In the world of electric bikes, where speed meets everyday convenience, one company is stepping up the game on rider protection. Rivian's new e-bike venture, known as Also, has rolled out a helmet that's more than just headgear—it's a tech-packed guardian designed to keep folks safe on the road. Dubbed the Alpha Wave Helmet, this innovation blends cutting-edge features that could change how riders think about gearing up before hitting the pavement.
For many guys who grew up riding bikes or motorcycles, safety gear often feels like an afterthought until something goes wrong. Remember the days of cruising on a pedal bike without a care? E-bikes have cranked up the stakes—they're faster, heavier, and involved in more injuries than traditional bicycles. That's where Also's approach shines. Drawing from the "ATGATT" mindset—All The Gear All The Time—this helmet aims to make protection second nature, especially for those who might skip it on slower rides.
At its core, the Alpha Wave Helmet tackles the basics with smart upgrades. It includes the Release Layer System (RLS), which steps up protection against rotational impacts during a crash. That's the kind of force that can really rattle your brain, and this tech represents a real leap forward in keeping riders in one piece. Then there's the HighBar System, a simple one-handed adjustment that locks in a snug fit without fussing around. No more fiddling with straps while you're eager to roll out—it's quick, secure, and built for real-world use.
Image credit: Also
But what sets this helmet apart is how it lights up the ride, literally. Up front, a 200-lumen headlight cuts through low-light conditions, making sure you see what's ahead on evening commutes or early morning spins. In the back, an integrated brake light signals to drivers and other riders when you're slowing down. It's a small detail, but in traffic, being visible can mean the difference between a close call and a hospital visit. These lights aren't just add-ons; they're woven into the helmet's design, powered by a USB-C charge that keeps everything running without bulky batteries.
Audio integration takes it to another level, turning the helmet into your personal command center. With four wind-shielded speakers and two noise-canceling microphones, you can crank up tunes, catch a podcast, or handle a hands-free call without missing a beat. Navigation? It delivers turn-by-turn directions right in your ear, all synced up through the e-bike's TM-B Portal and hand controls. Imagine plotting your route to the hardware store or the fishing spot, then letting the system guide you while you focus on the road. It's like having a co-pilot built in, minus the back-seat driving.
Weighing just over a pound, the helmet doesn't bog you down with extra heft, even with all that tech crammed inside. Compare it to motorcycle helmets from brands like Cardo or Shoei, which offer similar audio setups, and Also's version holds its own—especially since it adds those brake and headlight functions that aren't standard elsewhere. At $250, it's priced right in the ballpark of other smart helmets, but it delivers more bang for the buck by making safety feel essential rather than optional.
The real win here is how Also ties the helmet into the overall e-bike experience. Rivian's offshoot isn't just selling a product; it's pushing a safer riding culture. For e-bike enthusiasts—and let's face it, plenty of us are dipping into this as a fun, low-effort way to get around town—the integration makes putting on the helmet as routine as grabbing your keys. No more excuses about it being a hassle; now it's your lights, your music, and your safety net all in one.
This isn't just about e-bikes, either. The tech has folks wondering if it could spill over to motorcycles. After all, visibility is a huge issue for riders everywhere—cars cutting you off, blind spots in traffic. If motorcycle makers adopted similar brake lights and seamless integrations, it could save lives. Think about those long highway hauls or twisty backroads; extra signals could alert tailgaters in time to avoid disaster.
Personal stories drive this home. Riders who've taken spills know the value of solid gear. One enthusiast shared how helmets have shielded him from bad falls, lousy luck, and reckless drivers—sometimes all at once. It's a reminder that e-bikes, despite their casual vibe, pack enough punch to demand respect. More injuries happen on them yearly than on regular bikes, yet too many skip the helmet, figuring the speeds aren't "motorcycle-level." Wrong move. Also's design flips that script by making the helmet appealing, not annoying.
Looking ahead, this could spark a trend. As e-bikes gain traction for commuting, exercise, or just kicking around the neighborhood, innovations like the Alpha Wave push manufacturers to prioritize rider well-being. It's about enjoying the ride without the worry—whether you're dodging city potholes or exploring rural trails. For anyone who's felt the thrill of the open road, this helmet represents a step toward smarter, safer adventures.
In the end, Also's debut isn't just a product launch; it's a call to gear up properly. With features that enhance visibility, comfort, and connectivity, the Alpha Wave Helmet proves that safety doesn't have to cramp your style. It's practical tech for real riders, and at that price, it's worth considering for your next upgrade. Who knows— it might just be the piece of kit that keeps you rolling for years to come.
