Bell helmets, named after their original home in Bell, California, are an American crash helmet manufacturer that began producing car racing helmets in 1954 and then moved on to motorcycle helmets in 1968 with the release of their first Star model.
Bell has always had a strong motorsport background, and they now make a wide selection of helmets for all types of riding, from open face helmets to full-on track helmets, and they’ve consistently placed high in our safest helmet brand surveys since our surveys began. On these pages, you’ll find all of our Bell helmet reviews.
The Best Bell Motorcycle Helmet Review & Buying Guide
1. Bell Helmet Moto-9 Flex
Specifications
- Brand: BELL
- Model: Moto-9 Flex Dirt Helmet
- Item Weight: 4.8 pounds
- Item model number: Moto-9 Flex Dirt Helmet
- Safety Rating: DOT Certified
Pros
Very comfortable for the price Quiet compared to others Looks cool; no naff graphics The integrated sun visor is exceedingly useful Inexpensive Velvety padding has pop fasteners like an Arai, not cheap velcro
Cons
Lifting the main visor gets notchy Sunshade visor lever sticks sometimes (probably dust) Peak wants to be lower/longer to be an effect of low-sun shade
Features
- Flex Energy Management interior liner with integrated vented roost guard
- Magnefusion Emergency Removal System magnetic cheek pads
- Lightweight carbon composite shell construction with DOT & Snell M2015 certifications that are all backed up by an Industry-leading five-year warranty
- Velocity Flow Ventilation system for maximum cooling, fully adjustable Flying Bridge Visor with air intake vents
- DOT approved. Meets the FMVSS 218 Standard
Description
Our objective has been to innovate and advance the science of protection since the original Bell helmet, always seeking to bring technologies to the table that set the standard for impact and energy management. The Moto-9 Flex is the fittest of the fittest. A three-layer impact liner that is a first of its type uses several densities of material to disperse impact energy more evenly and limit rotational energy transfer. The Moto-9’s flexible, segmented liner provides a more tailored fit for a wider range of head shapes while also providing greater airflow throughout the helmet. The Moto-9 Flex is our most advanced helmet yet, and it’s raising the bar for rider safety in motocross and off-road racing. The Department of Transportation has given its approval. Meets FMVSS 218 requirements.
2. Bell Star DLX MIPS Helmet
Specifications
- Size: X-Large
- Color: Shockwave Matte/Gloss Black/Candy Red
- Uses For: Motorcycling
- Brand: BELL
- Inner Material: Expanded Polystyrene
- Model: Star Dlx Mips Helmet
- Item Weight: 6.04 pounds
- Safety Rating: DOT Certified
Pros
ProTint shield is to die for Great, snug fit for intermediate ovals Great style and graphics
Cons
The shield mechanism can be finicky Snug ingress and egress Pricing has crept up with the tech
Features
- Trimatrix Composite Shell Construction
- X-Static XT2 Silver Liner
- Bell Protint Photochromic Shield Technology
- Magnefusion Magnetic Cheek Pads
- DOT approved. Meets the FMVSS 218 Standard
Description
The Star, first introduced in 1967 as the first full-face helmet on the market, is a continuation of that original spirit, as well as more. It’s a total reimagining of what a race helmet should be, drawing inspiration from the core needs of the modern racer and equipped with quality features like TriMatrix composite shell, MIPS energy management, and XStatic lining, and Panovision Class 1 optics. Bell ProTint Photochromic Shield is included. The Department of Transportation has given its approval. FMVSS 218 Standard Compliant
3. Bell Bullitt Carbon Full-Face Helmet
Specifications
- Size: Large
- Color: Matte Carbon
- Uses For: Motorcycling
- Brand: BELL
- Model: Bullitt Carbon
- Item Weight: 5.01 pounds
- Safety Rating: DOT Certified
Pros
Three shell sizes EPS protection Built-in flip-up face shield included and is easily removed Interchangeable face shields and replacement parts widely available Double-D ring strap 5-year warranty
Cons
Ineffective ventilation Excessive wind noise when face shield flipped up Gloss finish is easily scratched
Features
- 3 low-profile carbon composite shells and EPS sizes that are DOT certified and backed by an industry-leading five-year warranty
- Deluxe helmet bag included
- Contoured cheek pads with integrated speaker pockets and removable interior
- Front chin vents with metal mesh intake and exhaust vents
- DOT approved. Meets the FMVSS 218 Standard
Description
CARBON LIGHTWEIGHT CLASSIC BULLITT The Bullitt is a modern spin on the original Bell Star helmet, inspired by the very first one. The Bullitt is the ideal helmet for riders looking for a retro appearance with full-face protection. It has an outstanding fit and ultra-high quality detailing. A flat dark smoke shield is included with the RSD Bagger. Additional flat silver iridium shield is included with Carbon Matte. TECHNOLOGIES: Carbon Composite Shell with Low Profile. For a custom fit, there are three shell and EPS sizes. Metal mesh intake and exhaust vents on the front chin. Genuine leather interior, removable/washable, antibacterial. Cheek pads with contours. Leather D-ring closure with padded chin strap. Speaker pockets built-in. Magnetic strap keeper by Magnefusion. Accessory shields are available for a more customized appearance. A flat shield is also supplied. Industry-leading warranty: 5 years DOT, ECE, AS CERTIFICATION
4. Bell Qualifier Helmet
Specifications
- Size: Large
- Color: Ascent Matte Black/Gray
- Brand: BELL
- Outer Material: Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, Polycarbonate
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 14 x 12 x 12 inches
- Model: Bell Qualifier Helmet
- Item Weight: 4.64 pounds
- Safety Rating: DOT Certified
Pros
Affordable Reported comfortable across the board by users A good field of vision Nice look and plenty of cool visual options to buy Internal speaker pockets (the recent version of the helmet don’t include the Sena communicator compartment anymore) 5-year Bell warranty
Cons
The shield may flip open on its own at highway speed Across the board, users complained about the wind noise of this helmet. Top ventilation vents are reported to rattle for some users.
Features
- The helmet is shown with an optional tinted shield. (Ships with a clear shield only)
- Velocity Flow Ventilation system with FlowAdjust
- Lightweight Polycarbonate/ABS Shell Construction. A padded wind collar drastically reduces wind and road noise
- NutraFog II UV-protected shield which is a ClickRelease shield for fast, easy, and tool-free shield replacement
- DOT approved. Meets the FMVSS 218 Standard
Description
The Qualifier delivers great performance at an incredible value, with features drawn directly from our premium Star range. It has aggressive styling, NutraFog II transparent shield, Velocity Flow ventilation, a removable liner, integrated speaker pockets, and a cushioned wind collar, in addition to excellent fit and comfort. The Department of Transportation has given its approval. Meets FMVSS 218 requirements.
5. Bell Custom 500 Adult Street Motorcycle Helmet
Specifications
- Size: Small
- Color: Ace Cafe 59 Gloss Black/White
- Uses For: Motorcycling
- Brand: BELL
- Vehicle Service Type: Motorcycle
- Model Name: Bell Custom 500 Helmet
- Material: Fiberglass
- Safety Rating: DOT Certified
Pros
Leather D-ring pull tab Matt black quality finish Padded chin strap Five-year warranty
Cons
Minor airflow issues More expensive than other models
Features
- 5 shell and eps liner sizes ensure a low profile look
- Multi-density eps liner
- Integrated 5 snap patterns for aftermarket shields and visors
- Padded chin strap with D-ring closure and strap keeper
- DOT Approved. Meets the FMVSS 218 standard.
Description
Bell returned to the lab to upgrade the iconic Custom 500 just when you thought it couldn’t get any better. The Custom 500 now fits better and appears smaller on your head than ever before thanks to a redesigned head form. There will be no more bobbleheads. The Bell Custom 500 helmet’s thin-profile shell allows it to rest lower on the head, and with five shell and EPS sizes, you can get the appearance you desire with the right fit. A low-profile appearance is ensured by five shell and EPS lining sizes. 5 snap patterns integrated for aftermarket shields and visors. Chinstrap is padded and has a D-ring fastening and a strap keeper. Liner made of multi-density EPS. The Department of Transportation has given its approval. The FMVSS 218 standard is met. D-ring closure in stainless steel. D-ring pulls tab made of leather. Warranty of five years………..
Bell’s Multi-Directional Impact Protection System
Bell’s Multi-Directional Impact Protection Technology (MIPS) uses a slip-plane system inside the helmet to reduce rotational forces. Inside the helmet, this layer spins, reducing the amount of force transferred to and from the head. This translates to less brain movement and a lower risk of serious injury.
Bell Helmets are not only one of the most famous brands on the market, but they’re also one of the safest, with a proven track record for ultimate protection, cutting-edge design, and unmatched quality. They also happen to have a fairly interesting appearance.
Bell Helmet Warranty
From the date of purchase, all Bell motorcycle helmets are covered by a 5-year warranty. This covers quality issues as well as the materials used. During this time, if the original owner returns the defective part or product with evidence of purchase, Bell Helmets will fix, replace, or refund the purchase price. Accidents, misuse, abuse, modification, improper repair, water damage, heat damage, negligence, inappropriate handling/storage, or failure to follow directions for usage do not fall within the guarantee.
Bell Helmets manufactures some of the most durable, dependable, and comfortable motorcycle helmets available. The firm has manufactured robust protective helmets for street racers, track racers, dirt racers, and everyday riders all around the world for the past 60 years.
A list of some of our favourite Bell helmets has been compiled. These are the finest of the best from the company, providing the best protection, value for money, as well as comfort, and appearance. Choose one of these Bell Helmets all-American lids if you wish to buy an all-American lid.
It also has all of the best Bell Motorcycle Helmets accessories, including the Magnefusion systems, intelligent ventilation systems, 3D cut cheek cushions, detachable anti-bacterial linings, and all of the bells and whistles you’d expect from a premium helmet. If you haven’t guessed, this helmet is also Snell M2015 and DOT certified, as you’d expect from a $649.95 helmet.
Although it is pricey, it is without a doubt one of our favourite Bell helmets on the market. If you prefer to ride at high speeds, however, you’d be better suited with something like the Bullitt Carbon…or anything without a visor on top. Nonetheless, it’s one of the best Bell helmets on the market.
About Bell Helmets
Bell is one of the most well-known and well-respected manufacturers of motorcycle helmets. Since 1957, the American company has been creating helmets and has introduced a flood of revolutionary new designs that have propelled the market to where it is now. Their current lineup covers a wide range of motorcycle designs, but our favorites are the Culture helmets, which include the genre-defining Bullitt full face, classic off-road homage Moto 3, and elegant open face Custom 500.
This is just a sampling of our favourite Bell items. The company offers a wide assortment of bike helmets, including full-face and open-face variants. They provide modular bike helmets for dual sport riders, compact open face helmets, full-on motocross helmets for dirt bike lovers, professional auto racing protection, and a wide range of helmet accessories.
They even have gift certificates for those wishing to give a motorcycle enthusiast the ultimate present! Furthermore, Bell has a long reputation for excellent customer service, so don’t hesitate to contact them if you have a question. Bell helmet sizing is one of the most often requested issues, so here’s a chart to help you out. If you’re unsure, phone customer care and they’ll help you figure out your skull size.
Final Thoughts
The Bell Moto-9 Flex is one of the best, if not the best, MX helmets on the market, and it incorporates several of Bell Helmets’ sophisticated technologies to create a product that provides unrivaled protection and comfort.
One of the most durable helmets on the market is the Bell Star MIPS. It is built for high-speed travel. Although it isn’t the most aerodynamic design, the Bullitt is a good all-around helmet with throwback aesthetics.
Bell’s Qualifier is a budget-friendly four-season helmet with a slew of technical features, but it’s not as tough as the others. Finally, the Bell Custom 500 is reasonably priced, has a vintage appearance, and provides adequate protection for an open-face helmet.
Bell is one of the greatest helmet manufacturers in the world because of its constant innovation in helmet design. They make some of the safest helmets on the market and are preferred by motorsports drivers and riders. There’s little doubt that you’ll be able to find the perfect helmet for you, with helmets to suit every riding style.
Bell Helmet FAQs
Q. Are Bell Helmets made in the USA?
A. Bell has plants in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Asia, and Europe. The majority of Bell motorcycle helmets are made in the company’s Rantoul, Illinois facility. “Assembled in the USA from components made in China and the USA,” a statement on genuine American-made helmets reads.
Q. Are there discount (cheap) models available?
A. Bell is a high-end brand with a wide range of helmet prices. They’ve adjusted to the market and now offer both high-end and low-cost models. Their Custom 500 is one of the most cost-effective models on the market, with an amazing combination of features and characteristics.
Q. Are there vintage models for sale?
A. The Bell Qualifier DLX Helmet and the Carbon Adult Bullitt are only two of Bell’s classic models. The company released a slew of throwback helmets, even going so far as to upgrade some of their initial models.
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