“Aero-schmero” and “laboratory ugly” are just a couple of phrases that I’ve used in the past to heap calumny on the whole aero-helmet segment. In fact, I attempted to review a helmet last season that epitomized the current market trend of making a helmet as aerodynamically “slippery” as possible, without regard for style or comfort.
In this particular case, the helmet featured a ridiculous sliding top-vent, which could be opened and closed by hand, that was so goofy and outright cheesy, it reminded me of some cheap, manual sunroof found on a 1970’s Chevy Vega.
Indeed, the design was so stupid and gimmicky, not to mention uncomfortable, the review never got underway, and the helmet was ultimately relegated to my basement, which has become kind of a “cycling purgatory” for gear that for one reason or another got sidelined over the years.
So, this raises the question, can anyone make a helmet that’s both comfortable and stylish, which also capitalizes on the virtues of aerodynamic efficiency? Yes, and the helmet that extols these qualities is the Limar 007 Superlight road helmet.
The 007 Superlight comprises what Limar calls a one-piece monoshell exterior, that’s fitted with the company’s Competition+ Fit System retention system (there’s also a small LED light which can be added), that ensures excellent fit via its micro-dial and height adjustment capabilities. In addition, there’s a clever magnetic buckle that makes securing the helmet quick and easy.
As far as ventilation is concerned, as one can glean from the images, the 007 Superlight features a smooth exterior with a minimum number of ventilation ports, with the most pronounced vent located at the front of the helmet just above the brow, which serves to funnel cool into the helmet, as well as channel it over the top of the head.
At 320g, the 007 Superlight is far from the lightest helmet in its category. Yet, it by no means feels heavy either. I chalk this up to the helmet’s comfortable fit and simple, straightforward adjustability, which is unencumbered by finicky dials and straps.
How does the 007 Superlight compare to more traditional helmets?
Well, aside from its distinctive minimalist appearance, if I didn’t know that it was designed specifically to “cheat the wind”, I’d say that it had a fit and feel that was on-par with most other high end helmets, offering plenty of comfort, ventilation and adjustability.
The only downside to the 007 Superlight, is Limar’s decision to make it a one-size fits all, wherein the helmet is offered in a universal 54-61cm size.
I’m not sure why Limar chose this, as there will certainly be a fair amount of cyclists who will fall outside of the spectrum, which further makes me wonder how the brand is able to accommodate a such a wide range of riders on the pro teams they sponsor? Perhaps, Limar offers more in the way of sizes for teams, but not for the consumer?
So how much faster is 007 Superlight when compared to other road helmets?
This where wind-tunnel testing and Computational Flow Dynamics come into play, both of which are well outside of my knowledge, and like most companies, Limar doesn’t provide this data.
I will simply say, the 007 Superlight both feels good and looks good, which for the serious “roadie” is the equivalent of going faster. 😉
Special thanks to Albabici, Limar’s official importer for the USA, for providing the 007 Superlight for review.
Albabici
Limar
You must be logged in to post a comment.
