If you go to Wal Mart with only a frew bucks in your pocket, you need not buy a bottom-rung helmet. You can get a well-made Bell with features that make it more comfortable and convenient.

For only around 15 dollars, the Bell Radar gives you the crash protection you buy the helmet for in the first place, plus two features that make it a bit more comfortable and easy to use than the cheapest helmets.

The first such feature is the visor. Many riders swear by them on hot sunny days, and many riders have paid much more than this to get a visor.

The second such feature is the rear strap positioning system. A plastic piece descends below the bottom of the helmet shell and holds the straps in place.

Bell is a long-term player in this business: they sold their first bicycle helmet in 1974, and they have been prominent in developing injury protection technology since long before that. The Bell Radar is certified to meet the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission standard, which is a good standard.

As is universal among helmets sold these days, the Radar has good ventilation. Some riders find that the combination of visor shade and ventilation is actually more comfortable than riding bareheaded on hot days.

Pros: Good injury protection certified by the CPSC, good cosmetics for the price, visor, rear strap positioning system, excellent value.
Cons: Takes time to adjust for proper fit. One size fits most, so if this helmet doesn't fit you, you'll have to shop elsewhere (and spend more).