Bontrager has expanded its helmet line with two new models that see the firm’s innovative WaveCel safety technology trickle down to a lower price point.
The new mountain and road models are also joined by the Jet WaveCel – the first kids’ helmet to debut the tech.
WaveCel was introduced by Trek and Bontrager in 2019 as an exclusive technology designed to be more effective than traditional foam helmets in protecting your head from injuries caused by certain cycling accidents.
Its distinctive collapsible cellular structure deforms in a way that works like a crumple zone, in order to minimise the forces that reach a rider’s head.
For a more detailed overview of the tech inside, plus how it compares with the likes of MIPS, see our previous coverage.
Bontrager Starvos WaveCel
The Starvos is pitched as a road helmet but is just as likely to appeal to gravel riders and commuters. It's priced to slot in below the £129.99 / $149.99 Specter WaveCel and flagship XXX road helmets.
Along with the aforementioned WaveCel tech, the Starvos WaveCel uses a convenient one-handed adjustment for height and circumference as well as dividers for easy adjustment.
This model scored a full five-star ranking in independent testing carried out by Virginia Tech.
- Sizes: Small (51–57cm), medium (54–60cm), large (58–63cm), x-large (60–66cm)
- Weight: TBC
- Colours: Black, white, fluoro yellow
- Price: £99.99 / $99.99
Bontrager Rally WaveCel
The Rally is an off-road helmet aimed at trail riders.
Its WaveCel equipped shell extends low down the head, offering coverage that used to be almost exclusively available on enduro helmets. There’s an adjustable visor and a single Boa adjuster to easily tune the fit with one hand.
It represents a significant cost saving over the £199.99 / $299.99 Bontrager Blaze WaveCel that predates it.
Like the Starvos, the Rally also scored a maximum rating of five stars during Virginia Tech’s independent tests.
- Sizes: Small (51–57cm), medium (54–60cm), large (58–63cm)
- Colours: Black, yellow/black, olive/orange, blue/grey
- Weight: TBC
- Price: £129.99 / $149.99
Crash replacement policy
The Starvos WaveCel and Rally WaveCel are backed by Bontrager's Crash Replacement Guarantee. That means if the helmet sustains an impact within the first year of ownership, Bontrager will replace it for free.
Bontrager Jet WaveCel
The Jet WaveCel is the first kids’ helmet to use WaveCel technology. Bontrager is keen to point out this new helmet meets ASTM standards, which use a smaller mass headform in tests that’s more realistic to those of younger riders.
Its Fidlock magnetic strap is quick and simple to use, while the fit is adjusted with a single dial at the rear of the head.
The soft, thick internal padding is removable and easy to clean, and there’s even a sticker kit included, so your child can safely customise their new lid.
- Sizes: Child (48–52cm) and youth (50–55cm)
- Colours: Black, white, red, green
- Weight: TBC
- Price: £69.99 / $99.99
