The Minns Labor Government is helping motorcyclists make smarter, safer choices before hitting the road, today releasing new motorcycle helmet safety ratings that show the best protection doesn't have to come with the biggest price tag.
The latest CRASH helmet safety results reveal the Nitro MX780 UNO, retailing for around $200, has scored a four-star safety rating, performing on par with helmets costing more than six times as much.
The Kabuto F17 GP MIPS was named Best Safety Helmet, while the Nitro MX780 UNO took out Best Value Helmet in the 2025 Consumer Rating and Assessment of Safety Helmets (CRASH) program.
CRASH, a consortium of government agencies and the Australian Motorcycle Council, independently and rigorously tests around 30 helmets annually against a range of criteria.
Tests include measuring impact protection, noise, ventilation, field of view and resistance to fogging.
All helmets sold in NSW must meet minimum standards, but CRASH has an additional series of more rigorous tests that compare their performance against each other.
Of the 30 motorcycle helmet models tested in 2025, five received a four-star rating for safety protection.
The results give riders the information they need to choose the safest option for their riding style and budget.
The top helmets in the 2025 ratings are:
| Helmet Name | Safety Protection | Comfort | Type | RRP |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nitro MX780 UNO | ★★★★ | ★★★ | Dual Sport | $200 |
| Airoh Connor | ★★★★ | ★★★ | Full face | $305 |
| Shoei Neotec 3 (full face mode) | ★★★★ | ★★★ | Flip up | $1,400 |
| Kabuto F17 GP MIPS | ★★★★ | ★★★ | Full face | $1,400 |
| Shot Core 2024 MIPS | ★★★★ | ★★ | Motocross | $380 |
Research shows wearing a motorcycle helmet can reduce the risk of death by up to 42 per cent and the risk of head injury by 69 per cent if a rider is involved in a crash.
However, just wearing a helmet is not enough to provide full protection to motorcyclists in a crash, and protective clothing also plays an important role in safety for riders.
The release of these results coincides with Motorcycle Awareness Month and landmark reforms to the NSW Motorcycle Graduated Licensing Scheme (MGLS), announced today.
Riders can explore the full 2025 CRASH helmet ratings and subscribe for MotoCAP updates at MotoCAP.
Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said:
"Motorcycle riders are some of our most at risk road users, that's why choosing the correct helmet is so important.
"These results show you don't have to spend a fortune to protect your head or save your life. The data we release today ensures NSW motorcyclists can make an informed choice for their riding style and budget. Some of the more affordable options can perform just as well as one that costs over a thousand dollars.
"Choosing the right helmet can be the difference between life and death. CRASH gives riders the facts they need to stay safe and coupled with programs like MotoCAP, I'm proud we are backing programs that help riders choose the right gear from head to toe.
"The Minns Labor Government is building a better, safer NSW and is investing in the infrastructure, technology and information that save lives on our roads."
