Dutch professional sports team Visma-Lease a Bike has unveiled the Aerohead 2.0, a time trial cycling helmet that has sparked attention due to its unconventional design, reminiscent of the comedic sci-fi film Spaceballs.
Collaborating with American company Giro Sport Design, Visma-Lease a Bike is known for rigorous testing of innovations before implementation, and the Aerohead 2.0 is no exception.
“The appearance is totally different, it’s a new way of thinking about the aero helmet and we really think we have found a big improvement in our whole system in the TTs,” Visma-Lease a Bike said in a statement.
“It was incredible working for months on the Aerohead II with Visma to collect data and measurements, pushing the limits of what is possible for a time trial helmet,” said designer Ash Lewish.
This helmet, introduced during the Tirreno-Adriatico race’s first stage, boasts a significantly larger visor, wider wings, and an elongated front tip, aiming to enhance aerodynamics and visibility during head-down riding.
Despite garnering criticism for its outlandish appearance, Visma-Lease a Bike defends the Aerohead 2.0, emphasizing its aerodynamic advantages and heralding it as a significant improvement for time trial events.
Designer Ash Lewish highlights the months-long collaboration with Visma to optimize the helmet’s performance, pushing the boundaries of what’s achievable in time trial helmet design.
The Aerohead 2.0’s impact extends beyond mere aesthetics; its unveiling has prompted the International Cycling Union (UCI) to reassess regulations governing time trial helmet design and usage.
Visma-Lease a Bike asserts that their creation complies with UCI standards, but the attention it has attracted underscores the importance of equipment in time trial races, where even marginal gains can tip the scales in a team’s favor.
While Visma-Lease a Bike plans to utilize the Aerohead 2.0 in time trials throughout the season, its weight precludes its use during climbing sections. As time trials increasingly influence race outcomes alongside mountain stages, teams prioritize equipment optimization for these races.
The Aerohead 2.0 represents an innovative approach to enhancing performance in time trials, prompting a reassessment of regulatory frameworks within the sport.