Schwinn Thrasher Adult Micro

Bottom Line

Riders on a strict budget or people wanting a helmet for occasional rides will appreciate the low price point of the Schwinn Thrasher Adult Micro without having to sacrifice on features. The Thrasher provides a lightweight and adjustable fit like more expensive helmets, but users must compromise on construction quality and style.

Performance

Well ventilated. The Schwinn Thrasher boasts 21 vents to keep riders' heads cool. The editors at Bike-Riding-Guide.com praise the Thrasher for being lightweight and comfortable, two of the reasons they gave it a four-star review. For a better fit under the vents, wearers can tighten the Thrasher using an adjustable dial system, which users generally liked. However, a few reviewers from Amazon mentioned problems with the fit system's durability. One user recommends spending extra time before the first use to set up the right fit.

The Schwinn Thrasher is made of foam and plastic, like the other helmets in this category, but this one is not in-molded so the shell and the liner can separate more easily if the bond of the glue between them weakens; this problem is mentioned by several Amazon users.

Comfort

Good for large and small heads alike. Users say the Schwinn Thrasher is a versatile helmet. Amazon reviewers report buying it for family members with different size heads; the helmet comfortably fits heads of a variety of shapes and sizes. As for straps, most report the straps are comfortable, though some dislike the chinstrap's placement and quality.

Ownership

Durability issues. While the Thrasher gets rave reviews for price and good reviews for performance and comfort, it receives mixed accolades from Amazon contributors for quality and durability. The helmet is designed to break apart on impact, "destroying itself to save [riders'] skulls and brains," describes one Amazon.com reviewer. However, some users attest the helmet begins to fall apart even before a crash; the visor from their helmet has detached unexpectedly, or the plastic shell came off the lining. One Amazon user reports the plastic protectors all have fallen off and need to be re-glued before the helmet can be used. Another user reports "warping" and guesses it's due to summer heat. Another rider called Schwinn to order a replacement part for the adjustment system after his fell out but was dissatisfied with the customer service he received.

Another concern is style; several owners feel that the helmet lacks in style and looks too bulky atop a rider's head.