As bike racers, we obsess with the very latest tech in wheels, drivetrains, frames and tires. Yet the one item that can help us get faster, be more comfortable, and most importantly, save our life, often gets neglected until it’s so nasty it needs replacement, or until we take a tumble and wreck it.
While many have debated the benefits of tech trends like single chainrings, disc brakes and thru axles, helmets have benefited from a quiet revolution in technology. And they have emerged faster, lighter, more comfortable and if you are to believe all of the company literature out there, safer as well, all of which is awesome. We rounded up a selection of the latest lids in Issue 30, and in true Cyclocross Magazine fashion, looked to see which ones are are best suited for your mixed terrain racing and adventures.
In this first installment, we're reviewing some of the top aero offerings. While the benefits of such helmets are greater at road racing speeds, there are still advantages to be had. Aside from being aero, some of these helmets can keep you warmer on a cool day and a measure drier on a rainy one. While aero helmets aren't every riders' cup of tea, they fit the bill for some. In the next installment we'll show you some more traditional lids.
For now, let's look at some wind-cheating head gear.
by the CXM Test Crew
Giro Air Attack
Arguably the one that started the aero trend of non-time trial helmets, the Air Attack now faces competition from other brands and from Giro’s own Synthe. But the iconic Air Attack still stands alone in style, weatherproofness, its massive optional visor shield and in both good and bad ways, warmth.
On race day, when it’s cold or pouring outside, there’s no other helmet we’d prefer. But despite all the potential speed gains due to the aerodynamic design, the lower speeds of cyclocross bring two strikes against the helmet. First, the aerodynamic gains are much lower at slower speeds—keep in mind time gains and speed aren’t a linear relationship. Second, much of the ventilation of the Air Attack depends on those fast road racing speeds. While you’re navigating all those hairpins and run-ups, there’s little ventilation for that heat to escape. Live in a warm climate? Keep it in the bag for colder days or consider pouring cold water on your head before the start.
Safety: One can argue, with just six small vents, the outer shell of the Air Attack should protect more of your head, and have less weak points created by lots of vents. Giro’s in-mold construction that fuses the outer polycarbonate shell to the EPS keeps the helmet together over time.
Fit: The three sizes of the Air Attack, combined with the excellent and tiltadjustable Roc Loc Air system ensures most heads will find a good fit. If you don’t opt for the shield, take comfort in knowing most shades seem to be compatible with the helmet.
Heads Up: The latest Air Attack has been updated with the new Roc Loc Air system, the same head cage used in the Synthe. Buying it just because you want to look fast? Be warned that the iconic look is also quite popular among commuters.
Specs: Weight: 340g (L) // Safety: In-mold construction, few vents // MSRP: $200 // Sizes: S/M/L // Options: Integrated eye shield ($40)
More info: giro.com
