"Anything is better than not wearing a helmet at all," says Frank Proksch, Head of Development at helmet manufacturer Uvex, "We don't have a problem with unsafe helmets - we have a helmet-wearing problem!" In fact, according to statistics, only 47 per cent of all bikers wear a helmet - just under half.
Experts believe that 85 per cent of injuries could be prevented if bikers wore a helmet. It's precisely where it's most dangerous that most people ride without a helmet: in the city, on hard tarmac. We gravity bikers can only shrug our shoulders. Because: In a bike park or at full throttle on a downhill piste like Schladming without a helmet? We would never do that. We wear helmets! But which one? Accident researchers and TÜV engineers advise gravity bikers to wear maximum protection and recommend helmets that fulfil the strict ECE 22 standard for motorbike helmets. "The EN 1078 standard for bicycle helmets is too lax," says TÜV inspector Christiane Reckter, "and the 1078 does not test the chin guard." The ubiquitous enduro trend is now seeing the emergence of full-face helmets that are well ventilated, lightweight and often equipped with removable chin guards. But are these helmets safe? To find out, we had six full-face models tested by TÜV.
Originally, we wanted to test the helmets according to the motorbike standard (ECE 22), but the TÜV refused. "These helmets would not have been able to withstand the high-impact blows; we would probably have smashed them completely," says TÜV inspector Peter Schaudt. We therefore tested the helmets with the weaker accelerations of bicycle standard 1078, but supplemented these with a blow to the chin guard. The results speak for themselves: only three helmets were able to withstand the impact on the chin guard; for three of them, the chin guard was more useful for damage limitation in the case of very light falls. Although a weak chin guard is better than no chin guard at all, these lightweight helmets are not suitable for tough conditions such as enduro races and downhills on technically demanding trails. If things get rough and fast, we recommend real full-face helmets such as the Dissident from Specialized or D3 from Troy Lee. Although these helmets weigh around a kilo, they offer maximum protection.
We subjected the recently fashionable half-shell helmets for enduro riders to the conventional tests of the bicycle standard to see which helmet offers the most protection. "These helmets are no safer than normal bike helmets, but with their low-slung helmet shells they offer better all-round protection than the tight cross-country models," says TÜV tester Peter Schaudt. There were clear differences between the twelve helmets tested. What the crumple zone is to a car, the foam body is to a bike helmet. The foam absorbs the impact. The best test helmets reduced the hard top impact to values around 160 g (Uvex, O'Neal, Bell, Specialized, Met), others came close to the limit value of 250 g (Mavic, Kali) or even exceeded it (661). "The most common impact in a fall is on the front left or right side of the forehead," says helmet expert Frank Proksch. The lateral impact of the 1078 standard also seemed particularly realistic to us, which is why we weighted this value most heavily in the safety criterion. Very important: the fit. The helmet must fit snugly to provide effective protection. However, every head shape is different - hence our appeal: try it on carefully and choose the helmet that fits best. Not the one with the smartest paintwork!
We tested these helmets:
Full face helmets:
- Alpina King Carapax
- Bell Super 2R Joyride
- Cratoni C-Maniac
- Met Parachute
- Urge Archi Enduro Veggie
- Uvex Jakkyl Hde (FREERIDE Tip)
Half-shell helmets:
- Alpina Carapax
- Bell Stroker MIPS
- Bontrager Rally
- Cratoni Allset
- Giro Montaro MIPS
- IXS Trail RX
- Kali Maya
- Mavic Crossmax Pro
- O'Neal Orbiter (FREERIDE Tip)
- Sixsixone Evo AM
- Specialised Ambush (FREERIDE tip)
- Uvex Finale
...
interview with TüV engineer Christiane Reckter: "More protection than a bike helmet!"
Is there a safety problem with bike helmets?
No, there are almost no problems with helmets. If there are, they are usually due to the helmet being worn incorrectly. For example, the helmet is pushed back on the neck, the forehead is unprotected, the chin strap is not fastened, and so on. Of course, a helmet cannot provide effective protection in this way.
This means that the fit of a helmet is extremely important.
Super important! Many helmets have a head ring that can be latched, but if the helmet is too big, it can quickly become dangerous.
Why?
Because the helmet hits first and then the head hits the helmet, which is too big. Consequence: craniocerebral trauma. This doesn't happen with a helmet that fits. The rule of thumb is therefore: no more than one finger should fit between the foam shell and the head. So: tight, but comfortable. However, it is also important to realise that a helmet cannot protect against all injuries.
If there are no problems with helmets, the standard limit seems strict enough.
Unfortunately, the acceleration values do not allow any concrete conclusions to be drawn about the injury potential - along the lines of: 80 g = concussion, 50 g = headache.
How can the results then be evaluated?
The lower the acceleration value, the better the helmet damps. A difference of 100 g is huge.
A test impact hits the helmet vertically from above. That doesn't seem realistic.
That's right, you're unlikely to fall, but the top-flat impact is the toughest demand on a helmet. If a helmet has problems, it's with this impact. In my eyes, the side wedge impact comes closest to reality.
Enduro helmets look a little more martial. Are they different from other bike helmets?
No. However, a low-cut helmet that covers the atlas vertebrae offers more protection than a skimpy racing bike helmet.
Enduro helmets with a chin bar are now also available. Are these helmets an alternative to a proper full-face helmet?
No. In downhill and bike parks, I even recommend a helmet that passes the ECE 22 motorbike standard because of the high speeds involved. This offers much more protection than a bike helmet with a chin bar. However, you have to pay attention to the weight. The helmet should not weigh much more than 1 kilo.
How can it be explained that motorbike helmets have higher g-values than bicycle helmets in the 1078 bicycle test?
Motorbike helmets are made of harder material to withstand the higher impact forces. However, this denser material does not absorb light impacts as well.
What are the benefits of carbon?
Only a weight advantage. You can't say that a carbon helmet is safer.
When does a helmet have to be replaced due to age?
Oh, the tiresome topic! Nobody knows! We carried out tests and tested a really old helmet against a new one. There were hardly any differences. But the authorities demand an expiry period for plastics. The directive states that a helmet must be replaced after 5 years. However, this does not mean that the helmet is no longer safe after 5 years due to material ageing. It can still protect just as well after 20 years.
Overview: Shock absorber test results for bicycle helmets and chin bars
Shock absorber test for bicycle helmets according to EN 1078
Data in g (acceleration due to gravity, 1 g = 9.81 m/s2.) A sensor inside the test head measures the load during the impact. The lower the value, the better.
Shock absorber test for chin bars
The EN 1078 standard for bicycle helmets does not stipulate an impact test for the chin guard. On our behalf, TÜV tested the protective effect of the chin guard in accordance with the ECE 22 standard for motorbike helmets, but at a reduced speed (16.5 km/h). Data in g (acceleration due to gravity, 1 g = 9.81 m/s2). A sensor inside the test head measures the load during the impact. The lower the value, the better. The high values from Urge, Alpina and Cratoni certify that their chin guards offer only minimal to almost no protection.
SAFE THING: In previous tests, we had lightweight carbon helmets for bikers tested by TÜV Rheinland under the most difficult conditions. These two helmets weighing around 1 kilo even passed the tough tests according to the standard for motorbike helmets (ECE 22) with good results.
Troy Lee D3: EN 1078 bicycle (g-value: flat/notch): 218/99 g. ECE 22 motorbike (g-value: side/chin impact): 269/46 g. Price: 530 euros, www.troyleedesigns.de
Specialised Dissident: EN 1078 bicycle (g-value: flat/notch): 193/80 g. ECE 22 motorbike (g-value: side/chin impact): 220/65 g. Price: 450 euros, www.specialized.com
How FREERIDE tests
Test procedure: TÜV Rheinland subjected the test helmets to two standardised impacts in accordance with European standard 1078 (full-face models with additional chin impact) and determined the residual acceleration acting on the head. The criteria of safety (80 per cent) and wearing comfort (20 per cent) were included in the test results. Wearing comfort includes: Ventilation, weight, adjustability. The ventilation of the half-shell helmets was tested using a thermal imaging camera. A description of the test procedure can be found here->
THE TEST RESULTS
FULLFACE HELMETS
Alpina King Carapax
Basic data
Distribution www.alpina-sports.com
Sizes 53-57 (S/M), 57-62 (L/XL)
Price 180 Euro
Measurement data
Weight 483 grammes
Damping* (g-value: flat/notch/chin) 186/106/302 g
ConclusionThe manufacturer promises "Perfect protection for downhill riding", but the damping values tell a different story. They are average for the helmet, just like those of the half-shell version. The thin chin guard (removable) offers only minimal protection. The Alpina is light, airy and comfortable to wear (cheek pads a little soft) - but no substitute for a proper full-face helmet. Not suitable for heavier use!
Bell Super 2R Joyride
Basic data
Distribution www.grofa.com
Sizes 52-56 (S), 55-59 (M), 58-62 (L)
Price 250 Euro
Measurement data
Weight 742 grammes
Damping* (g-value: flat/notch/chin) 195/103/211 g
ConclusionThe Bell is comfortable to wear, ventilates well and can be securely fastened. Camera mount, a widely adjustable visor, comfortable cheek pads and a chin strap that can be removed in a flash (ideal for enduro racing) - the Bell is full of useful details and looks good to boot. The damping values are okay for a helmet in this weight class. The chin guard absorbs the test impact below the limit value.
Cratoni C-Maniac
Basic data
Distribution www.cratoni.com
Sizes 52-56 (S), 54-58 (M), 58-61 (L)
Price 100 Euro
Measurement data
Weight 465 grammes
Damping* (g-value: flat/notch/chin) 187/101/474 g
ConclusionAt 465 grams, the Cratoni is a flyweight, but let's not kid ourselves - the attachable chin guard is pure placebo, the shock absorption is minimal. It prevents a scraped chin, but if the impact is stronger, the blow hits the jaw pretty much unfiltered. Fit, ventilation, weight, i.e. wearing comfort is very good. Shortcoming: The visor hangs low and cannot be adjusted. Available in four colours.
Met Parachute
Basic data
Distribution www.met-helmets.com
Sizes 51-56 (S), 54-58 (M), 59-62 (L)
Price 220 Euro
Measurement data
Weight 700 grammes
Damping* (g-value: flat/notch/chin) 162/134/99 g
ConclusionThe Parachute offers very good ventilation and pleasant wearing comfort. The chin guard cannot be removed and is very effectively designed. It buffers the test impact down to 99 g - the top value in the test field. The other values are decent. The strap system and a head ring with silicone padding strap the helmet firmly to the head - good! Great details: goggle holder, visor adjustment and comfortable padding.
Urge Archi Enduro Veggie
Basic data
Distribution www.urgebike.com
Sizes 53-57 (S/M), 57-59 (L/XL)
Price 230 Euro
Measurement data
Weight 968 grammes
Damping* (g-value: flat/notch/chin) 209/107/248 g
ConclusionThe helmet specialists around super racer Fabien Barel developed the Archi especially for enduro racing. The Veggie is made from recycled EPS and linen fibre instead of fibreglass. The fit is similar to a real full-face helmet with full padding instead of a lashing ring. The ventilation is mediocre compared to the competition and the chin guard is disappointing. We would have expected more cushioning here. Great: workmanship and looks.
Uvex Jakkyl Hde
Basic data
Distribution www.uvex-sports.de
Sizes 52-57 (S/M), 56-61 (L/XL)
Price 200 Euro
Measurement data
Weight 630 grammes
Attenuation* (g-value: flat/notch/chin) 142/96/147 g
ConclusionEnduro pro Michal Prokop helped develop the Jakkyl. Special feature: The chin guard is made of fibreglass laminate. It can be removed quickly and provides effective protection in the event of a fall onto the face. The shock absorption values are impressive! They make the Uvex the safest of the full-face helmets tested. Very good: the ventilation and the Boa lashing system, which secures the helmet firmly to the head. Also available in colour.
FREERIDE RANKING: The number (maximum 10 points) is made up of the categories safety (80 %) and comfort (20 %). Wearing comfort includes: Weight, ventilation, adjustability, fit. 10 = Test winner, no better. 9 = Very good. Recommended purchase. 8 = Solid performance. 7 = Below average. The product has weaknesses. 1 to 6 = We can only advise against it!
*Cushioning: The half-shell helmets had to withstand two test impacts in accordance with EN 1078 for bicycle helmets: flat impact (19.5 km/h) from above and notched impact (16.5 km/h) on the side of the helmet. We gave special weighting to the realistic notched impact.
...
HALF-SHELL HELMETS
Alpina Carapax
Basic data
Distribution www.alpina-sports.com
Sizes 53-57, 57-62
Price 130 Euro€
Measurement data
Weight 306 grammes
Damping* (g-value: flat/notch) 196/126 g
ConclusionThe compact Carapax only moderately absorbs the test impacts compared to the competition, but is extremely comfortable to wear. It is easy to adjust to the head circumference thanks to the dial and sits nice and low. The strap guide does not prevent the helmet from tipping over on the neck. Good: the adjustable ratchet fastener. A pity: the visor can only be adjusted slightly.
Bell Stroker MIPS
Basic data
Distribution www.grofa.com
Sizes 52-56 (S), 55-59 (M), 58-62 (L)
Price 120 Euro
Measurement data
Weight 330 grammes
Damping* (g-value: flat/notch)158/101 g
ConclusionTop values in crash damping make the massive Bell a safe number. However, whether the MIPS system eliminates rotational forces is debatable. The wide helmet sits a little higher and more wobbly on the head, despite good head ring fixation. With its massive visor, the Stroker looks very martial. Without MIPS, the helmet is €20 cheaper.
Bontrager Rally
Basic data
Distribution www.bontrager.com
Sizes 51-57 (S), 54-60 (M), 58-64 (L)
Price 105 Euro
Measurement data
Weight 383 grammes
Attenuation* (g-value: flat/notch) 182/107 g
ConclusionAt 383 grams, the Bontrager is the lightest of the half-shells in the test field. However, it impresses with good ventilation and effective adjustment thanks to the head ring and neck support. The strap guide straps the helmet securely and low to the head. Smart: the easily adjustable visor. The helmet coped with the test impacts with solid results.
Cratoni Allset
Basic data
Distribution www.cratoni.com
Sizes 54-58 (S/M), 58-61 (L)
Price 100 Euro
Measurement data
Weight 306 grammes
Damping* (g-value: flat/notch) 200/110 g
ConclusionThe Allset is well ventilated, has an adjustable visor and pleases with its good fit. The helmet can be fixed securely and low on the head by turning the dial. Tried and tested: The ratchet fastener, as used by Alpina and Uvex. The helmet copes well with notched impacts on the side of the helmet, but the residual acceleration is high on flat impacts from above.
Giro Montaro MIPS
Basic data
Distribution www.grofa.com
Sizes 51-55 (S), 55-59 (M), 59-63 (L)
Price 180 Euro
Measurement data
Weight 379 grammes
Damping* (g-value: flat/notch) 197/105 g
ConclusionThe Giro is very detailed. The adjustment of the long visor is exemplary, the competition can take a leaf out of its book. MIPS is supposed to provide better protection against rotational acceleration, but this has not been scientifically proven. The damping values of the rather heavy helmet are okay. It is comfortable to wear, easy to adjust, but only moderately ventilated.
IXS Trail RX Kali Maya
Basic data
Distribution www.sports-nut.de
Sizes 54-58 (S/M), 58-62 (L/XL)
Price 120 Euro
Measurement data
Weight 337 grammes
Attenuation* (g-value: flat/notch) 197/108 g
ConclusionThe bestseller from IXS and signature helmet of freeride pioneer Richie Schley ventilates and protects well. It's easy to adjust (the dial is a little tricky) and comfortable to wear. Unfortunately, the adjustment of the angular motocross-style visor is too small. If the red-green colour blocking is too bold for you, the IXS is also available in many other colours.
Kali Maya
Basic data
Distribution www.sports-nut.de
Sizes 55-58 (S/M), 58-62 (L/XL)
Price 100 Euro
Measurement data
Weight 350 grammes
Damping* (g-value: flat/notch) 222/127 g
ConclusionLots of EPS foam, few ventilation slots - it's surprising that the helmet doesn't absorb the test impacts better. The flat impact from above is particularly hard on the Maya, although still far from the limit value (250 g). The helmet is still fastened with the outdated ratchet system, but still sits comfortably and snugly on the head. It's a shame that the ventilation is only moderate.
Mavic Crossmax Pro
Basic data
Distribution www.mavic.com
Sizes 51-56 (S), 54-59 (M), 57-61 (L)
Price 150 Euro
Measurement data
Weight 369 grammes
Damping* (g-value: flat/notch) 220/140 g
ConclusionThe massive Crossmax Pro sits very comfortably on the head thanks to a special foam rubber under the padding. The dial adjustment works effectively and the strap guide fixes the helmet securely to the head. Very good: the workmanship. Too bad that the somewhat heavy helmet only moderately absorbs the test impacts. This costs points in the most important criterion - safety.
O'Neal Orbiter
Basic data
Distribution www.oneal.eu
Sizes 53-56 (S), 57-60 (M), 61-64 (L)
Price 80 Euro
Measurement data
Weight 332 grammes
Damping* (g-value: flat/notch) 158/99 g
Conclusion: The rather spherical O'Neal achieved the best damping values among the half-shell helmets.
Minus points were awarded for the poor ventilation. The helmet sits a little higher on the head, but is held firmly in place by the lashing ring. Very good: the quick magnetic fastening. A pity that the visor cannot be adjusted. Great: the favourable price!
Sixsixone Evo AM
Basic data
Distribution www.cosmicsports.com
Sizes 54-56 (S), 57-59 (M), 60-62 (L)
Price 179 Euro
Measurement data
Weight 353 grammes
Damping* (g-value: flat/notch) 252/118 g
ConclusionSurprise during the impact test: The 661 does not pass the impact from above and is above the limit value. The value also tore upwards on a further test impact. A pity, because the elegant-looking helmet fits comfortably and is easy to adjust thanks to the Boa lashing system. Smart: the quick magnetic fastening. However, the ventilation is mediocre and the price is very high.
Specialised Ambush
Basic data
Distribution www.specialized.com
Sizes 52-56 (S), 56-60 (M), 60-63 (L)
Price 180 Euro
Measurement data
Weight 279 grammes
Damping* (g-value: flat/notch) 158/106 g
ConclusionVery good values in the impact test and a record weight (lightest helmet in the test) make the Specialized a favourite among the half-shell helmets. The Ambush encloses the head well, sits comfortably, is very well ventilated and sensibly equipped: comfortable padding, effective neck support and a widely adjustable visor. Available in five colours. Unfortunately expensive.
Uvex Finale
Basic data
Distribution www.uvex-sports.com
Sizes 52-57 (S/M), 56-61 (L/XL)
Price 110 Euro
Measurement data
Weight 347 grammes
Damping* (g-value: flat/notch) 188/104 g
ConclusionThe Uvex impresses with its comfort, very good ventilation and good fit. The helmet sits nice and low, encloses the head well and is easy to adjust. Great: the adjustable ratchet fastening. The Uvex absorbs impacts effectively, especially the angular impact on the side of the helmet. The only criticism we had was for the clumsy dial and the long, non-adjustable visor.
FREERIDE RANKING: The number (maximum 10 points) is made up of the categories safety (80 %) and comfort (20 %). Wearing comfort includes: Weight, ventilation, adjustability, fit. 10 = Test winner, no better. 9 = Very good. Recommended purchase. 8 = Solid performance. 7 = Below average. The product has weaknesses. 1 to 6 = We can only advise against it!
*Cushioning: The half-shell helmets had to withstand two test impacts in accordance with EN 1078 for bicycle helmets: flat impact (19.5 km/h) from above and notched impact (16.5 km/h) on the side of the helmet. We gave special weighting to the realistic notched impact.
Dimitri Lehner
Editor
