Since last year, the Catlike R+D team has been collaborating with researchers from the University of Granada to study the performance of cycling helmet shapes using different materials in the wind tunnel located in CEAMA (Centro Andaluz de Medio Ambiente, Spain).

The main variables of Wind Tunnel tests are aerodynamics and ventilation. Catlike collects this data and uses it to develop new helmets. RAPID, is our latest helmet that offers excellent performance and supreme aerodynamics without losing ventilation.

T.T. helmets with a long teardrop shaped tail are very aerodynamic in ideal conditions where a rider is able to keep their head straight and looking up at all times during a race. But once a rider looks down or to the side, the long tail sticks out into the air and creates a lot of drag. Recent research suggests that the best design for a T.T. helmet where the rider moves their head, a lot is a shorter, more rounded tail that is aerodynamic in all conditions, not just when the rider’s head is up. This is exactly what the RAPID helmet is designed for: maximum aerodynamics in real world conditions.

RAPID helmet includes three points of ventilation strategically placed in order to guarantee airflow without compromising aerodynamics. That is what we call "TRI VENTILATION". The first point is in the frontal area of the helmet: two air above the forehead and another two in rear part. This is linked by an internal air-channel guaranteeing a continuous air flow in the upper area of the head where heat accumulates At the same time the frontal design of the air vents do not compromise the aerodynamics of the helmet. These four holes create constant air flow that allows cooling the temperature around the head.

The second and third ventilation points are located in the lateral parts of the RAPID, where the air flows because of the openings created in the visor and in the lateral areas of the helmet. The ears act as temperature sensors so these two constant air channels are essential for the riders to keep them fresh.

The innovative retention system MPS (Multi-Position-System) allows optimizing the comfort of the helmet thanks to its 4 point adjustment system; designed to adapt to any head size.