Lotto-Belisol unveiled a new Lazer helmet for the prologue of the 2012 Tour de France. Lazer call the new aerodynamic helmet Wasp, for Watt Saving Performance.
The Wasp helmet incorporates Lazer "Dual Layer Aerodynamics," which employ a "trip wire" on the top of the helmet to create a boundary layer of small air vortices on the tail of the helmet. By creating these small areas of turbulence, Lazer say they in turn prevent larger vortices, which can create more drag and negatively affect aerodynamic performance.
The tail section of the Wasp helmet is also designed to keep the gap between the tail and the riders back to an absolute minimum, further increasing aerodynamic performance. The new helmet includes an integrated visor with fore/aft adjustment, which is said to better aerodynamics, and allow for a rider to better position it on their face.The visor comes in clear and tinted options.
The Wasp features intake vents, rear exhaust vents and molded EPS air channels to direct airflow through the helmet. Lazer say they understand that aerodynamic properties must be balanced with common sense features for the rider.
The Wasp saves between 2 and 12 watts over the competition, Lazer claim
Wasp comes with Lazer’s AutoFit automatic retention system. An adaptation of the RollSys, the AutoFit has been used on Lazer’s kids helmets. Instead of using a manual dial to cinch the retention cage to a rider's head, AutoFit uses a sprung recoil system that automatically feeds out and tightens to the head.
The Lazer Wasp helmet will be available in two size options (53-56cm or 57-60cm) and will cost $399 when sold with the visor ($299 without). The Lazer Wasp aerodynamic helmet will be available for sale in January 2013.
Wasp development and testing
Lazer developed this helmet over the past year using fluid dynamic technology. Lazer claims it's the world's fastest commercially available helmet.
Lazer commissioned the STAPS Institute to test the helmet for aerodynamics. STAPS concluded a performance advantage of between 2 and 4 watts at 45kph, or 12 seconds over 40 kilometers, as compared to the closest competition, Lazer claim. When compared to a slow helmet, Lazer say, the performance gain is as high as 12 watts.
