Specialised S-Works Evade 4 That includes BOA Match System FS2 ($350)
Sizes S/M/L
Weight: 320 grams in dimension medium
Professionals: New BOA Match System FS2 for preferrred match and micro changes, snug, aerodynamic, MIPS security, professional appears to be like/styling, sweat channeling
Cons: maybe a contact heavy on the dimensions (although does not likely really feel it on the pinnacle), costly
Introduction:
The Evade 4 is Specialised’s prime tier, professional degree “aero highway” helmet designed for Street, Gravel and XC Using, that includes the all new BOA Match System FS2, Mips Air Node Professional pads and elevated air flow.
That is the primary Specialised helmet I’ve worn for the reason that late 80’s after I had a mannequin (overlook the identify) that was only a styrofoam helmet with no shell (only a lycra/mesh cowl just like the Giro Prolight). As anticipated, the Evade 4 is a big leap ahead in security and expertise!
Model:
Magnificence is in fact within the eye of the beholder, however I believe this can be a sharp wanting helmet and is available in a number of enticing colorways. The form of the helmet is streamlined and aero wanting, with strategically positioned air flow ports, hanging a steadiness between aerodynamics and air flow.
Match/Options:
The Evade 4 options the BOA Match System FS2 that gives a dynamic 360 diploma micro adjustable, micro adjustable precision match with fewer stress factors (in my testing, I’ll say with confidence zero stress factors).
My head falls someplace between spherical and oval, maybe leaning a contact in the direction of oval, as I’ve had some rounder becoming helmets give me a headache being overly tight entrance to again.
The Evade 4 is the right form, not less than for my head, however past the form of the helmet, the FS2 does an incredible job dialing in what appears like a customized match, because the lace primarily based system uniformly wraps the pinnacle to steadiness pressure, scale back peak stress and stronger maintain. The FS2 dial delivers multi directional, micro adjustable precision match that has 40% finer adjustment decision than conventional match techniques with sub millimeter accuracy.
The place of the BOA FS2 dial is angled again (vs. the traditional vertical orientation of different dials), the place at first I assumed maybe one thing was bent or broken, however angling the dial again positions it to put on the again of your neck in a extra ergonomic means if you end up in a extra heads up basic.
Whereas I typically haven’t had any points with the standard vertical orientation, sure cradles for the adjustment dial have triggered me discomfort, however the newer angled design is notably extra snug and particularly when in a extra streamlined biking place.
Glasses storage is nice, very safe and quick access
Air flow:
The Evade 4 has impressively good air flow, not only for an aero highway helmet, however for any helmet, with very strategically positioned vents that channel the air over and round your head for a breezy feeling, whereas sustaining nice aerodynamics (claimed 2.4% enhance over the earlier model). The best way the vents are positioned, there is no such thing as a possible way for the solar to shine immediately in your head both, so, particularly within the white colorway, this helmet is total cooler than most.
The padding throughout the forehead is vented as effectively and does a outstanding job at channeling sweat, holding any dripping sweat out of your eyes.
Security:
The Evade 4 depends on the up to date MIPS Air Node Professional system, which gives added security in an influence which may be rotational, whereas nonetheless holding the helmet gentle, snug and never compromising air flow.
The Evade 4 will get a decent 4 / 5 ranking from Virginia Tech Helmet scores
Efficiency/Conclusions/Suggestions:
I’ve been taking a liking to aero helmets as of late, not only for the aerodynamic benefit (I’m simply not quick sufficient any extra for it to actually make any distinction), however I should not have a lot hair and I dwell in Colorado, the place the solar may be very intense at altitude. I’m appreciating increasingly more having remarkably good solar protection on my head, with minimal compromise in air circulation and the Evade 4 actually nails this.
The Evade 4 is among the many most snug and finest becoming helmets in the marketplace, a lot of that because of the BOA Match System FS2, that may be a premium addition to the helmet with no compromises.
Air flow is improved, aerodynamics are improved, security scores are respectable,
Specialised cuts no corners and gives the best degree, highest performing aero highway helmet. I might suggest the Evade 4 for almost any using, from racing on the highest ranges within the professional ranks, be it highway, gravel or mountain, to leisure using at any tempo.
Comparisons:
Giro Eclipse Professional (Evaluate): In all probability the closest comparability, the Giro is similar value, however weighs 42 grams much less and has a better security ranking. The Evade has barely higher air flow and the brand new BOA FS2 gives a extra premium match. The Evade, whereas modern and streamlined, has a little bit of a again finish, whereas the Eclipse is extra compact and tidily designed.
Kask Utopia Y (Evaluate): The Utopia (assessment upcoming) is lighter by 42 grams, is $50 cheaper and has comparable devoted aero appears to be like/design. Whereas the Utopia is an incredible helmet with wonderful consolation, match and efficiency, the Evade is extra fashionable, polished and updated, with superior match because of the BOA FS2 system, extra sweat resistant padding and streamlined straps.
Jeff Valliere has been round bikes his total life, as a toddler following his dad to bike races and bike retailers, BMX racing as a child, working in bike retailers as a mechanic for 14+ years (10 at U-Bikes in Boulder the place he met John Tribbia fellow RoadTrailRide and RoadTrailRun contributor). Jeff additionally raced as knowledgeable highway bicycle owner for a number of years. Jeff now not races, however nonetheless likes to experience as he introduces his daughters to the fun of biking. Along with being obsessive about biking, he runs mountains every day and has been reviewing trainers/gear/tech for RoadTrailRun since 2015 and for different publications/corporations since 2005.
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