The Stradivarius is one of the most expensive helmets you can buy, so what do you get for £150?
Not a lot of weight for a start. Met claims “the world's first bicycle helmet below 200 grams!” The medium tested was just over that, but not by much.
By using a new composite material called Ultima-Lite, Met has reduced the weight of the Stradivarius by 25 percent compared to previous models. Considering the low weight, the helmet feels extremely well made and tough. The in-moulded outer shell completely covers the helmet, even all the delicate underside edges. It's also finished in a hardwearing rubber-like coating that sheds off the scrapes.
There's not a lot to the helmet and what there is sits low on the head. Even the straps get the diet treatment, having been slimmed down using Kevlar thread. The Y-buckle and adjustment is really easy to use and the best on test.
Fit is tight for a medium and we can see people with big heads struggling to find their size. Vents are a bit smaller compared to race rivals but the helmet never felt stuffy. The Stradivarius is a true masterpiece and only gets marked down on price.