ABUS HYP-E BL.ACE Helmet

A helmet like the ABUS HYP-E BL.ACE demonstrates how far modern safety technology in cycling can now go. It is not simply head protection, but an actively communicating system that significantly increases your presence in road traffic. Especially e‑bike riders and commuters who face heavy traffic, changing weather, and often suboptimal bike lanes every day benefit from a level of visibility that even brightly colored conventional helmets cannot provide.

At its core is an integrated lighting concept. The front and rear lights are permanently built-in, rechargeable, and can be controlled in several modes. They noticeably increase visibility at dusk, in bad weather, or in the bustle of city traffic.

Added to that are bright sequential running lights at the front and rear, which are triggered intuitively via a wireless handlebar remote. When you change lanes or want to turn, you can now signal that clearly and unambiguously in addition to the mandatory hand signal. And if you want to draw attention to a hazardous situation, you activate a kind of hazard warning by briefly pressing both buttons at the same time. If it doesn't help, it won't do any harm.

Particularly striking is the brake-light system of the BL.ACE variant, which can be retrofitted relatively inexpensively on the more affordable HYP-E models. Unlike many competitors' helmets, no acceleration sensor is used here that has to interpret from your riding maneuvers whether you're braking or just coasting. Instead, Abus relies on a clear mechanical solution: a wireless remote in the form of a rubberized brake-lever cap is slipped over the MTB, trekking or city-bike brake lever. When you pull the lever, the integrated button immediately activates the brake light, so those behind you should proactively notice that you are slowing down or want to stop.

Additionally, the adapter features a button for a bright front-light signal (headlight flash), which lets you quickly make yourself noticed in confusing or low-visibility situations or send short signals to other road users. Two small details with big impact, provided you want to use these functions and the lever attachment is compatible with the existing brake levers.

But the Abus HYP-E can do more than just light up and (blink). Its construction is designed for maximum commuter everyday practicality. The robust and durable multishell design is complemented by a comfortable adjustment system with a ponytail opening, a magnetic Fidlock fastener and washable pads. In wind, rain or cold the integrated ventilation cover can be closed, while in the open position an insect protection net prevents unwanted insect splatter.

The patented "Magnetic Hub" provides additional flexibility by allowing the clear visor to be attached, removed or slid into the convenient park position magnetically in seconds. And when it's unpleasant outside, the integrated ear covers help protect against wind and cold, while their reflective elements further improve visibility.

For maximum safety the helmet is certified to the NTA standard 8776. This classification means it is designed for higher speeds and greater impact forces, which is particularly reassuring when you're riding fast on an e‑bike or come a little too close to other motor vehicles.

Protection and construction
• Lower-edge protection: Polycarbonate outer shell protects the lower edge of the helmet from scratches, knocks and wear.
• Hybrid construction: Combination of in-mold and hard-shell manufacturing processes for high stability and optimal cushioning.
• IP44 protection: Certified against rain and splashing water, but not suitable for continuous submersion or high-pressure jets.

Light system and signals
• Integrated front and rear lights: Permanently built-in, rechargeable via USB-C and designed for improved visibility in road traffic.
• Six light modes: Steady, Power, Flow, Pulse, Flash and Eco to adapt to lighting conditions and conserve battery.
• Turn signals front and rear: Flashes in the direction of the turn, triggered via the handlebar remote control.
• Brake light function: Activates when the brake lever is operated via the rubberized brake lever cover.
• Remote control for turn signal: Wireless, rechargeable and intended for intuitive handlebar control.
• Remote control for brake light: Wireless, rechargeable and slipped over the brake lever, triggers the brake light when operated.

Operation and power supply
• Battery life: At least 2 hours in continuous mode and up to 40 hours in flashing mode, depending on weather and use.
• Charging time: About 4 hours to a full charge via USB-C.

Comfort and weather protection
• Vent cover: Closable openings to protect against sun, wind and rain, easy to open when needed.
• Insect protection net: Prevents insects from entering when ventilation is open.
• The removable pads are machine washable at 30°C.

Abus HYP-E BL.ACE helmet

* Magnetic helmet visors in "Smoke" and "Photochromic" are available to buy as accessories. Note: They are each available either for the helmet sizes Small/Medium or for Large.

The turn signal, brake light and remote controls communicate via a 2.4-GHz radio protocol based on OXI Wireless technology. This connection works reliably and without potential interference from apps, other Bluetooth devices, or Wi‑Fi. The remote control and turn signal are already paired on delivery. A USB-C cable for recharging is also included.

The intuitive turn-signal remote is attached to the handlebar with an elastic band and is ready to use as soon as the helmet is switched on. I like to use it, although not for every lane change or turning manoeuvre as you would in a car, but especially in those moments when it truly feels sensible. In poor visibility and in darkness, the dynamic turn signal provides noticeably more safety on the road.

When the brake lever is actuated, it activates a helmet brake light that clearly signals that you are slowing down or intend to stop. However, this function is only available if the corresponding brake-lever adapter is installed; this is slipped over the original brake lever and triggers the brake light when pulled.

A prerequisite is that the adapter fits correctly. On my Dahon folding bike with the stock brake levers it unfortunately keeps rotating downward and therefore does not work reliably, which is why I decided to do without it. On conventional MTB or trekking-bike brake levers, however, it sits securely and the brake light works as intended.