Last year's Consumer Reports gave best buy to Louis Garneau Zen/Rev (either one) as their best buy. Rated on Impact, Retention, Ventilation and Ease of Use.

I recently got one (when I researched it up) for about $50.


Recall Helmets to Avoid:
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DBX and Geartec bicycle helmets

Problem:
Helmets failed an impact test and may not provide adequate protection in a fall.

Products:
4,600 helmets including the DBX Engage (model VT-3) and DBX Ravage (FX-2) sold 6/03 to 6/04 at Dick’s Sporting Goods stores nationwide for $40 to $60; and Geartec ESPY helmets sold 5/03 to 6/03 at KHS Bicycles stores for about $40. Geartec and Ravage models came in carbon yellow, silver, or blue, and have a carbon fiber graphic. Helmets have 15 vent holes, removable visor, and “Geartec” or “DBX” logo printed on both sides. Engage helmet came in either blue/silver/black, red/yellow/black, or silver/black. It also has 15 vent holes, removable visor, and “DBX” logo on both sides. There have been no reports of any incidents involving helmet failures.
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Variflex "X-Games Aggressive" bicycle helmet

May not protect head adequately in fall.

Products: 240,000 black, white, or chrome helmets, sold 10/99 to 9/00 at sporting-goods and discount department stores for about $20. Helmet has red "X-Games" insignia on front and "X-Games" written on back. Large label inside reads "SGS CPSC CY50159." "Variflex Inc.," "Static," and "Made in Taiwan" appear on packaging.
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Bell Bellistic, Qualifier, and Rhythm bicycle helmets

Could come off in crash, exposing rider to serious head injury.

Products: 5,800 helmets, used for BMX and downhill mountain biking and racing, sold 10/98-4/99 at bicycle dealers for $90 to $125. Helmets are red, green, black, white and "Tear Away" (multicolored) with model name appearing on package. Recalled helmets have date sticker inside bearing date from 10/98 through 3/99. "BELL" appears on sides and visor.