Abus the German lock company is becoming a helmet company as well. But while the helmets have quickly expanded through Europe, their entry into the U.S. has taken a little longer. Last year at this time we were discussing the helmets’ entry into North America via Canada. Now it’s our turn. Well, this spring anyways. And only Abus’ commuter helmet range. ABUS ‘ North American Marketing and PR Manager Joan Hanscom points out that the helmet market is already very crowded so Abus is taking a cautious approach with something that is fairly unique. Their commuter range blends a number of smart features into a helmet that is the perfect companion for rides to the office or around town.
Just in time for their U.S. debut, the line is getting some fresh new colors as well…
At the entry point, the Abus Hyban is an interesting blend of a highly vented high impact ABS shell with a high end fit with Zoom Evo Easy adjustment. Meant to be durable enough to withstand being tossed around, locked to your bike, and daily abuse, the Hyban includes an integrated rear LED light. Now to be offered in a few new colors like lavender and turquoise, the $79.99 Hyban will also be available in the premium $99.99 Centium version. The Centium adds a brushed aluminum look finish and a removable leather visor instead of the plastic visor on the Hyban.
It also adds the Fidlock magnetic closure system on the chin strap which makes it a bit easier to put on.
Abus will also be bringing the Pedelec stateside which adds a lighter in-molded EPS lined shell which houses an integrated rain cover in a port at the rear. Equipped with the same LED light and Zoom Evo adjustment mechanism, the Pedelec will go for $129.99.
To go along with the Centium Helmet, the Bordo Centium lock (which we saw earlier at Interbike) will be available in April. One update – the Centium lock bracket which is an improvement over their other 6000 series brackets due to its ability to side load, will be available separately. This is good news for anyone who already owns a Bordo 6000-series lock and a bike with a small frame. Price on just the bracket itself is TBD, but the lock and bracket combo will sell for $149.99 in a fancy wooden box which turns out isn’t just for looks – Joan tells us the boxes are the result of a work program that provides adults with disabilities a chance to work and learn new skills.
