as ample wind noise will make it exceedingly difficult for you to hear music or calls (or have the person on the other end of the call hear you). The good news here is that more and more of today’s comm systems now rely on active noise cancelation tech to drown out unwanted wind noise and bolster call and audio clarity.

Weight: Because a helmet’s weight is supported by the rider’s neck, weight is another hugely important area to review when buying a helmet. Fortunately, advancements in this area have resulted in some incredibly lightweight materials and models that still offer cutting-edge levels of protection. Comm systems are also designed to be as lightweight as possible so they don’t add unnecessary heft.

Shell Size & Fit: For a helmet to properly do its job and be as effective as possible, it needs to snugly fit its wearer. In an effort to achieve a more precise — and therefore effective — fit, many of today’s more premium helmet makers produce models in a variety of different shell sizes. Alongside the materials, constructions, and bells and whistles, the number of shell sizes offered is a key area that separates more high-end models from their more budget-minded counterparts.

Comm-Readiness: Practically any helmet on the market can be fitted with an aftermarket comm system, though a growing number of today’s best helmets are now offered with accompanying comm systems that were custom-engineered to fit them. This area mainly boils down to how well the comm has been integrated into the design of the helmet.

Additional Amenities: Manufacturers have been bestowing helmets with an increasing number of supplementary bells and whistles in recent years. This includes features like pin-lock-ready face shields, emergency quick-release systems, internal drop-down sun visors, and ratcheting or FIDLOCK chin straps, just to name a few. There are even helmets on the market with built-in crash detection software and SOS beacons.

What To Consider When Shopping For A Comm System?

Communication systems can also make for a somewhat intimidating shopping experience, so we’ve gone ahead and written up this short guide on six of the most important elements to take into account when buying a moto comm system.

Audio Quality: Because the entire purpose of a comm system is to allow its user to listen to music and GPS directions or take phone calls, audio quality is unsurprisingly extremely important. Luckily, the makers of today’s best comm systems are well aware of this and often call on reputable audio brands — like JBL or Harmon Kardon — to design the drivers, speakers, and mics used in these comms. This audio quality can also be bolstered by the use of active noise-canceling tech.

Technology & Connectivity: Next to audio quality, the other most important factor that determines a comm’s overall performance is the type of technology (or technologies) that it uses. The two main types of tech used for helmets are Bluetooth and Mesh, as discussed above. Most of today’s comm systems can also be paired with smartphone apps.

Range: This is a fairly straightforward area of consideration, as it tells you how far away two riders can be before losing signal or connection. Not only will these figures hugely vary depending on whether the system is running a mesh or Bluetooth setup, but this area will also be impacted by the region and typography in which the comm is being used, as clear unobstructed landscapes allow for greater range than hilly valleys or other locales with large obstructions or buildings.

Rider Compatability: This area denotes how many individual users can link into the same comm network — a crucial feature for group rides. While chances are you’ll seldom be linking up with more than a handful of riders, most of today’s systems can accommodate a dozen or more users at once. It’s also worth factoring in how a specific comm system goes about pairing with other devices, as some make this process substantially easier than others.

Battery Life & Talk Time: Another extremely important area to consider when buying a comm system is battery life, as this will limit the amount of talk time or music playback time you can get on a single charge. Luckily — largely thanks to advancements with gadgets like smartphone batteries — the cells in modern comm systems typically afford at least 10 hours of use before needing to be returned to a charger.

Additional Amenities: Just like with helmets themselves, comm systems often come outfitted with a host of supplementary elements to add more value or convenience. These include features and functions such as an onboard FM radio and connectivity to dedicated smartphone apps and turn-by-turn GPS directions.

Honorable Mentions

Offering terrific bang-for-your-buck, the Quin Phantom is a carbon-fiber-shelled full-face helmet that comes with a pre-installed comm system and a built-in crash detection system and an emergency SOS system beacon. Add in a micro-ratchet chin-strap and DOT and ECE certification, and you’ve got a bargain of a Bluetooth helmet. 

I’m typically not a big fan of helmets that come with preinstalled comm systems, though one of the best to do it thus far has undeniably been Sena with its Stryker lid. Priced at just $500, the Sena Stryker high-tech brain bucket boasts both Mesh and Bluetooth connectivity, plus features premium speakers and a microphone that come courtesy of the audio experts at Harman Kardon.

The Forcite MK1S is a true modern-day smart helmet that sees a carbon fiber shell design infused with an onboard comm system and action camera — plus the thing is even sold with an optional speaker upgrade from Master & Dynamic. Unable to get our hands on a unit in time for testing, the MK1S has been relegated to an honorable mention.  

The Shoei OpticSon is the first-ever cutting-edge smart helmet to come from an elite and establish helmet manufacturer. This all-in-one smart helmet features the Japanese brand’s usual top-notch materials and build quality, though also sports an onboard HUD, a comm system, and an action camera embedded in the chin-bar. Because this helmet isn’t yet sold on U.S. shores, we were unable to put a unit through our hands-on testing process, forcing us to make this presumably stellar helmet a particularly honorable mention. 

Tested: The Best Motorcycle Helmets For Everyday Riding

Not yet sold on the concept of comms and prefer traditional brain buckets? Then be sure to cruise over to our guide to and hands-on review of the best motorcycle helmets for our favorite lids from each main category.