Simpson Helmets

Simpson Motorcycle Helmets: Complete Buying Guide & Model Comparison

Simpson motorcycle helmets are known for their aggressive styling, motorsports heritage, and distinctive Bandit designs. Popular among Harley-Davidson riders, performance bagger builders, and custom motorcycle enthusiasts, Simpson offers full-face and modular helmets for different riding styles, preferences, and budgets.

At Get Lowered Cycles, we carry Simpson Ghost Bandit, Mod Bandit, Speed Bandit, M30, Outlaw Bandit 3, and Journey Bandit helmets, along with replacement shields and accessories.

Whether you're searching for a lightweight carbon fiber helmet, a convenient modular design, or a classic full-face motorcycle helmet, this guide will help you compare Simpson's popular models.

Simpson Ghost Bandit — Aggressive Full-Face Styling

The Simpson Ghost Bandit is one of the brand's most recognizable motorcycle helmets. Its distinctive chin bar, integrated ventilation, and aggressive profile make it especially popular with Harley-Davidson and performance motorcycle riders.

Key features include:

• Fixed full-face chin bar

• Integrated drop-down internal sun visor

• Adjustable chin ventilation with top and rear airflow

• Removable, washable interior

• Speaker pockets for compatible communication systems

• Tool-free shield removal

• Composite and carbon fiber configurations

• DOT and ECE certifications on specified versions

The Ghost Bandit is a strong choice for riders seeking full-face coverage with a distinctive custom motorcycle appearance.

Shop Simpson Ghost Bandit Gloss Black Helmet

Simpson Mod Bandit — Modular Helmet Versatility

The Simpson Mod Bandit combines signature Simpson styling with a flip-up modular chin bar.

Unlike the fixed chin bar of the Ghost Bandit, the Mod Bandit's chin section can be raised when stopped, making it convenient for touring, conversations, and other situations where riders want easier access without removing the entire helmet.

Features include:

• One-hand flip-up modular chin bar

• Drop-down internal sun visor

• Tri-composite shell construction on standard models

• Pinlock-compatible external shield

• Removable, washable comfort padding

• Communication-system compatibility

• Adjustable ventilation

• DOT and ECE certifications on specified versions

The Mod Bandit is particularly popular with Road Glide, Street Glide, and other Harley Touring riders who want the convenience of a modular helmet.

Important: A modular helmet's ability to lock its chin bar open does not automatically mean it is certified for riding in that position. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and the specific helmet's certification markings.

Shop Simpson Mod Bandit Modular Helmet

Simpson Speed Bandit — Affordable Full-Face Motorcycle Helmet

The Simpson Speed Bandit delivers classic Simpson styling in a more budget-oriented full-face design.

Featuring a thermo-injected polycarbonate shell, the Speed Bandit offers an alternative to higher-priced composite and carbon fiber models.

Key features include:

• Fixed full-face construction

• Thermo-injected polycarbonate shell

• Distinctive Speed Brow ventilation design

• Chin vents and exhaust airflow

• Replaceable face shield

• Pinlock-compatible shield system

• DOT and ECE certifications on specified versions

The Speed Bandit is well suited to riders looking for an everyday full-face motorcycle helmet with Simpson styling without moving into the more expensive carbon fiber models.

Popular options include Gloss Black, Matte Black, Americana, and limited-edition graphics.

Shop Simpson Speed Bandit Helmet

Simpson M30 Bandit — Classic Styling With Modern Features

The Simpson M30 Bandit brings back the distinctive appearance of Simpson's heritage M30 design with updated construction and contemporary helmet features.

The modern M30 combines traditional motorsport-inspired styling with improved interior materials and a wide field of view.

Features of the 2026 M30 lineup include:

• Three shell sizes for different head sizes

• Multi-density EPS impact-management liner

• Removable and washable comfort interior

• Wide, optically corrected face shield

• Pinlock Max Vision anti-fog insert

• Speaker cutouts for compatible communication systems

• TwiceMe NFC technology for storing emergency information

• Preparation for the Eject emergency helmet removal system

• DOT and ECE 22.06 certification

Select M30 configurations feature premium carbon fiber construction.

The M30 is a compelling option for riders who appreciate traditional Simpson designs but want contemporary helmet engineering and features.

Shop Simpson M30 Carbon Fiber Helmet

Simpson Outlaw Bandit 3 — Race-Inspired Full-Face Design

The Simpson Outlaw Bandit 3, also called the Outlaw Bandit 3.0, is designed around the brand's classic aggressive Bandit appearance.

Compared with the Ghost Bandit, the Outlaw Bandit 3 emphasizes a more traditional motorsports-inspired configuration.

Key features include:

• Fixed full-face design

• Lightweight composite or carbon fiber shell options

• Updated shield and ratchet mechanism

• Four shield positions, including closed

• Ventilation through the chin bar

• Three shell sizes

• DOT and Snell M2020 certification on listed models

One important distinction is the revised shield system. The Outlaw Bandit 3 requires shields designed for the newer Outlaw 3 platform. Previous-generation Outlaw Bandit shields are not interchangeable.

For riders who prioritize the classic Simpson Bandit appearance and specifically want a helmet carrying Snell certification, the Outlaw Bandit 3 deserves consideration.

Shop Simpson Outlaw Bandit 3 Helmet

Simpson Journey Bandit — Modular Touring & Adventure Helmet

The Simpson Journey Bandit expands the brand's modular lineup with features intended for touring and adventure-oriented riding.

Its modular chin bar and removable peak provide additional flexibility for riders who use their motorcycles for commuting, highway touring, and longer trips.

Features include:

• One-hand modular chin bar operation

• Removable peak

• Tri-composite shell on standard configurations

• Drop-down internal sun visor

• Adjustable ventilation

• Removable comfort interior

• Communication-system compatibility

• Included Pinlock 120 Max Vision insert

• DOT and ECE 22.06 certification on listed models

The Journey Bandit is a useful alternative for riders who want modular convenience with a removable peak and touring-oriented features.

Shop Simpson Journey Bandit Modular Helmet

Which Simpson Helmet Is Right for You?

Choosing between Simpson helmets depends on your preferred construction, riding style, and convenience features.

Simpson Helmet	Helmet Type	Main Distinction
Ghost Bandit	Full Face	Aggressive styling with internal sun visor
Mod Bandit	Modular	Flip-up chin bar and internal sun visor
Speed Bandit	Full Face	Budget-oriented polycarbonate design
M30 Bandit	Full Face	Heritage styling with modern features
Outlaw Bandit 3	Full Face	Classic race-inspired styling and Snell-certified versions
Journey Bandit	Modular	Touring-oriented design with removable peak

Full-Face vs. Modular Simpson Helmets

A full-face helmet features a fixed chin bar, while a modular helmet has a movable chin bar assembly.

Full-face options such as the Ghost Bandit, Speed Bandit, M30, and Outlaw Bandit 3 appeal to riders who prefer a fixed-chin-bar configuration.

Modular helmets such as the Mod Bandit and Journey Bandit provide additional convenience when stopped.

Modular and full-face helmets can have different test certifications, and specific construction and certification details should be checked for each model.

Composite vs. Carbon Fiber Simpson Helmets

Simpson offers different shell materials across its product range.

Polycarbonate shells are used in models such as the Speed Bandit and provide a more economical construction approach.

Composite shells combine selected reinforcing materials in a molded shell structure and are found in models such as standard Ghost Bandit and Mod Bandit configurations.

Carbon fiber shells are available on select Simpson models, including the Ghost Bandit, M30, and Outlaw Bandit 3.

Carbon fiber models may offer weight advantages compared with certain other configurations, but actual helmet weight varies by model and size. Shell material alone does not establish the overall level of crash protection.

Simpson Motorcycle Helmet Sizing & Fit Guide

Proper helmet fit is one of the most important factors when purchasing a motorcycle helmet.

Even a highly rated helmet may not provide its intended protection if the size or shape is incorrect.

How to Measure Your Head

1. Use a flexible measuring tape.

2. Measure around the widest part of your head, approximately one inch above your eyebrows.

3. Keep the tape level around the back of your head.

4. Record your measurement in centimeters.

5. Compare your measurement against the size chart for the specific Simpson helmet model.

When trying on a helmet, it should feel snug, with even pressure around your head and cheeks.

The helmet should not rotate freely, shift excessively, or create concentrated painful pressure points.

Understanding Helmet Head Shapes

Motorcycle helmets are designed around different head profiles, including round oval, intermediate oval, and long oval.

A helmet that matches your head circumference but has an incompatible internal shape may still be uncomfortable or fit improperly.

Do not assume every Simpson model fits identically. Interior shapes, cheek pads, and sizing can differ between the Ghost Bandit, Mod Bandit, Speed Bandit, and newer M30 designs.

Always reference the specific helmet's size chart and fitment information.

Understanding Simpson Helmet Safety Certifications

Simpson motorcycle helmets may carry different safety certifications depending on the model, production year, and intended market.

DOT / FMVSS 218

In the United States, motorcycle helmets intended for road use must meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 218.

A DOT marking represents the manufacturer's certification that the helmet complies with the applicable federal standard. It is not an individual government approval or endorsement.

ECE 22.05 & ECE 22.06

ECE helmet regulations establish motorcycle helmet testing requirements used in many international markets.

ECE 22.06 is a newer standard with updated testing procedures, including additional impact scenarios compared with ECE 22.05.

Selected Simpson models, including the 2026 M30 and Journey Bandit, are listed with ECE 22.06 certification.

Snell Certification

The Snell Memorial Foundation operates an independent helmet certification program with testing requirements distinct from DOT and ECE standards.

Selected Simpson Outlaw Bandit 3 helmets carry Snell M2020 certification.

Because certifications vary across models and production versions, always verify the specific helmet's current markings and manufacturer's specifications before purchasing.

Simpson Helmet Shields, Visors & Accessories

A replacement shield can refresh a worn helmet or change visibility characteristics for different riding conditions.

At Get Lowered Cycles, we carry Simpson replacement shields, internal sun visors, and select Pinlock anti-fog inserts.

Ghost Bandit & Speed Bandit Shields

The Ghost Bandit and Speed Bandit share compatible external replacement shield options on specified versions.

Available finishes include clear, smoke, amber, and select mirrored colors.

Shop Simpson Ghost & Speed Bandit Replacement Shields

Mod Bandit Replacement Shields

The Mod Bandit uses its own external shield design.

Replacement options include different tint and mirrored finishes. Riders should select a shield specifically designated for the Mod Bandit rather than assuming Ghost Bandit shields will fit.

Outlaw Bandit 3 Replacement Shields

The revised Outlaw Bandit 3 shield mechanism requires compatible Outlaw 3 shields.

Original Outlaw Bandit face shields should not be substituted for the new version.

Pinlock Anti-Fog Inserts

Pinlock inserts use a secondary lens inside a compatible face shield to help reduce fogging.

Pinlock compatibility depends on the exact helmet shield and insert combination. A shield described as Pinlock-ready may not include the insert unless the product listing states otherwise.

Shop Motorcycle Helmet Shields & Accessories

Frequently Asked Questions About Simpson Motorcycle Helmets

What is the difference between the Simpson Ghost Bandit and Mod Bandit?

The Ghost Bandit is a fixed full-face helmet, while the Mod Bandit uses a flip-up modular chin bar. Both offer aggressive styling and integrated sun visor functionality, but the Mod Bandit provides additional convenience when stopped.

Is the Simpson Speed Bandit a good entry-level helmet?

The Speed Bandit is one of Simpson's more affordable full-face motorcycle helmets. Its polycarbonate shell and straightforward design make it an option for riders seeking Simpson styling at a lower price point.

Does the Simpson Ghost Bandit have a built-in sun visor?

Yes. The Ghost Bandit features a retractable internal sun visor that provides an additional tinted viewing option.

Are Simpson motorcycle helmets DOT certified?

Simpson offers DOT-compliant motorcycle helmets, but specific certification markings should always be checked on the individual model. Some versions also carry ECE or Snell certification.

Can I install a Bluetooth communication system in a Simpson helmet?

Many Simpson helmets offer speaker recesses or compatibility with aftermarket communication systems. Installation requirements vary by model and communication device. Never cut or modify the protective shell or impact liner to install electronics.

Are Simpson helmet shields interchangeable?

Only certain models share shield compatibility. Ghost Bandit and Speed Bandit external shields have compatible options, while Mod Bandit and Outlaw Bandit 3 use different designs. Always verify the exact helmet and shield part numbers.

Which Simpson helmet is best for Harley-Davidson touring?

For riders who prioritize modular convenience, the Mod Bandit and Journey Bandit are worth comparing. Riders who prefer fixed full-face construction may favor the Ghost Bandit, M30, or other suitable models. Fit and certified protection should take priority over appearance.

How do I know when to replace my motorcycle helmet?

Follow the manufacturer's replacement and inspection guidance. A helmet that has sustained an impact, shows structural damage, or no longer fits securely may need replacement. Never continue using a helmet with a potentially compromised protective structure.

Shop Simpson Motorcycle Helmets at Get Lowered Cycles

From the iconic Ghost Bandit and versatile Mod Bandit to the Speed Bandit, M30, Outlaw Bandit 3, and Journey Bandit, Get Lowered Cycles offers Simpson motorcycle helmets for a wide range of riding styles.

Browse our Simpson helmet selection above to compare available colors, shell materials, certifications, and sizes.

You can also explore our complete selection of full-face motorcycle helmets and modular motorcycle helmets.

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