parkbrav

Anybody see this in the press and if so does anybody have any experience with the so-called "5 star rated biking helmets"


And while we're on the topic of helmets, what do people think of the so-called Lumos Helmet, the one that has lights that indicate your direction?


Bottom line: is it ever worth $200 for a biking helmet? If so, when?

2_i 

This Virginia Tech analysis seems to be solid work. You can get the top-rated Garnau helmet for $59 on Amazon, so there is your answer regarding $200. Unfortunately they tested only 30 helmets, while I suppose there may be 500-1000 in the market and this when considering only established brands. However, one can see some brand trend in their ratings. On the site of helmets.org you can find more discussion of the helmets - this is not just about impact resistance in a model situation that Virginia Tech analyzes. If you search these forums, you will find a Lumos thread - owners and helmet spotters seem to be pleased - personally I see no point.

JonathanGennick 

The $200 range is probably a case of "you'll know it when you need it". The more one rides, the more that seemingly insignificant details can become surprisingly important to one's comfort and enjoyment, and hence worth their price.