Helmets: Bell Star - Who has one?

SomeStrangeGuy · 04-28-2009, 04:59 PM

The New Bell Star

I don't hear much about this, but have been considering one...any feedback from the members here?

SheepOfBlue · 04-28-2009, 05:14 PM

Saw one at the trade show in Indy. The Bell folks were intense and this seems real important to the company. The helmet was well made and comfortable to me (I have RX7's) The sizing was a bit different with a large seeming to be the best fit vs a XL that I wear now. Seemed a bit heavier than my Arai. In short seemed like a good helmet but in the price range I would prefer a Shoei or Arai

SomeStrangeGuy · 04-28-2009, 05:18 PM

cool, thanks

I'm strongly considering one...only because the latest RX7 is feejing 800$?!?!

I dunno...don't ride on a track at all, but I'd like something that knows how to deal with wind and moves alot of air and doesen't sacrifice protection. I like my X11, but somehow it feels tiny on me now and I've been sporting my old RX7 alot more.

Then again I've also been told an XD3 would be alot more my speed? who knows?

08silvercbr · 04-28-2009, 10:33 PM

Not sure about that one but I've had Bell MX helmets I had no issues with, and would buy again. For some reason they don't seem to be as popular in the street bike scene, but I don't know why.

luvtolean · 04-28-2009, 10:36 PM

Because their product line has sucked.

Last time I saw a "Bell" it was a cheap Chinese POS bicycle helmet, just what I want to associate with the only protection my head has at 170MPH.

Though I've had their helmets in the past, they ruined their brand.

G-ForceJunkie · 04-28-2009, 11:45 PM

I talked to the Bell guys at the L.A. moto convention. Your right, Bell was the standard up through the '80's. They told me that the helmet division got sold off and your right, the new owners started putting the Bell sticker on cheap china POS. I was told they had bought back the name and were going to be pushing back into the market with quality helmets. I tried on their dirt bike helmets they had there and was impressed with the quality. Havent seen their street models yet. Still got my Ricky Johnson Moto 4 somewhere...

08silvercbr · 04-28-2009, 11:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by G-ForceJunkie

I talked to the Bell guys at the L.A. moto convention. Your right, Bell was the standard up through the '80's. They told me that the helmet division got sold off and your right, the new owners started putting the Bell sticker on cheap china POS. I was told they had bought back the name and were going to be pushing back into the market with quality helmets. I tried on their dirt bike helmets they had there and was impressed with the quality. Still got my Ricky Johnson Moto 4 somewhere. Havent seen their street models yet. ...

Me too.. And moto 5. Favorite rider of all time

bwhip · 04-29-2009, 12:24 AM

A racer buddy of mine has a new one and seems to like it very much.

SomeStrangeGuy · 04-29-2009, 12:37 AM

Kewl...I am meeting a dude tomorrow to try one on and if "the shoe fits" I'll be able to report on one

SomeStrangeGuy · 04-29-2009, 11:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SomeStrangeGuy

Bell Star - Who has one?

I do

Pretty quality looking helmet, I think Shoei and Arai have something to fear. Bell is bringing sexy back, and I have a sportybike helmet that matches the GS now

f1_hurricane · 04-30-2009, 12:17 AM

Up here that damn lid is going for over a grand a the local dealership.

G-ForceJunkie · 04-30-2009, 12:55 AM

Post your review after a month or so...my X-11 is due for replacement.

SomeStrangeGuy · 05-02-2009, 11:45 AM

I'll make it a point to get it out today or tomorrow

SomeStrangeGuy · 05-03-2009, 12:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by G-ForceJunkie

Post your review after a month or so...my X-11 is due for replacement.

First - try one on, walk around for a few, let it sit. I found the L to fit me just as my XL Arai and Shoei X-11 did. The L seemed to fit me fine (didn't bother trying an XL as it is an entire shell-size up). After running around in it for an hour today I have a hot spot/pressure point on the top center of my skull. After about 30 min I wanted to rip it off my head. I came home and got it off my head, looked around and it wasn't obvious how this was being caused. I put it back on and didn't notice it again.

. I'm in the air on this one.

HOWEVER, I want to make this thing work...it's an awesome helmet. Likely the best that has ever touched my head and that counts more expensive stuff I tried on

Pro's:

The most airflowing helmet I've used, ever. Think mesh ballcap and you're starting to get close.
Has the AWESOMEST and fastest shield removal system that I have ever used.
Looks to be constructed of some really quality parts and pieces, and unlike some other major brands...my 7 year old niece could probably rip the pads out and put them back in. There are aluminum bits in place of plastic ones on some others too.
This is the most engineered helmet I've ever laid eyes on. Everything goes together with a snap or a click and there is no fudge factor or stretching pieces to conform etc. it just works.
The shield is allegedly anti-fog and in my limited use of it, it is.
INCLUDED with the helmet is an actual helmet bag, like a 40-50$ value bag, not a freeking sock.
The shield position is easy to use and actually has two 'lock' positions on the lever...one that compresses the shield against the seals nicely. The other position locks it open a very tiny bit, you cannot flip it or close it in the locked vent position - I like that.
Maybe not the lightest, but side to side of my RX7-RR3 and X-11, it feels alot lighter and more balanced...if that makes sense.

Con's:

Eh, I guess that bump that was bugging me...I need to find.
The shield that comes with it seems to scratch easily.
It may have to do with the airflow aspect, but it doesen't seem to come as far 'down' my head as others do. The padding is alll where it should be but the shell looks to end slightly higher. I have no measurements to confirm this yet.
I'm thinking really hard here...gimme a few.

I am going to try it out a few more times before I offer more, but the above is my hit list.

seamus · 05-03-2009, 12:34 PM

Had the same hotspot issues with my flight helmets at times. Make sure the fabric inside the helmet didn't bunch, even a little. Something as small as a bunch in the fabric as you pull the helmet on can cause a hot spot over time. When you take it off, you won't notice anything abnormal in the helmet itself and may not be able to replicate it.

If it happens again, look for a ripple in the fabric immediately after taking it off. It'll look like someone ironed a wrinkle in the fabric but if you wait too long, it'll smooth back out and you'll be left scratching your head wondering WTF is up.

SomeStrangeGuy · 05-03-2009, 12:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by seamus

Had the same hotspot issues with my flight helmets at times. Make sure the fabric inside the helmet didn't bunch, even a little. Something as small as a bunch in the fabric as you pull the helmet on can cause a hot spot over time. When you take it off, you won't notice anything abnormal in the helmet itself and may not be able to replicate it.

If it happens again, look for a ripple in the fabric immediately after taking it off. It'll look like someone ironed a wrinkle in the fabric but if you wait too long, it'll smooth back out and you'll be left scratching your head wondering WTF is up.

Yah that is what I am thinking...the liner TDC in the helmet is a 'strip' rather than a cover, so I am suspecting what you said above to be the cause. I will try it again in real world conditions and follow up for certain.

I did visit the Bell site again and make sure that my head is the right size and it is. My egg is 60cm exactly and the L is 58-60 and XL is 61-62. I haven't had this issue with other helmets so I am assuming it's something to do with how I put it on or positioned it after riding.

Thanks Seamus

slickwill · 05-03-2009, 03:57 PM

I checked them out and they look really nice but pretty spendy.

phobe · 05-03-2009, 10:36 PM

It would take one damned fine lid to replace my X11, the most perfect crash helmet ever made.

SomeStrangeGuy · 05-04-2009, 01:25 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by phobe

It would take one damned fine lid to replace my X11, the most perfect crash helmet ever made.

ditto, thats why mine is on the shelf.

Unreal · 05-05-2009, 05:36 PM

I have an X-11 and Star. I wear my star now.

My only issue is trying to find a replacement shield. No one local has them so I may have to order one online.

Photo by Bwhip
http://home.comcast.net/~nvisokey/mm8.JPG

SomeStrangeGuy · 05-05-2009, 06:06 PM

nice

Yeah, I had the same issue...all my local stocking dealers told me they could order me one. The wife suggested I try Motorcycle shops instead

but still no luck.

motorcyclesuperstore.com seems to have the best pricing thus far, 40$ shipped IIRC for the basic ones. I was holding out for a pinlock unit myself...

Unreal · 05-11-2009, 05:33 PM

I ordered some 55mm cheek pads and tinted visor. Looking forward to seeing how it helps.

SomeStrangeGuy · 05-11-2009, 06:39 PM

Mines for sale..I bought an L, need an XL. Dammit.

..now saving for an XL, this is the awesomest helmet ever.

SomeStrangeGuy · 05-12-2009, 08:22 AM

This isn't an FS thread, but 275$ for the above mentioned unit. + shipping to your locale.

SomeStrangeGuy · 05-19-2009, 04:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SomeStrangeGuy

This isn't an FS thread, but 275$ for the above mentioned unit. + shipping to your locale.

No takers eh?

ND4SPD · 05-19-2009, 08:34 AM

It's not an FS thread.

SomeStrangeGuy · 05-19-2009, 11:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ND4SPD

It's not an FS thread.

I am trying not to waste threads, I'm doing it for the kids!

seamus · 05-19-2009, 10:25 PM

How very green of you.

04-28-2009, 04:59 PM	#1
SomeStrangeGuy maybe this was a bad idea. Join Date: 12-13-2006 Location: Debt, where else? Age: 2 Bike(s): GS RR Posts: 7,665 Images: 5	Bell Star - Who has one? The New Bell Star I don't hear much about this, but have been considering one...any feedback from the members here? __________________ Come find yourself - GPS Discussion Forums Time is the ultimate currency. The Seamii are awesome.

04-28-2009, 05:14 PM	#2
SheepOfBlue Vote Sheep Or Else Join Date: 12-18-2006 Location: Huntsville, AL Age: 47 Bike(s): CBR1000RR, RC51, VT500FT Posts: 10,444	Saw one at the trade show in Indy. The Bell folks were intense and this seems real important to the company. The helmet was well made and comfortable to me (I have RX7's) The sizing was a bit different with a large seeming to be the best fit vs a XL that I wear now. Seemed a bit heavier than my Arai. In short seemed like a good helmet but in the price range I would prefer a Shoei or Arai __________________ Find one in every car. You'll see.

04-28-2009, 05:18 PM	#3
SomeStrangeGuy maybe this was a bad idea. Join Date: 12-13-2006 Location: Debt, where else? Age: 2 Bike(s): GS RR Posts: 7,665 Images: 5	cool, thanks I'm strongly considering one...only because the latest RX7 is feejing 800$?!?! I dunno...don't ride on a track at all, but I'd like something that knows how to deal with wind and moves alot of air and doesen't sacrifice protection. I like my X11, but somehow it feels tiny on me now and I've been sporting my old RX7 alot more. Then again I've also been told an XD3 would be alot more my speed? who knows? __________________ Come find yourself - GPS Discussion Forums Time is the ultimate currency. The Seamii are awesome.

04-28-2009, 10:33 PM	#4
08silvercbr no THIS is the one MrsSilver! Join Date: 08-28-2008 Location: Clio, MI Age: 31 Bike(s): 08' 1k, Duc awaiting pkup Posts: 3,699 Images: 23	Not sure about that one but I've had Bell MX helmets I had no issues with, and would buy again. For some reason they don't seem to be as popular in the street bike scene, but I don't know why. __________________ Sent from PC using "smackatalk"

04-28-2009, 10:36 PM	#5
luvtolean It's Who You Know That Counts Join Date: 12-13-2006 Location: Silicon Valley Bike(s): 08 BMW GS-A, 00 CBR929RR Posts: 11,279	Because their product line has sucked. Last time I saw a "Bell" it was a cheap Chinese POS bicycle helmet, just what I want to associate with the only protection my head has at 170MPH. Though I've had their helmets in the past, they ruined their brand. __________________ The battle is fought and decided by the quartermasters before the shooting begins.—Erwin Rommel

04-28-2009, 11:45 PM	#6
G-ForceJunkie Who's driving? Join Date: 12-15-2006 Location: Castaic, CA Bike(s): BMW GS1150 ADV, DRZ400 Posts: 1,280 Images: 1	I talked to the Bell guys at the L.A. moto convention. Your right, Bell was the standard up through the '80's. They told me that the helmet division got sold off and your right, the new owners started putting the Bell sticker on cheap china POS. I was told they had bought back the name and were going to be pushing back into the market with quality helmets. I tried on their dirt bike helmets they had there and was impressed with the quality. Havent seen their street models yet. Still got my Ricky Johnson Moto 4 somewhere...

04-29-2009, 12:24 AM	#8
bwhip An addiction no rehab can cure Join Date: 12-13-2006 Location: Idaho, USA Bike(s): A modest variety Posts: 5,540	A racer buddy of mine has a new one and seems to like it very much. __________________ My Gallery http://www.latebraker.com

04-29-2009, 12:37 AM	#9
SomeStrangeGuy maybe this was a bad idea. Join Date: 12-13-2006 Location: Debt, where else? Age: 2 Bike(s): GS RR Posts: 7,665 Images: 5	Kewl...I am meeting a dude tomorrow to try one on and if "the shoe fits" I'll be able to report on one __________________ Come find yourself - GPS Discussion Forums Time is the ultimate currency. The Seamii are awesome.

04-30-2009, 12:17 AM	#11
f1_hurricane Four feet tall with three feet teeth Join Date: 01-06-2007 Age: 22 Bike(s): 1998 GSXR 750 Posts: 1,125	Up here that damn lid is going for over a grand a the local dealership.

04-30-2009, 12:55 AM	#12
G-ForceJunkie Who's driving? Join Date: 12-15-2006 Location: Castaic, CA Bike(s): BMW GS1150 ADV, DRZ400 Posts: 1,280 Images: 1	Post your review after a month or so...my X-11 is due for replacement.

05-02-2009, 11:45 AM	#13
SomeStrangeGuy maybe this was a bad idea. Join Date: 12-13-2006 Location: Debt, where else? Age: 2 Bike(s): GS RR Posts: 7,665 Images: 5	I'll make it a point to get it out today or tomorrow __________________ Come find yourself - GPS Discussion Forums Time is the ultimate currency. The Seamii are awesome.

05-03-2009, 12:34 PM	#15
seamus Turning is for p***ies Join Date: 12-13-2006 Location: Rocket City Age: 35 Bike(s): 1KRR; VFR; FMX650 Posts: 8,077	Had the same hotspot issues with my flight helmets at times. Make sure the fabric inside the helmet didn't bunch, even a little. Something as small as a bunch in the fabric as you pull the helmet on can cause a hot spot over time. When you take it off, you won't notice anything abnormal in the helmet itself and may not be able to replicate it. If it happens again, look for a ripple in the fabric immediately after taking it off. It'll look like someone ironed a wrinkle in the fabric but if you wait too long, it'll smooth back out and you'll be left scratching your head wondering WTF is up. __________________ Ducit Amor Patriae Richard Herald, The Gentle Giant For once you have tasted flight you will walk the earth with your eyes turned skywards, for there you have been and there you will long to return. ---Leonardo Da Vinci

05-03-2009, 03:57 PM	#17
slickwill ? Join Date: 08-31-2007 Location: Idaho/Iowa Age: 30 Bike(s): XRR 'tard, VFR Posts: 5,019	I checked them out and they look really nice but pretty spendy. __________________ ...dude you ride an offroad bike with slicks, 1/2 the weight of a GS, double the suspension, with a browning 50 cal going off 32" from your skull as a daily freaking driver - I'd expect anything except a nitro dragbike to be bland by comparison - SSG

05-03-2009, 10:36 PM	#18
phobe Obtuse Angler Join Date: 12-17-2006 Location: In the Foothills Age: 28 Bike(s): quarter-litre bike Posts: 5,771	It would take one damned fine lid to replace my X11, the most perfect crash helmet ever made. __________________ Evil will always triumph, because good is dumb. -Dark Helmet Crime ain't sumfin you should do. It's sumfin you should don't. -Ali G

05-05-2009, 05:36 PM	#20
Unreal Join Date: 10-13-2008 Age: 28 Bike(s): Tuono, ZX6R Posts: 20	I have an X-11 and Star. I wear my star now. My only issue is trying to find a replacement shield. No one local has them so I may have to order one online. Photo by Bwhip http://home.comcast.net/~nvisokey/mm8.JPG

05-05-2009, 06:06 PM	#21
SomeStrangeGuy maybe this was a bad idea. Join Date: 12-13-2006 Location: Debt, where else? Age: 2 Bike(s): GS RR Posts: 7,665 Images: 5	nice Yeah, I had the same issue...all my local stocking dealers told me they could order me one. The wife suggested I try Motorcycle shops instead but still no luck. motorcyclesuperstore.com seems to have the best pricing thus far, 40$ shipped IIRC for the basic ones. I was holding out for a pinlock unit myself... __________________ Come find yourself - GPS Discussion Forums Time is the ultimate currency. The Seamii are awesome.

05-11-2009, 05:33 PM	#22
Unreal Join Date: 10-13-2008 Age: 28 Bike(s): Tuono, ZX6R Posts: 20	I ordered some 55mm cheek pads and tinted visor. Looking forward to seeing how it helps.

05-11-2009, 06:39 PM	#23
SomeStrangeGuy maybe this was a bad idea. Join Date: 12-13-2006 Location: Debt, where else? Age: 2 Bike(s): GS RR Posts: 7,665 Images: 5	Mines for sale..I bought an L, need an XL. Dammit. ..now saving for an XL, this is the awesomest helmet ever. __________________ Come find yourself - GPS Discussion Forums Time is the ultimate currency. The Seamii are awesome.

05-12-2009, 08:22 AM	#24
SomeStrangeGuy maybe this was a bad idea. Join Date: 12-13-2006 Location: Debt, where else? Age: 2 Bike(s): GS RR Posts: 7,665 Images: 5	This isn't an FS thread, but 275$ for the above mentioned unit. + shipping to your locale. __________________ Come find yourself - GPS Discussion Forums Time is the ultimate currency. The Seamii are awesome.

05-19-2009, 08:34 AM	#26
ND4SPD Join Date: 12-12-2006 Location: MCADX World Headquarters Bike(s): '99 F4, '00 VFR Posts: 11,261 Images: 28	It's not an FS thread. __________________ "This is your life - are you who you want to be?" Learn all you need to know about Mac OS X The Motorcycle Addict's Magazine - MCADXmag

05-19-2009, 10:25 PM	#28
seamus Turning is for p***ies Join Date: 12-13-2006 Location: Rocket City Age: 35 Bike(s): 1KRR; VFR; FMX650 Posts: 8,077	How very green of you. __________________ Ducit Amor Patriae Richard Herald, The Gentle Giant For once you have tasted flight you will walk the earth with your eyes turned skywards, for there you have been and there you will long to return. ---Leonardo Da Vinci

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