As is often the case, we could already see the new helmet among the pros. The men and women of DSM – Firmenich PostNL have been riding with this aero bicycle helmet from Scott for some time. In terms of name, it is not new, because Cadence Plus was also the name of the previous version of the aero helmet. In my opinion, the new Scott Cadence Plus helmet looks a lot more subtle and even more streamlined.
More versatile, faster and compact
The previous version of the Cadence Plus had been around for a long time and was developed for the men of the then Orica Greenedge team. With the new Cadence Plus helmet, they mainly wanted to make it more compact and versatile. By making the ventilation holes of the helmet less angular, the helmet is more streamlined and will also retain its aerodynamic advantage in different positions. The Swiss also see this in the results from the wind tunnel, which show that even in crosswinds, the wind can get around the helmet better. According to Scott, this gives an advantage of 22% in a crosswind at an angle of 15 degrees.
In terms of volume, they have made the helmet 10% more compact and you can especially see that it has become a lot more subtle at the back compared to its predecessor. All in all, Scott says he gains 1 watt. So quite a lot has been changed with a result of 'only' 1 watt. On the other hand, this also indicates that its predecessor was already an aerodynamic and technically advanced helmet. By the way, according to Scott, that 1 watt is equivalent to 10 seconds at a speed of 43 km/h over 40 km.
With the MIPS Air Node system integrated into the padding, the helmet weighs 280 grams in size M, according to Scott. That is comparable to its predecessor, and an excellent weight for an aero helmet. The helmet is more compact, but its weight has remained the same due to a more closed construction and Scott's own magnetic closure.
Sunglass stowage, taillight and Aero plugs
No, it's not a typo because Scott calls the space in the ventilation holes to put your glasses in sunglass stowage. By the way, it is simply an English translation of 'store', although I think it is less often used as a translation in the Low Countries. But there is room to put your glasses in. At the rear, Scott has integrated a click system for a tail light. This rechargeable rear light offers extra safety, especially during winter training rides.
For even more aero benefits, you can close the front ventilation holes with Aero plugs. These are three 3D-printed caps that you can click into the three largest openings at the front. The outer two small openings remain open, so you can still store your glasses in your helmet. In addition to the 2 watt saving due to these plugs, it is also a welcome addition in winter because it keeps out the rain and cold. You can order these Aero plugs separately and cost € 19.90 and I am secretly curious how much time this extra 2 watts can save, if 1 watt is already 10 seconds on 40 km.
The helmet is available for € 249.90 and that is a great price for a high-end aero helmet with Mips. It is available in sizes S, M and L and you can choose from four different colors. The sleek, but less pronounced white or black helmet or the striking purple or diamond gray/lime green helmet.
via Scott