The Classics: TLD A1 & A2 Helmets Reviewed

Troy Lee Designs A1 & A2 Mountain Biking Helmets: Superior Protection and Style

Still have the same bike helmet you bought when you first started riding? With greater awareness of the long-term damaging effects of concussions, bike helmet design has improved industry wide: helmets are no longer designed just to prevent skull fractures. One improvement is Multi-directional Impact Protection System (MIPS), a revolutionary technology that lets the helmet slide relative to the head, adding more protection against rotational violence to the brain caused by angled impacts. Troy Lee Designs feels that MIPS is so important to prevent concussions that they no longer make helmets without it. Come into Start Haus in Truckee and check out our full line of bike helmets, including the A1 and A2 helmets by Troy Lee Design.

The Classic A1 by Troy Lee is an aggressive all-mountain half shell helmet that has been a mountain biking industry leader for more than a decade. Known for being the most comfortable helmet on the market, the A1 has a superior liner, providing protection and all day wear ability whatever the terrain. With its race-inspired design, the Troy Lee A1 features a distinctive style, with eye-catching modern design and graphics. The A1 features:

• Reinforced polycarbonate shell in-molded with the EPS liner extends down the sides and back of the head for maximum protection and durability
• MIPS brain protection system, reduces rotational forces to the brain
• Eight pressurized intake passages draw in cool air for maximum ventilation
• Eight rear vacuum vortex outlets help exhaust and draw heat from head
• Triple position adjustable retention system allows customized fit for various eyewear, head shape and riding styles
• Single piece, ultra plush, removable and washable comfort liner made of anti-microbial moisture wicking material for a dry, comfortable feel
• Full spectrum adjustable moto inspired visor with anodized aluminum hardware

The Troy Lee A2 is new for 2018, building on all the award-winning features of the A1 with added protection and improved ventilation. The A2 is the first helmet in its class to combine EPP (for slow speed impacts) and EPS (for high speed impacts), setting a new benchmark for mountain bike helmets and redefining mountain bike safety, style, comfort, and ventilation. The A2 features:

• Huge air intakes – 25% larger than A1 – connected to massive exhaust ports through deep internal channels provide powerful cooling efficiency
• Updated X-Static® pure silver comfort liner with more material for comfort delivers high performance odor protection and quick-dry moisture wicking
• MIPS brain protection system. reduces rotational forces to the brain
• Dual-density EPS co-molded with EPP for state-of-the-art impact energy management at low and high crash speeds, and everything in between
• 16% more EPS+EPP in the frontal lobe and raised EPS splines provide more protection in the common impact zones
• Aerospace filament-reinforced polycarbonate shell
• Break-away anodized aluminum visor screws
• Rear stabilizer fit system with flexible, slimline arms, including 3-position front and rear locations for a custom fit
• Expanded field of view works with both goggles and glasses
• Adjustable strap dividers for a perfect fit every time

Stop by Start Haus and talk to our bike experts and check out helmets and more biking gear to enhance your experience on the trails.