The new helmet was first spotted at the Tour Down Under (click to enlarge).
Just a day after Trek unveiled a new, more aero version of its Madone road bike, its component subsidiary Bontrager has launched the perfect helmet to go along with the wind cheating machine.
The Bontrager Ballista is designed to create less drag, but increase airflow, resulting in a time saving brain protector that's comfortable to wear. Vent configuration is three large openings at the front, six exhaust ports in the rear and two smooth vents on the top designed to streamline, not interrupt airflow.
Three large vents in the front of the helmet draw air in (click to enlarge).
Highlights include a front center channel with a distinct shape to draw in more air for increased cooling and comfort, internal, recessed channels to manage airflow through the helmet and over the head, Headmaster II one-handed fit system, NoSweat channeled pads to keeps sweat out of eyes, AgION fit pads that are moisture-wicking and antimicrobial, LockDown strap dividers, and NeoVisor compatibility.
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a_JwHLKa2r4
Development of the Ballista began with extensive computational fluid dynamics, which analyzed nearly two-dozen digital prototypes with varying shapes and vent configurations. Physical prototypes were also tested in the San Diego wind tunnel to confirm what the computers were saying. The helmet concepts were then tested on heated head forms with 36 thermal couples to assure that the new lid was fast - and cool.
Six large rear vents serve as exhaust ports (click to enlarge).
The helmet first appeared in the wild at the Tour Down Under in Australia and then on Jens Voigt when he broke the hour record. From there final refinements were made and now the Ballista has been released to the public. Color options include stealthy matte black, sleek and polished white, hard-to-miss high-vis, and the Trek Factory Racing team issue white. MSRP is $175.
For more information visit www.bontrager.com.
 |  |  |  |
 |  |  |  |
