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Abus Size Guide
ABUS Size Guide — Bicycle Helmets
ABUS is a German company founded in 1924 in Wetter (Ruhr). Initially a manufacturer of locks and security systems, ABUS ventured into bicycle helmets in 1994. Today, the brand offers a complete range for all disciplines: road, MTB, gravel, urban, and electric. The high-end models (AirBreaker, GameChanger) are made in Italy.
Sources: official ABUS grids (abus.com). Head circumference in centimeters.
Alpinstore Anti-Return Tips
- Always measure your head before ordering. A head circumference of 56 cm can correspond to an S or M depending on the model — the ranges intentionally overlap to allow for fine adjustment.
- ABUS uses Zoom™ adjustment systems: each helmet adjusts internally within its range via a rear dial. If in doubt between two sizes, prefer the smaller (adjustable upwards) rather than the larger.
- Urban and Pedelec helmets: provide deeper coverage of the temples and neck. If you are looking for maximum coverage for city or electric biking, add +1 to 2 cm to your head circumference to be in the upper part of the range.
- Ponytail compatibility: models marked "ponytail compatible" have a height-adjustable Zoom system. If you have long hair, check this mention on the product sheet.
1. How to Measure Your Head Circumference
Official ABUS Measurement Technique
- Use a flexible measuring tape (not a rigid meter).
- Place the tape around the head at forehead height, about 1 to 2 cm above the eyebrows.
- Wrap the tape around the widest part of the head at the back (the occiput).
- The tape should be horizontal and adjusted without tightening.
- Repeat 3 times and retain the largest measurement.
General Correspondence
| Size | Head Circumference |
|---|---|
| S | 51 — 55 cm |
| M | 52 — 58 cm |
| L | 57 — 62 cm |
| XL | 61 — 65 cm |
Ranges may vary depending on the model — see the detailed table below.
2. Road & Performance Helmets
| Model | S | M | L | XL | Technology |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AirBreaker | 51—55 | 52—58 | 59—61 | — | Multi Speed, In-Mold, Zoom Ace, sewn straps |
| AirBreaker 2.0 | 51—55 | 54—58 | 57—61 | — | Evolution of AirBreaker, In-Mold |
| GameChanger | 51—55 | 52—58 | 59—62 | — | Multi Speed, aerodynamic, Zoom Spin |
| GameChanger 2.0 | 51—55 | 54—58 | 57—61 | — | Updated Multi Speed, In-Mold |
| Aventor | 51—55 | 54—58 | 57—61 | — | ActiCage, In-Mold, Zoom Spin |
| StormChaser | 51—55 | 54—58 | 59—61 | 61—63 | Aerodynamic, 4 sizes available |
3. MTB & Enduro Helmets
| Model | S | M | L | XL | Type / Technologies |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cliffhanger (MIPS) | 51—55 | 54—58 | 57—61 | — | Enduro half-shell, optional MIPS, ActiCage |
| MoTrip | 51—55 | 54—58 | 57—61 | — | Enduro half-shell, visor, Zoom Spin |
| MoDrop (MIPS) | 51—55 | 54—58 | 57—61 | — | Full face integral, removable chin, MIPS |
| AirDrop (MIPS) | 51—55 | 54—58 | 57—61 | — | Full face integral fixed, MIPS, Hard Shell |
| Moventor 2.0 | 51—55 | 54—58 | 57—61 | — | Trail/All-Mountain, adjustable visor, optional MIPS |
4. Gravel & All-Road Helmets
| Model | S | M | L | XL | Technologies |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Macator (MIPS) | 51—55 | 52—58 | 58—62 | — | In-Mold, optional MIPS, detachable visor |
| Viantor (MIPS) | 51—55 | 52—58 | 58—62 | — | In-Mold, visor, ActiCage |
5. Urban, Commuter & Electric Bike Helmets
| Model | S | M | L | XL | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Urban-I 3.0 | 51—55 | 52—58 | 56—61 | 61—65 | Integrated rear LED, visor, In-Mold |
| Hyban 2.0 | — | 52—58 | 56—61 | — | Hard Shell, LED, deep coverage, robust |
| Pedelec 2.0 (E-Bike) | 51—55 | 52—57 | 56—62 | — | NTA 8776 E-Bike certified, LED, covered temples |
| Hud-Y | 51—55 | 52—58 | 56—61 | — | Urban skate style, In-Mold, lightweight |
6. ABUS Technologies
In-Mold
The outer polycarbonate (PC) shell is directly injected into the EPS foam that absorbs shocks. Result: durable assembly, reduced weight, better ventilation. Standard on high-end road and trail helmets.
Hard Shell
Rigid ABS shell molded by injection and then placed on the EPS. More robust against scratches and repeated impacts. Slightly heavier than In-Mold. Mainly used on urban helmets (Hyban, Pedelec).
Zoom Ace / Zoom Spin
Zoom Ace: precise adjustment system with indexed dial and height adjustment rod. Allows for fine adaptation for each head within the size range. Zoom Spin: standard dial at the back, simple and reliable.
ActiCage
Integrated reinforcement structure in the EPS allowing for large ventilation openings without compromising rigidity and safety. Used on Aventor, Cliffhanger, and Macator.
MIPS
Multi-directional Impact Protection System. Thin sliding polymer layer between the foam and the inner shell. Absorbs rotational forces during an oblique impact, reducing the risk of brain injuries. Available as an option on several MTB and gravel models.
QUIN (fall detector)
Smart sensor clipable into a designated housing. Detects falls and automatically sends an emergency call with GPS location. Available on MoDrop Quin, Cliffhanger Quin, Viantor Quin. Compatible with the QUIN app.
ABUS Helmet FAQ
Why do sizes S and M overlap?
This is intentional. ABUS designs its sizes so that the Zoom systems cover a wide range within each size. A head circumference of 54 cm can wear an S or M depending on the head shape (round, oval, flat). If in doubt, prefer the smaller size as it is better adjustable upwards than the larger downwards.
What is the difference between In-Mold and Hard Shell helmets for the city?
The In-Mold (Urban-I 3.0, Hud-Y) is lighter and better ventilated — perfect for daily commutes in hot weather. The Hard Shell (Hyban 2.0, Pedelec 2.0) is more robust against scratches from handlebars, bike racks, and repeated impacts. It also provides better coverage of the temples and neck, recommended for long-distance commutes and electric biking.
Is MIPS worth the extra cost?
MIPS is particularly recommended for MTB, enduro, and off-road riding where oblique falls are frequent. For road cycling, studies show measurable but reduced benefits as impacts are often more frontal. For urban cyclists, the benefit is more subtle. The decision depends on use and budget: if the MIPS helmet fits your budget without compromising comfort or ventilation, it is always preferable.
When should I replace my ABUS helmet?
ABUS recommends replacing any helmet after a significant impact, even if no visible damage is apparent (the EPS foam may be compressed internally). Without impact, the recommended lifespan is 5 years from the date of purchase (regardless of frequency of use). UV rays, cleaning products, and sweat gradually degrade the properties of the foam. The manufacturing date is usually indicated inside the helmet.
ABUS size charts based on official data (sources: abus.com). Ranges may vary slightly depending on collection years. Always measure your head circumference before any order and if you are between two sizes, consult the Zoom adjustment system available on the product sheet.
