Choosing an ECE 22.06-Certified Modular Motorcycle Helmet

For any motorcycle or scooter rider, choosing a helmet is a serious decision. Should you prioritise the absolute protection of a full-face model or the convenience of an open-face helmet for urban commutes? It's a real dilemma. This is where the modular motorcycle helmet, also known as a flip-up motorcycle helmet, comes in as the champion of versatility. With the new, much stricter ECE 22.06 safety standard now in effect, being informed before you buy has never been more crucial.

This guide is here to help you break down the key criteria for choosing the right ECE 22.06-certified modular motorcycle helmet and to present our top picks, whether for your daily commute or weekend rides.

How to Choose Your ECE 22.06 Modular Helmet??

Before you commit to a model, let's review a few decisive technical points. They will ensure you make an informed choice that is perfectly suited to your riding style and your comfort and safety requirements.

1. Dual P/J Homologation?: A Guarantee of Versatility

This is the non-negotiable feature of a good modular helmet: dual P/J homologation. You'll find it on the white label sewn inside the helmet.

• "P" (Protective) homologation certifies that the helmet offers chin protection equivalent to a full-face helmet when the chin bar is in the closed position.
• "J" (Jet) homologation guarantees that you can ride legally and safely with the chin bar in the raised position. This dual certification is your ticket to complete flexibility, whether you're cruising on the motorway or running an errand in town.

2. Comfort and Practical Features

A helmet is sometimes worn for hours on end, so its comfort is not optional. Several elements come into play:

• The dual visor?: This is a life-changing feature. A motorcycle helmet with an integrated sun visor is a real bonus. This retractable, tinted shield, easy to operate even with gloves on, prevents you from being dazzled and saves you from juggling sunglasses.
• Removable and washable liner?: For hygiene and longevity, this is a must-have. Favour models where the inner padding can be easily removed for washing.
• Intercom-ready design?: For those who ride in groups, follow a GPS, or enjoy listening to music, a Bluetooth-compatible motorcycle helmet is almost essential. Many models provide dedicated slots to integrate a communication kit hassle-free.

3. Shell Material and Weight

The outer shell is your first line of defence in an impact. There are two main families of materials: polycarbonate (ABS) and composite fibres (fibreglass, carbon, aramid). While polycarbonate offers an excellent protection-to-price ratio, fibre shells are generally lighter—a significant advantage for reducing neck strain on long journeys. Weight is a key criterion for a modular full-face helmet, whose chin bar mechanism inevitably adds weight compared to a classic full-face helmet.

Our ECE 22.06-Certified Helmet Picks

To guide you, here is a selection of helmets that tick all the boxes: compliance with the ECE 22.06 standard and features favoured by riders.

MY-936 Full-Face Helmet, Matte Titanium Finish

Why it stands out This model is an excellent option for those who prefer the one-piece structure of a full-face helmet but don't want to give up modern features. Its ABS shell and multi-density EPS liner ensure shock absorption in full compliance with the ECE 22.06 standard.

Key features

• ECE R 22.06 homologation.
• Internal sun visor integrated to quickly adapt to changing light conditions.
• Fully removable and washable interior for easy maintenance.
• Modern and discreet matte finish.

Who is it for?? For motorcycle and scooter riders looking for a safe and practical full-face helmet for daily use, with a good level of equipment and an accessible price point. Its universal design is suitable for both men and women.

MY-935 Modular Helmet, Matte Black Finish

Why it stands out The MY-935 is the epitome of the flip-up motorcycle helmet that combines safety and versatility. Certified ECE 22.06, it packs everything you'd expect from a modern helmet, including a dedicated slot for a Bluetooth communication system.

Key features

• ECE 22.06 certification.
• Modular design with a flip-up chin bar.
• Dual-visor motorcycle helmet?: clear main shield and internal sun visor.
• Slot provided for the installation of a Bluetooth intercom kit.
• Comfortable and washable interior.

Who is it for?? This modular scooter helmet is perfect for urban riders and touring enthusiasts who appreciate the freedom to flip up the chin bar when stopped. Its Bluetooth-ready design makes it a smart choice for connected riders.

MY-935 Modular Helmet, Matte Titanium Finish

Why it stands out This helmet shares all the excellent technical features of its matte black counterpart but stands out with its elegant titanium finish. It offers the same ECE 22.06 protection level and the same versatility, making it an excellent modular full-face helmet for mixed road/city use.

Key features

• ECE 22.06 homologation for enhanced safety.
• Convenient flip-up chin bar system.
• Dual sun shield for optimal visual comfort.
• Compatible with the addition of a communication system.
• Universal design suitable for men's and women's motorcycle helmets.

Who is it for?? For those who are drawn to the strengths of the MY-935 but prefer a lighter, more distinctive colour. It is ideal for motorcycle and scooter riders who switch between city streets and the open road and demand a versatile and safe helmet.

Looking for Other Options??

The modular helmet is an excellent solution, but it's not the only one. If your riding is predominantly on the road or track, or if you're a die-hard fan of the one-piece design, many alternatives exist.

To discover a wider range of models, feel free to explore our complete category of Full-Face Motorcycle Helmet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the ECE 22.06 homologation standard??

The ECE 22.06 standard is the latest European regulation for motorcycle helmet safety. Replacing the old 22.05 standard, it imposes much stricter tests, which now include:

• Impact tests at different speeds (high and low).
• A greater number of impact points tested on the shell.
• An oblique impact test to measure resistance to rotational forces, a key factor in preventing certain brain injuries.
• Tests on accessories like sun visors and chin bars. Choosing an ECE 22.06-certified helmet means ensuring you benefit from the highest safety standards available today.

Can you ride with the chin bar up on a modular helmet??

Yes, but only if the helmet has dual P/J homologation. The letter "J" on the certification label attests that the helmet has been tested and approved for use in the "jet" configuration (chin bar up). If the helmet is only "P" homologated, it is mandatory to keep the chin bar closed while riding.

How do you choose the right helmet size??

A correctly sized helmet is crucial for both safety and comfort. To find yours, it's simple: take a measuring tape and measure the circumference of your head. Place the tape about 2.5 cm (1 inch) above your eyebrows and wrap it around, passing over the most prominent part at the back of your head. Then, refer to the manufacturer's size guide with this measurement in centimetres. Remember: a new helmet should feel snug on your cheeks without creating any painful pressure points on your forehead or skull.