product reviews

The Sunrimoon TT31 Starship triathlon helmet is quickly making waves in the cycling community, providing a blend of innovative features and appealing aesthetics at a competitive price point. Launched by a Chinese brand that aims to elevate cycling gear, this helmet promises to be more than just a pretty face in the market dominated by well-known names. In this article, we’ll explore the unique features and specifications of the TT31 Starship helmet, its performance on the road, and whether it can truly meet the demands of serious cyclists.

Overview of the Sunrimoon Brand

Founded in 2021, Sunrimoon is striving to carve out a niche in the cycling market with products that emphasize performance and innovation. The company’s name (SUN Run Into MOON) reflects its ambition to bring a blend of the sun’s energy and the moon’s tranquility to its designs. With the TT31 Starship helmet, they aim to provide riders with top-notch all-weather head protection.

Brand Mission

• To offer exceptional all-weather protection for cyclists.
• To integrate cultural elements into helmet design, showcasing creativity and originality.
• To focus on innovative technology to improve user experience.

At a price of $249 USD (approximately $350 CAD), the TT31 Starship helmet sits at a premium level compared to other options in the market. But what does that price grant you?

Check out the Sunrimoon TT31 Starship Helmet here

Features of the TT31 Starship Helmet

Aerodynamic Design

The Sunrimoon TT31 helmet is engineered specifically for time trials (TT) and triathlons. It boasts an aerodynamic shell that has undergone wind tunnel testing, ensuring it effectively reduces drag during high-speed cycling.

Ventilation System

While the helmet features a sliding air vent for customizable airflow, users should note that opening and closing this vent can be a bit finicky. However, it provides excellent ventilation to keep you cool during prolonged rides.

Photochromic Magnetic Visor

One of the most exciting features of the TT31 is its photochromic visor, which adapts to varying lighting conditions. This allows cyclists to ride comfortably at dawn, dusk, or under bright sunlight without needing to swap out visors.

Comfort and Fit

The integrated dial fit system ensures a snug fit for various head sizes, with multiple colors and sizes available. Cyclists can anticipate comfort even during extended rides of over two hours.

Safety Certifications

Safety is a key concern for any cyclist. The TT31 meets CE EN1078 and CPSC safety standards so you can be assured of its protective capabilities during rides.

Impressions After Real-World Testing

After testing the helmet across diverse road conditions, I found the TT31 Starship to deliver remarkable aerodynamic performance. The following points summarize my experience:

• Weight: Coming in at 519 grams, it is heavier compared to some competitors, like the Louis Garneau P09. However, the helmet doesn’t feel cumbersome during rides, which is a significant plus.
• Sound: The helmet operates fairly quietly, especially with the vent open, effectively reducing wind noise while providing cooling breezes.
• Cooling Effectiveness: The design facilitates airflow from front to back, maintaining a cooler head during warmer rides.
• Visual Appeal: The graphics and overall design are visually striking. It feels and looks premium, showcasing high construction quality.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Aerodynamic Performance: Backed by wind tunnel testing.
• Innovative Visor: Photochromic visor adapts well to lighting conditions.
• Comfortable Fit: The dial fit system delivers a substantial level of comfort.
• Premium Aesthetics: Eye-catching design with excellent build quality.

Cons

• Vent Difficulty: The vent can be challenging to manipulate mid-ride.
• Strap Comfort: The strap system may not suit everyone’s comfort preferences.
• Storage for Visor: There isn’t a suitable place to store the visor when detached, requiring you to hold it or keep it in your pocket.

Conclusion

The Sunrimoon TT31 Starship helmet is a testament to the evolution of Chinese cycling brands in the fast-paced cycling ecosystem. This isn’t a mere knockoff; it represents innovative thinking with true performance benefits and original design elements. With excellent airflow, aerodynamic efficiency, and a standout photochromic visor, it’s a serious contender for athletes seeking a triathlon-specific helmet. The bigger mainstream brands better watch out!

For $249USD, it strikes a balance between high performance and a unique aesthetic, making it a worthy investment for any triathlete or time trial competitor. Its few flaws are overshadowed by the features that matter most: comfort, speed, versatility, and overall design quality.

If you’re considering upgrading your cycling gear, the Sunrimoon TT31 Starship helmet is worth exploring. Their Michael S42 road helmet is also an eyecatcher too! Feel free to use code “henrychungfitness” for a discount.

Check out the Sunrimoon Michael S42 Aero Road Helmet here