If possible, visit REI or any store that stocks helmets. Handle them, examine the insides, fittings, straps and locks. You'll see why the Bern and Nutcase helmets cost around $70, compared with the Bell Segment and similar non-racer helmets.

Nothing wrong with the Bell -- Bells are usually excellent values -- but the attention to detail in the Bern and Nutcase is extraordinary when compared with others.

Tonight I examined several helmets at the local REI and will probably buy a Bern or Nutcase as my winter helmet (they're probably too hot for Texas summers). The padding, straps, tension/fit adjustment and, especially with the Nutcase, the snaps, are all extraordinary for $70.

And after some uncomfortable close calls tonight during a rainy ride, including the most ridiculous right hook I've experienced yet, I'm ready for a most substantial helmet for cool and rainy rides.

And I did buy a better headlight at REI after nearly an hour of playing with most of the popular brands and models of headlights and taillights. I can see why REI is so popular. Few bike shops carry that kind of variety in selections.