7 Best Dirt Bike Helmets Under 200: Top Picks for 2024


Best Dirt Bike Helmets Under 200

Are you searching for the best dirt bike helmets under 200?

As a dirt bike rider, I know how important it is to invest in a high-quality helmet that offers good protection. I still remember the day I took a nasty spill on the trails, and my trusty helmet saved me from potentially major injuries.

Since then, I’ve made it my mission to find the best dirt bike helmets that deliver exceptional safety features and comfort while still being reasonably affordable.

In this blog post, I’ll be focusing on the top 7 dirt bike helmets under $200 for 2024, highlighting their key features as well as their pros and cons.

Plus, I’ll also cover what factors to consider when choosing a helmet, what the best brands are, and answer some frequently asked questions about dirt bike helmets.

Best Dirt Bike Helmets Under 200

Below are my top picks for the best dirt bike helmets under $200, ranked from least to most expensive, to help you find the perfect balance of protection, comfort, and price.

1. Fox Racing V1 Core Motocross Helmet: Affordable Safety & Comfort

  • Average Cost: $100
  • MIPS (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System)
  • Magnetic Visor Release System (MVRS)
  • Lightweight injection-molded polycarbonate & ABS shell construction
  • 11 intake and 4 exhaust vents
  • Removable and washable comfort liner and cheek pads
  • Meets DOT, ECE 22.05, and FMVSS 218 safety standards

Pros:

  • Great value, offers high-end safety features at an affordable price
  • MIPS technology and MVRS provide enhanced protection during crashes
  • Lightweight construction ensures comfort during long rides
  • Exceptional ventilation keeps riders cool and manages moisture effectively
  • Removable and washable liner and cheek pads improve hygiene and prolong helmet life
  • Complies with multiple safety standards, giving riders peace of mind

Cons:

  • Sizing runs small and sometimes requires buyers to purchase a size or two larger than normal
  • The visor can pop off too easily due to the push-in design
  • Limited color and graphic options compared to higher-end models

2. ILM Open Face Off-Road 3/4 Half Helmet: Versatile & Affordable DOT-Approved

  • Average Cost: $110
  • Meets or exceeds FMVSS-218 and DOT safety standards
  • Detachable lens, sun shield, and chin guard for customizable functionality
  • Multiple vents and a breathable design
  • Quick-release buckle
  • Adjustable sun shield and drop-down tinted visor
  • Removable and washable liner
  • One-touch control air vents release heat

Pros:

  • Affordable price point without compromising on safety standards
  • Versatile design suitable for multiple riding styles
  • Customizable features like a detachable lens, sun shield, and chin guard
  • Excellent ventilation system keeps riders cool and comfortable
  • Quick-release buckle and strap for easy wearing and adjustment
  • Removable and washable liner for easy maintenance
  • Accommodates both men and women riders

Cons:

  • Designed to be snug for noise reduction, which may require buying a larger size for a looser fit
  • Lacks a full-face design for increased protection
  • Limited color options compared to other brands

3. O’Neal 2 SRS SPYDE Helmet: Lightweight, Safe, & Feature-Packed

  • Average Cost: $120
  • Constructed with a lightweight ABS shell
  • Ultra-plush, removable, and washable padded liner
  • Multiple air vents
  • Rubber roost nose guard
  • Height-adjustable visor
  • Double-D release chin strap
  • Meets DOT FMVSS 218 and ECE 22.05 safety standards

Pros:

  • Meets strict DOT and ECE safety standards
  • Lightweight ABS shell construction reduces neck fatigue during long rides
  • Plush, removable, and washable liner ensures comfort and easy maintenance
  • An effective ventilation system keeps riders cool and comfortable
  • Adjustable visor and nose guard provide customizable protection
  • The Double-D chin strap offers a secure and reliable fit
  • Offers eye-catching graphics with a clear coat for durability

Cons:

  • Limited information on sizing and fit, which can make it challenging to find the right size
  • Lacks specific noise reduction features

4. O’Neal Sierra Helmet: Versatile, Comfortable, & Safe for On/Off-Road Riding

  • Average Cost: $150
  • Lightweight Polycarbonate/ABS shell construction
  • Ultra-plush, moisture-wicking, removable, and washable air-channeled comfort liner
  • Integrated face shield with UV protection
  • Height-adjustable helmet shield
  • Multiple vents and internal ventilation channels
  • Meets DOT FMVSS 218, ECE 22.05, and AS/NZS safety standards

Pros:

  • Versatile design great for both on and off-road riding
  • Lightweight construction reduces neck strain and fatigue during long rides
  • Plush, moisture-wicking, and removable liner ensures comfort and easy maintenance
  • Integrated face shield and sun visor provide clear vision and UV protection
  • Adjustable helmet shield allows for a personalized fit and protection level
  • Effective ventilation system
  • Meets multiple safety standards

Cons:

  • Lacks a modular helmet design
  • The weight is slightly higher compared to some high-end, premium helmets
  • Lacks specific noise reduction features

5. Bell MX-9 MIPS Torch Off-Road Dirt Bike Helmet: Pro-Level Protection & Comfort

  • Average Cost: $180
  • Lightweight polycarbonate/ABS shell construction
  • MIPS (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System)
  • Fully adjustable Flying Bridge Visor
  • Velocity Flow Ventilation system
  • Removable and washable liner
  • DOT certified with an industry-leading five-year warranty
  • Meets the FMVSS 218 Standard

Pros:

  • MIPS technology provides added protection against rotational forces in case of a crash
  • Adjustable visor with air intake vents allows for personalized fit and improved airflow
  • Velocity Flow Ventilation system keeps you cool and comfortable in various riding conditions
  • A removable and washable liner enables easy cleaning and maintenance
  • DOT certification and a five-year warranty offer assurance of quality and protection
  • Lightweight construction reduces neck strain and fatigue during long rides
  • Offers wide range of colors and graphics

Cons:

  • Lacks a face shield
  • The helmet fits tighter than other brands, particularly in the face area
  • Might need to purchase smaller cheek pads separately for improved comfort
  • Goggles are not included with the helmet and must be purchased separately

6. LS2 Helmets Subverter Off-Road Helmet: Lightweight, Ventilated, & Feature-Packed

  • Average Cost: $180
  • Kinetic Polymer Alloy (KPA) shell construction
  • Removable and washable liner
  • Wide eye port accommodates most goggle brands
  • Proprietary nanotechnology blends aramid fibers into a high-end polymer for state-of-the-art energy management
  • Special MIPS (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System)
  • 35 separate ventilation ports with channeled EPS for maximum airflow and cooling

Pros:

  • KPA shell construction offers a perfect balance of lightweight, flexibility, and strength
  • Three shell sizes ensure a precise, comfortable fit while minimizing weight
  • Offers a removable and washable liner making maintenance easy
  • Wide eye port provides excellent visibility and compatibility with most goggle brands
  • Advanced MIPS system enhances protection against rotational forces in crashes
  • An extensive ventilation system with 35 ports keeps riders cool even in demanding conditions
  • Thermo-welded padding improves breathability and comfort

Cons:

  • Most agree that the helmet runs small, requiring them to size up for a proper fit
  • Lacks a face shield
  • Goggles are not included with the helmet and must be purchased separately

7. Fly Racing Trekker Helmet: Versatile, Lightweight, & Feature-Rich

  • Average Cost: $200
  • ECE and DOT approved
  • Lightweight and durable polymer shell construction
  • Large, clear face shield with anti-fog and scratch-resistant coating
  • Removable and washable liner
  • Dual-density EPS liner with two layers for progressive impact absorption
  • Shield lock and easy, tool-less shield changes
  • True Functional Ventilation (TFV)
  • Comes with a helmet bag

Pros:

  • Versatile design suitable for off-road, street, and snow riding
  • ECE and DOT certification ensure the helmet meets strict safety standards
  • Lightweight and durable polymer shell construction provides comfort and protection
  • TFV system keeps riders cool and comfortable on long rides
  • Multiple shield options and a drop-down inner sun shield accommodate varying conditions
  • Goggle-friendly design for off-road versatility

Cons:

  • Some riders say the helmet runs small, requiring them to size up for a proper fit
  • The face shield does not close fully airtight, allowing some air to enter around the shield
  • Switching visors can be a bit challenging, although it can be done without tools

What to Look for in a Dirt Bike Helmet Under $200

Choosing a Dirt Bike Helmet

When shopping for dirt bike helmets under 200 there are many considerations you could use, however, in my opinion, the ones I’ve listed below are the most important.

Key factors to consider when choosing an off-road helmet:

  • Safety Certifications – Ensure the helmet meets or exceeds safety standards like DOT, ECE 22.05, or Snell. These certifications guarantee that the helmet has undergone rigorous testing and provides adequate protection.
  • Shell Construction – Look for helmets with a durable outer shell made from materials like polycarbonate, fiberglass, or ABS. A high-quality shell will disperse energy upon impact and protect your head.
  • Comfortable Fit – Choose a helmet that feels snug and comfortable on your head. Avoid helmets that are too tight or too loose. Consider factors like weight, padding, and the shape of your head when selecting a helmet.
  • Ventilation – Adequate ventilation is essential to keep you cool and comfortable while riding. Look for helmets with multiple air vents, intake ports, and exhaust channels to promote airflow and reduce moisture and heat buildup.
  • Weight – A lightweight helmet reduces neck strain and fatigue during long rides. Modern materials like fiberglass and carbon fiber help keep helmet weight down without compromising safety.
  • Visor and Eye Protection – A sturdy, adjustable visor helps shield your eyes from the sun, dirt, and debris. Ensure the helmet is compatible with your preferred goggles for optimal eye protection.
  • Brand Reputation – Stick with reputable helmet brands known for producing high-quality, safe products. Well-established manufacturers often have better customer support and parts availability.

Remember, while it’s tempting to save money on a helmet, your safety should always come first. Because of this, I wouldn’t recommend purchasing a dirt bike helmet under $100, as the quality and protection are generally not there on really cheap dirt bike helmets.

Investing in a well-constructed, comfortable, and properly certified helmet is crucial for protecting your most valuable asset – your head.

Best Value Dirt Bike Helmet Brands

When shopping for a dirt bike helmet, it’s important to choose a reputable brand that offers a balance of safety, comfort, and style.

Below are some of the best dirt bike helmet brands that offer a great combination of all three:

  • Bell – Known for their comfortable, protective, and well-ventilated helmets, Bell is a solid choice for riders seeking a reliable helmet.
  • Fly Racing – Fly Racing helmets are renowned for their exceptional comfort, with plush padding and a snug fit. While their graphics may not be for everyone, their focus on rider comfort is unmatched.
  • Fox – Fox helmets are arguably the most stylish in the market, with eye-catching graphics and sleek designs. They also offer excellent ventilation and durable construction, making them a popular choice.
  • ILM – ILM offers a range of affordable dirt bike helmets with features like removable visors, adjustable sun shields, and multiple vents for enhanced airflow. Their helmets cater to various riding styles and provide good value for money.
  • LS2 – LS2 helmets are known for their lightweight construction, advanced safety features, and impressive ventilation. They offer a variety of styles and graphics, making them a popular choice among dirt bike riders looking for a balance of performance and affordability.
  • O’Neal – O’Neal helmets excel in the styling department, offering some of the coolest graphics available. However, some models may have less ventilation compared to other brands, so be sure to check reviews and specifications before purchasing.

When choosing between these brands, remember to prioritize safety certifications, a comfortable fit, adequate ventilation, and durable shell construction.

While each brand has its strengths, the best helmet for you will depend on your individual needs, preferences, and riding style.

Have More Dirt Bike Helmet Questions? We’ve Got More Answers…

You should replace your dirt bike helmet every 5 years, or sooner if it sustains impact in a crash or shows signs of wear and tear like cracks, dents, or compromised padding.

Motocross helmets while not specifically designed for trail riding are still great for the trails, as they offer excellent protection, ventilation, and compatibility with goggles.

While more expensive helmets often feature advanced materials and technologies like Bluetooth, a helmet’s safety primarily depends on meeting proper safety standards and certifications. Many affordable helmets offer excellent protection and meet the same safety standards as high-end models.

Remove and wash the inner liner regularly with mild soap and allow it to air dry. Do the same thing for the outside of the helmet, avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents. Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight, and replace damaged parts promptly.

DOT is the minimum safety standard for the US, while ECE and Snell are more stringent certifications. ECE is the European standard, and Snell is a voluntary, independent standard that exceeds DOT requirements. All three certify a helmet’s safety, but ECE and Snell have more rigorous testing protocols.

A 20-year-old helmet is not safe to use. Protective materials deteriorate over time, even without visible damage. Manufacturers recommend replacing helmets every 5 years. Newer helmets also offer improved protection, materials, and features that older helmets lack.

Additional Dirt Bike Resources:

Jason Kidd

Jason is both a writer and editor for Powersports Owner HQ and has been enjoying dirtbikes and ATVs for over 20 years.

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