You pull into a gas station during your daily commute and now you really need something cool to drink, and maybe a chance to stretch. Unfortunately, having a full-face helmet makes it difficult to unstrap, wrestle the shell free, and then find a way to hold onto the drink while you take care of business. Favoto's Modular Motorcycle Helmet allows you simply to lift the chin bar, talk, drink, and breathe freely, eliminating all of that rigmarole. And that single motion is exactly why riders continue to return to this product.
Construction and Safety
DOT approval is a baseline requirement from any street helmet, and this one is certified. The shell is made from high strength ABS plastic which surrounds an EPS impact liner, the same formula used by manufacturers to make reasonably priced lids. Many of the reviewers mentioned that the DOT approval was the primary factor that gave them confidence in purchasing the helmet.
The chin guard snaps securely into place when lowered. You will hear it click. That click matters because there are many flip-up helmets that do not snap into place properly, resulting in nothing but a weak hinge waiting to fail. The reviews indicate that the snapping mechanism feels very sturdy when locked.
ABS is not carbon fiber. ABS is heavier, less exotic, and less desirable than carbon fiber. However, for the price point of this helmet, it is the correct material choice. Furthermore, the shell appears to be thick enough to provide a sense of security while holding it.
Air flow vents run along the top and bottom edges of the helmet. Both have closure mechanisms. Closure mechanisms matter more than many may realize, because if you are unable to close either vent, a cold morning ride becomes an even colder ride. The fact that these vents are closable means that you are able to control airflow as opposed to allowing the helmet to decide for you.
For being modular, this helmet seems quite lightweight. Flip-up helmets typically come with a penalty in terms of added weight due to the additional components needed for the hinge and locking mechanism. However, this particular helmet does not weigh nearly as much as expected.
Comfort and Fit
Both the liner and cheek pads are removable and washable. These details may seem insignificant but they add significant benefit. Most helmets become saturated with sweat over time, and a removable liner helps to maintain freshness regardless of whether you are riding a short distance or longer trip.
Available sizing options are M for head circumference 57 to 58 centimeters and L for head circumference 59 to 60 centimeters. Reviews suggest to measure your head prior to selecting a size instead of relying on past experiences.
A unique aspect of this helmet is the inclusion of two visors: an exterior shield, and a retractable sun visor located inside. When riding into low sun conditions you don't have to remove your gloves or fumble with sunglasses to avoid glare. Simply lower the internal visor and the world instantly becomes clearer.
Several reviewers reported that after wearing the helmet for the first time the cheek pads felt snug, which is typical for new helmets. They eventually broke in. A few reviewers noted that the helmet fits according to the sizing chart provided by Favoto. Therefore, rely on the manufacturer's information as opposed to your initial impression.
The flip-up operation is seamless. Once you learn how to operate it with one hand, you'll experience how convenient it is at a drive-through, toll booths, or while taking a quick phone call.
What Amazon Reviewers Are Saying
There are twenty reviews associated with this helmet with an overall rating of 4.3 stars. While the majority of reviews were overwhelmingly positive, several reviewers did share some criticisms regarding certain aspects of this helmet.
Many of the positive comments centered on perceived value. Multiple reviewers described this helmet as providing a lot of helmet for not much money. In addition to DOT certification and a flip-up modular design, this helmet provides other features such as a dual visor system and included storage bag that several reviewers believe contribute to its value proposition.
In addition to perceived value, multiple reviewers commented on the convenience of the design. Specifically, the flip-up design, dual visor system, storage bag, etc., all combined to create a package that several reviewers believed was more valuable than its price would suggest.
As with any product, several reviewers had criticisms. One criticism expressed by a few reviewers pertained to difficulties with sizing. Reviewers recommended using precise head measurements to determine proper sizing versus relying on previous helmet fitting experiences.
Another criticism expressed by a couple of reviewers pertains to the liner density. Compared to high-end touring helmets with thicker liners and more luxurious padding, some reviewers found this helmet's liner density lacking. However, for the price point of this helmet, most reviewers indicated that they felt it was a reasonable compromise.
Lastly, wind noise was mentioned in a couple of reviews. Because modular helmets inherently allow more airflow through gaps created by hinges compared to rigid shell designs, this helmet is no different. Although earplugs were suggested by many reviewers as a solution, most seemed willing to accept the wind noise as part of the flip-up functionality.
The included storage bag received little attention in most reviews. It is however worth noting that although it is a relatively minor accessory, it was appreciated by several reviewers that Favoto chose to include the storage bag rather than force customers to purchase one separately.
Who Is This Helmet For?
This helmet benefits commuters looking for modular convenience without paying for the convenience. Commuter riders often spend extended periods in and out of their helmets during the course of their daily commutes, thus utilizing their helmets' ability to easily open and close at each stop.
Additionally, city riders could benefit from this style of helmet as well. City riders often require more agility with their bikes, perform many low-speed maneuvers and frequently dismount their bikes at intersections or parking lots. In these cases an easy-to-open and easy-to-close design offers convenience.
Finally, budget-conscious consumers are also the intended target market for this helmet. Consumers seeking a DOT-approved helmet but unwilling or unable to spend triple this amount on a flagship modular will likely find this model appealing.
However, track riders will want to look elsewhere, as flip-up helmets are designed for urban commuting purposes and lack the structural integrity required for racing applications. Additionally, those requiring premium liner materials or ultra-low levels of wind noise will also prefer models costing significantly more. But for general street riding needs this helmet is worthy of consideration.
Compare it against the rest of our modular and full face picks before you decide, and read through our other helmet reviews for context on what to look for.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this helmet DOT approved?
Yes. The Favoto Modular Motorcycle Helmet complies with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 218 (FMVSS 218), which satisfies the federal safety standard for street riding in the United States.
Does the chin bar lock securely?
Yes. The chin guard clicks into position when lowered and remains securely attached until manually released by the user. Reviewers report the mechanism feels secure at speed.
Are there different sizes available?
Yes. Two sizes are available: Medium (M) for head circumference 57 to 58 centimeters and Large (L) for 59 to 60 centimeters. It is highly recommended to obtain accurate measurements before selecting a size.
Can I clean my liner?
Yes. The liner and cheek pads are completely removable and washable, so maintaining cleanliness and hygiene is possible throughout your ownership period.
How do I utilize both visors?
An outer shield protects against wind-borne debris and road grime, while an inner drop-down sun visor reduces glare and eye strain caused by sunlight. You get both in one helmet.
Is it good for long rides?
It handles day trips fine, but wind noise around the hinge line means earplugs help on the highway. For the price, reviewers consider it a fair trade.
Favoto has built a reputation in the budget gear space, and you can check their brand lineup for the rest of what they offer. Grab it on Amazon if the modular convenience sounds right for your commute.