Crash test bike helmets: 19 helmets for trail and touring compared

We tested the helmets:

• 100% Altis >> available here
• Abus Modrop >> available here
• Alpina Stan MIPS >> available here
• Bell Super Air Spherical >> available here
• Bluegrass Rogue Core MIPS
• Bontrager Blaze WaveCell >> available here
• Cube MTB Strover >> available here
• Endura MT500 >> available here
• Fox Speedframe Pro >> available here
• Giro Merit Spherical >> available here
• IXS Trigger AM MIPS >> available here
• Julbo Forest Evo >> available here
• Leatt MTB AllMtn 3.0 >> available here
• Met Roam MIPS >> available here
• POC Kortal Race MIPS >> available here
• Rockrider MTB Feel >> available here
• Scott Tago Plus >> available here
• Specialised Ambush 2 >> available here
• TLD Flowline SE >> available here

Click to go to the individual rating

The topics in this test

The test overview

Facts, figures and data

Interview with Christiane Reckter, TÜV engineer

How BIKE tests

The test overview

250 times the acceleration due to gravity. This is the limit value that a bicycle helmet must fall below in the standardised test in order to be approved for sale. 250 g - a value that seems ridiculously high when you consider that a maximum of 4 g is applied during a rollercoaster ride. According to the Guinness Book of Records, the maximum g-force that a person can survive is 180, which is still well below the limit value of the current EN 1078 test standard. And Prof. Dr Stefan Lorenzl, a neurology specialist, also knows that 250 g can come together in a fall from 1.5 metres frontally onto the head. Without a helmet, this can be fatal.

Own test bench for the laboratory test

It is therefore absolutely clear to us that a helmet that just about fulfils the standard should not be an option for bikers. The lower the acceleration acting on the head in the event of a fall, the lower the risk of injury. Dr Lorenzl agrees with this. He knows from experience that since more and more cyclists have been wearing helmets, there have been significantly fewer serious and fatal injuries. However, because manufacturers do not print the g-value determined in the standardised test on their helmets, nor can it be seen from the outside how well a model actually protects, we test every helmet on our in-house test stand. This is absolutely unique in the industry. However, there is another reason why we do not simply rely on the CE seal, which must be printed on every helmet. "While a rotation test was also introduced in the motorbike sector in 2022 with ECE 22.06, there are still discussions about adapting the standard in the bicycle sector," explains Marcus Seyffarth. He is Head of Implementation and responsible at MIPS for integrating the system into the various manufacturers' helmets.

Reason enough for us to construct a test rig that is based on the modern methods of respected research institutions and measures how well a helmet protects against the risk of concussion. The different rotation systems promise this protection. However, the standard fails to provide proof of this. The Swedish company MIPS is regarded as a pioneer when it comes to reducing harmful rotational forces on the brain. The characteristic yellow shell and its now numerous variations can be found in a total of 14 test models.

In addition to MIPS, there are other systems such as 360° Turbine (Leatt), WaveCell (Bontrager) and Smartshock (100%). Apart from MIPS, however, we were only able to demonstrate a positive effect against rotational forces with WaveCell. Both reduce the risk of concussion by more than 50 per cent on average compared to helmets without these systems. And there is also good news when it comes to pure acceleration forces: At 129.7 g, even the worst helmet in this test is still below the limit value.

>> MIPS helmet and co: How do rotation systems in bike helmets work? <<

Regardless of its protective function, a helmet must of course still sit comfortably even after hours in the saddle. That's why, in addition to the crash tests, we measured the ventilation on a test stand that we also developed, determined the weight and assessed the fitting system. So to find the optimum helmet, it's worth taking a look at the Profiles. However, because the personal head shape plays a decisive role in the fit, there is no way around trying on the helmet of your choice. A helmet that is not worn because it does not fit properly can still achieve good results in the laboratory. As long as it doesn't sit on your head, even a minor fall can have serious consequences.

It's the details that count!

There are many good helmets on the market. But only if the manufacturers pay attention to the small details can they make a very good helmet.

Comment by Stefan Frey, BIKE test editor

The right fit is almost as important as the protection factor. If the helmet cannot be optimally adjusted, this is a safety risk. Extremely annoying: if the goggles collide with the helmet!

Alternative rotation systems

In addition to MIPS, the test also includes three other technologies for reducing rotational forces.

Smartshock / 100%

Small, movable elastomers are integrated between the helmet shell and padding. The Smartshock buffers are designed to absorb shocks and dissipate the rotational energy that occurs in the event of an angled impact. On the test bench, Smartshock did not have a convincing effect.

WaveCell / Bontrager

WaveCell is a compressible cell structure on the inside of the helmet shell. In the event of an impact, the cells bend, are then compressed like a bumper and are ultimately designed to move in order to dissipate the energy away from the head. The system is below the average MIPS value.

360˚ Turbine / Leatt

Small, 360-degree movable discs made of flexible plastic on the inside of the helmet shell are designed to absorb linear impacts by up to 30 percent and reduce rotational acceleration by up to 40 percent. Compared to helmets with MIPS, the risk of concussion is significantly higher.

Facts, figures and data

Risk of concussion in per cent

The table shows the probability of a biker suffering an average concussion in the fall scenario we simulated. This can be calculated from the measured rotational movements (BrIC, Brain Injury Criterion). The relationship between BrIC and the probability of a concussion (according to the AIS code) is not linear. The probability is therefore more suitable for the assessment. The risk of concussion is between 6 and 44 per cent. For helmets with MIPS, we determined an average risk of head injury of 16.2 per cent. In comparison, the risk for models without MIPS is 35.5 per cent. MIPS significantly reduces the risk of suffering a concussion, although this depends on the system installed. Only Bontrager's WaveCel technology delivers comparably good values. Despite the lack of MIPS, we were able to determine a passable value for rotation protection with Abus, which is related to the construction of the helmet shell and padding.

Acceleration in g

All the helmets in the test remain well below the standard (250 g - not grams, but g-force) in terms of acceleration values, i.e. the forces that still act on the head in the event of an impact. However, the range extends from 84.2 g (Specialized) to 129.7 g (Endura) and shows that the helmets offer different levels of protection. Here too, many MIPS helmets are far ahead with good values. However, there is no correlation between reduced rotational acceleration and good shock absorption. The IXS Trigger AM already delivered similar acceleration values in the last test in 2020, albeit without the MIPS system at the time. The rotational values were almost twice as high.

Interview with Christiane Reckter, TÜV engineer: 100 g make a huge difference!

BIKE: Is there a safety problem with bike helmets?

CHRISTIANE RECKTER: No, there are almost no problems with helmets. If there are, it's 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, etc. A helmet cannot provide effective protection like that. Of course, a helmet cannot provide effective protection in this way. The fit is therefore extremely important. Super important! Many helmets have a head ring that can be fastened, but if the helmet is too big, it can quickly become dangerous. Why? Because the helmet hits first and then your head hits the helmet that is too big. The result: craniocerebral trauma. This doesn't happen with suitable helmets. 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. 100 g make a huge difference.

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 five years. However, this does not mean that the helmet is no longer safe after five years due to material ageing. It can still provide just as good protection after 20 years.

MIPS - how it works

Back in 1996, Hans von Holst and Peter Halldin discovered the damaging effect of an oblique impact. The MIPS they developed was designed to reduce the risk of head injury. That's what's behind it.

Scientific research shows that the brain is particularly sensitive to rotation. According to Prof Stefan Lorenzl, MD, a specialist in neurology, so-called dissections and vascular injuries are particularly common in the event of an oblique impact. MIPS is designed to reduce rotational energy in the event of an impact by enabling the low-friction MIPS shell (yellow) to allow the helmet to slide in an offset position in relation to the head. This converts rotational energy into translational energy. As with a fall on ice, the head can continue to move in the original direction.

There are now various versions of MIPS that allow a relative rotation between the helmet and head of 10 to 15 millimetres. In our test, the probability of suffering a concussion with a helmet equipped with MIPS (according to the AIS code) was around 16 per cent on average. Objective studies or a specific test standard do not yet exist for this. However, in view of the highly significant values, Dr Lorenzl is also convinced of the effectiveness. Incidentally, there are five variants of MIPS in the test field, which we explain briefly below. The effectiveness of the individual systems depends heavily on how they are integrated into the helmet. In general, it cannot be said that one particular design provides better protection than another.

These MIPS systems are available

Essential

Essential or the classic MIPS with a yellow shell, the so-called LFL (Low Friction Layer), is used particularly in high-volume models or low-cost helmets. It is held in the helmet by small elastomers. In the test, we measured BrIC values of between 6 and 26 per cent.

Evolve Core

Like Essential, Evolve Core sits between the helmet shell and padding. The LFL is designed to fit the helmet more precisely to improve ventilation and reduce weight. Scott, Julbo and Troy Lee, for example, rely on this system, but only achieve moderately good results.

Air

Air Here, the anti-rotation protection is integrated almost invisibly into the helmet padding. This saves weight and does not impair ventilation with an additional layer. The sliding layer is located on the inside of the padding. IXS and Specialized achieved good results in the test.

Spherical

Bell and Giro rely on an elaborate construction that other manufacturers call Integra Split. The helmets consist of two separate shells that can be twisted against each other. The construction is complex and expensive. Both provide a good level of protection in the test.

Integra Fuse

Integra Fuse combines Poc's own SPIN system with MIPS. Here, the padding contains a type of silicone that can move in all directions. Similar to MIPS Air, the advantages are said to be low weight and good ventilation. In any case, the rotational protection is very good.

How BIKE tests

Laboratory test

MIPS & Co. are designed to measurably reduce the risk of head injuries by reducing the rotational forces that occur in the event of an oblique impact. The existing test standard for helmets, EN 1078, cannot reflect these scenarios. In order to test the current generation of helmets realistically, we have developed a helmet test rig ourselves and orientated ourselves on the methods used in science and by research-based manufacturers. For the test, the helmet is fitted to an aluminium test head weighing 4.9 kilograms. During the simulated fall, the helmet and head are guided on a sled and hit a steel surface inclined at an angle of 45 degrees at a speed of 21 kilometres per hour. Sandpaper with a grain size of 40 imitates the roughness of the surface - this is similar to the test facilities at Virginia Tech, Folksam and other research institutes. The sled whizzes past the contact surface and releases the helmet, which bounces away after the impact. A six-component sensor in the test head records acceleration and rotation rates around the three axes in space on impact and in the subsequent flight phase.

On the first attempt, the helmet hits the front, on the second, the side. We analyse the acceleration according to the highest resulting value - the lower, the better. The average value from four measurements is given. We convert the head rotation into the BrIC (Brain Injury Criterion), which indicates how damaging the movement is to the brain. This method is widely used in science and allows us to make statements about the probability of a concussion using the so-called AIS code. We test the ventilation of the helmets using a powerful fan that accelerates the airflow to up to 30 km/h. The heated, helmeted head is exposed to the flow and we determine the cooling capacity. This accounts for 20 per cent of the final rating, while the weight of the helmet accounts for 15 per cent.

Practical test

We systematically evaluate the harness system and headband according to a variety of criteria in terms of function and handling, each of which accounts for ten per cent of the rating and is summarised in the fit rating. Several BIKE testers check the fit, adjustment and comfort.

100% Altis

CONCLUSIONS: Smartshock shows hardly any effect in the laboratory test, and the shock absorption is only moderate. Despite the comfortable padding, the plastic bumpers can cause pressure. Narrow inlets on the forehead impede the flow of air. The Altec sits comfortably on normal-oval heads but offers neither height adjustment nor adjustment of the straps under the ears. Can be easily slipped off at the back.

Technical data and notes 100% Altis

Manufacturer information

• Price : 125 Euro >> available here
• Weight (58 cm)¹: 361 grams
• Sizes in cm: XS-S 50-55 /S-M 55-59 /L-XL 59-63
• Extras/spare parts: Replacement pads; Goggle holder; Smartshock rotation system

Measured values²

• 120.5 g / 35 % / 92.6 watts

Valuation

• Protection rotation (20 %): 5 out of 10 points
• Shock absorption (25 %): 6 out of 10 points
• Ventilation (20 %): 6 out of 10 points
• Weight (15 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Adjustment (20 %): 7 out of 10 points

BIKE judgement³: 38 points - satisfactory

Abus Modrop - BIKE Tip: Price/performance

CONCLUSIONS: Lightweight, comfortable, well ventilated - the Modrop is a solid helmet for touring bikers with a rather narrow head. Great: made in Germany and one of the few with a fly net. Even without MIPS, the rotational protection is acceptable and the impact protection is at a good level. The Modrop is also available with MIPS or with a Quin crash sensor. Highly recommended price.

Technical data and notes Abus Modrop

Manufacturer information

• Price: 79,95 Euro >> available here
• Weight (58 cm)¹: 330 grams
• Sizes in cm: S 51-55 / M54-58 / L57-61
• Extras/spare parts: Fly net; plait compatible; Quin preparation; goggle compatible

Measured values²

• 100.1 g / 26 % / 104.6 watts

Valuation

• Protection rotation (20 %): 6 out of 10 points
• Shock absorption (25 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Ventilation (20 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Weight (15 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Adjustment (20 %): 9 out of 10 points

BIKE judgement³: 48 points - good

Alpina Stan MIPS

CONCLUSIONS: Alpina relies on classic values for the Stan: slim cut, low weight, sporty look. Despite MIPS, the Stan only moderately reduces rotational forces. But the features and adjustment system are great. Adjustable straps, customisable ratchet lock, automatic height adjustment and a rubberised, easy-to-use dial. Top! Fits narrower heads.

Technical data and notes Alpina Stan MIPS

Manufacturer information

• Price: 129,95 Euro >> available here
• Weight (58 cm)¹: 327 grams
• Sizes in cm: 51-55 / 55-59 / 60-64
• Extras/spare parts: Ratchet fastening; fly net; rubberised turning wheel; chin pad

Measured values²

• 97.6 g / 26 % / 94.6 watts

Valuation

• Protection rotation (20 %): 6 out of 10 points
• Shock absorption (25 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Ventilation (20 %): 6 out of 10 points
• Weight (15 %): 9 out of 10 points
• Adjustment (20 %): 10 out of 10 points

BIKE judgement³: 48 points - good

Bell Super Air Spherical

CONCLUSIONS: Bell delivers an extremely high-quality helmet with elaborate MIPS integration. The rotation values are okay, but weight and ventilation suffer from the thick shell. A camera mount is included in the scope of delivery, the adjustment system is rather poor. In the top position, the non-slip dial is almost completely covered. The Super Air also fits well on round heads. Very heavy!

Technical data and notes Bell Super Air Spherical

Manufacturer information

• Price: 250 Euro >> available here
• Weight (58 cm)¹: 427 grammes
• Sizes in cm: S 52-56 / M55-59 / L58-62
• Extras/spare parts: Sweat drainage at the front; goggle gripper at the back; camera mount; pouch

Measured values²

• 104.7 g / 19 % / 85.6 watts

Valuation

• Protection rotation (20 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Shock absorption (25 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Ventilation (20 %): 4 out of 10 points
• Weight (15 %): 5 out of 10 points
• Adjustment (20 %): 7 out of 10 points

BIKE judgement³: 41 points - satisfactory

Bluegrass Rogue Core MIPS - Test winner

CONCLUSIONS: The Bluegrass really shines in the lab and is way ahead in terms of impact and rotation protection. The ventilation is also excellent. Although the Rogue has a very round cut, the circumferential headband also secures oval heads well. Comfortable silicone neck support. The visor adjustment is not rasterised, the rotary wheel is a little awkward. Height adjustment only via push buttons.

Technical data and notes Bluegrass Rogue Core MIPS

Manufacturer information

• Price: 170 Euro
• Weight (58 cm)¹: 359 grams
• Sizes in cm: S 52-56 / M56-58 / L58-61
• Extras/spare parts: Fidlock magnetic lock; circumferential headband; pouch

Measured values²

• 94.9 g / 6 % / 109.5 watts

Valuation

• Protection rotation (20 %): 10 out of 10 points
• Shock absorption (25 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Ventilation (20 %): 10 out of 10 points
• Weight (15 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Adjustment (20 %): 8 out of 10 points

BIKE judgement³: 52 points - very good

Bontrager Blaze WaveCell

CONCLUSIONS: As in the last test, WaveCell significantly reduces rotational forces. The Blaze also has an excellent adjustment system with a finely graduated Boa dial, magnetic lock and perfectly adjustable straps. The padding and neck support are also very comfortable to wear. On the other hand, the high weight and the rather low ventilation are a drawback. Oval shape.

Technical data and notes Bontrager Blaze WaveCell

• Price: 215,99 Euro >> available here
• Weight (58 cm)¹: 430 grams
• Sizes in cm: S 51-57 / M54-60 / L58-63
• Extras/spare parts: Boa swivel wheel; camera mount; Fidlock magnetic lock; spare padding

Measured values²

• 103.5 g / 7 % / 92.6 watts

Valuation

• Protection rotation (20 %): 10 out of 10 points
• Shock absorption (25 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Ventilation (20 %): 6 out of 10 points
• Weight (15 %): 5 out of 10 points
• Adjustment (20 %): 10 out of 10 points

BIKE judgement³: 47 points - good

Cube MTB Strover

CONCLUSIONS: The Cube scores with solid laboratory values and extensive features. Two accessory mounts are integrated into the helmet. Height and width adjustment are great. However, the bulky strap dividers don't run perfectly and the padding also provides a manageable level of comfort. The headband is not circumferential, which makes the helmet slide backwards more easily. Oval shape.

Technical data and notes Cube MTB Strover

• Price: 199,95 Euro >> available here
• Weight (58 cm)¹: 337 grams
• Sizes in cm: S 49-55 / M52-57 / L57-62
• Extras/spare parts: 2 integrated adapters for accessories; Coolmax padding, Fidlock magnetic lock

Measured values²

• 95.4 g / 9 % / 98.6 watts

Valuation

• Protection rotation (20 %): 9 out of 10 points
• Shock absorption (25 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Ventilation (20 %): 7 out of 10 points
• Weight (15 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Adjustment (20 %): 8 out of 10 points

BIKE judgement³: 49 points - good

Endura MT500

CONCLUSIONS: In addition to the Koroyd honeycombs, Endura now also uses MIPS. This means that the MT500 scores highly in terms of ventilation and rotation protection. However, the shock absorption is only moderate. The high-quality workmanship is complemented by a camera mount and a rubber coating at the rear for goggles. The bulky ear dividers fit quite tightly and the hard neck support can pinch. Fits normal-oval heads.

Technical data and notes Endura MT500

• Price: 199,99 Euro >> available here
• Weight (58 cm)¹: 407 grammes
• Sizes in cm: S 51-56 / M55-59 / L58-63
• Extras/spare parts: Goggle gripper; accessory mount

Measured values²

• 129.7 g / 21 % / 100.6 watts

Valuation

• Protection rotation (20 %): 7 out of 10 points
• Shock absorption (25 %): 5 out of 10 points
• Ventilation (20 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Weight (15 %): 6 out of 10 points
• Adjustment (20 %): 7 out of 10 points

BIKE judgement³: 41 points - satisfactory

Fox Speedframe Pro

CONCLUSIONS: Visually, the racy Fox is an eye-catcher, and the anti-rotation protection is also excellent. In terms of the remaining laboratory values, it is only in the midfield and is also quite heavy. The elongated, narrow shape means they tend to fit slimmer heads. Good: low-set ear dividers, magnetic lock and easy-grip dial. However, the narrow, inflexible neck support can be a bit tight.

Technical data and notes Fox Speedframe Pro

• Price: 174,99 Euro >> available here
• Weight (58 cm)¹: 405 grams
• Sizes in cm: S 51-55 / M55-59 / L59-63
• Extras/spare parts: Fidlock magnetic lock; antimicrobial padding; spare padding

Measured values²

• 113.4 g / 15 % / 93.6 watts

Valuation

• Protection rotation (20 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Shock absorption (25 %): 6 out of 10 points
• Ventilation (20 %): 6 out of 10 points
• Weight (15 %): 6 out of 10 points
• Adjustment (20 %): 8 out of 10 points

BIKE judgement³: 43 points - satisfactory

Giro Merit Spherical

CONCLUSIONS: Giro also elaborately integrates MIPS between two helmet shells and thus achieves good values. Ventilation and weight are significantly better than with Bell. The Merit is also comfortably padded and broadly supported at the neck. The dial and strap adjustment are well done. However, the normal-oval helmet sits less snugly and is easy to pull back.

Technical data and notes Giro Merit Spherical

• Price: 220 Euro >> available here
• Weight (58 cm)¹: 358 grammes
• Sizes in cm: S 51-55 / M55-59 / L59-63
• Extras/spare parts: Glasses and goggle holder

Measured values²

• 103.6 g / 14 % / 103.6 watts

Valuation

• Protection rotation (20 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Shock absorption (25 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Ventilation (20 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Weight (15 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Adjustment (20 %): 8 out of 10 points

BIKE judgement³: 48 points - good

IXS Trigger AM MIPS

CONCLUSIONS: IXS now also offers its classic with smart integrated MIPS Air. This significantly improves rotational protection. However, shock absorption and ventilation are in the bottom third. The voluminous helmet tends to fit rounder heads, is comfortably padded, including in the neck, but sits loosely on the forehead. Top features: magnetic lock, rubberised dial, chin pad.

Technical data and notes IXS Trigger AM MIPS

• Price: 189 Euro >> available here
• Weight (58 cm)¹: 370 grammes
• Sizes in cm: S 54-58 / M56-60 / L58-62
• Extras/spare parts: Chin pad; rubberised turning wheel; Fidlock magnetic lock; goggle-compatible

Measured values²

• 123.3 g / 10 % / 92.6 watts

Valuation

• Protection rotation (20 %): 9 out of 10 points
• Shock absorption (25 %): 6 out of 10 points
• Ventilation (20 %): 6 out of 10 points
• Weight (15 %): 7 out of 10 points
• Adjustment (20 %): 9 out of 10 points

BIKE judgement³: 44 points - satisfactory

Julbo Forest Evo

CONCLUSIONS: Julbo's first product delivers good safety values and excellent ventilation. Thanks to extensive customisation, the Forest can be perfectly adjusted to the wearer, but still sits wobbly on oval heads due to its very round shape. Clever: integrated goggle holder. Less good: very short chin strap, difficult to operate rotary wheel at the rear despite rubber coating.

Technical data and notes Julbo Forest Evo

• Price: 189,90 Euro >> available here
• Weight (58 cm)¹: 392 grams
• Sizes in cm: 52-56 / 56-59 / 59-63
• Extras/spare parts: Goggle holder; Fidlock magnetic lock; Coolmax padding

Measured values²

• 103.8 g / 22 % / 110.5 watts

Valuation

• Protection rotation (20 %): 7 out of 10 points
• Shock absorption (25 %): 7 out of 10 points
• Ventilation (20 %): 10 out of 10 points
• Weight (15 %): 6 out of 10 points
• Adjustment (20 %): 9 out of 10 points

BIKE judgement³: 48 points - good

Leatt MTB AllMtn 3.0

CONCLUSIONS: Despite the high weight, the Leatt sits comfortably - this is due to the good adjustability, the great strap guidance and the comfortable padding. The large openings also ensure good ventilation. In terms of impact and rotation protection, however, the Leatt comes a long way down the field. The blue 360° Turbine shock absorbers were not convincing on the test bench.

Technical data and grades Leatt MTB AllMtn 3.0

• Price: 159 Euro >> available here
• Weight (58 cm)¹: 422 grammes
• Sizes in cm: S 51-55 / M55-59 / L59-63
• Extras/spare parts: Fidlock magnetic lock; sunglasses port; spare padding; 360° Turbine technology

Measured values²

• 122.7 g / 44 % / 110.5 watts

Valuation

• Protection rotation (20 %): 4 out of 10 points
• Shock absorption (25 %): 6 out of 10 points
• Ventilation (20 %): 10 out of 10 points
• Weight (15 %): 5 out of 10 points
• Adjustment (20 %): 8 out of 10 points

BIKE judgement³: 42 points - satisfactory

Met Roam MIPS

CONCLUSION: Thanks to extensive customisation options, the slightly wider cut Roam fits many heads. The neck support is width-adjustable, but inflexible and somewhat hard. In terms of impact and rotation protection, the Met is one of the best. The helmet shell can pinch in the neck area. The visor has a guide for the goggle strap. Rather poor ventilation.

Technical data and notes Met Roam MIPS

• Price: 190 Euro >> available here
• Weight (58 cm)¹: 359 grammes
• Sizes in cm: S 52-56 / M56-58 / L58-62
• Extras/spare parts: Goggle clip; adjustable neck support; plait opening

Measured values²

• 85.4 g / 14 % / 95.6 watts

Valuation

• Protection rotation (20 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Shock absorption (25 %): 9 out of 10 points
• Ventilation (20 %): 6 out of 10 points
• Weight (15 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Adjustment (20 %): 8 out of 10 points

BIKE judgement³: 48 points - good

POC Kortal Race MIPS

CONCLUSIONS: When it comes to safety, Poc pulls out all the stops: in addition to the top values on the test bench, there is a Recco chip and NFC sensors for storing medical data. Ventilation is also good. MIPS has been cleverly integrated into the padding as a kind of gel. The narrow, low-set shape does not suit everyone. Height and visor adjustment are extremely stiff.

Technical data and notes POC Kortal Race MIPS

• Price: 250 Euro >> available here
• Weight (58 cm)¹: 398 grams
• Sizes in cm: S 51-54 / M55-58 / L59-62
• Extras/spare parts: Recco & NFC sensor; Breakaway visor

Measured values²

• 90 g / 13 % / 104.6 watts

Valuation

• Protection rotation (20 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Shock absorption (25 %): 9 out of 10 points
• Ventilation (20 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Weight (15 %): 6 out of 10 points
• Adjustment (20 %): 7 out of 10 points

BIKE judgement³: 47 points - good

Rockrider MTB Feel

CONCLUSIONS: For just 60 euros, Decathlon offers a helmet with an appealing finish and a snug fit - including a magnetic lock and automatic height adjustment. However, you have to do without MIPS. As a result, the MTB Feel is only mid-table in terms of protection. It is criticised for its weak padding, lack of visor adjustment and bulky strap dividers without adjustment options.

Technical data and grades Rockrider MTB Feel

• Price: 59,99 Euro >> available here
• Weight (58 cm)¹: 332 grams
• Sizes in cm: M 55- 59 / L59-62
• Extras/spare parts: Fidlock magnetic lock, circumferential, 3-way height-adjustable headband

Measured values²

• 101 g / 37 % / 103.6 watts

Valuation

• Protection rotation (20 %): 5 out of 10 points
• Shock absorption (25 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Ventilation (20 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Weight (15 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Adjustment (20 %): 6 out of 10 points

BIKE judgement³: 44 points - satisfactory

Scott Tago Plus

CONCLUSIONS: With slightly better lab results, the Scott would have come out on top. Its adjustment system is top: great dial, perfect strap guidance and comfortable padding. It is also lightweight and fits many head shapes. Its look is less radical and also okay for classic touring bikers. Rather mid-range in terms of rotation and impact protection, but super in terms of wearing comfort.

Technical data and notes Scott Tago Plus

• Price: 159,95 Euro >> available here
• Weight (58 cm)¹: 346 grammes
• Sizes in cm: S 51-55 / M55-59 / L59-61
• Extras/spare parts: Rubberised rotary wheel; compatible with glasses

Measured values²

• 101.4 g / 26 % / 95.6 watts

Valuation

• Protection rotation (20 %): 6 out of 10 points
• Shock absorption (25 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Ventilation (20 %): 6 out of 10 points
• Weight (15 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Adjustment (20 %): 10 out of 10 points

BIKE judgement³: 47 points - good

Specialised Ambush 2 - BIKE Tip: Safety

CONCLUSIONS: Like its predecessor, the Ambush 2 also delivers excellent laboratory values for impact and rotation protection - only the ventilation could be better. MIPS is inconspicuously integrated into the padding, which saves weight. The dial integrated into the shell is smooth and easy to operate. The headrest could be lower. There is no visor adjustment.

Technical data and notes Specialised Ambush 2

• Price: 180 Euro >> available here
• Weight (58 cm)¹: 348 grams
• Sizes in cm: S 51-56 / M55-59 / L58-62
• Extras/spare parts: Rotary wheel integrated in helmet shell

Measured values²

• 84.2 g / 13 % / 94.6 watts

Valuation

• Protection rotation (20 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Shock absorption (25 %): 10 out of 10 points
• Ventilation (20 %): 6 out of 10 points
• Weight (15 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Adjustment (20 %): 7 out of 10 points

BIKE judgement³: 49 points - good

TLD Flowline SE

CONCLUSIONS: Although the new Flowline SE is rather wide, it can also be easily adjusted to fit narrow heads thanks to the successful adjustment system - but then the helmet looks very bulky. Softly padded and sufficiently ventilated, it provides plenty of comfort. The values on the test bench are both in the green zone. However, the Flowline does not come close to the qualities of the older A1.

Technical data and notes TLD Flowline SE

• Price: 189,99 Euro >> available here
• Weight (58 cm)¹: 385 grams
• Sizes in cm: XS-S 53-56 /M-L 57-59 /XL-XXL 60-63
• Extras/spare parts: Fidlock magnetic lock; antibacterial padding

Measured values²

• 100.3 g / 19 % / 104.6 watts

Valuation

• Protection rotation (20 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Shock absorption (25 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Ventilation (20 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Weight (15 %): 7 out of 10 points
• Adjustment (20 %): 9 out of 10 points

BIKE judgement³: 48 points - good

¹BIKE measured value

²Acceleration in g / probability of an average concussion in %, low values are better / cooling capacity in watts, high values are better

The BIKE judgement reflects the laboratory measurements and the subjective impression of the testers. The BIKE judgement is independent of price. BIKE judgements: super (60 - 56 P.), very good (55 - 51 P.), good (50 - 46 P.), satisfactory (45 - 35 P.), with weaknesses, unsatisfactory.