Decent clearance deal on what is technically last year's model of MET Vinci MIPS helmet at 99Bikes. You might have to search around for stock if you want C&C, though you can also opt to have the White version delivered for free.
Black: https://www.99bikes.com.au/helmet-met-vinci-mips-black-52-56…
White: https://www.99bikes.com.au/met-vinci-mips-road-helmet-white
By way of comparison, the "2022" version is $179 (Club Price).
Happy riding!
Good to know! I just went to get some new bar tape from 99Bikes and walked out with the helmet as well :P
Can someone tell me what makes bike helmets cost this much?
Style, features, brand name, breathability, MIPS (or not), quality of materials (padding, straps etc, unlikely the actual construction).
Safety wise you are quite possibly just as safe with a $10 one from BigW (MIPS maybe changes this equation).
Less than $100 for a helmet isn't expensive anyway, especially for a brand with good reputation.
It is true that safety wise, all helmets sold in Australia meet Australian Standards so will protect you. MIPS will arguably protect you a little bit more in some circumstances, but you're on the money in terms of quality of materials, comfort in general noticeably better on this helmet than a $50 generic.
don't forget the biggest and most important factor in any road bike related purchase… more $$$ = less weight = Faster ;)
@timatello: true, but while this helmet weighs less than my previous helmet, weight weenies would argue that it is still a bit on the heavy side.
@notwhelmed: Agreed, but having just weighed this (white, L) against my to-be-retired 3.5yr old Kask Mojito 2 (L), despite the addition of MIPS the Vinci is only 12g heavier.
How much do you value your head?
Seriously though, there's a tonne of RnD, certification etc. involved in designing and making a good helmet and this is where most of the cost is.
It's not expensive. You're probably used to buying cheap ones from Kmart. But higher end ones used by the pro cost can cost around $500 lol
We get charged extra due to certification costs.
https://cyclingtips.com/2019/03/australia-has-a-new-helmet-s…
The cheap ones from Kmart start falling apart after 6 months.
The more expensive ones last a long time and are built with much more comfortable materials. Also they are meant to protect you better.
That's aside from aesthetics which for some people is the main factor, but for others doesn't really matter.
Don't they lose effectiveness after a period of time (ie the foam gets harder and offers less impact protection?)?
My mate replaces expensive lids every 3 years approx , or keeps for random errands not daily use.
I tend to keep too long so need to ditch one or two.
@UFO: guess depends how much you use it- probably don't need to that often if not cycling every day in the sun/rain.
probably good not to keep for 10y i guess.
because Australia wants to be different to everyone else. https://cyclingtips.com/2022/07/australia-is-reviewing-its-h…
Making the helmet as light and aerated as possible whilst still meeting or exceeding safety standards is a fine art
$100 is cheap mate. If you spend any less they are pretty average for the reasons listed but technically should do the job.
PS. Black isn't a very safe colour but looks a bit better in this model imo
Thanks OP! Bit of an upgrade from a kmart helmet i have!
I was in the market for one of these or similar, and saw the sale at 99bikes and grabbed one. Great helmet for the price.
Will this prevent magpie attacks?
As long as you attach the optional Magpie Deterrz XLS pro plus 8mm thick 200mm long zipties add-on? Plenty of them.
For enhanced protection you can also stick to using it indoors only haha
MIPS helmet from costco for $60 if you are a member. I don't have 1 so cannot comment on experience.
https://www.costco.com.au/Sports-Fitness-Leisure/Bikes-Scoot…
Thanks mate, that'll do me!
Would do the job, may be worth tyring on both - more vents, different padding fit and comfort no doubt.
Still pretty good for $60 compared to most of the entry level stuff.
I initially thought it was a mouse :)
Good to see that MIPS is coming down in price and making its way to more economical helmets. You can pickup the Giant MIPS Relay for $79.95 RRP all day, every day at a Giant dealership. It's a good helmet for the price (of course you really do need to try on helmets to make sure they fit your noggin). There's other brands out there now with MIPS as well similarly price .
Cheers OP. These look good for the price, ordered a click and collect in white (but obviously will try on first). Still wouldn't mind a black for variety of colours but isn't a very safe colour.
How long do you guys keep your old helmets, got a Giro Synthe mips in 2018 that's still fine, and another giro that's older and not the most comfortable (Plus a much older/heavier met that has to go but the brand seems more comfortable personally).
Do you bin them or Vinnie's if not damaged? Using them in the elements probably degrades them over time so I guess they aren't designed to keep forever.
I thought it was a mouse
I don't know much about helmets but found another potential option. Specialized Align II going for $60.79, down from $80. Well reviewed and various colours and sizes still available.
15% off vs 50% off..
Just try them both on. 99 Bikes Brisbane CBD had a fair few in store, great for the price and seem pretty comfortable.
ps the sunglass 'dock' isn't really existent or what they claim, but you don't usually get a good one unless spending $300 (like the Synthe).
Straps are basic adjusters but work and stay secured
I have the white version of this helmet and its a great all rounder. Well vented, as well as not being too bulky. It's very light and comfortable and looks good. It's a very slim fit so it doesn't make you look like a bell end