Helmets and security brand ABUS has launched the TimeShifter, an aerodynamic time trial helmet developed alongside aerodynamics specialist Swiss Side.
The project was designed to address the complex nature of time trial aerodynamics, where variables such as body measurements, riding position, head movement, and course profiles mean no single helmet is universally the fastest option for every rider. ABUS developed the TimeShifter through 112 CFD simulations, 194 wind tunnel runs, and 39 velodrome tests to create a helmet optimised for a broad range of real-world racing positions rather than a static lab setup.
Lennart Bechheim, Product Manager at ABUS, said “We didn’t want a marketing claim, but an honest answer to the crucial question: how can we develop the fastest ABUS helmet for the majority of riders?”
Development focused on a multi-position setup that simulated four realistic riding positions: head up, head down, flat arms, and angled arms. ABUS reports that the result is an aerodynamic saving of 10.5 to 14.7 watts at 50 km/h compared to its GameChanger TT 1.1 model, alongside an improvement in cooling performance of up to 13%.
Lennart Bechheim, Product Manager at ABUS, said “Thanks to Swiss Side’s know-how and expertise, we were able to make measurable progress. When we realised that, for a very large proportion of the athletes we tested, no other helmet was faster, that became the turning point for us.”
Simulations conducted by Swiss Side using real-world course profiles projected time savings over the 38km 2024 Olympic Time Trial in Paris of 34-42 seconds, and savings of 2:00-3:57 minutes over the 180 km Challenge Roth triathlon bike leg, compared to the GameChanger TT 1.1.
The TimeShifter was tested in WorldTour competition and elite triathlon during 2025 with riders from Movistar, including Cat Ferguson and Ivan Romeo. Marlen Reusser used the helmet while winning the 2025 World Championship time trial, and Jonas Schomburg recorded the fastest bike split at Challenge Roth using the model.
Marlen Reusser said “I love how comfortable it feels, and the results speak for themselves. The helmet is incredibly fast.”
Jonas Schomburg said “The TimeShifter showed what it’s capable of in Roth, and it was an incredible feeling to cross the line with the fastest bike split.”
The helmet features a Dual Visor Concept, making it the first time trial helmet to offer two interchangeable visor shapes, Narrow and Wide. The option alters the helmet’s effective width to optimise airflow depending on shoulder width and cockpit setup. A Cut Visor option is also available for low or aggressive positions.
Features include:
- Two sizes: M (54-58cm) and L (57-61cm)
- Colours: Velvet Black and Polar White
- Dual Visor Concept with magnetic attachments (clear, tinted, and mirrored finishes)
- Forced Air Cooling System
- In-Mold construction (EPS and PC)
- Zoom Spin adjustment system and magnetic FIDLOCK buckle
- UCI-compliant and TÜV-certified (CE 1078)
- Weight: 480g (size M) and 505g (size L)
