Known best for their hard-wearing leather saddles, Brooks England has announced its re-entry into the world of helmets with the Island and Harrier models, for commuters and roadies respectively.
- Best bike helmets: a buyer's guide to help you find what's right for you
- Best road cycling helmets: 8 of our top picks
- A helmet with indicators and a brake light is nearing production
In the 1950s and '60s, the British saddle maker produced helmets under the name Lycett, but these helmets were actually moped helmets — with the bicycle helmet yet to be invented. It wasn't until a few years back that Brooks released a helmet in collaboration with Carrera, the JB foldable helmet.
Reminiscent of the Smith Overtake, the Harrier is Brooks’ proposed performance lid
Currently available on brand community site Triboom, Brooks is offering a limited pre-release on both lids to 300 people in order to collect rider feedback and make improvements ahead of the full commercial release in Spring 2017.
The pre-release versions of the Harrier and Island are matt black with a unique copper anodized rivet, and are limited to 150 pieces per design with each being numbered.
The Harrier is available CE tested for European riders and CPSP tested for North American riders. However, the Island is currently only available in Europe due to CPSP testing not completed yet for this market. There’s no word yet on any AUS/NZ versions.
As the helmets currently on offer are limited edition pre-release, Brooks says they are £10/US$13 more expensive than the recommended retail price.
The helmets will be shipped no later than early December and Brooks says it has plans to expand its line of helmets in the next couple of years.
Brooks Harrier performance helmet
Reminiscent of the Smith Overtake, the Harrier is Brooks’ proposed performance lid. With four large forward facing vents and three exhaust ports the Harrier has a sleek profile, and although slightly out of character for the brand, we can’t help but wonder if Brooks will be making claims about aerodynamics.
The Harrier also sees fixed strap dividers and a dial-based retention system. It's currently available in two sizes: Medium (52-58cm) and Large (59-62cm). The limited edition lid will set you back £160/US$210.
Brooks Island commuter helmet
The Island is Brooks’ commuter helmet and only sees one large vent at the front, internal channelling that begins under the brow of the helmet, and one exhaust port at the rear.
With a different dial-based retention system to the Harrier, the Island also sees adjustable strap dividers, and is available in two sizes: Medium (52-58cm) and Large (59-62cm). The limited edition helmet is priced at £160/US$155.