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Back in the 1960s, cyclists still wore leather crash rings. They protected against falls about as effectively as herbal teas against swine flu. They were also uncomfortable and sweaty to wear because they rested directly on the head. Today, cycle helmets are high-tech products - well ventilated and highly protective. And yet, according to statistics, 47 per cent of all cyclists in Germany still do not wear a helmet. Although this figure includes all cyclists, not everyone protects their head with a polystyrene shell, even on a mountain bike. The best proof of this is provided by our home circuit on Munich's Isar trails. On a "good" weekend, it feels like every third biker is caught here without head protection. There are supposedly many arguments against helmets: too heavy, too warm, too ugly. And the protective effect of helmets is overrated. But is that really true? We subjected 17 models in the all-mountain class to our extensive test.
The test results of these MTB helmets can be found below:
- Alpina Carapax
- Bell Stoker MIPS-Equipped
- Bontrager Rally
- Cratoni Allset (BIKE Tip: Price/performance).
- Giro Montaro MIPS
- IXS Trail RS
- Kali Maya
- KED Trailon
- Lazer Revolution
- Limar 949DR
- Mavic Crossmax Pro
- MET Lupo
- O'Neal Orbiter
- Scott Vivo Plus
- SixSixOne Evo AM
- Specialised Ambush (BIKE tip: test winner)
- Uvex Finale (BIKE Tip: Price/performance).
All-mountain helmets are becoming more and more interesting for us mountain bikers. Their helmet shell extends further down the neck and can therefore offer additional protection in the event of a fall. Until now, however, this helmet category has often had to contend with serious disadvantages. The additional material put a lot of pressure on the scales, and the all-mountain models were sometimes noticeably less well ventilated. Uphill, the heat built up uncomfortably under the helmet.
The latest helmets for all-mountain use can do a lot better: they are now often significantly lighter in design and some even break the 300 gram barrier. Larger ventilation openings and flow channels inside the helmet shell distribute the cooling airflow to the rear of the helmet. Our test with the thermal imaging camera proves this. The Lupo from Met, for example, can easily compete with our reference model, the Scott Vanish Evo race helmet, in terms of ventilation.
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Cycle helmets: safety check at TÜV
To test the safety of the helmets, we once again called on the support of experts from TÜV Rheinland. The impact tests were carried out in the Cologne test laboratory in accordance with the EN 1078 test standard. In the impact test, an artificial head weighing 5.4 kilos is dropped onto an anvil from a height of 160 centimetres. The impact corresponds to a speed of around 19 km/h. The limit value of 250 g specified in the EN 1078 standard must not be exceeded. The test shows that although all-mountain helmets do not necessarily achieve lower values compared to conventional bike helmets, they offer better all-round protection thanks to their larger surface area, explains Peter Schaudt, our expert from TÜV.
To carry out the test, the helmets are first marked by the testers. In the first case, the top half of the rider's head hits the flat tarmac. The point at which the helmet hits the flat anvil is precisely defined in the standard. The "curve stone", i.e. a wedge-shaped anvil, is used to simulate the impact with a kerb or rock edge. Here, the tester uses his experience to select the weakest point on the helmet, usually ventilation holes or connecting pieces.
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HELM-CHECK
1. neck strap An adjusting wheel closes the helmet securely and quickly. In contrast to a ratchet, both sides are pulled together evenly.
2. Headband A circumferential head ring not only adapts better to the shape of the head, but also prevents sweat from running into the eyes.
3. Fly screen It looks kind of old-school. Nevertheless: creepy-crawlies between the helmet shell and scalp are not only annoying, they can also be dangerous.
4. Ventilation More openings do not always mean a better air supply. Ventilation ducts that guide the air from the front to the rear are important.
5. Closure It should be easy to operate and be able to be opened with one hand in an emergency. Ratchet systems can also be adjusted in width while riding. We liked the Fidlock magnetic buckle on the O'Neal and SixSixOne helmets best.
6. Visor The peak on the helmet is both a stylistic device and sun protection. On all-mountain/enduro helmets, it should be generously adjustable via a ratchet.
7. Accessories Some helmets offer flattened areas for mounting the camera. According to the TÜV, however, the mount on the helmet should have a predetermined breaking point in the event of a fall. Ked is the only manufacturer to install a rear light in the headrest. Practical for the way home from the trail.
Thought along
Innovative fasteners, camera mounts with a release function in the event of a fall and adjustable visors - helmets in the all-mountain class are no longer just moulded EPS pellets. Manufacturers are coming up with all kinds of gimmicks to make their helmets more attractive and practical.
MIPS: Really safer or not?
More and more manufacturers are on MIPS, the inconspicuous yellow helmet insert from Sweden. It promises more protection in the event of a fall. However, its effect is controversial.
The Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm has been researching MIPS for 19 years. The Multi-Directional Impact Protection System consists of a low-friction plastic shell that floats in the EPS shell of the helmet using stretchable brackets. In the event of a fall, it is designed to move against the helmet shell and absorb the so-called rotational forces that can cause considerable damage to our brain. These forces occur when the head impacts at an angle and is suddenly decelerated. In the current standardised test (DIN EN 1078), only linear forces are determined - i.e. when the head moves in a straight line. Our test at TÜV can therefore neither confirm nor refute the effect of MIPS. Although TÜV Rheinland is already working on a test standard for rotation systems, the testers were unable to make an official comment at this time. One thing is certain: as long as there is no scientific proof from an independent institute, the actual effect of MIPS remains questionable.
PRO MIPS
"We are convinced that the MIPS can offer additional protection," says Dain Zaffke, Director of Marketing at Giro.
There is no one helmet design or technology that provides 100% protection against head injuries. There is only one truth: less is more. Less energy hitting the brain in a fall equals more protection. We have been working intensively with MIPS for two years and have even developed our own test device to better understand how it works. We believe that helmets with MIPS can offer additional protection in the event of certain impacts.
CONTRA MIPS
"In principle, we believe that anything that makes the helmet safer makes sense," explains Alexander Selch, Managing Director of Uvex Sports.
However, new integrated technologies must always bring added value. In the case of MIPS, no independent test laboratory has yet been able to determine an increase in this safety. Furthermore, the EN and CPSC standard values have not been positively influenced. The second shell also requires more space in the helmet. The sensitivity of the MIPS suspension can lead to damage to the helmet even in the event of a minor impact, making it necessary to replace it.
The test results from ALPINA to IXS
ALPINA Carapax
Price 129.95 Euro (e.g. available at Rosebikes)
Sizes¹ 53-57, 57-62
Weight² (10 %) 306 grammes
Equipment (10 %) twist lock, ratchet lock, four-way height adjustment, chin pad, fly screen
Valuation
Security (30 %) 7 out of 10 points
Ventilation (20 %) 6 out of 10 points
Wearing comfort (15 %) 8 out of 10 points
Adjustment (15 %) 8 out of 10 points
CONCLUSION The carapace is somewhat complex, but can be extensively customised. The belt guide is particularly impressive. Its elongated shell fits like a glove and the wide neck support is very comfortable. The ventilation only extends to about the centre of the head. No goggle or camera mount.
BIKE judgement³ VERY GOOD
BELL Stoker MIPS-Equipped
Price 119,99 Euro
Sizes¹ S 52-56, M 55-59, L 58-62
Weight² (10 %) 330 grammes
Equipment (10 %) Adjustable visor, MIPS, twist lock, buckle, triple height adjustment
Valuation
Security (30 %) 9 out of 10 points
Ventilation (20 %) 6 out of 10 points
Wearing comfort (15 %) 6 out of 10 points
Adjustment (15 %) 7 out of 10 points
CONCLUSION Despite the bulky shell, the Bell is well ventilated, at least at the forehead, and not too heavy. The straps run far outwards, making the rather wide shell a little wobbly. As you would expect, the massive helmet passes the crash test with top marks.
BIKE judgement³ GOOD
BONTRAGER Rally
Price 104.95 Euro (e.g. available at Bobshop)
Sizes¹ S 51-57, M 54-60, L 58-64
Weight² (10 %) 383 grammes
Equipment (10 %) Adjustable visor, twist lock, buckle, triple height adjustment
Valuation
Security (30 %) 8 out of 10 points
Ventilation (20 %) 8 out of 10 points
Wearing comfort (15 %) 9 out of 10 points
Adjustment (15 %) 9 out of 10 points
CONCLUSION Correctly adjusted, the heavy Bontrager sits securely and wobble-free on the head, helped by the neat strap guide. The headrest and the dial are easy to operate. The ventilation extends far to the rear. The workmanship is only average.
BIKE judgement³ VERY GOOD
CRATONI Allset
Price 99.95 Euro (e.g. at Available on Amazon)
Sizes¹ S/M 54-58, M/L 58-61
Weight² (10 %) 306 grammes
Equipment (10 %) Adjustable visor with ratchet, twist lock, ratchet lock, triple height adjustment
Valuation
Security (30 %) 8 out of 10 points
Ventilation (20 %) 8 out of 10 points
Wearing comfort (15 %) 6 out of 10 points
Adjustment (15 %) 7 out of 10 points
CONCLUSION The Allset impresses with its low, comfortable helmet shell. With an adjustable visor and ratchet fastening as well as good ventilation values, it scores points. Only the straps protrude a little from the head and the neck support is rather punctual.
BIKE judgement³ VERY GOOD
GIRO Montaro MIPS
Price 179.99 euros (e.g. available from Rose)
Sizes¹ S 51-55, M 55-59, L 59-63
Weight² (10 %) 379 grammes
Equipment (10 %) Visor with louvre, twist lock, circumferential head ring, plug-in lock, triple height adjustment
Valuation
Security (30 %) 8 out of 10 points
Ventilation (20 %) 6 out of 10 points
Wearing comfort (15 %) 9 out of 10 points
Adjustment (15 %) 8 out of 10 points
CONCLUSION All-round helmet shell, matt finish, top adjustment options - the Giro is perfectly finished. Unfortunately, it sits a little high. The many extras, such as MIPS and the circumferential head ring, weigh on the scales. Ventilation suffers from the closed design.
BIKE judgement³ GOOD
IXS Trail RS
Price 119.95 Euro (e.g. available from Maciag-Offroad)
Sizes¹ S/M 54-58, L/XL 58-62
Weight² (10 %) 337 grammes
Equipment (10 %) Visor with crash release, twist lock, buckle, triple height adjustment, chin padding
Valuation
Security (30 %) 9 out of 10 points
Ventilation (20 %) 6 out of 10 points
Wearing comfort (15 %) 6 out of 10 points
Adjustment (15 %) 7 out of 10 points
CONCLUSION The voluminous shell of the IXS reaches deep into the neck and offers plenty of protection. The rubberised dial is easy to grip, but is very stiff. The straps run far to the outside, making the Trail RS a little wobbly on the head. The ventilation is okay, the workmanship is passable.
BIKE judgement³ GOOD
¹ Tested size marked in bold.
² BIKE measured values: Weight measured in tested size. The BIKE judgement is independent of price. It is made up of the six criteria and is based on rounded values. BIKE judgements: super, very good, good, satisfactory, with weaknesses, unsatisfactory.
KALI Maya
Price 99,90 Euro
Sizes¹ S/M 55-58, L/XL 58-62
Weight² (10 %) 350 grammes
Equipment (10 %) Adjustable visor with camera/lamp holder, ratchet fastener, buckle, fly screen in the padding
Valuation
Security (30 %) 7 out of 10 points
Ventilation (20 %) 3 out of 10 points
Wearing comfort (15 %) 6 out of 10 points
Adjustment (15 %) 6 out of 10 points
CONCLUSION The Kali's outdated ratchet fastener does not close evenly and pulls the helmet off the forehead. Overall, it sits quite high and a little wobbly. The few ventilation openings hardly provide any cooling. The visor is not the ideal place for the camera mount.
BIKE judgement³ SATISFACTORY
KED Trailon
Price 99.95 Euro (e.g. available at Bergfreund)
Sizes¹ 52-58, 56-62
Weight² (10 %) 379 grammes
Equipment (10 %) Adjustable visor, circumferential head ring, twist lock, ratchet lock, height and length adjustment
Valuation
Security (30 %) 8 out of 10 points
Ventilation (20 %) 8 out of 10 points
Wearing comfort (15 %) 7 out of 10 points
Adjustment (15 %) 7 out of 10 points
CONCLUSION The cumbersome adjustment system of the Keds was not convincing. The reflector on the dial also gets in the way. Once adjusted, however, the Trailon sits comfortably and wobble-free on the head. Many openings cool the head, and the impact values are also flawless.
BIKE judgement³ GOOD
LAZER Revolution
Price 159.95 Euro (e.g. currently available at Amazon)
Sizes¹ S 52-56, M 55-59, L 58-61
Weight² (10 %) 424 grammes
Equipment (10 %) Visor with ratchet, nine-position height adjustment, camera mount, earmuffs, optional chin guard
Valuation
Security (30 %) 7 out of 10 points
Ventilation (20 %) 6 out of 10 points
Wearing comfort (15 %) 9 out of 10 points
Adjustment (15 %) 9 out of 10 points
CONCLUSION The heaviest helmet in the test boasts a perfect fit, a wide-enclosing helmet shell and a very comfortable adjustment system. Ventilation is limited to the front part of the helmet. Ear pads are included in the scope of delivery and an optional attachable chin guard is available.
BIKE judgement³ VERY GOOD
LIMAR 949DR
Price 169.95 Euro (e.g. available at Amazon)
Sizes¹ M 55-59, L 59-63
Weight² (10 %) 314 grammes
Equipment (10 %) Adjustable visor, twist lock, buckle, four-way height adjustment, chin guard, fly screen
Valuation
Security (30 %) 9 out of 10 points
Ventilation (20 %) 8 out of 10 points
Wearing comfort (15 %) 6 out of 10 points
Adjustment (15 %) 7 out of 10 points
CONCLUSION The expensive Limar is not very high quality. It sits a little high on the head and the shell is not very deep. The hard struts of the headrest can cause pressure. However, the harness system fits well, the ventilation is excellent and it also scores very well in the TÜV test.
BIKE judgement³ VERY GOOD
MAVIC Crossmax Pro
Price 150 Euro (e.g. available at Bobshop)
Sizes¹ S 51-56, M 54-59, L 57-61
Weight² (10 %) 369 grammes
Equipment (10 %) Adjustable visor, twist lock, buckle, triple height adjustment, fly screen, second set of padding
Valuation
Security (30 %) 7 out of 10 points
Ventilation (20 %) 4 out of 10 points
Wearing comfort (15 %) 6 out of 10 points
Adjustment (15 %) 7 out of 10 points
CONCLUSION The Crossmax has a high-quality finish and is easy to adjust. The wide helmet shell sits a little high, but is still secure thanks to the neatly organised straps. Unfortunately, the large visor can only be adjusted with a screw, and heat builds up under the flat padding.
BIKE judgement³ GOOD
¹ Tested size marked in bold.
² BIKE measured values: Weight measured in tested size. The BIKE judgement is independent of price. It is made up of the six criteria and is based on rounded values. BIKE judgements: super, very good, good, satisfactory, with weaknesses, unsatisfactory.
MET Lupo
Price 119.95 Euro (e.g. available at Amazon)
Sizes¹ M 54-58, L 59-62
Weight² (10 %) 298 grammes
Equipment (10 %) Adjustable visor, twist lock, all-round head ring, buckle, gel padding, four-way height adjustment
Valuation
Security (30 %) 8 out of 10 points
Ventilation (20 %) 10 out of 10 points
Wearing comfort (15 %) 8 out of 10 points
Adjustment (15 %) 6 out of 10 points
CONCLUSION The neatly finished Lupo cools the head like a racing helmet, also thanks to the silicone forehead pad. The fit is a little wide, but quite successful. It just sits a little high on the head. The visor is not ideally integrated and the hard neck support can cause pressure points.
BIKE judgement³ VERY GOOD
O'NEAL Orbiter
Price 79.95 Euro (e.g. available at Amazon)
Sizes¹ XS/S 53-56, M/L 57-60, XL/XXL 61-64
Weight² (10 %) 332 grammes
Equipment (10 %) Visor, twist lock, magnetic lock, padding with fly protection
Valuation
Security (30 %) 9 out of 10 points
Ventilation (20 %) 4 out of 10 points
Wearing comfort (15 %) 4 out of 10 points
Adjustment (15 %) 7 out of 10 points
CONCLUSION The unusually wide shape of the Orbiter only fits a few heads. In combination with the protruding straps and the neck support that is positioned close to the head, it wobbles slightly. The thick padding retains a lot of heat, but has an insect screen. Top: the Fidlock magnetic lock.
BIKE judgement³ GOOD
SCOTT Vivo Plus
Price 139.95 Euro (e.g. available at Bergzeit)
Sizes¹ S 51-55, M 55-59, L 59-61
Weight² (10 %) 330 grammes
Equipment (10 %) Visor height-adjustable in 1 position, buckle, MIPS, triple height adjustment
Valuation
Security (30 %) 7 out of 10 points
Ventilation (20 %) 8 out of 10 points
Wearing comfort (15 %) 9 out of 10 points
Adjustment (15 %) 9 out of 10 points
CONCLUSION The fit of the Scott is one of the best in the test, but it could sit a little lower on the head. The straps are neatly fastened to the head. Ventilation channels allow plenty of air under the helmet. The filigree neck support can press on the sides. Scott skimps on the features.
BIKE judgement³ VERY GOOD
SIXSIXONE Evo AM
Price 179 Euro
Sizes¹ XS/S 54-56, M/L 57-59, XL/XXL 60-62
Weight² (10 %) 353 grammes
Equipment (10 %) Boa twist lock, all-round head ring, magnetic lock
Valuation
Security (30 %) 0 out of 10 points
Ventilation (20 %) 4 out of 10 points
Wearing comfort (15 %) 7 out of 10 points
Adjustment (15 %) 8 out of 10 points
CONCLUSION Boah swivel wheel, magnetic lock, large padding and all-round head ring are the highlights of the comfortable Evo AM. The ventilation is moderate and the helmet narrowly fails the flat impact test twice.
BIKE judgement³ UNSUFFICIENT
This helmet does not pass the test: As all helmets require a test seal for sale in Germany, no failures were actually to be expected in the BIKE test. Nevertheless, one helmet failed to meet the required values. The Evo AM from SixSixOne fell just short in two rounds with values of 252 and 248 g. Although the Evo AM would have passed the test with a value of 248 g, the testers deducted a small measurement tolerance for each measurement. The limit value with the calculated tolerance would be 244 g. We have asked the manufacturer for a statement on the test and will include this in the article as soon as possible.
SPECIALIZED Ambush
Price 179.90 Euro (e.g. available at Bobshop)
Sizes¹ S 52-56, M 56-60, L60-63
Weight² (10 %) 279 grammes
Equipment (10 %) Adjustable visor, twist lock, circumferential head ring, buckle, five-position height adjustment
Valuation
Security (30 %) 10 out of 10 points
Ventilation (20 %) 8 out of 10 points
Wearing comfort (15 %) 10 out of 10 points
Adjustment (15 %) 9 out of 10 points
CONCLUSION The Ambush is the archetypal enduro helmet. Thanks to the aramid reinforcement and deep-drawn shell, it provides excellent protection and is still very light. The fit and adjustment system are well thought out, as is the visor. The ventilation is excellent. Others are better made. Nevertheless: deserved test victory.
BIKE judgement³ VERY GOOD
UVEX Finale
Price 109.95 Euro (e.g. available at Rosebikes)
Sizes¹ 52-57, 56-61
Weight² (10 %) 347 grammes
Equipment (10 %) Twist lock, ratchet lock, chin pad, six-way height adjustment, fly screen
Valuation
Security (30 %) 8 out of 10 points
Ventilation (20 %) 8 out of 10 points
Wearing comfort (15 %) 10 out of 10 points
Adjustment (15 %) 9 out of 10 points
CONCLUSION As is typical for Uvex, the adjustment system with ratchet lock is very successful. Only the dial is a little undefined. It encloses the head far into the neck and sits extremely comfortably. Ventilation and TÜV values are at a high level. A visor adjustment would be the icing on the cake.
BIKE judgement³ VERY GOOD
¹ Tested size marked in bold.
² BIKE measured values: Weight measured in tested size. The BIKE judgement is independent of price. It is made up of the six criteria and is based on rounded values. BIKE judgements: super, very good, good, satisfactory, with weaknesses, unsatisfactory.
You can read this article or the entire BIKE 5/2016 issue in the BIKE app (iTunes and Google Play) or buy the issue in the DK shop reorder:
Stefan Frey
Editor
