My Giro helmet saved me from very serious injury. It did what it was designed to do. When I crashed I was travelling at 35 kph approx. When examined after my crash it had multiple fractures. This helmet most definitely had kept me out of a casket or worse a wheelchair.
The same happened to me two days ago - my mid range Giro helmet saved me from death or the like. I immediately purchased the top of the line Giro helmet as a replacement: firstly, because I’d never want to wish I’d spent more on a helmet; secondly to say thank you to the company who saved me.
I also have a Giro story. I have a Giro MIPS ski helmet. Fell on my head while skiing at 60 mph (Strava was on). I was very mildly concussed. All symptoms disappeared after 15 minutes. Always wear a helmet!
I'll be honest, this video makes me feel like the companies are just playing us. This pretty much made me want to just buy cheap helmets from now on, but I'm too pretentious about my cycling to be seen in anything but a top of the line helmet, and that's kind of embarrassing.
Hi Mikey. If you consider that the pro helmet has the MIPS system but remains with the same weight and still complies with safety regulations, this is actually impressive. Also, GCN just published that Dura Ace is the same as Ultegra according to Shimano but 3 times more expensive and you save something like 60g (no taking wheels in count). Some people just want the best disregarding the price.
I agree. Maybe the effort here goes both ways a bit hard. The cheap is too cheap and the other one is too expensive. But you always get people for who 10$ makes the difference and others where 100$ is nothing. Hard to be sure but I agree with you personally.
Mikey Brenndorfer I agree. The whole cycling industry is over inflated price wise. It’s obscene. The problem is people continue to pay top dollar to have that “up to date cool fresh” kit which creates demand and inches prices sky ward.
But that´s ok Trevor. The video is actually showing an example that you don´t have to pay a fortune to have descent stuff. Let the rich pay the company so they can invest in R&D ;)
Of all the cycling things you can choose to spend extra on, the helmet is definitely the most worthwhile upgrade. It's not about saving grams, it's about having something as comfortable as possible so you don't mind wearing it. MIPs is also expensive on its own, but it could realistically make the difference between being mentally handicapped or not after a crash. $200 extra sounds like a lot but when you consider you're gonna be spending at least 1000 hours wearing it then it doesn't sting so bad I got my Giro Synthe for $80 on eBay so I might be a little bias. I wear it every day and if it got stolen I'd buy it again
Think this is a phenomenal series idea. Couple of ideas for future comparisons: - Premium vs budget shorts - Premium vs budget sunglasses - Premium vs budget socks - Premium vs budget components/groupsets - Premium vs budget hydration mixes
The budget Giro is a good looking helmet. In many other brands I probably wouldn't wear their budget versions due to looks, ventilation, weight or padding/fit. I'm sure the Synthe has better ventilation due to the thinner bridges requiring less material under them.
Nice review and very applicable to me having to buy 2 helmets in 2 weeks. Fortunately, last week I finally dumped the old (probably 15 years + ) department store helmet my wife bought me and replaced it with a new Giro Foray MIPS helmet . Last Sunday, on my new helmets maiden ride, I had the worst cycling accident of my life, having come round a slight corner on a cycle path, following my 2 mates, to be suddenly confronted with unexpected pedestrian traffic. A handful of front brake on my relatively new Bianchi and the next ten minutes of what happened are fairly sketchy. Don't recall the accident at all, but know from the impact marks on the right side of my helmet and the pain in my right shoulder as to how I must have landed. Off to hospital, CT scan of head and x-ray of right shoulder....... all clear. No broken bones and most importantly no brain bleeding. Apparently after the accident, I got up and got back on my bike and rode on for another 10 mins, telling my mates I was fine, before they realized I wasn't and called an ambulance (don't remember any of this). LUCKY........I was wearing a new, modern, safety packed helmet. I can't say definitely that the MIPS system helped, but I think I got out of it fairly well for catapulting myself onto a cement path, head (and shoulder) first at 30kph. I'll be making sure the next helmet I buy has the MIPS system.... just to be sure.
A helmet should be replaced after 5 years, unless it's sustained a significant impact, like from a crash. You rolled the dice with a 15-yr-old one. The styrofoam deteriorates from heat/cold fluctuations under general use. BTW, there are no "accidents;" there are always causal factors to collisions/crashes and other mishaps, like human error, mechanical failure, weather and/or road conditions. Were you riding on a dedicated bicycle path, or was it a _multi-use_ path (MUP) intended for cyclists, pedestrians and other modes of non-motorized transportation? On either, there are typically speed limits, which is 20k, where I live in a large Canadian city, unless it's a bike lane or cycle track (physically protected/separated bike path) on roads, where it's the same as for motorized vehicles ("cagers") at 20-30kph.
Glad to hear you came out of that crash in one piece! Sounds super sketchy. But yeah, personally I'm not sure if the whole MIPS thing is worth the added cost. However, both my helmets have it and I intend to retain that feature down the road just in case. Anyway, here's to having fun _and_ being safe!
One difference not noted in the video between the Synthe and the budget is that the Synthe has a plastic frame (which is part of the adjustable ring around your head) that holds the helmet off your head by a few millimeters. Giro claims this lets air circulate against your scalp for better cooling. The cheaper helmet sits directly on your head.
Simple. Don't ever use entry level tires. Even if you're running a second hand bike with Shimano Claris (nothing wrong with that, just meaning your budget isn't very high) you shouldn't skimp on tires. They offer better grip, durability, puncture protection and less rolling resistance. What kind of tires you want is a different question. There are very expensive tires with excellent rolling resistance and poor puncture protection and vice versa. The combinations are almost endless.
I moved to schwalbe from some cheap Taiwanese tyres. The puncture protection and the durability of side walls of schwalbe is great! I'll stick to schwalbe all my life...
DarkPa1adin true, I have the marathon hs 420 touring tires. Never an issue. I prefer touring bike made for actual riding than delicate race bikes that always puncture and need maintenance. I use it as a daily tool of life and not just a circle jerk hobby where u ride for nothing and pretend to be a team rider.
This helmet's upgrades are proper upgrades. The MIPS, sunglasses holder, and comfort aren't marginal gains. You don't get this helmet because it is slightly lighter and more aero; it's the comfort and features that make it worth it. On a budget just go for used, I got my Synthe on eBay for $80. There's way more expensive helmets than the Synthe
@J.W. Stillwater MIPS isn't proven to do anything and costs a load just for a plastic internal lining. Sunglasses holders can be found on many low end helmets and sometimes high end helmets don't even have them. My mojito is a mess trying to get glasses to actually stick in the ports. Comfort is a matter of getting a helmet that fits your head, trail and error. Almost nothing to do with price point and everything to do with finding the right one, much like saddles. The only justification I can use without lying to myself is that high end helmets look so much better.
MIPS, in certain types of impact, reduces the rotational energy that cause some types of brain injury. The seat belt in your car wont be useful for many types of small bumps and scrapes, but will be in rare occasions when you have high speed collisions. Same with MIPS, it might save you from brain haemorrhage or even straining ligaments in your neck. I have a MIPS helmet for that reason.
Yeah I know that's what MIPS say MIPS does. I'm just concerned that there isn't independant research to support what they claim. If we believed all the shit bike companies say we'd have 20 different companies with the "worlds stiffest bike".
. . . . so you'll know that inertial forces on the brain exacerbate injury when combined with rotational forces, for example when you land awkwardly on the corner of a helmet - yep the helmet itself is the offender, of all ironies - any reduction of those forces will reduce the extent of injury.
The fly net is a real thing, which ought to be implemented on more designs. I did think of that particular feature lacking, as I was getting a wasp out of my helmet. It was a few very tense seconds, I promise.
I've bought both ends of the Giro/Bell range and can confirm the difference is really marginal. I've also crashed in both and they protected the noggin equally well (breaking into numerous chunks in both cases). I usually buy the more expensive for vanity and the softer strap material.
I just ordered Giro's Agilis MIPS helmet. My previous helmet was one of Giro's flagship models. Honestly, unless there are some special features that I can't live without, I just can't see myself spending $300 on a helmet that doesn't offer $200 "more" of protection than a mid-grade $100 helmet. Getting it for 75 bucks was especially sweet too, especially when for $225 more, all I'd get would be an X% more movable MIPS system with only a 6 gram weight difference and I'd have to give up venting. The Agilis has 32 vents compared to the Aether's 21. I think $100 +/- is a good compromise where you get a lot of features (comfort, weight, ventilation, safety, etc...). On top of that, they look like twins.
MIPS for $70 was my main reason and a unexpected benefit is that since most people buy basic, it really stands out in the crowd. I got the high visibility yellow green and cut small chunks and strips of 3M reflective tape for the back and front so it reflects headlights from any angle.
Please continue the reviews of products. However, I would suggest going beyond the "subjective" and add the "objective" test data when available. In the case of helmets, they are required to have extensive testing and public results. That side-by-side product comparison would allow us to determine the reality of the cost / benefit differences.
I used a $120-150 helmet for years. Then when I started riding 60-80 miles a week I decided to try a more expensive helmet. I was amazed. I have the Giro Synth and it feels amazing for ONE reason only - I don’t feel it on my head. It doesn’t move. It doesn’t feel like I’m wearing a helmet. THATS THE DIFFERENCE. That’s what you pay for. For longer rides it makes a huge difference. If you’re riding 5-20 miles it doesn’t really matter.
I used a cheaper helmet and realized the lack of vents meant that it was more aero. Yes, the cheaper helmets are sometimes faster than more ventilated helmets.
If 120-150 is what you consider entry level, we have no business discussing anything, you Sir are a dumb consumer and will justify splashing money on shit wrapped in an attractive packaging.
Love the video - Premium brands will always market their products in such a way as to make you think you're getting more for the higher priced model. In cycling, along with sports like golf, where specialist equipment is used, companies have to convince you that the subtle difference between this year's and last year's product is really worth all the expense. In reality - it's mainly just vanity. People want the latest equipment from the best (perceived) brands because they are vain. The fashion industry is built on this very foundation. PS I'd love to see impartial comparisons of a garmin head unit v a cheap Chinese unit as sold by Amazon (with "similar" functionality).
You didn't mention that both helmets offer the same impact protection. Essentially the 5 times price premium is styling and comfort. If they had chosen the Giro Bishop, the weight difference would be larger: 250gm Vs 350gm. Also, that netting on the front vents is very useful if you live in an area with lots of bugs and nature. This was a useful video. Thanks guys!
Love the idea of budget vs. high-end, and very interested in this one as I need a new helmet. Despite the lack of hard science on the benefits of the MIPS I'm happy to pay a little more for a feature that may save my brain. Looking forward to more comparison videos.
I wear a Cannondale intake w/MIPS (witch I don't understand how it works or makes it safe concidering its just a thin strip of plastic that hovers off the helmet it's self.) But I do like it.
For me, cheapest as possible as long as it has proper certification and looks good. Helmets are basically disposables, once you crash and hit the helmet, it's done. It just doesn't make sense buying more expensive ones except if they are considerably safer, or maybe if there is quite significant aero advantage, weight, or comfort. Otherwise i'd rather spend on better wheels or something.
Sunglasses: dhb UltraLite versus maybe an Oakley Radar EV or a POC DO Blade Jerseys: Cheap regular fit versus expensive aero fit (maybe even on the test-track with dr. Hutch?) Shoes: Entry level plastic versus full carbon, but maybe also SPD vs Look or SPD-SL
Out of experience cycling in the English summer I’d pay extra for the fly netting Also adding a visor for the winter months makes it an all season helmet
Great vid chaps! Always enjoy this sort of thing. - Must admit I’d like to see a ‘budget vs premium wheelset’ vid. Perhaps not for everyone though.. How about budget vs premium clipless pedals?
Maybe next time take the tags and theft device off the helmet before weighing them? Just an objective thought. Also compare apples to apples, MIPS vs. MIPS - MIPS adds 20-30 grams to the overall weight of the helmet...
I have the budget Giro. No complaints, and looks wise don’t see a lot of visual difference from the Synthe. Not sure if my opinion is affected that I am perfectly comfortable riding my 30 year old Panasonic with people who have new bikes.
The MIPS adds weight. Add that to the non MIPS and the difference is bigger. For Ultracycling it makes huge difference as it helps prevent Shermers neck ...
Started using a $20 Amazon helmet just to check it out. It had the mold pattern of a basketball. But I repadded it and now it fits great. Bicycle helmet technology is styrofoam ice bucket with straps. The stuff cost pennies to make but following the fashion Industry higher retail cost is what makes a product more desirable. Get a helmet that fit your head. If it fits and will stay on your head in an accident you are set. The protection is the same
Totally agree with you on this topic. Sometime a lower end helmet providing not far away performance with top top helmet, as long as they all got the safety certificate
I'd love to see a comparison between "budget" carbon wheels (which are still outrageously expensive ~1,000 US dollars) and the top of the line ENVE's or Zipp's that are 3x more!
@@gk4y4 nut if you take a look at both helmets, one having a better ratchet system, mips and slightly better epa-foam or liners. is it really worth 4x the money? is giros 50 buck helmet even worth 50, since other brands make pretty much the same thing for less cost. the cheap giro didnt look like anything more than decathlons medium to high priced helmets
Unless a helmet can instantly teleport me to safety prior to accident impact, I'm not paying over $100 for it. Funny this video was uploaded recently. I just picked up my new Giro Foray helmet last weekend.
I own a Foray as well and have used it for over a year. This video gives me no reason to upgrade. Pretty much all the features on the Synthe, like mips, are also on the Foray.
Nice review. One concern for me though, since Isode is universal and fits up to 61 cm, wouldn’t it look bulky or mushroomy on smaller heads? I’m 54.5 cm, and Isode is one option for me since there’s no small Giro Foray or Bell Formula available here. Medium runs 55-59 and may not fit me snug.
I have an Isode and it's a weird fit for my head to be honest. It's not a bad looking one from the sides but front view shoes mushroom due to the big size accomodation.
I've got the Giro AirAttack and it's crazy comfortable! I bought it mainly for the attachable visor but the extra comfort alone makes it worth the money.
I've got a sexy Canadian flag KASK helmet and a few Giro's, I ride a mid level Giro mostly though and absolutely love it. Very comfy helmets (and I'm sure it'll save my noggin should I ever have to test it)
I suspect the answer to most budget vs top end comparisons will be “the budget stuff is really good and excellent value, but the expensive stuff just feels a little nicer”... what would be really interesting is to have these comparisons judged by a novice who doesn’t know Tiagra from Dura Ace, or dhb from Assos. (Good luck finding one though.) Throw them in the kit or on a bike with different options, don’t explain which is which, and see if they can tell any difference.
I recently came off my bike at speed & my head along with the rest of my body was hurled into a cattle grid af full force. My Giro MIPS helmet saved my life without a shadow of a doubt. If I had not been wearing my helmet the right side & temple region of my head would have impacted into the cattle grid. I was badly bruised around my ribs, arms & legs. They are now healed. Please guys, Always wear a MIPS helmet.
Please do entry level bike versus top-end bike or mid-range bike I would love to see the difference between the top end of the specialized allez line versus the specialized tarmac
Alex Carrick. I would like to know what the difference is in a back-to-back comparison test not reading a stat sheet on what the bikes are supposedly like
I'm not reading a stat sheet. My opinion is based on what people who ride the bike say. Just watched a bunch of Red Hook and crit racing and experience some myself. The science will tell you that the bikes have a 2 watt difference or some shit. The important information is the material of the frame, because for me at least, whether a frame is gonna cost 1k for carbon repairs or a few hundred dollars for alloy repairs is more important than single digit watts.
There's no point in doing these tests if you'd ask me. Those differences are really really easy to figure out. Compare the reviews for the frame from their reviews, and the equipment from reviews from groupsets and wheels for example. All bikes have different levels of kit so it's really easy to see where the money goes. The bigger questions are things like comparing different groupsets (Sora vs. 105 or Ultegra vs. Dura-Ace for instance) or questioning wether you want deep section wheels or not.
I have the Isode MIPS. Got it for $55. It offers the same protection as a helmet costing $200+ more while only being slightly larger in profile. It's a great helmet.
Helmets should be replaced after 5 years, regardless of amount of use. There should be a sticker inside with the manufacturing date. The styrofoam lining deteriorates due to age and fluctuations of heat and cold. Don't risk your brain through a catastrophic head injury, for the sake saving a few quid/bucks, etc.
I use giro reverb urban helmet as an aero helmet, it has minimal vents a dome shape similar to their top of line aero helmets and are light. I have a few of em and they cost £40 ish quid the best thing is they have a z replica one!!
My isode is different. They make it differently in the U.S the U.S one doesn’t have the net in the vent holes and the chinstraps are the normal ones found on the synthe
You know I understand that bikes are a lot cheaper than cars for instance but 500% more expensive for things that are just personal preference is rediculous. I mean these aren't the only 2 helmets in the world so you should be able to find the features you like in a budget helmet.
I did have a synth and would like one again but £250 for a helmet is prohibitively expensive. There is clearly no improvement that warrants the vast increase in price. What you get does not justify the price and neither does the cost to manufacture.
Really helpful video. Some things are fashion, some things are performance gains that get less as you pay more but still are worth it to some, helmets are something else: one’s life might depend upon it. This accords with other tests I have seen: the cheaper helmet will do a great job as a helmet should. It’s going to be true with the brands, but beware the ‘too cheap’ knock-offs. No place to park sunglasses and 3G heavier? That’s fine, I’ll keep the £200 change!
I own a $320 helmet and recently purchased a ninety dollar helmet. Guess what, the less expensive one is just as light, fit better, has the new MIPS technology, and looks the same as the more expensive one. Point is why pay the premium.
I have a large noggin, so I can only choose based on the small number of helmets that fit, and they've turned out to be around the USD $60 price mark, and both have been giro helmets specifically made for big heads-up first the Atlas, and now the Bishop. I've tried dozens, and my damn head only allows these.
This makes me not want to buy another Giro helmet. The two I have are not my favorite to wear. They were not cheap, which just makes me think I overpaid. LOL
I had a synthe two yeara ago and I remember it had a retention system that could be adjusted up and down without effort, now I have a synthe mips and the retention system is not the one I remember, it feels weaker and can't be adjusted up and down by simply pulling it, I don't get how the one with mips that is far more expensive has now a worse retention system.
Helmets are individual. I always had a laser and spent the cash and then I discovered a £15 (it was half price, usually 30) model from planet x which was comfier and didn't keep breaking at the straps unlike the laser). Then they discontinued it :'(
The problem with comparing free products (they were free, weren't they?) is you have to walk a fine line with your negative comments. You've done that.......great video.
Having returned to cycling after a 40 year hiatus I was staggered by the pricing of some items. Personally, I’m gullible enough to pay the odd premium price every now and then but rather than comparisons like this one I’d just like companies to explain WHY top of the range helmets, bib tights, waterproofs etc. are the price that they are. Frankly I find them implausible so won’t buy ‘em, but might if I could see prices justified.
Yeah great Ollie, I have the 49£, fits awesome but for £200 more is cooler, it depends with the riders living, if your rich why not for the expensive,, it all ends on our safety. Hope to see you visit the giro factory.
Unless you're sponsored by Giro I see no reason to get the more expensive one. I wouldn't be surprised if a pro used the cheaper one and had no difference in their time. I feel like after $100 there are quickly diminishing returns in helmets.
I bought a Schwinn Helmet at target on clearance for $12 funny it looks just like that .Gyro except it as a visor which I love for riding at night when someones lights in my eyes I just set my head down and it immediately blocks it it also looks just like your Gyro.I’ll bet if you dropped a 12 pound shotput on either of them the results would be the same
I really liked your honesty in this video. Giro makes some great helmets and you don’t have to break the bank to pay for them. At the same time, if you like the more expensive versions, by all means get it. I would love to see a comparison of top of the line kit vs. entry level kit (jersey and shorts). Also a good comparison of shimano 105 vs Ultegra vs Dura Ace. Keep up the great work.
To make it worse, it's not an either-or world out there, even if all you are looking at Giro, you can gat an Agilis MIPS helmet for $90USD that seems to include a lot of the features of the Synthe.
The cheaper helmet is using technology that people paid 3x the price for back in the 90's. Most people will never be as fast as the pro's using lesser helmets of years past. That's why the helmet does not matter so long as it's sufficiently safe.
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My Giro helmet saved me from very serious injury. It did what it was designed to do. When I crashed I was travelling at 35 kph approx. When examined after my crash it had multiple fractures. This helmet most definitely had kept me out of a casket or worse a wheelchair.
The same happened to me two days ago - my mid range Giro helmet saved me from death or the like. I immediately purchased the top of the line Giro helmet as a replacement: firstly, because I’d never want to wish I’d spent more on a helmet; secondly to say thank you to the company who saved me.
I also have a Giro story. I have a Giro MIPS ski helmet. Fell on my head while skiing at 60 mph (Strava was on). I was very mildly concussed. All symptoms disappeared after 15 minutes.
Always wear a helmet!
I'll be honest, this video makes me feel like the companies are just playing us. This pretty much made me want to just buy cheap helmets from now on, but I'm too pretentious about my cycling to be seen in anything but a top of the line helmet, and that's kind of embarrassing.
Hi Mikey. If you consider that the pro helmet has the MIPS system but remains with the same weight and still complies with safety regulations, this is actually impressive. Also, GCN just published that Dura Ace is the same as Ultegra according to Shimano but 3 times more expensive and you save something like 60g (no taking wheels in count). Some people just want the best disregarding the price.
I agree. Maybe the effort here goes both ways a bit hard. The cheap is too cheap and the other one is too expensive. But you always get people for who 10$ makes the difference and others where 100$ is nothing. Hard to be sure but I agree with you personally.
Mikey Brenndorfer I agree. The whole cycling industry is over inflated price wise. It’s obscene. The problem is people continue to pay top dollar to have that “up to date cool fresh” kit which creates demand and inches prices sky ward.
But that´s ok Trevor. The video is actually showing an example that you don´t have to pay a fortune to have descent stuff. Let the rich pay the company so they can invest in R&D ;)
Of all the cycling things you can choose to spend extra on, the helmet is definitely the most worthwhile upgrade. It's not about saving grams, it's about having something as comfortable as possible so you don't mind wearing it. MIPs is also expensive on its own, but it could realistically make the difference between being mentally handicapped or not after a crash. $200 extra sounds like a lot but when you consider you're gonna be spending at least 1000 hours wearing it then it doesn't sting so bad
I got my Giro Synthe for $80 on eBay so I might be a little bias. I wear it every day and if it got stolen I'd buy it again
Budget vs premium water next
Think this is a phenomenal series idea. Couple of ideas for future comparisons:
- Premium vs budget shorts
- Premium vs budget sunglasses
- Premium vs budget socks
- Premium vs budget components/groupsets
- Premium vs budget hydration mixes
premium vs budget profession racer
@@longlee1100 hahaha
Also premium vs budget chain lube too :3
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Would be nice all of these comparisons.
What really matters: ‘is there any difference in impact performance’? Crashtest, press-test etc..
Rapha chamois cream "with a fragrance inspired by the flora around Mont Ventoux" vs. vaseline
Jan Falk Or Drapolene (basically, nappy cream). It works well.
Or sex lube. The silicone stuff is great.
The budget Giro is a good looking helmet. In many other brands I probably wouldn't wear their budget versions due to looks, ventilation, weight or padding/fit. I'm sure the Synthe has better ventilation due to the thinner bridges requiring less material under them.
Nice review and very applicable to me having to buy 2 helmets in 2 weeks. Fortunately, last week I finally dumped the old (probably 15 years + ) department store helmet my wife bought me and replaced it with a new Giro Foray MIPS helmet . Last Sunday, on my new helmets maiden ride, I had the worst cycling accident of my life, having come round a slight corner on a cycle path, following my 2 mates, to be suddenly confronted with unexpected pedestrian traffic. A handful of front brake on my relatively new Bianchi and the next ten minutes of what happened are fairly sketchy. Don't recall the accident at all, but know from the impact marks on the right side of my helmet and the pain in my right shoulder as to how I must have landed. Off to hospital, CT scan of head and x-ray of right shoulder....... all clear. No broken bones and most importantly no brain bleeding. Apparently after the accident, I got up and got back on my bike and rode on for another 10 mins, telling my mates I was fine, before they realized I wasn't and called an ambulance (don't remember any of this). LUCKY........I was wearing a new, modern, safety packed helmet. I can't say definitely that the MIPS system helped, but I think I got out of it fairly well for catapulting myself onto a cement path, head (and shoulder) first at 30kph. I'll be making sure the next helmet I buy has the MIPS system.... just to be sure.
A helmet should be replaced after 5 years, unless it's sustained a significant impact, like from a crash. You rolled the dice with a 15-yr-old one. The styrofoam deteriorates from heat/cold fluctuations under general use. BTW, there are no "accidents;" there are always causal factors to collisions/crashes and other mishaps, like human error, mechanical failure, weather and/or road conditions.
Were you riding on a dedicated bicycle path, or was it a _multi-use_ path (MUP) intended for cyclists, pedestrians and other modes of non-motorized transportation? On either, there are typically speed limits, which is 20k, where I live in a large Canadian city, unless it's a bike lane or cycle track (physically protected/separated bike path) on roads, where it's the same as for motorized vehicles ("cagers") at 20-30kph.
Glad to hear you came out of that crash in one piece! Sounds super sketchy.
But yeah, personally I'm not sure if the whole MIPS thing is worth the added cost. However, both my helmets have it and I intend to retain that feature down the road just in case.
Anyway, here's to having fun _and_ being safe!
With helmets it would be good if you had some laboratory impact test data. This might highlight more the differences in design and hence price.
Indeed 👍
One difference not noted in the video between the Synthe and the budget is that the Synthe has a plastic frame (which is part of the adjustable ring around your head) that holds the helmet off your head by a few millimeters. Giro claims this lets air circulate against your scalp for better cooling. The cheaper helmet sits directly on your head.
How about entry level tires vs. competition tires? Advantages and disadvantages?
Simple. Don't ever use entry level tires. Even if you're running a second hand bike with Shimano Claris (nothing wrong with that, just meaning your budget isn't very high) you shouldn't skimp on tires. They offer better grip, durability, puncture protection and less rolling resistance.
What kind of tires you want is a different question. There are very expensive tires with excellent rolling resistance and poor puncture protection and vice versa. The combinations are almost endless.
I moved to schwalbe from some cheap Taiwanese tyres. The puncture protection and the durability of side walls of schwalbe is great! I'll stick to schwalbe all my life...
I have Kendra Journey's KS+ that are for e-bikes 50kph rated. $35 Each but it's great.
DarkPa1adin true, I have the marathon hs 420 touring tires. Never an issue. I prefer touring bike made for actual riding than delicate race bikes that always puncture and need maintenance. I use it as a daily tool of life and not just a circle jerk hobby where u ride for nothing and pretend to be a team rider.
Save the £200 and put it towards a power meter 👌🏻 (invest in proper gains not marginal ones)
This helmet's upgrades are proper upgrades. The MIPS, sunglasses holder, and comfort aren't marginal gains. You don't get this helmet because it is slightly lighter and more aero; it's the comfort and features that make it worth it. On a budget just go for used, I got my Synthe on eBay for $80. There's way more expensive helmets than the Synthe
@J.W. Stillwater MIPS isn't proven to do anything and costs a load just for a plastic internal lining. Sunglasses holders can be found on many low end helmets and sometimes high end helmets don't even have them. My mojito is a mess trying to get glasses to actually stick in the ports. Comfort is a matter of getting a helmet that fits your head, trail and error. Almost nothing to do with price point and everything to do with finding the right one, much like saddles. The only justification I can use without lying to myself is that high end helmets look so much better.
MIPS, in certain types of impact, reduces the rotational energy that cause some types of brain injury. The seat belt in your car wont be useful for many types of small bumps and scrapes, but will be in rare occasions when you have high speed collisions. Same with MIPS, it might save you from brain haemorrhage or even straining ligaments in your neck. I have a MIPS helmet for that reason.
Yeah I know that's what MIPS say MIPS does. I'm just concerned that there isn't independant research to support what they claim. If we believed all the shit bike companies say we'd have 20 different companies with the "worlds stiffest bike".
. . . . so you'll know that inertial forces on the brain exacerbate injury when combined with rotational forces, for example when you land awkwardly on the corner of a helmet - yep the helmet itself is the offender, of all ironies - any reduction of those forces will reduce the extent of injury.
The fly net is a real thing, which ought to be implemented on more designs. I did think of that particular feature lacking, as I was getting a wasp out of my helmet. It was a few very tense seconds, I promise.
This is why I wear a thin, venting cycling cap underneath. Too often a bee gets into my helmet and stuck in my hair 😖
The premium top level helmet helps you push down on your pedals. I can confirm that the Cheap one that I also wear does not push down on my pedals.
I've bought both ends of the Giro/Bell range and can confirm the difference is really marginal. I've also crashed in both and they protected the noggin equally well (breaking into numerous chunks in both cases). I usually buy the more expensive for vanity and the softer strap material.
mips does the job it promises, had the non pleasure of testing the system with this helmet
I have an Isode with MIPS and it was around the same price. Get MIPS, it’s more likely to save your head
I just ordered Giro's Agilis MIPS helmet. My previous helmet was one of Giro's flagship models. Honestly, unless there are some special features that I can't live without, I just can't see myself spending $300 on a helmet that doesn't offer $200 "more" of protection than a mid-grade $100 helmet. Getting it for 75 bucks was especially sweet too, especially when for $225 more, all I'd get would be an X% more movable MIPS system with only a 6 gram weight difference and I'd have to give up venting.
The Agilis has 32 vents compared to the Aether's 21. I think $100 +/- is a good compromise where you get a lot of features (comfort, weight, ventilation, safety, etc...). On top of that, they look like twins.
MIPS for $70 was my main reason and a unexpected benefit is that since most people buy basic, it really stands out in the crowd. I got the high visibility yellow green and cut small chunks and strips of 3M reflective tape for the back and front so it reflects headlights from any angle.
Please continue the reviews of products. However, I would suggest going beyond the "subjective" and add the "objective" test data when available. In the case of helmets, they are required to have extensive testing and public results. That side-by-side product comparison would allow us to determine the reality of the cost / benefit differences.
I used a $120-150 helmet for years. Then when I started riding 60-80 miles a week I decided to try a more expensive helmet. I was amazed. I have the Giro Synth and it feels amazing for ONE reason only - I don’t feel it on my head. It doesn’t move. It doesn’t feel like I’m wearing a helmet. THATS THE DIFFERENCE. That’s what you pay for. For longer rides it makes a huge difference. If you’re riding 5-20 miles it doesn’t really matter.
I used a cheaper helmet and realized the lack of vents meant that it was more aero. Yes, the cheaper helmets are sometimes faster than more ventilated helmets.
If 120-150 is what you consider entry level, we have no business discussing anything, you Sir are a dumb consumer and will justify splashing money on shit wrapped in an attractive packaging.
Love the video - Premium brands will always market their products in such a way as to make you think you're getting more for the higher priced model. In cycling, along with sports like golf, where specialist equipment is used, companies have to convince you that the subtle difference between this year's and last year's product is really worth all the expense. In reality - it's mainly just vanity. People want the latest equipment from the best (perceived) brands because they are vain. The fashion industry is built on this very foundation. PS I'd love to see impartial comparisons of a garmin head unit v a cheap Chinese unit as sold by Amazon (with "similar" functionality).
A person could think (wrongly) that it's much stronger or the clothes have much better quality material, which is not excessive.
So to answer GCN's question "are cyclists vain?", the answer would depend on which helmet you choose.
budget handlebars vs carbon integrated aero handlebars and stem
You didn't mention that both helmets offer the same impact protection. Essentially the 5 times price premium is styling and comfort.
If they had chosen the Giro Bishop, the weight difference would be larger: 250gm Vs 350gm.
Also, that netting on the front vents is very useful if you live in an area with lots of bugs and nature.
This was a useful video. Thanks guys!
I have had a bee get caught inside my helmet. There was extra suffering that day.
Holy shit lmao 🤣
Maybe you can glue, tape or somehow attach mesh inside your helmet.
Love the idea of budget vs. high-end, and very interested in this one as I need a new helmet. Despite the lack of hard science on the benefits of the MIPS I'm happy to pay a little more for a feature that may save my brain. Looking forward to more comparison videos.
Yes the benefits of the mips system over the base model would have been an ideal addition. Especially the difference at speed!
I wear a Cannondale intake w/MIPS (witch I don't understand how it works or makes it safe concidering its just a thin strip of plastic that hovers off the helmet it's self.) But I do like it.
For me, cheapest as possible as long as it has proper certification and looks good. Helmets are basically disposables, once you crash and hit the helmet, it's done. It just doesn't make sense buying more expensive ones except if they are considerably safer, or maybe if there is quite significant aero advantage, weight, or comfort.
Otherwise i'd rather spend on better wheels or something.
Sunglasses: dhb UltraLite versus maybe an Oakley Radar EV or a POC DO Blade
Jerseys: Cheap regular fit versus expensive aero fit (maybe even on the test-track with dr. Hutch?)
Shoes: Entry level plastic versus full carbon, but maybe also SPD vs Look or SPD-SL
Budget vs premium bar tape
This guy has very good presenting style, he will be a good fit in that GCN RUclips channel
Is this a joke? 😂
@@harrydavey5805 No, I really do mean it 😁
@@mstvir he is/used to be a GCN presenter lol, that's why I asked
Out of experience cycling in the English summer I’d pay extra for the fly netting Also adding a visor for the winter months makes it an all season helmet
Just got a rapha giro synthe, upgraded from a giro cinder. Love it.
Great vid chaps! Always enjoy this sort of thing. - Must admit I’d like to see a ‘budget vs premium wheelset’ vid. Perhaps not for everyone though.. How about budget vs premium clipless pedals?
Maybe next time take the tags and theft device off the helmet before weighing them? Just an objective thought. Also compare apples to apples, MIPS vs. MIPS - MIPS adds 20-30 grams to the overall weight of the helmet...
I have the budget Giro. No complaints, and looks wise don’t see a lot of visual difference from the Synthe. Not sure if my opinion is affected that I am perfectly comfortable riding my 30 year old Panasonic with people who have new bikes.
David Risor: I doff my Rapha cap in your direction. If not for your plebian obstinance, other riders might not recognize my stylish radiance.
The MIPS adds weight. Add that to the non MIPS and the difference is bigger. For Ultracycling it makes huge difference as it helps prevent Shermers neck ...
Not premium vs budget but I'd love to see a noise comparion for various helmets. My old S-works had deafening wind noise.
Started using a $20 Amazon helmet just to check it out. It had the mold pattern of a basketball. But I repadded it and now it fits great. Bicycle helmet technology is styrofoam ice bucket with straps. The stuff cost pennies to make but following the fashion Industry higher retail cost is what makes a product more desirable. Get a helmet that fit your head. If it fits and will stay on your head in an accident you are set. The protection is the same
Get a helmet that's designed for the type of cycling you do.
If you make two small slits in the cheaper helmet's webbing at the right spots, presumably you can also get your glasses in?
Please do a light comparison, since that is an actual technical devise where differences may be more pronounced.
Totally agree with you on this topic. Sometime a lower end helmet providing not far away performance with top top helmet, as long as they all got the safety certificate
I'd love to see a comparison between "budget" carbon wheels (which are still outrageously expensive ~1,000 US dollars) and the top of the line ENVE's or Zipp's that are 3x more!
A budget helmet is just last year's premium helmet in a different box.
no it's not
Well that is wrong
Nope
@@gk4y4 nut if you take a look at both helmets, one having a better ratchet system, mips and slightly better epa-foam or liners. is it really worth 4x the money? is giros 50 buck helmet even worth 50, since other brands make pretty much the same thing for less cost. the cheap giro didnt look like anything more than decathlons medium to high priced helmets
I went with the Giro Agilis with MIPS at about $90. And I'm sticking a couple of feet of 3M reflective tape on the shell.
Thats a very good choise
Premium VS Budget is a great idea. Components, clothes, shoes... lots of interesting possibilities.
What about the materials, are they the same, does the premium one use better more costly ones.
Unless a helmet can instantly teleport me to safety prior to accident impact, I'm not paying over $100 for it. Funny this video was uploaded recently. I just picked up my new Giro Foray helmet last weekend.
I own a Foray as well and have used it for over a year. This video gives me no reason to upgrade. Pretty much all the features on the Synthe, like mips, are also on the Foray.
StuntpilootStef
I'm glad you have one and like it. I haven't used mine yet. And I agree, I see no reason to upgrade to a more expensive helmet.
Nice review. One concern for me though, since Isode is universal and fits up to 61 cm, wouldn’t it look bulky or mushroomy on smaller heads? I’m 54.5 cm, and Isode is one option for me since there’s no small Giro Foray or Bell Formula available here. Medium runs 55-59 and may not fit me snug.
I have an Isode and it's a weird fit for my head to be honest. It's not a bad looking one from the sides but front view shoes mushroom due to the big size accomodation.
I've got the Giro AirAttack and it's crazy comfortable! I bought it mainly for the attachable visor but the extra comfort alone makes it worth the money.
I've got a sexy Canadian flag KASK helmet and a few Giro's, I ride a mid level Giro mostly though and absolutely love it. Very comfy helmets (and I'm sure it'll save my noggin should I ever have to test it)
I suspect the answer to most budget vs top end comparisons will be “the budget stuff is really good and excellent value, but the expensive stuff just feels a little nicer”... what would be really interesting is to have these comparisons judged by a novice who doesn’t know Tiagra from Dura Ace, or dhb from Assos. (Good luck finding one though.) Throw them in the kit or on a bike with different options, don’t explain which is which, and see if they can tell any difference.
What about comparing cheap vs expensive spd pedals? I surely would dig that one...
Both pass the minimum safety requirements. What it comes down to is the cost of engineering to make 4 ounces of plastic to do was 12 ounces can do.
I recently came off my bike at speed & my head along with the rest of my body was hurled into a cattle grid af full force. My Giro MIPS helmet saved my life without a shadow of a doubt. If I had not been wearing my helmet the right side & temple region of my head would have impacted into the cattle grid. I was badly bruised around my ribs, arms & legs. They are now healed. Please guys, Always wear a MIPS helmet.
Budget vs Premium Cassettes. I think the real differences will show over the long term but I’m curious about steel vs aluminum. Thanks
Please do entry level bike versus top-end bike or mid-range bike I would love to see the difference between the top end of the specialized allez line versus the specialized tarmac
What do you mean? Top of the line Allez is the same as top of the line Tarmac excluding that Allez is aluminium and supposedly stiffer and more aero.
Alex Carrick. I would like to know what the difference is in a back-to-back comparison test not reading a stat sheet on what the bikes are supposedly like
I'm not reading a stat sheet. My opinion is based on what people who ride the bike say. Just watched a bunch of Red Hook and crit racing and experience some myself. The science will tell you that the bikes have a 2 watt difference or some shit. The important information is the material of the frame, because for me at least, whether a frame is gonna cost 1k for carbon repairs or a few hundred dollars for alloy repairs is more important than single digit watts.
Although, if you want to see them say that with legitimate science behind it, who am I to say otherwise.
There's no point in doing these tests if you'd ask me. Those differences are really really easy to figure out. Compare the reviews for the frame from their reviews, and the equipment from reviews from groupsets and wheels for example. All bikes have different levels of kit so it's really easy to see where the money goes. The bigger questions are things like comparing different groupsets (Sora vs. 105 or Ultegra vs. Dura-Ace for instance) or questioning wether you want deep section wheels or not.
I have the Isode MIPS. Got it for $55. It offers the same protection as a helmet costing $200+ more while only being slightly larger in profile. It's a great helmet.
no words on rollcage and multi inmold constructions of the upper end helmets in the Video?
this makes the real difference between both models.
I have an old giro stylus, 255 grammes.Bought it years ago for about £40. it does the job.
Dennis Nowland helmets degrade over time and safety of new ones has improved - get a new one budget or otherwise
Helmets should be replaced after 5 years, regardless of amount of use. There should be a sticker inside with the manufacturing date. The styrofoam lining deteriorates due to age and fluctuations of heat and cold. Don't risk your brain through a catastrophic head injury, for the sake saving a few quid/bucks, etc.
I use giro reverb urban helmet as an aero helmet, it has minimal vents a dome shape similar to their top of line aero helmets and are light. I have a few of em and they cost £40 ish quid the best thing is they have a z replica one!!
My isode is different. They make it differently in the U.S the U.S one doesn’t have the net in the vent holes and the chinstraps are the normal ones found on the synthe
You know I understand that bikes are a lot cheaper than cars for instance but 500% more expensive for things that are just personal preference is rediculous. I mean these aren't the only 2 helmets in the world so you should be able to find the features you like in a budget helmet.
Shoes are always a good one. My helmet is budget and I'm very happy with it.
I think your brain needs more protection than a budget helmet can provide, versus the shoes you wear when riding.
Price is demand-based I think. Not to mention much fewer racing helmets will be sold.
An impact test would be the real measure to see if the extra cost is worth it.
Good presentation þ comparison. I went with the Giro MIPS. Thanks!
I've had Catlike Whispers, and a POC Octal, but the best fitting helmet I've ever had is a $50 Giro Revel.
You’ve just had an accident Oliver after the fact were you glad you had the helmet you had or do you wish you had a higher or lower range helmet?
Both helmets meet the same safety standard, although mips is said to offer added protection. I have no way of validating this claim though.
How would the Cinder(mid range) fit in? I think thats even more interesting
Jos Demacker and you can quite often find the cinder for around £50, I have it and it’s very good in my opinion
I did have a synth and would like one again but £250 for a helmet is prohibitively expensive. There is clearly no improvement that warrants the vast increase in price. What you get does not justify the price and neither does the cost to manufacture.
Really helpful video. Some things are fashion, some things are performance gains that get less as you pay more but still are worth it to some, helmets are something else: one’s life might depend upon it. This accords with other tests I have seen: the cheaper helmet will do a great job as a helmet should. It’s going to be true with the brands, but beware the ‘too cheap’ knock-offs. No place to park sunglasses and 3G heavier? That’s fine, I’ll keep the £200 change!
I own a $320 helmet and recently purchased a ninety dollar helmet. Guess what, the less expensive one is just as light, fit better, has the new MIPS technology, and looks the same as the more expensive one. Point is why pay the premium.
Thank you. I was wondering about the Isolde and Thais video has answered my questions. Appreciate it.
I have a large noggin, so I can only choose based on the small number of helmets that fit, and they've turned out to be around the USD $60 price mark, and both have been giro helmets specifically made for big heads-up first the Atlas, and now the Bishop. I've tried dozens, and my damn head only allows these.
This makes me not want to buy another Giro helmet. The two I have are not my favorite to wear. They were not cheap, which just makes me think I overpaid. LOL
I have always bought the lower end Giro helmets. The differences are just too minimal, after all, they’re just helmets.
If you've ever gotten a bee in your helmet you know that netting is worth its weight in gold. I'm surprised you don't see it more.
I had a synthe two yeara ago and I remember it had a retention system that could be adjusted up and down without effort, now I have a synthe mips and the retention system is not the one I remember, it feels weaker and can't be adjusted up and down by simply pulling it, I don't get how the one with mips that is far more expensive has now a worse retention system.
Helmets are individual. I always had a laser and spent the cash and then I discovered a £15 (it was half price, usually 30) model from planet x which was comfier and didn't keep breaking at the straps unlike the laser). Then they discontinued it :'(
Carbon alloy wheels vs carbon wheels vs aluminum wheels
Thank you for your excellent presentation. It answered questions I had and some I had not considered. Bravo.
The problem with comparing free products (they were free, weren't they?) is you have to walk a fine line with your negative comments.
You've done that.......great video.
Having returned to cycling after a 40 year hiatus I was staggered by the pricing of some items. Personally, I’m gullible enough to pay the odd premium price every now and then but rather than comparisons like this one I’d just like companies to explain WHY top of the range helmets, bib tights, waterproofs etc. are the price that they are. Frankly I find them implausible so won’t buy ‘em, but might if I could see prices justified.
great advice, just bought new bike and need a new helmet
I had a rta wearing a cheapo decathlon resulted in zero physical injury but internal bash
“Absolutely bangin’ helmet”
Pun intended?
Yeah great Ollie, I have the 49£, fits awesome but for £200 more is cooler, it depends with the riders living, if your rich why not for the expensive,, it all ends on our safety. Hope to see you visit the giro factory.
Cheap helmets with MIPS also have poor ventilation. The cheap one in the MIPS version could propably be noticeably worse in that regard.
Budget vs expensive lights would be good. Also, bibshorts and jerseys.
Unless you're sponsored by Giro I see no reason to get the more expensive one. I wouldn't be surprised if a pro used the cheaper one and had no difference in their time. I feel like after $100 there are quickly diminishing returns in helmets.
Bad Drivers of Columbus, Georgia aerodynamics is the reason
On the cyclists helmets must throw a load of 22.5 kilograms from a height of 180 centimeters. That's how bicycle forks are checked. Try to do it.
🤣 that was a fantastic comparo ! Enjoyed it, especially the pauses of ... honesty! Thanks heaps!👍🏾😀
I expected a crash test. This is the ultimate test. Which one offers the best protection? This is what really matters.
I bought a Schwinn Helmet at target on clearance for $12 funny it looks just like that .Gyro except it as a visor which I love for riding at night when someones lights in my eyes I just set my head down and it immediately blocks it it also looks just like your Gyro.I’ll bet if you dropped a 12 pound shotput on either of them the results would be the same
I wish my Synthe had a fly net. Getting wasps and bees in my helmet is a pretty common and disturbing experience.
You could glue/tape some netting inside.
I really liked your honesty in this video. Giro makes some great helmets and you don’t have to break the bank to pay for them. At the same time, if you like the more expensive versions, by all means get it.
I would love to see a comparison of top of the line kit vs. entry level kit (jersey and shorts). Also a good comparison of shimano 105 vs Ultegra vs Dura Ace.
Keep up the great work.
To make it worse, it's not an either-or world out there, even if all you are looking at Giro, you can gat an Agilis MIPS helmet for $90USD that seems to include a lot of the features of the Synthe.
I'd like to see comparison of a Giro vs the Oakley Areo 5.
The cheaper helmet is using technology that people paid 3x the price for back in the 90's. Most people will never be as fast as the pro's using lesser helmets of years past. That's why the helmet does not matter so long as it's sufficiently safe.