Undecided between a full face or modular helmet? Let’s closely examine the features you should consider when choosing the perfect helmet for your needs.
Evaluating Helmet Types for Optimal Safety
If it’s time to replace your trusty helmet that has accompanied you on countless motorcycle adventures, or if you’re finally getting the bike you’ve always wanted and need the right helmet to hit the road, you might be wondering whether a full face or modular helmet is the better option.
As you may expect, there is no definitive answer that applies to every rider or every situation. Both full face and modular helmets, when approved and of high quality, can be used safely on the road. The key is to assess their specific features to determine which type best suits your needs and riding habits.
Understanding Full Face and Modular Helmets
To begin, let’s clarify the differences between a full-face helmet and a modular helmet.
A full-face helmet is designed with a single shell that offers protection for both the head and the chin.
On the other hand, a modular helmet, also known as a flip-up helmet, features a shell that can be separated from the chin guard. By pressing a release button at the front, you can detach the chin guard when desired. When the chin guard is lowered, a modular helmet provides complete protection for both the head and the chin, just like a full-face helmet. However, when the chin guard is raised, the protection is only for the head.
It’s important to note that flip-up helmets can have different approvals, including as full-face helmets, as jet helmets, and as both full-face and jet helmets. These approvals impact the level of protection provided.
Key Features of Full Face Helmets
While a full face helmet offers comprehensive head protection, a modular helmet approved as “P” or “P/J” can achieve the same level of safety. However, there are some distinguishing features of a typical full-face helmet:
- Lighter weight compared to a modular helmet
- Quieter in terms of noise level
Drift Evo, Caberg’s top-of-the-range full-face helmet
Advantages of Modular Helmets
Modular helmets provide the convenience of lifting the chin guard, offering more versatility in various situations.
Remember to check the approval label on the helmet strap. If it’s “P approved,” you can raise the chin guard only when the vehicle is stationary. However, if it’s “P/J approved,” you can use the flip-up helmet with the chin guard raised even while in motion.
Here are the benefits of a “P/J approved” modular helmet:
- Perfect for urban riding or areas with reduced speed
- Practical for all weather conditions (lift the chin guard for ventilation on hot days, close it for increased protection against wind and rain)
- Comfortable in any situation (raise the chin guard for better visibility or to communicate with fellow riders)
Levo, Caberg’s top-of-the-range modular helmet
Whether you prefer a full face or modular helmet, Caberg offers numerous models that cater to all your needs and aesthetic preferences.
Check out our full range of Caberg modular helmets here, and explore our selection of full-face helmets here.
