Representative photo. Product photos and current options are on the Amazon listing.
The Express is Smith's entry into the commuter space, and it borrows plenty from its mountain helmets: extended rear coverage, large vents, MIPS, and an adjustable visor that stays out of the way when you are tucked behind the bars of a faster e-bike. It is one of the cooler-running urban helmets, which is a real advantage for Texas riders who still want coverage. The fit system and straps feel a notch more refined than budget helmets. It does not include a light mount out of the box, and eyewear storage channels are a nice touch for sunglasses wearers.
Current price and availability are shown on Amazon.
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Pros
Considerations
| Rotational protection | MIPS |
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Specifications are manufacturer-published figures or our own notes; confirm on the current listing before purchase.
Goes well with
Best for: Commuters riding before dawn or after dark · Replacing weak stock lights · Daytime visibility flashing
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The Annex is Bell's workhorse urban helmet: an in-mold shell with MIPS, a sliding vent shutter you can close on cold mornings, and an integrated rear light mount. It is not built to the newer e-bike-specific NTA 8776 standard, but for Class 1 and Class 2 riding at neighborhood speeds it covers what most commuters actually need. The fit dial has a wide range and the visor pops off if you prefer sunglasses. Expect it to sit toward the heavier side for its class because of the extra coverage at the back of the head.
Best for: Daily commuters on Class 1–2 e-bikes · Riders who want MIPS without a premium price · Cold-weather riders who like closable vents
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The Mode is one of the few helmets sold in the US that carries the Dutch NTA 8776 speed-pedelec rating on top of CPSC, which means it was tested at higher impact speeds and with more coverage around the temples and the back of the head. That makes it a sensible pick for Class 3 commuters who regularly ride at 25–28 mph. It uses MIPS, has an integrated rear light, and the styling is clean enough to wear around town. Ventilation is moderate. Specialized sells primarily through its dealers and website, so Amazon stock may be limited or third-party.
Best for: Class 3 commuters · Riders who want the highest available certification · Night riders who want a built-in taillight
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