Following the release of its open-faced MoDrop and Moventor QUIN helmets last year, ABUS has developed a new AirDrop full-face lid for DH or enduro riders. In addition to hosting ABUS’ optional crash-detecting QUIN sensor, the AirDrop includes other safety features like ActiCage shell reinforcement, collarbone protection, and Ambient Sound Channels. Beyond safety features, the helmet was designed to offer a solid fit and excellent ventilation.
The AirDrop is ABUS’ first full-face helmet, designed over the last few years with input from team riders Cedric Gracia, Richie Schley, and Gabriel Wibmer. The AirDrop is already on the European market, but it’s now available in North America.
ABUS AirDrop Construction and Features
The AirDrop builds upon common in-mold construction by adding ABUS’ ActiCage system, which is a structural cage integrated into the EPS layer. Since the ActiCage system adds strength, it allows for larger vents around the helmet. Inside that shell, you’ll find all models equipped with MIPS systems to reduce rotational forces in a crash.
The AirDrop also offers an uncommon feature: collarbone protection. ABUS has positioned EVA pads on the underside of the helmet’s face guard to soften the blow should you take a nasty spill and crunch the helmet against your collarbones.
To ensure a precise fit, ABUS has included its Zoom-Ace FF retention system to offer the adjustable fit of an open faced helmet in the full-face package. The AirDrop also comes with two thicknesses of cheek pads, which are removable and washable.
If you’re interested in smart technology like crash detection with SOS notifications, plus the ability to track a long list of ride metrics, ABUS’ QUIN sensor can be added to the AirDrop’s existing port on the back of the helmet. I recently tested the MoDrop QUIN helmet, so check out my review to see how the QUIN sensor and QUIN for ABUS app works.
To keep you cool, the AirDrop features 11 air inlets on the front and six outlet vents on the back. ABUS says the AirDrop’s ventilation is good enough that the helmet can comfortably be worn while climbing. ABUS also left open spaces around your ears that it calls Ambient Sound Channels, which allow you to hear the outside world and talk with your riding buddies easily.
The AirDrop’s height-adjustable visor includes breakaway bolts to further reduce rotational forces in a crash and has a POV camera mount. The helmet’s face opening provides a wide field of view, and ABUS says it’s compatible with a wide range of goggles.
The AirDrop comes in at an impressive weight, at just 790 g for S/M (52-58 cm), or 890 g for L/XL (58-62 cm). Installing a QUIN chip only adds 5 g to the helmet. The AirDrop is sold in four colors; Black/Gold, Concrete Grey/Green, Polar White, and Velvet Black. MSRP is $299.99, and the optional QUIN sensor sells for $69.99.
ABUS recently provided me with an AirDrop helmet for testing, so keep an eye on BikeRumor for a full review later this spring or summer.
