The all-new Specialized Ambush 2 mountain bike helmet takes their trail lid up a few notches with tons of new safety and fit features to protect your head. Aimed at riders who go big, or those who just want extra protection and coverage, the Ambush 2 has all the bells and whistles.
Fit was a big part of the update efforts for the Ambush 2 helmet. Equipped with their Integrated Fit system, a rear dial snugs a padded band that runs 360º around your head along with the rear retention cradle. This provides a secure fit without pressure points.
The rear cradle is height adjustable, and combined with the Tri-Fix splitters on the straps, lets you get the position and fit just right, then not have to worry about it changing from ride to ride.
A set of eyewear channels provide ports for your sunglasses arms to slide in, with small rubber flaps to capture them so they won’t slide out by accident.
Inside are big channels that work with the big vents to channel air through the helmet, those combine with a nearly invisible application of rotational protection called MIPS SL.
For the Ambush 2, Specialized’s application of MIPS uses elastic brands to capture the padding, which are Velcro’d to the shell. This allows some stretch and slippage while adding very little weight and virtually no bulk. The brow padding has a slippery backside that lets it slide across the Integrated Fit system, too.
Altogether, it’s a very clever application that keeps the total helmet weight down to a respectable 360g (claimed, CPSC model, size medium). Pics coming soon in a full review.
The integrated, non-adjustable break-away visor sits high enough to fit most sunglasses underneath, and helps channel air into the helmet.
Deep coverage in the rear adds more lower cranium protection, and a dual-density EPS foam throughout helps soften impacts without reducing overall safety.
In fact, the Ambush 2 gets a five-star safety rating from Virginia Tech. Add on their (optional) ANGi crash sensor, pair it with your phone, and it can even alert your emergency contact should you wreck really hard.
The new Ambush 2 helmet comes in six colors (midnight blue shown from the side above this group image), available in Small, Medium, and Large sizing. Retail is $180 (€195 / £150 / $280AUD).
Specialized Camber Helmet
Borrowing most of the Ambush’s features, including ANGi capability, integrated visor, and versatile fit systems, the new Specialized Camber helmet works well beyond the trail. It even gets MIPS and a Five-Star safety rating from Virginia Tech.
Designed as an all-rounder that looks just as good on the city streets as the local singletrack, the Camber comes in five distinct shell sizes (XS/S/M/L/XL) to fit everyone from kids.
The new Camber gets a similar aesthetic as the Ambush, but with fewer vents and less aggressive look, making it a great option for urban adventures and commuting, too.
A more traditional retention mechanism joins the Tri-Fix chin strap system, which fits the straps around the ear and better holds position between adjustments.
The integrated visor breaks away on impact and is perfectly color matched to the shell, and also helps funnel air into the helmet for better ventilation.
The Camber comes in seven colors (White Sage/Deep Lake Metallic shown on girl riding). Average claimed weight is 370g (size medium, CPSC model). MSRP $80.
