Why Europe Is Ready for the Next Generation of Bike Helmets

In 2023, the European Parliament called on the European Commission to craft an ambitious EU Cycling Strategy, aiming to double the number of kilometres cycled across Europe by 2030. This bold vision underscores the continent’s commitment to greener transport, recognizing cycling as essential for climate neutrality, public health, and easing urban congestion.

However, as cycling gains momentum, safety continues to lag behind. While billions of euros are invested in bike lanes and infrastructure, helmet technology has remained largely unchanged for decades. Traditional EPS helmets are rigid, bulky, and uncomfortable — factors that discourage daily use, especially among urban commuters.

At Newton-Rider, we believe Europe’s cycling ambitions demand new thinking about rider safety. That’s why we created the N1neo: the world’s first semi-soft, flexible bicycle helmet engineered to offer advanced linear protection. Unlike conventional designs, N1neo absorbs impacts more gradually across a wider range. Independent EN 1078 laboratory tests prove its performance — exceeding safety thresholds by 24–52% in all test zones. Better yet, the N1neo is 40% slimmer than standard EPS helmets and foldable for easy storage at the office or on the move. It’s practicality, comfort, and safety — redefined for today’s urban commuter.

Just as crucially, the N1neo is produced entirely in Europe. With approximately 95% of helmets currently imported from Asia, Newton-Rider is leading the reshoring of innovation and intellectual property back to the EU, supported by a fully European supply chain. This approach directly aligns with EU priorities around strategic autonomy, reindustrialization, and greater supply chain resilience.

Across Europe, change is already underway:

• Cycling rates are climbing steadily, delivering tangible health and environmental benefits.
• Policymakers are setting new targets and allocating funding to make urban cycling safer and more appealing.
• France has already included helmets in national bike leasing programs, and similar initiatives are being explored in other countries.

The EU’s message is clear: doubling cycling by 2030 will require both world-class infrastructure and smart product innovation. With the N1neo, Newton-Rider is narrowing the safety gap — combining enhanced protection, European manufacturing, and a design built for modern commuters.

The next era of cycling isn’t just about putting more people on bikes — it’s about ensuring everyone can ride confidently, comfortably, and safely.