First Ride: Bell Super 2R Helmet

Sep 30, 2014 at 22:11
by Mike Kazimer  
Bell Super 2R

Bell Super 2R Helmet

There's never been a better time to be a mountain biker. Thanks to advances in frame and suspension technology, trails that were once ruled by heavy DH rigs are now doable on the latest batch of all-mountain bikes, allowing riders to push their limits on both the climbs and the descents. In response to the growing number of riders who are venturing into more and more technical terrain, or testing the waters of the enduro race scene, Bell created the Super 2R, a full-face helmet with a chin bar that can be removed for the climbs. It's meant to fill the gap between a half shell helmet and a dedicated full face, giving riders the ability to have greater coverage but without needing to carry two separate helmets.

Details

• In-Mold Polycarbonate shell
• Detachable chin bar
• CE EN1078, CPSC Bicycle certified
• Sizes: S, M, L
• Weight (with chinbar, size L): 780g
• Six color options
• MSRP: $200 USD, $220 with MIPS

Bell Super 2R

The Super 2R's chin bar wraps completely around the helmet, and is secured in three places by ski boot buckle style closures.


Design and Construction

At the heart of the new helmet is an updated version of the Super, Bell's all-mountain / enduro lid that was released in 2013. The helmet's shell and EPS liner have been modified slightly, mainly in the area directly above the ears, in order to create a spot for the chin bar to mount on to. The chin bar completely encircles the helmet (Bell calls this 'Wraparound Protection'), with three ski boot-style buckles, one at the rear and two at the sides, to lock it into place. Installing and removing the chin bar doesn't require any tools, and can be accomplished without taking the helmet off. Other features include a breakaway camera mount, a ratcheting dial to adjust the fit around the head, and Bell's Overbrow Ventilation, which is designed to direct air over the top of the skull to provide additional cooling. The helmet itself has 23 vents, not including the 6 vents found on the chin bar. The Super 2R also has an adjustable visor with enough range of motion to fit a pair of goggles on the top of the helmet when they're not in use.

Bell Super 2R

The helmet is based around an updated version of the Super, which will also be available for purchase without the chin bar.


Certification

The Super 2R is CPSC and CE EN1078 certified, but does not have the ASTM F1952 endorsement that is used to certify downhill helmets. That doesn't mean that the chin bar is superfluous, and you can be sure that Bell conducted their own in-house testing to ensure its integrity, but the ASTM F1952 requires a level of penetration resistance that a helmet with as many vents as the Super would be unable to achieve.

Kelend Hawks

Kelend Hawks gives the Super 2R a try during the Oregon Enduro Series Finals.


On the Trail

Bell had a number of helmets on hand at the last round of the Oregon Enduro Series, which took place on trails of the Mount Hood Skibowl and Sandy Ridge, giving us the opportunity try the new system on a number of rides and in a race setting. After only a few tries, installing or removing the chin bar became second nature, and all it entails is making sure the buckles are open, guiding it into the two vent holes on the rear of the helmet, and then securing the buckles, working from front to back. With a little practices, it was only a matter of seconds before everything was in place and the conversion was complete. When climbing, it was easy to stash the chin bar in a backpack or loop it over the waist belt of a fanny pack. On its own, the chin bar weighs 350 grams, about the weight of a light XC helmet.

Riders who have spent time with the Super won't find any surprises with the fit of the new version - the shape is relatively unchanged. As far as half shell helmets go, the Super is a little on the heavier side, but with the chin bar installed the helmet felt well balanced, and very light for a full face. We were even able to witness a bit of real life crash testing, when one of Bell's employees took a high speed header on a trail at the Mt. Hood Skibowl. He was shaken up, and had crashed hard enough to crack the shell of his helmet, but his jaw and all of his pearly whites remained intact, which might not have been the case had he been wearing only a half shell.


Pinkbike's Take:
bigquotesIt's too early to comment on the durability of the Super 2R's construction, which is why we have one on hand for long term testing, but so far we're impressed with the helmet's execution. The chin bar attaches quickly and securely, with no wiggling or rattling, and it's well integrated with the rest of the helmet. For riders who envision themselves as being the next Red Bull Rampage champion, and fall asleep dreaming about hucking backflips over canyons, the Super 2R probably isn't the best choice, but for anyone who's ever struggled to decide whether or not to bring their full face helmet on a ride, the Super 2R makes the decision process a little bit easier. - Mike Kazimer


www.bellhelmets.com

Author Info:
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Member since Feb 1, 2009
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197 Comments
  • 102 8
 i fall asleep thinking of the day when ill be able to ride with no helmet and when i crash they'll just make a clone of me
  • 99 8
 Your abandonment of ego and selflessness are truly inspiring. Namaste
  • 204 4
 I dream of the day people can be cloned so you can legitimately tell them to go f**k themselves.
  • 8 2
 ^^^^ hahahaha
  • 17 0
 @bigtim: That's the best Arnold quote reference ever! Big Grin

For those of you, not in the know: www.youtube.com/watch?v=5NGMQvM8faw
  • 32 0
 But if they cloned you, it wouldn't be you any more. It would be your clone. You would be dead and that bastard would be riding your bike. And your girlfriend. Same reason I would never get in a teleporter if they ever invent one....
  • 6 5
 HAHAHAHAHHAHAHA ^
  • 29 1
 If I could clone myself, I'd be so happy...I'd be beside myself! ha ha
  • 5 3
 I love this helmet idea and it doesn't look bad at all surprisingly but these comments are pure gold. I haven't laughed at any posts like that in a while.
  • 4 0
 The way I ride, my wife would have a pile of broken clones!
  • 8 1
 ^ as long as the fingers still work, she'll be stoked.
  • 1 0
 i dream of the day my bike could be cloned...
  • 45 0
 I just grew a really thick beard. It works a treat. Ventilation is great and it even holds items of leftover food for an extra snack should I get peckish during my ride.
  • 6 0
 you should get in touch with Mr Masters to discuss what style is fastest!
  • 4 1
 beards are super (hashtag)enduro
  • 35 1
 So many Negative Nancies.
  • 26 0
 Whining Wendys?
  • 28 0
 Complaining Carls?
  • 49 1
 Twatty Tims? ..... Oh.... Frown
  • 16 60
flag wolf-amongst-lambs (Oct 1, 2014 at 5:07) (Below Threshold)
 c*ntish cates... (booyah)
  • 12 0
 Angry Alfreds?
  • 12 0
 Bitchy bobby?
  • 19 0
 moaning Myrtle??
  • 214 0
 ^^ Are you guys just naming new Schwalbe products?
  • 5 3
 ^ BAHAHA, that's awesome.
  • 3 0
 Vile Violets?
  • 3 57
flag wolf-amongst-lambs (Oct 1, 2014 at 9:36) (Below Threshold)
 Hey man. Stop neg'ing mine- It's the best one and you know it!
  • 9 0
 it's because you misspelled Kate, yeah that's it
  • 7 0
 The next Schwalbe tires should be seriously be named the "bitchin' bobbys"
  • 18 0
 Or Crappy Christoph because the knobs fly off after a few weeks.
  • 4 20
flag wolf-amongst-lambs (Oct 1, 2014 at 14:16) (Below Threshold)
 Lmao. Oh you bunch of assholes!!!
  • 25 1
 After doing the Mavic Trans Provence last week I'm sure, that this helmet will get a lot of fans riding real trails and earning their ride. I brought two helmets with me but would have loved to just bring this one.
  • 3 0
 Can only agree with you 100%, I only brought one helmet for the Trans Savoie, a Cratoni Shake Down with removable
Chin guard, but you need to use a Allen key to remove so it takes time. So didn't do more than 2 or 3 times for the long and hot liason stages. This helmet would be perfect for my needs.
  • 3 0
 And the cratoni is hot as hell, even in half lid, with a very flimsy chin guard.
  • 26 2
 My girlfriend certainly has me covered in the penetration resistance department. I think I'll just have to buy this and whack off.
  • 20 0
 Get a new girlfriend.
  • 25 0
 This only works until the wife finds out.
  • 33 7
 Holy shit Pb comments are so dumb
  • 12 0
 Fortunately have your comment, which is a beacon of sophistication..
  • 23 17
 Never been a better time to .....what!? ....Seriously?! ....is that a joke?
Back in the day an xtr derailleur was $100 not $200. Gas was cheaper. People were nice. Bikes didn't qualify as housing down payments and didn't require selling my soul and left nut to the devil. Now I can buy a bike with a motor for the same cost. ....or I could finally get a nice tractor for the farm and buy a few cords of wood plus chicken feed.
  • 22 1
 An XTR derailleur is a lot more money, yes but that's inflation. Plus a $100 derailleur now is a lot better than an XTR was "back in the day".

People tend to react to others the way they are treated, maybe you have gotten bitter as you have got older (it sure sounds like it.)
  • 15 1
 Don't know about you but I earn exponentially more money than i did " back in the day" And i have a hell of a lot more shiny stuff now than then........
  • 13 25
flag EastCoastDHer (Oct 1, 2014 at 4:59) (Below Threshold)
 I just can't justify spending this type of money on a leisure sport when there are other factors at stake such as putting food on my table. From an economic standpoint bicycles cost money with little to no monetary return. Farm equipment at least puts food on my table. When I was younger bikes were cool because I had no bills. Now I have bills and a business to run. No more spending on items I don't need. Its called being wise. Not bitter. People as yourself however are one of the main reasons I stopped racing. Too quick to pass judgement. I suggest you understand everyone lives and fights different battles for different reasons so until you've walked a mile or even a step in their shoes relax. For the record the xtr derailleur I bought in NY in 2000 still shifts like its new even after 8 years of riding.
  • 14 28
flag EastCoastDHer (Oct 1, 2014 at 5:02) (Below Threshold)
 Cool story. Just exactly how much of that "shiny stuff" will fit in your grave?
More important how much of that "shiny stuff" is helping you give back to your local community and fellow mankind?
  • 53 2
 Actually, lots of shiny things will fit in graves. That's why we know so much about ancient history.
  • 14 2
 Its funny how people rationalize the cost of the bikes they have. EastcoastDHer makes a very valid point. I purchased a Brand new 09 yamaha R6 a prior year hold over for $7500 out the door. When a New Santa cruz nomad without Enve wheels is going for the same cost it seems unreal. The cost of MTB's seems insane when you compare t to the cost of motorcycles. Granted thats not all motos. Heres a good example though.

www.santacruzbicycles.com/en/us/nomad

www.eastbaymotorsports.com/new_vehicle_detail.asp?veh=380639&pov=3739242
  • 22 1
 Guys, stop complaining about the price of bikes, we all know biking is expensive. So why are we on an mtb website then? Oh yeah, because biking makes us happy! It really doesn't matter how much money you put into it.
  • 2 0
 Just close your eyes and say aaaaaaaaahhhh! Hahahahaha and then pay your bike for 6 years and shred the shit out of it every single one!
  • 13 1
 If you don't want to spend $7,000 on a bike there are plenty of cheaper options on the market for $3,000 or even less for a used one like I bought! The manufacturing techniques, materials, and engineering that go into the higher end models equate to higher MSRP's (and don't forget all the marketing BS). So stop your bitching and go ride your bikes!
  • 10 12
 All this talk about what's fiscally responsible, inflation, and what you take with you to your grave. .. so let's all be communist. Work for food and housing. Fuck that. I make 80 g's a year and I have a hobby. A lil expensive at times, but I look at the Grand or so I bolted to my project in the last 6 weeks, and I fucking smile. I think about the other grand or so I still need to finish her off, and I wish I could spend it all right now, coz I know how much bigger that smile will be. I do this for ME. Coz I like it. Go drive a walmart bike if yer not into this hobby
  • 9 0
 1. Motos have a huge advantage due to economies of scale, because of their own higher sales numbers, & the advantages they gain from R&D on other types of motorcycle.
2. a $7500 nomad is more akin to a semi-pro race moto, or maybe a privateer pro moto, than it is a stock model. Race bikes can cost up to $150000, at least from what I understand.
3. using your money on things that benefit others is well & good, but spending money on something you love, even if it's "recreation" is both acceptable, & of real benefit to your mental health, which in turn improves your ability to produce in your chosen profession. Seriously, they've been doing studies on it for probably 100 years.
  • 10 1
 East coast dhr, you sound like pure joy
  • 5 1
 while I agree with grog on all points I feel he is ignoring the most glaring economical benefit of a motorcycle that could save any single man thousands of dollars a year. Motorcycles can save a great deal of money spent on women at bars since you can at any point (and to almost any woman in the bar) say "hey, wanna get outta here and take a ride on my motorcycle" and they will quit ordering drinks that cost money and leave with you.
  • 3 5
 here is the issue with the price increases it's not the fact that they have gone up it's the rate at which they have increased. A few years ago you would look at a top of the line full suspension bike was in the $5000 range but now we are looking at $10,000 and above. That's a %100 increase in 4-5 years. Yes suspension design/materials etc have all improved but they always have and not for the costs we are looking at today.

The mountain biking is expensive attitude is crap as it wasnt always this way.
  • 5 0
 i just spent 2700 on a new bike.. that is about the same price as therapy, twice a week for a year (my bike will last longer for sure)..

Sure its a lot of money, but happiness is worth it..and bikes make me happy. I don't need the highest end bike and my new ride is certainly a very nice bike. I did my homework, bought it used (although it never hit dirt). Its got a pike and some fancy features, but no XTR.

I don't know why people feel the need to spend upwards of 5k on a bike, but if they can afford it, who cares.
  • 12 3
 $100 in 1992 (the year XTR was released) is worth roughly $162 today. So (assuming it really was $100 back then) the cost of an XTR derailleur (MSRP) has outpaced inflation by roughly 22%. Having said that - I don't know a single soul that has paid full MSRP of $200 for an XTR derailleur.

TO the point that an XTR from 1992 is inferior to the XTR from 2014... that is definitely true - but the R&D costs and manufacturing costs should be going down, while the cost of materials should theoretically match inflation. If that is true, we should be getting better and better components for cheaper (assuming margins stay the same). Since this has not happened, all we can assume is that margins have gone up.

HOWEVER - something you may not realize is that a 2013 SLX derralleur is still better than a 1992 XTR derailleur. An SLX derralleur has an MSPR of $80. $80 today was worth $45 in 1992. So all things considered, biking components have gotten cheaper where quality does not improve.

NOW - what does this mean? It means that YOU aren't driven to buy new components or bikes as they get cheaper (but maintain quality), you are driven to buy the BEST bikes and components every year. You are paying for the improvements in quality because you are driven to buy whatever the BEST thing is, rather than driven to buy the same quality year over year.

So stop bitching. If you want the quality of 1992 XTR you can certainly get it much cheaper than it cost you back in 1992. If you want the quality of 2014 XTR - you better be willing to pay for it. Of course, in between options always exist (think XT)
  • 1 0
 why are you moaning if you enjoy this sport does it matter how much a deraliur costs yourl enjoy mtbing more with an xtr than a acera you don't have to get an xtr mech its more enjoyable with better components
  • 10 1
 it's like standing in front of a ferrari dealership picketing for lower prices.
  • 3 3
 People keep buying bikes/bike parts at ridiculous prices, bike companies are going to continue to raise prices until people stop buying. Spread the word
  • 4 0
 Fullbug just said it all
  • 2 3
 You think I have time to read through every single comment on here?
  • 1 0
 @Warburrito

I'm not sure your expected outcome is going to happen, when you walk outside & they see your mud covered dirt moto. Razz
  • 2 1
 m.pinkbike.com/news/custom-evil-undead-cancer-fundraiser-2014.html "giving back to your community and helping fellow mankind"
  • 1 1
 Just for you, buttercup! Wink
  • 4 0
 I like the idea of the removable face protector. Especially for enduro enjoyment when there is no need when uphilling. Still the question is what to do with this part removed. Maybe it would be worth to think about a way to slide or rotate it to the back of the helmet. The other feature I am searching for in fullface helmets all the time is a comfortable space for headphones.
  • 2 7
flag wolf-amongst-lambs (Oct 1, 2014 at 14:13) (Below Threshold)
 Just remember, jedrzeja. Polish that helmet, or it'll just stay dirty
  • 3 0
 I can understand you're trying to refer to the latest ambiguous linguistic misunderstanding, which revealed to be semi funny, but I have in fact lost my struggling to appreciate your point, relating to the actual situation. There is a new helmet presentation above, to the occasion of which, I intended to add my observations, or rather expectations addressing designers, or producers and I kindly regret to follow the relevance of yours, that I still suspect and estimate to be aimed at politeness.
  • 1 8
flag wolf-amongst-lambs (Oct 1, 2014 at 14:46) (Below Threshold)
 Lol. You just fell right into that one, dude! Way to string together a phrase, btw... don't think I didn't notice. Kudos to yer high-school English teacher
  • 2 0
 Everything's balanced mate. It is always nice to have a chat in the comment section. By the way you have just made me remind myself my favourite English teacher. There were several of them and I can hardly tell any name now. I remember the favourite one because of his recommendation of a dictionary (Collins I think) back in the days. After a year or so, we found out that his one of its actual authors. His name is Jacek Witkoś and I have just learned that he's now the chancelor of the University in my town. Here's the picture. amu.edu.pl/dzialalnosc/o-uam/wladze/prorektorzy/prorektor-witko?SQ_PAINT_LAYOUT_NAME=blad I find funny the way he looks in it. He's a great man. It was the time when I used to hope there is some brighter future for me than it is now, but it ain't over untill the fat lady sings. Anyway how do you know I studied English in high-school?
  • 1 1
 Hah! Here's another one. wa.amu.edu.pl/wa/rysiewicz_jacek Taught me Phonetics. He never changed. All right, this is it. I am not gonna pay any more attention to your interrupting me with my responsible work here. I'm supposed to be the chosen one of public trust.
  • 1 2
 Ha! OK then... been a blast as usual
  • 6 1
 Disclaimer: This helmet was funded by the Dentist association and the association of maxofacial surgeons.
  • 6 2
 Then I'm wondering who funded my nearest trail because there are more rocks on it than in a Palestinian ammunition storehouse.
  • 2 0
 "Palestinian ammunition storehouse."
  • 1 0
 I think it's a great training helmet - confidence inspiring for trying the lines you know well a bit faster or new lines on your home trails. When race weekend arrives, I'll bear the couple pounds to carry a fully certified DH helmet. As mentioned in the first paragraph, we're riding DH trails and near the same pace as guys were 5-10years ago. Safety is the first concern so I think the Super 2R for my training, my A1 for lighter rides and XC stuff and D2 or D3 for race!
  • 8 3
 The Giro Switchblade screwed this helmet's chances at success.
  • 5 3
 I still got a switchblade, don't use it much. but a bad chin guard is better than no chin guard. This looks a lot better and would consider it for north shore riding, but not for Whistler park use.
  • 9 4
 not really bad chin guards are dangerous they can STAB YOU IN DA FACE
  • 3 1
 is them stabbing you in the face anymore likely than a rock or branch on the ground where you wreck stabbing you in the face?
  • 2 3
 what if it was on concreate
  • 3 1
 Hmm...guaranteed smashing of my face into concrete vs RISK of my chin bar stabbing my face? I'll take the risk over the guarantee any day of the week.
  • 13 1
 you still have a giro switchblade? and you use it? woah, are you worried about having all your computer info backed up when we reach the year 2000?
  • 1 0
 Yea, the Switchblade and the Super2 are not in the same league...I may be a bit worried about getting stabbed in the face by one of those...
  • 1 3
 stat.ameba.jp/user_images/20091229/09/yumzk/d8/bb/j/o0640047910357001097.jpg
  • 1 1
 Ya I think RISK of getting stabbed in the face is better the FOR SURE broken jaw from ground impact. I thought wine and helmets are the same....they get better with age. My Switchblade is a 2002 vintage, I think that was a good year???
  • 1 0
 haha awesome. fair play lunk, hopefully you'll never have to test your switchblade.
  • 6 5
 Too flimsy and not full face certified, I just got the new met parachute. No need to remove chin as doesn't overheat and best of all its full face tested and certified. Very happy with it, wont replace my tld d2 but its perfect for trail days.
  • 1 0
 How do you find the met in hot weather? I do like the look of it when I don't need proper dh lid.
  • 2 0
 In 20 degs climbing up hills its ok, that's about as hot as it gets here.. Have been out with it about 6 times never had to take it off. Its really sturdy too, not a full dh lid but its a lot better than the other options.
  • 3 0
 I have the new met parachute... It's a great helmet but it is very hot.. If you are riding in conditions that have no hint of a breeze you will cook in it. If there is a slight breeze then the vents do a good job of directing air into it so it is reasonably cool. Its definitely not a summer helmet
  • 4 0
 Thanks mate. Got a tld d2 also what I use when I need to but to hot most of the time. Most things I do met would be great. Don't think I would trust a removable chin gaurd. Then I would be two lazy to take it off or put it back on. Same reason I got a dropper post. I just want to ride not dick around with helmets and posts.
  • 13 1
 Obviously a full on DH lid will protect you better but i think the point of this helmet is for those riders who refuse to take a full face up and only use a half lid, therefore giving them the ease of transport and giving them that little bit more protection than a half shell will. Better having this than a half lid is the point that I'm trying to put across. It was never designed to give you the protection of a proper full face.
  • 2 2
 It is incredible that people have to keep repeating this. And by this I mean Xolorr.
  • 2 6
flag bat-fastard (Oct 1, 2014 at 8:10) (Below Threshold)
 Xolorr is missing the point again, the new light full facers are being designed to be wore all the time but offer a tested full face protection. No one wants to dick about taking on and off a wee plastic chin guard that doesn't offer full face certified protection, you might as well be wearing an open face helmet, at least it wont break and cut the chin off ya..
  • 2 0
 I disagree. Full facers are too hot to be wearing all day when you have lots of climbing to do. The removable chinbar will make the helmet much more comfortable. When i get mine i will probably use the chinbar only when im descending unless there is enough wind to keep the helmet cool
  • 4 1
 The lack of full face approval is irrelevant as far as i am concerned
  • 3 2
 "put it in the loop of your fanny pack".
hahahahahahahahaha! what a great sales pitch.
hey i know, maybe i can just hang it off the seat post on my softride bike. lmao.
come on bell, get some real testing done and proven on this thing. until then its just another switchblade.
  • 3 0
 I just wish the visor was a bit bigger. The first gen Giro Remedy sized. The one on the Bell looks like a duck bill and out of place.
  • 2 0
 100% agreed. All they needed to do was use the same visor as the original Bell Super. That was a fairly long (though highly adjustable) visor for a half-shell, but I never heard anyone complain about it. I wonder why they decided to shorten the visor for this model...
  • 1 0
 @PeterGunga

Good point and thanks cos I didn't see that. Maybe we can put the old Bell Super visor on there?!?
  • 2 0
 The visor is the same - the only adjustments that were made to the Super (beyond the necessary modifications to fit a chin bar) are the fit system (upgraded to TAG) and a new GoPro mount. We made no modifications to the visor from the Super to the Super 2R other than the graphics.
  • 1 0
 thanks @BellBikeHelmets.

The "old" Super is one if my all-time faves. Looking forward to trying this one!

in my defense...methinks the visor appeared smaller in the pic....
  • 1 0
 I really struggle to understand the need here. I understand that a full DH helmet is hot to wear on a climb but required - or desired - for protection on descents. What I don't understand is how the chin guard has anything to do with heating up. There's lots of room in between the riders face and the chin guard on most any DH helmet to have decent airflow for breathing. The issue is that DH helmets are made to vent at speed. An Enduro full face needs very, very good ventilation for climbs… the chin guard, to me, has little to nothing to do with the problem of overheating on climbs. Meaning a removable chin guard is little more than a gimmick. Specialized Deviant seems to be on point (some ear venting would probably make it that much better).
  • 1 0
 As someone who has broken their jaw on a mountain bike this is appealing (who put that damn tree there??).

Sure it's not DOT or whatever other certified but it has to be better than nothing at all. At only a slightly higher cost than the super I'm sure it will sell.

I'm of the belief that as mountain bikers we are getting faster every year and pedaling into increasingly dangerous terrain...so the more lightweight protection we can get the better. Plus a helmet like this would be great in cooler/cold temps for added warmth.
  • 2 1
 Not sure I buy the "better than nothing" approach. In certain situations a flimsy pseudo-full-face could actually be worse than nothing.
  • 1 0
 agreed with drpete for sure, and I too have broken my jaw- although not from mtn biking. a flimsy chin bar can bring a false sense of security- which can be a dangerous thing. If the trails I know im going to ride deserve a proper full face, then i'll bring the fully and pack it on the climbs. I think bell make good kit, and I am confident that they if anyone can make a quality full face helmet. I just want to see more testing completed on this helmet.
  • 3 2
 "but the ASTM F1952 requires a level of penetration resistance that a helmet with as many vents as the Super would be unable to achieve. "

Met parachute has it so which helmet do you think people are going to buy lol
  • 8 1
 I have the new met... i'd rather have the Bell....
  • 13 16
 poah - do you believe that majority of people or a statistical person if you like, buy things basing on some rational motive?! Even if so, how rational would that be to buy or not buy a helmet basing on a certificate?! What is a certificate? A social construct, delusion, while people have proved with this btchn on Bell, that they deeply believe that certificate is some God given guarantee. Have you ever heard of a case when someone crashed in let's say D3, and sued TLD for helmet failing to protect him against concussion?! Will ever anyone racing Enduro sue any company because their helmet cracked on a sharp stone while it was certified to sustain such hit, and to get that certtificate some machine contraption was hitting it, under all sceintific scrutiny, supposedly using laws of physics and other sht people replaced redneck religion with these days? I tell everyone one thing: if you want a helmet to truly stand to a certificate, feel safe in it, then use it only to ride in that lab under that jig. If you want a true testing certificate then get a dozen of riders, mount equipment on them, and make them repeatedly crash into rock garden a tree, so that you can replicate everything that happens. Then make a dummy for testing and put the tested helmets on it. Nobody will ever do it, so we may as well buy something that looks good and safe to us, just as everyone actually does and stop pretending that we have something scientific going on here, because there is nothing more than scientoligion going on here. Freaking extrovert bullshit.
  • 6 0
 MET doesn't have removable chin guard thus it's not a comparable product. It's like comparing a coupe to a convertible - a coupe without a removable roof will always be safer.
  • 1 2
 who cares that it has a removable chin guard. I want it to protect my face at all times.

as for walk I couldn't be arsed to read your waffle sorry Razz
  • 2 1
 "who cares that it has a removable chin guard"

Everyone who's going to buy it. If you don't, you have a wide choice of full face helmets. And if the Scottish climate is comparable to the Irish one, I assume you couldn't care less about vents.
  • 1 1
 I've got the met, the chin guard doesn't make it overheat therefore you can wear it all the time.. job done and its crash certified as a full face.. no contest... no one wants a removable chin guard, they want a helmet to wear all the time that protects as it should that you don't overheat in...
  • 1 1
 @Extremmist I wear a FF helmet all the time as I value my face - a removable guard places extra stress on the helmet
  • 3 5
 I will put it simplier for you. People are btchn on that helmet with removable chin to not be as protective as a regular fullface helmet. That is retarded. Do you also complain on a open face helmet that it has no chin at all or on a fullface that it is not as breathable? According to your logic I could say that D3 sucks because it does not have a removable chin. It is a helmet with a removable chin and so it can be judged. Certificates are irrelevant and a proof of it is an article where people were equally anal on how helmets are being tested. It is impossible to describe how fkng stupid this btchn on Bell helmet is. Anyone doing it, is a retard. Period.
  • 1 0
 @extremmist they are comparable. Light weight, well ventilated FF helmets.

Bell supposedly responded on MTBR and implied it's not the chin guard, but the venting that makes it fail 1952.

I personally don't believe it since the MET is well vented and passes.
  • 2 0
 Waki- you're the idiot. Tape some cardboard onto your helmet and smash your face into a wall and tell us how it went.
That's all Bell has done if they can't show it actually works.
How would they do that? Pass 1952 since it's the only cert that tests the bar.

You may not like it, but 1952 is the only quantifiable way to know a chin bar will hold up.
  • 1 0
 I'd say the vents are bigger on my met so doubt its that. If a helmet has a chin piece detachable or not it should meet the ff safety standard as its being sold as one, even if it is a crap standard that's even worse if its failed Waki....
  • 1 1
 its not retarded, D3 has been proven in racing that it protects. The previous met parachute was not great according to people that had crashed wearing one as has the archi enduro so customers want proof that the helmet will stand up to a crash. Given that the met parachute is certified to a certain level and is proven to be vented enough not to require a removable guard. so given a choice which one am I going to buy?
  • 3 3
 Yes poah - exactly - it has proven itself in racing - ex-fkng-actly. No certificate needed. You looked at a proven D2 and you know that D3 can only have more protection judging by it's size and weight. It is called common sense, educated guess at worst. Now if you take a quick look at this helmet without a chin, you may notice that it is just as bulky as any other Enduro helmet on the market (Giro, Urge) and bulkier than any XC helmet. A second look at it may tell you that it does not have fullface helmets thick outer composite shell and it definitely does not have EPS padding between that shell and styropane layer. So basicaly, it is irrelevant for ones safety when doing gravity riding whether it has shin or not. Leaving riders face alone, a hit in the head in Enduro helmet will have worse consequences than if he rode DH helmet. No certificate needed - just observation. Now this chin here looks solid, defo more solid than one of Met parachute, but not as solid as one on FF helmet. 80% of buyers are fully aware of that: this helmet is not as good as FF helmet but it offers certain level of protection, particularly against bruising, compared to any open face lid. The remaining 20% who will be stupif enough to make unfortunate connotation to a full on FF helmet or think that miraculously they get FF protection in lighter and more ventilated package, will eventually suffer from an avoidable injury - it is called: natural selection and it is a btch!
  • 4 0
 @TheOriginalTwoTone This helmet hasn't been developed for people who want a lightweight or well ventilated helmet. This helmet has been developed for people who ride trails where it's better to have a FF helmet but at the same time often ride XC trails where a FF helmet would be an overkill. If these people can't justify a purchase of two separate helmets because they don't ride both types of trails often enough (or simply don't have enough money), this can be the ideal solution.
For example the trails I ride are quite rocky and a fall could destroy your face. However it's quite far away so more often I ride dirt roads and walking trails where I'd find it ridiculous to wear a full face helmet, no matter how lightweight or well ventilated.
  • 1 1
 So without anything showing how strong it is, how do you know the chin bar is going to work on that nasty rocky trail?

By the way, it's ego alone that says XC riding doesn't need a FF. There are plenty of people that have crashed XC riding that wish they had a FF at the time.

Did you even read the nonsense in your post? If it wasn't developed to be lightweight or well ventilated they could have passed 1952.
  • 1 1
 yip my son face planted on a blue graded smooth berm. without his FF he'd have been hurt.
  • 1 1
 Theoriginaltwotone - it freaking was developed to be lightweight and well ventilated, It is just some loonies on internet that think that it was developed to be a fullface helmet Jesus fkng Christ! And if you are to tell people to ride FF helmets more often, and XC helmets less often, then you must become the world leader and force them to under the threat of sending them to gulag or something like that. If only people rode in FF helmets more often, oh dear, I shall save you from yourself!

BTW - have you seen the second edition of Specialized FF helmet, quite ventilated one that Bearclaw rode in Roam and crashed in during crankworx? If only he could talk to a person like you, he'd be one concussion short. Stupid man
  • 1 0
 There are plenty of people who fell down stairs that wish they had a FF. They question is - how likely is it going to happen?

And the only person who's writing nonsense is you. It's even written in a review of the MET:
"The old MET Parachute came with an optional chin guard... In order to certify the helmet for this it was necessary to adapt the face guard and fix it to the helmet"

enduro-mtb.com/en/revolution-in-the-helmet-segment-the-met-parachute-hes

This means you can either have a certificate or a removable chin guard, but not both. Initially MET has chosen the latter, with their second model they decided to go for the first option while BELL decided to go for the second one. I don't see anything that makes one or the other company better, they just had different priorities.
  • 1 0
 its being sold as full face protection but doesn't meet the certification. the met chin is smaller and helmet is a lot more vented and does meet the certification. it didn't fail because it was removable. I still have the old parachute, crashed it but didn't break it, never took the chin off it as again didn't need to as was well vented.
  • 2 0
 It's being sold as 2 helmets in 1, unlike the MET.

"I still have the old parachute"
And how did you get over the fact that it doesn't have the 1952 certification? Smile
  • 1 0
 Well, it may well be sold as a fullface helmet, depends what do YOU recognize as a dull face helmet. I don't hear anyone getting overexcited when TLD says: D3 has improved ventilation over D2 -it is a freaking DH lid - it has virtually no ventilatin FFS! Bell does not state anywhere: as strong as D3! It is analogical situation to this new Coke Life, and the green label on it says: bo sugar added only natural sweeteners. Since when sugar isn't natural?! Or it says that bottle is biodegradable made of organic material - oil is an organic material! Plutonium is biodegreadable as well - takes 150k years to degrade. If one is unable to find himself in everpresent marketing claims then no helmet and no certificate will help him. Again: natural selection. Some people get injured, some die, and with all due respect in the greater scheme of things: it may as well be a good thing. Tragedy or win - it just depends from a point of view baby. Saving people from themselves is retarded.
  • 1 0
 Its being sold to the same crowd as the met, should I dare to say it ENDURO... a helmet that offers more protection but can be wore all the time so no need to carry a second on backpack like loads do atm. I don't think there is a market for those who want to use it as an open some days and a full another. They would simply buy 2 helmets quite easily for the price of the bell.. I'm not saying it will replace my d2 or a d3, or it has anywhere near as much protection as these but what its meant to offer ie basic ff protection the bell fails at and not for the reason that's stated as the met passed with bigger vents....
  • 1 0
 Extremmist- you are wrong as usual. That was the method that MET choose. But believe it or not, a non FF helmet can pass 1952. If it has a chin guard then it has to pass that part. No where does the standard require the chin bar be non removable.

Here educate yourself so you don't appear so ignorant- From the ASTN F1952 specs:
"Abstract

This specification covers performance requirements for helmets used by downhill mountain bicycle riders. Studies have shown higher risk to the head and face for this sport as compared to recreational street riding; hence, this specification requires greater impact protection and provides performance criteria for chin bars on full-face helmets, but does not require full-face helmets. "

I know it's pretty likely, I don't know you or your riding, maybe XC riding to you is like my grandmother riding on a paved path.
But here on the east coast us, lots of rocks, roots and tree-lines single track, one simple mistake is all it takes.
  • 1 0
 @TheOriginalTwoTone "As usual" Big Grin That's so cruel from someone who doesn't know a shit about me...

It's absolutely irrelevant what the standard says, all I'm saying is that nobody has ever produced a helmet with a removable chin guard that meets the ASTN F1952 specs. Neither BELL, nor MET (or GIro or anyone else). Yes, in theory it may be possible, but so far we have to choose between the standard and the removable chin guard, we can't have both.

@bat-fastard " I don't think there is a market for those who want to use it as an open some days and a full another"
Well, imagine that I'm one of them. If I lived near a bike park, I'd probably pass on both this and MET and buy a TLD D3. But because I live in Ireland, I simply can't justify spending €300 for something I'd use 10-15 times a year.
And will you finally stop focusing on the vents? It's like saying that a coupe with a sunroof is in the same category as a convertible.
  • 1 1
 Who cares if Met passed any certification? It is obviously not a helmet that offers same protection as a legit DH lid. I would not wear it for park riding or any Enduro race and I wish good luck to anyone who does. I don't hear anybody blabling on Urge archi-enduro. You are just holding to one argument as if certificate was anything more than a booster of sense of safety fighting ones insecurity or inability to use a point of reference in form of a legitimate gravity riding helmet that has been evolving for over 20 years. Just like many dorks in Alps wear full body armor to XC lid while dragging the locked rear wheel methodically creating brake bump masterpiece. I don't understand how can one feel safer in Met therefore for your pleasure I'm out.
  • 1 1
 Well I'm Norn Iron and I wear my d2 to the dirt jumps like may others as well as for DH. What I don't like is wearing an open face even for the new trail centres here that are lined with stupid rocks. When your mates wife was knocked out and airlifted of a xc route from hitting one of said rocks its not funny. As for the vents that's the reason the bell apparently failed but it cant be as the met passed so I'd like the real reason it failed, like the chin broke the mounting or split the back of the helmet etc..
  • 1 0
 Waki, Many people looking at the MET are for XC riding, not downhilling. Since 1952 is the only standard that tests chin bar, it give a level of confidence that the chin bar won't fail.
  • 1 0
 Extremmist- yes I was harsh- sorry bad day.

I agree with what you posted to bat. I'm very happy with my MET, but I don't want three helmets and I'd like MIPS. The Super would be the perfect helmet if they redesigned to pass 1952.

I don't need a FF to ride around the neighborhood with my kids, things like that. I already have a proper DH helmet. Right now all I have is my MET, and old 1/2 dome I crashed in that needs to be replaced.
  • 1 0
 "I'd like the real reason it failed"

Removable chin guard = weaker construction, I said it about 10 times already for f*ck's sake...
  • 1 0
 There will be a MIPS version of the BELL available in a month or two, I'm waiting for it and going to buy it.
  • 1 0
 "Who cares if Met passed any certification? It is obviously not a helmet that offers same protection as a legit DH lid"

its not a downhill helmet so stop comparing it to one.
  • 1 0
 "Removable chin guard = weaker construction, I said it about 10 times already for f*ck's sake.."

Do you work for Bell? Why do you post stuff you don't know.
  • 4 0
 Hahaahahhaa FANNY pack........... Nice lid though!.
  • 1 0
 Glad I wasn't the only person who found that funny - I couldn't take the article seriously after that
  • 3 1
 My original Super is almost ready to be retired..Ill be replacing it with one of these.. PS that Met parachute is hideous..definitely euro only
  • 3 0
 Bell plans to end production of helmets next year, There last helmet will be called 'end'
  • 1 1
 Personally, I think this helmet is a great solution to so many of my local trails where heading up, I want only the half shell, but heading down the full face coverage will offer significant peace of mind. Besides, goggles with half shell helmets look stupid. ;-)
  • 1 0
 Bell cliams this thing is "game changing" what a joke remember the Giro Switchbalde like 15 years ago? Everything old is new again. Talk about a recycled idea
  • 5 3
 I'll be impressed when it meets a helmet standard that tests for chin guard impacts.
  • 2 0
 Apparently the chin guard itself meets the dh standard. But not the helmet.
  • 2 0
 @digr other than the press implying it, where did you get that. Remember, they have to sell this vs. the MET that does pass.

marketing speak doesn't mean shit.
  • 1 0
 A sturdy chin guard that breaks off and still smashes into your face because the helmet couldn't support it would still be a bit of a problem.
  • 2 2
 From my own experience I would never take the time to strap that thing on no matter how quick it is to do... But that's probably because I use my full face for everything besides all mountain/xc riding.
  • 4 2
 when manufacturers will realize that people don't want 2in1 things. they simply don't work.
  • 1 1
 They will realize it if the customers refuse to buy them.
  • 2 0
 2 in 1 things....like an Enduro mtn bike?
  • 1 0
 it's just one thing, a mountain bike not 2:1 anything
  • 2 1
 I'm pretty sure you are wrong about penetrartion ! Being the reason it didn't he f1592 certification, the new Met Parachute is just as vented, lighter and made the cert
  • 1 0
 They posted on MTBR that it was penetration that it failed.
  • 1 0
 Chin guard meeting dh spec was from a bell sales rep. Also apparently the helmet doesn't meet the standard cause of penetration. Basically it has too many vents.
  • 1 0
 Be patient. They'll be a youtube video up before long. 2R attached to front bumper while person slowly crushes chin guard into a concrete wall.
  • 3 0
 Grow some balls and use a real full face
  • 1 0
 Looks like you can get it with the MIPS system too: www.mipshelmet.com/time-for-a-new-helmet
  • 3 0
 I like it, really.
  • 3 0
 guess its a super helmet
  • 1 0
 bright idea but lets try making something beautifull like others bell helmets
  • 1 1
 I would expect to see a neck brace that integrates the lower faceguard. Then the top can be its own thing. But maybe that is overkill for enduro...
  • 1 0
 Haha so that on top of the this "not worthy of FF status" discussion, you want to bring back "are neck braces necessary" mob?
  • 1 0
 I just figured would be better to absorb face impacts with your sternum. I don't really know much about this stuff. I just were a smith ski helmet most of the time with a really old fullface for dh. I just like to hypothesize.
  • 1 0
 What about comfort?

Ventilation?

Did the version you tested not have MIPS?
  • 2 0
 Awsome helmet, awsome Idea, I will defenitely buy this one, looks sick...
  • 1 0
 NO INTEREST !!! you have balls or you do not, but you can t be both ... enduro helmet ok everywhere
  • 1 0
 I love all you pinkbike fans we all rock thank you pinkbike for all the great work.
  • 1 0
 I love the idea of this Smile
  • 2 2
 Giro switchblade all over again!

dirtmountainbike.com/features/the-15-worst-mountain-bike-products-ever.html/10
  • 2 0
 The second sentence in the link you posted is: "In principle it sounds like a great idea, and if someone could really pull it off then they might be onto a good thing."

That's what we're all hoping for here - that they pulled it off. I'm optimistic so far.
  • 1 4
 Ummm, WTF? This 2014 here. What are you trying to sell us here Bell? If your helmet doesn't come with a handlebar mounted electronic Li-ion powered thumb switch to convert the helmet from open to full & back again in under 100 ms then you're not really keeping up with the industry very well. :s

Stash the chin bar in a BP or FP?!!!! Bahahaha GFY. WTF would anyone ever do that? A full-time full-face helmet is not that cumbersome. Until I see the equivalent of an Autobot mask that extends & retracts according to my thoughts, I think you can stuff this here idear.
  • 1 0
 Fuck this helmet thanks for the negs bye.
  • 1 0
 I'm torn between this and a real ff
  • 1 0
 Can we disable PB comments for a while? Would be nice
  • 1 0
 Debbie Downers
  • 2 5
 I did this thing when I was in my teenage years. We called it "manning the heck up". It required you to resist your inner female tendencies. As a result we didn't need these silly helmets.
  • 4 1
 I manned up once. I chipped a tooth and am never doing it again.
  • 2 0
 Yeah, because injuries that end the career that you actually make money at really impress the chicks.
  • 1 0
 We wore full face for racing and xc for xc. None of this in-between rubbish.
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