ABUS TimeShifter – The Fastest ABUS Helmet Ever

Therefore, there is no single helmet that is universally the fastest choice under all conditions and for every athlete. Models that perform excellently in individual tests can lose significant performance when the rider’s posture changes or when a different type of rider is tested.

ABUS made a conscious decision not to make general wattage claims. Instead, the new TimeShifter was developed through a multi-phase process involving 112 CFD simulations, 194 wind tunnel tests, and 39 tests on the velodrome. The goal was not to create a helmet for a perfect laboratory position, but rather the fastest ABUS helmet for the broadest possible group of riders and for realistic race conditions.

Swiss precision meets ABUS safety

A key part of the development process was the collaboration with aerodynamics specialist Swiss Side, a technology partner with roots in Formula 1 and extensive experience in high-performance cycling and triathlon.

Thanks to this collaboration, every phase of development could be evaluated objectively and data-driven, from the initial CAD geometry to the final production prototypes. CFD analyses, wind tunnel tests, and track testing were systematically combined to draw reliable conclusions about real-world performance improvements. Thanks to Swiss Side’s know-how and expertise, ABUS was able to make measurable progress. “When we determined that, for the vast majority of the athletes tested, no other helmet was faster, that was the turning point for us.”

Multi-Position Approach

During time trials, head and arm positions are never static. Fatigue, course profile, and race dynamics constantly cause position changes that directly affect aerodynamics. To simulate this reality, ABUS developed the TimeShifter using a reproducible dummy setup with four realistic riding positions:

• Head Up and Head Down

• Flat Arms and Angled Arms

This combination formed the basis for all CFD and wind tunnel tests. The goal was to achieve “robust” aerodynamics: a helmet that consistently delivers low drag values across a realistic range of head and arm positions.

The result: a significant aerodynamic improvement over the GameChanger TT 1.1, with an estimated power savings of 10.5 to 14.7 watts at 50 km/h, while cooling was also improved by up to 13%.

As an athlete, you’ll achieve the following time savings:

Olympic Time Trial (approximately 38 km)

• 34 to 42 seconds faster than the GameChanger TT 1.1

Challenge Roth (180 km triathlon bike course)

• 2:00 to 3:57 minutes faster than the GameChanger TT 1.1

The exact time savings depend on wind conditions. The data is based on simulations using the Swiss Side Performance Platform.

Proven in the pro peloton and long-distance triathlons

The TimeShifter wasn’t just developed in a lab; it was tested in professional races from the very beginning. Movistar athletes, including Cat Ferguson and Ivan Romeo, were closely involved in the entire development process.

During the helmet’s final year of development in 2025, the TimeShifter was used in WorldTour races and elite triathlons. Marlen Reusser wore the TimeShifter during the World Time Trial Championships and claimed the world title in 43:09, with a lead of nearly 52 seconds. German triathlete Jonas Schomburg also rode the TimeShifter to the fastest bike split at Challenge Roth.

Dual Visor Concept – Two styles. One goal: a personalized fit.

The TimeShifter is the first time trial helmet with two interchangeable visor shapes: Narrow and Wide. Both variants alter the helmet’s effective width and shape, thereby optimizing the interaction between rider and helmet. Wind tunnel tests with professional athletes demonstrated that the choice of visor—depending on shoulder width and cockpit setup—can yield measurable aerodynamic benefits.

ABUS recommends conducting aerodynamic tests to determine the ideal visor choice for each individual rider. However, both visors offer aerodynamic benefits without compromising field of view or ventilation.

Facts & Features

• Two sizes: M (54–58 cm) and L (57–61 cm)
• Colors: Velvet Black and Polar White
• Identical aerodynamic outer shell for both sizes
• Dual Visor Concept (Narrow & Wide)
• Cut Visor for athletes with an exceptionally low time trial position
• Forced Air Cooling System (CFD-optimized)
• In-Mold construction (EPS + PC)
• Zoom™ Spin adjustment system
• Magnetic FIDLOCK closure
• UCI-approved and TÜV-certified (CE 1078)
• Weight: 480 g (size M) and 505 g (size L)
• Price: €599.99