The big news at the trade shows last year for Giro was that along with Bell they had partnered with MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) to integrate the technology into their helmets. Up until that point, MIPS was still fairly limited in its implementation but with Giro and Bell going all in the number of MIPS equipped helmets is increasing rapidly.
As is often the case with such technologies, that also means the entry point to the protection is more affordable than ever. Case in point – the new Giro Dime Jr. and Quarter Adult helmets which will set you back just $60…
Offered as stand alone helmets to the current Quarter and Dime helmet lines, the MIPS versions use a similar low profile ABS shell with EPS liner that comes in 3 different sizes and 8 colors. Both helmets include a polyurethane bumper around the front of the shell to protect the EPS foam when the helmet is hung from the handlebar or thrown around the garage.
Sold in adult sizes in the Quarter or children’s sizing for the Dime, both helmets include Fit Kit Padding for sizing adjustments and 8 vents built into the shell. The biggest change is of course the MIPS liner which acts as a low friction layer to help disperse rotational energy in a crash. Both the standard Quarter and Dime retail for $40, while the MIPS version jumps only to $60 which is one of, if not the least expensive MIPS equipped helmet we know of.
Completely shifting gears, who is ready for Grinduro!? What is a Grinduro? According to Giro, it is a mix of gravel road riding and Enduro with the best of both worlds. The first Grinduro! is an event sponsored by both Giro and SRAM with all of the proceeds going to the Sierra Buttes Trail fund. Scheduled to take place in Quincy, CA, the ride will take place over 60 miles with 80-90 percent fire road, and over 8,000 feet of climbing. There will be four timed segments to test your fitness and your bike handling and a festival like atmosphere at the end. If the poster art by Jeff McFetridge is any indication, this should be a great time and will go down on 10/10/2015.
