SHARK S900 C Dual black

Motorcycle helmets can be made from different materials; each material has its advantages and disadvantages in terms of weight, price, durability and comfort.

• Polycarbonate suits novice motorcycle riders, occasional use, scooters or limited budgets. It offers correct protection for daily use but expect no top comfort or maximum lifespan.
• Fibreglass is a good middle ground: better protection and durability than polycarbonate without carbon fibre’s high price. A strong recommendation for regular riders wanting quality without top price.
• Carbon fibre is ideal for maximum comfort, minimal neck strain and light weight – especially on long distances or sporty rides. Premium price but often top class in protection and comfort.

All the above materials degrade gradually under UV radiation, temperature fluctuations, weather and perspiration when the helmet is in use. The average helmet lifespan is therefore set at 5 years.

Motorcycle helmets come in a wide variety of colours and designs, from simple solid colours to complex patterns and graphics. For every rider there is a style that matches personal preferences and taste.

Many modern motorcycle helmets have an internal sun visor. You slide it down or up easily so riders can respond quickly to changing light conditions. It adds comfort and protection against sun glare without needing separate sunglasses. Note that an internal sun visor adds weight, which some riders see as a drawback.

A Pinlock is a special anti-fog lens that prevents your helmet visor from fogging; options vary by performance to suit riding needs:

• Pinlock 30: basic type for city rides or occasional use; basic anti-fog for mild conditions.
• Pinlock 70: all-round lens for daily use and varying weather conditions; reliable anti-fog with good visibility in rain or during cold weather.
• Pinlock 120XLT: premium lens with extra high anti-fog and better light transmission; ideal for long rides and changing weather conditions.
• Pinlock EVO: standard lens used by helmet brand Shoei, equivalent to Pinlock 120XLT with regard to anti-fog performance and quality.
• Pinlock 200: innovative lens available from 2026; maximum anti-fog performance, even in demanding weather conditions.

The MaxVision™ principle means the Pinlock lens is larger and covers the entire visor better for wider fog-free field of view.

A removable and washable inner lining makes it easy to keep the helmet clean. Regular washing maintains hygiene and freshness, ensuring the helmet stays comfortable during extended use.

The closure of a motorcycle helmet determines how the helmet stays on your head. Below are the two most common closure systems, with their pros and cons:

• Double D closure: classic system with two metal D-rings. The chin strap threads through both rings and tightens by feeding back through one. Extremely reliable, resists high pull force and is the only permitted closure for competition or track helmets.
• Quick release / micrometric closure: ratchet or buckle mechanism for fast, easy fastening even with gloves. Convenient for daily riding or frequent stops. However, in some (heavy) impact scenarios it offers slightly less security than double D and is therefore not permitted in many competitions.

All motorcycle helmets come with a protective cover. This cover is used when the helmet is not being worn and helps prevent dust and minor damage, for example when storing the helmet in a case on the motorcycle. The quality of the protective cover is often linked to the helmet's price: budget helmets usually include a basic cover, while high-end helmets often come with a premium-quality cover.

In some countries, such as France, it is mandatory to have a certain amount of reflective material on your motorcycle helmet. Some brands include these stickers as standard when you buy the helmet, while with other brands they must be purchased separately.

The weight of a helmet affects riding comfort, especially on longer trips or at high speeds. Lighter helmets provide higher comfort. The stated weight is an approximation and may vary by size (larger helmets are typically slightly heavier). Furthermore, optional accessories like a Pinlock lens are not included in this weight.