Best eBike Helmet (Why You Need a Special Helmet for eBikes)
Safety should always be a top priority, regardless of speed or riding preference. One of the essential safety gear items that every electric rider must have is a eBike helmet. Many people often ask if there are specific helmets designed for electric bikes and what is the best eBike Helmet.
As a general rule, there are helmets specifically designed for electric bikes, particularly for those with higher speeds (28 mph or more). For e-bikes with a top speed of 20 mph or below, a regular helmet is sufficient. E-bike-specific helmets are typically NTA-8776 certified.
We never know what could happen when we ride. While we may all hope for enjoyable and accident-free rides, being prepared for the unexpected is essential. Helmets serve as head protection in case unexpected accidents happen. Wearing a helmet gives us peace of mind as we tackle different terrains and enjoy the adventure that e-bike riding gives.
Do You Need a Special Helmet for an Electric Bike?
In most cases, wearing a traditional bicycle helmet is fine, especially when riding lower-speed electric bikes. However, if you prefer to ride your electric bike at higher speeds, such as 28 mph (45 kph) or even faster, an e-bike-specific helmet would be recommended.
It is crucial to wear e-bike-specific helmets when riding an electric bike at higher speeds because they have added safety features that some regular helmets may not have. Most e-bike-specific helmets are NTA-8776 certified, which means these helmets are more durable and cover a more significant part of the head, providing better protection from higher-impact incidents.
Helmets are essential as they provide safety benefits when riding regular or electric bicycles. Some may think that they are experienced riders, so they do not need to wear one. However, the level of experience someone has is not a basis for whether or not helmets should be worn. Whether you’re a professional or a beginner, wearing a helmet is a must.
Here’s the reason why helmets should be worn at all times when riding:
Helmets Reduce the Risk of Head Injuries Due to Bicycle Accidents
Accidents can happen anytime and anywhere, regardless of how much we try to avoid them. We never know when we might collide with another vehicle, a tree, or a person. In such moments, a helmet serves as vital protection for your head, guarding against potential injuries. It’s worth noting that the helmet’s exterior is hard, while the interior is soft. While it may not always prevent concussions in high-impact incidents, it significantly reduces the risk of severe brain injuries. What’s remarkable about e-bike-specific helmets is their deliberate design for durability and enhanced protection against high-impact accidents.
Helmets Protect the Head from Wind, Rain, Sunlight and Other Elements
Helmets reduce wind resistance, especially at higher speeds. Rain or shine, people often ride their electric bikes, and the weather can change during a ride. Helmets shield your head from weather conditions like direct sunlight and rain. They also protect your face and head from dirt, debris, and other elements you might encounter on your ride. Some helmets even come with visors or shields that protect your face from the elements, including rain and wind, and shield your eyes from excessive sunlight. Additionally, for riders with long hair, helmets help keep your hair in place, preventing it from flying around and getting in your face, ensuring a more comfortable ride. Helmets not only protect riders from head injuries but also help you maintain a neat appearance during and after your ride.
It Sets a Good Example for Children
Kids often start riding their bicycles or electric bicycles as early as three years old. At that age, they tend to imitate or follow what adults typically do and wear when riding. As adults, wearing helmets sets an excellent example for children to also wear one. It’s also advisable to explain to children the importance of helmets, emphasizing that it’s not only for their safety but for everyone’s safety.
What Kind of Helmet Do I Need for an Electric Bike?
As a whole, you can use a regular helmet when riding an electric bike as long as your speed does not exceed 20 mph (32 kph). When riding your electric bike at much higher speeds, opting for e-bike-specific helmets is highly recommended.
Here are some of the factors that should be taken into account when choosing an eBike helmet:
- The helmet should be NTA-8776 certified.
- It must have the Multi-directional Impact Protection System (MIPS).
- Ensure it has adequate ventilation.
- Select a helmet that fits your head circumference.
- Consider a helmet with visors for increased protection.
- Opt for a lightweight helmet.
(NTA) 8776 Certfiied Helmets
Helmets recommended for higher-speed electric bikes are those with NTA-8776 certification. If a helmet is NTA-8776 certified, it complies with the requirements outlined in the Dutch Technical Agreement (NTA) 8776. E-bike-specific helmets are designed to be durable and shock-absorbent. In the event of a collision or impact, these helmets absorb the energy to enhance safety and minimize the risk of head injuries.
Multi-directional Impact Protection System (MIPS) Helmets
Multi-directional Impact Protection System (MIPS) is a technology being integrated into helmets for safer riding. It protects your head from rotational forces or impacts, reducing the chance of concussion. So, when you’re hit by something, the MIPS impact liner moves to prevent the rotational impact from passing directly into your brain.
Helmets Should Have Adequate Ventilation for Steady Airflow
Wearing a helmet without proper ventilation for an extended period can lead to discomfort. The heat buildup and sweat can make your ride less enjoyable and impact your performance. Insufficient ventilation can reduce your concentration and make you feel irritated. Therefore, helmets need to have adequate ventilation to allow fresh air to circulate around your head and keep it cool. Proper ventilation will enable you to ride your electric bike with confidence, comfort, and improved focus.
Helmets Should Fit Your Head Circumference
Choose an e-bike helmet that fits your head’s circumference perfectly, or purchase one that can be adjusted according to your head’s size. If a helmet is too loose, there’s a high probability that it will move around on your head and sometimes block your view. Occasionally, it can even come off your head. You wouldn’t want to stop each time to fix it again and again, which can cause you to lose focus and control over your electric bike. So, to keep yourself safe and comfortable, find a helmet that fits your head properly.
Helmets with Visors Increase Protection
When riding an electric bike at higher speeds, it’s recommended to wear a helmet with a visor or shield. Visors provide extra protection for your head in various weather conditions. On a hot sunny day, visors protect your eyes from the sun’s rays, which can otherwise hinder your vision when riding. With visors, you can ride comfortably throughout your electric journey. During rainy or windy days, there are times when mud, rain, dirt, or debris may hit your face. Therefore, to shield your face from these elements, it’s advisable to wear helmets with visors.
Opt for a Lightweight Helmet
Wearing a heavy helmet should be a no-no! A heavy helmet can cause discomfort and strain your neck when worn for a long time. Lightweight helmets make moving your head much easier, and their lightness keeps your head comfortable when riding, thus improving performance.
“If my career were a hairstyle, it would be helmet-head.” ~ Laura Dern
eBike Specific Helmets
- Giro Camden
- Bern Hudson Commuter Helmet
- Lumos Ultra Smart Bike Helmet
- FUELL ebike helmet
- Logan XNITO Helmet
- Bontrager Charge WaveCel Commuter Helmet
- Specialized Mode Helmet
Giro Camden Helmet
The Giro Camden is a highly recommended e-bike helmet. It features an integrated Multi-Directional Protection System (MIPS). It holds NTA-8776 certification, ensuring durability and enhanced head protection in high-impact crashes. The helmet is constructed with a hybrid design that balances durability and lightness, weighing around 690 grams.
This helmet is available in three sizes: small, medium, and large. It boasts an air-fit system and ten vents, four of which are adjustable wind tunnel vents. These features provide excellent ventilation, keeping your head cool and comfortable as you ride across various terrains. The helmet also includes anti-bacterial padding and an integrated rechargeable rear light for added comfort and safety.
It’s important to note that the Giro Camden helmet doesn’t have a visor to protect your face, particularly when riding at higher speeds. However, you can choose to wear cycling glasses for added protection. This helmet ranges from $83.52 to $215.68 on Amazon.
Bern Hudson Commuter Helmet
The Bern Hudson is another highly recommended helmet for electric bike riding. It features in-mold construction and meets the requirements for e-bike cycling safety standards. This helmet has safety features, including the Multi-Directional Protection system, a 5-star rating in Virginia Tech safety ratings, and NTA-8776 certification. With these certifications and features, the Bern Hudson helmet ensures you have the highest-quality head protection for your electric bike rides.
Available in three different sizes (small, medium, and large), the Bern Hudson helmet employs a compass fit system, allowing you to customize the fit to your liking. This ensures that the helmet stays securely in place and offers maximum comfort. The helmet boasts 13 vents for excellent ventilation, keeping your head cool throughout your rides. Plus, it’s incredibly lightweight, weighing only about 370 grams, which won’t strain your neck.
The Bern Hudson helmet also includes an integrated light for increased visibility, especially during nighttime rides. This light emits 6.6 lumens and offers three light modes: steady, flash, and pulse. The light has a battery life of approximately 10 hours and is rechargeable, ensuring you’re always prepared for your adventures.
It’s important to mention that the Bern Hudson helmet doesn’t come with a visor for facial protection, particularly at high speeds. However, you can choose to wear cycling glasses for added protection. The Bern Hudson helmet is priced at $140 on their website and has a price range of $99.95 – $132.99 on Amazon.
Lumos Ultra eBike Helmet
The Lumos Ultra e-bike helmet is a top choice for those embarking on electric bike adventures. It meets the Dutch NTA 8776 requirements, ensuring that your helmet is both durable and constructed from high-quality materials, providing a high level of protection against high-impact speeds. Additionally, it incorporates the Multi-Directional Impact Protection System (MIPS), safeguarding your head from rotational impacts.
This helmet features 22 vents for continuous airflow inside the helmet to keep your head cool and fresh. The Lumos Ultra e-bike helmet also boasts integrated lights on the front (left and right) and rear sides of the helmet with turn signal capabilities. You can also have automatic brake lights when you upgrade with the Lumos remote. The lights have an approximate runtime of 2-10 hours and can be recharged in about three hours.
What makes this helmet even better is the fact that it has smart features. You can connect the helmet to an Apple watch, allowing you to use the gesture recognition function for the signal lights. Moreover, you can change the light modes via the Lumos app. To learn more about the Lumos Ultra Smart e-bike, check Lumos’ website for more details.
In addition to this, the Lumos Ultra e-bike comes with a protective eyeshield, so you won’t have to worry about dust, dirt, or other elements hitting your face. Riding even when the sun is shining is easier since the eyeshield protects your eyes against sun rays. Rain or shine, your helmet will keep you safe and comfortable throughout your electric ride.
It’s safe to say that high-quality helmets often come at a higher price. The Lumos Ultra e-bike helmet is available for approximately $229.95. You can purchase it directly from their website or find it on Amazon.
FUELL eBike helmet
The Fuell e-bike helmet is another option for your electric bike journey. It features NTA-8776 certification, a new safety requirement for helmets designed for high-speed electric rides. This certification ensures the helmet can absorb shocks and impacts in case of accidents.
This helmet has four air inlets and nine air outlets to provide excellent airflow inside the helmet, keeping you cool and comfortable. Additionally, the Fuell e-bike helmet has an integrated LED taillight with 180° visibility. It also features an adjustable ring for a perfect fit to your head. Moreover, the helmet comes with a visor, protecting your face and eyes during your ride.
However, it’s important to note that the Fuell e-bike helmet does not have a Multi-Direction Impact Protection System (MIPS), which protects your head from rotational forces. Also, it is only available in two sizes, medium and large, and is priced at $199.99.
Logan XNITO Helmet
The Logan Xnito is another helmet option for your electric bike adventures. It features in-mold construction with a classic design, making it suitable for your daily rides. This helmet holds the NTA 8776 certification, ensuring it’s built with reliability and durability in mind.
The Logan Xnito helmet has front and rear lights, enhancing visibility, especially during night rides. The lights have an approximate battery life of 10 hours and are easily rechargeable via USB. The rear lights offer three modes: flash, static, and wavy.
This helmet is available in three sizes (medium, large, and extra-large). It features a dial-fit wheel, allowing you to adjust the fit perfectly for your head. It also provides proper ventilation with its ten vents, ensuring comfort during your electric bike rides.
Additionally, the Logan helmet has a removable fabric visor to help shield your eyes from sunlight. However, it’s important to note that the fabric visor might not be suitable for blocking sunlight from all angles. Unfortunately, this helmet does not include MIPS technology to protect against rotational impacts.
The Logan Xnito e-bike helmet is priced at $150 on their website and $155 on Amazon.
Bontrager Charge WaveCel Commuter Helmet
The Bontrager Charge WaveCel is another highly recommended helmet for electric bike rides. This helmet is available in three different sizes and weighs between 392 and 498 grams, depending on the helmet’s size.
The Bontrager Charge WaveCel complies with safety standard certifications for electric bike use, holding both the NTA 8776 certification and a 5-star rating from Virginia Tech validation. This ensures you can enjoy your electric bike rides with peace of mind.
While this e-bike helmet does not feature MIPS technology, it includes WaveCel technology specifically designed to absorb linear impacts and rotational energy. Additionally, the helmet features moisture-wicking and washable pads for extra comfort during your rides.
What sets this helmet apart is its Crash Replacement Guarantee, which allows you to receive a replacement helmet in case of a crash or accident within one year of ownership.
The Bontrager Charge WaveCel helmet is available for $149.99 on their website and $179.35 on Amazon.
Specialized Mode Helmet
The Specialized Mode is another reputable helmet suitable for your e-bike adventures. This helmet boasts certifications and features that make it ideal for riding at higher speeds. It is NTA 8776 certified, holds a five-star rating from Virginia Tech helmet rating, is equipped with MIPS technology, and is ANGi ready.
The Specialized Mode helmet is available in three different sizes and two head forms, providing a wide range of options to help you find the perfect fit. It also features an integrated fit adjustment system, ensuring you can customize the fit to suit your needs.
Additionally, this helmet offers hidden vent integration to ensure adequate airflow, helping keep your head cool during your rides. It also includes reflective decals and is Stix Light compatible, enhancing your visibility on the road.
With all these features, the Specialized Mode helmet gives you the confidence to ride your electric bike anytime and anywhere. Moreover, this helmet is more affordable than some of the other helmets mentioned above, with a price range of $89.99-$120.
You can also watch the video below for additional e-bike helmet recommendations.
eBike Helmet Vs. Bike Helmet
As a general rule, a regular bike helmet works well for riding traditional bicycles or electric bicycles when traveling at lower speeds. E-bike-specific helmets are best suited for adventures that require higher speeds.
If you’re simply cruising around town leisurely and enjoying the scenery, a good-quality regular bike helmet will suffice because it provides adequate protection. However, if you’re venturing into more challenging adventures that involve higher speeds, it’s advisable to opt for an e-bike-specific helmet. These helmets offer enhanced protection against high-impact speeds.
Cost: eBike Helmet Vs Bike Helmet
Let’s compare a high-quality regular helmet and a high-quality e-bike-specific helmet. The cost of a traditional bike helmet is definitely cheaper than that of an e-bike helmet. This is because e-bike helmets usually have additional safety features that are sometimes not found in typical bike helmets.
However, there are also regular bike helmets that may cost more than an e-bike-specific helmet due to the brand and their overall features and performance.
Crash Protection: eBike Helmet Vs Bike Helmet
In most cases, e-bike-specific helmets offer better crash protection than regular helmets. This is because electric bike helmets typically have features that can better withstand high-impact speeds. Therefore, when choosing a helmet, always consider the speed at which you usually ride your e-bike.
Certifications: eBike Helmet Vs Bike Helmet
A high-quality regular bike helmet usually has certifications such as CPSC and EN1078, ensuring that the specific helmet is safe and complies with safety standards for cycling. However, electric bike-specific helmets typically carry these certifications as well as NTA-8776. If a helmet is NTA-8776 certified, it complies with the Dutch Technical Agreement (NTA) 8776 requirements. This certification ensures the helmet can protect you at much higher speeds and covers a more significant portion of your head.
Safety Technology: eBike Helmet Vs Bike Helmet
Many electric bike helmets incorporate technologies designed to safeguard your head from linear impacts and rotational energy. One of these technologies is the Multi-Directional Impact Protection System (MIPS). Additionally, there are e-bike helmets that feature different technologies while still offering protection against rotational impacts, such as the WaveCel technology found in the Bontrager Charge WaveCel helmets.
However, it’s important to note that not all e-bike helmets include these technologies, and some regular bike helmets may also incorporate them.
Comfort: eBike Helmet Vs Bike Helmet
Both e-bike-specific helmets and regular bike helmets provide comfort and adequate ventilation to keep your head cool and fresh, even when riding in high temperatures. The level of comfort and ventilation can vary depending on the brand and model of the helmets. Whether it’s an e-bike helmet or a regular helmet, some companies put in extra effort to offer better comfort and ventilation compared to others.
Style and Design: eBike Helmet Vs Bike Helmet
Both e-bike helmets and regular helmets are available in various styles and designs. They come in different sizes and colors. Some companies offer a wide range of styles, designs, and colors and even allow you to customize your helmet. Meanwhile, other companies may offer only a single design, style, and color option.
eBike Helmet Full Face
As a whole, an e-bike full-face helmet is a helmet that covers and protects not just the top portion of the head but also the entire face, including the chin and jaw. These helmets are typically used by riders who are more into conquering challenging terrains, such as mountain biking.
Most e-bike helmets are NTA 8776 certified, but most are not full-faced. However, there are full-faced helmets available for e-bikes, and although some of them may not have NTA 8776 certification, they do have safety technology and features to ensure your safety.
Here are some full-face helmets you can use for your e-bike rides.
| eBike Full-Faced Helmets | Cost | Features |
| VIRGO INTEGRAL MIPS | €229 (approx. $242.19) | *three sizes*three colors*four visor types*detachable visor* Smart Magnetic LED Rear Light (Rechargeable) with 5 light modes* NTA-8776 certified, CE EN 1078 / CPSC + NZS 2063 certified* 600g and 650g*ABS monobloc shell and In-mold EPS liner*9 vents*MIPS technology |
| Bell Full-10 Spherical Helmet | $650 | *four sizes*four colors*MIPS technology*Thermal Exchange Airflow System™ (T.E.A.S.)* antimicrobial and comfort padding with magnetic cheek pads* camera mount* titanium D-rings on the chin strap*Adjustable visor with air intake vents*1000 grams*NTA 8776 certified, complies with the US CPSC safety standard, CE EN 1078:2012 certification, ASTM F1952-15 certification, DH ASTM F2032-15 BMX certification*Helmet bag included |
| Giro Insurgent Spherical Helmet | – | *three sizes*four colors*outer EPS layer and an inner EPP layer* Patent-pending Flex Gasket*MIPS technology* Adjustable moto-style screw-in visor*20 vents* Fit Kit padding with cheek pads* central visor bolt hole for camera mounting* US CPSC Safety Standard certification, ASTM-1952-DH, ASTM-2032-BMX, EU: CE EN1078, AS/NZS |
| PARACHUTE MCR | €350 (approx. $370.07) | *three sizes*nine colors*magnetic chinbar release*MIPS technology* Adjustable visor* ASTM 1952-15/2032-15 certified* Removable cheek-pads (2 sizes included)*21 vents* Helmet soft-bag (included) |
| Smith Mainline | $186 | *three sizes*six colors*Koroyd and MIPS technology* CPSC CE EN 1078, ASTM F1952 downhill, and NTA-8776 E-Bike certified*AirEvac ventilation system with Smith goggles for fog-free lenses* D-ring chin strap*three washable cheek pads*21 vents*adjustable visor* Ionic anti-bacterial performance lining*weigh 770 grams |
eBike Helmet with Visor
As a whole, an e-bike helmet with a visor is one equipped with an integrated visor, which is often removable and replaceable. This visor shields the rider’s eyes from dirt, debris, sunlight, and other elements that might obstruct the rider’s vision or cause eye irritation.
Here are some of e-bike specific helmets that are equipped with visors.
| eBike Helmets with Visor | Cost | Features |
| VIRGO INTEGRAL MIPS | €229 (approx. $242.19) | *three sizes*three colors*four visor types*detachable visor* Smart Magnetic LED Rear Light (Rechargeable) with 5 light modes* NTA-8776 certified, CE EN 1078 / CPSC + NZS 2063 certified* 600g and 650g*ABS monobloc shell and In-mold EPS liner*9 vents*MIPS technology |
| Bell Full-10 Spherical Helmet | $650 | *four sizes*four colors*MIPS technology*Thermal Exchange Airflow System™ (T.E.A.S.)* antimicrobial and comfort padding with magnetic cheek pads* camera mount* titanium D-rings on the chin strap*Adjustable visor with air intake vents*1000 grams*NTA 8776 certified, complies with the US CPSC safety standard, CE EN 1078:2012 certification, ASTM F1952-15 certification, DH ASTM F2032-15 BMX certification*Helmet bag included |
| Smith Mainline | $186 | *three sizes*six colors*Koroyd and MIPS technology* CPSC CE EN 1078, ASTM F1952 downhill, and NTA-8776 E-Bike certified*AirEvac ventilation system with Smith goggles for fog-free lenses* D-ring chin strap*three washable cheek pads*21 vents*adjustable visor* Ionic anti-bacterial performance lining*weigh 770 grams |
| Lumos Ultra E-Bike Helmet | $229.95 | *One size*Six colors*MIPS technology*weigh 530 grams*Front (left and right) and rear lights*Bluetooth 4.0*CPSC, F1447, NTA 8776:2016-12, AS/NZS2063:2008, EN1078:2012 + A1:2012 certifications*Apple watch connectivity |
| FUELL eBike Helmet | $199.99 | *two sizes*one color*Integrated rechargeable rear light with 180° visibility*4 air inlets and 9 air outlets*Magnetic strap*replaceable visor and removable warming earmuffs*CPSC in the US, CE and NTA 8776 certifications |
Class 3 eBike Helmets
As a general rule, Class 3 e-bike helmets are those that are specifically designed for Class 3 electric bikes. These helmets are perfect for Class 3 e-bike use because they have features that provide maximum protection for higher-speed impacts.
Here are some of e-bike specific helmets that are perfect for Class 3 e-bike rides.
| Class 3 eBike Helmets | Cost | Features |
| Lumos Ultra E-Bike Helmet | $229.95 | *One size*Six colors*MIPS technology*weigh 530 grams*Front (left and right) and rear lights*Bluetooth 4.0*CPSC, F1447, NTA 8776:2016-12, AS/NZS2063:2008, EN1078:2012 + A1:2012 certifications*Apple watch connectivity |
| FUELL eBike Helmet | $199.99 | *two sizes*one color*Integrated rechargeable rear light with 180° visibility*4 air inlets and 9 air outlets*Magnetic strap*replaceable visor and removable warming earmuffs*CPSC in the US, CE and NTA 8776 certifications |
| Giro Camden Mips Helmet | – | *three sizes*three colors*integrated rechargeable rear light*Roc Loc Air fit system*Air-FX padding*10 vents*Fidlock magnetic snap helmet buckle*MIPS technology*In-mold construction*NTA 8776 and E.U.: CE EN1078 certified |
| Specialized Mode Helmet | $89.99-$120 | *three sizes*four colors*two headforms (round and classic)*U.S. CPSC and NTA8776 certified*5-star rating in Virginia Tech helmet rating*Reflective decals and Stix Light compatibility*fit adjustment system*MIPS technology and ANGi ready |
| Bontrager Charge WaveCel Commuter Helmet | $149.99 | *three sizes*three colors*BOA Fit System*Fidlock magnetic buckle*Moisture wicking pads*WaveCel technology*U.S. CPSC and NTA 8776 certified and approved for S-EPAC use*5-star in Virginia Tech helmet rating*Crash Replacement Guarantee |
Stylish eBike Helmets
As a whole, stylish e-bike helmets are designed for e-bike use, featuring appealing elements that cater to riders’ sense of style and preference. These helmets offer a combination of safety and fashion, making them an excellent choice for electric bike riders who desire safety, comfort, and style.
Riders have varying fashion senses, styles, and preferences, including their choice of helmets. What may be stylish to one rider might not be to another. When selecting an e-bike helmet, consider those with a range of color options to cater to diverse tastes.
Helmets are a safety accessory that needs to be worn when riding any bicycle or electric bicycle. So, the helmet type to be worn should be considered when riding. If you also want to add a new accessory to your e-bike, such as a child seat, check our article “Electric Bike Child Seat Safety (Front Vs. Rear Vs. Trailer).”
