Road Bike Helmet: A Guide to Choosing the Right One
If you’re an avid cyclist, you know that a helmet is one of the most important pieces of gear you can own. Not only is it required by law in many areas, but it can also save your life in the event of an accident. But with so many different types of helmets on the market, it can be tough to know which one is right for you.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at road bike helmets selection guide: history and evolution,key features and types, safety standards and certifications, brands and models, care and maintenance
Road bike helmets are designed specifically for cyclists who ride on paved roads. They are typically lightweight and aerodynamic, which can help reduce wind resistance and improve your speed. Most road bike helmets also feature ventilation systems to help keep you cool and comfortable during long rides. Some even come with additional features like integrated lights or built-in cameras.
When choosing a road bike helmet, there are a few key factors to consider. First and foremost, you want to make sure it fits properly and is comfortable to wear. You should also look for a helmet that meets safety standards set by organizations like the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) or the Snell Memorial Foundation. Additionally, you may want to consider features like ventilation, weight, and additional safety features when making your selection.
History and Evolution of Road Bike Helmets
Road bike helmets have come a long way since they were first introduced in the late 19th century. The first helmets were made of pith, a plant-based material that was readily available and relatively protective, but which shattered on impact and was therefore not reusable. In the early 20th century, leather helmets built. However, these early helmets were not very effective at protecting riders from head injuries.
It wasn’t until the 1970s that modern road bike helmets were developed. These helmets were made of expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam, which was much more effective at absorbing impact than the materials used in earlier helmets. The first EPS foam helmet was introduced by Bell in 1975. The helmet was called the Bell Biker and it was an instant success. The Bell Biker was followed by the Bell V1 Pro, which was the first helmet to use an internal cage to hold the foam in place.
In the 1980s, the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) began using Z80.4, the first set of bike helmet standards for the United States. These standards helped to weed out many of the less-than-safe helmets from the market while at the same time elevating the level of quality for helmets overall. About this time, weight also began to become a factor in helmet design. Manufacturers began to experiment with lighter materials, such as carbon fiber and Kevlar, which allowed helmets to be both strong and lightweight.
Today, road bike helmets are more advanced than ever before. They are designed to be as lightweight and aerodynamic as possible, while still providing maximum protection to the rider. Many helmets now feature advanced safety technologies, such as MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System), which is designed to reduce rotational forces on the brain in the event of a crash.
In conclusion, the evolution of road bike helmets has been a long and fascinating journey. From the early days of pith and leather helmets to the advanced EPS foam and MIPS helmets of today, manufacturers have continually pushed the boundaries of what is possible in helmet design. As a result, riders are now safer than ever before when they hit the road.
Sources:
- Back Then History
- Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute
- Gearist
- MIPS
Types of Road Bike Helmets
When it comes to road bike helmets, there are three main types: aero road helmets, lightweight road helmets, and convertible road helmets. Each type has its own unique features and benefits, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your needs.
Aero Road Helmets
Aero road helmets are designed to be as aerodynamic as possible, which makes them the preferred choice for competitive cyclists who are looking to shave off seconds from their time. These helmets are typically more streamlined than other types of road helmets, with fewer vents and a more compact shape. They also tend to be heavier than other road helmets, which can be a downside for some cyclists.
Lightweight Road Helmets
Lightweight road helmets, as the name suggests, are designed to be as light as possible. These helmets are a great choice for cyclists who are looking for maximum comfort and ventilation. They typically have more vents than aero road helmets, which allows for better airflow and helps to keep you cool during hot rides. Lightweight road helmets are also generally more affordable than aero road helmets.
Convertible Road Helmets
Convertible road helmets offer the best of both worlds. They can be worn as a traditional road helmet, or the top can be removed to convert them into an aero road helmet. This makes them a great choice for cyclists who want the versatility of both types of helmets without having to purchase two separate helmets. Convertible road helmets tend to be more expensive than other types of road helmets, but they are worth the investment if you want the flexibility to switch between aero and lightweight helmets.
In summary, when choosing a road bike helmet, it’s important to consider the type of riding you’ll be doing and the features that are most important to you. Whether you’re a competitive cyclist looking to shave off seconds from your time or a recreational cyclist looking for maximum comfort and ventilation, there’s a road bike helmet out there that’s perfect for you.
Safety Standards and Certifications
When it comes to road biking, safety should always be a top priority. Wearing a helmet is crucial to protecting yourself from head injuries in the event of a crash or fall. However, not all helmets are created equal. It’s important to look for helmets that meet certain safety standards and certifications.
CPSC
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is a U.S. government agency that regulates the safety of consumer products, including bicycle helmets. The CPSC has established a safety standard for bicycle helmets, known as CPSC 16 CFR Part 1203. This standard requires helmets to meet certain impact resistance and retention system requirements. Look for helmets that are CPSC certified to ensure that they meet these safety requirements.
CE EN1078
If you’re riding in Europe, you’ll want to look for helmets that meet the CE EN1078 safety standard. This standard requires helmets to meet impact resistance and retention system requirements, similar to the CPSC standard. However, it also includes additional requirements for field of vision, shock absorption, and strap strength. Helmets that meet the CE EN1078 standard will have a CE mark on them.
ASTM F1447
Another safety standard to look for is the ASTM F1447 standard, which is used in the United States and Canada. This standard requires helmets to meet impact resistance and retention system requirements, similar to the CPSC and CE EN1078 standards. However, it also includes additional requirements for strap strength, ventilation, and coverage area. Look for helmets that are ASTM F1447 certified to ensure that they meet these safety requirements.
By choosing a helmet that meets one of these safety standards and certifications, you can ride with confidence knowing that you’re wearing a helmet that has been tested and certified to provide adequate protection in the event of a crash or fall.
Key Features to Consider
When it comes to buying a road bike helmet, there are several key features that you should consider to ensure that you get the right fit, comfort, and protection. Here are the three most important features to keep in mind:
Fit and Comfort
The fit of your helmet is crucial to your safety and comfort. A helmet that is too loose or too tight can be uncomfortable and may not provide the protection you need in the event of a crash. To ensure a proper fit, measure the circumference of your head and choose a helmet that matches your size. Most helmets come with adjustable straps and pads that can help you customize the fit to your liking.
When trying on a helmet, make sure it sits level on your head and covers your forehead. The helmet should be snug but not too tight, and should not move around when you shake your head. If you wear glasses, make sure the helmet is compatible with them and does not interfere with your vision.
Ventilation
Ventilation is another important feature to consider when choosing a road bike helmet. A well-ventilated helmet will keep your head cool and dry, even on hot and humid days. Look for helmets with multiple vents that allow air to flow through the helmet and circulate around your head. Some helmets also come with removable pads that can be washed to keep them fresh and clean.
Adjustability
Adjustability is also an important factor to consider when choosing a road bike helmet. Most helmets come with adjustable straps and pads that can be customized to fit your head. Look for helmets with easy-to-use adjustment systems that allow you to make quick and easy changes on the go. Some helmets also come with adjustable visors that can be moved up or down to block the sun or rain.
Top Brands and Models
When it comes to road bike helmets, there are several brands and models to choose from. In this section, we will highlight some of the top brands and models that you should consider.
Giro
Giro is a well-known brand in the cycling industry, and they offer a wide range of road bike helmets. One of their top models is the Giro Synthe MIPS helmet, which is designed for performance and comfort. This helmet features a lightweight design, excellent ventilation, and a comfortable fit. It also has MIPS technology, which provides added protection in the event of an impact.
Bell
Bell is another popular brand that offers high-quality road bike helmets. One of their top models is the Bell Z20 MIPS helmet, which is designed for speed and comfort. This helmet features a lightweight design, excellent ventilation, and a comfortable fit. It also has MIPS technology, which provides added protection in the event of an impact.
Specialized
Specialized is a brand that is known for its innovative designs and high-quality products. One of their top models is the Specialized S-Works Evade II helmet, which is designed for speed and aerodynamics. This helmet features a lightweight design, excellent ventilation, and a comfortable fit. It also has a unique design that helps to reduce drag and improve aerodynamics.
Overall, these brands and models are some of the best options on the market when it comes to road bike helmets. They offer excellent performance, comfort, and protection, and they are sure to meet the needs of any serious cyclist.
Maintenance and Care
Taking proper care of your road bike helmet is important to ensure its longevity and effectiveness. Here are some tips to help you maintain and care for your helmet:
Cleaning
Regular cleaning of your helmet is essential to maintain its integrity and ensure rider safety. You can wash your helmet by hand using a soft sponge or microfiber cloth and soapy water, or you can use a helmet-specific cleaner. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions before cleaning your helmet. You should also pay attention to the inside of your helmet, as sweat and oils can build up over time. You can clean the interior padding using a mild soap and water, or you can remove the pads and wash them separately.
Inspection
Regular inspection of your helmet is also important to ensure its effectiveness. You should inspect your helmet for any signs of damage, such as cracks, dents, or scratches. If you notice any damage, you should replace your helmet immediately. You should also check the straps and buckles to make sure they are functioning properly. If any of the straps or buckles are damaged, you should replace them as well.
Replacement
Even if your helmet has not sustained any visible damage, it is recommended that you replace it every five years. Over time, the materials in your helmet can break down and become less effective. If you have been involved in a crash, you should replace your helmet immediately, even if there is no visible damage. Helmets are designed to absorb impact, and they can only do so once. After a crash, the materials in your helmet may be compromised, making it less effective in the future.
By following these tips, you can help ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your road bike helmet. Remember to clean your helmet regularly, inspect it for damage, and replace it every five years or after a crash.
