Flex-equipped carbon fibre-shelled variants of
the Star range, the Pro Star ($1799.90) and Race
Star ($1099.90), that it introduced last year.
So how does MIPS compare with Flex? Why is
it worth paying $300 more for a Race Star than
a MIPS-equipped Star besides other benefits
like the carbon-fibre outer layer overlaid on
a tri-matrix composite shell, better visibility
when adopting a sporty riding position, quick-
release magnetic cheekpads, and cooling
jade particle-enhanced fabric lining?
“The three inner-helmet layers of the Flex
system (the usual expanded polystyrene
overlaid by layers of expanded polypropylene
and expanded polyolefin) combine with each
other to manage a wider range of impact
forces,” explains Bell spokesman, Luke Brady.
“Flex provides a similar slip plane to MIPS
within the helmet, but it also manages the
rotational energy instead of merely transferring
it to the EPS (expanded polystyrene) layer.”
“The segmented layers provide
better ventilation as well.”
Lance Ohrazda says that MIPS was the only brand
dealing with rotational impact injuries 6-7 years ago,
and the uptake of the new technology was swift
amongst the bicycle and snowsports communities.
There are now 10 other brands offering rotational
impact protection in those sectors, via their
association with more than 70 helmet makers.
He expects motorcyclists will also be quick
to recognise the benefits now that the
technology is available, and says that Bell and
MIPS have a head-start on their competitors
through the special patented test-rigs that
they have developed to accurately measure
how helmets can absorb rotational violence.
24 KIWI RIDER