Finding the perfect sports-touring motorcycle helmet that balances safety, comfort, and style without emptying your wallet can be quite the quest. Luckily, we’ve done the legwork for you. Here’s a detailed guide to the best sports-touring helmets under £300 that won’t skimp on quality or features.

What to Look for in a Sports-Touring Helmet?

Before diving into the top picks, let’s talk about what makes a great sports-touring helmet. You’ll want something that:

  • Offers superior protection: Look for helmets with high safety ratings.
  • Provides comfort for long rides: Good ventilation and a comfortable liner are key.
  • Has practical features: Such as a sun visor, easy-to-use fastening system, and good aerodynamics.
  • Is within your budget: Quality doesn’t always mean expensive.

Top Picks for Sports-Touring Motorcycle Helmets Under £300

  1. HJC C70
    • Price: Around £130
    • Features: Lightweight polycarbonate shell, integrated sun visor, advanced ventilation system.
    • Pros: Great value for money, comfortable fit, good airflow.
    • Cons: Slightly noisier at high speeds.
  2. Shark Skwal 2
    • Price: Around £220
    • Features: LED lighting system, Pinlock Max Vision visor, aerodynamic design.
    • Pros: Enhanced visibility, comfortable, stylish design.
    • Cons: LED system requires regular charging.
  3. AGV K3 SV
    • Price: Around £230
    • Features: Integrated sun visor, removable and washable interior, aerodynamic shell.
    • Pros: Excellent ventilation, high safety ratings, stylish.
    • Cons: Slightly heavier than some competitors.
  4. Scorpion EXO-1400 Air
    • Price: Around £250
    • Features: AirFit inflation system for a custom fit, Pinlock-ready, KwikWick III interior liner.
    • Pros: Personalized fit, comfortable, good noise reduction.
    • Cons: AirFit system might take some getting used to.
  5. Nolan N87
    • Price: Around £190
    • Features: Pinlock anti-fog insert, internal sun visor, Clima Comfort inner padding.
    • Pros: Great all-weather performance, very comfortable, good value.
    • Cons: Sun visor can be fiddly to operate.
  6. Caberg Duke II
    • Price: Around £150
    • Features: Dual homologation (open and full-face), anti-scratch visor, internal sun visor.
    • Pros: Versatile design, good ventilation, affordable.
    • Cons: Slightly bulkier than other models.
  7. LS2 Valiant
    • Price: Around £250
    • Features: 180-degree flip-up chin bar, drop-down sun visor, fully removable and washable interior.
    • Pros: Versatile and convenient, good ventilation, comfortable.
    • Cons: Heavier due to flip-up mechanism.

Tips for Choosing the Right Helmet

  1. Safety First: Always check for certifications like ECE, DOT, or Snell.
  2. Comfort is Key: Try helmets on before buying, if possible. Look for a snug but comfortable fit.
  3. Ventilation: Ensure the helmet has good airflow to keep you cool during long rides.
  4. Visor Features: Anti-fog and anti-scratch visors can greatly enhance your riding experience.
  5. Noise Levels: Consider helmets with noise reduction features, especially if you ride at high speeds.