Originally Posted by
msu2001la
I think the point is that there is generally an obvious performance upgrade between a $6000 bike and a $3000 bike. More precise shifting, lighter weight, stiffer frame, more aero, etc.
In the case of helmets, there rarely seems to be much of a performance upgrade between average prices and top-of-the-line. Many times the more expensive helmets aren't any more aero, aren't better vented, aren't any lighter.
Exactly this was my thought. While a rider like me doesn't need or take advantage all a 5,000+ frame can offer, there is no denying that there is more to offer. Better carbon layup, better carbon, design, more aero, better cable, overall accessory integrations, etc etc. Helmets, considering they have one purpose, protection, the cheapest helmets in US, EU and AU still have to abide by the stringest regulations, still have to guarantee high level of protection. And then you can see helmets like KASK, not particularly light, helmets like POC, not particularly aero, and others just not very well ventilated. The value of these helmets seem largely based on marketing to me.
Originally Posted by
silversx80
I can add my little anecdote that I've crashed with expensive and cheap helmets. One of the most significant impacts I was riding in Utah, caught a goathead in the front tire without noticing, took a corner somewhere around 25-30 mph, the front tire was flat, washed out, and I landed squarely on my forehead (helmet right there). The helmet was a ~$200 Giro, compressed the foam enough that I bruised my brow and got some rash as well. No loss of consciousness, no stars, etc., just changed the tire, got back on the bike, finished my ride, went to the LBS and got a new helmet (Giro, paid ~$130, which I wrecked some years later).
My most recent altercation was with a Ford F-150 almost 2 years ago, wearing a simple $40 "Trek" branded helmet. Same experience as above, with no notable head injuries. Replaced that one with a Propero II.
Anyway, a $40 helmet did just fine, and with the impact I took on my head, wearing no helmet would have been a TBI for sure.
And anecdotes like this continue to confuse me why $400 helmets are sought after if they don't perform any better. With other cycling gear, I don't need to buy or try to understand the value they have. While I think the name and their ads are moronic, Assos, I can understand where pricetag is coming from. I can't see it from $400 helmets, they aren't using special materials that a $40 bell isn't.