SIZING - HOW TO ACHIEVE THE PROPER FIT

How do I make sure my helmet fits properly?

To work right, a helmet must fit right and be worn right. You should always wear your helmet low in the front to protect the forehead. Open the cam-lock adjustors on the straps. Put the helmet on and slide the straps through the adjustors until they are located comfortably under the ear area. Make sure there is no slack in any of the straps. Close and lock the cam-lock adjustors. The front and rear straps should join at a point slightly below the ears.

Fasten the chinstrap buckle. Always wear the helmet with the chinstrap buckle fastened and the strap pulled tight. Make sure the strap is well back against the throat, NOT on the point of the chin. Straps worn on the point of the chin increase the chance of a helmet coming off in an accident. Make sure the loose ends of the strap passes through the rubber O-ring. If it does not, the strap may slide loose and the helmet can come off accidentally. The helmet fits correctly when it is held firmly but comfortably in place by the interior fit pads and the retention system. Fit Pads are held in place by hook and loop fasteners. Try any combination of the different thicknesses provided with the helmet until the helmet fits firmly and comfortably. Once you think the proper fit has been achieved, grab the helmet with both hands and twist it to the left and to the right. If the helmet fits right, the skin on the forehead will move as the helmet moves. If it does not, the helmet is too loose. Also, grab the helmet with both hands and try to remove it by rolling the helmet forward and backward as far as you can. Make a serious effort. THIS IS IMPORTANT. If you can roll it off the head completely in either direction, roll it forward so far that it blocks vision, or backward far enough to expose the forehead, it doesn’t fit correctly. If you cannot adjust the helmet to fit properly according to these instructions, DO NOT USE THIS HELMET. Replace it with a different size or model. Once you are satisfied that the helmet fits correctly and that all straps are properly adjusted and tightened, take a short test ride. Pay attention to overall comfort and helmet stability while riding. Make any minor adjustments to the fit pads and straps to improve comfort or stability. If you have questions about fit process, call us at (800) 456-2355 or e-mail us at Answer_Desk@bellsports.com.

REPLACEMENT PARTS

How can I obtain replacement parts for my helmet?

Call us at (800) 456-2355 or e-mail us at Answer_Desk@bellsports.com concerning replacement parts or any questions you may have concerning Bell products.

WARRANTY

What kind of warranty does my helmet come with?

Any Bell helmet determined by Bell to be defective in materials or workmanship within one (1) year from the date of original purchase will be repaired or replaced, at Bell’s option, free of charge when received at the factory freight prepaid, together with proof of purchase. If you have questions regarding the warranty coverage on your helmet, call us at (800) 456-2355, e-mail us at Answer_Desk@bellsports.com, or refer to your helmet owner’s manual.

FREE INSPECTION SERVICE

What if I'm not sure whether or not my helmet has been damaged?

If at any time you are unsure or have questions about your Bell helmet’s condition, you can send it to Bell for a free inspection. Our technician will thoroughly inspect your helmet, note any damage found and make our recommendations on whether the helmet should continue to be used. Call us at (800) 456-2355 or e-mail us at Answer_Desk@bellsports.com for more details on this free service.

I know Bell as a motorcycle helmet company.
What types of bicycling products does Bell make?

It’s true that Bell started out making the world’s first truly protective car racing helmets back in 1954 and the first motorcycle helmets in 1966, but since inventing the first modern bicycle helmet in 1975, Bell’s list of products has grown to include hundreds of bicycle-related products including: bicycle and multi-sport helmets, self-sealing tubes and tires, gel-infused seats and seat pads, tire pumps, locks, light systems, child carriers, mirrors, car racks, bags, speedometers, water bottles, hydration packs and a variety of licensed products.

Where can I buy Bell bicycle products?

Bell bicycle products are sold in most mass retailers, sporting goods stores and bike shops. If you’re not sure where to go in your area, call 1.800.456.BELL and our customer service representatives will help you find a store near you.

What does Bell do to be a good corporate citizen?

Bell supports a number of organizations that focus on keeping people safe, healthy and fit. Organizations that Bell supports include: National SAFE KIDS Campaign, Bikes Belong, International Mountain Biking Association, Protective Headgear Manufacturers Association, and Brain Injury Association of America.

What is CPSC and why is mentioned on your helmets?

CPSC stands for Consumer Products Safety Commission. CPSC is an Independent Federal Regulatory Agency and works to save lives and keep families safe by reducing the risk of injuries and deaths associated with consumer products
As the bike helmet industry leader, Bell takes safety very seriously. By placing the CPSC mark on our helmets, we are indicating to you that the helmet you are purchasing meets or exceeds all of the CPSC requirements for bicycle helmets. We rigorously test all Bell helmets in our test lab in Santa Cruz, CA following CPSC guidelines.

Who wears Bell helmets?

The biggest names in motorsports, cycling and action sports have worn or today wear Bell helmets including:

• Mario Andretti – Auto racing legend; only driver to win Daytona 500, Indy 500 and Formula One world title
• Tyler Hamilton – World renowned cyclist; 4th place in 2003 Tour de France
• Richard Petty – Auto racing legend
• Jeremy McGrath – Motocross and Supercross legend
• Mike Metzger – 2000 Gravity Games silver medalist; 1998-99 Vans Triple Crown champion
• Dave Mirra – BMX hero and MTV celebrity
• Al Unser Jr. – Auto racing superstar

How Do I Take Care of my Helmet?

Cleaning your helmet
Helmets are made of materials that can be damaged by many commonly available cleaners. Petroleum based solvents or cleaners are especially dangerous. They can damage a helmet so that its protective capabilities are significantly reduced. Many times this damage is not visible. For best results, clean the helmet using a soft cloth or sponge, warm water and mild soap (such as a mild dish soap).

Lice
Yes, we said Lice! We get inquiries from day care centers or from people who share their helmets, and are concerned about lice infestation. Do not use a spray of any type. Place the helmet into an airtight plastic bag for 48 hours. Then, remove the pads and use a soft cloth or sponge, warm water and mild soap to clean the surface. Discard the pads and plastic bag (keep bag out of reach of children-suffocation hazard) and visit your local Bell dealer for replacement pads. Or, call us at (800) 456-2355 or e-mail us at Answer_Desk@bellsports.com for replacement pads.

Storing your helmet
After each use allow the helmet to air dry and then store in a cool, dry place. Excessive heat can damage the helmet. In direct sunlight, dark gear bags, the interiors of cars, and automobile trunks can get hot enough to cause heat damage. Damaged helmets will appear to have uneven or bubbly surfaces. When not being used for a period of time, we recommend the helmet be placed back into its box and stored in a cool, dry place. If you have any questions as to the condition of your helmet please call (800) 456-2355 or e-mail us at Answer_Desk@bellsports.com for information on a free inspection.

If your helmet becomes damaged
Helmets don’t last forever. If the helmet is visibly damaged (cracked outer shell, crushed or cracked foam liner or any other damage) don’t use it. Some or all of the helmet’s protective capacity is used up when impacted. The damage to a helmet is not always visible. If you have any questions about your helmet call (800) 456-2355 or e-mail us at Answer_Desk@bellsports.com.

How often should a helmet be replaced?

Bell has a general recommendation of replacing your helmet every three (3) years. If you are unsure of the condition of your helmet, or whether it should be replaced, call us at (800) 456-2355 or e-mail us at Answer_Desk@bellsports.com for information on a free inspection.

Can I paint my helmet?

Bell does not recommend paints or solvents of any kind be used on the helmets. They can damage a helmet so that its protective capabilities are significantly reduced.