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Find the Best Deals: Top 10 Cheap Bike Helmets Under $100 in 2023

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Bell Avenue MIPS

The Bell Avenue MIPS helmet provides exceptional value, surpassing expectations in terms of quality and price. Reviewed by the BikeRadar team, this helmet is a top choice for budget-conscious cyclists.
  • Price: $65/$120 (as tested)

When it comes to cycling helmet options, spending a hefty sum of over $300 / $300 is not the only way to ensure adequate protection. In fact, our selection of the best budget bike helmets proves that high-quality safeguarding is accessible without breaking the bank.

Regardless of your cycling preferences, whether it be mountain biking, road cycling, or using a helmet for commuting purposes, our picks have got you covered. Each of these options, meticulously rated and evaluated by the BikeRadar experts, offers optimal comfort, a secure fit, and affordability, all priced at less than $100.

In the past, Multi-directional Impact Protection System (MIPS) technology was a luxury found solely in premium helmets. However, nowadays, this ingenious feature can also be found in various affordable cycling helmets. MIPS is specifically engineered to provide additional defense in cases of rotational impacts to the head during accidents.

The majority of the highly rated helmets, according to the independent assessments conducted annually by Virginia Tech, incorporate MIPS. These assessments consider the exceptional value and safety of the helmets, ensuring comprehensive protection for cyclists.

We have curated a collection of the best helmets under $100 that cater to the specific needs of road cyclists, mountain bikers, and commuters who exclusively cycle to work. For those who may desire pricier options, we recommend exploring our comprehensive guides detailing the best road bike helmets and the best mountain bike helmets. These guides encompass a range of helmets, from budget-friendly choices to top-of-the-line models favored by professional cyclists, accompanied by an extensive buyer’s guide.

Furthermore, if you are interested in enduro helmets, we have a dedicated guide that showcases the best options available. These versatile helmets can be worn with or without a chin protector, proving ideal for mountain biking enthusiasts seeking maximum flexibility.

For now, let’s delve into our selection of the finest bike helmets priced under $100 (or around $150). Rest assured that each of these helmets has undergone thorough evaluation and review by the BikeRadar team to ensure they meet our stringent standards of quality and performance.

MIPS Included

The Avenue MIPS, as its name suggests, comes with MIPS technology for added protection. With a total of 18 vents, there is excellent airflow, and we were impressed with how easy it is to adjust and how well it stays in place.

Despite weighing 310g, the Bell Avenue MIPS is still within a reasonable range considering its exceptional value compared to other affordable bike helmets.

  • Read our comprehensive review of the Bell Avenue MIPS helmet

Specialized Propero 3 ANGi

The Specialized Propero 3 helmet takes many design cues from the high-end Prevail model, featuring both MIPS technology and ANGi. Photo courtesy of Dave Caudery / Immediate Media.

  • Price: $95/$140/€130/AU$200 (as tested)
  • Includes both MIPS and ANGi sensor
  • Impressive attention to detail and excellent airflow

With its internal skeleton, the Specialized Propero 3 weighs a reasonable 305g in medium size. We were particularly pleased with the high-quality straps that stayed dry and comfortable even during intense rides, as well as its shape that closely resembles the top-of-the-line Prevail helmet.

Specialized has taken extra steps to prioritize safety in their budget-friendly road helmet, incorporating both MIPS and the ANGi crash protector. This innovative system detects abnormal accelerative forces and, when paired with your smartphone, alerts your chosen contacts in the event of a potential accident.

  • Check out our detailed review of the Specialized Propero 3 helmet

Bell 4Forty MIPS

The Bell 4Forty MIPS is a feature-packed mountain bike helmet. Photo courtesy of BikeRadar / Immediate Media.

  • Price: $90/$110 /AU$180 (as tested)

Bell 4Forty MIPS Helmet Review

The Bell 4Forty offers a comfortable fit and easy adjustability of the fit system. It provides excellent airflow through its 15 vents, making it a great option for long climbs. The helmet’s shape is especially suitable for those with rounded heads. Additionally, the visor can be adjusted high enough to accommodate goggles, although indexed adjustment would have been a preferable feature.

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To learn more about the Bell 4Forty MIPS helmet, you can read our full review here.

Cannondale Junction Helmet

The Cannondale Junction helmet offers exceptional quality and performance at an affordable price. It provides outstanding value for money and comes equipped with MIPS technology. The only downside is that the helmet’s straps are excessively long, but they can be easily trimmed.

The Junction helmet is suitable for off-road adventures and gravel rides. It even features a removable peak for added versatility. Despite its comprehensive safety features, the Junction remains lightweight and provides ample ventilation, ensuring comfort even on warm, lengthy rides.

To delve deeper into the Cannondale Junction helmet, feel free to read our full review here.

Lazer Chiru MIPS Helmet

The Lazer Chiru is an excellent option for those seeking MIPS protection but are on a budget. Priced at just $60, it offers exceptional value for money. Tested and approved, this helmet ensures the safety of the cyclist.

To obtain more information about the Lazer Chiru MIPS helmet, you can find our detailed review here.

  • Comfortable, neutral fit. The Lazer Chiru MIPS helmet provides a comfortable and neutral fit, ensuring a pleasant riding experience. It offers good adjustability and does not bounce as you ride.
  • Some glasses won’t fit on the helmet. However, it is important to note that some glasses may not fit properly on this helmet.

The Lazer Chiru MIPS helmet is known for its excellent fit and exceptional comfort. It is designed to provide a secure and adjustable fit, allowing riders to enjoy their cycling experience without any discomfort. While its airflow may not be as exceptional as other top-rated mountain bike helmets, it still provides sufficient ventilation to avoid excessive heat buildup. The helmet features a non-adjustable pop-on visor, adding to its functionality.

Before purchasing this helmet, it is advisable to check if your sunglasses are compatible with it. Some larger-framed models might run out of space. However, goggles can be comfortably worn with this helmet without any issues. It is a budget-friendly option that also includes MIPS technology for added safety.

To learn more about the Lazer Chiru MIPS helmet, you can read our comprehensive review here.

Scott Argo Plus

There is a slight drop at the back of the helmet, but it is not specifically designed for enduro riders. It offers a comfortable fit and features an effective visor.

Russell Burton / Our Media

  • $75/$100/€80 as tested. The Scott Argo Plus helmet is priced at $75 in the UK, $100 in the US, and €80 in Europe based on our testing.
  • Includes a MIPS liner. Despite not having MIPS in its name, the Scott Argo Plus helmet comes with a MIPS liner, providing an additional layer of protection.
  • Comfortable, with an effective visor. This helmet prioritizes comfort and functionality. It provides a comfortable fit and features a visor that effectively shields the rider’s eyes from sun glare or debris.

With a weight of 366g, the Scott Argo Plus helmet offers a reasonable balance between weight and price. However, it may not provide as much rear coverage as some other trail helmets. The non-adjustable visor, although fixed, proves to be effective without obstructing the field of vision.

The helmet’s cradle ensures a secure and comfortable fit, and the ratchet dial system makes it easy to adjust. While it performs well when paired with the best mountain bike gloves, it doesn’t manage sweat as efficiently as top-tier mountain bike helmets.

For a detailed review of the Scott Argo Plus helmet, you can visit our website here.

Van Rysel RoadR 500

If you are a beginner cyclist and are looking for an affordable option without compromising quality, the Van Rysel RoadR 500 is an excellent choice.

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Immediate Media

  • $30/$40/€35 as tested. The Van Rysel RoadR 500 helmet is priced at $30 in the UK, $40 in the US, and €35 in Europe based on our testing.
  1. Great looks for a budget helmet
    The Van Rysel RoadR 500 helmet offers a stylish appearance without breaking the bank. Its aesthetic gives the impression of a high-end option, despite its affordable price. Moreover, its 14 vents allow for optimum airflow, ensuring comfort during rides.
  2. Good ventilation from its 14 vents
    Equipped with 14 vents, the Van Rysel RoadR 500 helmet provides excellent ventilation. These carefully placed openings enable a steady flow of air, keeping the cyclist cool and refreshed.

Decathlon offers an impressive range of cycling gear, and the Van Rysel RoadR 500 helmet is a prime example. This model stands out due to its attractive design and the illusion of a costlier product. Its 14 ventilation vents ensure a pleasant riding experience throughout.

The adjustment mechanism functions effectively; however, it may not match the quality of higher-priced helmet options. While it lacks additional sliding plane protection, the RoadR helmet remains an exceptional value for money.

Endura Xtract II

Endura presents the Xtract II as its entry-level road helmet. Immediate Media

  • $60/€75 as tested
  • Great airflow and a quality feel
  • No MIPS option

Despite its status as an entry-level choice, the Xtract II road helmet from Endura exudes a sense of quality. Its shell snugly envelops the EPS foam core, significantly reducing the chances of scratches and signs of wear.

The dial adjuster boasts a rubber coating, ensuring an easy grip for precise fitting adjustments. The helmet also offers excellent airflow, effectively preventing overheating during rides. Additionally, it maintains a lightweight profile, weighing in at a mere 270g. This reduction in weight is partly due to the absence of MIPS technology, which typically adds extra grams to helmet designs.

  • Read our full Endura Xtract II helmet review

Giant Relay MIPS

The Giant Relay MIPS helmet provides the benefit of a MIPS liner at an incredibly affordable price. Our Media

  • $45/$50/€47.50/AU$80 as tested

Great value for a MIPS helmet

  • Looking for a cost-effective MIPS helmet? Look no further!
  • Impressive ventilation keeps you cool during your rides.

Another remarkable budget-friendly option for road cyclists is the Giant Relay MIPS helmet. This helmet seamlessly incorporates MIPS technology into its design, providing enhanced safety. With 17 vents and anti-odour padding, you can enjoy excellent airflow and comfort. It’s worth mentioning that the independent Virginia Tech annual helmet safety testing awarded this helmet with a prestigious five-star rating.

The adjustment system of the Giant Relay MIPS helmet might not be the smoothest, but it gets the job done effectively. Weighing just under 350g, this helmet is hardly noticeable when you’re pedaling away.

  • Discover more in our comprehensive Giant Relay MIPS review

Limar Air Stratos

The Limar Air Stratos cycling helmet, primarily designed for gravel riders, performs exceptionally well on the road too. David Caudery / Our Media

  • Priced at $80/€100 in our test
  • Top-notch craftsmanship in a lightweight, budget-friendly helmet
  • No MIPS option available

Although technically a gravel helmet (as indicated by its muted matt colors), the Limar Air Stratos closely resembles the best road bike helmets in terms of shape. Optimal padding inside the shell and convenient adjustability, although the dial adjuster is on the smaller side, ensure a comfortable fit.

Limar helmets are renowned for their lightweight construction, and the Air Stratos weighs a mere 240g on the scale, surpassing numerous higher-priced alternatives. It’s worth noting that this helmet does not feature MIPS technology.

  • Check out our in-depth Limar Air Stratos helmet review here

MET Allroad

The MET Allroad helmet is specifically designed to cater to the unique demands of gravel cyclists. Dave Caudery / Immediate Media

    • Tested at $70/€80
      • Design specifically for gravel riding.
      • Includes a built-in light and sun visor.

Mixing the shape of a road helmet with mountain bike features, the MET Allroad is a helmet designed for gravel riders. If you happen to venture onto a road, the helmet has an integrated rear blinkie in the adjuster dial to increase your visibility.

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We were impressed by the comfortable fit and easy adjustment provided by the ponytail-friendly cradle design.

      • To read our comprehensive MET Allroad review, click here

MET Veleno

      • You can purchase the helmet now from ProBikeKit ($67.49), Tredz ($76.99), and Wiggle ($96.00).

The MET Veleno: Breathable and Protective

With a remarkable 26 vents, the MET Veleno is perfect for those scorching summer gravel adventures. Its ample breathability ensures a comfortable ride even in hot and dry conditions. Priced at just $85, it offers deep coverage, catering specifically to gravel riders. Although the peak is not adjustable, its size is sufficient to shield against the sun’s glare. The Veleno’s design strikes a balance between a lightweight road helmet and a mountain bike trail helmet with enhanced coverage.

The rear portion of the Veleno extends further down the head, providing added protection for those unforeseen spills on rough terrain. Its tough polycarbonate shell safeguards the foam core, preventing any wear and tear. Weighing in at 305.8g for the large size, the Veleno remains lightweight despite its superior coverage. A MIPS version is also available for $120.

The Smith Convoy: Exceptional Performance for Less

Smith has proven that a budget helmet can still deliver impressive performance on the trail. Priced at just $65, $85, or €75, the Convoy surpasses expectations. Boasting a great fit and excellent ventilation, it ensures a comfortable ride for riders of all levels. While it offers good rear coverage, it falls slightly short compared to its more expensive counterparts. The Convoy integrates MIPS technology to enhance safety.

One aspect where the Convoy economizes is with its shell. Unlike pricier models, the shell does not fully wrap around the foam core. While this may lead to quicker wear, it remains a minor concern considering the helmet’s overall performance. It should be noted that the non-wrapped core edges make the rim more susceptible to gouges and dents. Nonetheless, the Smith Convoy is a remarkable option for riders seeking exceptional value for their money.

Fit is excellent despite the low-profile padding, which effectively manages sweat accumulation. The visor is not adjustable, but we discovered that it is effortless to position it out of our field of vision by adjusting the helmet’s placement on our heads. The weight of 325g is also reasonable.

      • Take a look at our comprehensive review of the Smith Convoy helmet

Smith Engage MIPS

The Smith Engage is a fully equipped, affordable mountain bike helmet. Andy Lloyd / Immediate Media

      • $95/ $110/€100 as tested
      • Ample padding and excellent ventilation
      • The shell of the helmet fully wraps around the core to enhance durability

Unlike the Smith Convoy, the Smith Engage MIPS does incorporate a shell that entirely envelops the core, potentially increasing its resilience.

While it includes MIPS, unlike Smith’s pricier helmets, there is no Koroyd crushable layer, although Koroyd may slightly impede airflow.

The VaporFit retention system envelops the entire head, offering superb adjustability, and the adjuster dial provides a satisfying click.

The helmet’s fit is also comfortable, boasting generous padding, 21 vents, and effective internal channels.

      • Read our detailed review of the Smith Engage MIPS helmet

Specialized Align II

The Specialized Align II helmet is a top-notch option, albeit slightly weighty. Our Media

      • $45/$55 /€60/AU$80 as tested
      • Incorporates MIPS in an affordably-priced helmet
      • A touch heavier at 374g for a M/L size

Yet another superb budget helmet that showcases the democratization of MIPS, the Specialized Align II also offers a secure fit with a high-quality dial adjuster, alongside ample padding for optimal head comfort.

The 16 vents ensure proper airflow, although we did observe the Align II’s heftier weight of 374g during our rides.

    • Discover more about the Specialized Align II helmet in our comprehensive review
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