Dutch helmet and accessories maker BBB introduced an all-new helmet called Icarus during Stage 3 of the Tour de France. BBB will be looking to get the final sign-off for production from Vacansoleil and Cofidis riders such as Wout Poels, Johnny Hoogerland, David Moncoutié and Rein Taaramae on the new helmet that is slated for availability in late 2012.

BBB used the feedback given about their current top-notch helmet, the Falcon, to design the new Icarus; the goal was to create a more compact, lightweight, comfortable helmet with even better ventilation properties. A new venting system called Airflow Cooling System (ACS) means that the 29 air vents have optimized shapes for better ventilation, and the adjustable straps have an open structure to allow airflow. The Icarus also incorporates the use of Quick Dry padding with Silver Protection anti-bacterial treatment.

Improved ventilation isn't the only thing that is updated on the Icarus though; a molding process called Double In-mold shell construction allows BBB to make a lighter, but even stronger shell according to BBB. In addition to the shell, SpiderWeb reinforcement is added to the backside of the helmet to protect you if you crash and hit the back of your head.

The Icarus uses BBB’s FlexClose adjustment system found on some of their other models. It’s one of the more adjustable helmet retention devices we’ve used, featuring adjustability in height and length to accommodate different head shapes. New strap dividers are smaller in order to be more comfortable, while still allowing ideal strap adjustability. 

The Icarus will come in two sizes, Medium and Large, and 5 color combinations: black/white, metallic black/neon yellow, white/blue, white/red and matte white/silver. Price is expected to be just over $200. For more information go to BBB.