This Helmet is a Gamechanger! Highbar Unveiled at Sea Otter Classic

I found out all about the new Highbar helmet retention system which was on display at Sea Otter Classic 2024, and tested its fit and function. It's easily one of the most interesting and potentially gamechanging products I've seen in a well. It will be interested to see how it is adopted
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[@leonchan4325]

For the sake of hygiene, the world needs this. Some people's helmet straps have more sweat salt in them than fabric.

[@aubreywhitley6889]

Yep! You gotta wash 'em occasionally,

[@iterin3126]

😂

[@mohammadtaufek5529]

yea… wash them after every ride !!!

[@kevinlewis390]

Lol, guilty!

[@marcdaniels9079]

Every ride !!!!

[@kevinlewis390]

Well, I suppose that's one way to end the sunglasses over or under the straps debate.

[@richiejames928]

Never in all my years of riding and wearing a bike helmet have I ever though the strap needed work…after watching this video. I am still convinced it doesn’t.

[@Jacob99174]

😂

[@davidlilja9180]

Yep, nobody ever wears a seatbelt or a helmet strap to the detriment of their own safety. Especially in the US where seatbelts have never needed to be fitted in 'interesting' places to encourage real people to want to live by using them, in-between school shootings that is.

[@gustafbostrom6669]

Hahaha 100% true. There might be a reason why it hasn't changed in 100 years.

[@jollyandwaylo]

There are lots of people riding with poorly fitting helmets. Won't be noticed until the helmet doesn't stay on during a crash. I like to see new ideas that might be useful.

[@IJustLikeBikes]

I hope they paid him well for this. On a point unrelated to safety, I already get a funny tan feom all the bike riding. I cant even imagine how hilarious I would look if I swapped for those thick things.

[@ericpmoss]

If that helmet really reduces wind noise, count me in.

[@Thegentlegoon]

I was sold at that point too

[@luukrutten1295]

I actually doubt it reduces it. Compared to loose straps maybe. Unless they designed it as a wind deflecting spoiler.

[@joystation1]

@@luukrutten1295 When riding, I can't hear what my riding buddies say unless I place a finger in front of my ear which makes wind noise disappear so I imagine the solid "straps" of this Highbar system work in a similar way to my finger.

[@rostuchicken]

Smart dude. Composed and well spoken. Look forward to checking this out IRL.

[@GCPerformance18]

I already look dumb as hell in a helmet. I couldn’t imagine myself in that

[@kevinbourke4038]

🎉let me guess, you're an American.

[@edrcozonoking]

The strap makes it look like those helmets they put on babies to form their skull.

[@EdZachary1]

helmet baby

[@MoreBoingPlox]

I think this an interesting idea. Straps are annoyingly finicky.

[@rasyidizulkifli2285]

Good idea on partnering with manufacturers, like boa showing up on helmets, shoes, saddle bags.

[@sebastienguindon2696]

I think it would look much nicer in black. It would look less dorky.

[@EdZachary1]

all white helmets look like Styrofoam egg cartons. super dorky

[@stizz19]

@@EdZachary1 I used to think that until i got a Specialized S-Works helmet last year. It doesn't look too bad, althoughI definitely would have preferred another colour but it was on sale.

[@ashleyhouse9690]

Glasses underneath the straps is going to upset a lot of pedants.

[@streighty]

I've never comprehended this whole nonsense. Once one has a bee in the helmet, and a quick take-off is needed, I would rather my glasses don't go flying. I've been running my glasses under my straps for years after this first happened. Whoever felt that the glasses should be on the outside can pound sand.

[@simonwarmer8777]

I didn’t realize I had a problem with my strap. Thanks for letting me know.

[@maxlloyd3740]

Could do the bottom part in black or clear which would improve the looks and make it less obvious. Looks well executed though! 👍

[@pouzivatellinuxu9262]

Someone mistook a cycling exhibition for a hockey exhibition.

[@RandyVictory420]

I'd like to try it. Basically looks like a refinement of the retention system helmets already use.

[@gc641]

Interesting helmet, would love to try it

[@Ody-up6kg]

Seems like a solution to a problem that does not exist.

[@ForeverDownByLaw]

Except the problem was described in detail in the beginning of the video.

[@andyhickmann2173]

If the pro peloton adopts this, people will be all over it once it becomes the norm. People just hate change but they’d get used to it if it truly is safer, keeps you cooler, and aero as he stated.

[@richcole3931]

tanlines are going to be wild

[@stuartpage5148]

That is the dorkiest thing since Canyon's double handlebar

[@stevent5050]

My very first thought was "Looks like an old-time chinstrap that catches drool."

[@owenanstey436]

I love the idea, am well fed up with the present system, with a constantly slipping and difficult to undo buckle, and roaring wind noise.

[@isidropedals]

and smelly straps

[@Mada_1337]

I have a huge head and often the retention straps cut in to my head below the ear. I would love a helmet like this.

[@randyhale4181]

I love the concept let's see where it goes.👍🏻

[@gmejlshede]

A bit odd looking, but very interesting idea. Helmet straps can be a deal breaker for me on an otherwise good helmet, so this will be interesting to try on.......

[@krzychjkx6311]

Robocop on a bike

[@lawrencefalk8714]

I was thinking Roman Centurion.

[@patrickmaher6420]

My last two helmets came with straps that I don’t like - been riding since the mid 80’s. I’m ready to try that!

[@mohomoho1]

Great idea, although maybe use cloth strap to Boa. Chin area should have some kind of absorption soft material. That area under the chin creates a lot of sweat and is sensitive. Looks like a football punters helmet from the 60's at first. Not every face shape is the same. Helmets are a tough area of cycling gear. I barely ever wear one except for mtn. biking. Old school Tom Ritchey. :)

[@zenfishbike]

Seems like a good improvement. I'd be interested when it's available on a helmet shape that accommodates the Da Brim sun visor for long days on tour.

[@kevinbourke4038]

Yes, I like the idea. Believe it will 'take off'- as disc brakes replaced rim brakes. It's progress.

[@kevindean9613]

I'm perfectly happy with the helmets I've had & they've saved my life several times .Good luck to them .

[@MattPrego]

My kids would love this they have a hard time pinching the clasp mechanism to get the helmet off and a hard time lining it up when getting it on.

[@Chunky246]

Just need the puck and stick....

[@william3k]

Rigid BOA™️ chin strap, gotcha.

[@madisonvillavert745]

This gamechanger is hilarious.

[@martyzee]

Keep in mind this is version 1. And not mandatory. Will be great for a majority of cyclists, kids especially. Not to mention helmet rentals where sanitising is an issue. And to any cyclists complaining that this will make you look bad. Think about that next time you stop for a coffee wearing wrap around sunnies that look Oakley Razor Blades, cleats that sound like tap shoes and unforgiving lycra kit that's covered with random logos and horrible colours. Trust me, no one will bat an eye.

[@imagistatheimagista1870]

Really stylish looking too.

[@hoser7706]

On it’s own it does look a bit odd but in full kit it shoukd look great. Cutting edge. Looked great with your training glasses on! And if it is making improvements in safety, ease of fit, wind noise and more, why not try it? We moved from toe clips to clipless, pros never wore helmets but now do and look better, laces to buckles to Boa knobs on shoes etc. Hope it works and is affordable for sll to try.

[@uriahkaufman7442]

Can they integrate the sunglasses with the strap so it all flips down at once? That would really help me.

[@JaredGant]

I wish it could be fabric from the hinge point down.

[@rayF4rio]

Interesting start, but not ready for the road cycling market yet. Best straps I've ridden - Kask.

[@johnpsyclex147]

Straps and the fabrics have evolved more often than the helmets, different almost every year. Current straps are extremely comfortable on all but a couple of high end lids. I definitely only want fabric there.

[@dperreno]

This looks like a great improvement and long overdue.

[@deedeecycles6018]

That is totally going to get in the way with sunglasses

[@seanmccuen6970]

u serious bro?? lolol

[@dperreno]

How so? I don't see it as being a problem. Unless you are thinking that someone would try and flip the chin strap up with their glasses still on?

[@Amir-cu4qp]

look at the thumbnail of the video

[@niklasbarreto22]

Would be great to see a helmet that reduces wind noise

[@simondavis697]

I wonder if vehicle manufacturers will adopt this technology instead of seatbelts! 😂

[@MrMars121]

Bob's your uncle!

[@dirtyoffroader2093]

The hangers makes it look like the 1982 Tron helmet 😂. Cool idea though.

[@robarena7564]

I would want to see the aero data. Possibly slim down the plastic straps and make them clear? Could get used to it if aero claims are real and bonus with less wind noise.

[@jcwms17]

Looks funny yes but like they said, once you get used to it it’s the new normal. I would enjoy not having the strap on my jaw; depending how recently I’ve trimmed my face it can be bothersome I agree

[@joystation1]

Not sure about the Gladiator look of the Highbar fitted helmet but it's growing on me.

[@chrisscott8362]

FUGLY helmet. I don’t think i like that. That a no for me.

[@mcgarvy7]

Where can I purchase

[@simonpeacock2288]

The tan lines are going to be awful!

[@doublejumpvideogames....]

Solid plastic brace around my neck, would could possibly go wrong...

[@Mockle07]

Yes, a ribbon of fabric not dissimilar to a rope… that’s got a much better safety record 👀

[@livingwithfshd]

looks like a hockey helmet. wouldn’t catch me in one of those

[@carlkoenigsmann1846]

Looks good, would be interested in making it my next helmet as long as it has MIPS system, don’t see it on Amazon yet.

[@Simon-Simon-Simon]

would be interesting if ROUBAIX RIDERS try a OCHAIN chainring

[@isidropedals]

The idea has merit, but there seems to be a divide in the comments. Some here find the current straps perfectly functional, while others experience issues like odour, difficulty cleaning, discomfort, and slippage. While the new system addresses these concerns, its design could be more aesthetically pleasing. In short, it's functional but lacks polish.

[@bowrinkle8408]

Where can I get one?

[@logojones96]

wonder if alpecin will switch from Abus to the canyon helmet

[@Chunky246]

They already use it in XCO

[@logojones96]

yeah I was thinking more about the road team/MVDP@@Chunky246

[@Chunky246]

@@logojones96 Unless they can show any marginal gain then maybe, or the marketing dept give them no choice. But I doubt they will tell MVDP what to do, he still wears the older version of the Gamechanger, not the new one.

[@logojones96]

true, I just think from a marketing perspective it would be weird to have a canyon team not running canyon helmets. If they want to make CFR helmets a competition for s-works helmets @@Chunky246

[@henrikwille8135]

I would like to know what the noise difference is to normal flat straps, as it is something I often are anoied about ?

[@cbseattle01]

I believe the solution does address real problems but does it introduce new ones? Top of mind for myself; would hard surface contacting soft skin on neck cause discomfort?

[@asebaninja]

I NEED a helmet that has low wind noise, its by far the most annoying thing about riding with a lid.

[@tiger2too18]

Could the strap be refitted ( snapped in place) if somehow the strap gets damaged but the head section is fine? Otherwise replacing the whole helmet is an expensive chin strap. How might it work on beards?

[@Thegentlegoon]

Only 28 comments in and a handful are about sunglasses. It’s scary how obvious the answer is but yet some people are still confused. Troubling.

[@davidrees1840]

There were bike helmets 100 years ago?!

[@oreoz]

Looks like shades need to go under. Product is flawed 😅 Kidding aside there are some cool advantages to this system. Getting it at a price that rivals regular straps might be hard 🤔 Only future will tell.

[@ianccrook8899]

Oh, will we see this in Australia?

[@ryanbrink9604]

Not sure of the rider, but someone was wearing one of these in black at the Fuego XL. Was taking a pic of Ted King and caught it in the background by accident.

[@erichortondesign8112]

It was Petr Vakoc. He has been riding it for a couple of months

[@miivii]

You can not wrap it around bike handlebar when you riding up the hill.

[@DarenC]

Gonna be tricky to get the arms of my sunglasses over those things

[@c.d.j300]

7:32 looks like they break from the norm and have them go under. 😅

[@Thegentlegoon]

Looks like sunglasses would go under

[@DarenC]

@@c.d.j300 unacceptable! 😂

[@c.d.j300]

@@DarenC It's MADNESS!

[@BrandonAquino-mu5fl]

How does the sunglasses fit over the straps?

[@davidarthur]

they say they are best to go underneath

[@bleigh6562]

Great video thanks🎉

[@gabrieljohannson6777]

If it’s comfortable across the chin and side of the head it will be awesome. What’s the cost? If it’s >$150 it’s madness and just feeds the growing divide in the cost of cycling for normal people.

[@richardmccaughey5928]

That doesn't look any "dorkier" than many of the helmets in the pro peloton. I'd like to see that retention system on an "airier". lower outer size helmet.

[@noamsolomonswise]

This looks good. Lots of people wear their buckle way too loose. This may help solve that

[@ketle369]

But is it carbon?

[@Dr.Schlitz]

Where do the arms of your glasses go?

[@davidarthur]

Underneath

[@twifosp1]

That sounds like a bad idea for a crash. The whole idea of sunglasses on the outside is so if you land on your face the sunglass arms don’t lever against the helmet strap and twist into your eyes.

[@johnschott3681]

I can't....I just can't....

[@buzzman4860]

Uhmmm. That is a no

[@NewPolishScientist]

Looks bizarre

[@SolarizeYourLife]

Yet nothing to be done about wind noise...

[@eightballsidepocket]

I would prefer to just unclip chin strap when I stop to eat, rest, etc., rather than fold it up in front of my brow. Fold it up over front of helmet and garaged sunglasses hold it, then we'll talk. 😉

[@elhior23]

I do appreciate my magnet buckle. This I do not need. Why would you ever need to adjust the front strap more then once? This is silly tech.

[@simondavis697]

Thank you for your pitch, this Dragon is out.

[@Ksen-pg7se]

But why?

[@ivangunaman]

Where to get these? Cant find any on internet. 😢

[@davidarthur]

not currently on sale but coming soon

[@samuel8590]

That strap is goofy and looks uncomfortable.

[@harrylook7810]

Dude knows how to talk about his product. Not a given.

[@terrycorkum]

Sign me up.

[@Stevenafoe]

Don’t think bob’s my uncle here..

[@JIMMYHIBBS1]

Don’t understand how it makes it safer if you can’t feel it when it’s on, nor does it touch you?!

[@krzychjkx6311]

Marketing magic maybe

[@JIMMYHIBBS1]

@@krzychjkx6311 surprise surprise it’s more aero …. Marketing BS

[@davidbee8178]

In my experience, any helmet that you can't feel when it actually IS on, simply means that it's pretty well a perfect fit - if you DID feel it ALL the time when riding, you'd end up not liking it due to hot spots or tightness etc. - as the presenter here says, there are a LOT of cyclists that do not wear their helmets properly and have ignored the instructions that come with every new helmet . . . I used to work in a bike shop and spent a good 10 or 15 minutes helping customers properly size their helmets and align the straps for a proper safe fit.

[@wordupcornflake]

looks crap

[@richiejames928]

I’m a bald headed gent. I done away with my helmet straps years ago. cut them off. I now secure my helmets directly to my bald head with a strip of 3m velcro. works great.

[@escamunicha4276]

With that hard material I think sweat might drip to the chin

[@ronm9357]

If you cannot manage to put on a helmet correctly, you might want to reconsider riding a bike. 🍻

[@JuergenHelmers]

Not compatible with people wearing glases by the look of it. Not sunglasses mind you, but corrective glasses.

[@erichortondesign8112]

Why do you say that?

[@albertosantangelo6872]

It was not stable at all on your head XD

[@richardstephenson5489]

I’d just not wear a helmet if this is the only option.

[@brainblasta2]

Looks uncomfortable for people with rounder shaped faces than these two.