Video: Bell Super 2R Helmet Impact Testing

Dec 15, 2014
by Mike Kazimer  
Views: 84,368    Faves: 43    Comments: 5


The question of whether or not the removable chin bar on Bell Helmet's new Super 2R was capable of withstanding a direct hit provided fodder for numerous heated debates when the helmet was first announced, with concerns being raised about its ability to provide effective protection in the event of a crash. A full review of the helmet is in the works, one that goes over its fit, function, and ventilation, but since we try to avoid smashing our faces into trees whenever possible, we paid a visit to Bell's helmet testing facilities in Scotts Valley, California, in order to witness the paces the helmet had been put through during its development.

While at the lab, we were able to witness the Super 2R's chin bar being put through three separate testing procedures. The first was the chin bar deflection test, where where a 5 kg mass is dropped from about 0.4 meters to correspond to an impact velocity of 2.8 meters per second, a test that's modeled after the one used for DH certification. Next came a test where the helmet itself is dropped onto an anvil; and finally, a test that Bell's engineers came up with to replicate a glancing blow, the type of impact that's more representative of what actually occurs during a crash.

Of course, all of these tests were performed in a controlled environment, since using human test subjects to evaluate helmet safety isn't exactly an ethically sound method. We still would have liked to see the helmet tested to destruction, something along the lines of what we accomplished during a visit to Santa Cruz Bicycles a few years ago, but even without getting to snap, smash or crush anything we still appreciate being granted the chance to see the types of impacts that the Super 2R's chin bar can withstand.

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mikekazimer avatar

Member since Feb 1, 2009
1,719 articles

188 Comments
  • 104 7
 So what does the test prove in comparison to a fix bar full face? That first test flex looks like it would take out my front teeth, is that a above, normal or bellow standard full faces?
  • 33 2
 That's what I was thinking too, without a comparison its a meaningless test.
  • 5 13
flag chyu (Dec 16, 2014 at 0:13) (Below Threshold)
 That's how Connor Fearon wrecked his. And if the helmet snug fit the weight. It will simulate how your neck going to break on impact.
  • 29 3
 Indeed it would be much better to have a comparison. Or at least know these are the standard tests for all helmets and the resulting flex of this one is in the specs. But I'm a little scared when I reed that the test simulates a face plant at 2.8 m/s. Because that's 10 km/h! Hardly more than 6 mph. To me it looks (note I said looks, not is) like a lot of flex for so little speed. How is it like when crashing at 30 km/h?
  • 12 6
 lets see the same thing done to the met parachute, then increase the loads on each till they break..
Lots of marketing adverts on pinkbike for this bell, after it failed the fullface cert that the met passed, is this trying to convince us that its ok.
Not with that flex, the met has very little, at 6mph it looks bad so might be ok for the climbs, what about 30mph on the way down?
  • 26 0
 If you take a full front blow at 30km/h like this, your teeth are the least concern.

Don't forget than most car crash test are not direct impact (more 50/50 front impact on semi-rigid targets) and at 64km/h, these euro ncap test were sometimes deadly on the first test years, and we are talking >1T steel box with belt straps and airbags.
  • 66 18
 Living within a sphere of own perception of the world and protecting it from arguments and evidence takes a lot of energy...
1.where does it say 2.8mps
2.how do you know how valid are THE ONLY tests in the world for helmets witj chin bar at ASCP?
3.how do you know R2 was submitted to ASCP test?
4.If Parachute passes same chin bar test as D3 then I think something is wrong with testing of downhill helmets. Thank you Bell for highlighting this unintentionally.
5. Sometimes flex is better than direct crack due to too stiff yet brittle material.
6. It is enough to use your own hands, fundamental recognition and logic to measure safety level of a helmet. Just go to a store selling all sorts of helmets. Take a MX helmet and try to squeeze it and flex the chin. Then take a modern Downhill helmet like D3 and do the same, then take a cheap DH helmet (or expensive as Fk Poc Cortex) and repeat the test. Then take parachute or Bell S2R. Here! No test rig needed for you my whiny ass consumer who will never buy a helmet like that anyways, just whine online worrying about safety of people whom you'll never meet, and if you do, you'll think of them: oh what an idiot, enduro trend whore - why won't he just ride in a D3? And you'll smile to yourself unconsciously: I am so reasonable! I need to meet more people that seem stupid to me, and read about more marketing scams to feel good about myself.
  • 51 0
 Credit where credit is due: Bell is releasing this video in response to previous concerns voiced right here on PB, which is a step in the right direction: towards transparency. That said, this gesture would be a lot more meaningful in context. Bell, most of your target market understands that this is not a dedicated, moto-certified DH helmet, but we would like to be treated like adults so we can make an informed decision.
How much impact protection does the this chinbar provide relative to the CPSC certification standard and/or to models like your Full 9?
50%, 75%, ??
I'm interested in the 2r as an extra measure of insurance for tech downhills on longer rides where I would never bother to wear/carry a full-face, but before I trust it for flat-out enduro race speeds, I'd like to know just how much extra protection I'm actually buying. If it's merely there to protect against abrasion, that's not going to be enough for a lot of folks.
  • 8 3
 1.44 it shows the chin piece hitting your face. Ok it must have dissipated some of the force, but how is this good marketing, explain? Without a comparison, at least against Bell's other MTB DH helmets like the transfer or full 9, it wouldn't convince me to buy one
  • 14 1
 Don't get me wrong I do like this helmet. I know Bell make trustworthy gear but this video still hadn't helped decide if it's going to give me false confidence.

I understand something is better than nothing but nothing makes me ride safer/slower.
My beard will only stop so much.
  • 7 0
 @WAKIdesigns : question 1: second paragraph of the very short accompanying article. I agree with point 5, not just for brittle. The purpose of a helmet is to absorb some energy so if it would not flex at all your brain would take the whole load. It still looks a bit flexy for a slow crash.
  • 7 3
 My thoughts exactly, if anything, this video takes away my desire to purchase one of these helmets.
  • 1 0
 I agree with sentiments above requesting comparative data. Of itself, the tests above are almost meaningless if only because riders will naturally want to compare its functionality relative to standard fixed chin bar full face helmets and tests those lids are subjected to and certified against.
  • 4 0
 ...think I might apply for a job as B.R.A.D...
  • 5 4
 @EnduroManiac
I think when you crash at 30kmh, you use your arms and hands to slow down your fall (and that's why the wrists break).
So the actual speed of your head when hitting the ground should be under 30kmh. But yeah, 10kmh isn't enough
  • 13 10
 Are we arguing whether Bell Super 2R is a helmet as good and as adequately " armed" as it should be according to the initial marketing pitch, or we are just projecting our fears of damaging the socially most important part of our body with very innervated tissue? Or you just got carried away and discuss how a perfect test should be made so it can make a successful marketing campaign, making you want to buy it more, even tough you might not need it? If second: save time wondering about velocities, forces and keep on using full face helmet. It is not that inconvenient to tie your full face to your back pack for the climb. Well it is heavy, yes... it's 1kg of additional force wearing epidermis of your scrotum onto the saddle. Yes on longer rides your neck does feel bad as well aaaand you sweat a hell of a lot in the summer. So you want it all with no pain and no fear and for a damn good buck? Compromise is a hoax! Is a chain, Is lie! I know they never got popular in North America but sing with me: I want it aaaall, I want it aaaaall, I want it aaaaall and I want it NOOOOOW.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=gfLD-7bCtME

Once you find and pin your fear, life gets easier! You are so worried about your face, and how much of you use face cream?! It's a helmet with detachable chin guard with unique construction and aesthetics. Nothing more.
  • 5 11
flag EnduroManiac (Dec 16, 2014 at 4:13) (Below Threshold)
 @zede : at 30 km/h you'll hope you'll have the time to extend your arms forward. Not sure you'll manage it though. I bought myself a leatt brace once for that same reason: I thought I'd have the time but once I actually didn't manage it at all, although I wasn't very fast.

Waki: the reason not to wear a full face outside of a bike park is not so much about weight but rather the consideration of walkers coming across. Acceptance of mountainbikers on hiking trail is still limited at the time and hiding your face just makes you look more riot-friendly, not what walkers fancy unfortunately. Yes it's better to wear a full face and stop at walkers than wear an xc lid and pass full gas besides people (including smaller people : kids) who might get a projected stone in their shin or face. But best is surely to combine both positives.
  • 5 3
 Enduromaniac, a leatt works all the time, you don't need time for it to work?

and I don't think wearing a full face or not is because of public perception?

good comments waki, on the money
  • 11 8
 EnduroManiac - that was either unrelated or faaaar fetched. I don't know why you mentioned it at all. As long as you are riding on a shared trail, the issue is, and will always be (as you int out yourself anyways): stop or come to a near stop and preferably say Hi. You may add: "I hope I did not scare you or your kids, dog and mother in law, whatever you are with" - element of care is always welcome. Good bye and have a nice day. Many will never get it, regardless of what helmet they are wearing - a bike will always be scary to a walker, it scares even me when I hike alone - therefore both sided interaction is utmostly necessary and it is up to the bigger bloke - MTBer - to start it. Wear what you feel comfortable with, when you make yourself happy, everyone will be happy.
  • 15 2
 a lot of people on here talking crashing at 30 + km/h direct to chin....I am assuming.....well news flash gentleman at that speed your going to be more of glancing blows, sliding , road rash, yard sale, scorpion, rolling or all of the above. So if you are the rare mountain king who crashes only at 30+km/h you should probably invest in a full face motorcycle helmet,full alpine star leathers and alpine star leather booties, or a better pair of brakes...I recommend the Hopes!
  • 14 0
 @EnduroManiac
But when you crash at 30 km/h speed, that doesn't mean you hit an obstacle head on. If you crash at a high speed, you usually slide or roll (unless you hit a tree). In MotoGP they crash at 150 km/h and that doesn't mean their helmet are tested to protect them against a head on collision at the same speed.
  • 3 0
 that was nearly as cool as slo mo suspension
  • 7 10
 Waki I mention it because that's a fact, non-bikers don't like to see MTBers in full gears not being able to see their face. And the funny resonance make you sound a little like a robot, which does not help. It is related simply because you said we should use FF on trails for better protection, and that is a consequence or side effect, hence the relation. I suggest we close everybody's account except yours as you are the voice of truth and you can teach us all the time that we become less stupid. On the other hand, if we keep our accounts open, may be we can teach you to be less arrogant. Who knows?
  • 8 8
 why am I arrogant? Because I point out that if this discussion is going on for the 3rd freaking time using same sort of babble, it is not the problem with the helmet but certain things in those people having problem with it? I don't know where from you got that comment on full faces and hikers, how does that relate to anything. Then this comment on appearance in FF. What are you suggesting? Riding in open face helmet to appear friendlier to people passing to give MTB better face and thus give us more acceptance on all sorts of trails? That sounds like a good start for a witch hunt within MTB.
  • 1 0
 I wouldn't wanted to appear in the situation as a RED HEAD of this video Smile
I don't have 250 bucks for helmet. Hell, no! It's crazy price. Guess some carbon somwhere in the chin.....

Continue to use my Servo for $35.

But I like this idea.
  • 5 6
 Why? Because you decide on what's good and what's not on the thread. What sort of authority are you?

People like to see other's people face. That's why motorcycles are by some not well perceived, or women wearing a burqa for instance. But now that really gets off topic.
  • 4 0
 omg. wear what you will and at least say hi, stop and slow down to crawl/stop. They are shared trails---meaning all groups have to share.

no need to write a letter to the other trail users. hahaha
  • 3 5
 No EnduroManiac, I just provide insight why someone may feel negative about a certain product, I don't say, stop discussing. That's your impression of what I am saying and you are fully entitled to it. Now I'm off.
  • 3 0
 having bell join this conversation even for a second would be of great help
  • 1 2
 2 EnduroManiac

What why ?
I wrote: I don't have 250 bucks for helmet. It's crazy price for me.
So I use what I have - my Bell Servo.

That's all, man Smile Please, do not generate an excessive reasons Smile ))
(oh, yeah, off topic!)

I don't mind too much about the thread Smile I just can'f afford such expensive helmet just for HOBBY purposes which the biking is.
May be some time these helmets will become low priced, then I will try it.
  • 1 2
 fullbug

...and give everyone here one sample helmet for the REAL, I mean f..g REAL test, would be no only of great help, but also GREAT MARKETING!
Smile
  • 2 0
 tis the season....
  • 16 0
 News flash chin bar is supposed to flex or your neck would break,it is infact a good thing that it does,dissipating energy is the name of the protection game.
  • 10 0
 If you are that worried about a helmet wear a true full face. This helmet is designed to add some protection on that long day ride with a few rocky tech sections. Probably not the helmet for running laps on a downhill track. That piece is better than having air in front of your teeth!
  • 3 0
 I would have to say my protection is worth more than some radom hiker's illogical fear, sterotyping, and general arrogance!
and in my experience said hiker are more scared when they see my face, than when its hidden by sexy goggles and colorfull and sexy FF and matching kit!!!!! Smile
They go from saying holy shit did you see how scary that guy is to holy shit that guy looks like he knows what he is doing...maybe I should ride and all the chicks will want me too!!!!
  • 1 0
 ^^^didn't you mean "all the "birds" will want you too"?
  • 1 0
 LOL.......sure!!!!
  • 2 1
 @bikecustomizer: I wasn't replying to you. Your post appeared by the time I posted mine.
  • 4 1
 Looks good to me. I'll buy one, pedal 20mph into a brick wall and I'll report back the results of the test.
  • 1 0
 I wouldn't do that you could hurt yourself
  • 4 0
 now anxiously waiting for fail of the month vids
  • 1 0
 I remember when Skiers were too cool to wear helmets, now it's just normal. I like the idea of this helmet, think I'm getting one.
  • 44 2
 THIS IS NOT INTENDED FOR HARDCORE DH/PARK USE.... got it? f*ck people are dense sometimes... no, it is not meant to replace your D3... it's meant to replace your XC lid and add a little extra protection...
  • 17 1
 you've seen the courses that the EWS ride on right
  • 4 2
 @poah I'm not sure I understand your point? Some of the EWS races required an approved full face helmet for some stages (Italy), others don't require a full face at all and only recommend using one but an XC helmet is allowed (Scotland). According to the rules the Super 2R wouldn't be allowed for Italy but would for Scotland.. but again, I don't see what your point is...
  • 6 1
 Exactly. It's intended to keep enduro riders from having to carry 2 helmets. If it won't stand up to enduro racing, then it's not doing it's job.
  • 14 0
 Not all 'enduro riders' are racers subject to the EWS rules... some of us just like to go mountain biking....
  • 3 2
 I'm talking about the trails not the rules of the country hence why I said courses. I'd not want to ride the DH sections of the trails with an open face or this helmet.
  • 2 0
 gtrguy

Agreed!
But not for 250 bucks!!!!

So, form these time one seems will carry 2 helmets on his back, like a CAMEL: one for the real protection, and one the the "a little added protection".
Of course, third - the lightest xc helmet is on the head.
Smile

Just a joke.
  • 1 0
 When I say enduro riders, I'm talking about racers, as the most likely reason for them to completely redesign this helmet so soon after they introduced it, is their sponsored athletes clamoring for a way to avoid the 2 helmet problem.
  • 35 0
 Does having a beard increase it's crash-worthyness?
  • 61 1
 I have a beard. Because I do, I don't require a full face.
  • 6 1
 ...and never leave the house without your checkered shirt.:-P
  • 19 2
 I don't have a beard =( but at least my girlfriend does...
  • 6 7
 No, it will only make removing the fragments of the broken helmet from your chin more difficult... Smile
  • 6 1
 Extremmist, I take it you are one of the unlucky ones who can't grew a thick full beard?
  • 4 7
 I grew a full beard two years ago and kept it for about 5 months but people kept telling me I looked like a terrorist from Chechnya so after the Boston Marathon bombings I shaved it and kept a goatee (which I've had since the age of 17).
  • 25 0
 This helmet would have saved me around $8k had I been wearing it while riding the whole enchilada in Moab. Its desert hot with plenty of climbing and pedaling over 27 miles. On mile 26 I took a line I always take and didn't realized erosion had changed the trail and there was no landing area any longer. At 20mph my right cheek hit a rock fracturing it in three places. The Super 2 would have deflected the majority of the blow and prevented the fracture. I still may have received a concussion. I think many folks here are missing that its job is to deflect impact not stop it and why its so flexy. For those of us who pedal up and then descend this is a great option.
  • 25 6
 I was already planning to buy this helmet as my riding style has moved away from downhill recently insert lovin enduro quote>>. Seeing this crash testing video has cemented my purchase plans. TAKE MY MONEY!
  • 2 0
 They are going to take quite a bit of money. I thought the same as you when I saw the video, then I looked up the price... Not saying it isn't worth it, but its more than I'm willing to spend since I have a perfectly good XC helmet and DH helmet already.
  • 3 1
 This helmet is for enduro racing and pedaling up to your DH trails. It's not a DH helmet that you also use for trail ya know?
  • 1 2
 I will just wear my slightly heavier helmet that doesn't breathe quite as well and keep my $200+.
  • 1 0
 take my money R2
  • 21 2
 I like teeth.
  • 78 0
 yeh me too, but some girls overdo it
  • 6 1
 This is the best comment in the entire article.
  • 17 0
 Could Pinkbike do the same for the MET Parachute helmet?
  • 13 0
 thanks for posting this video bell and pinkbike. I asked after the initial intro of the helmet to see some product testing and this certainly serves to reinforce its value as a helmet fit for a specific element of riding. pedal up, bomb down. I would not wear this helmet in the bike park because I would not need to- I have a fully for that, but for the big mtn ride ups and downs we do, this would be perfect.
I think some of the comments here are misguided and naïve regarding the product, but.... it is the internet.
  • 12 1
 Super2r looks great and from vid performs well, to many comparing this lid vs D3 etc. It's a middle ground helmet not a Fullface DH replacement.
  • 11 0
 Looks like a great helmet for trail/Am riding, i don't get why there is so much hate for this helmet .
  • 1 0
 It's basically people justifying to themselves why they shouldn't buy it. For me, I've been looking for a trail helmet that offers some face protection whilst retaining the breathability and venting of a standard helmet. This is that helmet.
  • 1 0
 I think its a great looking helmet, I am thinking about getting one in the new year .
  • 8 0
 As an old man around these parts-46 years, I rember in the days of long ago, no one wore a helmet. Never. They didnt even exist for bicycle riders. And if they did you surely would have been laughed out of town. I am gladd to riders today, not only wearing them, but also discussing if they are good enough.
  • 7 0
 this helmet looks perfect for what it is intended for. if l am not planning on wearing a full face helmet on my normal rides, why wouldn't l wear this helmet and use the chin bar for the downhill portions of my ride? l don't get too agro anyway so this would just be a little extra protection. l will seriously consider buying one of these helmets.
  • 11 2
 Would have been nice to see a comparison in deflection vs the full 9 or transfer 9, good to see this test though.
  • 7 1
 exactly. nobody is doubting that the helmet cant take a beating...bell is a reputable company and i would never expect them to put a safety product on the market that couldnt. but if this 2R deflects at a rate of say twice that of their own $200 "standard" full face...is the weight savings and multi-function really worth the protection?
  • 1 1
 test a D3 would be good too.
  • 9 1
 It's the breathing that a full face does not allow over the weight saving IMO, for example over here in our national "enduro" championships you now have to wear a full face at ALL TIMES, even on the climbs - gay or what. I am expecting more firms like Bell to come up with a design similar, how long before TLD get on this design.

the argument is that this is way better than a pisspot, any arguments there? very doubtful, in the era of higher speeds from trail bikes and the ever growing enduro market place being the new thing I would suggest this is a good idea, it always feels a bit sketch rattling through rock gardens at 40 kph in an open face lid, this little bit of added protection is only a good thing - would I replace my Carbon full face with this? NO, would I use it over my TLD A1 piss pot? YES damn right.
  • 8 1
 Looks like you can take one on the chin prettygood with the 2R. I would still rather ride with my d3. But in a pinch, where a full face is recommended, the option to add the face guard to the 2R is nice to have.
  • 6 1
 That is pretty standard drop and impact testing in the industry. They should show us stress testing at the extreme to see what it takes to bust that sucka into pieces. How much force would it take to break? Also, I'm a little worried about the amount of flex in the chin guard any flexion is going to go into yo face sucka!
  • 5 0
 If you had a crash at 30k/h you would not hit the ground chin first, its absurd to even think that, the inertia of your body from the moment you begin to fall will slow you down significantly and naturally the human body protects the head with the rest of the body.

The only way you would have a crash at that speed or higher speeds and continue the inertia would be if some one put a log in font of your face as you came down the mountain.

Anyway this helmet is not designed for the world cup DH circuit or DH as a matter of fact, its designed for AM and enduro and to be honest I'm sure most of us don't come down the mountain at the speeds the pros do.
  • 6 0
 It's an enduro helmet with full face, not downhill, it is meant to provide protection better, even if only a little, than a normal half shell. For its intended purposes over half lids, I think its a great idea.
  • 5 0
 I bought a Super 2R the first day I could.
Its definitely a solid junction(the chin bar meeting the helmet), and the way I look at it is this:
I ride predominantly DH, on trails that are 90% exposed rock, rock gardens, and embedded boulders everywhere.
Prior to buying the 2R, I had the original Bell Super and a couple dedicated DH helmets.
Because climbing with a DH helmet on SUCKS AZZ, I initially used my Camel Back to carry the DH helmet on my back, but that took forever, so I found an Osprey pack that has WAY better mounts, but I'd still have to take the pack off my back to swap 'em, so I still rarely brought my DH helmet along.
All I do now is slide the chin bar around my neck and pedal up to the top of the hill, mount the thing onto the helmet(it's easier with the helmet on your head, and the whole process takes maybe 20 seconds) and go.
I'm confident the chin bar isn't gonna break off if I face-plant into a giant rock or into an exposed rock surface, and I know for a fact that I will be better off if this happens than I would had I simply been wearing the regular Super(or any other open-face helmet for that matter), and as I said, that's the helmet I'd be wearing.
Will I wear it at Snow Summit or Mammoth? I'll bring it, but I'll at least start off the day wearing the dedicated DH helmet.
Another benefit of the 2R is how much lighter it is than a DH helmet. I used to switch to the Super towards the end of the day, and the last time I superman'd into some rocks. Luckily I hit em right above the visor so I didn't lose any teeth. Next time I'll have a chin bar no matter what.
IMO, the Bell Super 2R DEFINITELY is a jump forward in MTB helmet design and protection. I can't say just how close to a true DH helmet the 2R is protection-wise(and I hope I never find out), but I have full confidence in the thing every time I strap it on.
  • 7 1
 I want to buy one but I live in China . Although I can buy bell,what I want is not made in China.It is because quality testing is in a mess in China .
  • 7 1
 Looks perfect for those rides with both long climbs and long descents. Seems like the earlier worry/criticism about the chin bar possibly being junky was uncalled-for.
  • 4 0
 tell ya what...you wear your D3, you wear your skate lid, you wear your XC lid, you wear your mullet, you wear your met parachute, I'll wear this helmet (sometimes with the chin bar, sometimes not)...and then we can all talk about our helmets during our post-ride beer.
  • 4 0
 This is what I got out of this video: When I'm riding on my usual trails at my usual speed/aggressiveness and I happen to crash, do I want to potentially go to the doctor for missing teeth or torn up chin/jaw, or do I want to only take some tylenol and maybe an ice pack?
I, for one, welcome our new XC/AM chin bar-equipped helmet overlords.
  • 4 0
 I'd still wear my Cipher for DH/park and gnarlier enduro stages, but I think the S2R is doing a nice job distancing itself from the Switchblade of old. I see this as a good helmet for those days/rides when a FF is too heavy/hot but the extra protection is still a benefit. It's looking less and less like a switchblade. Might have to add the MIPS version to the collection.
  • 3 0
 It's not a downhill lid nor do they sell it as a downhill lid For all of you that think doing impact tests that replicate 25-30 mph crashes head on etc, etc, etc make you feel safer then so be it. Regardless of what helmet u have D2 D3 carbon this, carbon that. At that speed head on you're fucked
  • 5 2
 That video showed me 3 different ways your teeth and face would be more fcked up had you worn a regular half-shell without the added protection of the chin bar. That's good enough for me. I'm not doing lift runs at the bike park on a 200mm travel bike, and if I was then I would wear a full-face, but that is not what this is for and you cant honestly claim this doesn't offer more protection than a half-shell. I'll take the MIPS version in white please
  • 2 0
 ^^^exactamundo!
  • 3 0
 Looking at it from a physics perspective, the helmet flexing could be a good thing, Force and Time are directly proportional in an impulse equation, P(impulse)=F*T, so if the amount of time that it takes to complete the impact is longer, with the flexing helmet, the amount of force that you feel will be reduced, because the amount of time it takes is longer.
  • 5 0
 Hater's gonna hate, potatoes' gonna potate. Pinkbike is always good for a little armchair engineering squabble, minus data or accountability for one's claims.
  • 3 0
 Boy, people want to hate this helmet before they even see in person. Smart of Bell to put this video out since so many folks out there are skeptical. If you feel this helmet doesn't offer enough protection then don't buy it, geez.
  • 2 0
 "the ASTM F1952 requires a level of penetration resistance that a helmet with as many vents as the Super would be unable to achieve. " - Mike Kazimer (original article on the Super2R)

So... passes the chinbar test as we can see, but not P.R.

It would be nice to see these Bell tests done with a helmet w/o chinbar- lets see how the face looks after that...
  • 2 1
 MET Parachute passed the ASTM F1952...it has just as many vents...
  • 3 0
 The 2R does NOT pass the ASTM DH chinbar test OR impact test.
  • 5 3
 So, if you are a 0.5 meter tall midget who weighs less than 5kg and only ride at jogging speeds you are covered Smile

regarding the deflection, I would have thoght this is better than being very rigid as it will absorb impact energy rather than transfering the full impact shock? like a cars crumple zones.
  • 3 0
 Flex is better than shatter in this case for sure. My question is, "is it too flexible?" Of course, I'm not really qualified to answer that question. I HOPE that the engineers at Bell are.
  • 1 0
 I think the even better would be to add in a chin a some sort of cushion (like in auto's steering wheel) to save rider's face.
But let's don't overdo it: the rider may became suffocated.
  • 5 3
 whether it is functional or not, I still don't see where this type of helmet fits into my ridding style. Climbing hill, better flick the CTD, snap the reverb in place, lower the air pressure, adjust the talas, remove the chin bar on my helmet. HOLY SHIT A DECENT, get that chin bar on, drop the saddle, adjust the CTD, adjust the talas...... Give me a break and go ride your dam bike already!
  • 1 0
 interesting video, but it would be good to know how they use the videos in their design work. These lab tests may well be used in the validation of a FEM simulation of an helmet impact event. If they're not... well, I'll have to send them my business card Wink
  • 1 0
 The only way to crack this is to put the parachute and super 2R head to head in tests. I have the parachute and you can still convert it by taking off the chin guard takes 2 mins, just in case people were wondering. Quite heavy though at 450g but essentially a bluegrass goldeneye with a bit more coverage round the ears.
  • 1 0
 Is that this year's parachute? I thought the chin guard wasn't removable anymore, starting this year.
  • 2 0
 This years. You can remove it I have and its fine there is a video on youtube somewhere with a guy doing it.
  • 1 0
 good to know. I love my regular super, but am not so sure about the full face version. I'd be hard pressed to give up those brow vents on the super though. first helmet I've ever owned that kept sweat from dripping down my face at some point in the ride.
  • 3 0
 All I can say is bring out the damn helmet (MPS version)!!! I've been waiting for it for many months and it still isn't out. The wait continues....
  • 1 0
 I thought the glancing blow test at the end seems to represent most of the crashes I've had and the helmet looked to perform alright. That said I've got a tld a1 and a carbon t1 so I probably wouldn't buy this but if I didn't then I might be tempted
  • 1 0
 bought this last week,feels pretty solid to me, couldn't get use to the openface on the downhills and didn't like carting 2 lids about, works perfect for me, although if its a day out on the dh bike or uplifting on the enduro then id take a proper fullface
  • 1 0
 This year in the middle of year I visited some helmet makers and, I saw they doing some impact tests in the helmets! BEfore see i couldn't trust, but when I saw! I stayed surprised how much strong the helmet should be to absorb the impact power and protect us! FOR Many years I use BELL helmet, they are confortable and, light weight! Now i'm seeing that I need this new model, because with this new model i'll stay protected and dont need carry 2 helmets for the trips! This is the nicest and safety helmet of 2014! Congrats
  • 1 0
 It's not a DH world cup helmet and not intended to be, but I'm not a world cup rider and nor do I aim to be. I am a very aggressive gravity rider and sadly might only get to do parks once or twice a year. I like the speed on big hills and am not after big hucks or big air where I'm likely to smash my teeth in to stem. For my kind of riding, I think this helmet is perfect...though the price tag leaves something to be desired. If I crash riding the way I ride, I'm more likely to break a wrist or collar bone than I am to break this helmet.
  • 1 0
 Im not sure why theres so much hate for this, the moment i saw it, i knew i wanted it, its perfect for my style of riding. My typical ride is a minimum of 30-45min of uphill, i currently sling my 661 fullface on my handlebars on the way up, then put it on at top of hill. Makes so much more sense to just hook the chinbar to my pack and wear the Bell on the way up, my rides are not that gnarly, but there are technical rock gardens that i feel uncomfortable going down full speed without chinbar protection. It arrived today from the US, cant wait to try it tomorrow....its also 200grms lighter then my current fullface
  • 6 0
 could be my next helmet
  • 1 0
 Me too. Cheers to Bell for having the guts to take on something like the chinbar. We are obviously (see below) interested...'cos nobody wants to mess up their grill...and yet we're all super critical.
  • 5 2
 I like the rig the built to replicate a real crash, but I don't recall the last time I crashed into a smooth metal incline, Anyone else ?
  • 4 0
 maybe a car hood, roof or something... Razz
  • 1 0
 The difficulty here is that it has to be a test that is easy to reproduce. After using this test rig to get some initial data, I would love to see them launching a test dummy out of a catapult onto a rock garden or something for "real world" testing.
  • 1 0
 Last time I fell on my head, front first, it grazed the chin protection on my D3, but the only damage I had was that the strap to hold the helmet had pushed my jaw back by a few mm ... Not sure which one's the best, but 2 days later I was good again without any injury (well at least on the face, the chest was another story, chest grinded the shit out of the landing zone Big Grin )
  • 5 0
 Looks like plaid and beards are trendy at the Dome.
  • 3 0
 I think plaid and beards are trendy with all mountain bikers. In fact...I'm wearing them both RIGHT NOW!!!
  • 3 0
 MOAR PLAHD!!!!
  • 1 0
 Ok you guys. Three variables: weight, material(=price) and construction. To achieve same strength as a one-piece fullface a two piece design would need more material or more expensive material. so how much does it weight and how expensive is it? That is how much it protects you. Probably helmets should be graded by weight/cost ratio ; )
  • 2 1
 Despite the fact that just bought one and am awaiting its arrival, I do agree with most of the posts here.

Bell releasing such an AWFUL video, and then remaining silent is massive mistake.

Obviously, they had hoped to alleviate some of the concerns about the true protective abilities of this helmet by releasing the video. But, all it did was make it worse. This is what happens when engineers are allowed to be mouthpieces for a brand.

I bought the helmet because I believe that regardless of its potential shortcomings, it's going to protect my face a hell of a lot better than a half shell helmet.

My criticism lies in Bell's blundering missteps in trying to instill confidence in this helmet.

You know they're reading each and every comment sweating about what their next move should be. Bell, if you are listening, you need to:

A.) Remove the video from Pinkbike, it's only making matters worse.

B.) Invest the time and resources into making a video that explains the testing and standards in a way that people can understand. Don't have some awkward engineer type just standing there gazing off into space.

C.) Don't just sit back and let the Internet decide the fate of your product. You sitting there, silent, is only allowing the groundswell of negativity regarding this helmet build to a critical mass. There will come a point where no amount of advertising on your part will be able to counteract the Internet's public opinion about this helmet.
  • 3 1
 ^^^For what it's worth....I don't really agree with your points. I think Bell did alright.

The video DID help me at least. It offered more visual information and answered some questions about the strength of the chinbar without getting bogged down by a bunch of technical jargon. Or maybe I'm a simpleton who will fall for anything?!?

For engineers (if they even are)...these guys did alright. They both look like riders to me, so it's not like they're pasty desk jockeys peddling their company's junk. The one dude obviously wears a Super--I know those head indentations well :-)

I think public opinion is divided--not lopsided as your post might make it seem. And for that...Bell is doing quite well. They've made a product that clearly serves a purpose and that has garnered lots of attention.
  • 2 1
 You seem to be on a mission like Protour or me some time ago. Let me try to take you out of it to save you a lot of time C - Public opinion on the internet is important: the existence of it not the content, which is irrelevant. You are here to see the product and be a figure in Pinkbike ratings. All marketing works. Then you get your entertainment off course, but you are as far from changing the world as you can be.

All the best
waki troll
  • 1 0
 Talking about chinbar compatibiliry with regular Super 2 helmet - yes, you able to connect chinbar to regular Super 2 helmet, and yes, they'll be available for buying separatelly soon! It's official info from Bell.
  • 3 3
 Bell Rep. at Oregon Enduro / Mt. Hood wrecked the 2R he helped design. Broke the chin bar leaving a good neck lesion...saved his face from the initial impact but I think he got off easy without further damage to the nose or eyes. Proof of concept fail.
  • 1 0
 If this is true that's a major issue. I'm guessing he values his job at Bell enough not to comment on here, though.
  • 1 0
 Yes my thought exactly. I was in the market for a new fullface at the time and I was not comfortable with the bar breaking or separating (was not clarified by the guy) on impact. He broke the Orange (team version maybe) so there may be material mods that went into the commercially available product following additional testing and iterations (after late Sept.)? Would like for the Bell folks to comment and clarify on the event and what-if anything was learned...his job security is not relevant to the conversation, I would like to know what the company has improved on since...may have been a prototype that was given to team or sponsored riders?
  • 4 0
 Actually...maybe the helmet did its job perfectly...

Or:

What if the face guard hadn't been there?
  • 1 0
 That's true, and part of the reason why I wish I had a little more info.
  • 1 0
 I think @DrPete is not concerned with the issue of 'having a FF' vs. 'not having a FF' but having a fullface 1pc vs. 2pc? Based on my somewhat limited experiences with FF helmets, I'd say the 2pc, should have cracked/flexed to dissipate impact, but I don't think the intended mechanism of safety would be breaking / becoming unbuckled during an impact resulting in materials contacting the face or neck....Bell or another manufacturer might provide some technical insight, but it'll be biased....but might shed light on the best tool for protection for your specific needs.
  • 1 0
 Yeah--I'm sure there are impacts out there that would break the chin guard on an ASTM-certified FF helmet too, so that's why a bit more info would be helpful. But if the mechanism of energy dissipation is kicking pieces of chinguard into the face, I'd probably pass on this one.

I read an article in Dirt Rag that made mention of the S2R being "tested" at Oregon Enduro and that the overall impression was positive, and DR tends not to regurgitate ad copy.
  • 5 0
 @nicolai12 - It was Bell's industrial designer, ironically one of the designers behind the helmet, who crashed at Hood River, not a sales rep. The helmet worked as intended - the EPS shell was dented, and there were small cracks, but the chin bar itself was undamaged and remained in place.
  • 1 0
 Thanks for the extra info, mikekazimer.
  • 1 0
 Thanks for the clarification @mikekazimer , knew he was involved in the design, but mentioned him as sales due to his role that weekend. He was a very nice guy and simply explained that it had broken (maybe he meant cracked or was unusable thereafter?) the helmet and was wearing fresh lid the next time I saw him. Any idea how he came out with such solid scratches on his neck and face?
  • 3 0
 If Ratboy started wearing one...I wonder how many supporters would appear out of the woodwork?
  • 3 0
 I'll get one when the price comes down a bit. I like the concept, and surely it beats no face protection at all.
  • 2 0
 Love seeing what goes into our sport. The inside progression. Remember the video on the demo at specialized on the roam DVD?
  • 2 0
 Very cool, would love to see more data and comparisons. Pretty stoked on the potential this has!
  • 1 0
 With these super-vented full face helmets i'm more concerned that these holes look great for guiding branches and sticks into my face...
  • 1 0
 Why do these northern Cali mountain bikers think it's cool to look like a lumberjack. It's such an awful look. I am from Cali too btw.
  • 1 0
 I am still buying one of these, but bell really need to put out a video the same but with there strongest dh full face lid on those test rigs to show a good comparison
  • 2 0
 This is no ASTM F1952 Downhill compliant.
  • 2 4
 Marketing, this helmet does not pass the astm downhill standard, it only passes cpsc the bike standard. So they are showing tests that this helmet obviously failed. The fact that it doesn't pass the Diego astm standard is obvious proof the chin bar is not safe for down hill use and can't be raced in any event in Europe. The flex is incredible on this chin bar and every highspeed impact shows the chin bar hitting the head form, that head form represents your face! Better option is to find a full face that passes the astm downhill standard
  • 1 0
 Forget about safety... Would you laugh at me if you see me wearing one? Razz
  • 1 0
 ^^nope! Unless you were going uphill.
  • 3 1
 Darn I was hoping to see some exploding helmets
  • 2 0
 I really wanted to buy this helmet.
  • 2 0
 Don't worry ... no flannel was harmed in the making of this video.
  • 1 0
 I would like to see that test with my Casco Viper MX www.casco-helme.de/product.php?id=93
  • 5 8
 What a pointless video, i feel even worse about this product after seeing that. At no point do they say that the deflection seen is a pass or a fail to the criteria.

If its a pass, then why isnt it certified as a full face helmet? Which to me says it fails the test.
  • 4 2
 It can never pass the full face helmet tests because it has a removable jaw, but that doesn't mean it won't protect you in a crash.
  • 3 2
 And you shouldn't wear it at a proper downhill run or in the bike park. Wink
It's not meant for that.
  • 2 1
 wtf. it either suits your type of riding or it does not if not move on. got my crc voucher just got to decide the colour
  • 2 0
 There was a comment on another pinkbike thread that claimed it can't pass the DH standard because it doesn't pass the penetration test (no helmet with vents on top will pass this test), but that it does meet the DH chin guard specs.

I am planning on buying this helmet if it fits. It's not supposed to be a DH helmet, and I won't be getting rid of my DH full face. This helmet is for trail riding where you want a half-shell on the way up and a chin bar on the way down.
  • 1 0
 They do appear to be showing the chinbar test from the ASTM standard F1952 (Test Methods F1446 section 12.9), this is a test of the chinbar rigidity, Perhaps the helmet is not suitable for DH due to the penerration test but its not specifically the chin bar.... or maybe the deflectrion is too much, agreed they could have told us that.
However it does alleviate concerns that it won't break off due to being removable or shatter and stab me in the face, and assuming I don't get run over by a bus (or some other squashing like effect like this test) then it looks like a great alternative between a peanut hat and a DH FF.
  • 1 0
 The ASTM DH standard does NOT require a penetration test. Only motorcycle helmets are tested for penetration.
  • 1 1
 Yeah we just built this whole new machine to test one helmet. Easy stuff really.
  • 1 3
 they need to redo the test showing more realistic impact speed for enduro and downhill if those impact where roughly only 10km/h from what i saw i would never invest in this helmet.
  • 2 0
 its not about the speed its about the force. plus how often do you take a full on hit straight to the chin bar? just because you crash at 25-30 mph doesn't mean that the full part of that force vector will be put into the chin bar.
  • 2 1
 Modelled after the DH chin bar test ≠ equal to the DH chin bar test.
  • 1 0
 Not necessarily true, but I do wish they'd just put it through the same tests so we'd know.
  • 1 1
 From someone who transferred from motocross, i don't even wear downhill specific helmets because they're so flimsy.
  • 2 2
 All this video did was sell me on the MET Parachute! ASTM F1952 certified with just as many vents as the Bell...
  • 2 1
 Can one throw a chin bar on a regular Super?
  • 2 0
 nope. Must be the 2.
  • 2 2
 I wear a Bell Super helmet ,but I'd be fucked if I'd wear that. Anything other than a premium full face is a compromise.
  • 8 1
 So why are you wearing a Super if "anything other than a premium full face is a compromise"? Nothing wrong with compromising.. pretty much ebverything is a compromise is some way or another...
  • 4 0
 Bingo gtrguy!! One could easily argue that riding XC without a full face is a compromise.
  • 3 0
 I don't go out of doors without my fullface. Anything less is a compromise. And I NEVER compromise.
  • 1 1
 @ gtrguy ,I meant full face helmets obviously
  • 1 0
 But how did it perform? No crash dummy face shots AFTER the tests….
  • 1 0
 First test looked like you'd lose all your front teeth.... :/
  • 1 0
 It's a nice helmet without the mouth guard
  • 1 0
 "The guy is nuts. I am not involved with him."
~ Evel Knievel
  • 1 1
 Soooo what about the helmet visor??
  • 2 1
 D3 4 life
  • 1 0
 I'd still buy one.
  • 1 0
 R.I.P the jaw.
  • 1 0
 killer beards
  • 4 7
 So, what was this video supposed to accomplish?
  • 8 3
 mass , energy absobsion , deflection its all there put it all together and make a judgment warning may require brain usage
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