$\""TRI396_020821_ss7143"\"$ <\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div>\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n
\u00a389.99<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>
At 227g, the FS260-PRO\u2019s weight is the leanest here, and it shows. The internal netting prevents detritus venturing into the front of the helmet (our pick for gravel riding) and didn\u2019t seem to have a negative impact on ventilation, as the airflow felt top class via the 14 sizeable channels.<\/p>\n
The internal and antibacterial padding is thick where you need it and minimal when you don\u2019t. Despite Endura\u2019s aerodynamic heritage, they make no claims of drag reduction on the FS260 and there\u2019s no sign of aero trickery on the rear.<\/p>\n
MIPS is absent but the FS260-PRO is covered by Endura\u2019s crash replacement policy and product guarantee, while the retention system is effective, durable and easily adjusted with one hand.<\/p>\n
Verdict: Versatile and durable, comfy and light. A corker! 89% <\/strong><\/p>\n
\u00a0<\/p>\n
Van Rysel Racer <\/strong><\/h3>\n

$\""TRI396_020821_ss7146"\"$ <\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div><\/strong><\/p>\n
\u00a339.99<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>
From Decathlon\u2019s in-house brand Van Rysel, the Racer offers fine ventilation via the 16 mostly vast vents and, as our Silverstone wind-tunnel testing in 2019 proved, superior aerodynamics in wide crosswinds (it was less impressive into direct headwinds).<\/p>\n
The weight of 260g is impressive and among the lightest here. We also like the dual colour scheme for added on-road visibility and the polycarbonate shell that covers the exposed polystyrene.<\/p>\n
Sadly, it loses marks due to the firm front padding, a tricky-to-adjust retention system and straps that tend to loosen the longer you ride. If you want to spend even less, Van Rysel\u2019s \u00a330 RoadR 500 also comes highly recommended.<\/p>\n
Verdict: Well vented, affordable, and sometimes aero, 86%<\/strong><\/p>\n
\u00a0<\/p>\n
Rudy Project Rush<\/strong><\/h3>\n

$\""TRI396_020821_ss7266"\"$ <\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div><\/strong><\/p>\n
\u00a370.99<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>
As the name aptly suggests, every ride in this lean (242g) and aero sculpted lid felt swift, with trickledown tech from Rudy\u2019s high-end offerings clearly at play. But it\u2019s not just aerodynamics on a budget where the Rush seems to excel, with a chin pad, effective retention system and a choice of internal padding thicknesses.<\/p>\n
Ventilation is also impressive via the 21 channels while the straps, after a little fiddle, largely stayed flat. Sadly, Rudy nearly blows all that good work with a precarious height adjustment system that gave us serious sweats over snapping the fitting nodules.<\/p>\n
Doing it wrong would\u2019ve rendered the helmet useless in one movement, an experience we wouldn\u2019t be in a rush to do again.<\/p>\n
Verdict: Feels aero and ventilated, but tricky adjustment, 85%<\/strong><\/p>\n
\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n
Giro Agilis Mips<\/strong><\/h3>\n

$\""TRI396_020821_ss7155"\"$ <\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div><\/strong><\/p>\n
\u00a389.99<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>
The Agilis MIPS truly shines as a do-it-all helmet. We\u2019d happily \u2013 and did \u2013 race, train, commute and ride off-road in this versatile and stylish lid. The intergrated MIPS liner does mean this tips the scales at 292g, but it wasn\u2019t too noticeable unlike the Specialized.<\/p>\n
There are a mighty 32 ventilation channels for breathability, with Giro being one of the few brands here to cite wind-tunnel testing in its design. As with half of the lids here, the polycarbonate shell neatly wraps around the EPS foam for a smarter finish and increased durability.<\/p>\n
The padding is plush, and the Roc Loc 5.5 retention system is effortless to adjust and locate your precise fit. Overall, a winner for a multitude of uses.<\/p>\n
Verdict: Quality construction, safety features and style, 92% <\/strong><\/p>\n
\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n
Bell Forumla Mips<\/strong><\/p>\n

$\""TRI396_020821_ss7153"\"$ <\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div><\/strong><\/p>\n
\u00a389.99<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>
Bell labels the Formula as a \u2018classy all-rounder\u2019 and that feels about right. Best suited to wider heads, it\u2019s relatively light (275g), offers MIPS appeal and a hint of aerodynamics at the helmet\u2019s tail.<\/p>\n
Like many here, the Formula bonds the outer shell to the EPS foam to produce a sturdier, slicker and more durable finish. The 19 ventilation channels and internal padding are effective enough, as are the functional retention system and straps, which stayed twist-free throughout (though had to be cut down).<\/p>\n
The MIPS is neatly integrated into the retention system, keeping the weight and profile down. We\u2019d choose their eye-catching yellow and black option for added visibility and excitement, though.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n
Verdict: Ticks nearly every box, but we\u2019d go for the yellow, 88% <\/strong><\/p>\n
\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n
Smith Optics Persist <\/strong><\/h3>\n

$\""TRI396_020821_ss7149"\"$ <\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div><\/strong><\/p>\n
\u00a394.99<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>
At \u00a395 and 297g, the Persist sits high in the weight-andwallet stakes compared to the rest on test. It offers more backof-the-head coverage than others on test (it\u2019d be one of our offroad choices here) and a durable outer shell that neatly covers the external area of the lid.<\/p>\n
There\u2019s the reassuring presence of MIPS, even if it isn\u2019t as smartly integrated as the Bell or Giro, and the orange colour adds further safety appeal. The padding is plump, but the straps can become entwined with the rear retention system.<\/p>\n
The ratchet dial is easy to adjust on the move, as are the straps, but the latter don\u2019t sit as flush as some around the ears. Ventilation, however, is impressive via the 21 channels.<\/p>\n
Verdict: Solid lid, but pricier and heavier than most here, 78% <\/strong><\/p>\n
\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n
Abus Viantor<\/strong><\/h3>\n

$\""TRI396_020821_ss7157"\"$ <\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div><\/strong><\/p>\n
\u00a384.99<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>
The Viantor from Abus sits lower on the head than many here, which is good for added forehead protection, but there was a slight incursion into field of vision, especially when on the aerobars.<\/p>\n
More an irritation than a full-blown obstruction, but it\u2019s a theme that continues with the slight padding that oddly doesn\u2019t cover each of the internal ridges. Multiple colour options are available and they all look stylish, while our partner likes the ponytail-friendly design.<\/p>\n
Safety is enhanced with the shell covering the bare EPS foam and Abus\u2019s ActiCage reinforcement tech that\u2019s integrated into the EPS. The adjustment system, 269g weight and ventilation via the 18 channels are all adequate.<\/p>\n
Verdict: Functional and stylish enough, if a little pricey, 76% <\/strong><\/p>\n
\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n
Limar Air Star<\/strong><\/h3>\n

$\""TRI396_020821_ss7159"\"$ <\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div><\/strong><\/p>\n
\u00a389.99<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>
The sleek 270g Air Star reminded us of Michael Knight\u2019s car in Knight Rider, but it\u2019s night riding where Limar\u2019s latest seeks an edge over the competition, with the rear retention ratchet turning into a three-mode rear light at the touch of a button.<\/p>\n
It\u2019s a simple but effective aid, even if it isn\u2019t USB-rechargeable (it\u2019s easily removeable if you want to shave 10g). The Air Speed, which sits above the Air Star in Limar\u2019s Revolution range, has scored very highly in our own wind-tunnel tests and the latter would be one of our picks for sub-\u00a3100 aerodynamics.<\/p>\n
There are more ventilated helmets here, but we\u2019re a sucker for a chin pad and the outer red shell covering the EPS foam is slickly done.<\/p>\n
\u00a0<\/strong>Verdict: Smart, light and aero benefits, but could be more vented, 87% <\/strong><\/p>\n
\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n
HJC Atara <\/strong><\/h3>\n

$\""TRI396_020821_ss7162"\"$ <\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div><\/strong><\/p>\n
\u00a375<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>
All of HJC\u2019s helmets have been developed using the Korean brand\u2019s own wind-tunnel facility, an impressive feature for a helmet with a price tag of just \u00a375.<\/p>\n
It shows in the sweeping extended tail and relatively minimal (14) number of ventilation channels, although the latter didn\u2019t negatively affect cooling. Comfort is adequate enough and we like that the outer shell covers much of the EPS foam, though would\u2019ve appreciated more padding.<\/p>\n
Worth noting is that the sizing seemed to run large, the larger design feeling more evident in crosswinds, yet weight is still a lithe 241g, partially due to a lack of an internal rotational safety feature adding extra weight.<\/p>\n
Verdict: Aero on a budget, but beware of the large sizing, 80% <\/strong><\/p>\n
\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n
DHB R2.0 Road<\/strong><\/h3>\n

$\""TRI396_020821_ss7151"\"$ <\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div><\/strong><\/p>\n
\u00a350<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>
DHB is one of our instant picks when recommending affordable yet functional kit and, on the (polycarbonate) surface, the R2.0 ticks those boxes. There\u2019s a low-profile design with an aerodynamic finish at the rear, the chin strap is a welcome touch, and the 273g weight is impressive despite the slender price tag.<\/p>\n
The polycarbonate shell is fused to the EPS foam, but it\u2019s a little untidy at the front and we\u2019d prefer to see the foam fully covered like others on test.<\/p>\n
The ratchet dial feels flimsy and that extends to the slender forehead pad, which feels too thin to prevent the Velcro and helmet ridges behind it pushing into our forehead; they\u2019re also slow to dry during moderately sweaty sets.<\/p>\n
Verdict: Nice shell, but it\u2019s a shame about the pads and finishing, 66% <\/strong><\/p>\n
\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n
Specialized Echelon II Mips<\/strong><\/h3>\n

$\""spec\"$ <\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div><\/strong><\/p>\n
\u00a380<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>
Aided by having their own wind tunnel, Specialized\u2019s Evade helmet is a regular winner of our aero road helmets test.<\/p>\n
The Echelon II is a third of the Evade\u2019s price and it shows, namely in the 338g weight, clearly heavier than all of the lids on test. Some 25-45g of that will come from the additional MIPS liner, but the added weight was especially noticeable late in the day after much wheel turning.<\/p>\n
The Echelon does everything else superbly well, though. Ventilation is aided by 31 sizeable air channels, comfort comes from decent pads, multiple adjustment positions and solid straps. It\u2019s also compatible with Spesh\u2019s ANGi crash detector navigation system. Plus, we love the striking colour choice.<\/p>\n
Verdict: Comfy, stylish and safe. But about 50g too heavy, 76% <\/strong><\/p>\n
\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n
Overall verdict<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Road bike helmets have evolved massively in recent years, and we can now pick helmets that tick the box in terms of safety, style, ventilation, comfort, and aerodynamics.<\/p>\n
If the top-end battle here was close, the \u2018Best Value\u2019 gong had a clear winner in the lean, well-vented and \u00a340 Van Rysel Racer. For those seeking aerodynamics on a sub-\u00a3100 budget, we\u2019d suggest the HJC, Limar or Rudy Project, with Limar just edging Rudy for our \u2018Cutting Edge\u2019 verdict.<\/p>\n
For everyday use on multiple riding surfaces, versatility, comfort, style and safety, however, three helmets shone brightest above the competition. We love the Endura\u2019s lean weight and bug net, while Bell\u2019s Formula is very hard to fault. But it\u2019s the Giro that ticks every box and more, a worthy winner with endless appeal.<\/p>\n
\u00a0<\/strong><\/p><\/body><\/html>\n
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By Matt Baird Published: Friday, 15 October 2021 at 12:00 am Our most recent helmet buyer\u2019s guides have involved the pick of the aero road helmet crop being put through their paces in the wind tunnel (check out the results here), but this year it\u2019s the turn of the sub-\u00a3100 road lids. That\u2019s not to […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":24,"featured_media":58,"template":"","categories":[1],"acf":{"readingTimeMinutes":"10"},"uagb_featured_image_src":{"full":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/47\/2021\/10\/best-road-bike-helmets-for-triathlon-scaled.jpg",2560,1707,false],"thumbnail":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/47\/2021\/10\/best-road-bike-helmets-for-triathlon-150x150.jpg",150,150,true],"medium":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/47\/2021\/10\/best-road-bike-helmets-for-triathlon-300x200.jpg",300,200,true],"medium_large":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/47\/2021\/10\/best-road-bike-helmets-for-triathlon-768x512.jpg",768,512,true],"large":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/47\/2021\/10\/best-road-bike-helmets-for-triathlon-1024x683.jpg",800,534,true],"1536x1536":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/47\/2021\/10\/best-road-bike-helmets-for-triathlon-1536x1024.jpg",1536,1024,true],"2048x2048":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/47\/2021\/10\/best-road-bike-helmets-for-triathlon-2048x1365.jpg",2048,1365,true]},"uagb_author_info":{"display_name":"importmanagerhub@sprylab.com","author_link":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/220triathlon\/author\/importmanagerhubsprylab-com\/"},"uagb_comment_info":0,"uagb_excerpt":"By Matt Baird Published: Friday, 15 October 2021 at 12:00 am Our most recent helmet buyer\u2019s guides have involved the pick of the aero road helmet crop being put through their paces in the wind tunnel (check out the results here), but this year it\u2019s the turn of the sub-\u00a3100 road lids. That\u2019s not to…","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/220triathlon\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/rss_feed\/57"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/220triathlon\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/rss_feed"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/220triathlon\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/rss_feed"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/220triathlon\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/24"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/220triathlon\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/58"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/220triathlon\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=57"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/220triathlon\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=57"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}