Lazer Genesis LifeBEAM review

With an integrated heart rate sensor the Lazer Genesis LifeBEAM could be the answer for those that do not like wearing a chest strap

Cycling Weekly Verdict

A good quality helmet that uses innovative technology. However, is the integrated heart rate sensor worth the extra cost and weight penalty?

Reasons to buy
  • +

    Good fit

  • +

    Innovative technology

  • +

Reasons to avoid
  • -

    Fairly heavy

  • -

    Expensive

  • -

    Heart rate not detected if wearing a hat

Why you can trust Cycling Weekly Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

By Chris Hovenden
published

This innovative helmet is effectively a standard Lazer Genesis with an integrated heart rate sensor- meaning no need for a chest strap!

>>> Helmet buyer's guide

Lazer Genesis LifeBEAM 2

The LifeBEAM is charged via a USB connector and the unit at the rear transfers data to a cycling computer

>>> Lazer Z1 helmet review

The technology used in the helmet was originally developed by LifeBEAM to monitor the vital signs of pilots and astronauts. A sensor integrated into the headband at the front of the helmet detects your heart rate and the unit at the rear transmits data to a compatible cycling computer using ANT+ or Bluetooth.

Lazer Genesis Life Beam helmet (3)

Heart rate is detected from a sensor integrated in the headband

>>> Time trial helmet vs  Road helmet- which is faster?

The LifeBEAM is charged using a USB connector and I found the claimed 15 hours of battery life to be accurate. Set up and connecting the LifeBEAM to my cycling computer was straightforward and, importantly, it consistently gave recordings close to that of my chest strap. However, on occasion it briefly lost signal and the sensor doesn’t work if you wear a hat- which might be an issue on colder rides.

Lazer Genesis Life Beam helmet close up

The LifeBEAM is built upon a standard Lazer Genesis model

As with the Lazer Genesis, at its foundations the LifeBEAM is a good quality comfortable helmet. With 19 air vents the helmet kept me fairly cool (although I'd want better ventilation on the hottest days) and Lazer's RollSys fit system worked really well allowing me to adjust the fit of the helmet on the move.

Compared to the standard Genesis the LifeBEAM weighs 60g more and costs a significant additional £80.

Thank you for reading 10 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access

Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription

Join now for unlimited access

Try first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

Chris Hovenden
Latest News