Over the course of several hours and a few dozen trail miles, I had little to say about the Deflectr RLS, which is precisely what you want in a bike helmet. In other words, when a bike helmet is well made, it’s something you should forget is there.
Other than the odd choice of strap (which, as I mentioned, I got over quickly), the only knock I have is how the Deflectr RLS is, as of this writing, only offered in one of two color options: matte black or metallic olive. While those are both cool and all, those of us who ride beneath the brutal southern sun know the value of a white or light-colored helmet.
The sample helmet I was sent came in a really interesting blocky black/white color combo that both looked cool and went a bit further in keeping the temps around my skull down. Here’s hoping there are more color options on the horizon. According to Canyon’s website, the massive vents at the top of the Deflectr, combined with the large intake and exhaust vents work in tandem to keep your head cool. Still, sometimes, in the dead of summer, white can be a rider’s best friend.
According to RLS, the Deflectr is just the first in what will soon be a line of bike, motorcycle, climbing, and even construction helmets. And at just $160, it’s significantly easier on the wallet than some of its contemporary high-end helmets, which can easily run into the $300 range.