As an avid city cyclist, I am quite picky about bicycle helmets For the past few years I have been using the Lumos Ultra MIPS, an excellent helmet

However, I recently acquired the new Abus GameChanger 20 road bike helmet

The name MindChanger might have been more appropriate for this Italian-made, ultralight cranium protector After almost 50 miles of riding, I have nothing but mostly positive impressions This is especially true with regard to comfort and design

Furthermore, for the time being, the Abus GameChanger 20 is my new helmet of choice There are five main reasons for this

Look, I don't need a racing-colored bike helmet at all, but here it is The Game Changer 20 is designed to be as lightweight and aerodynamic as possible to maximize speed and reduce drag

While Strava's riding times have barely improved, the Abus feels great Weighing in at only 275g, it is the lightest helmet we have reviewed so far for TG, comparable to the Giro Register MIPS (which is quite affordable)

There is no shortage of vents, including a grid of vents at the top and two rather large vents at the rear of the helmet, and ventilation and airflow are excellent I have yet to ride in hot weather with the GameChanger 20 on, but am looking forward to doing so

Like most modern bicycle helmets, this helmet has a small wheel on the back that can be used to adjust the tightness to your liking This mechanism is reliable and moves in small increments, so getting just the right fit is easy

Inside, sweat-absorbing pads are strategically placed everywhere the helmet comes in contact with the head The padding around the brow is also cushioned and comfortable

The Abus GameChanger 20 helmet features MIPS safety technology

Initially designed for motorcyclists, MIPS stands for Multi-directional Impact Protection System It rotates slightly upon impact, diverting energy away from the rider's head

Sometimes it's the little things that have the biggest impact, like the buckle on Game Changer 20 Instead of snapping into place like a typical buckle, both sides slide into place and lock with magnets Why is this great? Unlike more common options, this one doesn't snag on my beard hair

Two plastic loops can be deployed from inside the helmet to hold the glasses in place with the arms

Helmets come and go, but I'm sure this helmet will be a long-time favorite of mine My only complaint, at $230, it's not cheap Also, at this price, it could have had a removable visor But that would have detracted from the classy, aerodynamic Italian design