Schuberth E2 vs Scorpion AT960: Best ADV Touring Helmet?
Evan Rally
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Adventure touring helmets are some of the hardest working pieces of gear you’ll buy. They need to balance road comfort, off-road flexibility, and long-haul durability, all while protecting you at highway speeds with a peak visor catching wind.
Among modular ADV helmets, two models come up again and again: the Schuberth E2, a premium European lid designed for quietness and comfort, and the Scorpion EXO-AT960, a value-focused all-rounder that brings flip-front versatility at a third of the price.
On paper, both helmets target the same rider: someone who wants modular convenience, a sun visor, and ADV versatility without giving up safety certifications. But they live in very different price brackets. The E2 retails around $750–799, while the AT960 sits at $280–320. That’s a ~$500 gap — and it raises the question: is the Schuberth really worth that premium, or does the Scorpion get you 80% of the way there for far less?
Let’s break it down.
Quick Verdict
Who should buy the Schuberth E2
- Riders who prioritize a quieter ride at highway speeds
- Touring riders who want premium comfort and finish for long days in the saddle
- Buyers who need seamless comms integration and are willing to pay for it
A high-performance modular helmet with a handcrafted fiberglass shell reinforced with carbon fiber for lightweight durability.
- Superior aerodynamics for reduced wind resistance
- COOLMAX interior for enhanced comfort and breathability
- Integrated Bluetooth-ready design for seamless connectivity
- At highway speeds, the peak may introduce minor buffeting
Who should buy the Scorpion EXO-AT960
- Riders on a budget who still want modular flexibility
- ADV riders who use goggles or frequently ride off-road
- Buyers who value versatility (flip-up + peak visor + large eyeport) more than refinement
A do-everything helmet, it's as comfortable on trails as the highway - though not as solid as premium competitors like the Arai XD-5. One of the rare modular ADV helmets, it's also it's DOT and ECE approved.
- Modular chinbar (rare in ADV helmet)
- Removable peak
- Decent airflow
- Drop down sun shade
- DOT and ECE 22‑06 approved
- Susceptible to visor leaks and fogging in heavy rain
- Sun peak vibrates noticeably at highway speeds
The Schuberth E2 is worth the extra ~$550 if quietness and long-distance comfort are your top priorities; otherwise, the AT960 delivers most ADV modular versatility at a fraction of the cost.
Specs Snapshot: How They Stack Up
| Specs | Schuberth E2 | Scorpion EXO-AT960 |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | ~1,700–1,850g (3.7–4.1 lb) depending on size | ~1,858g (4.1 lb) in size M |
| Fit/Shape | Intermediate oval, snug European fit | Intermediate oval, slightly roomier |
| Shell/Materials | Fiberglass + basalt fiber composite | Advanced LG polycarbonate |
| Safety Certs | DOT & ECE 22.06 (P/J dual homologated) | DOT & ECE 22.06 (P/J dual homologated) |
| Ventilation | Redesigned top vents, adjustable chin, exhaust ports | Large chin intake, crown intake, rear exhaust |
| Sun Visor / Visor | Integrated drop-down sun visor, Pinlock 120 included | Drop-down sun visor, accepts Pinlock (not always included) |
| Comms Compatibility | Pre-wired for SC2 (Sena 50S); speaker & mic pockets | Speaker pockets for universal kits; EXO-COM option |
| Warranty | 5 years | 5 years |
| Street Price (Sept 2025) | $749–799 | $280–320 |
Which Helmet Fits Your Ride?
Choose the Schuberth E2 if…
- You ride long ADV days at highway speeds and want the quietest possible lid
- You value premium interior comfort and plush materials over raw features
- You want the security of dual-homologated modular certification and composite shell tech
- You plan to use Schuberth’s SC2 comms system (or already run Sena 50S hardware)
- You expect to ride in wet or cold conditions where a better seal matters
- You can justify a $750+ investment for reduced fatigue and high touring comfort
Choose the Scorpion EXO-AT960 if…
- You want ADV modular versatility under $350
- You frequently ride off-road and need a goggle-compatible eye port
- You prefer a roomier fit or wear glasses (better eyeglass channels)
- You want an affordable flip-front ADV helmet with modern ECE 22.06 certification
- You like the option of removing the peak and running it as a street modular
- You can tolerate more noise and slightly heavier feel to save money
Voices from the Saddle: What Owners Say
Schuberth E2
- Praised as one of the quietest ADV modulars; noticeably less turbulence than Shoei Neotec or Schuberth E1
- Plush liner materials, with comfort improving over long-distance rides
- Pinlock 120 insert included and highly effective at preventing fog in cold/wet conditions
- Runs warm in summer; ventilation often described as “good, not great”
- Snug European fit divides riders — can feel cramped for wider heads
- Premium price frequently mentioned; some owners only purchased when discounted
If you want a deep dive into long-term impressions, check out our Schuberth E2 50-hour test, where we pushed it through touring miles, highway stretches, and mixed weather.
Scorpion EXO-AT960
- Pinlock not included by default, frustrating for riders in humid or cold regions
- Positive feedback on versatility: removable peak, goggle-friendly eye port, and comfortable interior
- Considered an upgrade over the older AT950 with better refinement
- Regarded as a strong “budget do-everything” modular for ~$300
- Noise is average to loud at freeway speeds; earplugs recommended
- Peak causes buffeting behind tall windscreens
- Heavier than average; some report chin vent allows dust ingress off-road
Feature Face-Off: E2 vs AT960 by Category
Noise at Highway Speeds
Noise is where these helmets differ most.
The Schuberth E2 benefits from extensive wind-tunnel testing. At 60–70 mph, especially behind a touring screen, it remains calm and controlled. Riders often mention being able to listen to podcasts or comms without cranking the volume. Even with the peak installed, whistling and flutter are minimal. Standing up into clean air does raise noise levels, but they remain manageable. Over long days, this quietness translates directly into less fatigue.
The Scorpion EXO-AT960 is respectable at city pace or on backroads, but once freeway speeds are involved, more wind seeps through the neck roll and shell seams. The peak also introduces turbulence, especially with taller windscreens. Removing it reduces buffeting but compromises the ADV look and sun shading. With earplugs, it’s tolerable, but on multi-hour rides you’ll notice the difference compared to the Schuberth.
Verdict: The E2 is the clear winner for highway touring. The AT960’s noise is acceptable for casual riders under 60 mph but can’t match the refinement of the Schuberth.
Weight & Fatigue
Both helmets weigh in around 4 lbs, but how that weight is carried matters.
The E2’s composite shell distributes mass evenly, creating a balanced feel on the head. Riders often say that while it isn’t the lightest helmet by the numbers, it feels easier to wear over time. The narrower profile also cuts down on wind drag, reducing strain when checking blind spots or riding in crosswinds. After 400-mile days, owners report noticeably less neck fatigue.
The AT960, while similar in measured weight, feels bulkier. The polycarbonate shell and larger hinge make it more top-heavy. Add the peak, and the helmet tends to catch side gusts and buffet more. For short ADV stints this isn’t a problem, but after several hours at freeway speed, the difference in fatigue compared to the E2 becomes clear.
Verdict: The E2 is easier to live with for long tours. The AT960 works fine for shorter or mixed rides but is more fatiguing over multi-day trips.
Ventilation in Hot Weather
Ventilation is a tradeoff between airflow and sealing.
The E2 offers improved venting over the older E1, with redesigned top intakes and a larger chin vent. On mild days it circulates enough air to stay comfortable, and with the Pinlock 120 installed, visor fogging is rare. But in hot climates, riders report that it runs warmer than open-flow ADV helmets. The same seal that keeps it quiet limits how much air gets through.
The AT960 pushes more air. The large chin vent brings noticeable cooling, and the crown vents feel more open. In extreme heat, owners consistently say they feel cooler than in the Schuberth. The tradeoff is dust and moisture — fine dirt can sneak in during off-road riding, and rain can enter if the chin vent is left open.
Verdict: The AT960 wins in hot, dry environments. The E2 is better for cooler, wet, or mixed conditions where a tighter seal is an advantage.
Visor & Sun Shield Usability
Both helmets are versatile, but with different strengths.
The E2 includes a Pinlock 120 MaxVision insert, the best anti-fog solution available. Riders highlight the wide, fog-free view even in cold or damp weather. The visor action feels precise, sealing firmly against rain. The drop-down sun visor works well, though taller riders sometimes wish it extended slightly lower. Overall, it’s a dependable touring setup.
The AT960 impresses with its wide eye port. The expansive field of view improves peripheral awareness and makes it easy to run goggles. Its sun visor offers good coverage and is popular with dual-sport riders. Where it lags is fog management: Pinlock is optional, not included, and without it, visor misting is common in humid or cold conditions. The visor mechanism is serviceable but not as refined as the Schuberth’s, and rain sealing isn’t as robust.
Verdict: The AT960 gives a better off-road view, but for all-weather touring reliability, the E2’s bundled Pinlock and rain sealing put it ahead.
Comms-Ready Fitment
The E2 is designed around Schuberth’s SC2 (based on the Sena 50S). It comes pre-wired with antenna, speaker pockets, and mic channels, making installation nearly seamless. Sound quality is enhanced by precise speaker positioning, and the integration is so clean it looks factory-built. The catch: the SC2 unit is expensive compared to universal kits.
The AT960 takes a universal approach. It has speaker pockets and space for a mic, and works well with Sena, Cardo, or Scorpion’s EXO-COM (a rebranded Cardo Spirit HD). Installation is straightforward, though riders using larger JBL speakers may need to adjust padding. It’s functional but lacks the polished feel of the Schuberth’s system.
Helmet-integrated system designed for seamless communication and audio on the road.Tailored specifically for ScorpionEXO helmets like the GT930, AT960, and T520,it offers a streamlined fit without external bulk.
- Excellent sound volume and clarity, even at speed—great for music and calls
- Easy install and helmet-ready design that looks built-in
- Intuitive app pairing with firmware updates and settings control
- Mesh intercom range performs reliably with up to four riders
- Mic sensitivity and voice quality reported as weak by some riders
- Limited compatibility—cross-brand intercom linkups not reliably supported
Verdict: The E2 wins if you want seamless, factory-like comms. The AT960 offers flexibility at a lower cost but with less refinement.
Bluetooth integration is becoming standard across the ADV market — we’ve highlighted the best setups in our ADV Helmets with Bluetooth roundup.
Build Quality & Finish
Long-term durability often separates premium from budget.
The E2 feels high-end right out of the box. The paint and graphics are deep, the liner is plush and resilient, and the peak is stable even at freeway speed. The chin bar closes with a solid click, and the visor action feels engineered rather than basic. Owners with multiple Schuberths say they age gracefully, with liners holding shape and hardware still feeling precise after years.
The AT960 is sturdy but more utilitarian. The finish scuffs more easily, and liners are softer but compress faster with use. After a year, some riders notice less snugness and more peak vibration at speed. That said, most accept these compromises at the price point, and Scorpion’s five-year warranty provides solid backing.
Verdict: The E2 delivers a premium feel and long-term consistency. The AT960 is good for the money but shows its budget roots sooner.
Counting Dollars per Feature
If you’re an occasional ADV rider, doing weekend trips or commuting, the Scorpion AT960 gives you nearly all the features you need at a third of the price. You’ll accept more noise and slightly less refined comfort in exchange for $500 saved.
If you’re a serious touring rider, covering thousands of highway miles a year, the Schuberth E2 pays for itself in reduced fatigue, quieter rides, and premium comfort. Over five years of ownership, that cost difference works out to less than $10/month for much more pleasant long-distance touring.
If your budget is the top priority, the AT960 isn’t the only solid option — we’ve rounded up more in our Best Budget Motorcycle Helmets guide.
Other Helmets Worth a Look
Shoei Neotec 3 – Premium modular without a peak. Quieter than most ADV lids, great for touring-focused riders.
A premium modular helmet built for long-distance comfort and low noise, with a smooth flip-up chin bar, tightly-sealing visor and wide drop down sun shade. Fits the SRL3 Sena comms system seamlessly.
- Comfortable wear all day
- Quiet, aerodynamic performance
- Flip-front convenience at stops
- Integrated comms & sun visor
- Faceshield lock is sometimes stiff
- Heavier weight may fatigue neck on long rides
Arai XD-5 – Top-shelf ADV helmet, not modular, but excels in off-road ventilation and peak stability.
The sequel to the legendary XD-4 helmet, this lid improves in every way from its round shell design to its versatility and comfort whether you're thrashing trails or cruising on the highway.
- Quietest ADV helmet
- Removable peak
- Tons of ventilation
- Can use with googles (visor can be removed)
- DOT and Snell approved (ECE in Europe)
- None - one of the best ADV and touring helmets
For a direct comparison of how the Scorpion stacks up against another ADV favorite, see our Arai XD-5 vs Scorpion AT960 breakdown.
HJC RPHA 91 – Lightweight modular with good comfort, priced in the middle at ~$550.
A premium DOT-rated modular helmet combining composite‑shell strength with a smooth flip‑front, quiet ride and adjustable sun visor for long-distance touring comfort.
- Composite PIM Evo shell offers superior impact protection
- Adjustable drop-down sun visor adapts to changing light
- Very quiet for a modular helmet—~96 dB at highway speeds
- Comfortable, plush liner with interchangeable cheek pads
- Slightly heavy compared to lighter modulars
- Chin bar lock can be finicky to operate with gloves
Klim Krios Pro – Carbon ADV helmet with excellent ventilation and MIPS, better for off-road bias than road quietness.
Lightweight adventure helmet with versatility for street, light adventure, and hard enduro riding.
- Carbon fiber shell for ultra-lightweight durability
- Quick release (no tools) shield and visor. Supports goggles.
- Big forehead vent
- Transitions photochromic face shield included
- DOT and ECE 22.06 certified
- Noticeable road noise at high speeds
- Transitions lens can be sluggish entering tunnels
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Schuberth E2 come with a Pinlock?
Yes. The E2 ships with the Pinlock 120 MaxVision insert included in the box, which is the top-tier version. It provides edge-to-edge fog protection and is particularly effective in damp or cold conditions. Riders appreciate that Schuberth bundles this in, as it’s a ~$50 accessory on its own. Once installed, it’s virtually fog-proof even on early morning commutes or mountain passes.
Does the Scorpion AT960 come with a Pinlock?
Not by default. The AT960’s shield is Pinlock-ready, but most retailers sell the insert separately. This means you may need to budget an additional $30–40 depending on where you buy. Without it, riders often report fogging issues in humid or rainy weather. With the insert installed, performance is solid, though not quite as clear or distortion-free as the MaxVision on the Schuberth.
A clear, fog-resistant replacement shield designed for the EXO-AT960, offering easy tool-free swaps and improved daily visibility.
- Prevents fogging with Pinlock-compatible double-pane design
- Easy to install and replace without tools
- DOT-certified for safety and legal compliance
- Enhanced glare control with mirrored tint option
- Doesn't include the Pinlock insert—sold separately
- May struggle in extended rain due to single-seal design
Which helmet is quieter overall?
The Schuberth E2 is significantly quieter. Its wind-tunnel-developed shell, snug neck roll, and well-designed peak all contribute to reduced turbulence. Riders say it’s one of the few ADV helmets they can comfortably use for intercom calls at highway speed without shouting. The Scorpion AT960 is serviceable, but it’s considered average to loud once you get over 60 mph. Earplugs become essential on longer rides.
Can both helmets be ridden with the chin bar up?
Yes. Both helmets are dual homologated (P/J certified), which means they’re legally approved to ride with the chin bar either locked down or flipped up. The E2 feels more stable in the “open” position, thanks to its refined hinge and weight balance. The AT960 can be ridden this way as well, but riders report more wind drag and noise, so it’s better for short, slow-speed stretches rather than long touring miles.
How do the liners feel over time?
The E2’s liner is made from premium materials and has a denser, more supportive feel. It tends to hold its shape well after years of use, and many riders say it stays comfortable for multi-season ownership. The AT960’s liner is softer out of the box and comfortable initially, but it compresses more quickly. After a year of heavy riding, some owners notice hotspots re-emerging as padding breaks down.
Which helmet is better for glasses wearers?
The Scorpion AT960 generally wins here. It has wider eyeglass channels and a more forgiving interior fit, making it easier to slide glasses in and out. The E2’s tighter fit can pinch frames if you don’t size carefully. Riders with narrow or medium-width heads are usually fine, but those with broader temples often prefer the Scorpion for eyewear comfort.
How do they handle rain sealing?
The E2 excels in wet conditions. Its visor seal is robust, with very few reports of water intrusion even in hours-long downpours. The tight neck roll and visor mechanism make it a reliable touring helmet in unpredictable weather. The AT960 does a decent job for light rain, but some riders notice minor leaks around the visor edges in heavy storms. This is a trade-off for its more open ventilation system.
Not sure your comms unit will fit?
Sometimes the perfect helmet comes with a catch—it’s designed around a specific Bluetooth unit. That can make it tough if you prefer something different. With an adapter from Tubs Jackson, you can get a factory fit for any comms units on helmets you actually want to ride in.
Tubs Jackson is a weird name, I know, but I have their adapter in my Nexx X.WED3 helmet and it’s rock solid. Much nicer than reaching way back to where I had the sticky mount before. I wish I’d thought of this idea.
Tip: Get FREE SHIPPING just by buying here or using code BETTERONTHEROAD at checkout.
Wrapping Up…
If you’re mostly pounding out highway miles and want your helmet to disappear in terms of noise and comfort, the Schuberth E2 is the one to splurge on. But if you just want a solid ADV modular that does nearly everything without emptying your wallet, the Scorpion AT960 is hard to beat.
End of the day, it’s less about which one is “better” and more about which one matches how you actually ride.
Best for Quiet Premium Touring
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Best for Budget ADV Modular Use
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A high-performance modular helmet with a handcrafted fiberglass shell reinforced with carbon fiber for lightweight durability. | A do-everything helmet, it's as comfortable on trails as the highway. Shocking for a modular, it's DOT and ECE approved. |
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A high-performance modular helmet with a handcrafted fiberglass shell reinforced with carbon fiber for lightweight durability.
- Superior aerodynamics for reduced wind resistance
- COOLMAX interior for enhanced comfort and breathability
- Integrated Bluetooth-ready design for seamless connectivity
- At highway speeds, the peak may introduce minor buffeting
A do-everything helmet, it's as comfortable on trails as the highway. Shocking for a modular, it's DOT and ECE approved.
- Easy modular convertibility (peak on or off)
- Generous airflow for comfort on long rides
- Dual ECE 22‑06 and DOT safety certification
- Quiet on the highway for an adventure helmet
- Susceptible to visor leaks and fogging in heavy rain
- Sun peak vibrates noticeably at highway speeds
