Carbon Fiber Modular Helmets: Ultimate Flip-Up Lids
Evan Rally
Updated: November 30, 2025
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Looking for a helmet that lets you chat at the stoplight, sip water on a long ride, and still gives you top-shelf protection when you’re ripping through the mountains? That’s the promise of a carbon fiber modular helmet. You get flip-up convenience, lightweight strength, and premium comfort—but not all carbon modulars are created equal.
Carbon fiber modular helmets spark debate. Some claim they’re no quieter than polycarbonate lids, yet top models boast lower decibel levels than many full-face helmets. Others argue flip-up mechanisms add weight, but the lightest carbon modulars come in lighter than composite full-faces. Many dismiss modulars as gimmicky, yet touring and commuting riders swear they’ll never go back to a fixed chin bar.
I’ll share the best carbon modular helmets for different riding styles, tested through sweltering traffic, mountain passes, and long-haul tours.
Quick Picks: Our Top 3 Carbon Modular Helmets
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Description: A premium modular helmet with handcrafted carbon fiber construction, cutting-edge ventilation, and integrated communication system compatibility. | Description: Features a secure visor system, 3-step sunshield with dark smoke lens, washable pads, and Bluetooth-ready design for comfort and convenience on every ride. | Description: A premium flip-back modular helmet made from full carbon with a 180° rotating chin bar, delivering both open-face freedom and full-face safety with top ventilation and sharp optics. |
Pros:
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Cons:
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Description:
A premium modular helmet with handcrafted carbon fiber construction, cutting-edge ventilation, and integrated communication system compatibility.
Pros:
- Ultra-light
- HD speakers
- Mod chinbar
- Very quiet
Cons:
- Few shell sizes
- Delicate latch
Description:
Features a secure visor system, 3-step sunshield with dark smoke lens, washable pads, and Bluetooth-ready design for comfort and convenience on every ride.
Pros:
- Excellent noise control
- Premium carbon shell
- Adjustable sun visor
- Integrated speaker pockets
Cons:
- Slightly heavy
- Chin-bar seals tight
Description:
A premium flip-back modular helmet made from full carbon with a 180° rotating chin bar, delivering both open-face freedom and full-face safety with top ventilation and sharp optics.
Pros:
- Light carbon
- 180° flip-up
- Pinlock incl.
- Comfy liners
Cons:
- Seal wears
- Some wind noise
Now let’s dive into the top picks and see how they perform.
Best Carbon Modular Helmets for Long-Distance Touring
Schuberth C5 Carbon — Touring Serenity in a Handcrafted Shell
Why it stands out
Hand-built by the same technicians who craft Schuberth’s Formula 1 helmets, the C5 Carbon uses an autoclave process that squeezes air pockets out of the carbon layers to maximize strength and minimize weight. At 85 dB(A) at 62 mph, it’s astonishingly quiet for a flip-up lid. That means less fatigue, clearer music and easier conversations with your passenger.
What makes the C5 Carbon unique is not just the shell. Schuberth redesigned the entire ventilation system with a double chin intake and a new back spoiler that channels air along uncovered EPS channels inside the helmet. The interior is customizable: Schuberth’s “Individual Concept” lets you order different thicknesses of cheek pads and liners to tailor the fit. The chin bar opens easily with one hand and features a visor memory function that remembers the visor position after you flip the helmet up.
Benefits for you
If you’re racking up serious highway miles, the C5 Carbon’s quietness directly translates to less fatigue. You arrive fresher with less neck strain. The pre-wired SC2 intercom makes installation plug-and-play—no messy external mounts.
The visor memory function is genuinely useful: crack the visor for airflow, flip up the chin bar at a gas stop, and when you close it, the visor returns to that cracked position automatically. Less fiddling, more riding.
The downside? At around 1,650 g, it’s heavier than some carbon modulars because of its robust chin bar and integrated electronics. The silver lining: that heft delivers unmatched stability at speed and contributes to the serene 85 dB(A) quietness.
Schuberth C5 Carbon Helmet
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A premium modular helmet with handcrafted carbon fiber construction, cutting-edge ventilation, and integrated communication system compatibility.
Pros:
- Ultra-lightweight, hand-built carbon shell for maximum strength
- Integrated HD speakers and antennas supporting Sena SC2 system
- Modular chinbar
- One of the quietest modulars
Cons:
- Shell options limited to two sizes—fit gaps between sizes can be large
- Chin bar locking tab feels delicate and may require care when using
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Our Review: We did a deep dive into the C5 after five months of riding with it, including a cheap fix for a visor drop issue. Read our Schuberth C5 review for the full story.
Best Carbon Modular Helmets for Commuting and Everyday Riding
HJC RPHA 91 Carbon — Everyday Comfort Meets Touring Value
Why it stands out
HJC’s RPHA 91 Carbon pushes modular design forward with an Advanced P.I.M. EVO shell that blends carbon fiber, aramid and natural fiber for enhanced shock resistance. HJC sculpted the shell for aerodynamic stability, so you feel less drag and buffeting when the chin bar is closed. There’s also a smooth mechanical action when opening or closing the chin bar—great when you want to chat with toll booth attendants without fumbling.
Ventilation is serious business on this helmet. The RPHA 91 Carbon has five intake vents and seven exhaust vents to channel air around your head. HJC includes a three-position internal sun shield that you can drop with a sliding lever—perfect for when you exit a tunnel into bright light. The face shield is Pinlock-ready and comes with the insert lens in the box. A moisture-wicking, antibacterial liner keeps sweat at bay, and the cheek pads are removable and washable.
Benefits for you
If you split time between commuting and touring and want plush comfort without premium pricing, the RPHA 91 Carbon delivers. The cushioned ride feels more like a full-face than a budget modular. Multiple vents keep you cool in stop-and-go traffic, while the antibacterial liner stays fresh after daily use.
The three-position sun shield adapts to changing light—halfway for low sun, fully down for highway glare, or completely up for night riding. Perfect for commuters.
At around 1,720 g, it’s heavier than pure carbon options due to thicker padding. The upside: superior cushioning that’s worth the extra grams if comfort matters more than weight savings.
HJC RPHA 91 Carbon Helmet
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RPHA 91 Carbon offers a smooth visor system, 3-step sunshield, dark smoke insert, comfy washable pads, and seamless Bluetooth-ready integration.
Pros:
- Smooth visor
- Great sunshade
- Comfy liner
- Intercom ready
Cons:
- Pricey
- A bit heavy
We may earn commissions if you make a purchase.
Our Review: While we haven’t published a standalone review of the RPHA 91 Carbon yet, we compared it head-to-head with the Schuberth C5. Read our C5 vs RPHA 91 comparison for the full story.
Best Carbon Modular Helmets for Urban and Mixed-Terrain Riding
LS2 Advant X Carbon — Flip-Back Freedom for City and Touring Rides
Why it stands out
Think of the LS2 Advant X Carbon as the Swiss Army Knife of helmets. With a 180° flip-back mechanism, the chin bar swings all the way behind the shell and locks in place so you can legally ride with the front open—perfect for scorching city streets or sipping a drink at a gas stop. Unlike many flip-back helmets that feel wobbly when open, the Advant X uses a fixed pivot that keeps the assembly secure and stable.
LS2 builds the shell and chin bar from 6K carbon fiber to keep weight down to around 1,470 g (3.24 lb). That’s lighter than many polycarbonate modulars and reduces neck strain when you’re stuck in traffic or doing U-turns. The A-class polycarbonate visor is Pinlock-ready and LS2 includes the insert lens. There’s also a built-in sun shield that slides down when the sun glares.
Benefits for you
The Advant X solves a major problem for city riders: genuine full-face protection when you need it, open-face freedom when you don’t—all in one helmet. The dual P/J homologation means you’re legally covered with the chin bar up or down, which is rare in modulars.
At 1,470 g, it’s significantly lighter than the Schuberth or HJC, making a real difference on long days. The emergency release cheek pads let first responders remove the helmet safely. The micrometric quick-release chin strap adds convenience.
The flip-back design has slightly less lateral stability at very high speeds—you can feel air catch the chin bar when it’s flipped back. The silver lining: LS2’s multi-port ventilation keeps airflow steady whether the chin bar is up or down.
LS2 Advant X Carbon Helmet
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A premium flip-back modular helmet made from full carbon with a 180° rotating chin bar, delivering both open-face freedom and full-face safety with top ventilation and sharp optics.
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight carbon shell (~1470 g)
- 180° chin bar flips fully rearward for open-face mode
- Pinlock insert included with clear visor optics
- Comfortable fit with removable washable liners
Cons:
- Visor seal may wear if left open often
- Slight wind noise at higher speeds
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Our Review: We’ve highlighted the LS2 Advant X in our article on the lightest modular helmets. Read about the lightest modular helmets for more details.
Best Carbon Modular Helmet for Classic Cruiser Style
Simpson Mod Bandit Carbon — Iconic Looks with Modern Convenience
Why it stands out
Simpson helmets have been a staple of the custom and cruiser scene for decades, known for their aggressive, drag-racer styling. The Mod Bandit Carbon brings that look to a flip-up helmet. The shell is made from 100% carbon fiber, keeping weight down while maintaining strength and giving the helmet a distinctive weave pattern.
Inside, the helmet features a drop-down internal sun visor, integrated speaker and microphone pockets for comms systems, and a removable antibacterial liner. The face shield removes without tools so you can swap tints quickly, and dual adjustable chin vents plus top and rear ventilation help manage airflow. It’s DOT approved, so you can legally ride in the US.
Benefits for you
If you love aggressive Bandit styling and want carbon construction in a modular, the Mod Bandit Carbon is unique. The 100% carbon shell keeps weight around 1,600 g while delivering that distinctive Simpson look. Tool-free shield removal makes it easy to switch between clear and tinted visors.
The integrated speaker pockets keep comms systems clean and tucked away. The removable antibacterial liner stays fresh and washes easily.
Two catches: Simpson helmets run narrow, so wider heads may feel cramped. Second, the Mod Bandit Carbon is hard to find in stock—you may need to hunt. The silver lining: if you can snag one, you’ll have a unique helmet that stands out. The narrow fit works great for intermediate-oval or long-oval head shapes.
Our Review: We haven’t reviewed the Mod Bandit Carbon yet, but we’ve covered Simpson helmets in our best Harley helmets guide.
Comparison Table
Below is a quick reference comparing the four carbon modular helmets featured in this guide.
| Helmet | Shell & Construction | Approx. Weight | Key Features | Best For |
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| Schuberth C5 Carbon | Handmade carbon, autoclave-cured | ~1,650 g | 85 dB(A) quiet; SC2 pre-wired; visor memory; dual P/J cert | Long-distance touring |
| HJC RPHA 91 Carbon | Carbon-aramid-natural fiber P.I.M. EVO | ~1,720 g | 12 total vents; 3-position sun shield; Pinlock included | Commuting & touring value |
| LS2 Advant X Carbon | 6K carbon, 180° flip-back | ~1,470 g | Dual P/J homologation; emergency release pads; lightest | City & mixed-terrain |
| Simpson Mod Bandit Carbon | 100% carbon fiber | ~1,600 g | Tool-free shield; speaker pockets; Bandit styling | Cruiser style & classic look |
Weights vary by size. All helmets are DOT certified; some have additional ECE ratings.
Buying Guide: Choosing Your Carbon Modular Helmet
Safety First
Look for DOT and the latest ECE 22.06 certifications to make sure your modular helmet meets current impact and rotational standards. Dual P/J homologation (like on the LS2 Advant X) is a big plus—it means the helmet has been tested and approved to be worn both with the chin bar locked down and in the open position, giving you more confidence when you ride in “jet” mode.
Shell material also matters. Full carbon shells like the Schuberth C5 Carbon and Simpson Mod Bandit Carbon offer maximum weight savings and a very stiff structure, which can reduce neck fatigue on long days.
Carbon blends and composite shells, like the HJC RPHA 91, aim for a sweet spot between cost, strength, and comfort, bringing you much of the weight advantage of carbon without pushing the price into the very top tier.
Fit Matters
Try helmets on whenever possible to confirm fit before you buy. Schuberth and HJC tend to suit intermediate-oval head shapes, while Simpson helmets often run narrower and can feel tight on wider heads. If you’re between sizes, spending time dialing in the fit will pay off in long-term comfort and safety.
Beyond shape, look for safety and comfort details like emergency-release cheek pads (as found on LS2) and multiple shell sizes with customizable padding, such as Schuberth’s Individual Concept. These features help you get a more precise fit instead of relying on thick foam alone.
Moisture-wicking, antibacterial liners are also worth prioritizing—they stay fresher on daily rides and make the helmet more pleasant to wear in hot, humid conditions.
Ventilation and Noise
The Schuberth C5 Carbon leads at around 85 dB(A), thanks to carefully tuned wind-tunnel aerodynamics that help reduce buffeting and whistling at highway speeds. That makes it a strong choice for riders who spend a lot of time on the freeway and want to arrive less fatigued. The HJC RPHA 91 counters with twelve vents that keep air moving steadily through the shell.
For riders in hot, stop-and-go cities, the LS2 Advant X really shines because you can flip it into open-face mode when you’re stuck in traffic or cruising at low speeds, then lock it back down for full protection on the highway. That flexibility can be a genuine game changer if your rides blend urban errands with weekend escapes.
Whatever you choose, pairing any of these helmets with a set of quality earplugs is still smart for all-day touring—it protects your hearing, reduces fatigue, and lets you enjoy the ride instead of just enduring the wind.
Budget Reality
Carbon modulars typically run from around $600 up to $1,500 or more, so it’s important to understand what you’re paying for. The Schuberth C5 Carbon sits at the premium end of that range and largely justifies it with outstanding noise control, a refined shell shape, and top-tier build quality that feels purpose-built for long-distance touring.
The HJC RPHA 91 Carbon comes in at a more approachable price point yet still delivers excellent value with a lightweight shell, solid comfort, and a well-rounded feature set. LS2’s Advant X Carbon targets riders who want versatility at a true mid-range price, offering a flip-front design that works for both city and highway riding.
Simpson’s Mod Bandit Carbon usually costs less than the big touring names and brings that aggressive Simpson styling, but availability can be limited by region and size, making it more of a niche option than an easy grab off the shelf.
Final Thoughts
Carbon fiber modular helmets deliver flip-up convenience without sacrificing protection. They let you chat at stoplights and cool off without removing your lid, while providing serious crash protection when locked down. The real value shows in comfort, noise reduction and thoughtful details you appreciate after hours on the road.
For long-haul tourers seeking ultimate quiet, the Schuberth C5 Carbon is unmatched. Commuters and value-conscious riders will love the HJC RPHA 91 Carbon. Urban explorers need the flip-back freedom of the LS2 Advant X Carbon. And riders who crave the aggressive Bandit styling should hunt for the Simpson Mod Bandit Carbon.
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Description: A premium modular helmet with handcrafted carbon fiber construction, cutting-edge ventilation, and integrated communication system compatibility. | Description: Features a secure visor system, 3-step sunshield with dark smoke lens, washable pads, and Bluetooth-ready design for comfort and convenience on every ride. | Description: A premium flip-back modular helmet made from full carbon with a 180° rotating chin bar, delivering both open-face freedom and full-face safety with top ventilation and sharp optics. |
Pros:
| Pros:
| Pros:
|
Cons:
| Cons:
| Cons:
|
Description:
A premium modular helmet with handcrafted carbon fiber construction, cutting-edge ventilation, and integrated communication system compatibility.
Pros:
- Ultra-light
- HD speakers
- Mod chinbar
- Very quiet
Cons:
- Few shell sizes
- Delicate latch
Description:
Features a secure visor system, 3-step sunshield with dark smoke lens, washable pads, and Bluetooth-ready design for comfort and convenience on every ride.
Pros:
- Excellent noise control
- Premium carbon shell
- Adjustable sun visor
- Integrated speaker pockets
Cons:
- Slightly heavy
- Chin-bar seals tight
Description:
A premium flip-back modular helmet made from full carbon with a 180° rotating chin bar, delivering both open-face freedom and full-face safety with top ventilation and sharp optics.
Pros:
- Light carbon
- 180° flip-up
- Pinlock incl.
- Comfy liners
Cons:
- Seal wears
- Some wind noise
Remember: a helmet that fits well, meets safety standards and matches your riding style is your best friend on two wheels.
