Yesterday, I had some errands to run and was driving a rental car around town. In the busy, year-end season, driving in the city can be time-consuming, which really makes me appreciate the advantages of a bicycle all over again. Especially in a flat area like Nagoya, bicycles are an indispensable part of daily life regardless of the model.
Lately, while riding my bike around town, I’ve been thinking about how quiet modern cars really are. Often, I've had a near-miss where a car passed me suddenly without me even sensing it behind me, even while commuting. Of course, this applies to weekend rides, but I believe that safety awareness is crucial in our daily lives as well.
Wearing a helmet is a way of signaling your presence to cars and pedestrians. We have received new helmets from the California-born bike helmet giant, Giro, to bring safety to your daily commutes and weekend rides alike.
What sets the ASPECT apart from your typical basic helmet is its silhouette. With less side flare than other models, it looks sleek and features a simple design that complements everything from casual styles to full-on cycling jerseys and bib shorts.
Despite this, unlike helmets labeled specifically for city or urban riding, it features the same ROLL CAGE REINFORCEMENT as Giro's flagship models. By also incorporating the ROC LOC AIR FIT SYSTEM, it offers high breathability and cooling effects for a stress-free, optimal fit. While it may look perfect for daily use, it is actually a high-performer that stands out in the GIRO lineup.
The new Matte Black Dazzle color has a subdued tone, but it includes reflectors for peace of mind when riding at night. It is a Circles staple that we highly recommend for both commuting and weekend rides.
In contrast to the ASPECT, the Savant AF (Asian Fit) is a standard helmet suitable for both regular riding and racing. For those with wider head shapes, choosing the right helmet size is a major challenge. Even when finding a model you like, it’s quite common for customers at the shop to try it on and find it uncomfortable.
In some cases, a brand's head shape simply isn't a good match for ours, but this AF/Asian Fit model solves that problem. Yanack, a model who wears a size L in the ASPECT, can wear a size M in this Asian Fit version. Because the shell size is downsized as well, it eliminates that "bobblehead" look.
Our flagship model, the AEON, is also available in an Asian Fit version, just like the SAVANT.
In many cases, head shape issues come down to the width not matching. But if you size up just because the width is too tight, it ends up being too loose in the front and back. With this Asian Fit model, you get the right width without sacrificing a secure fit around the entire head. Above all, since it is the lightest model in our lineup, it stays comfortable on long rides and efficiently vents heat during the summer.
It is a model that achieves a high level of both lightness and safety. For those of you who have struggled with finding the right helmet size, I highly recommend giving this a try.
Also, don't neglect your cold-weather protection for winter rides. This cap, made from thin merino wool, is stress-free to wear and fits comfortably under your helmet. It covers your ears, making it a reliable item for early morning or late-night rides. Even if you break a sweat, its excellent quick-drying properties prevent it from getting stuffy, and the ear flaps can be folded up if needed.
The three models we introduced today are available in a variety of sizes and colors. We especially encourage those who use their bicycles every day to wear one. Better safe than sorry. Please feel free to come by and try them on.