Specialized
Dissident 2
The Dissident 2 helmet from Specialized is a top choice for downhill mountain bike racing, offering a modern and aesthetically pleasing design that meets the highest demands of riders. This collaboration with powerhouse athletes Loïc Bruni and Finn Iles ensures a helmet that provides confidence, a personalized fit, and excellent breathability. One standout feature of the Dissident 2 is its lightweight construction. Specialized has strategically placed five EPS foam inserts inside the helmet, allowing for higher and lower density foams in specific areas. This design not only keeps the helmet light but also provides optimal energy management. Safety is a priority with the Dissident 2, as evidenced by its ASTM F1952-15 DH certification. The helmet incorporates a MIPS Evolve liner, which helps reduce potential impacts to the head. Riders can feel confident knowing that they have superior protection while tackling challenging downhill trails. Ventilation is also a strong point of the Dissident 2. The helmet features an optimized ventilation system, ensuring that riders stay cool even during intense rides. The improved ventilation not only enhances comfort but also helps prevent overheating on hot days. While the Dissident 2 offers many desirable features, there are a few drawbacks to consider. Some users have reported a shallow fit and issues with the goggle strap placement, which may be a concern for those with specific preferences. Additionally, the MIPS liner has been known to creak in some instances. It's worth noting that the Dissident 2 is also missing the Magnetic chin strap buckle and ANGi crash alert sensor found in the previous model. In terms of price, the Dissident 2 is on the higher end at $500 USD. However, considering its superior safety features and collaboration with professional athletes, the cost is justified for riders who prioritize protection and performance. Overall, the Dissident 2 helmet from Specialized is an excellent choice for downhill mountain bike racing. Its lightweight design, personalized fit, and enhanced protection make it a top contender in the market. Riders can enjoy the benefits of improved ventilation and the peace of mind that comes with an ASTM certification. Despite a few minor drawbacks, the Dissident 2 remains a reliable and stylish option for riders who demand the best in performance and safety.
Rating
Basics
Use Cases
10 Reasons to Buy the Dissident 2
- Modern and aesthetically pleasing design
- Lightweight
- Good ventilation
- Personal fit
- Great safety with ASTM certification
- Improved ventilation and increased protection
- Strategically placed EPS foam inserts
- Mips Evolve Solution to reduce potential impact
- Optimized ventilation system
- Compatible ride tracking and accident detection features
5 Reasons Not to Buy the Dissident 2
- Shallow fit and goggle strap placement may be an issue for some
- Expensive at $500 USD
- Some reported creaking in the MIPS liner
- Lacks Magnetic chin strap buckle and ANGi crash alert sensor
- Pricey at around 360 euros
Bottom Line
The Dissident 2 is a cutting-edge and stylish helmet that offers a comfortable and personalized fit. With its lightweight design and strategically placed EPS foam inserts, it provides excellent ventilation and increased protection. The inclusion of the Mips Evolve Solution reduces potential impact, ensuring your safety on the road. Additionally, its compatibility with ride tracking and accident detection features adds an extra layer of security. While it may be on the pricey side, the Dissident 2 is well worth the investment for those seeking a top-notch helmet that combines both style and safety.