When it comes to adventure helmets, they're designed to bridge the gap between road and off-road capabilities since you need something that can handle both. Rather than being specialized for one or the other, adventure helmets make some compromises to become decent all-rounders for mixed adventures.

In this article or the video above, we’ll be looking at three popular adventure motorcycle helmets available on XLMOTO, all coming in at under 400 euros. These provide a range of options and features depending on your budget and priorities. As we go through each helmet, you’ll get a sense of what you can expect for your money in terms of comfort, versatility, weight and other key factors when choosing your next adventure motorcycle helmet.

Acerbis Flip FS-606 2

The Acerbis Flip FS-606 2 is a good basic adventure helmet option. It features a scratch-resistant and removable outer visor, providing flexibility to switch it out as needed. An integrated sun visor allows you to quickly adapt to changing light conditions without needing to swap components. The helmet also utilizes a quick release fastener for easy on and off while wearing bulky adventure gloves.

On the downside, Pinlock is not included as a stock feature. And at 1600 grams, the Acerbis sits on the heavier side for adventure helmets. The additional weight comes in exchange for an accessible entry price point.

So for riders looking to get started with adventure riding on a budget, the Flip FS-606 2 delivers core features without a premium cost. While the weight and lack of Pinlock may be limiting for hardcore adventuring, this helmet presents a solid foundational option.

The O'Neal Sierra II helmet:

The O'Neal Sierra II steps things up from the Acerbis with a few extra beneficial features that help justify its slightly higher price tag. Right away, I noticed the Pinlock visor which comes included as a standard feature on this helmet. This is going to be a nice boost against fogging up your field of vision during cold or wet rides. The Sierra II also sports a removable peak, air vents across the entire helmet including non-closable vents up top, and ample space to swap out the visor for goggles if desired. Like the Acerbis, you'll find a quick release fastener for getting the helmet on and off easily with thick adventure gloves. Inside, there is more generous padding lining the helmet for increased comfort on those long days of adventure touring. An integrated sun visor makes tackling changing light conditions a breeze as well. At 1590g, the Sierra II does weigh in a bit heavier than the featherlight Airoh Commander but lighter than the Acerbis.

When comparing the features you get for the price, the O'Neal Sierra II represents a fantastic value for riders seeking more capability from their adventure helmet without breaking the bank. The ample airflow may make it better suited for warmer weather riding than the Acerbis.

Editors Note: The O'Neal Sierra II helmet mentioned in the video is not available on our site anymore. Instead, the O'Neal Sierra R offers the same features as well as some additional extras – while still priced below 400 euro

The Airoh Commander

It really stands out as the most advanced helmet under 400 euros. Right away when picking it up, I could feel the weight reduction. The Commander weighs just 1430 grams, making it the lightest of the three helmets. It has all the functionality of the others like an interchangeable Pinlock visor, integrated sun shield, comfortable and removable interior padding, and a quick release fastener. But the Commander adds some cool extra features to justify its slightly higher price tag.

The helmet comes intercom-ready with designated space to integrate the wiring on the side. It also includes an additional wind block that installs under the chin to reduce wind noise. I especially like the included plastic visor guard clips. They provide protection for the visor mechanisms when you remove the main shield, keeping everything safe. And my favorite feature is the action camera mount. Just pop off the cover on top of the helmet and install the base mount, then attach your camera. No need for extra mounts or adhesive pads sticking all over.

The Airoh Commander really does deliver advanced features for adventurous riders, all while staying under 400 euros.

Conclusion

To conclude, let's summarize some of the key specifications and features of the adventure motorcycle helmets we covered.

• The Acerbis Flip FS-606 2 features a scratch resistant removable visor, integrated sun visor, quick release fastener, no Pinlock and weighs in at 1600 grams.

• The O'Neal Sierra II has a polycarbonate ABS construction, multiple air vents, padded and removable sweat absorbing interior, Pinlock 30 anti-fog lens, clear and sun visor, weighing about 1 590 grams.

• The Airoh Commander boasts a composite shell, Pinlock visor, washable interior, action camera mount, intercom readiness and the lightest weight at 1430 grams.

I hope you enjoyed this overview and I look forward to seeing you again soon for more motorcycle content here. Ride safe!

Author info:

My name is Vanessa Ruck, and you may have seen me in one of the many YouTube video's produced for XLMOTO & 24MX. I am a TEDx & award-winning motivational speaker, motorcycle racer and adventurer, rally driver, content creator and presenter.