There was a lot of buzz around the HighBar helmet strap and fit systems this past week at Sea Otter Classic. Yes, it looks slightly odd, but everything on the bicycle helmet has evolved over the years except for the strap, HighBar thinks its timeThe HighBar system before install on the helmet system. The pins slot into the helmet (designed specifically the system) and is retained by two small screws hidden under padding and the locking pieces at the top.(Photo/ Jordan Villella)What is HighBar, and what is this creation?HighBar Helmet StrapImage HighBarThe HighBar helmet retention system was wholly designed to keep helmets in place, not just on the riders heads. Many riders (professionals, too) have a helmet strap dangling about three inches from their chin. When they need the helmet to doits job, no MIPS, WavCel, or other novel device can work properly with the helmet not being retained adequately on the riders head.The HighBar strap ready for the rider. (Photo/ Jordan Villella)So the HighBar team took note, wondering how to create a better strap that would retain the helmet on a riders head without being intrusive. They landed on an adjustable knob, similar to the knob used to tighten the rear cradle of the helmet.What are the Benefits?Image: HighBarThere are quite a few. First is noise, wind noise, and flapping straps, specifically. The HighBar design team noted, when they first went to the Wind tunnel for testing, they detected far less flap and noise from the system.HighBar thumb dial for tighten/loosing fit. (Photo/ Jordan Villella)If not adjusted right, the webbing straps tend to flap significantly in the wind on traditional helmets.Usually,whenhelmet manufacturers enter the WindTunnel, theytape down the webbing straps; theyreinterested in mostly helmet data.However, the fixed position of the Hi-Bars keeps them faster in the wind, around 7 watts faster than traditional webbing.Side view of the HighBar system. (Photo/ Jordan Villella)The HighBar strap is fixed, slightly more aero, and 6 decibels quieter than webbing straps. HighBar claims their new system is roughly 50% quieter than traditional helmets with webbing straps.Thats a bonus if youre a fan of group ride smack-talking.How does the HighBar helmet strap fit?Be kindit was a long Sea Otter Classic. (Photo/ Jordan Villella)At first, it feels weird, but you adjust after a moment (like a minute). Its like a hockey helmet strap and a well-adjusted cycling strap combined. The piece underneath has a small pad for some extra cushion but shouldnt be over-tightened. The pivotal point of the strap is right in the middle of the ear. This pivot gives the strap a nice point to move and get to the chin in a straight line. (Photo/ Jordan Villella)The system shouldnt touch the riders head, another feature you wont notice until you try it on. The HighBar system is notably cooler in the wind and feels super light without the webbing straps touching your face.You get more surface airflow and arguably better body temperature regulation. Marginal gains!The HighBar system uses a single pivot to move the strap around. Its very lightweight, with a metal core and plastic bushings. (Photo/ Jordan Villella)When can you get one?Well, thats coming, but keep your eyes open on BikeRumor, the World Tour, World Series of Mountain Bike or Gravel, and Im sure youll see one soon.Were hopingto know more information this summer.The post HighBar Plans to Replace Your Helmet Straps (and its More Aerodynamic) appeared first on Bikerumor.