A popular choice among Harley-Davidson riders, Simpson Helmets offer a premium modular solution for all riders. Sold in some markets as the Mod Bandit, the Darksome (tested here in Flat Alloy) works particularly well as a touring lid.
Our setup included an iridium visor (an additional $115 on top of the standard $799 purchase price). Switching out the stock version was as easy as unscrewing two clasps and swapping it out. To find out whether its popularity is for aesthetic reasons, we took it to launch.
That event, covering two days for the BMW R 1300 range, would allow us to see just how capable it was, in an uncompromising fashion. In changing conditions, some enthusiastic speeds would form our first insights into how the helmet performs.
Modular helmets are generally a little heavier than sports touring offerings and with the Simpson Darksome tipping the scales at approximately 1700 grams, it isn’t the lightest in the segment.
Constructed from a tri-composite (carbon fibre) shell combined with a poly-carbonate alloy chin bar, it achieves ECE 22.06 and Dot certification to ensure your melon is well protected. Safety aside, it’s genuinely impressive.
Despite its weight, the Simpson Darksome felt light on our head. It’s well balanced, offering plenty of ventilation (a massive plus when you’re racking up the kilometres). It isn’t the quietest lid, but is better than some of its rivals.
We will say we didn’t have any hearing issues at the end of a day of riding. At the completion of the launch event, we left feeling pretty positive about our Simpson helmet. In an ironic twist of fate, across a range of tests, Harley-Davidson became its final trial.
In between, we rode a bevy of machines, including Honda’s CB1000 Hornet, and Suzuki’s GSX-8TT, as well as a couple of Ducati offerings. We took in day rides, overnight trips and a few sneaky early morning runs to span a variety of conditions.
The drop down sun visor works well and is easy to operate with one hand, although it’s not quite deep enough. It could do with an additional five to ten millimeters. The modular function works well though, engaging seamlessly, even with thicker gloves.
That final test we mentioned was the 2026 Harley-Davidson model launch at Sydney Motorsport Park, where the Simpson Darksome/Mod Bandit handled duties beautifully, with the modular function being a god send in-between photo shoots, in hot and humid conditions.
The D-shackle fastening system enables the helmet to be used on track too. After six months of testing, we’re happy to confirm the Darksome punches above its weight. It’s capable and stylish, with a unique look.
The latter may not be to everyone’s tastes, but we reckon it looks good. Available in a range of colours, sizing starts from Small, through to XXL. You can find out more on the Simpson Helmets Australia website, or from your local stockist.
Pros – well balanced and comfortable; modular setup is easy to operate; good looking unit.
Cons – heavy for a modular helmet; a little noisy; sun visor not deep enough.
Our test product was provided by Simpson Helmets Australia. Exhaust Notes Australia has not been paid to review this product.
