All motorcycle helmets are not created equal. The safety standards rating system introduced by the Snell Memorial Foundation is renowned for being one of the world’s most stringent—and the helmets that meet its criteria are markedly different from the ones that don’t.
The SNELL system was developed as a more rigorous testing process for motorsports where the chances of high impact collisions are greater. Unlike DOT, SNELL is a nonprofit organization and acquiring a SNELL certification is optional. This means any helmet with a SNELL rating has been voluntarily submitted to undergo more rigorous testing in order to provide riders with the best protection possible.
During SNELL testing, helmets are impacted by 5 different shaped anvils (as opposed to the two used during DOT tests). SNELL also performs drop tests from a greater height than DOT and tests the chin bar and visor strength for 360 degrees of approved protection. So if you’re planning on buying a new helmet to suit your cafe racer and want the best protection, a SNELL-certified lid is a big step in the right direction.
Check out the two latest SNELL standards: the SNELL M2015 standard, and SNELL M2020 standard. If you want to see SNELL in action, check out this article from my colleague Jim Pruner at webBikeWorld: See Inside a Helmet Torture Chamber: wBW Goes to SNELL.
Meanwhile, to help you on your helmet purchasing journey, here are 7 SNELL-rated cafe racer helmets we’d recommend checking out. Keep your head safe while riding, and thank us later!
SNELL Helmet #1: Arai Contour-X Helmet
Arai are a huge advocate of SNELL—and as such, many helmets in their range wear SNELL certification. There are many head shapes and styles to choose from, however Arai have recently released a helmet that is appropriate for all riding types: The Contour-X
Available in a range of finishes and graphics, the Arai Contour-X is designed for intermediate oval heads, and continues the classic Arai “egg” shell shape. Of course, like pretty all of their helmets, the Contour-X passes the SNELL M2020 certification tests with flying colors.
The shell is built using a relatively new technique, known as the peripherally belted complex laminate construction (PB e-cLc) method, providing it with superior resilience and tensile strength, while also keeping some elasticity to absorb impact energy. As part of that shell, there are also a literal baker’s dozen of ventilation options, with 7 intake ports and 6 exhaust ports. It uses Arai’s Free Flow system, which also combats wind noise while providing superior ventilation.
The liner is anti-microbial, hypoallergenic, and fully removable for cleaning or airing out. It is adjustable at the temples so you can customize your fit, as well as optional thicker or thinner liners are available from Arai to dial in the fit if it’s just too loose or too tight. It is not a cheap helmet, not by a long shot, but Arai has consistently had their helmets rated as the safest you can buy, and the Contour-X is no different.
SNELL Helmet #2: Bell Race Star Flex DLX
The Bell Race Star Flex DLX is not what you would typically consider a cafe racer-style helmet, but let us explain our reasoning for this. The first, and most important, fact is that the helmet has been specifically designed to work best when in a forward lean or even a full sport tuck.
Secondly, it includes a Bell ProTint Photochromatic visor as standard, meaning that no matter the light level, the visor will automatically tint or clear up. Dark and tinted in the sunlight, clear as you’d like at night. It also sports a very tall and wide visor port, for the precise reason as listed above of being designed for use leaning forward or tucked down over your fuel tank.
Third, it is extremely light at 3.57 lbs because of it’s full 3K carbon fiber shell, the same type used in MotoGP racing helmets. It is elastic enough to absorb some impact, but also tensile enough to keep your head safe without cracking or shattering.
There are a ton of other major features, but the most important of those is that the EPS foam in the helmet is where it gains the “Flex” name. A new, triple layer, multi-density type of foam is what earns this helmet a full M2020D rating, meaning it is approved for non-international motorcycle racing. It also features the standard removable lining for cleaning and airing out, but they use magnets instead of clips to secure into the helmet via Bell’s Magnefusion system.
SNELL Helmet #3: LS2 Street Fighter Helmet
At a touch under $150, it’s hard to believe that the LS2 Street Fighter helmet is SNELL certified. Rest assured though, this is no mistake. This tough-looking helmet was created with aggressive riders in mind but will look right at home on a performance-focused cafe racer or modern classic.
Recently, LS2 drastically improved the Street Fighter by decreasing its weight by a whopping 20%. This helmet also features a multi-density EPS liner, adjustable ventilation, and an advanced polymer alloy composite shell.
If your budget is tight but you don’t want to scrimp on safety, the LS2 Street Fighter helmet has you (and your head) covered.
SNELL Helmet #4: Arai Classic V Helmet
Yes, retro open face helmets can achieve a SNELL rating too. Of course, it took the skilled engineers at Arai Helmets to make it happen.
The Arai Classic V Helmet features their Peripherally Belted Complex Laminate (PBcLc) shell to ensure optimum protection. Beneath the shell, you’ll find a one piece, multi-density EPS core that’s covered in an antimicrobial liner with faux leather accents on the outer facing edges.
Ventilation in an open face helmet may sound pointless, but Arai didn’t think so. Keeping the inside of the Classic V cool are a series of discrete vents that channel air over the head and out via exhaust holes at the rear of the helmet.
Along with a great range of retro colour schemes, the Arai Classic V Helmet features snap button clasps which can be used to fit a range of different Arai visors.
SNELL Helmet #5: Simpson Outlaw Bandit Helmet
If you want to look like a badass on your cafe racer, the Simpson Outlaw Bandit helmet is just the ticket. Simpson Performance Products have been around since the late fifties, specializing in products for the race track. These American made helmets became hugely popular after Top Gear’s Stig wore one during his high speed antics (and as a result are homologated for use in most countries).
The Simpson Outlaw Bandit is one of the company’s motorcyclist-specific styles. Designed with high speed riding in mind, it features an aerodynamically-optimized design that reduces wind turbulence and helmet lift.
A wide field of view lets you keep a close eye on what’s going on around you and you can choose from an expansive selection of visor tints to complete your new look.
- MSRP: $514.95 and up
- Available from: Revzilla, Amazon
- webBikeWorld review: Simpson Outlaw Bandit helmet
SNELL Helmet #6: Shoei RF-1400 Helmet
Many people believe that the Shoei RF-1400, their most recent flagship model, is the greatest helmet available for riding on city streets. After endless hours in the wind tunnel, the RF-1400’s drag and lift were reduced by 4% and 6%, respectively, over the older RF-1200.
For the new RF-1400, Shoei totally reengineered the shield mechanism. It is a well-executed upgrade over the RF-1200. It is SNELL 2020 approved, incredibly quiet, has excellent ventilation, and this lid feels premium in every way. Shoei offers the RF-1400 in a wide array of solid color and graphic options, and there is certainly a scheme to match your cafe build.
- MSRP: $679.99 and up
- Available from: Revzilla, Amazon
- webBikeWorld review: Shoei RF-1400 Review
SNELL Helmet #7: Scorpion EXO R420 Helmet
It’s one thing to claim a helmet is race-inspired, but to back it up with a race-ready safety certification shows you mean business. The Scorpion EXO R420 helmet does exactly that.
Featuring a sleek, clutter-free design, this modern helmet will look right at home on motorcycles of most styles—from cafe racers to sports tourers. Keeping your melon safe is Scorpion’s LG polycarbonate shell design, which is both DOT and SNELL approved.
The EXO R420’s quick release visor is optically clear, 100% UV protective, and scratch-proof, so you’ll have no issue taking in your surroundings. A washable, antimicrobial liner will help you keep the helmet smelling sweet while a specially-designed ventilation system helps to prevent sweat build up.
Emergency release tabs on the liner offer additional peace of mind, while internal speaker pockets allow you to stay connected on the go.
- MSRP: $159.95 and up
- Available from: Revzilla, Amazon
- webBikeWorld review: Scorpion EXO R420 helmet
