Project AIRBAG: There is an Airbag Integrated Into this VAN RYSEL Skinsuit

VAN RYSEL is pioneering a groundbreaking approach to cyclist safety with its Project AIRBAG, a skinsuit that integrates an airbag system designed to protect riders in the event of a crash. Unlike traditional external airbags or protective vests, this innovative skinsuit incorporates the airbag directly into the garment, deploying within 60 milliseconds upon detecting an impact. The development comes amid increasing concerns over the frequency and severity of injuries in competitive cycling, with the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) actively encouraging advancements in protective gear. The airbag system relies on sophisticated impact-detection algorithms that analyse rider dynamics up to 1,000 times per second, utilising data from over 450 million kilometres to accurately distinguish between normal racing movements and actual crashes. Upon activation, the airbag cushions three critical areas: the thorax and rib cage, the cervical region to stabilise the neck, and the spinal line, offering comprehensive protection to the rider’s core. Additionally, the skinsuit features abrasion-resistant materials strategically placed to reduce road rash in high-impact zones, combining safety with durability. In terms of design, VAN RYSEL has aimed to maintain the aerodynamic and thermoregulatory qualities expected of a World Tour-level skinsuit, with extensive wind-tunnel testing conducted during development. Although precise performance data has not been disclosed, the company emphasises ongoing refinement to ensure the suit meets professional standards without compromising comfort or speed. The suit’s total weight is targeted at around 700 grams, with the airbag system accounting for approximately 500 grams, and it is believed the airbag may be single-use, requiring replacement after deployment. Professional input has been integral to Project AIRBAG, with riders from the Decathlon CMA CGM and VAN RYSEL Roubaix teams involved in testing outside laboratory conditions. While VAN RYSEL has not yet revealed pricing or a definitive release date, the product is reportedly in the final stages of testing and could be available to the public within the next two years. This innovation signals a potential shift in cycling safety, aligning with trends seen in motorsport disciplines like MotoGP, where airbag technology is already mandatory.