Thrifty Cycling Helmets

Based on a suggestion from Susan Rodetis
By Alfredo Garcia

You don’t have to wear expensive headgear when you ride your bike. Sure, it would be great to have the Giro “Atmos,” is what 7-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong normally uses. Or the ultra-light Snell certified Specialized “Decibel” helmet. At nearly $200, it is too much. But there are $7 - $40 cycling specific helmets:

An interesting nonprofit online dealer, Helmets R Us, offers Flash Graphics helmets, from Zuhai Safety (China) priced from $6.45 to $7.45. They are Snell certified, which is tougher than CPSC certified, though not as sleek looking. However, you have to make a minimum purchase of $30. You could buy several for friends or family, besides yourself. Website: www.helmetsrus.net.

Despite their ungainly bicycles, Kmart sells Schwinn “Interceptor” helmets for 17. 49. They also offer Bell generic helmets, ranging from $25-$35. Not as glamorous as racing helmets, but CPSC certified. Wal-Mart offers their Ironman & Reflectek brands, made by Kuji Sports (China), at $17.42 each. Both stores have their helmets in store and online. Giro has two $40 helmets: the “Indicator” and the ‘Transfer.” One universal size fits small to large. Some can be found at Champion Bikes, near 5BBC headquarters at the Bike New York office, Hosteling International building.

Bell (which also owns Giro) offers the “Solar,” shown above. It looks like one of their premium models, with a stylish road look with 23 vents. The outer protective shell is bonded to the internal foam portion of helmet, for strength. Comes in one size that fits small to large heads. Unlike the above bulky choices, this helmet is lightweight. CPSC certified. Prices range from $30-$35. You can check out your local bike shop or online (e.g. LL Bean and REI) for this gem.