Bell Super 2R Helmet - Review

Jan 26, 2015
by Mike Kazimer  
Bell Super 2R

Bell Super 2R Helmet

The Super 2R is Bell's response to the growing number of riders who are seeking out rough, technical trails, but don't want to be burdened by the weight of a traditional full face helmet. With their popular Super half shell helmet to work from, Bell was able to create a highly ventilated full face helmet, complete with an easily removable chin bar, that weighs in at only 722 grams. It's not meant to replace the helmet you'd use for DH racing or smashing out bike park laps, and Bell doesn't claim that it is. Instead, it's meant to provide a little extra security if things don't go exactly as planned, whether that's at an enduro race or on your technical home trails.


Bell Super 2R
A ratcheting dial retention system makes it simple to quickly adjust the helmet's fit.
Bell Super 2R Chinbar
At 322 grams, the chin bar weighs roughly the same as a light XC helmet.

Constructed with a polycarbonate shell around an EPS foam liner, the Super 2R has 23 vents on the main portion of the helmet, along with four vents over the forehead, and four more on the chin bar. The chin bar attaches to the helmet with three ski boot buckle style latches, one on each side, and the third at the back of the helmet. Retention is handled by Bell's TAG Fit System, which uses a ratcheting dial located at the back of the head to fine tune the fit. Other features include a removable, breakaway POV camera mount, and 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. MSRP: $200 USD. CPSC / CE EN1078 certified. Sizes: S, M, L. Colors: Infrared, Matte Black / White, Matte Titanium / Red, Matte Black, White. www.bellhelmets.com. @BellBikeHelmets


Bell Super 2R Review
The Super 2R works can serve as a traditional half shell for mellower day on the trail.
Bell Super 2R Review
Installation of the chin bar transforms the look of the Super 2R, but the excellent fit remains.

On the Trail

Worn without the chin bar, the Super 2R offers extra coverage compared to a typical XC helmet, sitting low on the forehead and extending further in the back and at the sides of the helmet. In fact, the side portions extend so far down that some riders may find that their ears occasionally touch the lower portion of the shell - as with any helmet, it's worth trying one one in person before making a purchase. Even though the Super is one of the heavier half shells out there (for comparison, a Troy Lee A1 is 344 grams, and a Smith Forefront is 332 grams), the depth of the shell combined with the rear retention system helped keep it securely in place, without any bobbling or shifting around even on rough trails.

I was able to haul the chin bar easily on several different models of hydration pack, typically orienting it with the chin pads facing the pack to keep it from swinging from side to side. Once at the top of a climb, installing the chin bar took a matter of seconds, and could easily be done without removing the helmet. The latches are relatively simple to operate even with gloves on, although it does get a little trickier if your hands are cold and the latches are even colder during a mid-winter ride. While it's easiest to attach the chin bar with the helmet still on, the sound of the latches snapping shut is rather loud, so if you’re trying to pedal away a hangover or a head cold, it's best to remove the helmet to put the chin bar on, or be prepared for the three noisy 'snaps' it takes for installation. It's also worth running your fingers along the front of each side latch or giving the chin bar a slight downward pull before heading down the trail, because it is possible to inadvertently close the latches without having them slid completely into the slots at the side of the helmet.

After three month of riding with the Super 2R I haven't run into any durability issues - all of the latches still operate properly, and the same goes for the helmet's buckles and retention system. Of course, as with any moving part, there is the potential for the latches to wear or develop excessive play, but given how many times a ski boot can typically buckled and unbuckled before that happens, hopefully the same holds true for the Super 2R.

The comfortable and secure fit of the helmet continues once the chin bar is in place, and the thick cheek pads ensure that there's no excessive shifting. That thickness can also be reduced if needed – there's a removable 10mm piece of foam in each cheek pad that can be removed by opening a velcro closure. I did find that the Day-Glo orange upper portion of the chin bar occasionally entered my field of vision – I'd likely pick a more subdued color, or at the very least spend some time with a Sharpie to make it less noticeable. Although temperatures remained fairly mild for the majority of testing, the ventilation provided by the helmet was noticeably greater than a typical full face, with plenty of air flow to keep things cool. Aside from bashing through a few low hanging branches, I luckily didn't need to put the impact resistance of the chin bar to the test. That being said, in the event of a crash, I'm convinced that having it on would still be better than wearing just a half shell.


Pinkbike's Take:
bigquotesThe Super 2R will likely go down in history as the most talked about helmet of 2014/15, and for good reason. It's a helmet that's different than anything currently on the market, and although the concept isn't new, it's the best execution yet of the removable chin bar design. With the growth of enduro racing, as well as the increased number of riders pushing their limits on trail bikes, it's a helmet that makes sense in many instances. The fact that it doesn't meet the ASTM F1952 DH standard will be a deterrent for some riders, but it's a matter of honestly assessing your riding style and protection needs when contemplating purchasing the Super 2R.

How feasible removing and installing the chin bar is will depend on your local terrain, and in an area with rolling topography, where there are short climbs followed by short descents, it doesn't make as much sense to constantly stop and fuss around with a chin bar. For areas with long, sustained climbs followed by technical descents, the type of place where you might only take a few runs per ride, the Super 2R is an excellent choice. Plus, for $200 you're effectively getting two helmets in one, both possessing excellent fit and function. - Mike Kazimer



Visit the high-res gallery for more images from this review.



Author Info:
mikekazimer avatar

Member since Feb 1, 2009
1,719 articles

193 Comments
  • 72 5
 I crashed in an enduro race and if I had this helmet, I definitely could have reduced the chance of a concussion as well as destroying my face. This is a helmet definitely worth looking into..
  • 42 2
 +1.
Anytime non-mountain bikers ask me why I wear a full-face helmet on certain trails I explain what can happen. No one understands until it happens to them. hope your still out there riding mate.
  • 11 2
 yeah, I learned my lesson! now I understand why my buddy rode with two helmets all the time
  • 39 66
flag waffleeater (Jan 26, 2015 at 22:35) (Below Threshold)
 helmets don't actually protect against concussions. they do help protect bashing your head in, severe cuts, abrasions etc. you crash and hit your head, you still get a concussion even with a helmet. l have had a few.
  • 21 3
 Waffleeater, the MIPS equipped version IS proven to reduce concussions! Now go get yer grub on!
  • 26 15
 Mips is only Proven by the people selling it. Let's see some independent data...
  • 5 7
 or looking out of . get one they are brill I just leave the chin bar on
  • 11 1
 Totally agree, last august I crashed wearing my a1 and smashed 3 of my front teeth out. Due to the way the teeth snapped the dentist said no more half shells as the next time they may not be able to repair them. Super 2r came out, i dont need to worry about that anymore. Bought one the other week, and i can agree with everything said above!
  • 7 0
 I crashed wearing a Bell Super. I've got a nice scar across my cheek from the impact. I don't really mind the scar, but I'm certain that the 2R would have prevented the cut and the weeks of wearing tape on my face, answering questions constantly, etc. If the 2R had been out at the time I would have bought it, no doubt.
  • 15 3
 @nick1957 whats the point if you just leave the chin bar on? Surely a met parachute (lightweight well ventilated true full face) would have been a smarter choice?
  • 11 34
flag nick1957 (Jan 27, 2015 at 4:01) (Below Threshold)
 a/ I have the option
b/ my first choice was the parachute but medium was just to big, Bell medium fitted perfectly
c/ try to think about posts a bit more as you obviously didn't know the full story and may look foolish to some
  • 16 4
 I just wanted to know the logic behind getting something removable and never removing it, when a non removable option has got better protection. And maybe you should think about your posts a bit more, I was merely asking a question yet you took a very defensive tone over it.
  • 10 2
 I apologise for point c/ but do you get points a/ and b/
  • 7 1
 Yeah. Which is why I was asking in the first place, your first comment had no information apart from 'i leave it on' so I was intrigued.
  • 6 0
 the intention was to take the chin bar off on climbs etc but it does not restrict my breathing when climbing . and you get used to it so quickly just feels so natural . maybe coming from moto x helps
hope this helps
sorry about c/ again my bad
  • 6 2
 if you're not going to remove it the MET parachute is a way better bet. It's the same weight and the chin bar meets the cert.
  • 7 5
 I think it needs to be clarified that the MET Parachute is a lightweight breathable full-face helmet. It is possible in the future we will see lighter, more breathable full face helmets to compete with the Parachute. The Bell Super 2R is a convertible helmet. They should not really be compared.
  • 4 1
 If you read my first comment I do say its a lightweight well ventilated true full face. And they are to be compared because theyre both designed to cater for the 'enduro' market, I.e. Long rides with gnarly descents. Two different approaches to cover the need for more protection than a half shell but not as heavy or hot as a real dh full face.
  • 2 6
flag PHeller (Jan 27, 2015 at 7:31) (Below Threshold)
 TIL: You can remove the chin bar from the Parachute and you end up with the Bluegrass Goldeneye. How hard is it to remove the chinbar from the Parachute?
  • 7 8
 well as far as all the neg. props go…folks do your research. ride on and try not to hit your head!
  • 9 0
 @Nobble actually MIPS was developed by Karolinska Institute, one of Europes largest institute for medical education and research and KTH Royal Institute of Technology. So I'm pretty certain that there is valid claims for better protection against concussions.
  • 13 0
 Maybe the NFL needs to look into MIPS for its helmets!
  • 8 4
 Waffleeater is actually somewhat correct. In general, helmets are designed and do an excellent job at protecting against lacerations and similar trauma to your head, but they do a very poor job at protecting your brain from concussions. A $400 D3 will offer no better concussion protection than the cheapest full face on the market--they all have the same basic construction of an expanded polystyrene foam surrounded by a plastic or carbon fiber shell. Fortunately, there are some new technologies that do offer some improved concussion protection. MIPS is one which is designed to reduce rotational impacts to the brain. The new Leatt and 6D full face helmets also have some significant improvements in concussion technology. But, if you aren't buying one of those advanced designs, pretty much all helmets give you the same level of concussion protection which is not very much.

But a full face and this new Bell 2r still offer far better facial and scalp trauma protection than a half shell, which is a reason enough to get one. Not to mention the 2r can be bought with MIPS.
  • 6 1
 thanks. having had several concussions, l have done a lot of research. facts are... concussions happen. ride your bike, wear a helmet, live life.
  • 5 9
flag Nobble (Jan 27, 2015 at 10:21) (Below Threshold)
 Here's why mips is marketing at work.

Mips relies on the low friction layer allowing the helmet to rotate on your head when you fall, preventing the energy being transferred to your brain. However, nobody's helmet is that firmly coupled to their head. A mips helmet typically provides about 5mm of "slip". Now go put your helmet on and try to rotate it around, I bet that you can easily move your helmet more than 5mm in any direction on your head.

Mips works in concept when your head is physically coupled with the helmet liner but that's not the case in reality.
  • 8 0
 Ok, 5mm additional slip! ANY new tech is welcomed in my book when it comes to the dome! Why not welcome something better? At least companies aren't sitting back doing nothing.
  • 4 10
flag Nobble (Jan 27, 2015 at 10:26) (Below Threshold)
 because they're selling snake oil... if you want some new helmet tech, get a leatt or 7d
  • 10 2
 If anyone paid $400 for a D3, they probably already have a concussion.
  • 1 0
 @waffleeater you are certainly correct. the best way to avoid a concussion is to wear a mouth guard with your helmet. with that said you wont see me riding with a mouth guard, but id never play hockey without one.
  • 2 4
 @whitebullit where are you playing full contact hockey at 24 years old? Or do you just fall down and hit your head a lot?
  • 4 1
 is it unusual for a 24 year old to play full contact hockey? aren't a lot of pro's and very competitive players around that age?
  • 3 0
 @bikehard11 puzzled to learn there still are enduro races which don't enforce full face helmets in the rules...
  • 60 14
 I think this is one of the reviews that a a lot of pinkbikers where waiting for. However, because @mikekazimer clearly told us that he did not fall and hit his head with it, the review is moot. @mikekazimer Please go ahead grab a Sh+t bike down your gnarliest trails and check the helmet properly please. If you are too good rider wear an eye patch and have some rum before the ride.
  • 8 5
 Jeez..already 2 negative props...that is harsh.
  • 3 1
 Harsh but LOL!
  • 1 0
 Its the good out question of how good is your car insurance, is it how cheap it was or how they react once you need to make a clame...
  • 1 0
 I wouldn't expect it to protect like a traditional full face helmet. It's really light weight as it's built like a typical xc / enduro helmet. Expect it to protect just a little bit better than the typical half shell helmet. It's been said a billion times already, but if you ride DH, get a DH helmet. If you're into a little gnarlier trail riding, then this helmet is certainly a viable option.
  • 2 0
 I think you're being a bit harsh here. He did say he's been riding it for months. So this review has it's merit when it comes to build quality, fit, usability, etc. As for how it holds up in a crash. One of our riders tested it during an enduro race... lets just say the helmet did it's job.
  • 5 0
 At face value, I think my comment could be interpreted as harsh. With a little more back story or explanation, maybe it'll not seem so harsh. I've also been using this helmet for a couple months. I don't have any quips with it. I think Bell knocked this one out of the park, but it's meant to be an aggressive trail helmet. It's not necessarily a DH helmet.

The shell is pretty stiff despite being made in 2 pieces and latched together. The construction however, is more like a typical bicycle helmet than a traditional full face. There's less foam in this thing and less plastic in the shell than most full face helmets, so I can't imagine it'll protect as well as one. That being said, for the trail riding I do, I'm okay with the compromise. I wanted a helmet that was full face, but wouldn't kill me on the climbs. It's lightweight. It's very well ventilated. It's more protective than a typical half shell helmet. Overall, it's a perfect helmet for the riding I do, but it's probably not the perfect choice for a DH rider.

Another thing I'll mention here is that the "overbrow ventilation" called out on the Bell website isn't a load of marketing crap. That's actually very valid. I wear this helmet both commuting and mountain biking, and when I keep the visor turned up in the air, it does seem to push air directly into the forehead vents. I've never had a better helmet when it comes to ventilation.

@onemanarmy I am glad your buddy's helmet did the job it needed to do.
  • 1 0
 Valuable info!
  • 17 0
 Can I have a remote for the chinbar?
  • 13 1
 How long till other helmet makers go down this route? An A1 with a removable chin bar that meets the dh standard would surely be a winner.
  • 10 0
 Just a heads up, the size large isn't very large.. It claims to be up to 63cm (which is usually an xl size), but I don't know how accurate that is. There was no way I was going to get that on my head. I know this doesn't apply to a lot of people, but I know there are others out there with a big head.
  • 2 0
 Which is unfortunate as they make the Stoker (a cheaper helmet with similar rear coverage) in an XL size which is 61-65cm, but not the more expensive Super in a similar size. I don't understand, do manufacturer think that people with big heads won't spend the money for a quality helmet?
  • 1 0
 It's a manufacturing cost thing. There are less people out there with mega-huge heads. Same reason some bike manufacturers don't make an extra large DH bike frame.
  • 1 0
 Website says large is 58-62, be nice if they would make a XL for us melon heads :-). I have the hardest time finding helmets and L/XL are always just ever so slightly too small with my 62/62.5 size head. Going to run down to bike shop and try one of these on though, they might fit big. Had a XL Stoker (61-65) that I used and cracked a few weeks ago :-), and the XL Stoker was almost too big. So hoping that Super is the same and L will fit comfortably.
  • 1 0
 Reply back if it fits!
  • 1 0
 If it helps at all my head is on the larger side of medium. The large with chin-bar was way too big and without the chin-bar the medium super fits with a little bit of room to spare. The LBS didnt have any mediums in stock with the chin-bar, so I was just checking the large to get a feel for the chin-bar. To be safe, just go try it on, or check the return policy before you order online.
  • 2 0
 Did you loosen the retention system?

I bought my dad a helmet not to long ago and he said... man this is tight. I loosened the fit system and guess what... it fit.

May seem like a stupid question but you'd be amazed how many people don't do that. I'm a solid 60 and the Large fits me fine.
  • 1 0
 I wear a size L Super, and the Size L Super 2R MIPS was definitely small. I don't think it's just a circumference issue--it feels like the helmet is narrower near the temples. I'm going to give the non-MIPS version a try to see if there's more room in there.
  • 1 0
 Thanks for the heads up. Badum ching.
  • 1 0
 Haha.... Actually, in some comments below a couple folks mentioned that you can take out these 2 pads stuck to the sides of the inner shell above the ears and take the squeeze off your temples. I gave it a shot before sending my 2R MIPS back and now it fits just like my Super.
  • 1 0
 Got to agree on that. I'm a size 62, mainly as my skull is very "square" I ordered the largest Super 2R and although I could get the helmet on without the chin guard on, there was NO WAY it would fit with the chin guard. Returned, dissapointedly.
  • 10 0
 Im getting one for racing enduro/ taking laps on some of the gnar in Squamish. I wish I had a full face for the rock rolls, or bigger jumps, but never when out for a 4 hour tour.
  • 25 0
 If you're doing big jumps bring a proper full face. No disrespect to the 2R, but don't short change protection on your dome.
  • 6 0
 @mikekazimer Is there any word on whether or not this helmet will be allowed in North American enduro races requiring a full-face? I've talked to a couple industry people who weren't entirely sure, but thought it might not be allowed at Enduro races that utilize stages in bike parks, as their full-face helmets usually require the north american certification for full-faces.

Entirely speculation, but I am just curious what you've heard/know? It's a bit of a major factor for purchasing for me, because I'd be buying the helmet to use at bigger enduro races that I'm planning on this year (Crankworx, Crested Butte), but if the helmet won't even be allowed, then I may not buy.

Thanks for reading!
  • 2 1
 but the met parachute, you don't notice the chin bar at all so no need to remove it.
  • 4 0
 I got one a couple of weeks ago, mainly to help give me a bit more confidence with descending as I'm getting faster and a little bigger. I've got a huge head but the large fits perfectly. Tried riding with the chin bar on the climbs and it's very very well ventilated so haven't felt the need to keep taking if it on and off. Don't know what it'd be like in the summer, but so far been a superb purchase. Got the Matt black and white one, honestly can't recommend the thing enough. Spent a little extra for the mips one just because of availability issues. Get one.
  • 2 0
 Does anyone know if it is be possible to mount a longer visor from other Bell fullface models on Super2R? I think the visor is to short, if it would be longer like on most fullface helmets, this would be a sick looking helmet
  • 2 0
 I purchased the Bell Super 2R a week ago. I was riding down hill moving pretty fast. I veered off the trail a little to avoid the washed out trail and hit a big rock covered by a bush. It threw directly onto my head. I hit hard enough that my hands and feet were paralyzed for about five minutes. I was rushed to the ER and they did MRI and CT scans. They said that the helmet saved me from having a concussion. I did have three herniated disks in my neck and I need surgery on those. I believe the helmet did its job and the MIPS technology saved me from having a concussion. I highly recommend buying the Bell Super 2r helmet.
  • 4 2
 Now for an actually IMPORTANT question...

Is this helmet orange or pink?

I swear, either the photo editor hacks on all the MTB sites (see first pic @ top of page) aren't processing the colors of these photos right, or this helmet is actually pink.

Some photos out there it's nuclear neon orange, in others it's the color of smoked salmon.

I ask because I have one on order and can't wear a pink helmet, no matter how amazing it is.
  • 1 0
 "Colors: Infrared, Matte Black / White, Matte Titanium / Red, Matte Black, White."
  • 2 0
 Nope, @MasterSlater, it's not pink. On our test helmet the chinbar is a slightly different (lighter) color than the rest of the helmet and does have a slightly pinkish hue, but it's still closer to orange than pink. It's a fluorescent color, which is extremely hard to replicate digitally.
  • 4 0
 I work in a shop that sells these and personally i think it is pink! It is meant to be a red colour but i would call it a salmony red, we have a lot of people in who say they wanted the "infrared" but they are very disapointed with the colour once they have see it!
  • 14 0
 It's Orink. Or more precisely, pornge.
  • 1 0
 Thanks for clarifying Mike. I figured it was probably a problem with the true color translating via photo. And even if it's got a slight pink hue, I'm kidding. The black one would cook my skull here in SoCal, and the white one is boring in my opinion.
  • 1 0
 It's red... on the orange side of red. Not pink at all. There's also other colors available. The matte black is dope.
  • 1 0
 Just got mine, opened it, and tried my damndest to believe it's orange for like 30 minutes... I'm sorry, unless I'm some kind of crazy colorblind, this helmet is DEFINITELY PINK.

The ONLY legitimate comparison is the "red" color that Nike started using 3 or 4 years ago on their men's shoes.

www.nikeairjordanonlinestore.com/Men-Nike-Air-Max-2014-Running-Shoes-Red-Black.html

Yes... That link is for a pair of "red" Nike men's shoes. That's the shade we're talking.

Not sure how I've gotten so far off base of what Mike and onemanarmy are seeing. And by no means do I feel like it's a "bad" color, it's just not the color for me.

But bottom line, it's going back and being exchanged for the matte black & gray color.
  • 1 0
 Okay, for anyone who gives a sh*t, my wife (professional graphics designer & pro photographer) says its undeniably, unequivocably, irrefutably ORANGE.

She color corrects and processes magazine editorial photos for a living, and as avid painter/illustrator in her spare time, she knows her colors.

My apologies to both Mike Kazimer and onemanarmy, as I am willing to disagree with strangers on the Internet, disagreeing with my wife carries its own unique and more immediate perils. Smile

So while I'm technically wrong by doggedly insisting it's pink. But be forewarned, it's a very strange shade of orange/red.
  • 1 0
 Ha, no worries @MasterSlater - I'm in complete agreement that it's an uncommon color, and it looks different depending on the light as well. Believe me, I spent an inordinate amount of time staring at the helmet and my computer screen trying to get them to match.
  • 1 0
 I'd have to agree that the color is odd. I actually just went and picked one up because I thought maybe I was loosing my mind. It isn't as dark as I remembered in my head. LOL! I still don't know if I'd say pink... but either way... the matt black one is way sicker anyways.
  • 3 1
 I'm off to Las Vegas in a couple of weeks and didn't want the hassle of taking my trails lids AND my full face so this is the perfect compromise, most of my riding is prob gonna be XC/Trails but will be great knowing I can just clip on the chin piece and hey presto..I'm ready to go for some more gnarly DH Smile

I don't think its ugly, its far better looking any previous trails/detachable chin guard type that's out there.
  • 1 0
 Bootleg canyon?
  • 1 0
 Well hopefully yeah...staying on west side of town, there are a few little trails there but may need to arrange a lift to Bootleg and anywhere else that is gnarly.
  • 1 0
 Bootleg is awesome, huge network of trails, but make sure you wear all your pads if your gonna hit the downhill trails.
  • 1 0
 If your going to bootleg I would definatley recomend this helmet. The XC stuff can get very techy.
  • 1 0
 That the idea..have it in trail mode for general riding and have chin bit in back pack or strapped on somehow and clip it on....Ive ordered the Titanium/Red from Jensen Smile
  • 2 0
 It makes no sense why Bell would certify the Super2R, as they already sell certified full face helmets. You want one? Buy a Full 9. You want a convertible helmet with more protection than half shell? Buy a Super 2R.

"This helmet was like Shoei teamed up with TLD to produce the Edge + "RaceFace" removeable chin guard."

Where's the credit to Dan Severson? www.pinkbike.com/news/hans-rey-bike-vault-2015.html
  • 5 8
 They tried to get it certified... It failed.. doesn't mention that in above advert Wink
  • 3 0
 I bought a Super 2 MIPS yesterday (not the 2R), and rode in Sedona, AZ. I was very impressed, fits great, lightweight, good vents. Size L is the biggest there is, I usually wear an XL, but the L fit me just fine. PK
  • 1 0
 You can order the chin bar separately. Good choice on MIPS.
  • 2 0
 How do you order the chin bar seperately?? I have a normal Bell Super, will it fit?
  • 1 0
 Just got one of these and so far so good. It suits my usual rides up in the Santa Cruz mtns, where I'll hit a few jumps then do some moderately technical downhill. Before I would strap the full face on the water pack for the ascent, which would always rub my 7 y.o. the wrong way when I would leave - "but dada, you always make me wear mine..." Now I'm double standard free. Wife likes it for the same reason. I have a 56cm head and the medium seems to be the right fit, though as it says in the review, my ears do hit, which I'm getting used to. It does ride pretty low. I tried on a small and there was no way that would work. The chin bar is super easy to install and remove, and it fits nicely on the outside of my pack. One thing though that happened that people should watch out for: the head tensioner on the helmet I brought home was broken...I realized this when I was experimenting with the fit and pulled the helmet forward while it was on. The tensioner would just break free even with minimal pull. Everyone should try this before purchasing. Luckily my shop stood behind it and they swapped out a tensioner from another helmet and I was good to go. Overall I'm really stoked on this helmet. It is a win win and it's just right for most of the riding I do. It's not a replacement for my full face/leatt when I'm trying a new dh or jump, but it gets the thumbs up from me.
  • 2 0
 I bought this as soon as i found out about it, and for tropical riders who ride uphill in 34 degree heat, its a godsend. I used to wear my FF 661, and the super 2R is so light in comparison.
  • 1 0
 Anybody else having issues with the adjustable head strap of the Bell Super 2R?
I got mine few days ago and noticed that the strap that you can adjust in the back comes loose very easily if I just wiggle the helmet a little with my hand while wearing it. Turns it's just attached to the shell by one tiny push button on each side and one of them is not mounted properly:
dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/37581795/bell_super_2r.jpg

But even if it was mounted correctly, I'm sure the head strap would come off immediately in case of a crash. Then the helmet would no longer sit tight and won't give the full protection, in particular if I'm not wearing the chin bar for once.
So is it just me or did Bell do a really poor job constructing the fixture of the head strap?

In any case, my helmet goes back to the shop first thing tomorrow.
  • 1 0
 An article I read said that a typical MIPS insert adds about 5mm of material to the overall thickness of the helmet. If the MIPS helmet has the exact internal diameter (ID) and well as outer diameter (OD) as the non-MIPS helmet, it will have essentially traded cushioning for the MIPS insert. Does anyone know if the non-MIPS has the same ID and OD as the MIPS super 2R? I'm going to buy one but I'm torn on which one to buy.
  • 2 1
 Note on sizing - my head circumference is ~59 cm and every other helmet I've bought in the last 20 years has been a large or extra large, but I just bought a Bell Super in medium and it fits perfectly, including wearing a thin bandanna to reduce sweat. So try before you buy.

Didn't get the version 2 as it doesn't have the Australian Standard sticker (yet) and will also use it for commuting, so wouldn't risk a lawyer looking for a cheap excuse not to pay up...
  • 1 0
 Your head is about normal size I think. You don't have a big head till your in the 63cm range (like mine).
  • 1 0
 Yup, that's a big noggin! ;-)

I'm just saying anyone who normally buys a large sized helmet (like me) and is thinking of buying a Bell Super, to try one on for size first.
  • 1 0
 I bought the 2R from Jenson the day it came out.
First I hauled the chin bar in my pack, then I just let it hang around my neck, then I decided that since the chin bar itself had a lot of ventilation, to leave it attached while climbing to see if I could still get plenty of air in, and sure enough, no problems whatsoever.
Where it differs from a true DH helmet insofar as breathing is concerned, is as I just mentioned, it's got a lot more ventilation in the area than a DH helmet, and it's pretty-much as easy to breath as wearing an open-face helmet.
FWIW, I found it easier to mount the chin bar while wearing th.e helmet, and doing so only took maybe 20 seconds after I got a feel for it(installing and removing it a few times)
  • 1 0
 Say rolling terrain with some gnarl, high speeds. DH full face too much for breathability&heat. My idea would be a "light" fullface. So Bell super r2 with chinbar permanently on, met parabellum, archienduro or what? Archienduro had negative comments because the chin bar is so thin that it can dig into loser ground i remember. Parabellum better in that sense?
  • 2 0
 It's not the thinness of the chinbar that caused people to have accidents with the archienduro, it's that it doesn't curve back toward your face like a normal full face. It's like a mini shovel shape, with a little peice of rubber in front of it. The Met meets some of the full face safety standards that the Bell doesn't. If you're going to use it as a full face all the time, I'd pick the Met.
  • 1 0
 I see ; ) And what about going up and down hills for 3-5 hours with 700 g helmet, does that strain?
  • 1 0
 I'm old school, & used to just wear an actually heavy, full-on full face almost all the time, Or a half shell skid lid, so I choked when the review mentioned the Bell being heavy: It's probably be the lightest helmet I've ever owned. Pretty sure XC helmets were heavier the last time I owned one(10+ years ago.)

So I probably don't have a very good frame of reference for you. That said: depends on the climbs. If these climbs are someplace that you can do them safely without a helmet, I'd just go without, strap the helmet on for the downs. If you need a helmet for the ups, then why not pull the chinbar off, instead of leaving it on all the time?
  • 2 0
 That's the advantage of the Super 2R and why many people will choose to buy it; because you can remove the chin bar for the (3-5 hour) climbs.! If you are a rider who enjoys the uphills and enjoys some gnarly descents even more, then the super 2R will be worth it. Specially for an Enduro race where you are forced to wear a helmet at all times but also have to tackle three 2 hour climbs on the liason stages, this helmet has a definite benefit. Hopefully the chin bar tests were solid enough to take a hard one.

That being said, I would also want a proper DH lid if going only downhill.
  • 1 0
 My whole question about the enduro thing, is that we actually haven't heard from the EWS if this helmet meets their requirements, since the chin bar doesn't pass any tests. We all know what it's intended for: I don't think it's for certain that it will be allowed.

Oh, & keep in mind Sonator said he wasn't going to take the chinbar off at all, that's why I asked why he wouldn't take it off for those 3 hour climbs.
  • 3 2
 I really wanted to like this helmet, but after trying one on in the store, I am going to pass. The fit is significantly different than my Bell Super (which I love). There are weird uncomfortable pressure points. I have heard you can pull out some rubber and they go away, but I don't want to be modding the helmet right out of the box to get an ok fit. The bigger issue is with the chin strap as snug as I could make it (which also wasn't comfortable) I could push on the chin bar with my hand and it would easily make contact with my chin. It wasn't squishing, the whole helmet would rotate down and the bar touched my face. It didn't give me any confidence that in a crash it would do me much good. Doesn't happen with my Kali Savara. I think it is mostly a fit issue though, so I am not knocking the concept or execution, just warning people they should try it on before buying if possible.
  • 1 0
 Same experience for me. Big fan of Bell helmets and have worn several over the years - they just seem to snug up my noggin better than other brands. The Stoker is so comfortable for example, I cinch it up and after a few minutes completely forget I'm wearing it. I was ready to buy the Super2. When it arrived in my local store, I tried it on but was surprised it didn't really fit me very well. In your hands and on your head it "feels" like a half-shell not a typical full-face, more lightweight and less substantial. Feels like it sits "on" your head and with the chin bar pads pressing into your cheeks. Maybe on the trail and after a few rides it breaks in and feels comfortable then? :-\
  • 3 0
 I had the reverse experience. Have a regular super which I like but it never fit my head great. Tried on the 2R and it fits me awesome. Totally love it. I use the chin bar more than I thought on trail rides with some gnar descents. It's better than not having it that's for sure. For hucks, DH and park I still rock my Full9.
  • 1 0
 So you're saying you're not willing to make fit adjustments on your helmet when you purchase it? These helmets are made to fit as many people as possible and by doing that, adjustment is built in and part of the process. Seems kind of short sited and lazy to abandon a piece of equipment because you won't take a few minutes to dial in the fit... once.
  • 1 0
 @onemanarmy. Adjust straps, add/remove foam, and other adjustments built into the product? Sure, I will do all of that. Remove parts that Bell suggests you leave in? Parts that press uncomfortably and others have had issues with? Maybe, if I thought it would make it as comfortable as my current Super. But not when gently pushing the chin bar causes it to make contact with my face, particularly as there is no padding there on the chin bar. Given my head shape, the chin bar didn't really seem to work as intended. Maybe I have a weird shaped head. Maybe my jaw sticks way out. I don't blame Bell. I think this is going to be a great product for a lot of people. For some people, myself included, unfortunately (since I was planning on getting this helmet), fit issues may cause it not to work for them.
  • 3 0
 Just got the 2R and compared it to my Super. The Super fits me well (round head) and I noticed that there were 2 pressure points on the 2R that presses against my head. It actually hurts when I left the helmet on for over 5 minutes, which didn't happen with my Super. Upon looking at the interior of both helmets, the 2R has these extra vinyl pads right above your ear that the Super doesn't have. Strange because I was under the impression that they were the same helmet on top. I guess the 2 and 2R would be the same. Anyways, I just pulled out the vinyl pieces (it was glued on) and now it fits like my Super. Not sure why Bell decided to put these in to make your head hurt and if taking them out would compromise the helmet somehow. Most certified half lids don't have anything like this so I'm sure it's fine to remove them. I have a TLD D2 and yes, it's much more burly but it's so not practical, I never end up using it for my weekly riding. Overall, nice helmet and I've been waiting for something like this for years.
  • 2 0
 ndinh--Thanks for posting your fix. I was initially worried that the two side pads had something to do with the attachment points for the chin bar, but no---they're just there for discomfort, apparently. Smile I removed those pads and the 2R MIPS fits just as well as my Super 1.
  • 1 0
 I am not sure I understand the purpose of this helmet. The opening paragraph seems to suggest that it exists for those that don't want to deal with the additional weight of a full face...but if you have to carry the chin bar in your bag so you can put it on later aren't you essentially carrying the weight of the full face anyway? Also I can't really think of very many trails where this would t be completely obnoxious to me (and perhaps more importantly my riding buddies). Stopping at every DH transition to take the chin bar on and off would be super annoying. If I am riding DH terrain, I shuttle and bring my full face, if I am riding XC terrain I wear my half shell. If I am riding a trail that has aggressive enough terrain to merit the use of a full face I ride with a full face. I file this concept in the "sun-roof category. It seems really nice on paper, but in the real world it hardly ever gets put to use.
  • 2 0
 I personally hate climbing with my full face on. For shuttling... sure. But for climbs followed by single track... thats what this is built for. Takes 10 seconds to put the chin bar on. And me personally... I use my sunroof all the time.
  • 1 0
 I often ride a trail system where I start out with 45 min of easy flowy singletrack with a lot of pedalling, wearing open helmet, 10 min. transfer on gravel and easy singletrail. Then I reach a new section witch is also around 45 min, but this is technical, drops, rock gardens gap jumps etc, still a lot of pedalling though, before I start this loop I put on pads and fullface... After this loop I once agin have and easy transfer of 30 min or so to get back to the car. Super 2r is perfect for this. A day on the hill pushing up, bombing down I still wear DH Fullface and bodyarmor.
  • 1 0
 I crashed three weeks ago wearing tld medusa and it saved my life or a several lession. I rode this track before wear a xc hellmet. Bell Troy lee giro; doesn't matter just wear a helmet. That's the point.
  • 1 0
 Went looking for one of these just now, tried on the large too small. No XL size, none for me... ok lets try my 12yo daughter, yup small is too big..... Sorry Bell, you have a great product that I just cant buy.
  • 4 1
 If you crash a lot like me and compromise just one piece, can you buy the other piece separately?
  • 3 2
 first world problems>

I like this lid, I need this lid, my riding (and my face and teeth) warrant this lid....but, I also have an iPhone 4.

What would you do???

/first world problems>
  • 2 0
 @azmtbr

it's the first world.

u simply get them both. :-)

surely your loved ones can't object to a safer helmet?!? that's my line of defense.
  • 3 3
 Go feel these " lightweight full face helmets " in a store before commenting .they are complete shit you can bend the chin guard easily with almost no force from your hands . It's a joke . Ride a full face or a half shell there is no in between that actually works .....otherwise we would all be using them .
  • 1 1
 So you've ridden with one? Did you twist it with it on your head?

Just wondering because the reviewer has been riding this for months.
  • 3 0
 I'll most definitely be buying one of these in a few months...
  • 1 0
 IMO I have had the super and the super 2 they both feel exactly the same so if u don't need the chin bar or the MIPS save money and get the first one.
  • 1 0
 For us bigger-headed people, there are some glued-in inserts in the 2R that I needed to take out before the fit was the same. Now it's great.
  • 1 1
 I just got the "Infrared" delivered today. Its not red at all. Depending on how the light hits it, it looks hot pink or neon orange. $220 for a helmet and they can't get a color right. Wtf
  • 6 3
 I had this helmet 15 years ago! Giro switchblade!!! What's old is new!!!
  • 5 5
 ep1.pinkbike.org/p4pb670343/p4pb670343.jpg

worked well for you then? ;-) not saying the bell would be much better.
  • 5 2
 Don't they know we all ride with no packs and water bottles now !
  • 1 1
 If you're riding without a water bottle then you're shuttling... shuttling... buy a true full face.
  • 1 0
 I've been using endurorider.pl/2007/12/casco-viper for years and hope to see Bell in reality very soon. It might be just the right helmet for all day epics.
  • 2 0
 That was in the Hans "no way" Ray story. Is it the same one from the 90's or a new model?

Also I thought the bell was ugly until I laid eyes on that monster.
  • 1 0
 Obviously it's NOT the same helmet Smile When it comes to face protection I don't give a poo is it's nice or not - it must be strong enough to save my teeth.
  • 2 0
 Mike, have you tried using it with goggles on with the chin bar attached? Clearance looks a bit on the small size.
  • 3 0
 there's plenty of room for goggles. I have Smith and 100% goggles and there's zero clearance issues. One of my favorite features is the fact that my goggles stoe perfectly on the brim below the visor.
  • 1 0
 I've got monster Oakley Airbrake MX's and they fit fine.
  • 1 2
 One crash at Annadel and you will have a mouthful plastic to go with your teeth - thx Bell! I don't understand why anyone rides with an open face helmet ever, for any terrain. I also don't understand why no one can construct a DH certified helmet that is ventilated/light enough for climbing and strong enough for certification.
  • 1 0
 Got a pic? curious to see
  • 1 0
 you crashed with one of these on at Annadel?
  • 1 0
 So you've crashed with one of these on?

Doesn't matter how you construct a chin bar... no chin bar is better for climbing. Don't know about you but I don't like breathing my own breath when I climb.

This is not a DH helmet. It is however in my opinion the best product on the market for enduro riders and your average single track rider.
  • 1 1
 In Bell's test video it only dropped 6 ft and the chin bar goes completely into where your face would be. And no I haven't crashed at Annadel but I read the local papers and they are constantly taking people out of there on stretchers usually with head/facial injuries from hitting rocks. I guess it just depends how fast you ride and how much you like your face : )
  • 2 0
 You'll notice that they tested it at twice the required height and added two additional tests as well.

Bottom line... in my opinion... if you're doing shuttling or serious downhill riding... buy a dedicated full face. If you're riding trails, single track, etc and looking for something better than your standard half helmet but don't want to sacrifice in the climb... this is perfect.

To me it's like anything else. I'll come at it like a subaru since I'm a subaru junkie. My car has seen the track, the snow, mud, gravel, dirt, long road trips, and survived a toddler, a golden retriever and an akita. It's set up to do a lot of those things better than must. But if you compared it to... say my buddies car (back cover of super street this month)... well.. his is faster. It's track car. Or if was out doing serious 4x4 work... I'd probably want something else.

Specialized gear for specialized purposes. Then you have your jack of most stuff.... like my subaru. Like this helmet. Sucker rips for who it was designed for.
  • 1 0
 @hgrenade

well...a guy crashed right behind me there once in that main rock garden. right onto his freaking face. I heard a sick crack and stopped dead in my tracks.

I'm positive he would have loved ome of these that day.

oddly enough...on the same ride there was a rider who wore a full face. he was hot and miserable.
  • 1 0
 @onemanarmy I get that you are a fan of this - all I am saying is that I would love a helmet that is strong enough for DH cert and light/ventilated enough for the climbs. When I point my bike downhill, I am going fast and I don't trust this or the Met. They would not save my face in a serious crash. The good news is I don't crash going uphill so I can just take my FF off : )

@pancakeflatted yep Annadel is brutal is you like to go fast. One mistake will be costly.
  • 2 0
 @hgrenade

I currently run a dh fullface and I do the same thing. Take it off. But in Enduro racing you can't. You have to have a lid on at all times. That's really where this thing hits it's stride.

If I'm shuttling... I'll have my DH lid on.

I see this as an enduro helmet that has a lot of usage for folks that ride XC and do a lot of single track riding.
  • 2 0
 I ride to my rides...and so for me I can't just strap a fullface to my bag... cos I have to ride in a ton of traffic. I can't say that this helmet is perfect for my needs cos I haven't used one...but my guess is that it would be better than crashing right onto my chin once I finally start pointing downward.
  • 1 1
 @onemanarmy agreed and I think its a stupid rule. Requiring a helmet to climb is just dumb. Has anyone actually gotten a head injury from riding 5mph? If I did race enduro I guess I would just use two helmets - still don't trust this. It might be better than nothing but nothing is unacceptable in my book when going down.
  • 1 0
 @pancakeflatted yeah I could see that good point : )
  • 1 0
 Because it is not ATSM certified does that mean you will not be able to use this helmet at a race that requires a full face helmet?
  • 1 0
 Can I buy just the chinbar, for an existing 2015 bell super I got on warranty.
  • 2 1
 I want it. I climb for hours to descend in the summer time. For.me it just makes sense.
  • 2 0
 This or the Met Parachute?
  • 3 1
 MET parachute is awesome. Very good venting and no hotter for having the extra chin bar protection. Great helmet, no faffing with clipping chin bars on and off. Also lighter as a result. Keep it simple....
  • 2 0
 I've got the bell my son has the met .met is better looking . but son says D rings are a bit faf. get which ever fits best you wont be disappointed in either.
  • 1 0
 Don't the cheek pads make it hotter? Though I note they are removable so maybe if that's an issue you could remove cheek pads on climbs instead of removing chin bar. I imagine that would work well to ditch most of the heat and gain most of the ventilation of an open face. (I have yet to try both parachute and 2r side by side - I would like to).
  • 1 1
 You can take the chin bar off the Parachute as well its just a couple of bolts check out a vid of it on you tube it turns it into a bluegrass goldeneye. Its a great lid I'm sure this is too but I went to for the parachute as they did not release it before it was certified to all standards which showed their confidence in it.
  • 1 0
 I've the met parachute and love it. D rings are fine same as my fullfacer. Haven't had to take chin pads out myself but its very easy to do and would help on very warm days. the pads help with the fit and keep it fir on head. the chin bar is very well vented and doesn't affect breathing or heating up.
  • 1 0
 @mtb-wales: that video...can't find it.

P.S. "desembalando," methinks, does not translate as "disassembly," or, if it does, the context refers to the packaging, not the helmet.
  • 1 1
 The chin guard is not meant to be removed from the MET Parachute, it is fixed for increased safety and makes sure it passes certification. The Bell isn't a certified full face helmet. Removing the chin guard on the Parachute will void your warranty.
  • 1 0
 @nick1957

help!!! I don't know what faf means and Google is not useful here.

seriously.
  • 2 0
 fiddly
  • 1 0
 mine, this colour, is arriving today!!! yeahhh... already have one super half shelf, and it´s a great helmet!!!!
  • 4 2
 Without its very nice but with the chinpeace its ugly as hell
  • 1 0
 Did test this helmet, was disapointed. When removing padding, the attach stickers came with it same time..
  • 1 0
 not too sure on that red. looks faded from the sunlight
  • 1 1
 It's much brighter in person... much. Look a the photos on Bell's website. It's much closer to that. But I like the matte black better.
  • 2 1
 Never understood the concept of wearing half of a helmet..
  • 1 1
 For me it's all about climbing. I can't stand wearing my full face when I'm climbing. Half the time I end up taking it off then putting it back on when I finish the climb. This kind of thing is perfect for me. I
  • 2 1
 Kind of like exclamation points!!!!!!! @theedon
  • 3 6
 As a day ride helmet, fitting and removing the chin bar for ups and downs on the same trail, I can't see the point. If you're climbing for ages, just take your helmet off. It's not going to make it hotter to leave the chin bar on, since it's the same helmet. I'm kind of of the opinion that if I'm going fast enough to need a helmet, I'm going to use a full face. But then again that's just me and I don't do day-long rides. If I did, I think the idea that I could use it for shuttling one day, and a ride the next, would definitely be enough for me to consider it. It's a good idea, I'll say that much. I don't think I'd personally purchase one, but I can see there is a market for that type of helmet. It looks good too, which is half the battle.
  • 7 1
 @jaame - The helmet is actually hotter with the chin bar on - there's not as much ventilation, and all of the hot air that you breathe out during a climb has less ways to escape. Plus, for many enduro races helmets are mandatory at all times, even on extra-long climbs.
  • 1 0
 And Mike some of our local Enduro's (Oregon) require a full face helmet.
  • 1 0
 Yeh I didn't think about it from a race perspective. If I was going to get disqualified for putting my helmet on my back I wouldn't do it. So yes, I can definitely see the appeal. Looks like a great product.
  • 3 3
 Get a MET Parachute and enjoy all the benefits of full face protection and enduro helmet weight with the faff.
  • 2 2
 is this the 3rd article on this now? bell must be chuckin some money at pinkbike. hows about a test of the met parachute?
  • 2 5
 Another GIMMICK from the capitalist BRG Sports. You don't need a convertible helmet during a ride. It's either you start and end on a FF helmet or you start and end with a normal helmet. If anything; this helmet may be practical less than .1% of the time. When I ride in my home town I'm in my NORMAL helmet, when I'm in Whistler I ride with my FF helmet. PERIOD!
  • 1 2
 people don t be pro rider and market brand advertisments victims...let s get wearing our full face and all the rest on OUR unprofessional mtb bodies !! thanks !!
  • 2 2
 What? Is that english?
  • 4 6
 "Plus, for $200 you're effectively getting two helmets in one, both possessing excellent fit and function."
- @mikekazimer -

IMHO.
It's one helmet + a removeable chin bar.
  • 11 1
 @TroubleZone13 - Well, in my mind, a full face helmet + a half shell helmet = two helmets.
  • 3 6
 @mikekazimer IMHO, it's originally a half shell helmet. Not a full face.
This helmet was like Shoei teamed up with TLD to produce the Edge + "RaceFace" removeable chin guard.CMIIW.
  • 1 2
 Sorry about the dumb question: but what does the pink comments mean? I always wanted to know.
  • 1 0
 I need an Orange color
  • 4 3
 its so #enduro
  • 10 12
 but its ugly
  • 7 1
 It's also highly explosive!!!!!!!
  • 2 0
 Like Panda Express?
  • 2 2
 Only if ridden on internet.
  • 3 1
 I agree. Ugly.
  • 3 0
 Ugly helmet to protect your beautiful face ?
  • 1 0
 Yep. I will get one of these or the met to protect my ruggedly handsome face. Just waiting to try them both on. If it's fits and I like it I will get one. Even if it's ugly.
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