Cannondale Cypher Aero

Cannondale's Cypher Aero is essentially its Cypher race helmet with an aero shell. It's a sleek and well-ventilated design that is light – and now aerodynamic too. Cannondale has stuck with its traditional look, a plus point in my book, rather than following the current trend of weird and wonderful aero designs.

Weighing in at just 240g without the aero shell, its light weight is probably the first thing you notice. Cannondale has used its 'Peak Protection technology', with dual-density EPS foam reducing weight while keeping rigidity high. Combine that with the wide distribution of internal padding, and it's easy to forget you have it on. Even with the shell on, 285g isn't exactly heavy.

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The shape and soft padding mean there are no annoying pressure points or itching. The micro-dial tension adjuster at the back makes for incredibly precise adjustment and a perfect fit. It needs minimal force and can easily be done on the move with just two fingers.

This is integrated into the Ergo-fit EVA pad with a three-position height adjustment system. It all makes for an incredibly comfortable fit with no worries about it shifting while riding.

The aero shell is a useful addition to the Cypher (which is available on its own for £99.99). The aerodynamic advantage means saved watts, although how many isn't stated, which will undoubtedly frustrate the data-savvy out there.

The livery of the shell matches the colour scheme of the helmet nicely, unlike the clear Lazer Z1 helmet shells. It's a simple solution, which overlaps with the front and top rear vent to sit snuggly in place while remaining easy to remove. Extra double-sided tape is provided in case you'd rather stick it down permanently.

The shell covers the prominent central vents, but allows airflow through the sides, which helps to keep your head cool. It is certainly hotter with the shell, but I found it useful on cold and wet morning commutes, keeping my head warm and dry, even if I had to deal with the social stigma of wearing an aero helmet on a bike path...

> Should you buy an aero helmet?

Without the shell attached, the Cypher helmet has great ventilation, with 32 vents to allow airflow around your head. This will help to keep your head cool even in the hottest of weather.

At a penny under £110, the Cypher Aero is in a similar market to the recently tested Giant Rivet and Bontrager Ballista aero helmets. To my mind, though, the versatility of a shell as opposed to a straight aero helmet adds far greater benefit. Possibly a better comparison is with the already mentioned Lazer Z1 – in which case the Cypher Aero seems like a bargain, seeming to be of very similar quality.

I've been impressed by the Cypher Aero, particularly the quality. The price tag, although fairly high for your average helmet, is very reasonable compared with most race-orientated designs. The added aero shell keeps the worst of the weather off while remaining – to my mind – a little more aesthetically pleasing than other brands. The savings in terms of effort can be debated, but there's nothing out there that I've worn with a better fit and adjustment for comfort.

Verdict

A light, comfortable helmet with the shell adding versatility