It is a fair question, and Helite is upfront about the answer: no protective system can rule out every possibility of an unexpected deployment. Helite's own user guide states that in extreme situations, the system could be triggered without the rider falling. We would rather tell you that directly than make a promise the product cannot back up. That said, both systems are designed to make this uncommon.
Why it is uncommon on the mechanical system
The mechanical system needs a reasonably firm pull, in the order of 20 to 30 kilograms of force, to release the trigger. Most riders get used to clipping and unclipping the lanyard without a second thought, much like a seatbelt, and ordinary movement on or off the bike will not reach that force.
Why it is uncommon on the electronic system
The electronic system's vest sensor responds to movement, so Helite advises against sudden, exaggerated movements that are not part of normal riding, and against knocking the fork sensor unnecessarily, since either could trigger the airbag. The system also automatically goes into standby after roughly 30 to 45 seconds without movement, and needs to detect actual motorcycle speed or an impact before it can trigger, which helps rule out incidental bumps while stationary.
If it does happen
Get yourself somewhere safe. The airbag will deflate in the same way as after a genuine fall, over several minutes, or you can unscrew the cartridge to deflate it sooner. We cover exactly how long that takes and what to check before resetting it in our guide on reusing your airbag after an accident.
If you have questions about which Helite model suits your riding, get in touch with our team at contact@helite.co.nz
Frequently asked questions
Does Helite guarantee the system will never trigger without a fall?
No. Helite's own user guide states that in extreme situations, the system could be triggered without the rider falling. It is an honest tradeoff for a system built to react quickly to real falls.
What makes accidental inflation unlikely on the mechanical system?
It takes a firm pull, in the order of 20 to 30 kilograms of force, so ordinary movement will not trigger it.
What makes accidental inflation unlikely on the electronic system?
It needs to detect real motorcycle speed or an impact, and it goes into standby after 30 to 45 seconds without movement, so incidental bumps while stationary are unlikely to set it off.
What should I avoid doing while wearing the electronic vest?
Avoid sudden, exaggerated movements that are not part of normal riding, and avoid knocking the fork sensor unnecessarily.
What do I do if my airbag inflates unexpectedly?
Let it deflate on its own or unscrew the cartridge to deflate it sooner. Check the fabric before fitting a new cartridge, and get in touch with us if anything looks damaged.