As an avid city cyclist, I am quite picky about bicycle helmets. For the past few years I have been using the Lumos Ultra MIPS, an excellent helmet.

However, I recently acquired the new Abus GameChanger 2.0 road bike helmet.

The name MindChanger might have been more appropriate for this Italian-made, ultralight cranium protector. After almost 50 miles of riding, I have nothing but mostly positive impressions. This is especially true with regard to comfort and design.

Furthermore, for the time being, the Abus GameChanger 2.0 is my new helmet of choice. There are five main reasons for this.

Look, I don't need a racing-colored bike helmet at all, but here it is. The Game Changer 2.0 is designed to be as lightweight and aerodynamic as possible to maximize speed and reduce drag.

While Strava's riding times have barely improved, the Abus feels great. Weighing in at only 275g, it is the lightest helmet we have reviewed so far for TG, comparable to the Giro Register MIPS (which is quite affordable).

There is no shortage of vents, including a grid of vents at the top and two rather large vents at the rear of the helmet, and ventilation and airflow are excellent. I have yet to ride in hot weather with the GameChanger 2.0 on, but am looking forward to doing so.

Like most modern bicycle helmets, this helmet has a small wheel on the back that can be used to adjust the tightness to your liking. This mechanism is reliable and moves in small increments, so getting just the right fit is easy.

Inside, sweat-absorbing pads are strategically placed everywhere the helmet comes in contact with the head. The padding around the brow is also cushioned and comfortable.

The Abus GameChanger 2.0 helmet features MIPS safety technology.

Initially designed for motorcyclists, MIPS stands for Multi-directional Impact Protection System. It rotates slightly upon impact, diverting energy away from the rider's head.

Sometimes it's the little things that have the biggest impact, like the buckle on Game Changer 2.0. Instead of snapping into place like a typical buckle, both sides slide into place and lock with magnets. Why is this great? Unlike more common options, this one doesn't snag on my beard hair.

Two plastic loops can be deployed from inside the helmet to hold the glasses in place with the arms.

Helmets come and go, but I'm sure this helmet will be a long-time favorite of mine. My only complaint, at $230, it's not cheap. Also, at this price, it could have had a removable visor. But that would have detracted from the classy, aerodynamic Italian design.