9/17/2011

Schwinn Intercept Adult Micro Bicycle Helmet (Adult) Review

Schwinn Intercept Adult Micro Bicycle Helmet (Adult)
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
My head is ~62cm around and finding a decent helmet is usually an epic struggle. (I usually shy away from one-size-fits-all because they almost never fit) I currently wear a Giro Eclipse (size XL) that costs 4 times more than this one and I have to say that with the proper adjustments, the Schwinn Intercept fits just as well.
The Intercept utilizes a fit-ring which basically encircles the head and has a dial in the back so you can adjust the tension. (The back of the ring should hold the helmet against the lower-rear of the head which prevents the helmet from tipping forwards) My main issue with the helmet is that the fasteners on the side-straps are not the usual locking clips, rather they are a rotating dial thingamajig that has an open/close position but doesn't actually lock. The result is that even in the closed position, you can still move the straps if you tug with moderate force. (Effectively, while the helmet is easy to adjust, the side straps most likely will not retain their position)
I bought the Schwinn Intercept on a whim because I found out at the last minute that there was a bike test-ride event over the weekend and I didn't have my usual helmet handy. After an intense day of both mountain/trail and road biking, I have to say that I'm pretty impressed. I found that the included visor worked pretty well and the helmet was comfortable and unobtrusive.
On the flip-side, I did get pretty hot and sweaty , and it wasn't a particularly hot day, so the 10 smallish vents left something to be desired. Also, I found that after taking the helmet off and putting it back on, I needed to fix the side-strap because it moved a little. (The side strap should make the Y-shape with the V part under the ear)
I can't say anything about crash-worthiness but it is notable that this helmet did receive recognition from Consumer Reports as being a Best Buy when it comes to safety. (It should be taken with a grain of salt as Consumer Reports only tests a handful of helmets)
Compared to my Giro Eclipse: The Eclipse (and pretty much any expensive helmet) uses in-mold construction which basically means that the foam and the outer shell are molded together in a single step. (versus having a bare foam helmet and gluing/taping the shell on afterwards as is the case with the Intercept) The in-mold processes effectively bonds the foam to the shell, creating a more durable and sturdy helmet that passes CPSC testing while using much less material. Thus, my Eclipse is much lighter and has 24 big vents and grooves inside for more airflow. Also, the straps and fasteners are much higher quality and they stay in place indefinitely.
Overall, it's a great helmet for the money. It's good to see higher-end features trickling their way down to mass-market products such as the fit-ring and adjustment dial.

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