Super Air R Spherical Mips from Bell: this bike helmet has you covered

«Will I bring this helmet with me on every ride? Probably not. It’s too heavy for that.» No, this isn’t an early verdict on the Super Air R Spherical Mips helmet from Bell. It’s what I said about the HiDrop full-face helmet from Abus after wearing it during a few rides. Here’s what else I had to say about it:

One drawback of the HiDrop is how heavy it is. Size M weighs in at a whopping 1070 grammes. Isn’t there anything lighter out there? Yes, there is. User «DerDavoser» swears by the full-face helmet from Bell.

Super Air R Spherical Mips from Bell

The full-face helmet from Bell with Spherical Mips technology weighs 640 grammes in size M including the chin guard, and 440 grammes without it. This makes the fully equipped version over 400 grammes lighter than the Abus model. Without the chin guard, however, it’s 100 grammes heavier than the Jackal Kcfrom Lazer, for example.

I treated myself to an upgrade of the model I was recommended. According to the manufacturer, the two safety technologies Mips and Spherical (page in German) combined, mean this helmet offers the highest possible protection against so-called rotational forces that act on the head. And no, I still won’t do what Fabio Wibmer does.

Features

• Ventilation openings: 18
• Weight: 640 / 440 grammes
• Features: removable chin guard, included camera mount, Spherical Mips technology
• Construction: in-mould polycarbonate / EPS /EPP liner / progressive layering / Spherical Mips
• Standards: CE EN 1078
• Visor: hard visor, adjustable and removable

Let’s hear it for the small details

In addition to Spherical and Mips technology, there’s also a chin guard. It’s easy to attach and you don’t need any tools. The Super Air R Spherical Mips also impresses with a number of other features: a rubber dial makes it easy to adjust the helmet so it’s a perfect fit. According to the manufacturer, the pads are made of antimicrobial, quick-drying material with real silver fibres. The Sweat Guide pad from Bell pulls sweat away from the brow and sunglasses, which feels nice. The Goggle Guide System should make this helmet compatible with all standard goggles. I can confirm that this has worked fine with my Buteo model from Abus.

According to Bell, the included camera mount is designed to come off the helmet in the event of a crash. This can reduce the risk of injury. And finally, there’s the ventilation system that directs cool air into the inside of the helmet via channels above the eyebrows. Deeper channels then distribute this air to the outside. This makes the Super Air R Spherical Mips comfortable to wear.