Introduction: Why This Comparison Matters
A helmet isn’t just another piece of gear for motor officers — it’s a partner on every shift. Comfort, safety, and reliability can make the difference between a smooth day on patrol and a fatiguing one. Two helmets are vying for the top spot: the all-new HJC F100 Carbon and the established LS2 Advant X Carbon.
Although both helmets are marketed to civilian riders, this comparison focuses specifically on how each model performs in the demanding daily environment of police motor officers. The evaluation categories are drawn directly from officer feedback, reflecting the features, functions, and specifications that matter most in the field — those that make the job safer, more efficient, and more comfortable during long shifts. Here’s how we broke down the comparison test.
Scoring Rubric (0–10 scale per category)
- 10 = Best-in-class – Significantly outperforms peers, sets the standard.
- 7 = Above average – Performs well, noticeable advantages in daily use.
- 5 = Meets baseline – Adequate, functional, meets duty standards.
- 3 = Below average – Noticeable shortcomings, creates challenges in duty use.
- 1 = Unacceptable – Fails to meet LE duty needs or standards.
Helmet Scoring Framework
Categories & Weights (suggested for LE duty use)
- Performance (Shell Ventilation, Chin Bar Ventilation, Road Noise, Stability): 40 Points
- Features (Visors, Modular Function, Sunshield, Accessories): 40 Points
- Comfort / Ergonomics (Fit, Weight, Padding): 30 Points
- Safety & Reliability (Certifications, Retention): 20 Points
- Value / TCO (Price, Warranty): 20 Points
TOTAL POINTS AVAILABLE: 150
Specs at a Glance
| Category |
HJC F100 Carbon |
LS2 Advant X Carbon |
| Shell |
Full carbon fiber |
Full carbon fiber |
| Outer Shell Sizes |
3 |
2 |
| Weight |
1659 grams (3.66 lbs) |
1786 grams (3.94 lbs) |
| Modular/Flipback |
Yes |
Yes |
| Ventilation |
Advanced Channeling Ventilation System : Full front-to-back airflow with channeled EPS |
Fully adjustable, multi-port dynamic, flow through ventilation with channeled EPS |
| Outer Visor |
Clear, Includes Pinlock Insert |
Clear and Dark Smoke Included, Includes Pinlock Insert |
| Inner Sun Visor |
Dark Smoke |
Dark Smoke |
| Certification |
DOT |
DOT |
| Finish |
High gloss clear coat, UV resistant |
Matte clear coat, UV resistant |
| MSRP |
$459 (Solid Color) |
$599 (Solid Color) |
PERFORMANCE
Ventilation (Shell)
HJC Score: 7/10
LS2 Score: 5/10
HJC F100 Carbon: The large air scoop on the top of the helmet pulls noticeable airflow through the helmet, making a difference in hot climates. The air channels molded into the EPS liner helps move air across the head. The redesigned exhaust vents keep air moving even in stop-and-go duty.
LS2 Advant X Carbon: This helmet also features air intake vents and an air channeled interior. Ventilation is adequate for civilian riders, but officers often find the helmet hot in summer or during traffic duty.
The HJC F100 Carbon features 4 air intake holes and 6 air exhaust holes molded into the EPS liner. The LS2 Advant X Carbon features 2 air intake holes and 2 air exhaust holes molded into the EPS liner. Are 10 air holes better than 4? We think so.
Winner: HJC – with larger intake and exhaust vents, better EPS channeling, and a highly effective chin bar vent that helps prevent fogging, the F100 Carbon delivers superior airflow. The LS2 provides adequate ventilation for civilian use, but many officers report it runs hotter during summer and traffic duty.
Ventilation (Chin Bar)
HJC Score: 8/10
LS2 Score: 5/10
HJC F100 Carbon: A nice feature of the HJC is a very large and direct chin bar vent which directs fresh air directly onto the inside of the clear visor which helps to prevent fogging. This was clearly a point of emphasis for HJC and it shows. Any motor officer will recognize how important this can be during cold call outs or early morning shifts.
LS2 Advant X Carbon: The chin bar vent on the LS2 is much smaller and almost feels like an afterthought compared to the HJC. The HJC F100 Carbon definitely gets the nod for chin bar ventilation.
Shared Performance: Both helmets offer similar intake and exhaust vent designs. The rubber seals and road noise are evenly matched, with both helmets having improved upon previous models. Despite improvements, both helmets remain hot overall due to their mass and modular construction. Road noise levels are also comparable between the two, though officers should note that both helmets are louder than premium full-face helmets such as HJC’s RPHA line.
Winner: HJC – cooler under pressure, literally.
Stability at Speed
HJC Score:8/10
LS2 Score: 8/10
HJC F100 Carbon: Feels secure and well-planted at both patrol and pursuit speeds. The shell’s aerodynamics and balanced weight distribution minimize buffeting and provide confidence whether the chin bar is open or closed.
LS2 Advant X Carbon: Likewise stable in most conditions, though some officers have noted a touch more wind lift when riding with the chin bar up. Overall, weight distribution remains solid and balanced.
Shared Performance: Both helmets feel well-balanced, stable, and secure regardless of chin bar position. Despite the relatively heavy weight of modular carbon helmets, their designs keep them planted and predictable at duty speeds.
Winner: Tie – both helmets inspire confidence at speed, with HJC offering a slight edge in reducing buffeting.
Road Noise
HJC Score: 7/10
LS2 Score: 5/10
HJC F100 Carbon: Officers reported that road noise presents primarily as a steady wind rush, rather than high-frequency turbulence. While not “quiet” by touring helmet standards, the sound profile is more consistent, making it easier to maintain comms clarity at highway speeds. Users also found the HJC F100 Carbon to be noticeably quieter than the LS2 during normal conversations with the helmet on. This allows the officer to hear dispatch better but may be an obstacle during traffic stops.
LS2 Advant X Carbon: Feedback indicates that road noise levels are slightly higher and have a sharper, higher-pitched character, which can interfere with headset audio and make routine conversations more difficult when the helmet is worn.
Shared Performance: Both helmets are louder than high-end full-face helmets (such as HJC’s RPHA line), due to the modular design and added weight. Neither model was tested with instrumented decibel measurements; findings are based on user feedback and road tests.
Winner: HJC – produces a quieter, more consistent noise profile that supports clearer communication both on the road and in normal conversation.
FEATURES
Visors
HJC Score: 5/10
LS2 Score: 8/10
HJC F100 Carbon: While HJC does not publish a specific degree of peripheral vision, fit tests suggest a wider field of view than the LS2. The clear outer lens is operated by dual handles on the left and right lower edges, giving officers more flexibility, though removal is more complicated and requires careful alignment. Like the LS2, the HJC accepts the included Pinlock antifog lens, and the inner sunshield is activated by a lower-left slider switch. Sealing performance is excellent, with a firm rubber seal, and the helmet features a large, direct chin bar vent that channels airflow effectively to the face shield.
LS2 Advant X Carbon: LS2 Advant X Carbon: The LS2 advertises 215 degrees of peripheral vision, which provides solid situational awareness for officers on patrol. The clear outer lens uses a central handle for opening and closing, and it can be quickly and easily removed for maintenance or replacement. The shield is compatible with the included Pinlock antifog inner lens, a helpful feature during cold or rainy duty. The only drawback is the marginal chin bar venting system. The inner sunshield deploys with a slider switch located on the lower left edge of the helmet, allowing fast adjustments with a gloved hand. The rubber seal compresses firmly, ensuring a tight closure against weather.
Winner: LS2 – with a published 215° field of vision, a central handle for easy operation, and a quick-release mechanism for fast shield changes, the Advant X Carbon provides superior visor function. While the HJC offers excellent sealing and flexibility with dual handles, its visor removal process is more complicated, making the LS2 the more practical choice for officers.
Modular Function
HJC Score: 8/10
LS2 Score: 8/10
HJC F100 Carbon: The hinge mechanism feels tight and deliberate, and the flipback locks with authority. After hours of patrol, reduced neck fatigue is a major benefit. The chin bar locks firmly into both the down (closed) and up (open) positions. A notable feature is the secondary locking lever on the left side, which secures the chin bar in the open position — a detail appreciated for added confidence when riding with the bar flipped back. The lock is easy to engage with a gloved hand, though it’s uncertain how often officers would use it in daily patrol. The movement of the chin bar is smooth, and the mechanism conveys a sense of strength and durability suitable for long-term duty use. Many operators have commented that the central chin bar release lever feels like a hook, making it easy to locate and operate without hesitation.
LS2 Advant X Carbon: The LS2’s chin bar flips back securely, but over time, some officers have reported that the mechanism can feel looser with heavy daily use. While still functional, the latch doesn’t feel as precise or confidence-inspiring as the HJC’s. The LS2 does not include a secondary lock for the open position, relying instead on the natural hinge detent to hold it in place. That said, officers familiar with the LS2 find the flip-up action simple, quick, and effective for traffic stops and conversations with the public. Some have commented that the central chin bar release button is small and can be difficult to locate with a gloved hand.
- Chin Bar: Each chin bar contains a pre-installed chin curtain. The chin curtain is a piece of fabric that is attached to the chin bar and rotates up and down with the movement of the chin bar. The HJC chin curtain is screwed into the chin bar, making it harder to remove when it interferes with boom microphones. (Note: Super Seer can remove this curtain upon purchase to ease integration with comm systems.) On the positive side, the inner chin bar volume is noticeably larger, offering extra space for officers with larger faces or those wearing integrated comm systems like those from Setcom Corporation.
- The inner volume of the LS2’s chin bar feels restrictive compared to the HJC. However, the chin curtain is removable via snaps, letting officers eliminate interference with boom microphones — something many motor officers will appreciate.
Shared Performance: Both helmets offer the convenience of an “Auto-Up” feature, automatically lifting the clear outer visor when the chin bar is raised. This ensures that the shield doesn’t interfere during officer interactions. Unlike HJC’s i100 model, however, the F100 Carbon does not include an “Auto-Down” function.
Winner: Tie – both helmets provide reliable modular function with secure flip-back operation and convenient “Auto-Up” visor lift. The HJC offers a sturdier hinge, smoother motion, and a secondary lock for added security, while the LS2 counters with a snap-out chin curtain that many officers find more practical for daily comms use. Each helmet has clear strengths, making this category too close to call.
Sunshield
HJC Score: 8/10
LS2 Score: 7/10
HJC F100 Carbon: The inner sunshield is activated by a lower-left slider switch. This switch is smooth and effortless. It almost feels too easy to deploy.
LS2 Advant X Carbon: The inner sunshield deploys with a slider switch located on the lower left edge of the helmet, allowing fast adjustments with a gloved hand. This switch is tighter than the HJC and requires force and concentration to move the switch.
Winner: HJC – with a smoother and more effortless slider mechanism, the F100 Carbon’s sunshield is easier to operate, especially during long shifts. The LS2’s stiffer slider works reliably but requires more effort and concentration, which can be less convenient in daily patrol use.
Communications and Accessories
HJC Score: 7/10
LS2 Score: 9/10
HJC F100 Carbon: The HJC helmet provides a larger, more open crown area that accommodates decals, the
Super Seer Motor Badge,
FlexBadges, and even metal helmet badges. With an available height of 95mm from the shell edge to the front vent, nearly any department insignia or badge can be applied. For communications, the recessed speaker pockets measure 2" diameter x ¼" deep—slightly shallower than the LS2—so deeper speakers may not sit fully flush. However, installation of comms equipment is significantly easier thanks to independent cheek pads, which allow quick removal and straightforward headset mounting. The
Setcom MOCS2 Bluetooth internal mount headset will fit perfectly in either helmet. The HJC F100 Carbon is not setup for HJC’s Smart Bluetooth system (sadly). We would have loved to see the Smart 50B Bluetooth headset in this helmet. For now, you will need to install a universal Bluetooth system like the Sena 50S or Cardo Packtalk Edge system. Additional accessories include: helmet carrying bag.
LS2 Advant X Carbon: The LS2 helmet features a small section on the crown that can accommodate decals or
Super Seer’s new Motor Badge. The available space measures 70mm in height, though the angled vent design can limit usable area. The Motor Badge is the only 3D badge that fits the LS2; the helmet does not accept FlexBadges or metal helmet badges. For communications, the LS2 offers large, recessed speaker pockets (2" diameter x ½" deep), providing ample room for speakers. However, the cheek pads and neck roll are one-piece, making headset installation more difficult and time-consuming for officers. LS2 has discontinued the Cardo 4X system which was a “drop-in” Bluetooth system for the LS2 helmet. We have been informed that a new system is on the way and we will update this comparison with any new information. Additional accessories include: An extra Dark Smoke Outer Lens, a helmet carrying bag and an LS2 backpack.
Winner: HJC – greater flexibility for insignia and badges, easier comm installs, and a more agency-friendly design.
Fit
HJC Score: 9/10
LS2 Score: 7/10
HJC F100 Carbon: Officers immediately notice a lighter, better-balanced helmet. The opening in the front cheek area of the helmet is noticeably wider - measuring 85mm (more than four fingers across) - making donning and doffing easier, even for officers wearing glasses. The cheek pad design is less aggressive and feels much more comfortable in the cheek area.
LS2 Advant X Carbon: Familiar to many officers, but slightly heavier. The major drawback, however, is the very tight opening at the front of the helmet. Many users describe the fit as “chewing their cheeks,” due to the cheek pads pressing in aggressively. The opening measures only 35mm (about the width of two fingers), creating a snug fit that can be uncomfortable for extended duty wear.
Winner: HJC - with a wider 85mm opening, balanced weight, and less aggressive cheek pads, the F100 Carbon provides a more comfortable and practical fit for long duty shifts, while the LS2’s tighter 35mm opening and aggressive padding can cause discomfort over time.
Weight
HJC Score: 9/10
LS2 Score:8/10
HJC F100 Carbon weighs in at 3.66 pounds (XL size).
LS2 Advant X Carbon weighs in at 3.94 pounds (XL size).
Lighter is better, your neck will thank you.
Winner: HJC – at 3.66 lbs compared to the LS2’s 3.94 lbs, the F100 Carbon is noticeably lighter. For motor officers wearing a helmet all day, every ounce matters — lighter is better, and your neck will thank you.
Padding
HJC Score: 8/10
LS2 Score: 7/10
HJC F100 Carbon: Foam padding is soft yet supportive, allowing for long-shift wear without discomfort.
LS2 Advant X Carbon: The cheek pads are thick and aggressively shaped. LS2 also sells thin cheek pads which provide relief in the cheeks and face.
Winner: HJC – with softer, more supportive foam padding, the F100 Carbon delivers greater comfort for long-shift wear. While LS2 offers optional thinner cheek pads to ease pressure, its standard pads are more aggressive and less comfortable out of the box.
Safety
Retention
HJC Score: 6/10
LS2 Score: 10/10
The HJC uses traditional Double “D” rings for its retention system.
The LS2 uses a micro-ratchet quick release buckle, which is preferred by many motor officers for its speed and ease of use during frequent stops.
Winner: LS2 – the micro-ratchet quick-release buckle is faster and easier to use during frequent stops, making it the preferred retention system for most motor officers compared to HJC’s traditional Double D-rings.
Certifications
HJC Score: 10/10
LS2 Score: 10/10
HJC F100 Carbon: Meet and/or exceed DOT FMVSS218 standards. - Score: 10/10
LS2 Advant X Carbon: Meets and/or exceeds DOT FMVSS 218 standards. - Score:10/10
Winner: Tie – Both helmets meet/exceed DOT certifications.
Value
Price
HJC Score: 9/10
LS2 Score: 7/10
HJC F100 Carbon: $459.00 (Solid Gloss Carbon)
LS2 Advant X Carbon: $599.00 (Solid Matte Carbon)
Pricing for LE specific colors such as White with Carbon Fiber High Trim, can be obtained by Requesting a Quote.
Winner: HJC – at $459 compared to the LS2’s $599, the HJC F100 Carbon delivers strong performance and features at a lower cost, making it the better value for agencies mindful of budget.
Warranty
HJC Score: 8/10
LS2 Score: 10/10
HJC F100 Carbon: 3-year warranty
LS2 Advant X Carbon: 5-year warranty
Important Note for Law Enforcement: Regardless of the manufacturer’s stated warranty, it is strongly recommended that helmets used for daily police duty be replaced every 2–3 years. The combination of long shifts, heavy sun exposure, sweat, and chemicals takes a toll on the shell, padding, and retention systems well before the warranty period expires.
Winner: LS2 – with a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty compared to HJC’s 3 years, LS2 offers longer coverage on paper. However, for law enforcement duty use, both helmets should be replaced every 2–3 years regardless of warranty length.
Final Verdict
Both helmets meet the demands of law enforcement duty, but in this head-to-head, the HJC F100 Carbon edges ahead. It delivers comfort, ventilation, stability, and quieter performance — all at a lower price point. For agencies prioritizing ease of comms installs and extended warranty coverage, the LS2 Advant X Carbon still holds value. But for most motor units, the HJC represents the smarter, more officer-friendly choice.
Final Word:
Motor officers deserve equipment that works as hard as they do. The HJC F100 Carbon proves itself as the lighter, cooler, and more comfortable option that reduces fatigue and saves money up front. The LS2 Advant X Carbon brings useful perks like a quick-release buckle, snap-out chin curtain, and longer warranty. But when it comes to day-in, day-out patrol duty, the HJC F100 Carbon earns the edge — designed to keep officers sharper, safer, and more effective on every shift.
Final Score – Broken Down by Category
| Category |
Available Points |
HJC F100 Carbon |
LS2 Advant X Carbon |
| Performance |
40 |
30 |
23 |
| Features |
40 |
28 |
32 |
| Comfort / Ergonomics |
30 |
24 |
20 |
| Safety & Reliability |
20 |
16 |
20 |
| Value / TCO |
20 |
17 |
17 |
Total
|
150
|
115
|
112
|
Equip your officers with gear that works as hard as they do.
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