Key takeaways
- Head shape first. Most helmets here are described as intermediate oval. The Arai XD-5 is noted as no longer fitting long-oval heads, and the Hornet X2 as running small. Measure around the widest part of your head and use each maker’s size chart.
- Understand the certification label. DOT is the US requirement, ECE 22.06 is the newer European standard, and Snell is a voluntary additional standard. The Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS is listed at ECE 22.05, an earlier version, which is still a valid label but not the latest.
- Goggles and glasses. Check whether the eye port takes your goggles and whether glasses arms fit with speaker pockets and a cheek pad. Some riders trim nothing and simply choose a different model.
- Peak behaviour. Peaks help with low sun and roost but can create lift. Remove it for long road stretches if the manual allows.
- Keep awareness. Off-road, hearing your bike and companions matters. Keep the volume modest.
- Replacement. Replace a helmet after a significant impact or at the interval in the maker’s manual.
If you want a dual sport helmet with Bluetooth built in, the Sena Outlander and the Scorpion EXO-AT960 EXO-COM are the two integrated options that reviewers keep naming, while riders who would rather choose their own communicator are better off with a comms-ready adventure shell such as the Schuberth E2, Arai XD-5, Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS or Shoei Hornet X2. Budget-minded riders can look at the Sedici Viaggio Parlare. The decision comes down to how much of your riding is on pavement, how much wind noise you accept, and whether you want a sealed-in system or a separate unit you can upgrade.
Our top picks
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At a glance
Specifications below are drawn from the makers’ listings as relayed by review outlets named in the text. Certifications and features change between model years, so read the label and manual on the exact helmet you buy.
| Helmet | Type | Bluetooth approach | Certification noted | Best for | Limits reported |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sena Outlander | ADV and dual sport full-face | Built-in Mesh 3.0, up to about 1.2 miles stated, up to about 20 hours talk time | DOT | Integrated comms for mixed riding | Peak catches wind; electronics add weight |
| Scorpion EXO-AT960 EXO-COM | Modular adventure | UClear system with dynamic mesh per Ride ADV | DOT and ECE 22.06 on the base AT960 | Riders wanting flip-up plus comms | Heavier modular design |
| Sedici Viaggio Parlare | Adventure | Integrated Sena DWO-5 | Listed as a value pick | Budget integrated comms | Less refined than premium shells |
| Schuberth E2 | Modular adventure | Prepared for Sena SC2 | DOT and ECE 22.06 | Premium road-heavy adventure | Premium tier cost; some visor parts feel light |
| Arai XD-5 | Adventure full-face | Speaker pockets, universal comms | DOT and Snell; ECE in Europe | Quiet shell, tool-free peak and shield | No internal sun visor; shape may not suit long-oval heads |
| Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS | Adventure full-face | Universal clamp-on systems | DOT and ECE 22.05 | Value with MIPS liner | Wind noise at highway speed |
| Shoei Hornet X2 | Adventure full-face | Universal compatible | DOT and Snell | Optics and light AIM+ shell | Runs small; no sun visor |
What makes a helmet “dual sport”
Dual sport and adventure helmets borrow from both off-road and street designs. They usually have a peak or visor that shades the eyes and sheds roost, a larger eye port so goggles can be worn, and strong ventilation for slow technical riding. The compromise is aerodynamics. A peak can lift at speed, and bigger openings let in more wind noise. For a rider who spends a lot of time on the highway, a smoother shell with a removable peak tends to be more comfortable, which is why several models above allow the peak to come off.
Bluetooth adds another layer. Trail riders often want to keep conversation modest, hear their surroundings and keep the system simple. Road-oriented adventure riders want stable audio at speed for navigation prompts and music. Both groups should ask whether the speaker pockets are deep enough for their ears and whether the chin strap and liner leave space for a microphone.
Integrated Bluetooth options
Sena Outlander
It’s Better on the Road names the Outlander its best off-road integrated pick. It lists a DOT-certified ADV shell with built-in Mesh 3.0, a range quoted at up to about 1.2 miles, up to about 20 hours of talk time, integrated LED lighting, a removable peak and a quick-dry liner. A brake-sensing taillight is among the features noted. Reviewers praise the absence of an external unit and mention two drawbacks: the peak catches wind, and the electronics add weight. As with other Sena integrated products, intercom works best with other Sena units.
Scorpion EXO-AT960 EXO-COM
Ride ADV calls this the only dual sport helmet with Bluetooth on the market that includes dynamic mesh functionality, using a UClear system. Another outlet describes the base EXO-AT960 as both a modular and an adventure helmet, with a flip-up chin bar, drop-down sun visor and removable peak, certified to DOT and ECE 22.06. If you value the ability to talk, drink or refuel with the front open, the modular layout helps, but remember that a chin bar adds mechanical complexity and weight.
Sedici Viaggio Parlare
Described as the value pick by Ride ADV, this model has an integrated Sena DWO-5 system. Value choices tend to give up refinement in ventilation tuning, weight or liner material, so try one on if you can before deciding.
Comms-ready premium and mid-range shells
Schuberth E2
Listed by It’s Better on the Road as the best overall adventure helmet with Bluetooth, the E2 is a modular full-face with DOT and ECE 22.06 certification, a custom-fit prepared design for the Sena SC2, and aerodynamics described as superior for reducing wind resistance. Reviewers describe true-to-size fit. Downsides are cost and some visor parts that feel less robust than the shell.
Arai XD-5
Reviewers call the XD-5 the quietest option in this group, with tool-free removal for the peak and shield and enhanced venting. It lacks an internal sun visor. Ride ADV reports that the new shell shape no longer fits long-oval heads, and that audio integration varies depending on which communicator you pair with it.
Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS
This is the value pick for a MIPS liner, which is designed to help manage rotational forces in an impact according to the maker. It has a removable peak, a large viewport and strong ventilation, but reviewers note wind noise that ramps up quickly at highway speeds and a peak that can rattle.
Shoei Hornet X2
The Hornet X2 is praised for excellent optics and a light AIM+ shell. Reviewers add that it runs small and does not have an internal sun visor, and that wind noise is moderate. Size up carefully and try it on with your intended communicator speakers.
AGV AX9
Ride ADV lists the AX9 among helmets with speaker pockets for a separate comms unit. It suits riders who prefer a performance-oriented shell and are happy to pick a standalone intercom.
Pick this if you ride like this
| If you… | Consider | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Ride gravel and pavement and want everything built in | Sena Outlander | Integrated Mesh 3.0, LED lights, removable peak |
| Want a flip-up front with an integrated system | Scorpion EXO-AT960 EXO-COM | Modular layout with a UClear mesh system |
| Need integrated comms on a tighter budget | Sedici Viaggio Parlare | Integrated Sena DWO-5, described as a value pick |
| Spend most miles on highways | Schuberth E2 or Arai XD-5 | Reviewers emphasise aerodynamics and low noise |
| Want a MIPS liner without a premium price | Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS | Value-tier shell with removable peak |
| Want to choose your own communicator | Any comms-ready shell | Swap or upgrade the unit later |
Fit and safety notes
- Head shape first. Most helmets here are described as intermediate oval. The Arai XD-5 is noted as no longer fitting long-oval heads, and the Hornet X2 as running small. Measure around the widest part of your head and use each maker’s size chart.
- Understand the certification label. DOT is the US requirement, ECE 22.06 is the newer European standard, and Snell is a voluntary additional standard. The Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS is listed at ECE 22.05, an earlier version, which is still a valid label but not the latest.
- Goggles and glasses. Check whether the eye port takes your goggles and whether glasses arms fit with speaker pockets and a cheek pad. Some riders trim nothing and simply choose a different model.
- Peak behaviour. Peaks help with low sun and roost but can create lift. Remove it for long road stretches if the manual allows.
- Keep awareness. Off-road, hearing your bike and companions matters. Keep the volume modest.
- Replacement. Replace a helmet after a significant impact or at the interval in the maker’s manual.
Alternatives to consider
- A road-focused adventure helmet with a standalone intercom. The Cardo Packtalk and Sena 60S series are reviewed as strong group-communication options that move from helmet to helmet.
- An off-road helmet without comms. If your riding is mostly trail based and you rarely need audio, a lighter dirt-style helmet may be more comfortable.
- A budget helmet plus a basic headset. The EJEAS V6 Pro is among budget headsets mentioned by reviewers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a standard Bluetooth headset in a dual sport helmet?
Many riders do, using clamp-on units with a boom or wired microphone. The key is that the speakers sit near your ears without pressing on them. Helmets with speaker pockets make this easier.
Do dual sport helmets get noisy on the highway?
They are often noisier than road-only full-face helmets because of the peak, larger eye port and vents. Reviewers specifically mention highway wind noise for the Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS and the Hornet X2. Earplugs rated for riding are a common addition.
Is a modular dual sport helmet a good idea?
It can be, because the front lifts for conversation and refuelling and some models also carry a sun visor. The trade-off is added weight and mechanism complexity. Keep the chin bar locked while riding and follow the maker’s guidance.
What does Mesh intercom mean for trail riders?
Mesh lets multiple riders stay connected as the group stretches out and re-forms, which can help on twisty trails. The Sena Outlander lists a range of up to about 1.2 miles in the open, and real range will be lower with terrain and trees.
Can I wear goggles with these helmets?
Most adventure shells have a large eye port designed for goggles, but compatibility depends on the goggle frame and nose cutout. Try your goggles with the helmet before committing, and note that some shells include a shield you may not use.
How do I care for a helmet with electronics?
Remove the communicator or follow the manual before washing the liner, avoid solvents on the shell, and store the helmet in a cool place. Charge the battery with the supplied cable and avoid leaving it fully drained for long periods.
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