In a groundbreaking move set to redefine cyclist safety, Van Rysel, the high-performance cycling brand under Decathlon, has unveiled “Project AIRBAG”—a fully integrated airbag skinsuit designed to protect professional riders during high-speed races. (cyclingweekly.com)
A New Era in Rider Protection
As professional cycling speeds escalate, the risk of severe injuries has become a pressing concern. Statistics reveal that approximately 20% of WorldTour riders sustain fractures each season, totaling over 1,300 fractures in the past six years. (cyclingweekly.com) Addressing this, Van Rysel’s Project AIRBAG introduces a race-ready skinsuit with an integrated airbag system, aiming to enhance rider safety without compromising performance.
Seamless Integration and Rapid Deployment
Unlike traditional external airbag systems, Project AIRBAG’s technology is seamlessly incorporated into the suit’s design. Developed in collaboration with In&motion, specialists in airbag technology for motorsports, the system utilizes sensors that analyze rider movements up to 1,000 times per second. In the event of a fall, the airbag deploys within 60 milliseconds, providing immediate protection to critical areas such as the thorax, rib cage, neck, and spine. (cyclingweekly.com)
Performance Without Compromise
Weighing approximately 700 grams, with 500 grams dedicated to the airbag system, the suit maintains the lightweight and aerodynamic qualities essential for elite racing. Collaborations with aerodynamic experts have ensured that the suit’s design minimizes drag, matching the performance of traditional WorldTour skinsuits. (cyclingweekly.com)
A Vision for the Future
Currently undergoing validation with professional riders from the Decathlon CMA CGM team and Van Rysel Roubaix, Project AIRBAG is poised to set a new standard in cycling safety. Van Rysel plans to make this advanced protection technology available to retail customers within the next two years, aiming to democratize rider safety and establish the airbag as a new standard in the sport. (cyclingweekly.com)
By integrating cutting-edge airbag technology directly into the cycling suit, Van Rysel is not only enhancing rider safety but also paving the way for a future where performance and protection go hand in hand.