I always bought a cheap DOT just to have for states that required them.I use to wear a cheap beanie novelty helmet.I never thought of spending over $50-60 on any helmet until I tried the HD hybrid model.It is lighter than carbon fiber or any novelty.It has vents and removable liner.I don't even know I have it on,it is so light.That said they are very pricey,and would never pay what they ask,so I found mine on clearance for $100.Best money I ever spent on a helmet,IMHO.

 

My wife picked me up an Outlaw AX 30030 carbon fiber for about $70. That's the cheapest I've seen for a real CF 1/2 helmet and they are nice and light...also low profile which I've found helps with the buffeting....Oh, and no mushroom head either.

 

I wear a white Ruby. The best helmet i've ever ride even better than my 3/4 Arai (for winter)
You can see them at http://www.ateliersruby.com/

 

X2

I went back and forth with my dealer when buying my bike and when I had an acceptable deal I said, OK, throw in two Hybrid helmets and its a deal. It took several hours but they called back and said they would do it.

The wife and I both love the HD Hybrid's. They were priced at $239.00 each. Very pricey, but extremely light and very comfy. Hers even has a gap at the back for her pony tail, she loved that.

 

If money is not a big issue, look at the Super Seer helmets. If mony is a big issue, I would say look at the Vega helmets. They are affordable and have a fairly low profile for DOT helmets. My wife rfeally likes the one she just bought.

 

+1 on the Super Seer mod. 1602.Had mine for 3 yrs,39K mi. and love it.Ive had Shoei and HJC 1/2 helmets and the Seer is by far the best fit and look imo. They're a little pricey $265.00 or so.20+ yrs. on anti-seizure meds. due to a "bump on the head" is not something I want to go through again.The Seer is a little heavier than the HJC or Shoei but didn't take long to get used to it.It's got a
nap-strap so you can snug it down comfortably,great communication acc.,cool cap is a must for me also.If you're looking for something just to keep your self out of court it's over kill.Heck 30 yrs. ago I got across Nevada with a white plastic K Mart salad bowl tied to my head.I wear mine all the time and wouldn't trade.

 

+1. Yep....Skid Lid is the cheapest and best looking DOT half helmet out there. I also have a RDX(Ridex) DOT and it's right up there. Both nothing fancy and don't look stupid. I have the Scorpion too...It's really a good half helmet, well made, lots of features, etc, etc. It's a little big/wide and honestly is a little funny looking while on. ALSO and more importantly IMO...Lots of front wind resistance with the Scorpion....If any wind hits the Scorpion your head is gonna rock some....as speed increases it will get worse.. If you're a 55-60mph rider it won't be a problem....

 

Head Trip - they are absolutely great to work with. I like the lid also.