The Simpson Bandit helmet has been around for decades, but it really took off when Top Gear's mysterious test driver The Stig kept showing up on TV in something that looked a lot like it. (For the record, The Stig actually wore the Simpson Diamondback — an automotive racing helmet that meets Snell SA standards.) The aggressive shape stuck, Harley riders started gravitating to Simpson's motorcycle lineup, and the Street Bandit and Outlaw Bandit became some of the most-requested "outlaw style" helmets on the market. If that look is your thing — angular shell, narrow eye port, mean stance — here are four helmet picks that scratch the same itch at different price points, plus the current model equivalents we stock.
Simpson Bandit-Style — The Original Outlaw Silhouette
Narrow eye port, angular chin bar, instantly recognizable shell shape — the original outlaw look.
Simpson's Bandit family is a DOT-approved full-face that translates Simpson's automotive racing aesthetic onto a motorcycle helmet. Composite shell, EPS impact liner, removable/washable interior, and a face shield with Pinlock-ready optics. The narrow eye port that defines the look does cut peripheral vision compared to a touring helmet, so if open visibility matters more than the look, consider the alternatives below.
Current models we stock: the Simpson Outlaw Bandit Full Face Helmet (the spiritual successor to the original Street Bandit) and the Simpson Ghost Bandit Full Face Helmet. Browse the full Simpson helmet lineup for color and graphic options.
Biltwell Gringo-Style — Bandit Aesthetic on a Budget
As close to the Bandit silhouette as you can get without the premium price tag, with Biltwell's all-day rideability.
Built around Biltwell's proprietary ABS shell and a shock-absorbing EPS liner. The chin bar offers strong airflow through three intake vents of increasing size plus side vents; a rear-crown exhaust port pushes hot air out. Most Biltwell intake vents are always open — worth noting if you ride in cold climates. The interior is a hand-stitched brushed Lycra liner over open-cell foam padding that's surprisingly soft for the price, and there's room in the ear pockets for a comm system.
Current models we stock: the Biltwell Gringo S Full Face Helmet (current premium Biltwell full-face) and the budget-priced Biltwell Gringo Full Face Helmet. See the complete Biltwell helmet lineup for color options.
Scorpion EXO-AT960 — Modular Dual-Sport With Attitude
Modular dual-sport helmet with the angular look — and the versatility of MX, full-face, and goggle-compatible modes.
Aggressive, intimidating lines plus Scorpion's full feature stack. 100% UV-A and UV-B protection on the faceshield, Everclear no-fog treatment, a wide eye port for strong peripheral visibility, dual-position chin vent, and adjustable top vents to dial in airflow. The peak/visor is removable, so you can run it as a dual-sport MX helmet with goggles or a street modular with the faceshield. The current AT960 generation adds a flip-up modular chin bar — even more versatile than the AT950 it replaces.
Current model we stock: the Scorpion EXO-AT960 Modular Dual-Sport Helmet (Topographic graphic).
Scorpion EXO Covert — Three Helmets in One Shell
Convertible 3-in-1 design with futuristic styling — full-face, 3/4, or half-helmet in one shell.
Three pieces make this a truly convertible helmet: the main shell, the chin bar, and the front mask. Run the full setup as a full-face when speeds pick up, drop the chin bar for a 3/4 style around town, or strip down to a half-helmet for hot-weather city riding. The styling lands somewhere between futuristic space warrior and outlaw bagger — polarizing, but it's been one of the consistently strong sellers in the category.
Current model we stock: the Scorpion EXO Covert X Modular Helmet (the modular descendant of the original Covert).
Quick Comparison
- Closest to the Bandit look on a budget: Biltwell Gringo S
- If you want the original: Simpson Outlaw Bandit
- Need dual-sport flexibility: Scorpion EXO-AT960
- Need full-face / 3/4 / half-helmet versatility in one shell: Scorpion EXO Covert X
Shop Outlaw-Style Helmets
Chaparral Motorsports stocks the full Simpson, Biltwell, and Scorpion EXO lineups along with helmets from Bell, Icon, AGV, HJC, and more. Browse our motorcycle helmets or call our parts counter at 1-800-841-2960 to get sized.
Safety Notice & Disclaimer
This article is provided for general informational purposes only. Helmet pricing, certifications, color and feature availability change over time — verify current specifications and certifications directly with the manufacturer or our parts counter before purchase.
No motorcycle helmet eliminates the risk of injury or death in a crash. Proper fit is critical: a helmet that is loose, undersized, or not properly fastened may not provide its rated protection. Replace any helmet that has been involved in a crash, even if no damage is visible. Always ride with the chin strap fully fastened. Chaparral Motorsports is not responsible for injury, damage, or loss arising from the use of products discussed in this article.
