Schuberth C5 vs EXO-GT930: Touring & Daily Comparison
Evan Rally
Updated: August 31, 2025
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You know how modular helmets are kind of the sweet spot—they let you flip open the front like an open-face but still give you the protection of a full-face? Well, the Schuberth C5 is pretty much the gold standard if you want the quietest, most comfortable ride money can buy. On the flip side, the Scorpion EXO-GT930 gives you a lot of the same convenience without draining your wallet.
In this comparison, I’ll walk you through how they stack up for long rides and daily commuting—looking at the usual suspects: weight, comfort, noise, ventilation, visor setup, comms compatibility, and whether the extra cash for the C5 really makes sense.
We’ve also rounded up the best modular helmets of 2025 if you’re weighing other options alongside these two.
Quick Take: Who Each Helmet Is Really For
Buy Schuberth C5 if…
- You prioritize a quiet ride and reduced fatigue on long highway slogs; Schuberth’s wind‑tunnel‑developed shell and plush neck roll keep noise remarkably low for a modular.
- Weight and balanced feel matter more than price; the C5’s DFP fiberglass/basalt shell keeps the size‑L helmet around 3.8 lbs, lighter than most modulars in its class.
- Integrated communications and premium finishes are important; the C5 comes prewired with FM and Bluetooth antennas and speakers and uses high‑grade materials in the liner, visor and locking mechanisms.
Schuberth C5 Helmet
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SC2 Custom Sena System
The quietest touring helmet money can buy, kitted out with all the features you expect for those long days in the saddle.
Pros:
- Modular flip up chin bar
- Drop down sun visor
- Space for integrated comms unit
- Many colorway options
- DOT certified, with ECE in EU
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If you want a deeper dive into its long-term performance, check out our Schuberth C5 five-month review.
Buy Scorpion EXO‑GT930 if…
- Budget is your main factor; the GT930’s $275–$300 street price makes it one of the most affordable P/J‑certified modulars.
- You want a versatile helmet that converts to an open‑face or ADV‑style lid; the GT930 includes an off‑road‑style peak and quickly removable chin bar.
- You don’t ride high mileage at sustained highway speeds and can tolerate more wind noise and weight; the polycarbonate shell weighs ~4 lbs and owners note moderate noise.
Scorpion EXO-GT930
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Versatile modular helmet that quickly converts to a 3/4 open face with an internal sun visor and removable peak—offering comfort, ventilation, and hands-free Bluetooth readiness.
Pros:
- Quick, tool-free conversion from full-face to open-face for riding flexibility
- Internal SpeedView sun visor and anti-fog faceshield keep vision clear on the move
- Dual DOT/ECE P/J homologation ensures legal and safe use in both configurations
- Washable KwikWick liner and good ventilation maintain comfort on long rides
Cons:
- A bit heavier than average modular helmets; may cause neck fatigue on longer rides
- Ventilation is solid at speed but can feel limited in stop-and-go traffic
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The C5 is worth spending roughly $450–$500 more if you care most about low noise, lighter weight and integrated comms. The GT930 offers huge versatility and value but trades refinement.
Side-by-Side Snapshot: C5 vs GT930
| Specs | Schuberth C5 | Scorpion EXO‑GT930 |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | ~3.8 lbs (1780 g for M–L); two shell sizes. | ~4.0 lbs (≈1890 g); three shell sizes. |
| Fit/Shape | Intermediate oval; Schuberth’s “Individual” program offers optional pads to tune fit. | Intermediate oval with Scorpion’s AirFit cheek‑pad pump to fine‑tune fit. |
| Shell/Materials | DFP (direct‑fiberglass processing) glass fiber with a basalt layer; dual‑density EPS. | Advanced polycarbonate shell with dual‑density EPS. |
| Safety/Cert | Dual certification: DOT and the more demanding ECE 22.06 for Europe; P/J homologation; double‑D ring strap. | ECE 22.05 and DOT; P/J (open‑face and full‑face) certification. |
| Ventilation/Weatherproofing | Double chin intake with replaceable filter, multi‑channel top ventilation, large rear extractor and chin‑bar lock allowing a “city position” for slight airflow. | Dual‑position top vent, strong chin intake and large exhaust ports; includes Everclear anti‑fog visor and integrated drop‑down sun visor. |
| Electronics | Preinstalled speakers and antennas ready for Schuberth SC2 or Cardo/Sena units; optional plug‑and‑play comms mount. | EXO‑COM ready; pockets for speakers and battery, but comms kit sold separately. |
| Warranty | 5 years (manufacturer limited). | 5 years limited. |
| Street Price (Aug 2025) | $750–$800 (solids) to $850+ for graphics. | $275–$300 depending on color/graphic. |
Which Rider Are You? Match Your Helmet
Choose the Schuberth C5 for touring and daily rides if you want:
- Quiet ride: multiple reviewers and owners highlight that the C5’s aerodynamic shell and new neck‑roll concept make it one of the quietest modular helmets; independent tests record around 85 dBA at 100 km/h and many riders can hear their comms clearly without cranking the volume.
- Reduced weight & less fatigue: at around 3.8 lbs it’s lighter than most modular helmets, making long days more comfortable.
- Premium fit and materials: the DFP shell, multi‑density EPS and plush antibacterial liner offer a snug yet comfortable fit; optional pads allow head‑shape fine‑tuning.
- Integrated comms: built‑in FM and Bluetooth antennas plus preinstalled speakers mean less hassle and cleaner installation.
- Refined visor operation: patented memory mechanism keeps the visor at the last open position; the ratcheting sun visor slider is smooth and easy to reach even with gloves.
- High safety margin: dual P/J certification and ECE 22.06 approval provide confidence on long tours and high‑speed travel.
Choose the Scorpion EXO‑GT930 if you want:
- Budget‑friendly modular: with street pricing around $275–$300, the GT930 brings flip‑up convenience to many riders who can’t justify premium pricing.
- Versatility in one helmet: the removable chin bar allows use as a full‑face or an open‑face; Scorpion includes an ADV‑style peak visor in the box for off‑road or summer touring.
- Customizable fit: the AirFit cheek‑pad inflation system lets you pump air to snug up the cheeks when you want a tighter fit, useful for high‑speed sections or when the pads compress over time.
- Strong ventilation & wide field of view: riders praise the effective chin intake and the expansive face shield; the drop‑down SpeedView sun visor provides convenient sun protection.
- Solid value for commuting or occasional tours: if you ride moderate distances and value features over absolute quietness and weight, the GT930 delivers a comfortable, feature‑rich helmet at a fraction of the price.
Voices from the Road: Rider Praise & Gripes
Schuberth C5
- Outstanding noise isolation; quiet even at highway speeds with visor cracked
- Plush, removable liner and optional pad kits give wide fit adjustment range
- Ventilation generally positive: strong chin vent, helpful top vent, but slider can be tricky with gloves
- Integrated sun visor praised for clarity and fast action; occasional slip issue noted (with fix available)
- Modular mechanism feels solid; secure “city” position possible with chin bar
- Regarded as the benchmark for comfort and quietness in modular helmets
Scorpion EXO‑GT930
- Highly versatile: detachable chin bar and included peak convert it to adventure style
- Strong chin ventilation; top vent could flow more air in heat
- Fit is average to slightly narrow; AirFit pump adjusts cheek pressure only
- Heavier at ~4 lbs; some riders report neck fatigue on long freeway rides
- Noise levels moderate: quieter than budget open-face, louder than premium modulars
- Build quality good for price; shield mechanism less refined and sun visor doesn’t drop as low
- Everclear anti-fog coating and Pinlock-ready shield praised for clarity in cold or wet weather
Rider Priorities: How They Stack Up Side by Side
Noise & Aerodynamics
Schuberth invests heavily in wind‑tunnel testing, and it shows. The C5’s smooth shell, rear spoiler and redesigned neck roll create a very quiet helmet; testers measure around 85 dBA at highway speeds, which rivals many full‑face helmets. The cheek pads and neck curtain seal well and the memory visor mechanism prevents whistling when partially open.
Scorpion’s GT930 has a larger shell and more openings; the polycarbonate shell flexes slightly at speed and the chin bar mechanism creates more turbulence. Owners generally rate noise as acceptable for urban rides but loud enough on the freeway to require earplugs.
If you regularly ride long distances above 60 mph and value quiet, the C5 wins decisively.
Weight & Fatigue
At roughly 3.8 lbs, the C5 is lighter than most modular helmets thanks to the DFP fiberglass/basalt shell. The weight difference may seem small on paper, but after hours in the saddle it reduces neck fatigue.
The GT930 tips the scales close to 4 lbs and its weight is higher up because of the detachable chin bar design. Riders with strong neck muscles or shorter commutes might not notice the difference, but for touring or long commutes the C5 feels less taxing.
Ventilation & Climate Control
Both helmets provide adequate airflow for varied climates. The C5’s dual chin vents with removable filter and multi‑channel EPS deliver good ventilation when fully open, and the rear extractor ensures warm air exits efficiently. However, the top vent slider is flush with the shell and can be fiddly with thick gloves.
The GT930’s chin vent is particularly effective and feeds the visor’s anti‑fog system, while the top vent is easier to operate and offers two positions. During summer rides the GT930 flows more air when fully open, but in colder weather the C5’s snug seal and replaceable filter keep drafts and dust out better.
Visor & Sun Shield Functionality
The C5 uses a Pinlock‑ready clear shield with a patented memory mechanism. When you lift the visor, it remembers the last cracked position and returns there, useful for incremental venting. The drop‑down sun visor slides smoothly with Schuberth’s V‑lock system and offers generous coverage without distorting vision.
The GT930’s Everclear face shield and SpeedView sun visor are also anti‑fog and UV‑treated, but the visor doesn’t lock in as many incremental positions and some owners say the sun visor could extend lower. Scorpion provides a quick‑release mechanism for switching between the clear shield and the included peak for ADV riding, a flexibility the C5 lacks.
Fit & Comfort
Schuberth builds the C5 in two shell sizes, and its interior features a new EPS foam with variable densities for improved impact management. The plush, moisture‑wicking liner is removable and washable, and optional “Individual” pads allow you to adjust crown height and cheek‑pad thickness. Most riders find the fit intermediate‑oval leaning slightly narrow.
The GT930 is produced in three shell sizes; the AirFit system lets you adjust cheek‑pad pressure via a small pump. The interior uses Scorpion’s KwikWick C fabric, which is moisture‑wicking and easy to remove. The overall fit is intermediate‑oval to slightly rounder. Comfort is good, but the extra weight and narrower eye port may cause more fatigue on extended rides.
Comms & Tech Integration
One of the C5’s standout advantages is its integrated electronics infrastructure. It comes with preinstalled speakers and antennas for FM radio and Bluetooth, along with a dedicated port for Schuberth’s SC2 or third‑party comms modules. Wiring and installation are clean and hidden.
The GT930 is EXO‑COM ready, meaning it has pockets for speakers and battery and channels for wires, but you must purchase the EXO‑COM or another system separately; installation requires removing cheek pads and may result in external modules protruding.
ScorpionEXO EXO-COM
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$209.95
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.
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08/31/2025 04:01 am GMT
For riders who prioritize seamless comms integration, the C5 is easier and more elegant.
Build Quality & Finish
Premium materials separate these helmets. The C5’s glass‑fiber shell, stainless‑steel chin‑bar mechanism and high‑quality painted or matte finishes look and feel upscale. All mechanisms operate smoothly, and small touches like reflective panels on the neck roll add safety.
The GT930’s polycarbonate shell and plastic pivot parts are well made for the price but not as refined. Paint quality is good though less durable, and some owners notice slight flex in the chin bar when pressed.
Warranty coverage is 5 years for both, but the C5’s higher price also supports better quality control.
Spend Smart: What Premium Buys You Here
Street prices for the C5 typically range $750–$800 for solid colors and about $850 for graphic versions. Scorpion’s EXO‑GT930 retails for $275–$300.
The price difference of roughly $450–$500 buys you several tangible benefits:
- Noise reduction: the C5 is noticeably quieter, which matters on long rides; reducing fatigue and improving comms clarity.
- Weight savings & comfort: about 0.2 lbs difference may not sound like much, but the C5’s lower centre of gravity makes it feel lighter and more balanced.
- Integrated tech: built‑in antennas and speakers mean you only need to plug in a module, saving time and preserving aesthetics.
- Higher safety standard: the C5 meets ECE 22.06, one of the world’s strictest helmet standards, whereas the GT930 is certified to ECE 22.05.
- Premium materials & finish: from the visor mechanism to the liner fabric, everything feels higher‑end.
For riders who log thousands of kilometers per year or place a premium on quietness and comfort, the C5’s extra cost is justified. For commuters or occasional weekend riders who want modular convenience without premium pricing, the GT930 offers exceptional value.
Other Helmets Worth a Look
Shoei Neotec 3 – A high‑end modular that rivals the C5. It weighs around 4.03 lbs (size L) and features a refined ventilation system, center‑locking visor, updated drop‑down sun visor and optional SENA‑derived SRL‑3 comms system. Street price is about $900–$1,000.
Shoei Neotec 3 Helmet
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A premium modular helmet built for long-distance comfort and low noise, with a versatile flip-up chin bar, wide sun visor, and integrated speaker pockets for seamless comms.
Pros:
- Comfortable wear all day
- Quiet, aerodynamic performance
- Flip-front convenience at stops
- Integrated comms & sun visor
Cons:
- Faceshield lock is sometimes stiff
- Heavier weight may fatigue neck on long rides
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HJC RPHA 91 – A mid‑priced modular with a composite fiber shell. It weighs just under 4 lbs (≈1.8 kg) and includes a Pinlock‑ready shield, adjustable sun visor and glasses‑friendly interior. It’s quieter than the Scorpion but not as refined as the C5. Street price $550–$600.
HJC RPHA 91 Helmet
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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.
Pros:
- 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
Cons:
- Slightly heavy compared to lighter modulars
- Chin bar lock can be finicky to operate with gloves
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LS2 Advant X/Carbon – A budget‑friendly ECE 22.06 modular that rotates its chin bar 180 degrees behind the shell, turning into an open‑face helmet. The carbon version weighs around 1.47 kg, and both include a Pinlock insert and drop‑down sun visor. Prices range $350–$550 depending on material.
LS2 Advant X Helmet
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Carbon Fiber Version
A high-tech modular helmet offered in both composite and full carbon fiber shells.
Pros:
- 180-degree flip-back chin bar for easy full-face to open-face transition
- Lightweight yet strong Kinetic Polymer Alloy shell
- Pinlock-ready shield and built-in sun visor
Cons:
- Slightly bulky due to modular design
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If you’re curious how these two brands stack up in the bigger picture, our guide to the top helmet brands explains why Schuberth is seen as a premium touring benchmark and how Scorpion has carved out its spot as a value performance choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Schuberth C5 worth its premium price?
For riders who prioritize low noise, long‑distance comfort and integrated communications, yes. The C5’s quiet shell, lighter weight and ready‑to‑use comms system justify the extra cost. Casual or budget‑conscious riders may find the GT930 or RPHA 91 provide adequate performance for less.
Can you ride with the chin bar up on these helmets?
Both are P/J certified for use in open‑face mode. The C5 has a special detent that holds the chin bar part way up (city position) with an improved locking system. The GT930 allows the chin bar to swing up or be removed entirely; just remember that riding with the chin bar up increases wind drag and noise.
How do the sun visors compare?
The C5’s drop‑down sun visor offers broad coverage and a smooth V‑lock slider. The GT930’s SpeedView sun visor is also effective but doesn’t drop as low, which may leave a bit of light at the bottom edge. Both are anti‑fog and scratch‑resistant.
Are replacement parts and accessories easy to find?
Schuberth supports the C5 with replacement visors, liners and optional Individual fit pads. Scorpion offers replacement Everclear shields and different coloured peaks, plus the EXO‑COM comms kit. Because Scorpion helmets are widely distributed, parts availability is generally good.
What sizes are available?
The C5 comes in two shell sizes covering XS–L and XL–3XL; the GT930 uses three shells to cover XS–3XL. Both use intermediate‑oval fits but the C5 runs slightly narrow; always try before buying.
Do they come with Pinlock inserts?
Yes. The C5 includes a Pinlock 120 anti‑fog insert and the GT930’s Everclear shield is Pinlock‑ready with an insert included in most packages.
Wrapping Up…
Both helmets tick the modular convenience box, but they serve two very different riders. The Schuberth C5 is the quiet, plush, all-day touring lid for those willing to invest in premium comfort, while the Scorpion EXO-GT930 brings versatility and solid value at a fraction of the price.
In the end, it comes down to whether you’d rather pay for long-haul refinement or pocket the savings and still enjoy the freedom of a transformable modular.
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The quietest touring helmet money can buy, kitted out with all the features you expect for those long days in the saddle. | Versatile modular helmet that quickly converts to a 3/4 open face with an internal sun visor and removable peak—offering comfort, ventilation, and hands-free Bluetooth readiness. |
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The quietest touring helmet money can buy, kitted out with all the features you expect for those long days in the saddle.
- Modular flip up chin bar
- Drop down sun visor
- Space for integrated comms unit
- Many colorway options
- DOT certified, with ECE in EU
- Only two shell-size options; small heads may feel bulky
- Visor detent and sun-shield slider can feel stiff to operate
Versatile modular helmet that quickly converts to a 3/4 open face with an internal sun visor and removable peak—offering comfort, ventilation, and hands-free Bluetooth readiness.
- Quick, tool-free conversion from full-face to open-face for riding flexibility
- Internal SpeedView sun visor and anti-fog faceshield keep vision clear on the move
- Dual DOT/ECE P/J homologation ensures legal and safe use in both configurations
- Washable KwikWick liner and good ventilation maintain comfort on long rides
- A bit heavier than average modular helmets; may cause neck fatigue on longer rides
- Ventilation is solid at speed but can feel limited in stop-and-go traffic
