For beginners in the world of cycling, making the right choice when buying a road bike helmet (or gravel helmet) is very important for both safety and comfort while cycling. However, the range of helmets available can be overwhelming, especially if you have to consider a limited budget. What should you look out for when buying a road bike or gravel helmet? In this article, we share five handy tips to guide you in choosing a suitable road bike or gravel helmet, and we also give you five good options under 100 euros to get you started.
Tip 1: Fit and Comfort
A well-fitting helmet is crucial. Make sure the helmet sits firmly on your head without pinching. Check if the helmet has adjustable straps and a dial (e.g. RocLoc system) for a precise fit. A comfortable helmet reduces fatigue during long rides. Besides, some straps/strings can cut. Try on a number of helmets. A helmet that is too small will pinch and not protect properly. A helmet that is too big will slide, which again creates risks in case of a fall. You will also get annoyed during a ride.
Tip 2: Safety certification and trap protection
Always check that the helmet meets international safety standards, in Europe there is the CE-EN 1078 standard. This ensures that the helmet has been tested and approved for impact protection. Additionally, these days you have several internal systems to help with extra protection. MIPS (independent), Wavecel (maker: Bontrager) and Kineticore (Lazer/Shimano) are examples. Those helmets are a bit heavier and often a bit more expensive.
Tip 3: Ventilation and air circulation
During longer trips, on hot days or during intense workouts, overheating can be a problem. Choose a helmet with enough vents to promote the passage of air and keep your head cool, even on hot days.
Tip 4: Weight and aerodynamics
A light helmet reduces the strain on your neck and head during long rides. Some helmets start as low as 200 grams (i.e. ultra light). The average helmet weighs around 280 grams (depending also on the size (S weighs less than L...). Aerodynamics are also taking off, with the closed helmet becoming more the standard. If you like to go as fast as possible, then a closed helmet is faster, than one with holes. Downside and then right away that's another reference to tip 3: ventilation is also less.
Tip 5: Style and design
While safety comes first, you also want to look good while riding. Choose a helmet that suits your personal style and that you will be proud to wear. These days, helmets come in all shapes, sizes and colours. While the real style purists will always go for a white or black helmet, red, fluorescent yellow, blue, green or even purple is also an option.
Road bike helmet for beginners: five options under 100 euros.
Are you all set to go cycling? Then here are five high-quality road bike helmets for beginners under €100:
- Bell Formula MIPS (Average price: 90 euros) The Bell Formula MIPS offers excellent protection thanks to its MIPS system that absorbs extra rotational forces in the event of a fall. The helmet is well adjustable and has plenty of vents.
- Giro Agilis MIPS (Average price: €90) The Giro Agilis MIPS combines style and performance. With its light weight, MIPS technology and streamlined design, this is a great choice for beginners.
- BBB Cycling Hawk (Average price: €65) The BBB Cycling Hawk helmet is a real entry-level helmet. For just under €65, you get a fine helmet, which is certainly more than adequate for the beginner. It has no less than 21 air holes, so plenty of ventilation. Downside: a bit on the heavy side.
- Lazer Road Strada KinetiCore (Recommended price: 99 euros) The Lazer Road Strada KinetiCore falls just within budget, but the helmet offers advanced kineticore technology for impact protection. The pads reduce impact forces and the ample vents keep you cool.
- Kask Sintesi (Suggested retail price: 79 euros) Although just (over) on the budget limit, the new Kask Sintesi offers excellent protection and style. It has a sleek design and comes in a variety of colours.
As a novice cyclist, choosing the right road bike helmet is an important decision. By considering fit, safety, ventilation, weight and style, and choosing from affordable options like the helmets mentioned, you can hit the road and enjoy your rides with confidence.
