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You want a helmet that looks right on your cruiser but also protects your head on a long ride. The hard part is knowing which safety features actually matter. The Bell Pit Boss (Tri-Matrix composite shell, DOT & ECE22.06) gives you the best balance of premium materials and certified protection without the crazy price. If you want the flexibility of an open face that converts to full coverage, the ScorpionEXO Covert 2 is the clever pick. The Harssidanzar CU601 (1.06 Kg, DOT, ABS shell) is the lightest and most affordable retro 3/4 option for a tight budget.
I’m Min Islam — the founder and writer behind Trending Car. This guide is built by comparing the manufacturers’ published specifications and the patterns across verified customer reviews, so you get each pick’s real strengths and trade-offs instead of marketing spin.
The biggest choice you face is between an open-face 3/4 helmet (lets you feel the wind) and a full-face model (gives you more coverage). This guide helps you find the right balance for your riding style among the best cruiser motorcycle helmets.
Our Picks at a Glance
How To Choose The Best Cruiser Motorcycle Helmets
Choosing a cruiser helmet is about more than looks. You need a helmet that fits well, meets safety standards, and works for the kind of riding you actually do. Here are the key factors to weigh before you buy.
Safety Certifications: DOT (legal minimum) vs. ECE22.06 (tougher tests)
The first thing to check is whether a helmet meets the Department of Transportation (DOT) standard, which is the legal minimum in the US. A higher level of protection comes from the ECE22.06 standard (a European regulation with more rigorous impact and abrasion tests). Some helmets here meet both, giving you an extra layer of certified safety.
Shell Material: ABS (budget plastic) vs. Polycarbonate (light) vs. Composite (premium)
The shell material defines the helmet’s weight and how it absorbs impact. Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) is a durable plastic that keeps costs down. Polycarbonate shells, like the one ScorpionEXO uses, are engineered to be lightweight and strong. Premium options use a composite mix (like Bell’s Tri-Matrix, which blends aramid, carbon fiber, and fiberglass) for high strength without the heavy weight — so your neck gets less fatigued on a long ride.
Style and Coverage: Open Face (wind on your face) vs. Full Face (max coverage for highways)
The classic cruiser look is the open-face 3/4 helmet, giving you wind in your face but leaving your chin unprotected. A full-face helmet provides maximum coverage, which is better for highway riding or if rain and debris are common. Some helmets offer a mix via a removable mouth guard, giving you both options.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Best For | Weight | Shell Material | Safety Cert | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bell Pit Boss★ Best Overall | Premium composite shell | 3 Pounds | Tri-Matrix Composite | DOT & ECE22.06 | Amazon |
| ScorpionEXO Covert 2Convertible Champ | Convertible 3/4 to full | — | Polycarbonate (PC) | DOT | Amazon |
| ILM Z502 (Full Face)Full Face Value | Full-face vintage style | 1300 Grams | ABS | DOT & ECE 22.06 | Amazon |
| ILM Z302 (Open Face) | Multi-configuration fit | 3.26 Pounds | ABS | DOT | Amazon |
| Daytona 3/4 Shell | Vintage style graphics | 1.66 Kilograms | Hard ABS | DOT | Amazon |
| LS2 Bagger | Lightweight half helmet | — | Fiberglass Composite | DOT | Amazon |
| Daytona Helmets Retro 3/4 | Lightweight open face | 2.05 Pounds | ABS | DOT | Amazon |
| Quickool 3/4 Helmet | Dual visor system | — | ABS | DOT | Amazon |
| Harssidanzar CU601 | Budget vintage buy | 1.06 Kilograms | ABS | DOT | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. Bell Pit Boss Helmet, Matte Black, Medium
Our pick — 4.5★ from 750+ verified ratings; the strongest balance of quality and price.
The full-coverage helmet that refuses to compromise on safety certifications.
The Bell Pit Boss earns its top spot by covering the hardest part of buying a cruiser helmet: balancing classic looks with serious protection. It uses a Tri-Matrix Composite Shell — a blend of aramid, carbon fiber, and fiberglass. That means you get the impact strength of fiberglass without paying the premium price of a pure carbon-fiber lid. The helmet meets both DOT (U.S. legal minimum) and ECE22.06 (tougher European standard) — so you get certified safety that goes beyond what the law requires.
At 3 Pounds, this is heavier than many open-face options, but that weight comes from the extra coverage and tough composite shell. Unlike the lighter 2.05-pound Daytona Retro 3/4, the Pit Boss offers full-face-like protection in a half-shell style. Buyers report that the matte finish holds up well and the hook-and-loop closure is simple to use, even with gloves on.
Certification value
- DOT and ECE22.06 certified (dual standard)
- Tri-Matrix Composite shell for high impact strength
- Matte Black finish stays looking clean
Weight trade-off
- 3 Pounds is heavier than many 3/4 open-face helmets
- Hook-and-loop closure, not a quick-release buckle
Reach for this if you want a premium material upgrade and dual safety certifications in a classic full-coverage shape.
Look elsewhere if you prefer the wind-in-your-face feel of a lighter 3/4 open-face helmet.
2. ScorpionEXO Covert 2 Open Face 3/4 Full Mode Motorcycle Helmet
The two-in-one helmet that switches from open face to full coverage in seconds.
The ScorpionEXO Covert 2 stands out because you get two helmets in one. Its removable front mouth and chin guard — held on by neodymium magnets — lets you swap between a 3/4 open-face look and a full-face mode. This flexibility means you can have the wind on your face for around-town cruising, then clip on the guard for highway protection.
The helmet is built around an advanced polycarbonate shell that ScorpionEXO says is designed to be lightweight and strong at the same time. It comes with a retractable EverClear SpeedView drop-down sun visor, plus a separate clear visor for night riding. The shell has built-in speaker pockets, so you can add a Bluetooth communication system without any cutting. Buyers also note that the KwikWick liner (a moisture-wicking fabric) keeps you dry in warm weather.
Built-in versatility: The removable magnetic mouth guard lets you switch between 3/4 and full-face modes, giving you two helmets for one purchase.
Choose this if you want the ability to go from open-face freedom to full-face protection without buying two separate helmets.
Keep in mind this is a premium-tier choice, so your budget needs to match the feature set.
3. ILM Vintage Full Face Motorcycle Helmet Model Z502
The full-face helmet that brings vintage style without cutting safety corners.
The ILM Z502 gives you a full face of protection with a retro shape that fits right on a cruiser. It uses a high-quality ABS outer shell (a durable plastic) and meets both DOT and ECE 22.06 safety standards, so it passes the more rigorous European impact tests. The inner dark smoke visor retracts, letting you adjust for sun without swapping shields.
At 1300 Grams, it sits right in the middle weight-wise — not the lightest, but not a neck strainer on longer trips. The design is eyeglasses-friendly (with space for temple arms), which is a rare and welcome feature for riders who wear specs. The quick-release metal buckle makes it easy to get on and off, and the suede liners are fully removable and washable. Riders report the matte finish looks premium and holds up well.
Safety and fit
- Certified to both DOT and ECE 22.06
- Eyeglasses-friendly design for spectacle wearers
- Retractable inner sun visor
Cruiser fit
- Full face means less wind-in-the-face feel compared to a 3/4
- 1300 Grams is not the lightest full-face on the market
Best for riders who want a full-face helmet with vintage looks and dual safety certification at a mid-range price.
skip it if the open-face cruiser aesthetic is essential to you.
4. ILM Open Face Motorcycle 3/4 Half Helmet Model Z302
An open face helmet that changes its look and airflow based on your ride.
The ILM Z302 is built for riders who like options. It has a detachable front cover and a detachable brim, giving you four different configurations to switch between. The brim has two adjustable angles and even includes a camera mount, which is a neat touch if you record your rides. If you want more airflow than a fixed 3/4, this helmet gives you the flexibility.
At 3.26 Pounds, it is heavier than some other 3/4 helmets, but that weight comes with nine vents for airflow. The aerodynamic air intake system is designed to keep you cool on long, warm rides. The tinted outer lens blocks sun and road debris and is easy to remove. Buyers point out that the hook-and-loop closure is secure but can be fiddly compared to a quick-release buckle.
Airflow focus: Nine vents and an aerodynamic intake make this a strong choice for hot-weather riders who want maximum cooling.
Grab this if you want a customizable open-face helmet that prioritizes ventilation and lets you mount a camera.
Think twice if you prefer a simpler, lighter, no-fuss 3/4 helmet.
5. Daytona Helmets 3/4 Shell Open Face Motorcycle Helmet
A lightweight 3/4 shell that wears its cruiser graphics on the sleeve.
The Daytona 3/4 Shell Open Face Helmet is meant for riders who want their helmet to match the vibe of their bike. It comes in a Hi-Gloss Green color with a 2ND AMENDMENT SEAL graphic, so you get a look that stands out. The ABS hard shell is DOT approved, giving you basic safety certification in a lightweight package.
Weight-wise, at 1.66 Kilograms, it is heavier than the 1.06 Kg Harssidanzar CU601 but lighter than the 3-pound Bell Pit Boss. The design prioritizes airflow and comfort for cruiser and scooter riders, with an adjustable fit system to dial in the feel. A drawstring bag and headwrap are included. Some buyers mention the EPS liner provides good impact absorption for the price.
Visual appeal
- Unique Hi-Gloss Green graphic stands out
- Lightweight design good for short trips
- Includes helmet bag and headwrap
Coverage limit
- No integrated sun visor
- DOT certified but not ECE
Right for you if you care about matching your helmet graphic to your cruiser’s style and prefer a lightweight 3/4 shell.
Not ideal if you need a retractable sun visor or dual safety certification.
6. LS2 Helmets Bagger Motorcycle Half Helmet
A half helmet that keeps weight low by using fiberglass composite instead of plastic.
The LS2 Bagger is a lightweight half helmet built from a fiberglass composite shell — a step up in material quality from the ABS shells found on lower-priced options. The shell uses a high-performance fiberglass composite that keeps the helmet light on your head, which matters on all-day rides. The DOT-approved quick-release chin strap buckle makes fastening simple.
A YKK zipper on the removable neck roll helps with cleaning or adjusting for weather. The forehead has a real adjustable vent, and the liner is removable and washable. Compared to the heavier Bell Pit Boss at 3 Pounds, the Bagger’s fiberglass construction makes it feel noticeably lighter. One rider noted the adjustable venting is excellent for hot days.
Material upgrade: The fiberglass composite shell is a genuine step up in strength-to-weight ratio compared to standard ABS helmets.
Pick this if you want a half helmet with a premium fiberglass shell that feels light on your head all day.
Avoid if you need a full-coverage or 3/4 design.
7. Daytona Helmets Retro 3/4 Open Face Motorcycle Helmet
A retro 3/4 helmet that keeps weight low and style high for daily cruises.
At just 2.05 Pounds, this Daytona Retro is the lightest open-face option here, beating the 3-pound Bell Pit Boss by nearly a pound. The lightweight construction comes from a durable ABS shell with a multi-density EPS liner (expanded polystyrene foam for impact protection). The DOT-approved shell meets FMVSS-218 standards, so you get certified safety.
The retro shape fits cruisers, scooters, and choppers, and a detachable visor holder lets you swap snap-on visors or goggles. This 3/4 helmet is also compatible with Bluetooth headsets, so you can stay connected. Buyers appreciate the adjustable chin strap with a quick-release buckle and the included helmet bag and headwrap. One reviewer noted the fit runs true to size.
Everyday ease
- 2.05 Pounds is very light for all-day comfort
- Bluetooth compatible for intercom/gps
- Comes with bag, headwrap, and bubble visor
Basic safety
- DOT only (not ECE certified)
- ABS shell, not fiberglass/composite
Best for riders who want an affordable, lightweight 3/4 retro helmet that works with Bluetooth.
Not for those who need the extra safety certification of ECE 22.06.
8. Quickool 3/4 Motorcycle Helmet
An entry-level 3/4 helmet with two visors built in for day or night riding.
The Quickool 3/4 Helmet gets you a dual sun visor system at a budget-friendly price. It includes an anti-scratch outer visor plus an integrated sunshield visor that you can switch with one hand. This makes it easy to handle changing light conditions without needing to swap shields or carry extras.
The shell is made from high-quality ABS (durable plastic) with EPS liners, and it meets DOT FMVSS-218 safety standards. The interior padding is removable and washable, with moisture-wicking fabric to keep you comfortable. Sizes run from S to L, and the adjustable chin strap has a secure buckle. One buyer mentioned the visor switch is tool-free, which adds to the convenience.
Visor convenience: The built-in sun visor and anti-scratch outer shield mean you are covered for both daytime glare and nighttime clarity right away.
Go for this if you want a functional 3/4 helmet with dual visors at a low entry price.
Pass if you need a premium shell material or a wider size range.
9. Harssidanzar Retro Motorcycle Helmet 3/4 Open Face Helmet CU601
A wallet-friendly retro 3/4 helmet that focuses on the classic look.
The Harssidanzar CU601 is designed for buyers who want a vintage open-face look without spending much. It weighs only 1.06 Kilograms, making it the lightest helmet in this lineup — 57% lighter than the 1.66 Kg Daytona 3/4 Shell. The shell uses hard ABS material (a durable plastic) with an EPS cushion layer for impact absorption.
It comes DOT FMVSS-218 certified, covering the basic safety requirement. The helmet includes a removable sun shield visor that offers UV protection, and the suede lining is light and soft against the skin. Sizes range from S to XXL (53-64cm), and a quick-release buckle makes it easy to take off. Owners mention the fit is true to the size chart.
Cost and weight
- 1.06 Kg is exceptionally light
- Very affordable for the retro style
- Wide size range (53-64cm)
Basic features
- ABS shell, not a composite material
- DOT certified only (no ECE)
Choose this if your top priorities are a classic vintage look, the lowest possible weight, and the tightest budget.
Avoid if you want a strong composite shell or dual safety certifications.
Understanding the Specs
DOT (U.S. legal minimum) vs. ECE22.06 (tougher European standard)
DOT (Department of Transportation) is the legal safety standard in the US. ECE22.06 is a European standard that includes more rigorous testing, such as impacts at different angles and a wider range of speeds. A helmet that meets both gives you an extra layer of independent safety verification. When you see a helmet with only DOT, it meets the US legal minimum. If you see both, you know it has passed a tougher set of international tests.
Shell Material: ABS (budget plastic) vs. Composite (lighter and stronger)
ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is a hard, impact-resistant plastic that keeps costs down. It is durable and does the job, but it is heavier than premium materials. A fiberglass or composite shell (like Bell’s Tri-Matrix, which blends aramid, carbon fiber, and fiberglass) is lighter and can be stronger for the same weight. This becomes important on long rides, where a heavier helmet leads to neck fatigue. Polycarbonate (PC) sits in the middle — lighter than ABS but usually at a higher price point.
FAQ
What is the difference between a 3/4 open face and a half helmet for a cruiser?
Does a cruiser helmet need to be ECE certified?
How do I know my helmet size for a cruiser helmet?
Are fiberglass cruiser helmets better than ABS?
Can I wear glasses with a 3/4 cruiser helmet?
Is a full-face helmet worth it for a cruiser?
How much should a quality cruiser helmet cost?
Can I use a Bluetooth headset with a cruiser helmet?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most riders, the cruiser motorcycle helmets winner is the Bell Pit Boss because it gives you a premium Tri-Matrix Composite shell and both DOT and ECE22.06 certifications at a price that is not insane. If you want the flexibility to go from open face to full face in seconds, grab the ScorpionEXO Covert 2. And for the lightest possible 3/4 retro option on a budget, the standout is the Harssidanzar CU601.
How We Picked
We do not accept paid placement. Every pick is matched to a real buyer and a real use-case; we do not hands-on test units.
Sources & Methodology
Specifications: manufacturer listings and product documentation. Review insights: verified customer reviews, as of July 2026. Pricing: not shown on this page (it changes often); check the current price via the retailer link.
As an Amazon Associate, Trending Car earns from qualifying purchases. This does not affect which products we feature.