HJC Atara Road Cycling Helmet

Tell us what the product is for and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it?

The HJC ATARA is a road helmet designed for beginners and everyday cyclists. Although realistically, any road rider would find it more than comfortable.

HJC claims the ATARA 'benefits from all the technical development of [its premium] models... the IBEX 2.0 and Furion 2.0" resulting in an aerodynamic and comfortable helmet with a perfect fit. Plus it is "light in weight, easy to adjust to your head size and makes no compromise on security."

On first appearance and certainly after my first ride, it certainly feels like HJC nailed its description of the ATARA. It's comfortable to wear thanks to its easy adjustability, weighs next to nothing meaning you often forget you're wearing a helmet, and, when out riding, wind noise seems almost non-existent which is a testament to its aerodynamic design. If anything, HJC appears to undersell its product - most road riders I'm sure would be more than happy to wear it, whether they're commuting or partaking in a gran fondo.

This is what HJC says, in full:

"The HJC Atara Road Cycling Helmet is an entry-level helmet suited to everyday riding. Drawing directly on the technically progressive design utilised in HJC's top-of-the-line helmets, the Atara is at once lightweight, super comfortable and crucially, protective.

If you're looking to feel the benefits of a beautifully crafted HJC helmet at a lower price point than with flagship models such as the Ibex 2.0 or Furion 2.0, then the Atara will be a solid investment for you.

As with all HJC helmets, the Atara has been developed and refined in HJC's bespoke wind tunnel facility. You can be confident that every detail of its construction is the result of a singular drive for superior aerodynamics, ventilation and protection, which will mean greater enjoyment, performance potential and lasting safety for you on every ride.

If you're looking for a stalwart, stylish helmet that'll perform just how you need it to, day in, day out, then this is a great choice. The Atara is available in a range of timeless block colours and with removable, replaceable and washable inner padding."

Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?

From Saddleback, HJC's UK distributor:

Weighs only 210g (+/-10).

Developed in HJC's bespoke wind tunnel facility.

Sleek and elegant construction.

Aerodynamic and well-ventilated.

Unisex, universal fit.

High-quality construction. The in-mould design ensures a seamless blend between the EPS and shell. All parts feel like they're made of high-quality materials.

Lack of wind noise was incredible and testament to the Atara's design. Ventilation was okay, if a bit underwhelming compared to HJC's claims – it certainly kept the scalp/head dry but could have been cooler.

The finishing of the Atara doesn't feel cheap and the parts have withstood a few months testing without issue.

There are lighter lids, but it's up there, tipping the scales at just 214g (below the manufacturer's advised 220g).

Sizing is spot on for me, and the Atara sat comfortably on my head. Its lightweight design helps, but while the three X-Static Pads absorb vibration and wick sweat away, I think it would benefit from two more X-Static pads along the sides of the head (in line with other similarly styled helmets).

It lacks the extra safety tech of others at this price, though its lightweight design compensates for it somewhat.

Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose

Lightweight and comfortable over medium-long rides (50-75km) – at times I forgot I was wearing it. I would have liked more ventilation – I felt warm on occasions although my scalp/head did remain dry throughout.

Tell us what you particularly liked about the product

It's light, comfortable and easy to wear. The adjustment is spot on and its seamless construction looks the business.

Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product

Ventilation could be improved. HJC claims the Atara benefits from the technical development of the Ibex 2.0 and Furion 2.0, but it has half the ventilation of those.

How does the price compare to that of similar products in the market, including ones recently tested on road.cc?

It's slightly expensive considering you can buy comparable helmets with additional safety tech, such as the Specialized Echelon II MIPS for just £5 more.

Lazer's Strada KinetiCore Helmet is a little more – £90 – but comes with Lazer's answer to Mips.

Hollis recently reviewed the £45 Specialized Align II helmet and spoke glowingly of it. Although the Align II may have more of an all-round design, it's still an attractive option to road riders, albeit on the weighty side.

Use this box to explain your overall score

I'd definitely recommend the Atara, and would be more than glad to receive it as a gift, however, I wouldn't go out and buy one. Although I'm a fan, and certainly think it's suited to commuting and general road riding, there are similar spec helmets featuring Mips (or similar safety equipment) as standard at this price point. Yes, they might not be as light as the Atara, but you can't put a price on safety!