Canyon Excel Race Helmet

With styling, safety, weight and ventilation comparable with models twice the price, Canyon's Excel race helmet illustrates how far mid range lids have evolved, to the point where making distinctions between models is very difficult.

However, for all its good points the detailing and overall finish quality of our test sample was disappointing.

Canyon are a largely Internet based, straight to the consumer bike brand - you can find them in about 100 shops in the UK too, but they distribute direct which theoretically means savings get ploughed into better spec. Conformity to CE1078 and in mould construction are what you'd expect at this end of the market – the latter process simply means the foam liner is blown into the hard shell as it forms.

This has two major advantages. Firstly, it allows improved ventilation for less weight without compromising strength or protection, reducing production costs into the bargain. Twenty-four well-conceived vents and machine washable anti bacterial pads bode well for a hygienic and comfortable inner climate while the universal head-ring system affords a perfect fit in seconds. A marked lack of Scotchlite reflectives offended my sensibilities, but I'm pleased to report the head ring makes a very serviceable small to medium LED caddy.

Out on the road minor niggles quickly evaporated and I have been pleasantly surprised by the low weight and the constant cooling breeze whistling through my hair. Riders prone to ice-cream headaches could either wear a buff, or stretch cling film over the shell, providing some additional shower protection into the bargain. With an old school trade cap beneath, the Edge assumes the persona of a remarkably competent trail lid which is great news if you partake in a bit of 'cross or forest fun. Despite my misgivings, the shell finish hasn't deteriorated with the usual everyday carelessness, cleaning up like new given a once-over with a clean cloth.

Verdict

Lightweight, stylish and extremely comfortable helmet let down slghtly by finer detailing