When you look out on the road, you will see a riders of all sorts. You have your cruiser riders, adventure riders, scooter riders and sports bike enthusiasts to name a few. Different helmets have specific target markets and functions to suit.
Full Face Helmets:
A full face helmet is the most typical helmet sold for road riders. It is a solid shell with fixed a fixed chin bar(chin covering section). The visor will generally lift to expose the nose and eyes. The helmet shell(exterior main part of helmet) is usually moulded to account for aerodynamics and varies for different sizes.
Open Face Helmets:
These helmets are cover the top of the head as well as the ears. The leave the chin exposed and are usually popular with classic or cruiser bike riders due to the 'traditional' style. The face is most exposed with this style of helmet but it does allow for a lot of airflow and prevents the rider from feeling claustrophobic.
Modular Helmets:
Also commonly know as 'flip up' helmets. These helmets conveniently allow for the chin bar and visor of the helmet to be opened and effectively become an open face helmet. This helmet style is generally slightly heavier due to the extra parts required to allow for the additional functionality. The advantage of this helmet is that it can be opened and closed on demand depending on conditions and the riders requirements.
Dual Sport and Adventure helmets:
Adventure bike riders will be going on and off road. They are considered full face helmets but the main difference with an adventure helmet is the addition of a peak and larger viewing port. The peak provides shade as well protection against riders flicking up rocks and dirt. You are able to tilt your head downwards and use the peak to protect your eyes. The larger viewing port allows for much better visibility when looking down in front of you as adventure riders will need to assess upcoming terrain.
Helmet shell construction
Helmets can be divided into 2 main shell construction categories. ABS plastics and fibreglass. ABS plastics helmets are generally much cheaper to make as they are injection moulded and easier to make. The disadvantage is that they are not as protective as their fibreglass counterparts. Plastic motorcycle helmets pass minimum standards but fibreglass helmets will far exceed the bare minimum. This means fibreglass helmets are generally safer and perform better in the event of impact. They tend to also be lighter but do come in at a higher price point. ABS helmets can be found for under $400 while most fibreglass helmets will be north of this and can reach several thousand dollars.