Mavic’s CXR Ultimate Helmet

Just in time to keep you aerodynamic and cool while hammering on your solo breakaways during the heat soaked summer days, Mavic’s new CXR Ultimate helmet is a comfortable, lightweight brain protection option.

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RELATED: Visit the entire #PelotonServiceCourse tested collection.

Founded in 1889 and mostly known for their wheelsets as well as their neutral support vehicles in races like the Tour de France, Mavic is a French bicycle parts manufacturer (the name is an acronym for Manufacture d’Articles Vélocipédiques Idoux et Chanel), started by Charles Idoux and Lucien Chanel. The company also sells pedals, tires, apparel and helmets.

Using 145 different prototypes when designing the new CXR Ultimate helmet, Mavic has created a lightweight, aerodynamic helmet. A unique looking skull protector that was refined over countless trips to the wind tunnel sits comfortable and nearly disappears perched on the head. One of the first noticeable design differences is the solid casing located at the front tip of the helmet. This helps to move air over and around the CXR Ultimate (notice the tiny tail on the rear tip), theoretically improving the airflow.

The CXR Ultimate also boasts 28 clima vents which are designed to siphon warm air through the rear of the helmet compared to most helmets marketed as aero, which usually limited ventilation. This system offers the best of both worlds –  a noticeable cooling effect in hot temperatures while still offering an aerodynamic advantage.

The internal padding is made from low-density, open cell foam that Mavic calls the Ultimate Fit Pad – offering a comfortable feel on the forehead and excellent moisture management. New to this year is the secondary helmet padding layer which is now a denser foam, offering a supportive fit and firmer hold without creating those dreaded pressure spots that have you constantly adjusting your helmet during the ride. Additionally, an anti-bacterial and anti-odor lining with x-static keeps the CXR relatively stink free.

The CXR Ultimate even matches our new French kits.

Quick and simple size adjustment allows for as much as six centimeters of changes – the dial feels well constructed and is easy to rotate even with sweaty fingers. One handed, minor helmet tweaks has never been so easy. Weighing in at only 250 grams (size medium) Mavic’s newest head protector feels light in your hands pre-ride and is barely noticeable until it’s time to remove it at the coffee shop. Most aero road helmets we’ve tested at the #PelotonServiceCourse weigh roughly 25 grams more than the CXR Ultimate, so it’s safe to say there is no weight penalty for looking this good while staying as aerodynamic as possible.

Three sizes (S/M/L) and two colors (black/black or black/yellow), $220: mavic.com