The ABUS Targon Review: Is This Two-in-One Helmet the Ultimate Trail Companion?

Robert Wilson · 2026-07-21

Two helmets for the price of one? The ABUS Targon promises exactly that: an open-face helmet for the climbs that transforms into a full-face for the descents. It’s a strong choice for riders who don’t want to compromise on safety or comfort. 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. ### First Impressions: Build Quality That Inspires Confidence 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. 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. Throughout our test period, we found no cause for concern. At 1.16 pounds (527 grams) in size L for the open-face configuration, it sits towards the heavier end of the spectrum. With the chin bar fitted, the helmet tips the scales at around 2.2 pounds (1,007 grams), which puts it firmly in the territory of dedicated full-face helmets like the Sweet Protection Fixer 2Vi. By comparison, lightweight full-face helmets in our group test averaged around 1.83 pounds (830 grams). ### Fit and Comfort: Dialing It In MIPS has become standard at this price point, and the Targon is no exception. In the MIPS version, the ABUS Targon costs $379.99. Riders who place less value on it can crown their head with the new Targon, minus MIPS, for $324.99. 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. 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 (30 degrees Celsius), though ventilation naturally can’t quite match a dedicated open-face helmet. ### On the Trail: Climb and Descend 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 Verdict: A Versatile Performer The Targon attempts a difficult balancing act: being airy enough for long climbs while providing full-face protection on descents. It mostly succeeds. The chin bar is guided into position by a mechanical locating tab and is then securely locked in place using the Speedlatch system. This process is quick and intuitive, making it easy to switch between configurations on the fly. - **Pros:** Full DH certification, excellent build quality, comfortable fit, integrated camera mount, and easy chin bar removal. - **Cons:** Heavier than some competitors, ventilation not as good as dedicated open-face helmets, and non-adjustable straps. In the end, the ABUS Targon is a solid choice for riders who want one helmet that can handle everything from long climbs to aggressive descents. It’s not the lightest or the most ventilated, but it delivers where it counts: safety and versatility.