Budget Modular Helmet With Some Premium Features

Modular helmets have been around since the 1980s, but in recent years their versatile design has become even more popular with motorcycle riders, specifically among older bikers, longer distance tourers, and riders who may not be in a position to shell out the bucks for $500+ premium helmets. So we decided to take a look at more affordable options in the modular space, and found one among our friends at Cycle Gear.

The BILT Nomad Modular Motorcycle Helmet is a budget-friendly option designed for riders seeking versatility and convenience without emptying their wallets. The flip-up modular design aims to combine the protection of a full-face helmet with the flexibility of an open-face model, making it a popular choice for casual riders, commuters, and tourers alike. Let’s take a look at some of the Nomad’s features, performance, and overall value, after using the helmet for a few months in various conditions.

Cycle Gear’s BILT Nomad modular helmet.

Design and Build Quality

The BILT Nomad features an injection-molded polycarbonate shell with an aggressive aerodynamic shape designed for performance. Weighing approximately 3.88 lbs, it’s on par with many mid-range helmets of this type, though some riders note it feels slightly heavier than premium brands like Shoei or Schuberth. The modular design feqatures a quick-release, push-button chin bar, allowing riders to easily flip up the front for eating, drinking, or conversing without removing the whole helmet. The chin bar locks securely when closed, though some users we’ve read express concerns about the durability of the hinge mechanism in high-impact scenarios, a common worry with budget modular helmets.

The helmet includes a multi-point ventilation system with chin, forehead, and rear exhaust vents to promote airflow. While effective at keeping riders cool at moderate speeds, we would describe the ventilation as adequate but not exceptional [compared to higher-end models]. The removable, moisture-wicking inner lining with an antimicrobial finish has worked well for me in these “dog days of summer” here in the south.

Nomad in the “chin-up, visor-down” position. I’m liking this helmet.

Features

• Drop-Down Sun Visor: As an older rider forced to wear glasses, the internal sun visor is a standout feature I take advantage of quite often. The visor helps combat glare and is deployable via a simple left-handed switch on the side of the helmet. We’ve read that some riders would like the visor to be a bit darker and thicker, as its flimsiness can cause minor vibrations in crosswinds if the clear visor is in the up position.
• Faceshield: The clear outer visor is easily replaceable, with BILT offering multiple options (plain, mirrored, smoked, and colored). However, some users note that the visor can magnify sunlight, causing discomfort, and fogging issues may require a separate pinlock insert.
• Compatibility: The helmet is designed to accommodate most aftermarket Bluetooth systems, though it lacks integrated Bluetooth like the BILT Techno 3.0 or the Cardo Systems. This makes it versatile for riders who already own a comm system.
• Safety Certification: The Nomad is DOT-certified, meeting U.S. safety standards. However, it does lack SNELL or ECE ratings (as most if not all modulars do), which may concern riders looking for maximum protection.

The “FMVSS” stands for “Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard”, and the “No.218” denotes the motorcycle-specific testing criteria the helmet meets.

Comfort and Fit

The BILT Nomad is praised for its comfortable fit, particularly for riders with average head shapes. The padding is plush, though I felt some initial tightness around my cheeks, but the padding seems to break-in over time. For glasses-wearers, the modular design is a significant advantage, allowing easy helmet removal without taking off my eyewear. However, sizing can be inconsistent, so trying one on in-store is recommended, as some riders find the fit slightly off compared to premium brands.

Noise levels are a mixed bag. The helmet offers moderate sound dampening, but it’s obviously noisier than high-end modular units like the Schuberth C5 or Shoei Neotec II. We’d recommend quality earplugs for highway speeds due to wind noise, especially with the included Bluetooth system in similar BILT models.

Click into the above link, and search around for Cycle Gear’s modular offerings. The Nomad is among them.

Performance

On the road, the BILT Nomad performs well for its price point. The modular functionality is super convenient for quick stops, and the ventilation system keeps me comfortable during casual or urban riding. However, at higher speeds, I’ve detected above average wind noise and visor vibration, which can detract from the riding experience. The helmet’s weight is manageable for short to medium rides but may cause fatigue on longer journeys compared to lighter, more premium options.

In terms of safety, the DOT certification ensures a baseline level of protection, but the lack of SNELL or ECE ratings and concerns about the chin bar’s hinge durability in crashes are notable drawbacks. Riders prioritizing safety may want to consider higher-end modulars with proven crash test performance, such as the Nolan N100-5, which has a stronger track record in chin bar stability.

Out rocking the BILT Nomad while reviewing the Triumph Tiger Sport 800.

Value

With a list price around $159.99, the BILT Nomad is a compelling option for budget-conscious riders. It offers features typically found in more expensive helmets, such as the drop-down sun visor and of course the modular design, at a fraction of the cost. Compared to competitors like the ILM 902 or LS2 Strobe, the Nomad holds its own in terms of comfort and features, though both of my BILT helmets lag a bit in ventilation (cooling) and noise reduction.

The adage “you get what you pay for” definitely applies here. While the Nomad provides solid value, its build quality, noise levels, and lack of advanced safety certifications can’t match premium brands like Arai, Shoei, Shuberth and even its sister helmet brand Sedici (another Cycle Gear brand).  Riders on a tight budget or those who prioritize convenience over top-tier performance will most likely find it satisfactory, but serious tourers or safety-focused riders may want to save up for higher-end options.

Helmet with the internal flip-down visor activated. Works great with my glasses.

Pros

• Affordable price point (~$159.99)
• Convenient modular design with quick-release chin bar
• Comfortable fit, especially for eyeglass wearers
• Drop-down sun visor for glare protection
• Removable, washable, antimicrobial lining
• Accepts most aftermarket Bluetooth systems
• Good chin curtain for winter riding

Cons

• Only DOT(MVSS-218) certified, lacking SNELL or ECE ratings
• Noisier than many premium modular helmet models
• Sun visor and outer faceshield can feel flimsy and vibrate in stronger crosswinds
• Ventilation is adequate but not exceptional
• Potential concerns with chin bar hinge durability in crashes
• Slightly heavier than high-end competitors

That’s a lot of moving parts, which accounts for why very few (if any) modulars ever qualify for Snell ratings.

My Concluding Observations

The BILT Nomad Modular Motorcycle Helmet is a solid choice for budget-conscious riders seeking a versatile, feature-packed helmet for shorter casual rides or local commuting. Its modular design, drop-down sun visor, and reasonably comfortable fit make it appealing for everyday riding, particularly for those who wear glasses, need a cool drink when hot, with value convenience and affordability. However, its limitations in noise reduction, ventilation, and safety certifications, along with concerns about the chin bar’s durability, make it less ideal for high-speed or long-distance riding. For riders prioritizing value and convenience, the Nomad is a worthwhile option, but those seeking premium performance may want to explore the modular offerings from Sedici, Shoei, Schuberth, or HJC.

Special thanks for the fine folks at Cycle Gear for the ongoing support and providing exceptional products for the Road Dirt crew to test and review.

Please leave a comment around your thoughts and/or questions: what’s your take on BILT brand helmets? On modular helmets in general? Let’s talk about it!

Phil “MotoPG” Gauthier