All five modular helmets in this guide carry ECE 22.06 and dual P/J homologation, and they cost between €149 and €229 RRP. The cheapest is the LS2 Strobe II (€149); the lightest, the Caberg Duke X (1,550 g). Official prices checked in October 2026.
| Model | RRP | Weight (size M) | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| LS2 Strobe II | €149 | 1,700 g ±50 | Spending the least |
| HJC C91N | €169.90 | 1,700 g ±50 | City and daily use |
| MT Atom 2 SV | €170 | 1,650 g ±50 | Weight-price balance |
| LS2 Scope II | €179 | 1,750 g ±50 | Medium routes, wider side view |
| Caberg Duke X | €229 (around €195 in stores) | 1,550 g ±50 | The lightest |
Verdict
If you want to spend the least, the LS2 Strobe II. For the best balance of weight and price, the MT Atom 2 SV: 1,650 g for around €170. The Caberg Duke X is the lightest, but its RRP is over €200 and it only fits this guide when discounted.
1. LS2 Strobe II: the cheapest (€149)
The LS2 Strobe II (FF908) is the entry point to ECE 22.06 modulars. KPA shell, chin bar that rotates 90° and an integrated sun visor.
- Price: €149 in solid colours and €169 with graphics (LS2 RRP).
- Weight: 1,700 g ±50.
- Best: the lowest price on the list with a sun visor and dual homologation.
- Worst: it can be somewhat noisy on the motorway at high speeds.
2. HJC C91N: for city and daily use (€169.90)
The C91N is the current ECE 22.06 version of HJC's entry-level modular. Polycarbonate shell, adjustable ventilation, sun visor and a Pinlock-ready visor.
- Price: €169.90 RRP in solid colours and €199.90 with graphics.
- Weight: 1,700 g ±50.
- Best: removable, washable interior and pre-installation for the SMART HJC intercom.
- Best for: commuting.
3. MT Atom 2 SV: the best weight-price balance (€170)
Spanish brand MT redesigned the Atom 2 SV shell: HIRP thermoplastic resin, rear spoiler, sun visor, and a removable chin bar and nose guard.
- Price: around €170 in solid colours and €179.95 with graphics.
- Weight: 1,650 g ±50, the second lightest on the list.
- Best: low weight at an entry-level price, plus intercom pre-installation.
- Keep in mind: only two shell sizes for six helmet sizes.
4. LS2 Scope II: wider side view for medium routes (€179)
The Scope II (FF902) has a slightly longer profile than the Strobe II and a wider visor, with a bigger lateral field of view.
- Price: €179 in solid colours and €199 with graphics (LS2 RRP).
- Weight: 1,750 g ±50, the heaviest on the list.
- Best: lateral field of view and a step up in comfort over the Strobe II.
- Worst: 50 g heavier and €30 more than the Strobe II.
5. Caberg Duke X: the lightest (€229 RRP)
The Duke X replaces the veteran Duke II with a new chin bar opening system that meets ECE 22.06 P/J. Polycarbonate shell, double visor and micrometric buckle.
- Price: €229 RRP; stores sell it for around €195.
- Weight: 1,550 g ±50, the lightest on the list.
- Best: the weight. Its predecessor, the Duke II, scored 5 stars in the SHARP test; we have not found a SHARP rating for the Duke X.
- Worst: at RRP it goes over this guide's budget.
What to look for when buying a budget modular?
- ECE 22.06 homologation: it is the current standard and requires more impact tests than 22.05. Every helmet on this list has it.
- Dual P/J homologation: if you want to ride with the chin bar open, check that the spec sheet says P/J.
- Weight: on this list it ranges from 1,550 to 1,750 g. Every 100 g shows in your neck on long trips.
FAQ: budget modular helmets
Are there any decent mid-range modular helmets (€200-350)?
Yes, but that's a different price bracket: above €200 you start finding lighter materials and better noise insulation, like the LS2 Advant X or the high-end modulars from Shark and HJC. See our LS2, HJC and Shark pages.
Are budget modular helmets actually safe?
If they meet ECE 22.06 homologation, yes. The gap between a budget modular and a premium one usually isn't basic safety, but weight, noise insulation and finish.
