Shark’s aero revolution: How Aeron GP's moving flaps could transform helmet design

Shark are entering a new realm of aerodynamic stability with their new Aeron GP race helmet – said to be the first in the world to adapt to its wearer’s riding position and prevailing conditions via movable flaps to improve aerodynamics.

Dubbed the ‘Adaptive Aero System’, or ‘A2S’, and developed with French MotoGP rider Johann Zarco, the patented system works by having two moveable ‘flaps’ on the rear of the helmet, one on each side of a lengthy spoiler.

These channel the airflow through and around the helmet – adapting according to the airflow and pressure in any given circumstance. So, for example, when the rider is in the fully tucked position when going down a straight, the flaps extend outwards to deflect the airflow around the hump in the rider’s leathers to create improved aerodynamics.

The flaps are not motorised but are designed to be shifted by the speed and pressure of the airflow around them as you ride.

As well being tested on-track with the help of Zarco, the system was also developed following extensive use of Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) simulations coupled with wind tunnel tests.

The result, claim Shark, reduces ‘flag effect’ or flapping, by 80%, turbulence by 50%, drag by 5% as well as providing optimum ventilation thanks to the double venturi effect provided by the five air inlets and seven air extractors.

The proof, of course, will be in the pudding and, as the Aeron GP has been designed specifically as a race or track helmet, it’s yet to be seen what value all this ‘Adaptive Aero System’ stuff might have when riding your Tracer 9 past Toddington Services while wearing a backpack.

But while ‘A2S’ is rightfully the new Aeron GP’s headline feature, it’s not its only one. The fact it is a top-of-the-range race helmet from the French firm means it has a shell made from an exposed carbon and aramid mix – a composition which is claimed to provide excellent shock absorption combined with impressively light weight.

Inside, the lining, thanks to Shark’s ‘Best Fit’ system of interchangeable pads, including the new ‘Morpho 3D’ cheek pads, is claimed to guarantee comfort, support and stability.

There are also removable ear pads and two anti-fog masks – one for summer, the other for winter, plus a sanitised antimicrobial lining fabric to help keep things fresh.

The visor has an Optical Class 1 rating, is anti-fog and anti-scratch, has four anchor points and a quick-release system.The strap is fastened by a red double-D ring with a magnetic Auto-Lock protector.

The Aeron GP is ECE 22.06-approved, six colours will be available initially, and sizes range from XS to 2XL. UK prices have yet to be released.

Shark Aeron GP helmet in detail

• Quality lining: Shark’s ‘Best fit’ system includes new ‘3D Morpho’ cheek pads, removable ear pads and a sanitised Alveotech antimicrobial interior fabric to help keep things fresh.
• Shelling out: The helmet’s shell is in the latest ‘carbon on view’ and aramid (COVA) shell to provide optimum shock absorption plus light weight. A full carbon version is also available.
• Adaptive Aero System: The ‘A2S’ was developed with MotoGP race-winner Johann Zarco, Computational Fluid Dynamics and wind tunnel tests and comprises twin rear-mounted flaps which react to the airflow/pressure according with the rider’s position to channel air more aerodynamically. This reduces turbulence, drag, and more.
• Latest visor: The Optical Class 1 anti-fog and anti-scratch visor has Shark’s four anchor points and its Quick Release Visor System. The Aeron GP also comes with a replacement dark smoke visor.
• Strapped up: The Aeron GP’s chin strap is secured with a red double-D ring fastener, comes with a magnetic Auto-Lock protector and the helmet. You’ll also find Shark’s Emergency Quick Release System.

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