We Put ABUS's New Convertible Helmet Through the Wringer on Enduro Rides

Robert Wilson · 2026-07-21

Two for one: open-face on the climbs, full-face on the descents. The ABUS Targon combines two helmets in one, making it a strong choice for riders who don't want to compromise. We put the latest addition to the ABUS range through its paces on long enduro rides and in the bike park to find out how it performs. ABUS outgrew their lock-maker reputation years ago, steadily building a credible presence in the helmet market. Alongside their existing full-face, lightweight full-face, and open-face models, the brand is now entering the convertible full-face category. The ABUS Targon promises true versatility thanks to its removable chin bar, which attaches to the open-face shell in a single motion using the mechanical Speedlatch system. With the chin bar fitted, the Targon meets the ASTM F1952-22 downhill helmet standard, including chin bar impact testing. That puts it among the few convertible helmets with full DH certification. ### Build Quality and First Impressions The Targon makes a strong first impression, with build quality that holds up to close inspection. Panel gaps, padding, and the chin bar mechanism all feel premium and well engineered, and throughout the test period we found no cause for concern. At 1.16 pounds (527 grams) in size L, the open-face configuration sits towards the heavier end of the spectrum. With the chin bar fitted, the helmet tips the scales at around 2.2 pounds (1,000 grams), which puts it firmly in the territory of dedicated full-face helmets such as the Sweet Protection Fixer 2Vi. By comparison, lightweight full-face helmets in our group test averaged around 1.83 pounds (830 grams). ### MIPS and Comfort Features MIPS has become standard fare at this price point, and the Targon is no exception. In the MIPS version, the ABUS Targon costs $349.99. Riders who place less value on it can crown their head with the new Targon, minus MIPS, for $299.99. Thanks to its wide range of adjustments, the helmet delivers a comfortable fit for every head shape. The pads in the chin bar adjust across three positions, and the Zoom Rapid Fit system goes further: a dial fine-tunes the helmet to your head shape with millimeter precision, and a press on the dial returns it to its starting position. Thanks to the patented Zoom Rapid Fit system, which can be adjusted in height, the fit can be fine-tuned with ease, even while wearing gloves. It's not just the chin bar padding that can be adjusted in three positions. The Vario Pads ensure a secure, locked-in fit. Click! The Fidlock buckle combines mechanical security with magnetic guidance, making it quick, intuitive, and completely reliable to fasten. ### Climb or Descend? The ABUS Targon Put to the Test With a head circumference of 23.2 inches (59 cm), we sat squarely in the middle of ABUS's recommended size L. After a quick adjustment, we found a fit comfortable enough to almost forget the helmet entirely, even on full-day rides. Its 15 ventilation ports delivered enough airflow to keep us cool in temperatures of around 86 degrees Fahrenheit, though ventilation naturally can't quite match a dedicated open-face helmet. The ABUS Targon doesn't feature adjustable helmet straps, though this is a consequence of the removable chin bar design and didn't prove to be an issue in practice. If you ride with goggles, there's plenty of room to stash them away securely underneath the visor when they're not in use. Prefer riding with glasses instead? The visor also provides a safe place to stash them. One particularly neat design feature is the integrated action camera mount, which is seamlessly built into the helmet and makes for an elegant solution. The chin bar is guided into position by a mechanical locating tab and is then securely locked in place using the Speedlatch system. The Targon attempts a difficult balancing act: airy enough for long climbs but protective enough for gnarly descents. After weeks of testing, we can say it pulls it off better than most. ### Key Specs at a Glance - **Weight (open-face):** 1.16 pounds (527 grams) in size L - **Weight (full-face):** 2.2 pounds (1,000 grams) in size L - **Price (MIPS version):** $349.99 - **Price (non-MIPS):** $299.99 - **Certification:** ASTM F1952-22 downhill standard with chin bar - **Ventilation:** 15 ports - **Buckle:** Fidlock magnetic ### The Bottom Line If you're an enduro rider who wants one helmet that does it all, the ABUS Targon is a solid bet. It's not the lightest convertible out there, but the full DH certification, premium build, and clever chin bar mechanism make it a compelling choice. Just keep in mind that ventilation won't match a dedicated open-face lid, and the straps are fixed. But for most riders, those are small trade-offs for the versatility you get.