Bike helmet manufacturers have been thrown right into a hunt for extra info after the UCI dominated to ban using sure lids in bunch highway race occasions.
On Thursday, biking’s governing physique introduced a raft of updates in a bid to enhance rider security. Among the many measures have been new specs on helmets, which can come into place from 1 January 2026, and embrace: “minimal air flow necessities, a ban on helmet shells or equipment overlaying or obstructing the riders’ ears, and a ban on built-in or removable visors”.
The use of time trial helmets has develop into extra widespread in highway racing in recent times as riders search for aerodynamic positive aspects. The UCI’s new specs look to “include aerodynamics” and supply “a foundation for distinctions between helmets utilized in completely different disciplines”.
Worn by Ben Healy when he received a stage of the Tour de France this summer season, the helmet is alleged to “provid[e] riders with a wider subject of view and reduc[e] wind noise across the ear improv[ing] consciousness and communication.”
“The UCI press launch from as we speak doesn’t go into specifics, e.g. the definition of minimal air flow, and we are going to look to make clear and talk about these particulars with the UCI to assist make sure that any new laws help their goal to enhance security,” a POC spokesperson mentioned.
KASK’s Nirvana helmet covers the tops of riders’ ears.
(Picture credit score: Ineos)
KASK’s Nirvana helmet, launched final 12 months and worn by Ineos Grenadiers, is one other mannequin that might be outlawed underneath the UCI’s ban on helmets that cowl or hinder riders’ ears.
A spokesperson from KASK offered a brief assertion, saying the model is “conscious of the latest updates to UCI laws” and “actively reviewing the implications for our product line”.
Biking Weekly additionally obtained a reply from Giro, Visma-Lease a Bike’s helmet sponsor, whose time-trial-intended Aerohead lid has been worn in highway races by riders comparable to Marianne Vos, Victor Campenaerts and Matthew Brennan.
5 out of six of Visma-Lease a Bike’s squad wore the Aerohead time trial helmet at San Remo Girls this 12 months.
(Picture credit score: Getty Pictures)
Because the mannequin incorporates no air vents within the helmet shell, Biking Weekly understands it should doubtless be outlawed.
“Giro can’t touch upon how Group Visma-Lease a Bike might adapt ought to UCI tips change relating to the Aerohead or different shielded time trial helmets,” a model spokesperson mentioned.
“What we will affirm is our ongoing dedication to innovation and to offering the staff with helmets that ship aerodynamic benefits whereas remaining totally compliant with UCI laws,.”
The Giro spokesperson went on so as to add that Visma-Lease a Bike riders will rely “closely” subsequent season on the newly launched Eclipse Professional mannequin, which is compliant with the brand new UCI guidelines.
The governing physique additionally introduced new laws on handlebar width, UCI factors tallying throughout disciplines, and value caps for observe biking gear. Learn the remainder of the important thing updates from the checklist on our web site right here.
