Choose the Best Sena Helmet for You – Stryker, Impulse, Cavalry, Savage and More
Evan Rally
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Sena is the top motorcycle bluetooth communicator maker in the world – but did you know they also make smart helmets with their devices integrated right in? These helmets come pre-fitted with speakers, microphones, bluetooth connectivity and rider communication.
These helmets bring technology to you, so you don’t have to install it yourself or fiddle with a homemade headphones setup. No bulky, expensive rider communication unit hanging (and potentially flying!) off your helmet. Sena’s helmets also come in at an affordable price with multiple styles to choose from.
But the real question is…
Are Sena helmets good?
Sena helmets are excellent for riders who want to listen to music, make phone calls, hear GPS directions, or speak to other motorcyclists while on a ride. The benefits of an integrated Sena helmet are numerous: cost, comfort, better style and enhanced safety.
- Sena integrated helmets are cheaper than buying a standalone Sena: you’ll save almost half by buying an integrated helmet than installing a unit on another helmet.
- All helmet styles for all riders: Sena sells full face, modular, open face and half helmet styles, each with built-in Sena communication units and audio equipment.
- Emphasis on build quality: Sena outsourced the construction of their helmet lineup likely to MHR (aka LS2) – more on that later. This means a well-built helmet combined with the best in rider communication technology.
Read on to find out which Sena helmet is best for you.
Best Full Face 
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Best Modular 
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Budget Full Face 
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Budget Modular 
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4.6 |
4.3 |
3.5 |
4.2 |
We’ll also talk about the Sena Savage 3/4 helmet and Sena Cavalry half helmet below, but unfortunately both of them were discontinued several years ago. There’s a slim chance you can find them on eBay at the links below.
| Sena Savage | Sena Cavalry |
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| Check on eBay | Check on eBay |
Sena Helmets – Which is Best for You?
We investigated each of Sena’s helmet offerings, scouring websites and forums for reviews plus talking with experts in motorcycle helmet design to get the lowdown on how these helmets perform in key areas:
- Technology
- Comfort, Visor, and Noise
- Safety and Quality
- Looks
As with all our reviews, we aim to give you the information you need to feel confident you’re getting the right helmet for your needs.
Here are the helmets we’ll be going through:
- Sena Stryker and Sena Outforce (Full Face)
- Sena Impulse and Sena Outrush R (Modular)
- Sena Savage (¾, Open Face – discontinued, available while supplies last)
- Sena Cavalry (Half Helmet – discontinued, available while supplies last)
Sena Stryker and Outforce Full Face Helmets
Sena broke up their full face and modular offerings in to two different price points in 2022, giving all riders a suitable option at an affordable price.
The Stryker is the premium full face lid from Sena, featuring Harman Kardon audio, a full fledged Bluetooth 5.0 and Mesh capable communications system, insane 18 hour battery life and even an integrated taillight. The Outforce is a full face option for those on a budget, still sporting a Bluetooth 5.0 unit but without Mesh connectivity or the taillight.
You may still be able to find some of Sena’s older Momentum lineup full face helmets on sale, including:
- EVO just means “evolution” – it’s the newest of the lot, and includes the new Mesh 2.0 communication technology.
- Lite has cheaper technology with only 4 riders able to talk at a time, and only 1 mile range.
- Pro includes an HD camera on top of the helmet – shooting 1080p at 60fps or 1440p at 30fps.
- INC stands for Intelligent Noise Control, Sena’s best noise-cancelling tech.
We’ll go over the Sena Stryker here primarily, and at the end we’ll cover the Outforce and its unique traits. Let’s go through the different areas of these helmets.
Technology
The Stryker sports traditional bluetooth phone connection and bluetooth rider comms, but it also comes with the new Mesh 2.0 communication protocol since the tech in this helmet is based on the Sena 50S standalone unit. This new protocol allows for much greater range and ease of use.
Why use Mesh 2.0 for rider communication?
- Range is almost 4x that of bluetooth
- Connections are ‘self-healing’ – don’t need to re-pair if someone goes out of range and comes back
- Greater number of riders – 16 in a private chat, virtually unlimited in Open Mesh mode
- One Drawback – battery life is about 40% less on Mesh than on Bluetooth
The tech in this helmet is top notch – allowing for full multimedia (GPS, music, calls) via your phone and rider to rider comms via Bluetooth or Mesh 2.0. Your range is up to 2 km (1.2 miles) on bluetooth, and up to 8 km (5 miles) on Mesh. The helmet auto-upgrades thanks to built in WiFi, and the charging cable attaches via magnetic contacts – so you’ll never break your charging if you accidentally pull the helmet while it’s plugged in. The battery holds a whopping 18 hours (11 hrs when using Mesh) and charges to full in just 2.5 hours.
Reviewers say the Harman Kardon speakers and microphone are great quality and well-placed – hidden but effective – and the buttons are seamlessly integrated on the sides of the helmet, each shaped uniquely for easy identification when riding and through gloves. The Advanced Noise Control on this helmet cuts out ambient noise as it elevates in volume, for a smooth audio experience.
Plus, you can modify all the settings through the Sena Motorcycles App – even connect to other brands of intercoms using the Universal Intercom feature. That app can be used as a remote control for the helmet while riding, or you can use your phone’s voice assistant (Siri, Hey Google) to operate your phone while you’re riding.
This is the best technology we’ve seen in an integrated bluetooth helmet to date.
Comfort, Visor, and Noise
The Stryker improves upon the original Momentum helmet with an oval-shaped shell that Sena claims improves comfort and reduces wind noise. Thankfully, reviewers agree, commenting that comfort improves over time as the liners soften to fit the head. Sena also improved ventilation since their last flagship helmet, installing two vents on the side, one on the top, and one at the chin with three exhaust ports at the back. You’ll also get an integrated drop down sun visor in this helmet.
The helmet is still able to maintain low wind noise, with a tight neck roll fit and well-fitted liner isolating the ears. Just like any other modern helmet, the liner can be removed and washed easily.
The visor is wide and tall for great visibility and comes Pinlock-ready, with an anti-fog insert included in the box. One of the only drawbacks on this entire helmet is the visor detents, which allow you to lock the helmet at different heights to let just a little air in. The Stryker only has three positions – fully closed, fully open, and halfway. However, some quick googling and you might find a couple suggestions on how to modify and fix up detents on a helmet.
Safety and Quality
Sena – and whoever they partnered with to make the shell – paid attention to the details here. The helmet is clearly premium, as should be expected from a helmet in this price range. The addition of the customizable taillight on the rear is a very nice safety feature that should be on more lids.
This lid is available DOT certified as standard, but also sports an ECE-rated version for the European market. Keep in mind many retailers are unclear about which version you’re buying – so if you’re interested in the more stringent ECE-rated helmet, make sure you ask the retailer before you buy.
Looks
This helmet isn’t a wild stunner, but it’s simple and clean. You’ll find it available in Matte Black and Glossy White. The helmet’s controls are smoothly integrated in to the lines of the helmet, unlike a bulky add-on bluetooth unit hanging off the side.
Is the Sena Stryker for me?
The Sena Stryker is a great all-around lid – somehow Sena managed to do everything pretty darn well, while keeping the price points affordable, especially considering the top-notch technology integration already packaged in.
If you want to listen to music, get GPS directions, effortlessly make and receive calls, and chat with your fellow riders without sacrificing comfort or letting in a lot of noise – the Sena Stryker is the helmet for you, and it won’t break the bank. Speaking of budget, we found the best price for you – just click below.
What Reviewers and Experts Say about the Sena Stryker
| Pros | Cons |
| Snug fit: a big improvement on the original Momentum lineup of helmets. The shells run a bit small, so go a size up. High quality tech: Sena’s 50S unit, pre-integrated into the Stryker, does it all. Long battery life: A big battery means this helmet will outlast any standalone bluetooth unit. Great price: Super affordable especially considering the tech already integrated. | Visor locking positions: The visor only has one locking position in between up and down positions, though you can fix this at home. |
Sena Outforce – The Budget Answer to the Stryker
The Sena Outforce is Sena’s budget option in the full face category. At less than half the price of the Stryker, the Outforce still supplies you with a great helmet that packs Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity to speak with four riding buddies at one time with a range of 900 meters or 0.6 miles. You get 12 hours of battery time and a sun visor, though you do lose the taillight and some of the extra vents that make the Stryker so comfortable.
If you’re interested in the Outforce, check the link below.
Sena Impulse and Outrush R Modular Helmet Reviews – NEW in 2022
A new helmet from Sena in 2022, the Impulse is Sena’s iteration on their popular Outrush modular helmet (the front lid flips up, making it a ¾ helmet). As with Sena’s other helmets, you’ll get a big battery and slim controls integrated right into a very well-built helmet. This lid is pricey, but you get all the premium features included in the Stryker plus the ability to flip up your chin bar.
Technology
The technology in the Impulse is top notch, with a Bluetooth 5.0 and Mesh system capable of communicating across distances of 2 km or 1.2 miles on Bluetooth and 8 km or 5 miles on Mesh. The sound system and microphone in this lid were designed by Harman Kardon, providing stellar sound quality, reviewers note.
The speakers are well integrated, with a boom mic popping out right in front of your mouth. The helmet charges on the bottom via a magnetic cable, and the battery holds 18 hours of charge with just a 2.5 hour charge time.
Comfort, Visor, and Noise
Reviewers note this helmet satisfies in the comfort department, with a snug neck roll and intermediate oval fit that’s sized for the Western Europe and American markets. You’ll get a Pinlock 120 visor in the box so you can ride in any conditions. You’ll find a top vent and a chin vent on this helmet, providing ample ventilation for a modular.
You also get an internal sun visor with this lid, controlled by a lever on the bottom edge of the left side. Rather than a D ring, this helmet uses a ratchet strap – some people hate it, some love it. The liner can of course be removed and washed – no fiddling with electronics necessary.
Sound management is great according to reviewers – the neck roll seals sound well, leading to clear music and intercom.
Safety and Quality
This helmet checks all the boxes for safety, with DOT certification and multi-density EPS under a composite fiberglass shell. Sena also included a reflective safety patch on the bottom of the liner to ensure you’re seen if you go down. The integrated taillight is an incredibly nice safety feature, ensuring motorists see you from behind. At just 1,760 grams or 3.88 pounds, this helmet is also surprisingly light for a modular.
Looks
This lid is sleek with nice lines along the side. The only indication of the technology hiding within are four buttons on the left side that blend cleanly with the helmet. Just like Sena’s other helmets, you have a choice between Matte Black and Glossy White. You also get the integrated taillight with multiple flashing functions that’s present on Sena’s full face Stryker helmet.
Is the Sena Impulse for me?
If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line modular helmet that allows you to communicate with your group of riders, the Impulse is a perfect fit for you. While the price point is high, it’s still cheaper than buying a comparable helmet and slapping on a similar Bluetooth unit. With that setup, you’ll have less battery life without integrated controls and a taillight. If you’re interested, we found the best price for you – just click the link below.
What Reviewers and Experts Say
| Pros | Cons |
| Snug fit: Keeps out wind noise, stays put comfortably. Top-notch electronics: Bluetooth and Mesh capable, with 18 hours of battery life and an integrated taillight. Venting: Many modulars don’t vent well – this one is stellar, even in hot climates. | Unique charging cord: While Sena’s magnetic charging cord is very nice, if you lose it you’ll need to order another one from Sena. |
Sena Outrush R – The Budget Answer to the Impulse
If you’re mainly interested in speaking with a passenger or small group of riders, or just having music, GPS, phone calls, voice control and FM radio all integrated into a modular helmet, look to the Outrush R. At half the price of the Impulse, the Outrush R still performs as a helmet while giving you a solid Bluetooth 5.0 system. What you’ll miss is the well-reviewed Harman Kardon speakers and microphone, the taillight, and the Mesh connectivity of the Impulse. However, the price can’t be beat!
Sena Savage Open Face Helmet Review
Note: Sena has discontinued the Savage in 2022, so you’ll need to act fast if you want to get one before supplies run out! We recommend checking out the Stryker, Outforce, and Impulse by Sena if you’re looking for a good bluetooth helmet. They don’t have the same classic look as the Savage, but they are capable helmets.
Sena’s open face helmet with built-in bluetooth system is a great choice for riders who want a classic look without sacrificing entertainment and rider communication. Nothing ruins the look of a classic helmet on a beautiful custom bike like a big communicator hanging off the edge – the Savage does away with that by fitting everything you need inside a seamless shell.
Technology
This helmet’s tech is all-around solid, providing almost 12 hours of battery life for music streaming and intercom. The Savage supports 4 riders connected at once, with a range of just over half a mile, or about 1 km. One expert said ‘the Savage was among the best I’ve tried when it came to range’.
The microphone is actually hidden up in the brow of the helmet, and as long as there is either consistent or low wind noise (no buffeting wind), Sena’s technology does a great job cutting through wind for clear voice commands and intercom even at highway speeds.
Settings can be tweaked in the Sena Utility App, as with all Sena helmets, giving you more granular control over sound quality and connections.
What Reviewers and Experts Say
| Pros | Cons |
| Microphone quality: We have no idea how the wizards at Sena managed to get such clear sound out of a mic mounted 6 inches above the rider’s mouth, but they did. Half off price! Since Sena discontinued this helmet, all retailers have discounted their existing stock massively. | Safety: Just by nature of a half helmet, this isn’t the safest lid. |
Comfort, Visor, and Noise
Coming in two shell sizes, this helmet fits most riders well. Sena packs two clip-on peaks with the Savage to offer some sun protection, but no drop-down sun visor in this lid. Noise management is stellar according to reviewers, even for an open face helmet.
Safety and Quality
While an open face is less safe than a full face, the Savage is DOT certified with a slightly pricier ECE certified version available in the European market. The build quality is stellar – a seamless lid with a solid jog dial, waterproof electronics, and strong D-ring strap.
Looks
Similar to Sena’s other models, you have a choice of Matte Black or Glossy White for this lid. The included clip-on peaks give you some style customization. The jog dial for controlling the tech in this helmet is nicely integrated on the left side – looking much better than a clip-on unit.
And of course, no boom mic! Incredible that Sena achieved great sound quality without a big mic hanging out front.
Is the Sena Savage for me?
If you want a stylish and safe lid for a cafe race or classic bike, the Savage has you covered. With great mic technology and an extensible clip-on visor system, you won’t be disappointed with this lid. Unfortunately, Sena discontinued this helmet in 2022 – however, you can still find it on eBay with a few popping up on Amazon from time to time. We’ve linked to eBay below, since they’re more reliable.
What Reviewers and Experts Say
| Pros | Cons |
| Great style: If you want comms on an open face, no other helmet is going to look as good as this integrated lid. Intuitive jog dial: The jog dial makes for easy on-helmet controls with a gloved hand, without interrupting the look of the helmet. Microphone quality: Clear sound without any boom mic! | No lock for goggles strap: If you wear goggles with the Savage, you might want to add something to the back to hold that strap firmly in place. |
Sena Cavalry Half Helmet Review
The Sena Cavalry is a half-helmet style with integrated comms, done incredibly well. Keep in mind Sena has discontinued this lid, so supplies are running out. However, you can still find it on eBay – both new and used!
Technology
In the Cavalry, you get a Bluetooth 4.1 enabled unit supporting 4 rider intercom over 0.5 miles / 800 meters. Of course you also get all the functionality of your phone – music, GPS, phone calling – with voice control. Plus, 10 hours of battery life.
The best part of the tech in this lid is how Sena managed to get clear audio on a half helmet without any boom mics. Reviews from Revzilla to motorcycle bloggers comment on the impressively clear mic and speaker sound, even though the mic is integrated into the brow of the helmet. The speakers come with ear cups and pads to isolate your ears from the wind.
You can also pair this helmet to your bike’s infotainment system. To pair with a Harley, you’ll need Sena’s Freewire Bluetooth device or Harley’s version of this helmet, called the Boom! Audio N01.
Comfort and Noise
As a half helmet, the Cavalry comes in lightweight and without any visor. The included ear cups and pads help cut down on noise and make music and intercom clear to the rider’s ears. The D-ring strap connects on the left side, leading to a seamless strap under the chin.
Safety and Quality
Half helmets aren’t the safest lids by design, but the Cavalry does come with a basic DOT certification. Reviewers report build quality as solid, everything from the small lip visor at the front to the straps and electronics.
Looks
This is a clean and simple half helmet, with very low-profile buttons on the left side. Comes only in Matte Black or Glossy Black, befitting of the type of rider that usually sports this kind of lid.
Is the Sena Cavalry for me?
If you’re looking for a quality half helmet and want the integrated comms and multimedia system, this is the one. Sena discontinued this unit, so if this is your kind of helmet, take advantage of the inventory-clearing prices and pick one up on eBay.
FAQs about Sena Helmets
How much is a Sena helmet?
Sena helmets are surprisingly affordable, especially when compared to the cost of buying a similar-quality helmet and integrating a Sena unit on top. Prices range from $175 (for the Cavalry half helmet) to $500+ for the Stryker or Impulse full face and modular helmets.
Compare that to integrating a $200 – $400 Sena unit on to a $200 – $400 helmet from Shoei, Arai, or Bell – and you’re getting something like a 50% discount along with better sound sealing and no bulky unit hanging off your helmet!
Who manufactures Sena helmets?
Sena keeps this quiet – neither Sena nor any of their retailers commented on this when contacted about it. Some reviewers of Sena helmets speculate it could be HJC, another Korean company, or a Chinese company called MHR judging by the look.
My bet is on MHR, which also owns and manufactures the popular LS2 brand. Why? Sena’s flagship bluetooth helmet line used to be under the name “Momentum” and Revzilla casually mentions that “Sena collaborated with LS2 on the Momentum series of helmets” on a replacement face shield page. Another retailer selling visors for the LS2 FF397 helmet mentions that they’re also compatible with the Sena Momentum, calling it model MHR-80. Take a peek at the FF397 vs the Sena Momentum – very similar style.
How do you use the Sena app for bluetooth helmets?
The Sena Utility app available for Android and iOS allows you to modify settings on your Sena helmet after pairing the helmet to your smartphone. From the app, you can:
- Easily manage group intercom – it makes pairing a breeze with a QR-code scan system.
- Save favorite intercom groups – no fussing about before your rides, just join up with one tap and go.
- Set speed dial numbers
- Set your favorite FM radio stations
- Read the full user’s guide on your helmet