The mechanical system is Helite's original airbag trigger technology, and it remains a popular option for riders who want a straightforward, battery free setup. Here is how it works, from a normal ride through to resetting it after a fall.
How it triggers
A lanyard connects your vest or jacket to the motorcycle, working in a similar way to a seatbelt in a car. If you are thrown clear of the bike in a fall, the pull on the lanyard releases a key-ball that punctures the CO2 cartridge, and the airbag inflates in under 100 milliseconds. Because the system responds to physical separation rather than speed, it can trigger at any speed, including from a stop. The exact force needed to release the key-ball varies with the size of the vest. We cover every part of the system, including the release pin and key-ball, in our parts guide.
Setting it up
The lanyard needs to be anchored to a solid point on the motorcycle and adjusted to the right length, since this affects how quickly the airbag deploys. We walk through exactly where to anchor it and how to set the length in our tether strap installation guide.
Daily use
Clip the lanyard to your vest or jacket before you ride, the same habit as putting on a seatbelt, and disconnect it before you get off the bike. There is no charging, no switches, and no other setup required. The system is ready the moment it is connected.
Resetting after a fall
If the fabric is undamaged, the mechanical system can be reset in a couple of minutes by fitting a new cartridge. We cover the full step by step, for both the quick version and the detailed internal reset, in separate guides.
Keeping it in good condition
An annual check of the cartridge and trigger components keeps the system reliable. We cover the full annual check process in our maintenance guide.
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 the mechanical system need a battery?
No. There is no battery and nothing to charge, so the system works the same whether it is brand new or several years old.
Can it trigger by accident?
It is uncommon, since it takes a reasonably firm pull to release the mechanism. We go into this in full, alongside the electronic system, in a dedicated guide.
What happens if I forget to unclip before getting off the bike?
The system is designed to activate whenever you are pulled away from the motorcycle, so it is worth building the habit of disconnecting the lanyard every time before you dismount, in the same way you would undo a seatbelt.
Do I need to recharge the mechanical system?
No. Since there is no battery, there is nothing to charge or run out of.
How long has this design been in use?
Helite has been refining the mechanical airbag system since the company's early years, and it remains available alongside the newer electronic system rather than being phased out.