Looking for a quality motorcycle helmet without breaking the bank? You’re not alone. Motorcycle helmets are a crucial safety investment, but navigating the options at a budget-friendly price point can be tricky. This article is here to help.
We understand the importance of balancing safety and affordability. That’s why we’ve conducted in-depth research to identify a helmet that offers both, exceeding what other budget options on the market can deliver.
Finding the Best Budget Motorcycle Helmet: Challenges
Skimping on a helmet is simply not an option. A motorcycle helmet is your first line of defense in a crash, and a well-made helmet can mean the difference between walking away and serious injury.
However, comparing features and quality within a limited budget can be a challenge. Many budget helmets sacrifice safety features or comfort for a lower price tag. Our goal is to help you find a helmet that prioritizes both without going over budget.
Stay tuned as we explore a helmet that defies expectations, offering excellent value for riders seeking a feature-rich, comfortable, and safe helmet around $250.
Key Takeaways
- Scorpion EXO Covert FX offers excellent value under $260, prioritizing safety, comfort, and features.
- DOT and ECE certified for meeting safety standards (depending on your region).
- Comfortable, removable, and washable liner for long rides.
- Anti-scratch, anti-fog visor for optimal clarity.
- Speaker pockets for easy communication system integration.
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Comparison Table Title: Top-Rated Budget Full-Face Motorcycle Helmets
| Helmet Name | Price (USD) | Safety Certifications | Liner | Visor Features | Additional Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scorpion EXO Covert FX | ~$260 | DOT, ECE (depending on region) | Removable, washable, moisture-wicking | Anti-scratch, Anti-fog, Easy removal | Speaker pockets |
| Bell Qualifier DLX MIPS | ~$280 | DOT, ECE | Removable, washable, anti-bacterial | Anti-scratch, Anti-fog, Double shield system | Pinlock-ready visor system, MIPS Brain Protection System |
| HJC i10 | ~$200 | DOT, ECE | Removable, washable | Anti-scratch, Anti-fog | Integrated sun shield |
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Notes:
- Prices are approximate and may vary depending on retailer and model year.
- This table is a starting point for your research. Be sure to read reviews and compare features before making a purchase.
Introducing the Scorpion EXO Covert FX
Coming in at around $250, the Scorpion EXO Covert FX stands out as a fantastic option for budget-minded riders seeking a feature-rich, comfortable, and safe full-face helmet. With its aggressive street fighter aesthetic, the Covert FX goes beyond just basic protection, offering a stylish design that complements your ride.
In-Depth Review of Scorpion EXO Covert FX
Safety Certifications:
Safety is paramount, and the Covert FX doesn’t disappoint. It meets the DOT and ECE safety standards (depending on your region), ensuring it has undergone rigorous testing to protect your head in a crash.
Comfort and Fit:
The Covert FX boasts a plush, removable and washable liner made with a moisture-wicking material. This translates to a comfortable ride, especially on longer journeys, and allows for easy cleaning after sweaty adventures. While the video mentioned potential sizing issues, the Covert FX comes in a wide range of sizes (XS-3XL) to ensure a proper fit. Finding the perfect size is crucial for both comfort and safety, so don’t hesitate to consult the manufacturer’s sizing guide or visit a motorcycle gear store to try one on before you buy.
Ventilation:
The Covert FX features a ventilation system with two intake vents on top and an exhaust vent at the rear. The reviewer in the video noted that airflow might not be the strongest, particularly for riders on naked bikes who experience more wind buffeting. However, for riders with fairings or those who don’t mind a bit more ventilation control, the system should provide adequate airflow.
Visor:
The Covert FX comes with an anti-scratch, anti-fog visor for optimal clarity and safety on the road. The video mentioned the visor is easy to remove for cleaning or replacement, a plus for keeping your vision clear.
Noise Levels:
The video reviewer mentioned some wind noise at higher speeds. While a quieter helmet is always preferable, this is a common trade-off for some budget helmets. If wind noise is a major concern for you, consider researching aftermarket wind tamer accessories that can be added to the helmet.
Additional Features:
The Covert FX includes integrated speaker pockets for easy installation of a communication system, perfect for staying connected with riding buddies or listening to music on your rides.
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Conclusion
The Scorpion EXO Covert FX is a remarkable helmet for budget-conscious riders who prioritize safety, comfort, and features without sacrificing style. It meets the highest safety standards (DOT and ECE), boasts a comfortable and washable liner, offers decent ventilation, and includes extras like a removable anti-scratch visor and speaker pockets – all at a price point under $250. As our research and the video review highlighted, the Covert FX delivers exceptional value for riders seeking a feature-rich, comfortable, and safe helmet.
If you’re looking for a helmet that excels in both safety and features without breaking the bank, the Scorpion EXO Covert FX is definitely worth considering. Several online retailers carry the Scorpion EXO Covert FX, and you can find more information and customer reviews with a quick web search.
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Additional Considerations
It’s important to note that the video review was based on a short-term assessment, and long-term durability remains to be seen. However, Scorpion is a reputable brand known for quality helmets, so you can be confident you’re getting a good product.
Finally, remember – a helmet’s most important quality is a proper fit. While we’ve provided information on the Covert FX’s size range, it’s crucial to try on a helmet before you buy to ensure a snug, comfortable fit. Visit your local motorcycle gear store and get sized by a professional to guarantee you get the best possible protection from your Scorpion EXO Covert FX.
Frequently Asked Questions About Budget Motorcycle Helmets
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The Best Stretching Exercises for Sportbike Riders
Riding a sportbike can be an exhilarating experience, offering a sense of freedom and excitement. However, it can also be demanding on the body, particularly on the muscles and joints used most during rides. To ensure both safety and enjoyment while riding, incorporating stretching exercises into your routine is essential. Below, we outline the best stretching exercises specifically designed for sportbike riders, aiming to enhance flexibility, reduce muscle stiffness, and prevent injury.
Key Takeaways
- Stretching improves flexibility and range of motion, essential for comfortable and safe riding.
- Regular stretching can prevent muscle stiffness and soreness, particularly in areas heavily used during rides such as the wrists, shoulders, and legs.
- Incorporating exercise stretch bands can enhance stretching routines, offering resistance that can help improve overall flexibility.
Comparison Table: Stretching vs. No Stretching for Sportbike Riders
Criteria With Stretching Without Stretching Flexibility Improved Decreased Muscle Soreness Reduced Increased Injury Risk Lowered Elevated Riding Comfort Enhanced Compromised Recovery Time Shortened Lengthened Why Stretching is Crucial for Motorcycle Riders
Before delving into the specific exercises, it’s important to understand why stretching is so beneficial for motorcycle riders. Stretching can improve range of motion, decrease the risk of muscle soreness and injuries, and enhance your overall riding experience by keeping the body flexible and prepared for the demands of riding.
Best Stretches for Motorcycle Riding
- Wrist Extensor and Flexor Stretches
- Purpose: Alleviates wrist stiffness and prevents arm pump.
- How to Do: Extend your arm, palm down, and gently pull the fingers towards your body with the other hand. For the flexor stretch, extend your arm, palm up, and pull the fingers towards your body.
- Shoulder and Chest Openers
- Purpose: Opens the chest and shoulders, counteracting the forward-leaning posture.
- How to Do: Interlace your fingers behind your back, straighten your arms, and lift your chest upwards, feeling the stretch in your shoulders and chest.
- Hip Flexor Lunges
- Purpose: Loosens the hip flexors, crucial for maintaining a comfortable riding position.
- How to Do: Step forward into a lunge, keeping the back leg straight and the front leg at a 90-degree angle. Push your hips forward.
- Quadriceps Stretch
- Purpose: Stretches the front thigh muscles, which can become tight from the riding position.
- How to Do: Standing on one leg, pull the other foot towards your buttock, keeping the knees together.
- Seated Hamstring Stretch
- Purpose: Increases flexibility in the back of the legs.
- How to Do: Sit on the ground, extend your legs, and reach towards your toes.
- Glute and Piriformis Stretch
- Purpose: Relieves tightness in the buttocks and lower back.
- How to Do: Sitting on the floor, cross one leg over the other and gently pull the knee towards the opposite shoulder.
Incorporating Stretch Bands for Enhanced Flexibility
Exercise stretch bands can be a valuable tool for motorcycle riders looking to enhance their stretching routine. They provide resistance, increase the effectiveness of stretches, and help improve overall flexibility. Here are a couple of stretches using exercise bands:
- Band-Assisted Hamstring Stretch: Lie on your back, loop a band around your foot, and gently pull back, keeping the leg straight.
- Shoulder Stretch with Band: Hold a stretch band in both hands, lift your arms over your head and behind your back, stretching the shoulders.
FAQs on Stretching for Motorcycle Riding
- How often should I stretch?
- Ideally, before and after each ride to warm up and cool down the muscles.
- Can stretching improve my riding performance?
- Yes, by enhancing flexibility and reducing muscle fatigue.
- Are there stretches to prevent lower back pain from riding?
- Yes, hip flexor stretches and lower back stretches can help alleviate and prevent lower back pain.
- Why is stretching important for motorcycle riders? S
- tretching improves flexibility and reduces the risk of muscle stiffness and injuries, making riding more comfortable and enjoyable.
- How often should I stretch for the best results?
- Ideally, before and after each ride to prepare your muscles for the ride and to aid in recovery afterwards.
- Can stretching help with lower back pain from riding?
- Yes, specific stretches targeting the lower back and hip flexors can alleviate and prevent lower back pain.
- Are exercise stretch bands beneficial for riders?
- Yes, they add resistance to stretches, effectively improving flexibility and strength in key muscle groups.
- What are the best stretches for sportbike riders?
- Wrist, shoulder, hip flexor, quadriceps, hamstring, and glute stretches are highly beneficial.
- How long should each stretch be held?
- Each stretch should be held for at least 30 seconds to maximize its effectiveness.
Conclusion
Incorporating these stretching exercises into your routine can significantly enhance your motorcycle riding experience. Not only do they prepare your body for the ride, but they also help prevent post-ride stiffness and soreness. Remember, consistency is key to seeing improvements in flexibility and to enjoy a more comfortable and enjoyable ride.
For more tips on fitness and motorcycle riding, check out our Fitness Blog at RunTheCity. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just starting, understanding and practicing these stretches can lead to a healthier, more enjoyable riding experience.
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Viking Moto Motorcycle Backpack Review
Viking Moto Motorcycle Backpack Review
Let’s all agree that the biggest problem with our bikes being daily transportation is the lack of hauling capacity.
So, just as in our scholastic days, backpacks to the rescue! But not just any backpack will do. We’re out in the elements, we’re hauling heavier stuff than a few books, and of course, we don’t want to look like a vagabond. That’s where awesome designs like the Viking Bag’s Motorcycle Backpack shine.
This isn’t your high school backpack, oh no. This Cordura backpack features a modern classic look with leather trim and an understated aesthetic that will match your jacket and your bike, no matter what type of bike you like to ride.
Let’s take a closer look at this awesome bag, and how it can make your daily rides so much cooler.
Shot and Edited by Shaun Maddox
https://shaunmaddox.com/
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Construction
As I said, this backpack is made of Cordura, a modern marvel of material sciences that fits comfortably on your body, while not being a floppy, frail backpack. With dimensions of 18.5”x12.5”x5”, you can carry groceries, personal items, or personal items with ease and comfort no other bag can offer.
Need more organization, or to haul some electronics with you? Well, Viking’s completely onboard with 21st-century life, including a laptop sleeve and stretchy, sewn in pockets for organizing your styluses, connection cords, your phone, and anything else delicate and vital you may need to carry.
That’s not even the coolest thing this bag can do. We all know how important our helmet is for safety, but when we get off our bike, it becomes a cumbersome nuisance to carry around or somehow safely secure to our bike. With this Viking bag, that’s not an issue, thanks to the stretchy helmet lining which can hold pretty much any helmet of any size no problem.
Gone are any excuses, whatsoever, to forego your helmet. You know who you are!
The Feel
I took one of these out for a day ride, that is about 6 hours round trip, to go shopping in another area (I usually wouldn’t, but it’s a good field test for gear like this). By the time I reached my destination, I almost forgot this bag was even attached to me, and that was with a heavy laptop and backup battery in my bag.
I did, however, notice that as I took the bag off when going into a restaurant, that my shirt was a bit damp, as I’d sweat from where it blocked air flow to an extent. However, having had other bags leave the back of my shirt completely soaked through, I’d call this a considerable improvement in that department. Given this bag is weatherized, it kind of can’t have the airflow of something mesh, and I’d rather sweat a tiny bit while having my stuff protected from the elements.
What really caught my attention was the lack of soreness or discomfort across my shoulders, neck and upper back. I’m a broad-shouldered fellow, which means most backpacks with any weight, tend to tug on muscles and leave me sore or even numb – the broad design of the straps both across the shoulders and waist, didn’t cause that problem at all.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- This is an attractive bag that doesn’t scream “hobo” or “kid”, with a professional yet casual aesthetic that matches any jacket well enough.
- It’s weatherized, and will protect everything with gusto.
- It’s very comfortable, and the strap designs don’t cause soreness, discomfort or circulation problems.
- I can carry my electronics in an organized fashion – this modern thinking is lost on a lot of biking gear companies.
- The helmet lining does the biking community two great services by making our helmets no longer a nuisance, and eliminating any excuses for anyone to foolishly leave their helmets behind.
Cons
- Being weatherized, you will sweat a little bit, it can’t be helped.
- While attractive, the black may not be everyone’s taste.
- I know a few hefty guys who might find the fit of this bag, adjustable as it is, to be a bit precarious.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS
- Heavy duty Cardura Construction.
- Reflective piping for additional night time visibility.
- Built in helmet hood.
- Fits most 15″ laptops in padded compartment.
- Detailed organizer for your keys, wallet and other small items.
- Protective eyewear pocket.
- Duraflex® buckles throughout for added strength.
- Audio Ready.
- Height and width adjustable sternum strap.
- Aerodynamic molded body.
Conclusion
I like this bag. It’s not perfect, and I can see some room for improvement in variety of color schemes as well as a bit more adjustability in the straps for bigger people. I’d also like to see another model that’s stretchier, for if I have more stuff to haul back.
Nonetheless, this is a nice bag, and if you ride your bike for daily things like I do in decent weather, you owe it to yourself to give a bag like this a try!
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Sena GP10 Bluetooth Pack for the GoPro Review
If you have always wanted to record turn-by-turn commentary on your rides and you use a GoPro Hero 3 or 4 to record, the Sena GP10 Bluetooth pack is a must-have accessory. The “BacPac” allows you to record narration in real time using Sena’s “Ultra HD Voice Recording” mode or the “Normal” mode. You can even combine voices from other intercom users so the entire conversation can be used as an overlay voice-over. Download the Sena GP10 User Guide Here
