Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

As an avid cyclist and racer for 30-plus years, I've long since outgrown the need to be seen using the latest gear endorsed by Lance or Alberto or Andy. Let's face it: A big reason for the high cost of many cycling accessories is marketing and sponsorships. Products like helmets are little more than commodities, so manufacturers have to differentiate their high-end brain buckets by paying big-name riders to wear them. Helmet technology has evolved to the point where there's little functional difference between entry-level models and the top of the line ones. They all consist of a shell, nylon webbing and some EPS foam. And while the more costly units may carry stickers signifying compliance with multiple certification standards (Snell, ASTM, CPSC, etc.), keep in mind that manufacturers are obligated to pay for the costs of testing along with (in many cases) royalty fees that grant them the privilege of applying the stickers of certain privately-funded safety foundations. A given helmet may well comply with the latest Snell standard, but unless the manufacturer pays Snell's fees, they can't say it does. So that brings us to the Bell Solar. I've worn many Bell helmets (and crashed a few) over the years and have never found their protection to be lacking in any area. I originally bought a Solar as the first adult-sized helmet for my still-growing daughter, so I didn't want to spend too much on one that might well end up being replaced in a year. Once it arrived, I was pleasantly surprised to find that the adjustable-fit system would accommodate even my 60cm melon, and it was a couple ounces lighter than the dated Giro I'd been using. So I bought another one for myself. After more than 2000 miles of training, racing and touring (including 540 miles on the week-long Ride The Rockies), I have no complaints at all. The Solar fits well and has sufficient airflow to keep my head cool even when racing a criterium on a 90-degree day. Plus, its ridiculously low price means I have money left over to spend on other stuff for my bike.