Choosing a road bike helmet is not limited to protection alone. Comfort, aerodynamics and practicality are also important factors.

The range of helmets designed for road cycling is particularly wide, offering something to suit all expectations and budgets. However, not all bicycle helmets offer the same level of protection. Their sophistication can vary considerably depending on the quality of the materials used, the manufacturing process and the attention paid to practical aspects.materials used, the manufacturing process and the attention paid to practical aspects. Bicycle helmets no longer just protect the cyclist: they must also be comfortable and suitable for the type of use.be comfortable and suitable for the type of cycling.

Road bike helmets: choosing the right size

The inner foam padding of the bicycle helmet, if removable and supplied in
several sizes, will allow for optimal adjustment to the cyclist's head.

The first criterion to considerWhen buying a road bike helmet, the first thing to consider is the size! Start by measuring the circumference of the head using a tape measure. Place the tape measure around the head, just above the eyebrows and at the back of the head.a tape measure. Place the tape 2 cm (or two fingers) above the eyebrows and at the back of the head.. Helmets are generally available in two different sizes, with measurements varying depending on the manufacturer: 51-55 cm, 54-58 cm, 58-62 cm, 48-58 cm, etc. Please note that these sizes are provided for information purposes only and do not take into account individual differences in head shape.lt;br /> A bicycle helmet mainly rests on the skull, temples and forehead: if this helmet is supplied with removable foam pads of different sizes, it willmore easily to the physical characteristics of the cyclist, which is also an advantage if you are between sizes. A bicycle helmet that is the right size should not exert excessive pressure on these points. Make sure that the foam padding on the forehead and temples is perfectly positioned: it absorbs and helps to evaporate perspiration, preventing it fromit from falling into the eyes, for example.

EN 1078 standard and date of manufacture.

The helmet must not move when the head is moved, without being restrictive, particularly at the chin strap, which must not be tight around the throat (to avoid friction and irritation). The side straps should cross just below the ears. Please note that the chin strap must be long enough to allow for the use of a helmet liner or cap. In summer, don't forget to make sure that the helmet can be worn with sunglasses!, don't forget to make sure that the helmet allows you to wear sunglasses!

Road bike helmet: protection

Bicycle helmet cover: here is an Ekoi model, ideal for winter and wet weather.

Regardless of the price of a bicycle helmet, it must comply with European standard EN 1078. This is the only standard on the French and European markets that guarantees protection. Don't hesitate to choose a low-cost helmet for £30 ifit mentions this standard on a label inside!

To ensure optimal protection, road bike helmets must cover the forehead to the back of the head.the back of the head. However, almost all current helmets have a structure that extends tothe back of the neck to protect the spine. Bicycle helmets may also incorporate an internal structure made of polycarbonate, titanium or carbon, as in the Mavic Cosmic Ultimate II. This design prevents the helmet from breaking into several pieces in the event of a violent impact, thus preserving its integrity. Another advantage of this solution is that it allows for larger vents without compromising the rigidity of the helmet. An important detail: the presence of reflective elements is a real plus for safety.reflective elements is a real plus for safety.

When to replace a helmet v&élo

The internal structure of the most advanced helmets allows for greater ventilation without compromising rigidity.

Next to the CE EN 1078 standard, you should find the date of manufacture of the helmet. It is recommended that you replace your bicycle helmet every five years. For regular users, the lifespan will be reduced to two years. The date of manufacture is mainly provided for information purposes., the lifespan will be reduced to two years. The date of manufacture is mainly for information purposes, as it is through use that the helmet will become damaged and lose its protective properties. It will lose its properties.The inner foam padding can become crushed, reducing the helmet's ability to protect the head. The inner foam padding may become crushed, reducing the helmet's fit, as may the chin strap, the chin guard and their attachment points, which may stretch and fray.But it is especially after a violent impact that a road bike helmet should be replaced, even if it does not show any visible damage, as the internal structure may be damaged without this being visible. If the latter appear on the helmet, it must be replaced immediately., as the internal structure may be damaged without this being visible. If the latter appear on the helmet, it must obviously be replaced immediately.

Ventilation of road bike helmets

The side strap adjustment systems(on the left) are much more practical than sliding buckles.

Road helmetsélo road helmets must meet strict ventilation requirements. During prolonged exertion, cyclists must avoid overheating! The ventilation capacity of a helmet is determined by the number of vents it has. The Giro Atmos 2 helmet has 26 vents. However, you must ensure that the helmet fits properly. the Giro Atmos 2 has 26 vents. However, it is important to ensure that the helmet fits the cyclist properly. If the inner foam padding is crushed due to a poor fit, ventilation will not be optimal as the air flow will be restricted. A very versatile, perfectly ventilated and lightweight helmet is the Poc Octal cycling helmet, which we have already tested here.

The aerodynamics have been optimised.
As seen above, the adoption of a rigid internal structure allows for larger vents while maintaining the rigidity of the helmet. However, we have seenthere has been a strong trend towards aerodynamic helmets, such as the Casco SpeedAiro and the Giro Air Attack. These helmets are unique in that they have minimal or no vents in order to optimise their aerodynamics, which compromises their ventilation.of having minimal or no ventilation to optimise their aerodynamics, which reduces their versatility. An integrated visor is often fitted to these models. With the Infinity, Kask aims to square the circle with a system ofOn these aerodynamic helmets, the airflow is channelled to ventilate the head properly up to a certain speed. For mountain biking, you can forget about this type of helmet.

Cycling helmet: weight

The, detailed here by Helmet, allows for considerable weight savings.

Another important point is the weight of road bike helmets. Depending on their level of sophistication, this ranges from 300 g to 170 g, like the Assos Jingo. Obviously, this value directly influences the price of helmets and varies according to the quality of the materials used, the level of sophistication of their design and the length of time taken to develop them.br />
Among the various ways of reducing weight, one of the most common is in-mould technology. This involves moulding the outer shell onto the inner layer of polystyrene, creating a much more rigid and lighter structure. The internal structure absorbs the energy from an impact, while the outer shell maintains the helmet's strength.

Bicycle helmet prices: the details that make the difference

Kask Mojito: dial adjustment,, leather chin strap... Sophisticated features that make it a best-seller.

Prices for bicycle helmets range from £30 to over £250. AThis difference is justified by a more or less refined design that makes all the difference in terms of comfort and ergonomics. Among these details are removable and washable inner foam pads. Those made of Coolmax fabric with antibacterial properties, as on the Kask Mojito, preventprevent unpleasant odours and itching. There are also gel inserts instead of foam, sometimes with variable density, which ensure optimal support. In addition, a leather chin strap provides extra comfort by reducing friction. The option of adding a mosquito net may also be appreciated..

In terms of ergonomics, most modern road bike helmets have adoptedan occipital adjustment dial, a feature found even on the most affordable models. However, it is possible to go even further, such as with Kask's Up & Down occipital adjustment system, which ensures optimal support at the back of the neck. In terms of practicality, you will appreciate awhich ensures optimal support at the back of the neck. In terms of practical features, you will appreciate a system for adjusting the side strapswith a locking system instead of sliding straps.

Wearing a bicycle helmet: raising awareness

The Kask Infinty, an aerodynamic time trial helmet with closed air vents.

Wearing a helmet has been mandatory for children under 12 since 22 March 2017. Whether the child is riding a bike or a passenger, this safety device is mandatory.In the event of non-compliance, the accompanying adult risks a class 4 fine of £90. Apart from this obligation, it is important to note that your child's safety is at stake. Injuries to young children are much more serious than for adults or teenagers. The statistics are striking, with a risk of serious injury for a 6-year-old child not wearing a helmet travelling at more than 10 km/h. The figure speaks for itself: a 98% risk of losing consciousness. This figure drops to 0.1% if the child is wearing a helmet.child is wearing a helmet.

Cycling is constantly growing in popularity and it is estimated that there are more than 5.5 millionoccasional or regular users under the age of 12. It goes without saying that adults must set an exampleexample by wearing a helmet themselves, regardless of where they are travelling. In some countries, such as Finland, wearing a helmet is compulsory for everyone.

A children's bicycle helmet has been mandatory since 22/03/2017. When it's attractive, it's easier to wear.|>
This measure has been widely adopted by European Union member states, with Malta, for example, making helmets compulsory for children up to the age of 10. France, Austria and Latvia have set the mandatory age at 12. The age is 15 in Slovakia, Slovenia and Sweden. It is compulsory until the age of 16 in Spain, Croatia and Estonia. Finally, it is compulsory until the age of 18 in the Czech Republic and Lithuania. Beyond the mandatory age, we strongly advise you to wear your helmet whenever you ride. As with travelling by car, accidents often happen on familiar routes, out of habit and due to a lack of vigilance.accidents often happen on familiar routes, due to habit and lack of vigilance. It should not be forgotten that riding in urban areas is not without risk. Sharing the road is not yet second nature in our country. However, it should be noted that urban planning is developing in favour of cycling, shared road sections often pose problems. Whatever the case, our position on wearing helmets is that it should bebe second nature to wear one whenever you are out and about. A good tip to avoid forgetting it is to leave it on your bike.