Perhaps no brand represents the American biker as well as Harley-Davidson does, so it comes as little surprise that most Harley loyalists turn to them for more than just bikes, point in case: Harley-Davidson motorcycle helmets. Harley helmets provide the same great commitment to quality and diversity customers have come to expect from the legendary bikes themselves, and the helmets ooze style in that way that only a Harley-Davidson product can.

If they could have their druthers, most bikers would ride sans helmet. But the law is unavoidable, so Harley half-helmets, commonly called beanies, offer a reasonable compromise. By nature, beanies use only as much material as is necessary to “be legal.” The benefit of that is that they are small, lightweight, less restrictive, provide greater visibility and are extremely trendy. In fact, beanies are the most successful line of Harley-Davidson helmets.

A step up from the beanie is the three-quarter motorcycle helmet, often called an open-face helmet, although they usually come with detachable visors or have attachable visors available. Like short helmets or beanies, the three-quarter helmet does not provide chin protection, which may make it seem more comfortable. Unlike beanies, these helmets provide cover for the ears, side of the face and, in some cases, more protection at the back of the neck.

Harley-Davidson Motor Company also manufactures full-face helmets, which provide the greatest level of protection that current technology allows for. The added chin protection, which is sometimes protruding, is the defining feature of a full-face helmet, and in addition to protecting the chin and throat, it provides the support needed for the heavier construction and extra strength. The downside to these helmets is that they can fog up and be overly warm.

Harley also makes modular helmets, such as the very popular flip-up helmet. Modular helmet designs are an attempt to get the best of both three-quarter helmets and full-face helmets. So like a three-quarter, you get the removable visor, but like a full-face helmet, you get the protection at the chin and all of the added support that that brings. The drawback to this design, compared to the full-face design, is that it sacrifices some rigidity and ruggedness.

First-time helmet should be careful not to rush into a potentially bad purchase. Keep your emotions in check, take your time and do your research. Most bike shops have test helmets that you test-drive on the road. Take advantage of these opportunities because choosing the right helmet as about finding the right balance between protection and comfort. No matter what flavor you settle on, you can be sure that Harley-Davidson has the right helmet for you.