Giveaway/Product News: With Aura, Neon, and Faro, the German manufacturer UNIT1 combines classic helmet protection concepts with integrated lighting and digital functions. The system is complemented by modular Smart Lights and the specially designed Torch backpack. The focus is primarily on urban use on bicycles and e-bikes. We're giving away a total of five Unit1 products of your choice!
Bicycle helmets are primarily designed to protect the rider in the event of a fall. Unit1 expands on this classic approach by adding a second element: visibility and communication in road traffic. Accordingly, the manufacturer's smart helmets feature integrated lighting and, in conjunction with the Unit1 remote control, can display turn signals and an automatic brake light. Furthermore, various settings can be managed and the individual components synchronized via the Unit1 app.
Aura: between city and more sporty use
Within the product range, the Aura is designed as a versatile smart helmet for use in urban traffic as well as for longer rides on the road. At 440 grams in the medium size, it is, according to Unit1, one of the manufacturer's lighter smart helmets. Lights are integrated at the front and rear. Various light modes can be controlled directly on the helmet or via the app.
For actual head protection, Unit1 relies on the MIPS system, which is designed to reduce rotational movements that occur in angled impact situations. The Aura meets the safety standards EN 1078 and CPSC, as well as the NTA 8776 standard, which is relevant for faster e-bikes. Unit1 therefore recommends the helmet for e-bike use up to 45 km/h. A magnetic closure and removable inner padding are also included.
The electronics provide additional functionality. Accelerometers can register a severe fall or impact. A safety countdown then starts via the Unit1 app. If there is no reaction, the so-called Crash Alert can send a text message including the location to a pre-defined emergency contact.
The lighting can be individually configured. In addition to various light modes, brightness, lighting effects, and the brake light's response can be adjusted. The manufacturer's stated battery life varies depending on the settings.
Neon: a reduced-price smart helmet for everyday use
With the Neon, Unit1 is focusing more on everyday use in urban traffic. This helmet also weighs 440 grams in a medium size and combines the MIPS system with EN 1078, CPSC, and NTA 8776 certifications. According to the manufacturer, this means the Neon is also suitable for corresponding e-bike applications up to 45 km/h.
Unlike the Aura, the Neon does not have integrated front lighting. Instead, the lighting system is focused on the rear, where the taillight, brake light, and turn signal functions are integrated. Unit1 deliberately positions the Neon as a relatively understated everyday helmet.
Also of interest is the modular design: according to the manufacturer, the electronics, housing, and straps are constructed as separate units and can be individually replaced or upgraded. Additionally, the helmet features an integrated NFC tag as a safety ID. Rescue workers can read this tag with a compatible device to access stored emergency information.
The Neon also features crash alerts, app connectivity, and synchronization with the remote control and other Unit1 components. According to the technical specifications, the integrated 1.350 mAh battery achieves varying runtimes depending on the light mode and brightness.
Faro: Lighting as part of the design
The Faro takes a different design approach. Its characteristic feature is the so-called "Hidden Light" construction: 68 RGB LEDs are located behind a textile surface and are largely concealed when the lighting is switched off. The helmet also has separate lighting zones at the front and back.
Faro, when used with the Unit1 remote control, can also display turn signals and automatic brake lights. The app allows users to customize light functions and synchronize other system components, such as the Smart Lights. Unit1 states that the helmet meets the EN 1078 and CPSC safety standards. The MIPS version also incorporates the corresponding rotational impact protection system. Unlike Aura and Neon, Faro is not certified according to NTA-8776.
At 640 grams in the medium size, Faro is heavier than Aura and Neon. The outer shell is made of ABS, with a shock-absorbing EPS layer underneath. Unit1 also specifies an IP67 protection rating for the case. Crash alert and the associated sensors are also integrated.
Smart Light: one light for front and rear
The system can be expanded beyond helmets with the Unit1 Smart Light. This compact light can be used as both a front and rear light. A quarter turn switches between functions. In front mode, it delivers 100 lumens of white light, while in rear mode it provides 50 lumens of red light.
Various magnetic mounts allow for attachment to handlebars, saddles, helmets, backpacks, or torches, for example. A single light weighs 41,7 grams. According to the manufacturer, the 570 mAh battery provides up to 32 hours of runtime, depending on operating mode and brightness. The Smart Light Pro Dual's runtime can be further extended with the charging case.
Up to four smart lights can be connected to the Unit1 app via Bluetooth. They can also be synchronized with a compatible smart helmet and handlebar remote. This allows, for example, multiple lights to function together as turn signals or brake lights.
Torch: Backpack with integrated light storage
With the Torch, Unit1 transfers its lighting concept to a commuter backpack. The model offers 23 liters of volume and features an integrated magnetic mount on the back for a Smart Light. The light itself is sold separately. In combination with a Smart Helmet, this allows for two spatially separate lighting zones on the helmet and backpack.
Unit1 uses materials such as 500D Cordura, water-repellent coatings, and waterproof zippers in its construction. The backpack opens fully and features separate organizational compartments, including two laptop sleeves and sections for wet and dry items. Padded shoulder straps, a contoured back panel, and compression hooks are designed to keep the load close to the body while cycling.
When the Smart Light is used with the Unit1 remote control on the Torch, turn signal and brake light functions can also be implemented on the backpack. Sensors in the remote control detect deceleration and can trigger the brake light.
Integrated approach instead of individual components
Aura, Neon, and Faro differ primarily in their intended use, construction, and the extent of their integrated lighting. However, their common denominator lies in their system concept. The helmet, additional smart lights, remote control, and torch backpack can be linked together, extending the passive protective function of a helmet with additional visibility and signaling capabilities.
Aura is geared more towards users seeking a lighter and more versatile helmet for city riding, e-biking, and longer journeys, while Neon applies the concept to a minimalist, everyday urban helmet. Faro, with its large, integrated RGB LEDs, places particular emphasis on lighting. Smart Light and Torch ultimately extend this approach beyond the helmet itself.
Win your desired Unit1 product!
We're giving away five Unit1 products of your choice for more protection and visibility in your everyday life!
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Closing date: August 29, 2026