LS2 Pioneer 2 Helmet Review - Budget-Friendly Adventure HELMET

DATE: 01/09/2025

Today, I’m reviewing the LS2 Pioneer 2, the successor to the LS2 Pioneer Evo that I previously owned. While it isn’t necessarily a big upgrade, it’s the natural next version in the Pioneer line – and for the price, it’s hard to ignore.

This helmet is a solid budget-friendly adventure Helmet that offers good comfort, safety, and features without breaking the bank. Let’s take a closer look.

Fit and Comfort

I picked up the XL size (61–62cm), and it fits me perfectly. After several thousand miles of riding, the interior padding hasn’t degraded, softened, or created any uncomfortable movement. It still feels snug, supportive, and comfortable on longer rides.

The adventure-style peak gives it the right look, while the internal drop-down sun visor is easy to reach and use even with gloves on. The main visor also moves smoothly and clicks securely into place.

The helmet shell is made from polycarbonate, which feels solid and doesn’t flex. Overall, it feels like a well-built, dependable lid.

Features

• ECE 22.06 safety rating (plus the UK gold sticker for peace of mind).

• Removable, washable lining – plush, easy to keep fresh.

• Multiple vents for airflow (chin, side, and top).

• Internal sun visor operated by a simple slider.

• Adjustable peak – can be repositioned slightly by loosening the screws,  it can also be removed

• Prepared for intercom systems – LS2 sells their own, but even my cheap setup fits fine thanks to the dedicated speaker and mic cutouts.

• Micrometric ratchet strap – simple to use with gloves.

• Pinlock-ready visor – and I recommend fitting one.

The Downsides

For a budget helmet, the LS2 Pioneer 2 really does hold up well, but there are some compromises:

1. Visor positions – It’s either fully up or fully down. There are no halfway stops, which means less flexibility for airflow.

2. Fogging – Without a Pinlock insert, the visor mists up easily, even in warmer months. The insert is essential.

3. Noise at speed – Up to 70 mph it’s fine, but once you’re cruising at motorway speeds the helmet gets noisy. Earplugs are a must.

4. Peak turbulence – At higher speeds, especially behind a screen (like on my V-Strom), the peak catches the wind and creates some buffeting.

Value for Money

This is where the LS2 Pioneer 2 really shines. For green laning and adventure riding, I don’t want to spend £400+ on a helmet that I’m going to scratch, drop, or stick in the mud. The Pioneer 2 lets me ride without worrying, while still giving me the protection and features I need.

It looks good, feels comfortable, and doesn’t have the over-styled design of some adventure lids. It just works.

Where to Buy

The LS2 Pioneer 2 is widely available online from retailers like SportsBikeShop, Amazon, and eBay. If you’re unsure of your size, SportsBikeShop has a great free returns policy – order a couple of sizes, try them at home, and keep the one that fits best.

Final Thoughts

The LS2 Pioneer 2 is a great choice if you’re after a safe, stylish, and budget-friendly adventure helmet. Yes, it’s noisy and the visor setup could be better, but for the money it’s hard to fault.

If you’re after a solid everyday adventure lid that won’t make you nervous about a few scratches, this one deserves a place on your shortlist