The 2015 Tour Down Under seemed to be the testing ground for several brands of aero helmets, including Bontrager’s potential entry into the market, Ballista.
Bontrager’s Ballista helmet features three large ports on the front side, channeling air inwards, with two trick looking, sculpted vents on top to allow air to flow through. On the rear of the helmet, you’ll find three exit ports, providing a nice flow of air front to rear, across one’s cranium.
You’ll have to pardon the quality of a few of these photos. They were snapped with a humble cell phone camera, as a soigneur impatiently looked on…
Inside the helmet, there is an adjustable retention system, and sufficient foam padding to keep things comfortable. A brow pad completes the padding package, to assist with keeping sweat out of your eyes. First appearances suggest it’s floating and may be able to accommodate their cycling-cap-style visor found on the lightweight Velocis.
The helmet features a smooth, glossy finish, with the shell extending to offer additional protection around the temple area. Unfortunately, we were unable to gather weight specifications on the helmet. Whether this helmet hits retail stores is another matter, but there were at least three Trek team riders donning them during the race.
Check out the Suomy and Giant helmets spotted at the race, too!
