As riding season is ramping up in the Northern Hemisphere, you might find yourself looking for a new helmet. There are countless models out there for a wide range of prices, but the new Lazer Coyote Kineticore just might be the sweet spot.
The name gives it away, but the latest Coyote from Lazer is one of their Kineticore models. Instead of using a rotational impact mitigation system like MIPS, the Kineticore helmets feature “Controlled Crumple Zones” to help absorb the impact forces of both direct and rotational hits. The fact that the helmet crumples on impact by design means you certainly need to replace your helmet after a crash – but you should be doing that anyway. And if you are unlucky enough to crash and damage your helmet, Lazer offers a Crash Replacement Program that is good for 50% off a replacement helmet within 3 years.
Not only is the Lazer Coyote Kineticore 3% lighter than the Lazer Coyote MIPS, but it also gained a 5-star score from Virginia Tech whereas the MIPS version was rated 4-star.
For a $110 helmet, the Lazer Kineticore also offers a lot of premium features. The adjustable visor has three preset retention spots, and offers enough room for goggles underneath – there’s also a goggle strap recess out back. If you prefer sunglasses to goggles, there are recesses on the inside of the shell to make sure you have room for the earpieces underneath. A magnetic buckle makes operation easy with gloves or one hand, and the Lazer TurnSys dial system is easy to cinch down and offers multiple vertical adjustment positions. Even the padding feels more premium than the price tag would suggest.
Not included with the helmet are additional compatible accessories including a universal LED light for the back of the helmet, and even a Winter Kit that adds a soft fleece liner to keep your head and ears warm.
First Impressions
Since it was early in the season, most of my first rides with the Coyote were in cold weather at the pump track, or on the road. I wanted to wait until I got some warm weather testing before writing any kind of review, and fortunately, I got that while down in Texas. It was in the mid-80s, which isn’t Texas-hot, but it was hot for the conditions I am used to in early March.
I was quite pleased with the ventilation, with the 21 vents and internal channeling doing its job without complaints – and doing a better job than some more expensive helmets. Overall, the helmet is quite comfortable and seems to offer above-average sweat management to keep it from running into your eyes.
The frontal profile of the helmet around the visor looks a little bulky, but that’s about the only criticism I can come up with. The Coyote Kineticore is definitely one of the best $100-110 helmets I’ve tried.
Pricing & Availability
Offered in S, M, and L sizes, the Coyote Kineticore comes in six different colors. The helmet is available now from Lazer or Lazer dealers for $109.99.
