

Falconer Aero 2Vi Mips: why this amazing bike helmet doesn’t work for me
With its advanced safety design thanks to an outer shell with variable elasticity, a multi-piece EPS cushioning core and an integrated two-layer MIPS system, the Falconer Aero 2Vi Mips from Norwegian brand Sweet Protection really impresses. However, this top-of-the-line bike helmet, unfortunately, doesn’t fit my head.
If it weren’t for that protrusion on the back of my head, I’d have a new favourite piece of equipment. If only!
The bump I’m talking about is a small piece of my skull that sticks out a little. It’s no biggie – both literally and figuratively. Unfortunately, however, the twist lock on the Falconer Aero 2Vi Mips sits right on top of it. Or just above or below it. No matter which of the three possible positions I go for, the helmet starts to hurt after a while.
A pity, because I’m really impressed by all its cool features.

Sweet Protection Falconer Aero 2Vi Mips
For the design of this road and gravel helmet, the manufacturer has focussed on aerodynamics and speed. Hence the product name Falconer. The Norwegian company says it drew inspiration from the falcon, because it’s one of the fastest predators out there. In addition, Sweet Protection has also placed great emphasis on safety, as its company name suggests. In fact, the helmet with all its features exceeds EU, US and British bicycle safety standards.
Removable magnetic aero covers
My favourite aspect of the Falconer Aero 2Vi Mips from Sweet Protection is its removable, magnetic vent covers. Want maximum aerodynamics? Keep the covers on the helmet. Want maximum ventilation? Remove them.
Another well-designed feature is its wide opening above the twist lock, which is designed to accommodate a ponytail. A nice feature for all of you who wear the majority of your hair on your heads and not your faces (like me).
Additional features
- 5-star rating from Virginia Tech
- 2Vi technology platform for enhanced performance and comfort, featuring Mips Air for protection against rotational forces
- Weighs approx. 300 grammes (sizes M/L)
- Built-in height adjustment
- Designed for integration with Sweet Protection eyewear
- Easy eyewear storage (fits other brands too)
- Replaceable moisture-absorbing front pads


Magnetic Fidlock fastener: a small but elegant detail
There’s not all that much to report about the fastener. Except that, to me, little things like these make a big difference in terms of comfort. Opening and closing regular snap-on fasteners can sometimes be a bit of a faff. That’s not the case with the magnetic Fidlock one that opens and closes in a flash. In other words, once you go Fidlock, you don’t go back.
That’s why I also rely on Fidlock for my [magnetic water bottle holder and matching bottle] on my gravel bike(/s3/product/fidlock-bottle-590-bike-base-059-l-trinkflasche-thermosflasche-13482184).

The product I’m reviewing is in stock, and this is my honest opinion – not the manufacturer’s.
In a nutshell
It’s my head, not the helmet
I’d love to give Sweet Protection’s Falconer Aero 2Vi Mips 5+ stars. If only it weren’t for that cursed bump. But hey, that’s a me problem. Having said that, not one that’s caused issues with any other test helmet so far. That’s why I’m giving this one four stars.
Other than that, though, the helmet’s got a lot going for it, which makes it worth considering for anyone with a standard skull shape.
Pro
- High safety standards
- Improved aerodynamics
- Magnetic ventilation covers
- Magnetic Fidlock fastener
Contra
- Not compatible with my bumpy head
From radio journalist to product tester and storyteller, jogger to gravel bike novice and fitness enthusiast with barbells and dumbbells. I'm excited to see where the journey'll take me next.















