Low-Profile Lid: ‘Hyban’ Bike Helmet Review

The quest for passable aesthetics continues in the category of the bike helmet. We put the 2017 ABUS Hyban to the test for this review.

German brand ABUS is known for bike locks. But the company has a line of helmets, including the handsome Hyban. We reviewed it this summer for urban riding and the daily bike commute.

In short: The Hyban fits close and adjusts easily. It offers standard protection with the addition of a red LED light on the rear for nighttime rides. And maybe most importantly, it looks moderately less dorky than a lot of more technical helmets.

ABUS Hyban: Bike Helmet Review

The ABUS Hyban isn’t earth-changing in design, but it gives cyclists an option that mixes better with khakis than spandex. A muted “marsala red” draws attention to this helmet. And a stout visor balances out the “dome” effect some urban helmets can have.

But the removable visor is mostly for looks; it’s too small to block much sunlight or glare.

To gain a little style, the Hyban gives up a little performance. At 400 grams, it is heavier than the road helmets I usually wear. This isn’t an issue on short commutes, but the helmet will feel heavy at first for anyone who counts grams.

The company made the Hyban with a standard foam and an ABS hard cover. It meets basic safety requirements but is not upgraded with MIPS or other brain-protecting features.

At about $70, the ABUS Hyban is a fair deal. It has become a go-to for city rides.

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Bike Helmet Adjusts To Fit

The helmet comes in various sizes and adjusts to fit a range of heads. I wore the size medium, which fits heads 52 – 58cm.

My 12-year-old daughter was able to wear the same helmet. She cranked the twist-to-tighten adjustment on back to dial in the fit.

There are more than a dozen vents, and the helmet has adequate breathability. The padding inside is removable and washable.

The integrated LED rear light flashes red and gives increased visibility at night. I like that it’s built-in, so you can never forget a bike light.

Beyond city biking the Hyban can be used for BMX and skateboarding. Its look certainly fits into the style of those sports better than road helmets.

Try one on if you need a multifunctional hard hat that is passable whether you’re wearing a bike jersey or a business suit.