Pogacar's new helmet for time trials: MET presents Drone Wide Body II TT helmet
Optimised aerodynamics thanks to new helmet shape
The Met Drone Wide Body II features a revised tail design, which was developed in the recently completed in-house wind tunnel facility "The Tube". According to MET, the linear design of the tail enables a lower head position when riding. This is said to result in a time saving of 13.5 seconds on a 40-kilometre time trial compared to the previous model. The characteristic wide-body design of the helmet directs the airflow specifically over the shoulders, which reduces turbulence and air resistance. This leads to energy savings and an aerodynamic advantage for the rider.
Technical details and equipment
Weighing 430 grams in sizes M and L, the Drone Wide Body II is one of the lightest helmets with a long tail on the market, according to MET. Strategically placed air inlets with low resistance combined with an internal air duct system are designed to improve ventilation and comfort. The helmet has an in-mould polycarbonate shell with EPS inner shell. Features include the MET Safe-T Advanced Fit System, a height and width-adjustable headband and a removable MET Mag-Clip visor.
Development in in-house wind tunnel
The Drone Wide Body II was developed in the new wind tunnel facility "The Tube" at the MET headquarters in Talamona, Italy. The circular facility was specially designed for aerodynamic and thermal analyses in cycling. It enables tests to be carried out on helmets, bicycles, rider positions and aerodynamic equipment. According to MET, various test scenarios can be carried out in the facility with a head model or a complete bike including rider.
Thermal analyses and prototype development
The system has a heated head model with temperature sensors that simulates a body temperature of 38 degrees Celsius. This allows the effectiveness of the internal airflow of helmets to be measured. Thanks to in-house 3D printers, MET can also produce and test various prototypes directly on site. The wind tunnel complements the existing development facilities at the headquarters, which include a crash test laboratory and FEM analysis capabilities.
Technical specifications:
- Weight: 430 grams (size M and L)
- Sizes: M (55/58 cm), L (58/61 cm)
- Price: 500 Euro
- Certification: CE
- Features: In-mould polycarbonate shell, EPS inner shell, MET Safe-T Advanced Fit System, 4 ventilation openings, MET Mag-Clip visor
- Angle of attack: 0 to 30 degrees adjustable
