Italian helmet manufacturer AGV is celebrating 20 years of Valentino Rossi world-class race wins with a special tribute helmet.
Rossi has only worn AGV helmets throughout his racing career. All have been designed by Aldo Drudi, who became friends with Vale’s father, Graziano, when he was racing from 1977 to ‘82.
Aldo Drudi with Rossi AGV helmetsAldo has been a family friend ever since and has designed all of Rossi’s helmets.
The common design element is a smiling red sun on one side with a snarling yellow moon on the other
A sun and moon have been on Rossi’s helmets since his world debut at the 1996 Malaysian 125cc GP where he finished sixth.
The theme is said to reflect Vale’s sunny disposition as well as his dark, competitive side.
There have been many variants on the theme. Rossi changes his helmet multiple times during a season to reflect different venues or events in his career.
One of the most famous was the screaming Rossi face on the top. It was designed for the 2008 Mugello GP to represent what it is like to ride around the famous Italian circuit.
Rossi’s Mugello helmetThe sun and moon are again incorporated in the tribute helmet. It is a salute to his first victory in the 125cc category in 1997.
AGV Pista GP R
It is based on the Pista GP R carbon helmet, but with visible carbon areas and neon yellow rather than solid yellow.
AGV Pista GP R with hydration systemThe Pista GP R is the first helmet to feature a hydration cooling system allowing riders to sip liquid while riding. 
It scores a maximum five stars in the UK’s respected Safety Helmet Assessment and Rating Programme (SHARP).
There is no word on the Euro-approved helmet being available in Australia yet. When it does, expect to pay about $2000.