2013 AIMExpo: Bell Unveils Two New Helmets

Troy Siahaan
by Troy Siahaan

Today at the AIMExpo, Bell unveiled two new helmets, the Bullitt and Qualifier, while announcing a revised fit for the Custom 500 three-quarter helmet.

Inspired by the original Bell Star, the Bullitt celebrates Bell’s 60th anniversary by combining classic styling with contemporary safety features. The ultra-low profile fiber composite shell features a multi-density EPS liner, removable, washable and anti-bacterial liner, a padded chin strap with stainless steel D-Ring closure and leather pull tab, and a perforated micro-suede interior fabric with leather trim.

In keeping with the modern theme, three different shell sizes accommodate sizes from XS to XXL. Five metal mesh intake vents above the brow all exit through a single exhaust vent, while 3D cut cheek pads come with speaker pockets. Perhaps the coolest feature of the Bullitt is the retro-style bubble faceshield with what Bell calls its Magnefusion shield closure system.

The Bullitt is DOT certified, weighs 1400g (3.1 lbs.), and will be available March 1, 2014 for $399.95.

On the other end of the price spectrum, the new Bell Qualifier incorporates 60 years of helmet innovation into an affordable package that will only set your wallet back $119.95.

The 1550g (3.4 lbs.) Qualifier features a polycarbonate, aerodynamic shell, also with a washable, removable and anti-bacterial liner. A neat feature is the padded wind collar Bell says drastically reduces wind and road noise. Other features include integrated speaker pockets, an anti-fog faceshield with a tool-less quick-release removal system, and a five-year warranty.

Bell will offer the Qualifier in 10 different graphics and color ways including metallic silver, gloss black, and the always-popular matte black. Available in sizes XS/S, M/L, XL/XXL, the Qualifier will be on sale starting February 1, 2014.

Finally, Bell took the popular Custom 500 three-quarter helmet and gave it a new headform. This change should help it fit more riders while giving it a slimmer profile on your head. With five shell and EPS sizes, it will fit XS to XXL noggins.

For more information on all of these products, visit www.BellHelmets.com.

Troy Siahaan
Troy Siahaan

Troy's been riding motorcycles and writing about them since 2006, getting his start at Rider Magazine. From there, he moved to Sport Rider Magazine before finally landing at Motorcycle.com in 2011. A lifelong gearhead who didn't fully immerse himself in motorcycles until his teenage years, Troy's interests have always been in technology, performance, and going fast. Naturally, racing was the perfect avenue to combine all three. Troy has been racing nearly as long as he's been riding and has competed at the AMA national level. He's also won multiple club races throughout the country, culminating in a Utah Sport Bike Association championship in 2011. He has been invited as a guest instructor for the Yamaha Champions Riding School, and when he's not out riding, he's either wrenching on bikes or watching MotoGP.

More by Troy Siahaan

Comments
Join the conversation
Next