Traditional lids just aren’t good enough to protect your head when riding an e-bike. E-bikes are finely tuned machines that almost travel twice as fast as the pedal bikes of yesteryear. A traditional urban e-bike helmet is rated to a far stricter standard and subjected to more rigorous tests, all in an effort to deem it safe for use.
So why would a traditional BMX helmet keep you safe in the age of eMTBs and gravel e-bikes? These bikes are heavier and more powerful than city e-bikes and can generate twice as much torque in certain cases. To best protect your head and face, we have broken down the best helmets designed specifically for use in eMTBs and electric gravel bikes.
While these helmets are also certified to the same NTA 8776 standard as our choices for city e-bikes, we are looking for a slightly bulkier build that, crucially, covers the back of your head. We are looking for a multi-directional impact protection system (MIPS) construction ideology to maximize protection from all directions. However, we’ll also accept regional certifications that match the Dutch NTA standard.
Option 1 - Giro Tyrant Spherical
Giro’s Tyrant Spherical Helmet costs $175, though it is usually on sale at least 25% off. This helmet is US CPSC-certified for riders aged 5 and over. This helmet weighs 600 grams and protects both your ears and the back of your head.
The cheek pad, which protects your ears too, also features ventilation to improve sweat management. Further, the hardshell is composed of two sections: a hard outer shell and a lower polycarbonate shell fused to the inner layer.
Option 2 - Fox Racing Speedframe Pro
Priced at $190, this helmet might cost you nearly 25% less thanks to regular discounts. The Speedframe Pro weighs between 355 and 415 grams, depending on the size you buy. Also, MIPS-constructed, this helmet is NTA 8776-certified. This helmet is also rated 5 stars by the Virginia Tech Bicycle Helmet Rating System.
Its magnetic locking system, combined with plenty of ventilation slots, makes it incredibly easy to use for long trail rides. The helmet also has a removable, washable hygiene lining to keep odors at bay.
Option 3 - Giro Manifest Spherical Helmet
Also from Giro, the Manifest costs $278 but is usually discounted by at least 25% and is available in 3 sizes. It is constructed in accordance with the CE EN 1078 standard and weighs 340 grams. This MIPS helmet redirects forces away from your skull in the event of an accident.
The helmet also has a visor you can screw in to keep your eyes and face dust-free on some trails.
Option 4 - Troy Lee Designs Flowline SE
Priced between $195 and $205, the Troy Lee Designs Flowline SE is also a MIPS helmet. It is also NTA 8776 certified. Further, it exceeds the CPSC 1203, CE EN 1078, and other regional standards. It weighs 375 grams and is one of the lightest picks here.
Furthermore, it has 14 ventilation slots to keep the sweat at bay. It also has an anti-microbial liner to keep the helmet as hygienic as possible. It also features an adjustable, removable visor and a magnetic locking system to keep it secure on your head. It also features dual-density EPS to redistribute low- and high-speed impacts.
Option 5 - Specialized S-Works Prevail 3
Priced at $299.99, the Specialized S-Works Prevail 3 personalized helmet is available in a range of sizes and colors. It weighs between 195 and 325 grams, depending on the size. The Prevail 3 is MIPS-built and CPSC- and EN 1078-safety-certified. It also features lightweight carbon fiber construction to boost durability without adding heft. This helmet is also adjustable in 3 different ways to boost comfort and personalize the fit.
Option 6 - POC Kortal Race MIPS MTB Helmet
The Kortal Race MIPS helmet costs $300 and is certified to NTA 8776 and CE EN 1078. It weighs between 380g and 470g, depending on the size you choose. Also a MIPS-built product, this premium option also features several ventilation points. It also has extended rear coverage to protect the back of your head and the base of your skull.
The helmet’s integrated NFC ID can store your blood type, allergies, and emergency contact details for easy access by first responders if the woprst happens while you're riding a trail. It also features a RECCO reflector to boost visibility on trails. It also has a removable visor to keep your eyes dust-free. It is also a breakaway visor that gets out of the way in case of an accident.
There you have it! These are our picks for the best-in-class eMTB and gravel riding helmets. Liked what you saw? Check out our guides on the best things to do and buy with a new e-bike. We also have detailed guides on bike safety systems, helmets, and accessories of all sorts.
If you want to learn more about micromobility, join us at one of our two annual live events; we'll have industry leaders, legislators & even a test track where you can try your hand at the latest tech.
Happy Riding!