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“Best Road Bike Helmet Under $100” is a common search term. Why? Well, most people want to find the best helmet for the money, and rightly so. Being on a budget does not mean you can’t get a safe and great quality bike helmet.
In addition, a high-end bicycle helmet will cost hundreds of dollars and offer features that you might not need at all (e.g., aerodynamic design or have a slightly better ventilation system).
This is why In this article, we put together a list of the best bike helmets under $100 that will fit any budget and offer the features you need.
Check out our helpful “frequently asked questions” section below and at the bottom of this article if you need additional help choosing a road bike helmet.
Our TOP 3 Best Road Bike Helmets Under $100:
Related articles:
Are cheap cycling helmets safe?
Each bike helmet must comply with specific safety requirements of the country where it is sold or imported to. For example, all helmets manufactured or imported into the USA must be certified with the CPSC standards. You can read about the safety requirements and the testing procedures here.
In the U.S., a CPSC sticker can be found on the back of a bike helmet. This sticker indicates that a helmet has been tested to meet the safety requirements. If it is not there, the helmet did not undergo CPSC certification testing and cannot be sold in the United States.
You can find a table of safety standards of bike helmets across different countries and economic areas here.
These safety requirements and standards ensure that even a cheap cycling helmet is safe to use. A more expensive bike helmet might have a longer lifespan than a cheaper one because it is designed with higher quality materials and will last longer before showing wear or damage. However, there might be little or no difference in provided safety between an expensive and a cheap bike helmet. You will need to read product descriptions to see which helmet is safer to use.
However, if your budget allows you can check out the best road bike helmets under $200 that we shortlisted after hours of research and testing. In that article, we also answered the question “what’s the difference between a cheaper and more expensive helmet”.
MIPS is an acronym for Multi-directional Impact Protection System, which was designed to reduce the rotational forces on the brain in case of an impact. It does this by adding soft interior layers that shift 10-15mm independently inside the helmet, lessening or reducing any rotational movement during a crash.
You can find answers to all of the questions about MIPS here.
The MIPS liner has proven itself effective and reliable when tested with laboratory simulations through third-party organizations. For example, Virginia Tech scored 30 different helmets on its safety. The top 6 helmets had an integrated MIPS technology. You can read more about the experiment here.
The good news is that nowadays even budget helmets can have an integrated MIPS technology. We think that it is worth choosing a helmet with this feature.
Of course, every accident is different, and none of the technologies or brands can offer a full guarantee of safety. Just be mindful and careful on the road.
Our Pick of 15 Best Road Bike Helmets Under $100:
1. Specialized Align II MIPS Road Helmet
- MIPS Technology: Yes
Positives
- Integrated MIPS technology
- Great price
- Fantastic look and style
- Very comfortable
- Great color choices
- Good ventilation
- Perfect all-around choice
Negatives
- Ear straps can't be adjusted
The Specialized Align II MIPS Road Helmet is the perfect choice for riders who want an excellent product at a great price. It has all of the features you need in a helmet, and it looks terrific!
Plus, with so many color choices available, there’s one that will match your bike perfectly.
This helmet is comfortable and well-ventilated. Furthermore, with MIPS technology built into the design, this helmet offers protection from rotational and linear forces – which means even more safety when riding fast downhill or doing tricks on your bike!
The Headset S.X. dial fit system is excellent for finding a perfect fit.
The only downside to this excellent product is that there’s not much adjustability in terms of strap length at the ears – but if that doesn’t bother you, then you found yourself an excellent budget helmet.
2. Smith Signal Bike Helmet
- MIPS Technology: Yes
Positives
- Integrated MIPS technology
- Great value for money option
- Lightweight
- Very comfortable
- Easy to adjust
- Stylish look
Negatives
- Not much
Smith Signal is one of the most popular and trusted bike helmets on the market. It’s lightweight, very comfortable, and stylish too.
The integrated MIPS technology makes it an excellent value for money option. This helmet will keep you safe while looking good.
And because it has an adjustable dial system, you can easily find the perfect fit for any size head.
Overall, this is an excellent value-for-money option highly recommended by us!
3. Kask Rapido Bike Helmet
- MIPS Technology: Yes
Positives
- Integrated MIPS technology
- Super lightweight
- Stylish look and many color choices
- Aerodynamic
- Fantastic ventilation
- Excellent crash replacement policy
- Up and down fit system
Negatives
- Not much
The Rapido is one of the lightest helmets on the market and has an integrated MIPS technology for added protection. This helmet is lightweight, stylish, and aerodynamic with great ventilation.
In addition, it has an up and down fit system on the back to make sure you get the best possible fit. Plus, it comes in many colors, so you can find one that matches your style!
Kask also offers a good crash replacement policy in the event of unfortunate incidents.
It is hard to spot any downsides.
4. Specialized Echelon II Mips Bike Helmet
- MIPS Technology: Yes
Positives
- Integrated MIPS technology
- Great adjustment system
- Fits well
- ANGi system compatibility
- Good ventilation
Negatives
- Slightly heavy
The Specialized Echelon II Mips Bike Helmet is one of the best bike helmets on the market. It has an integrated MIPS system, which helps reduce rotational forces that can lead to brain injuries.
It also offers excellent ventilation and fits well because of its adjustable dial system.
Plus, it’s compatible with ANGi, so if you get in an accident, it will be able to contact your emergency contacts right away! However, this will bring the cost up to as the crash sensor is sold separately.
On the downside, this helmet is slightly heavier than some other alternatives.
5. Giro Agilis MIPS Helmet
- MIPS Technology: Yes
Positives
- MIPS technology
- Stylish look and many color choices
- Comfortable padding
- Easy to use adjustment system and straps
Negatives
- Not much
The Giro Agilis MIPS Helmet is a perfect choice. It fits very well and is comfortable due to plenty of padding.
Plus, it has an easy-to-use adjustment system and straps so you can customize your fit. Also, it is available in many popular colors.
With its integrated MIPS technology, this helmet is designed to help reduce rotational forces on the brain caused by angled impacts like those experienced in bike accidents or car crashes.
It is hard to spot any downsides of this helmet.
6. Thousand Heritage Bike & Skate Helmet
- MIPS Technology: No
Positives
- Great replacement policy
- Suitable for skating
- Secret pop lock
- Vegan leather straps
- Large color choice
- Unique style and design
Negatives
- Quite heavy
- No MIPS technology
The Thousand Heritage helmet is a perfect helmet for skaters and cyclists alike. This helmet is made with vegan leather straps, comes in many colors, and has a unique style and design that will make your friends jealous.
The secret pop lock makes it easier than ever to lock up when you reach your destination.
Plus, the crash replacement policy is excellent. Customers can replace their damaged helmets for free (terms & conditions apply).
On the negative side, this helmet is quite heavy and doesn’t have MIPS technology like some other alternatives.
7. Abus Viantor Road Bike Helmet
- MIPS Technology: No
Positives
- Multiple color choices
- Excellent ventilation
- Adjustment wheel available
- Comfortable
- Close-fitting
- Ponytail compatible
Negatives
- No MIPS technology
The Abus Viantor Road Bike Helmet offers an ideal mix of style and safety at a reasonable price point for all types of cyclists who want to stay safe on their bike rides.
This road bike helmet has 14 ventilation holes that keep riders cool even in hot weather conditions. In addition, the adjustment wheel allows you to find the perfect fit quickly.
Plus, this lightweight road bike helmet comes in several different colors, so you can choose one that matches your personality and style perfectly.
On the downside, this helmet does not have an integrated MIPS technology.
8. Bell Formula MIPS Road Bike Helmet
- MIPS Technology: Yes
Positives
- Integrated MIPS technology
- Comfortable
- Lightweight
- Easy to adjust the fit
- Durable
Negatives
- Not much
Bell has designed the Formula MIPS Road Bike Helmet with comfort, weight, and safety in mind.
It features an adjustable fit system, which can be tailored to any head size or shape and is super easy to use.
The integrated MIPS technology helps reduce rotational forces on the brain caused by angled impacts. And the durable construction should help to keep you safer in all situations.
It is tough to spot any downsides.
9. Bern Allston Commuting Bike Helmet
- MIPS Technology: No
Positives
- Great ventilation
- Stylish look
- Boa adjustment system
- Multiple colors are available
- Perfect for commuting
Negatives
- No MIPS technology
- Quite heavy
The Bern Allston Bike Helmet is perfect for biking to work, school, or just around town. It has excellent ventilation so you can stay cool even on the hottest days of summer.
Plus, it looks good with its sleek design and boa adjustment system that lets you customize your fit on the go. And don’t forget about all the colors! You can find one that matches your bike or choose your favorite color.
On the negative side, this helmet does not have MIPS technology incorporated and is slightly heavier than some other road bike helmets.
10. Bontrager Solstice MIPS Bike Helmet
- MIPS Technology: Yes
Positives
- Affordable price
- MIPS technology
- Built-in and removable visor
- Easy to adjust and find the perfect fit
- Magnetic buckle for easier fastening
- Multiple colors available
Negatives
- Straps construction could be better
The Bontrager Solstice MIPS is the perfect choice for riders who want an affordable, comfortable, stylish bike helmet. It’s got integrated MIPS technology, which helps reduce rotational forces that can cause brain injury.
Plus, this helmet has a built-in and removable visor. It also has an easy-to-adjust fit system with a magnetic buckle for fastening. There are also multiple colors (including black) available so you can find your perfect match.
On the negative side, some riders complain that the construction of the straps is not very easy to use and could be improved.
11. Giro Register MIPS Bike Helmet
- MIPS Technology: Yes
Positives
- Great value for money
- Integrated MIPS technology
- Quick-dry padding
- Compact shape
- Excellent ventilation
Negatives
- Slightly bulky
The Giro Register MIPS Bike Helmet is a perfect choice. It’s got all the features you need to keep your head safe, and it won’t break the bank.
This helmet has integrated MIPS technology, which means that it can absorb more impact than traditional helmets. Plus, this helmet is quick-dry padding which helps to deal with sweat build-up as you ride.
It offers excellent ventilation and comfort no matter how long of a ride you take!
On the downside, it is slightly bulkier than some other more expensive alternatives.
12. Lazer Blade+ MIPS Bike Helmet
- MIPS Technology: Yes
Positives
- Integrated MIPS technology
- Easy to adjust and find a perfect fit
- Compatible with ponytails
- Good look
Negatives
- A bit overpriced
The Lazer Blade+ MIPS Bike Helmet is a good helmet option for many cyclists. It has an integrated MIPS technology that protects against rotational forces, and it’s easy to adjust and find a perfect fit.
Plus, the construction is compatible with ponytails! It also looks good on both men and women, so you don’t have to worry about looking like a dork when you ride your bike around town.
On the negative side, we feel like this helmet is a bit overpriced.
13. Nutcase MIPS Bike Helmet
- MIPS Technology: Yes
Positives
- Integrated MIPS technology
- Cute look and stylish design
- Many reflective elements
Negatives
- Very heavy
The Nutcase MIPS Bike Helmet is the perfect helmet for any cyclist who wants to stay safe while looking stylish.
It’s got a cute look, integrated MIPS technology, many reflective elements, and a stylish design that will make sure drivers can’t miss you on the road.
And it’s not just good-looking – it’s also very protective with its durable construction and EPS foam liner.
This helmet has everything cyclists need to ride in style without sacrificing safety! Plus, it comes in so many different colors that there’s one for everyone.
On the negative side, this helmet is super heavy, so we suggest using it mainly for commuting and shorter city rides.
14. Schwinn Bike Helmet
- MIPS Technology: No
Positives
- Most budget-friendly cycling helmet
- Available in many colors
Negatives
- No MIPS technology
- Not the highest quality overall
- Quite heavy
The Schwinn bike helmet is a budget-friendly option for cyclists looking for protection without breaking the bank.
It’s available in many colors, and it has an adjustable fit to make sure you’re comfortable on your ride.
This helmet does not have MIPS technology, so this isn’t the best choice for you if you want that extra safety feature. It also doesn’t offer the highest quality overall or lightweight design, but it will do the job at a low cost.
15. Scott Arx Plus (CPSC) Bike Helmet
- MIPS Technology: Yes
Positives
- Integrated MIPS technology
- Removable visor
- Excellent ventilation
- Customizable padding
- Great look
- Easy to adjust and find the perfect fit
Negatives
- A bit pricey
The Scott Arx Plus is a great bike helmet choice.
It’s got all the bells and whistles you could want in a helmet, like MIPS technology, removable visor, excellent ventilation, customizable padding, and more.
It also has a great look, and it’s easy to adjust and find the perfect fit.
On the downside, this helmet is a bit pricey.
CONCLUSION
There you have it! The Best Road Bike Helmet Under $100. We hope this article was helpful in your search for the best budget-friendly helmet.
We have put a lot of time and effort into researching and writing this article. If you found it helpful, please share it with your friends, community. We will be extremely grateful!
Frequently asked questions:
Safety: Needless to say, safety is the essential factor to consider when purchasing a bike helmet. All helmets sold and imported in the U.S. must meet the Consumer Product Safety Commission standards. We talked about this at the beginning of the article. Having the MIPS technology integrated into helmets is a good idea, but this is really up to you in the end.
Fit: The first thing to look for in a bike helmet is fit. Helmets should be snug but not too tight, and they should sit level on your head with no minimum rocking side to side or front to back. You can’t know for sure if a particular helmet fits you well before you try it on. If you plan to buy online, we recommend looking for a website with a good returns policy. Try your new helmet on, and if it does not fit well, send it back.
Sunglasses compatibility: When trying a helmet on, make sure to test if it is compatible with your glasses. Some helmets fit pretty low and are not compatible with some sunglasses.
Ventilation: Choose a helmet that has plenty of ventilation. Look at the number of vents and overall helmet construction to assess how good it is at keeping you cool in warmer temperatures.
Weight: You also need to consider the weight of a helmet. Especially on longer rides, the extra weight really makes a difference on your neck and head over time. So do take into account how much a helmet weighs.
Comfort: The next thing you need is comfort. Comfort is not a specific feature but a combination of multiple things. For example, the padding on a helmet is significant for comfort as well as ventilation, adjustable straps, and a rotational dial. Unfortunately, you can’t predict comfort, so get a helmet you like, try it on, and see how it feels. Send it back if you don’t like it.
Adjustments: You also want to make sure that you have the proper adjustments for a bike helmet. The straps should be adjustable to find a perfect fit a eliminate uncomfortable pressure on your head or neck. Also, look for a helmet with a rotational dial adjustment system. This dial usually allows you to make micro-adjustments and thus also improve the fit and comfort.
Look: The style and look of your helmet are also important. After all, you want to be safe and have a helmet that will last, but it also needs to look good!
Aerodynamics: This is another consideration you can take into account when looking for a bike helmet. It will improve your riding performance, but not as crucial if you are just getting started or taking short trips on the weekends.
Reflectivity: Another thing to look for is reflectivity. A bike helmet with a lot of reflective material will keep you safer when riding at night or early in the morning during low light conditions.
Crash replacement policy: You should also consider what a manufacturer or a retailer will do in case of an accident. For example, some manufacturers offer a crash replacement policy that allows you to replace your damaged helmet at a reduced cost or even for free. So make sure to check their policy before the purchase.
LED light compatibility: If you plan to cycle at night and especially in the city, it is a good idea to have extra rear light attached to your helmet. In these circumstances, we recommend you get a helmet that is compatible with an LED light. Most helmets are compatible by default but worth double-checking.
To find the right helmet size, you need to measure the circumference of your head. To do so, use a flexible measuring tape and place the end of it around your head where you would like to wear the helmet. The measurement is done from front to back, just above your ears.
Once you know your head’s circumference, you need to check the sizing guide of a helmet you are interested in. It is also a good idea to have some extra room when it comes to size if you want to wear a hat or a headband in winter. For example, if you are right on the border of different sizes, you might want to consider going for a slightly larger size.
Choosing a road bike helmet is not an easy task, and it’s hard to know without trying on the specific model. The best thing to do would be to look at the question above on “What to look for in a bike helmet?” and decide what are the most important features to you. Also, look at the list of budget bike helmets we narrowed down in this article. There are plenty of options in this list, and we are confident you will find one that suits your needs.
It depends on your needs and goals. If you want a budget helmet and are not planning to race, then the Specialized Align II MIPS Road Helmet is perfect. However, if speed is your top priority, then you are better off with going for a more expensive and aerodynamic helmet like Kask Utopia.
This is a difficult question to answer. Best bike helmet brands will be different depending on the person and their needs. For example, some people might prioritize safety more than weight or aerodynamics. These factors could also change over time as your priorities shift to make it even more complicated. Nevertheless, we like several helmet brands — for example, Giro, Smith, Specialized, Poc, and Kask.
There are many different types of sub-types of bike helmets. However, the three broad categories are:
- Road bike helmet: Best for long-distance riding, racing, and very high speeds.
- MTB bike helmet: Best for offroad biking such as mountain biking or cross country trails.
- Urban/commuting bike helmet: Best option if you’re not riding extreme terrain but want a safety precaution while cycling in traffic on paved roads.
Why should you trust us?
In order to feature and review any products on our website we do extensive research, read user feedback, carefully review forum threads, look at search trends, brand popularity, try to actually use and test as many products as possible ourselves, and evaluate other factors depending on the product category. By doing extensive research and incorporating it with our own experience we are able to shortlist only a handful of products out of thousands of options.
We want to bring value to our readers and help them find answers to questions and buy the most appropriate cycling products. Brands and cycling professionals always try to innovate and improve to get the best possible outcome. Unfortunately, innovations and product improvements these days result only in marginal gains, but the price increase for these gains is not equally proportional. In economics, this behavior is defined as “diminishing returns”. Knowing this we focus on featuring the best value for the money products that are affordable, but at the same time have a lot to offer. We don’t want our visitors to overspend on something they will not benefit from.
