Riding a motorcycle is about freedom, adrenaline, and the open road but it’s also about making smart choices for your safety and comfort. At Big Bike Book, we know that the right helmet is one of the most important investments a biker can make. That’s why we stock top-quality helmets from brands like Shoei, Sidi, Spada, Airoh, Sena, and Caberg at discounted prices for riders across the UK.
Understanding the different types of motorcycle helmets can make a huge difference in how you ride, how comfortable you feel, and how safe you are on the road. In this guide, we’ll dive into the three main helmet types: open face, flip-up (modular), and full face, and explore how they’re used in commuting, touring, off-road, and everyday riding.
Open Face Helmets – Freedom and Visibility
Open face helmets, sometimes called ¾ helmets, cover the top, back, and sides of your head but leave your face exposed. They’re the choice for riders who want to feel the wind on their face while still keeping most of their head protected. Wearing an open face helmet is effortless, you can slide it on and off quickly, which makes it perfect for short trips into town or popping down to your local bike meet.
For commuting in the city, an open face helmet is a practical companion. It’s lightweight, ventilated, and allows you to easily communicate with fellow riders or pedestrians without shouting over engine noise. On slower rides or leisurely weekend cruises, you get the classic biker feel: the sound of your engine, the smell of the road, and that open sense of freedom.
Open face helmets also shine on warm summer rides through Cornwall or the Lake District, keeping you cool while still providing head protection. They’re the perfect choice for bikers who value style, ease of use, and that authentic open-road experience.
Quick Highlights:
- Lightweight, ventilated, and easy to wear.
- Ideal for city commuting and weekend cruising.
- Great for riders who enjoy open-air freedom and visibility.
SHOP OPEN FACE MOTORBIKE HELMETS
Flip-Up / Modular Helmets – Versatile and Convenient
Modular helmets, or flip-up helmets, are the best of both worlds. They offer full-face protection when you need it but can be flipped open to give you an open-face experience without removing your helmet. This versatility makes them a favourite for touring riders and commuters alike. Wearing a modular helmet feels natural whether you’re zooming down the motorway or stopping at a petrol station for a quick refill.
For long-distance rides across the UK, from the Scottish Highlands to the southern coast, a flip-up helmet is invaluable. You can lift the chin bar to chat with fellow bikers at a café or take a breather without sacrificing safety. On wet or windy days, you simply snap it down for full protection. Many modular helmets are also compatible with Bluetooth systems, making it easy to keep your music, navigation, or calls handy on longer journeys.
If you’re riding dual-purpose or adventure bikes, the modular helmet allows flexibility. It’s the helmet that works when commuting in Manchester traffic, cruising the scenic A roads in Devon, or exploring backcountry tracks off the beaten path. Essentially, it adapts to the way you ride, giving you confidence, comfort, and convenience wherever the road takes you.
Quick Highlights:
- Flip-up chin bar allows open-face use without removing the helmet.
- Ideal for touring, commuting, and variable weather.
- Compatible with Bluetooth systems for music, calls, and navigation.
SHOP FLIP UP MOTORBIKE HELMETS
Full-Face Helmets – Maximum Protection and Performance
Full-face helmets offer the ultimate protection, covering your entire head, including the chin and jaw. When you’re wearing one, you feel like you’re ready for anything—from motorway speeds to sudden stops in wet and windy UK weather. There’s a reassuring sense of security that comes with a full-face helmet, whether you’re hitting a track day or heading out for a weekend tour across Yorkshire or the Peak District.
These helmets aren’t just about safety, they’re about comfort and performance too. Full-face helmets provide excellent wind and weather resistance, reducing fatigue during long rides. They are quieter than open or modular helmets, which makes them ideal for motorway commuting or extended touring. Riders tackling high-speed bends or twisty country roads will also appreciate the aerodynamic design, which keeps the helmet stable even in gusty conditions.
For bikers who ride sport bikes, adventure tourers, or even commuters who face unpredictable UK weather, full-face helmets offer peace of mind and protection without compromise. Pairing one with a pinlock visor or anti-fog insert ensures visibility on damp, foggy mornings, making every ride safer and more enjoyable.
Quick Highlights:
- Offers the highest level of protection for the whole head.
- Ideal for high-speed riding, long-distance touring, and adverse weather.
- Reduces wind noise and fatigue, improving comfort on extended rides.
SHOP FULL FACE MOTORBIKE HELMETS
Choosing the Right Helmet for Your Ride
When picking a helmet, think about how and where you ride. Open face helmets suit urban cruising and warm-weather touring, modular helmets provide the ultimate versatility for city and long-distance rides, and full-face helmets are the choice for maximum protection and high-speed comfort. Each helmet type has its own personality, and finding the right one can transform how you experience the road.
At Big Bike Book, we make it easy to find a helmet that fits your style, your bike, and your budget. From Shoei and Airoh to Caberg, Sidi, Spada, and Sena, we’ve got UK bikers covered with premium gear at discounted prices. Whatever your ride, there’s a helmet here that’ll make you feel confident, safe, and ready to hit the tarmac.
Ride smart. Ride safe. And wear the helmet that matches your journey.
