Fizik Kyros Helmet Review
By Brandon Bilyeu
Hot!
- Quick and easy dial retention system
- Numerous fit adjustment options
- Comfortable
- Very effective cooling
- Sunglasses garage that actually works
- MIPS liner
Not!
- Not yet tested by Virginia Tech
- Side straps too short, plastic yoke does not sit below ears
Cost: $200
How obtained: review sample from company
Available: online, retail
Colors: White, Desert-Dove, Grey-Lavendar, Black
Website: Fizik Kyros
RBR Sponsor: no
Tested: 40+ hours
Sizing (head circumference in cm/inches): S (52-56/20.5-22), M (56-59/22-23), L (59-61/23-24)
The Fizik Kyros performs the helmet basics very well; namely comfort and protection. Comfort is obtained with multiple adjustment positions for the retention system, a reasonable 335-gram weight for a size Large (claimed and measured), and effective ventilation. Protection is comprised of a polycarbonate shell, an eps liner, a rear reflector that can be swapped out for a rear light (additional purchase), and MIPS’ Evolve Core. There is currently no Virginia Tech score for the Kyros, but it’s more expensive sibling the Kudos scored a reasonable four out of five stars.
I would describe the internal shape of the Kyros as a middle ground between oval and round, and as such it should fit well on most head shapes. To improve the fit versatility, Fizik uses their Crown-Fit Adjustment. You can choose between three anchor points for the retention system that best suits your head shape. In the left image below, the red anchor pins are in the forward most position, and the retention dial is tightened, allowing the side retention to pull inwards for oval heads. In the image on the right, the red anchor pins are in the rearward most position, and the retention dial is tightened, limiting the side retention travel inwards for round heads. I have an oval head and found the forward most pin location worked best for me.
The micro adjust retention dial at the rear has height adjustment to achieve the correct tilt of the helmet and fit under the occipital bone. Again, there are three anchor points that can be used to find the best fit. The below images show the highest (left) and lowest (right) set points for the occipital stabilizer.
With all fit adjustments set, putting the Kyros on is as simple as twisting the rear micro dial until it feels snug around your head. The dial is smooth in both directions and achieves a tight fit with little effort. The center of the occipital cage is open, which I suspect works ok with a ponytail. While not a featherweight helmet, the Kyros is quickly forgotten on the head.
Ventilation is very effective. I can feel air flowing over my head and I am noticeably less drippy in the Kyros. It’s a great feeling compared to a stuffy aero helmet. And it’s not just letting in air from the front. There is also great flow from cross winds, though strong cross winds tend to cause the MIPS liner to vibrate with a low buzz.
The plastic yokes that split the single under-chin strap into two straps that straddle the ears are fore/aft adjustable and do well to keep the straps centered over ears. But the ear straps are too short, not length adjustable, and cause the yoke to occupy the same space as the ear lobes. I had several people test the fit and it was the same for everyone. It’s annoying when you first put on the helmet, but you soon forgot about it and ride on.
Bottom Line
The Fizik Kyros is a high quality and well-designed helmet. It’s not a racing aero helmet, but an everyday companion that is comfortable and safe.
Brandon Bilyeu is an avid recreational roadie who lives in Regensburg, Germany. He’s a year-round bike commuter and is a mechanical design engineer by trade. Click to read Brandon’s full bio.
