Specialized has announced the release of its new Ambush 2 and Camber mountain bike helmets.
The Ambush 2 is an update to the Ambush, which features improved ventilation, fit and eyewear integration.
The Camber is a new addition to the brand’s trail mountain bike helmet range and features some of the same technology as the Ambush 2, but at a more affordable price point.
The new helmets will sit alongside the Gambit and Tactic 4 in the brand's overall range.
The Ambush 2 is priced at £150 / €195 / $180 / AU$280 and the Camber comes in at £70 / $80 / €85 / AU$120.
New Specialized Ambush 2
Specialized says that the Ambush 2 represents a "complete redesign from the buckle up with essential features for next-gen trail riding".
Visually, it strikes a notable departure from its predecessor with changes to the ventilation hole locations and shape, akin to the brand’s fourth-generation Tactic.
The brand says it has paid particular attention to the helmet’s ventilation properties, as well as its styling, fit and eyewear integration.
Safety first
The Ambush uses what Specialized describes as "strategically optimised dual-density EPS foam with an integrated MIPS SL lining and ANGi capability".
Specialized’s ANGi crash sensor can be mounted to the helmet and when it detects a crash, it can send an alert to a pre-programmed contact. It can be purchased separately from Specialized for £45.
Many helmet manufacturers use MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) as a means of providing additional safety. MIPS is a system that reduces the rotational forces on the brain against the skull in an impact. The Ambush 2, like its predecessor, uses MIPS-SL.
This variation is integrated within the helmet padding itself rather than the liner and provides 10 to 15mm of rotation in every direction. The result, Specialized says, is decreased weight, and increased ventilation and comfort.
The MIPS-SL system is currently exclusive to Specialized.
The Ambush 2 earned a Five Star Virginia Tech Helmet Rating, a widely recognised independent testing body.
Features
In addition to the MIPS-SL system, Specialized says it has further kept ventilation in mind on the new Ambush 2 with the "deep interior channels combined with a seamless, fixed visor". The brand says this generates "unprecedented airflow to help keep you cool on the rowdiest trails".
The Ambush 2 incorporates Specialized’s Integrated Fit system and adjustable Tri-Fix splitters, which the brand says create a highly customisable fit, as well as an unrestricted view of the trails. The fit of the helmet is adjusted via an index dial at the base on the rear of the helmet.
Finally, the Ambush 2 features storage for a pair of mountain bike sunglasses with hidden rubber flaps, as was also featured on the Tactic 4. The brand says they're designed to keep a secure rattle-free fit, should you wish to remove them when riding, as on a long climb or if it's getting dark. From our experience, this feature is best suited to glasses with straighter arms.
The helmet is reported to weigh approximately 360g in a size medium. The Ambush 2 is available in six colours and three sizes, from small to large.
New Specialized Camber
The Camber name has been resurrected, after previously being used for one of the brand’s trail mountain bikes. Now migrating to the helmet world, the Camber is a new addition to the trail range.
Like the Ambush 2, Specialized has again designed this helmet with comfort, style and ventilation in mind. It strikes a similar silhouette to the Ambush 2 with the placement of its vents and overall shape.
It is available in five sizes, from extra small to extra large, the extra small unlocking an option for children who have outgrown a child’s helmet.
The helmet is MIPS-equipped and ANGi-ready. Like the Ambush 2, the Camber earned a Five Star Virginia Tech Helmet Rating.
The Camber features a Headset SX-dial fit system, combined with adjustable Tri-Fix web splitters to adjust fit. There is a fixed integrated visor and Specialized says the design optimises airflow, as well as comfort.
The helmet is reported to weigh approximately 370g in a size medium and comes in seven colour options.
Availability
The helmets are available now. We have both the Ambush 2 and the Camber here at BikeRadar HQ, so look out for a review in the very near future.
