New high-end helmets from POC: The Cytal for road and gravel bikes

Both models were developed with the help of computer simulations and real tests. The Cytal builds on the Cytal Carbon already used by professional teams and further optimises its concept. Its integrated wing structure is designed to improve aerodynamic properties and at the same time provide better cooling. The Cularis, on the other hand, is a trail helmet designed to maximise air circulation while keeping weight to a minimum. Both helmets received the top score of five stars in crash tests conducted by the renowned Virginia Tech Institute.

POC Cytal relies on aerodynamic wing structure

The new Cytal racing bike helmet is based on the Cytal Carbon already used by professionals. The EF Education-EasyPost team has already used the helmet in important races such as Paris-Nice this season. The centrepiece of the Cytal is an integrated wing structure. According to POC, this is designed to channel the airflow through the helmet instead of deflecting it. This significantly reduces the high-pressure area at the front, which improves the aerodynamic profile. At the same time, the structure enables larger front air intakes with precisely calculated angles. In combination with linear inner channels, this results in exceptional cooling while riding. POC claims to have optimised the aerodynamics of the helmet with the help of extensive CFD simulations, wind tunnel tests and real riding tests. In previous tests, POC helmets were already the best ventilated.

POC Cularis offers high ventilation for mountain bike trails

With the Cularis, POC presents a new mountain bike helmet for trail use. Our sister magazine BIKE has already tested the helmet in advance. The Cularis builds on the experience gained with the previous Tectal and Kortal models. It remains true to the distinctive POC silhouette with generous head coverage. At the same time, according to the manufacturer, it offers exceptional ventilation. As with the racing bike helmets, air is specifically taken in at the front and channelled through the inside of the helmet. With a weight of 350 grams in size medium, the Cularis is one of the lighter trail helmets on the market. The integrated features include a Mips Air Node System with a high level of protection, a Fidlock buckle and a removable "Break-Away" helmet peak. The latter is designed to detach from the helmet in the event of a fall or getting caught so that no additional forces are transferred to the head or neck.

Safety at the centre of development at POC

According to POC, safety took centre stage in the development of both helmets. The company claims to have gone beyond conventional test methods and incorporated real accident data into the optimisation process. Advanced tools such as finite element methods are used to simulate accident forces. An internal database called "The Cube" contains almost one million pieces of real accident data. The company is also working with safety experts from Volvo and Folksam to analyse various scenarios such as helmet-to-car collisions. Oscar Huss, Chief Product Officer at POC, explains: "By analysing data from our research projects, we gain a deeper understanding of real-life impact scenarios. The key is to develop products that can better withstand real-life impacts."

Technical details and availability

The Cytal is available in three sizes from Small (50-56 cm) to Large (56-61 cm). Depending on the size, the weight is between 250 and 300 grams. The helmet has a variable adjustment system with removable forehead pads, adjustable straps and height adjustment at the back of the head ring. An integrated "Eye Garage" is designed to keep sunglasses securely in place even at high speeds. With three sizes, the Cularis covers a head circumference of 50 to 61 centimetres. Depending on the size, it weighs between 350 and 430 grams. Features include a 360-degree adjustment system, adjustable straps and an "Eye Garage" for goggles. Both helmets are certified to CE/EN standards. The Cytal will be available from 25 March 2025 at a price of 320 euros. The Cularis has been available since the end of March for 230 euros via the POC website and selected retailers and online shops. (such as Rosebikes) available.