The MoDrop bicycle helmet by Abus comes in three versions – one of them features crash sensor technology
25.4.2023
Translation: Jessica Johnson-Ferguson
Pictures: Patrick Bardelli
With the MoDrop, Abus has added an off-road bike helmet to its range. This all-rounder model is available for MTB or gravel bike and equipped with a built-in crash sensor and Mips technology, among other features.
In 1924, August Bremicker and his sons developed a padlock in the forge in their family home’s basement. What started out modestly in North Rhine-Westphalia almost a century ago has since evolved into a global leader in safety technology. Abus, an acronym of the original company name August Bremicker und Söhne, now produces high-tech bike helmets among other things.
Source: Patrick Bardelli
Abus MoDrop with or without
There are different versions of the MoDrop. There’s the simple one, the Mips model and the helmet with a built-in crash sensor. However, the first two models can be retroactively fitted with the Abus sensor that’s available separately.
All three models are manufactured using the in-mould process. This involves one single work step that moulds together the outer shell of the helmet, which is made of thin polycarbonate, with the inner shell that’s made of expanded polysterol (EPS). This keeps the outer shell very thin and keeps it lightweight. The MoDrop Mips with a built-in crash sensor and in size M weighs 335 grammes. This means it’s similar in weight to comparable models without an integrated sensor.
Source: Patrick Bardelli
Technology
- height-adjustable system to fit your head circumference
- suitable for people who wear their hair in a ponytail
- gadget to fix a pair of goggles to the helmet when they’re not in use
- ventilation through 6 air inlets and 8 air outlets
- bug mesh for thorough protection against insects
Abus Quin crash sensor
Being out and about on your bike alone can be a beautiful thing. However, it can also be dangerous if you crash, for example. If this happens, a crash sensor can save lives. There are various technologies out there. For example, a product by Tocsen that you glue onto your bike helmet.
Abus works with a system that’s integrated into the helmet. As mentioned above, there’s the model with the built-in sensor or the option to retrofit the models that don’t have this feature. The Bluetooth chip that’s built into the sensor has an accelerometer and registers vibrations and falls. If you want to find out more about how the sensor works, click on the image:
Source: Abus
The chip is connected to a Quin app for iPhone and Android. In the event of an accident, the app informs up to three defined emergency contacts via push message, SMS and e-mail.
Source: Patrick Bardelli
Good value for money
The MoDrop Quin is particularly interesting when it comes to value for money. While the model that features neither a crash sensor nor Mips costs the most at Galaxus, the model with the built-in sensor is the cheapest. Now that’s what I call creative pricing. The Abus MoDrop Quin currently costs just under 80 francs. And what about Mips? This technology is designed to reduce damaging rotational forces in the event of a side-impact collision. And, if the latest test by consumer magazine Kasstensturz (in German) is to be believed, it doesn’t really do much. I look forward to reading your comments on this.
So should I go for the MoDrop that currently costs 129 francs and upgrade it with the sensor for Fr. 59.50? No way. Or should I get the Mips version for 101 francs and treat myself to the sensor? Nope. What I would do is get the model with the built-in crash sensor without Mips. However, if you already own the MoDrop or the MoDrop Mips, you can upgrade it with the crash sensor for just under 60 francs.
Source: Patrick Bardelli
Patrick Bardelli
Senior Editor
Patrick.Bardelli@digitecgalaxus.chFrom radio journalist to product tester and storyteller, jogger to gravel bike novice and fitness enthusiast with barbells and dumbbells. I'm excited to see where the journey'll take me next.
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