Helmets for Fast E-Bikes and Electric Dirt Bikes (Sur-Ron, Talaria)
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Electric dirt bikes like the Sur-Ron Light Bee X and Talaria Sting are everywhere: on trails, in neighborhoods and on the way to school. They're quiet, quick and a lot of fun. They're also much faster than a regular e-bike, and many riders are still wearing a bicycle helmet. This guide explains when you need a real motorcycle helmet and how to pick the right one.
Quick answer
If your e-bike or electric dirt bike can go faster than about 20 to 28 mph, or has no pedals, wear a DOT certified motorcycle helmet, not a bicycle helmet. Choose a full face helmet for street riding, or a dual sport helmet if you ride trails and roads.
E-bike or electric motorcycle? Why it matters
Most U.S. states sort e-bikes into three classes:
| Class | How the motor works | Motor stops helping at |
|---|---|---|
| Class 1 | Pedal assist only | 20 mph |
| Class 2 | Throttle or pedal assist | 20 mph |
| Class 3 | Pedal assist only | 28 mph |
All three classes are limited to motors of 750 watts or less. Electric dirt bikes like the Sur-Ron Light Bee X don't fit these classes: they have no pedals and far more powerful motors. Sur-Ron's own FAQ notes the bike isn't classified as an e-bike in many places. According to Cycle News, the Light Bee X ships limited to 16 mph in some areas, but riders commonly unlock it to 45 to 50 mph. That's motorcycle speed.
Bicycle helmet vs motorcycle helmet
- Bicycle helmets are certified to the CPSC bicycle helmet standard. They're light and well ventilated for pedaling at bicycle speeds, and most leave your face and chin exposed.
- Motorcycle helmets are certified to DOT FMVSS-218, the federal standard for motor vehicle riders. It includes impact, penetration and chin strap retention tests. A full face motorcycle helmet also covers your chin and jaw and adds a face shield.
Downhill mountain bike helmets have chin bars, but they're still bicycle helmets, not DOT motorcycle helmets. If you're riding at motorcycle speeds, wear a motorcycle helmet.
Which helmet style is best for electric dirt bikes?
| How you ride | Best helmet style | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Street and bike lanes, commuting | Full face | Most coverage, a face shield for wind, bugs and rain |
| Trails plus some road | Dual sport | Peak for trails, a face shield for the road, goggle-compatible |
| Mostly off-road, slow and dusty | Dirt bike (motocross) style with goggles | Lightest and best airflow |
| Young riders on smaller e-motos | Youth motocross helmet | Sized for smaller heads |
Not sure about dirt bike vs dual sport? Read What Is a Dual Sport Helmet?
GDM helmets for fast e-bikes and electric dirt bikes
- GDM Ghost: an affordable DOT full face helmet for street and commuting.
- GDM GHOST2 and GDM DEMON: full face helmets with more features.
- GDM BEAST: a dual sport helmet with a removable peak, drop-down sun visor and goggle compatibility. Perfect for Sur-Ron and Talaria riders who mix trails and pavement.
- GDM DK-630 Youth Motocross Helmet: a goggle-style youth helmet with an adjustable, removable peak, in youth sizes S to XL.
Every GDM helmet is DOT certified to FMVSS-218. Browse all DOT approved motorcycle helmets.
Fitting a helmet for teen riders
Many electric dirt bike riders are teenagers, and a helmet that's too big is a common problem. Parents, measure before you buy:
- Wrap a soft tape measure around the widest part of the head, about 1 inch above the eyebrows.
- Compare the measurement with our helmet size chart. Youth sizes run from 49 to 56 cm; adult sizes start at 55 cm.
- Check the fit: snug cheek pads, no wobble when the rider shakes their head, and the helmet shouldn't roll off with the strap fastened.
Full instructions are in How to Measure Your Head for a Motorcycle Helmet.
Don't forget the rest of the gear
- Gloves with knuckle protection. See motorcycle gloves.
- Body armor: elbow, knee and back protection. Our Kids Protection Pads Gear Set is made for young riders.
- Eye protection: a face shield or goggles.
- Sturdy shoes or boots that cover the ankle.
What about the law?
Rules for electric dirt bikes are changing fast and differ by state and city. Many places treat them as off-road motorcycles that can't be ridden on public streets unless they're registered and street legal. Street-legal versions may be registered as mopeds or motorcycles, which can bring helmet requirements. Check your state DMV and local rules, and see our guide to motorcycle helmet laws by state.
E-bike and electric dirt bike helmet FAQ
Do I need a motorcycle helmet for an e-bike?
For Class 1 and 2 e-bikes, a bicycle helmet usually meets the law. For Class 3 e-bikes, faster e-bikes and electric dirt bikes, a DOT motorcycle helmet gives far more protection at higher speeds.
What helmet should I wear on a Sur-Ron?
A DOT certified full face or dual sport motorcycle helmet. Choose dual sport if you ride trails, or full face if you mostly ride on pavement.
Is a full face mountain bike helmet enough for an electric dirt bike?
Downhill mountain bike helmets are built to bicycle standards. At motorcycle speeds, a DOT motorcycle helmet is the safer choice.
What size helmet does my teen need?
Measure their head and use the size chart. Many teens fit adult small or medium; younger riders may need a youth size.
Shop full face motorcycle helmets and dual sport helmets for your e-moto.
