How to carry a second motorcycle helmet? solutions, safety tips and locks

In a biker's life, you may frequently have to carry a second helmet on your motorcycle. Want some examples? When you hitchhike, when your passenger's usual helmet clashes with the style of your bike, or simply when your grandmother doesn't have the right headgear for her first ride on a Ducati Panigale. In these and other situations, you're probably wondering how to safely carry a 2nd motorcycle helmet. We'll give you all the tips you need!

Side cases, practical and attractive

A helmet in a side case? Yes, it's possible with high-volume models. Shad's SH35, for example, offers no less than 35 liters of carrying capacity each, without completely ruining the curves of your bike. For adventurers, Givi's Monokey Trekker is ideal! It can hold up to 46 liters on each side. More than enough to carry a helmet. "But you gain a lot in width, don't you think? Yes! But it's still less unsightly than a 40-liter top-case, isn't it? Well, to each his own...

----> Motorcycle cases Shad SH35 aluminum hoods

----> GIVI Monokey TREKKER 2x46L Black Line motorcycle case pack

The top-case

Waterproof, secure and resistant, this type of luggage is super efficient. The downside? From an aesthetic point of view, this solution doesn't suit all motorcycles. Have you ever seen a top-case mounted on an S1000rr? However, it does have the advantage of offering sufficient volume to carry one or even two motorcycle helmets.

----> Shad SH59X top case kit + bracket (W0SX10ST) S1000XR 20-

----> Motorcycle top case Kappa KFR580B K-FORCE BLACK

Spider nets, the affordable solution

Both economical and safe, this is the ultimate product for carrying a second helmet from time to time. This expandable net, equipped with sheathed hooks, lets you securely fasten your helmet to your saddle. This solution doesn't detract from the aesthetics of your bike, as with a top case or side cases. The downside is that, in the event of a rainstorm, your helmet's foams will leak.

----> Bering motorcycle helmet net

Saddle bag, as flexible as you like

The ultimate all-rounder! The saddlebag is easily attached to the saddle with straps. Waterproof, with plenty of storage space and expandable as needed, you can safely stow your 2nd motorcycle helmet. What we love? This type of luggage converts into a backpack! Super practical.

----> Bagster SPIDER motorcycle saddle bag 15-23 liters

----> Givi TAILOCK EA147 30-38-liter saddle bag

Tank bag, practical but...

Let's face it: housing a helmet between your torso and your handlebars isn't ideal. It can reduce your freedom of movement and obstruct your view of the dashboard. But? Some models are expandable. So, once you've kindly passed the helmet on to your passenger, you can reduce the size of your tank bag. And then, quite honestly, it's an excellent solution compared to the following...

----> Bagster STUNT EVO tank bag 20-30 liters

----> Bagster SIGNATURE tank bag 18-28 liters

The elbow, the method to be avoided

Millions of years of evolution have given us four limbs. Why on earth not use one of them to hang up your 2nd motorcycle helmet? Well, even if the practice is legal, it's downright dangerous. Not only does it severely restrict your freedom of movement, it's also extremely risky in the event of a fall. It's still the best way to ensure a triple elbow fracture after a double axel.

The backpack, the wrong idea

Do you know the wrestling hold called the Backbreaker? You know, one guy lifts the other up, then "breaks" his back by dropping him back onto his knee. Now you've got the metaphor. So, if you don't want to replicate Rey Mysterio getting "tetraplegic" by Undertaker, avoid it! In fact, helmet bags make sense, but only on foot when you're out for a stroll or a meal. But absolutely not when you're riding!

Helmet slung over the shoulder, the double kiss-kool effect

Even worse than the helmet bag! But why? In addition to the risk of bending your spine if you land on your back in an accident, a helmet slung over your shoulder flaps in the wind, moving around, distracting you and limiting your freedom of movement. "Yeah, but it's only for 2 kilometers, is that okay?". No way! I don't need to remind you that the majority of accidents occur within 10km of your home.

Mounting hook

Present on most bikes, this eyelet allows you to secure your helmet to your bike. But be careful: only use it when you're stationary, otherwise your helmet will go all over the place when you're riding.

And yes, it's all very well sticking to your buddy's helmet, but the trick is not to have it stolen on your first bathroom break. If you do, your buddy is likely to hold a grudge against you. How do you secure your helmet when you go out for a meal or a ride? Here's our selection of products.

The ultra-compact Urban snap hook

With its 4-digit code lock and ultra-strong steel, this carabiner is the must-have in terms of security. What's more, a T-adapter allows you to attach both helmets with micrometric buckles AND those with double-D adjustment. Best of all? It fits in your pocket.

----> Helmet lock URBAN UR140

Abus Combiflex, the multi-purpose lock

The combiflex is not Volkswagen's latest model, but an ingenious anti-theft device. Why ingenious? Its cable design allows you to secure your helmet as well as your luggage. 75cm of cable are available in this ultra-compact, lightweight (90g) pocket reel.

----> ABUS CombiFlex Adventure black helmet/luggage lock

Lockstraps, the 2.0 strap

"What's this? A strap to secure my precious Schuberth? No way! Except that! This brilliant product hides a secret: a super-strong steel cable. A pair of monseigneur pliers is therefore required to get to grips with this innocent strip of fabric. A snap hook with 3-digit lock completes this clever product.

----> Anti-theft Lockstraps 901 2.5ft (76cm)

You now have all the keys to carrying and securing a second helmet on your motorcycle. Despite all your efforts, your passenger still doesn't know how to behave on the back seat? Then share this article on the best practices to adopt to become the ideal sandbag. Happy riding!

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Credit: Header image of pikisuperstar on Freepik