Submitted by
Ricksom
a Cross Country Rider
from Toronto, Canada Date Reviewed: August 25, 2006
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Strengths:
Well priced. Good ventilation. Good looks. Good fit.
Weaknesses:
None really. May need to replace the front pad after 3 years.
Similar Products Used:
Giro
Bike Setup:
Titus RacerX
Bottom Line:
Damn good helmut at a fair price. Timeless. Forget about chasing the latest ego fashion from Giro.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kat
a Cross Country Rider
from Santa Barbara Date Reviewed: February 4, 2006
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
BigGear BikeGear
Strengths:
comfortable....good visor to keep sun off...rain too.
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
other bell helmets
Bike Setup:
Titus Ti racer X
Bottom Line:
This helmet saved my life. I was doing a technical uphill section and ended up doing a wheelie backwards into a creek and landed headfirst onto a razor sharp rock. The outside of the helmet was fine but when I got home and looked the inside was all cracked up. The helmet did it's job.....just bought another x-ray because I know it will perform under pressure.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
eric
a Racer
from fall city washington Date Reviewed: December 22, 2005
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
cool and cool in summer comfortable priced well
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
louis garneu(sucked)others
Bike Setup:
kona kula deluxe plus ritchey and fsa extras, kona road bike, kona pimped out stuff, and kona jake the snake(pimped)
Bottom Line:
for a xc helmet it is bombproof and for a smooth rider it lasts forever. I have road ridden, dhed, xc'ed, dirtjumped, and cyclo-crossed and it did all of those without a comlaint. I crash a ton when pushing the limits of my tires and riding ability and it has always been there for me. worth all the money
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
C
a Cross Country Rider
from Monerety,California Date Reviewed: November 27, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Fort Ord Goat Trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
Preformance Bicycle
Strengths:
An adjustable Visor,19 intake and outake vents,Fushion in-mold,and it looks cool.
Weaknesses:
You cry after it gets scratched.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Airwave but the Bell X-Ray is way better.
Bike Setup:
2006 Gary Fisher Tass Disc,Hayes So1e hydralic disc brakes,Manitou Axel Platinum Air 100,Deore shifters and front deraileur, LX M-570 rear deraileur,deore hubs,Bontrager select cranks,Bontrager Jones XR tires,Bontrager Ranger rims, 14 gram spokes,Bontrager Select saddle,Bontrager Sport crowbar,Bontrager Sport Stem,Bontrager Sport Seatpost, Truvativ ISIS Gigapipe, Shimano HG-73 chain,Sram PG-950 cassette,and Bontrager Dual Density grips.
Bottom Line:
It is a excellent helmet.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JT
a Weekend Warrior
from Northern CA Date Reviewed: November 13, 2005
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$99.00
Purchased At:
REI
Strengths:
Fit, ventilation, profile
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
various Giro, Bell
Bike Setup:
2006 Trek 4900
Bottom Line:
Tried a "universal fit" helmet trying to save a few bucks, but I'm a slightly larger size and this didn't cut it. Bell X-Ray has been worth the money. Best combination of comfort , fit, adjustability that I tried. Reasonably low-profile and doesn't give that "bubble-head" look.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Collin
a Cross Country Rider
from SC Date Reviewed: October 21, 2005
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$90.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Fit, ventilation, adjustment system.
Weaknesses:
Pads wear out really fast
Similar Products Used:
Trek Vapor
Bottom Line:
This is a great helmet, very cool with a very good fit. I just bought my 3rd one, I have crashed and cracked my helmet twice in the past year, but I didn't crack my skull. The helmet did its job. So far I have had to replace the pads in the 1st 2 helmets within 2 months of getting the helmet, this is my only complaint.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stephen
a Cross Country Rider
from maryville TN USA Date Reviewed: September 25, 2005
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
nasbar
Strengths:
decent vents
Weaknesses:
still goofy looking
Bottom Line:
Saved my life when a car hit-and-run at 60mph
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
rwl11
a Cross Country Rider
from PDX, OR USA Date Reviewed: September 8, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Falls Creek, WA
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
River City
Strengths:
Excellent Fit, great ventalation
Weaknesses:
Visor is TOO long!
Similar Products Used:
Giro E2, etc
Bike Setup:
Ellsworth ISIS, Race Face galore, hopes
Bottom Line:
After having to buy a new helmet after breaking an older Bell, this one fit great in the store. After riding with it for the first time in the Bend Big Fat Tour for 45 miles, www.bendbigfattour.com , I wondered why my neck was sore. Well, the visor is TOO long, which means I have to hold my head those few degrees higher to see down the trail, or if I hold it in a comfortable position, I can't see far enough and stuff just comes up too fast to react.
Bell has EXCELLENT customer service. When I bought my Silver helmet with a black visor, it wasn't more than 2 weeks when they came with a silver visor. I called Bell and asked if I could by the better looking silver visor. They said 'Sorry, we order 1 visor for every helmet. No extras!' I was astounded 6 months later, when I got a FREE silver visor in the mail, announced. I'll be buying a Bell from now on, the next being a Sweep XC. Fits awesome, shorter visor....I CAN SEE! without the neck problems. Supergo has the best price, $89.99
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Reid
a Weekend Warrior
from Scottsdale, AZ, USA Date Reviewed: August 14, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Schultz Creek in Flagstaff
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
Performance Bike
Strengths:
Looks good, excellent ventilation, superb fit, GPS retention system
Weaknesses:
A little expensive
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Enduro Comp
Bike Setup:
GT iDrive
Bottom Line:
I really couldn't be any happier with this helmet. I bought it yesterday because it was on sale half off. There wasn't anything wrong with my old helmet, a Specialized Enduro Comp, but I new as soon as I tried the X-Ray on in the bike shop that I had to have it. Between the outstanding fit, excellent ventilation and light weight, I forgot that I was wearing a helment during my ride today. There's simply no comparision between my old Specialized and the X-Ray. I had no idea a bike helment could be this good. Looks pretty good too (by bike helment standards anyway).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sandman
a Cross Country Rider
from Pompano, Fl Date Reviewed: August 3, 2005
I purchased this helmet out of nessesity. I broke mine loading my gear, had to get one quick and did not really take the time to do the research. In the shop it felt good and was lightweight, it came in a cool blue/grey/black so I got it. Much to my surprise it has been awesome! I love this thing and will not wear anything else. It fits my head perfect, is durable and looks great. I would recommend it highly! Take care of the liner pads though. Mine disentagrated (due to abuse no dought) but a replacement set were available from Bell no problem. Im givin this one a 5+5
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Luis Hernandez
a Cross Country Rider
from Guadalajara, Mexico Date Reviewed: June 8, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Next one to ride
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$99.00
Purchased At:
Jensonusa.com
Strengths:
Light, GPS retention system, no stretching straps
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Giro E2
Bike Setup:
Specialized Epic '03 with DT Swiss, Shimano, SRAM, Race Face, Thomson, Selle Italia, Tioga, Easton, Avid, Stan's...
Bottom Line:
Very nice fit. GPS retention system is very easy to use. I like two things better than Giro E2: lower profile and no stretching straps. Looks cool and keeps my head cool. Price is reasonable for what you get.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rik
a Weekend Warrior
from Netherlands Date Reviewed: April 13, 2005
Favorite Trail:
up and down terrain, fast downhills
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$75.00
Purchased At:
eBay Germany
Strengths:
Light, great fit, cooling and easily adjustable. Safe (by others' experience)
Weaknesses:
Visor just a bit too long, but I doesn't bother me much.
Similar Products Used:
Giro
Bike Setup:
Cust-tec with Shimano XT & LX mixture, Rigidas with Magura Julie discs, some Ritchey WCS.
Bottom Line:
My brother in law crashed into the back of a van the first day he wore his new X-Ray, went right through the rear shield, but was quite OK. Helmet cracked, but did its job. Now he has a new one.
I myself feel quite OK when I wear the X-Ray. Great ventilation and the GPS system rocks. Lighter than a Giro E2. Get one for a good price and you won't be disappointed.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lee
a Weekend Warrior
from AZ Date Reviewed: March 17, 2005
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$59.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Great fit (even my big dome)GPS is easy to use.
Weaknesses:
Visor a bit low. Hard to see sometimes when going down hill fast. So I took it off.
Bottom Line:
Great helmet. It really fits my large head well. Got it for a great price. The GPS works great. For the price what you get is great.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
S Junaid
a Cross Country Rider
from Clarksville, MD, USA Date Reviewed: August 26, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Patapsco
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
Excellent fit around the head. GPS positioning. Location of pads, Looks, light...
Weaknesses:
NONE
Similar Products Used:
Specialized
Bottom Line:
This helmet beat all I've ever used or tried on my head before. PERFECT. Even though I demoed it only, I bet you I'll have one within the month and will be loving it! When I say I've never had such a good fit ever before, I'm not kidding, I'm being dead serious. It fit better than all the Giros and Specializeds, all the Mets and other Bells. I have a slightly oblong head and this helmet fit like a true glove. I couldn't budge it except for the movement of the skin on my head, rock solid all around. Bell just set the standard for anatomy-friendly design with this awesome helmet. The only thing I find lacking (would find lacking) is the 'cheap' looking plastic components of the GPS system. My only fear is whether the same plastic components will withstand a hard fall and keep the helmet on my head when i do do an endo...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alan
a Cross Country Rider
from Colorado Springs Date Reviewed: August 17, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Templeton
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Light, well vented, fits great
Weaknesses:
none yet
Similar Products Used:
Bell nemesis
Bike Setup:
1) Titus Locomoto, z-1 2) Dekerf Team, Duke sl 3) Salsa ala carte, rigid fork
Bottom Line:
I usually could care less about a helmet, but this one rocks; compared to the nemesis it felt like there was nothing on my head. It also kept my noggin really cool. I've always liked the fit of Bell helmets better because they fit the shape and size of my nugget. The GPS thing is really great too, it kept the helmet from moving even in the rough stuff.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mark ehrenborg
a Cross Country Rider
from santa barbara Date Reviewed: August 9, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Great fit, well vented, easy to adjust, did I mention GREAT FIT?
Finally found a helmet that fit! Tried the influx but prefered the X-ray fit although a bit more costly it certainly not too much for a well fitting helmet.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
sean k
a Weekend Warrior
from nj, us Date Reviewed: April 5, 2004
Favorite Trail:
porcupine rim
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$70.00
Purchased At:
shop
Strengths:
AMAZING in all aspects. could bareley tell it was on my head most of the time, very very ventilated, and protected my head. Love the retention system, the helmet is also very quiet at speed
This helmet kicks A$$! got it last year, and it has been amazing. Was really nice in the oven of utah, and also here in NJ. The retention system is great... just twist the thingie! it fit my head so perfectly i could use it without any pads at all (took pads out for winter w/hat, but couldnt always put em bak in when i didnt have the hat on) and it felt fine. i dont have a lot of hair, either. I crashed a few days ago- went off a jump i always go off, but my back wheel kicked up and sent me into a speed-endo. my front wheel hit the ground and catapulted my face and head into the ground. my lip was busted, face was scratched, and i later got a headache, but i was able to get up and ride home. I looked at the Xray the next day and there was a nice crack in one of the main ribs. It did what it was supposed to do- crack instead of my head. i'm now running a giro xen, but i like the bell better. the X-ray is an amazing helmet, i wish i hadn't broken it!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bellulla bob
a Racer
from rhode island Date Reviewed: January 27, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Vietnam
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
nashbar
Strengths:
fairly cool; doesn't look too bad; price (when discounted and compared to similar Giro helmets); it protects your brains
Weaknesses:
retention system sucks: it broke fairly early and I have had to glue it several times. Pads are located not where my head contacts the helmet (that might be the fault of my head though!).
Similar Products Used:
I've always stuck with bell
Bike Setup:
Tracer
Bottom Line:
I do some night riding with a blowtorch attached to my helmet. The helmet is not meant to hold that kind of weight and it keeps on braking the retention system.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Asher
a
from Somerville, MA Date Reviewed: January 6, 2004
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$100.00
Strengths:
Fits well, tough, does the job, comfortable.
Weaknesses:
Straps loosen too easily, pricey lid, looks kind of like Darth Vader from behind.
Similar Products Used:
Cheaper Bells, Giros
Bottom Line:
This was a nice helmet, comfortable, etc. Only complaint is that the buckle on the chin strap didn't stay adjusted--kind of a pain in the ass for a $100 lid. Other than that, the GPS cam thingy works really well, and the thing sits on your head and stays there. Good thing, too: this thing saved my head the other night, when I wiped out on my fixie, hitting my head on a curb. No concussion, just a bruised temple.
I replaced it with a Bell Influx, though; not sure one more vent is worth another $30.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ellison Smith
a Cross Country Rider
from Greenville, SC Date Reviewed: January 3, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Isaqueena, Clemson, SC
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Nice and cool in the summer Sits deep on my head Holds a helmet mount-light well GPS fit system
Weaknesses:
Too nice and cool in the winter Sits too deep on my head
Similar Products Used:
Giro something or other
Bike Setup:
Trek Fuel - Fox TALAS RL, XT/X3.1 wheelset, Sram X.9 shifters and derailler, Avid Mech Disc brakes, Easton, Thomson, Selle Italia, blah blah blah...
Bottom Line:
Either a helmet works or it doesn't. This one does. I was riding a few days ago about 15 or 20 mph on a pathway covered in leaves, and a stick under the leaves somehow managed to knock my bike out from under me. I went down pretty hard, but luckily my head broke my fall. I got up, finished my ride, and when I got home, I discovered a large crack down the middle of the helmet. Kinda made me angry, but it did exactly what it was supposed to do. My head too the blunt of the fall, but I came away with only a couple of scratches on my chin and my knees.
The helmet fits a bit deep on my head, but I guess that gives more protection. The only thing wrong with the deep fit is that if the helmet is a little loose, it tends to roll over your eyes a bit. If you have it tight, this is not a problem, even with a helmet mounted light.
The vent system also works very well. Channels air in very well. If you're still getting hot, all you do is loosen the GPS fit, which is quite a handy feature on hot summer climbs. It is quite a comfortable helmet when adjusted right. You can hardly tell it is there.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Weekend Warrior
from Everett , WA. Date Reviewed: November 20, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Sean's
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
I love the GPS fit system. The design is real open to vent well. The visor is cool and doesn't cut out vision on the trail.
Weaknesses:
Some People complain that the gps system is weak and there isn't enough padding. They probably had the damn thing cranked down so tight that when they tilt their head the thing gets tight and snaps. Not poor craftsmanship, poor judgement on the user.
Similar Products Used:
Giro Animas, Specialized piece of @#$%
Bike Setup:
Cove Stiffee, DJ1, RaceFace crank/stem/bars, hayes, xt/lx, sun singletracks.
Bottom Line:
Great Helmet! Good Price!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jenn GonzaLEZ
a Weekend Warrior
from Ft.lauderdale Date Reviewed: September 10, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Dragons Tail(@Oleta)
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Wheeler Dealer
Strengths:
I love this helmet. Ive used a Giro Gila before and it wasnt as good as the X-ray. Its super light weight and fit my head better than the Giro. And the ventilation is far superior to the bell. The only other helmet tha i like as much is a Vigor XC helmet that i have.
Weaknesses:
The straps were annoying to set, and not enough pads inside. But its all good.
Similar Products Used:
Giro Gila, Vigor XC.
Bike Setup:
Iron Horse Desperado DS, Lx-XTR drivetrain, RaceFace Prodigy Cranks w/ Bashguard. Easton Scandium handlerbard and EA50 seatpost. Sun Rims, and Continental Tires. Soon to have a Haro Freeride bike.
Bottom Line:
This helmet ROCKS! Its really light and super ventilated. A lot better than Giro and it looks pretty damn cool too. Its a good helmet for the money and can rival those over exspensive Giro helmets. The only thing that i didnt like is that it didnt have enough paddig inside. Id reccomend this helmet for XC and light freeriders cause it wont protect u if u do a 15ft drop!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
GLENN SMILEY
a Weekend Warrior
from PHOENIX, AZ, USA Date Reviewed: June 27, 2003
Favorite Trail:
ANY OF THEM
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$85.00
Purchased At:
SUPERGO
Strengths:
VERY LIGHT, SUPER VENTILATED---AWESOME VENTILATION
Weaknesses:
BIT PRICEY, BUT HEY---ITS YOUR HEAD RIGHT !!!!
Similar Products Used:
OTHER BELL, SPECIALIZED HELMETS
Bike Setup:
JEKYLL, SUGAR
Bottom Line:
RIDING IN PHOENIX DURING HELL MONTHS (SUMMER), YOU NEED PLENTY OF VENTILATION TO KEEP YOUR MELON COOL. THE X-RAY HAS IT AND DOES THE JOB TO PERFECTION. I HAVE USED ABOUT 6 OTHER STYLES OF HELMETS AND THIS ONE DOES THE JOB PEOPLE!!! HUGE VENTS CHANNEL AIR ALL AROUND YOUR HEAD KEEPING YOUR TEMP DOWN WHILE THE OUTSIDE TEMP IS RISING AND RISING AND RISING....
THE HELMET IS VERY LIGHT AND YOU HARDLY KNOW ITS THERE. THE ADJUSTMENTS ARE SNUG AND EASY TO USE. YOU CAN BASICALLY CUSTOM FIT THE HELMET TO YOUR HEAD WITH A TWIST OF A DIAL IN THE REAR.
WHILE THE HELMET IS A BIT ON THE EXPENSIVE SIDE, WE ARE AFTER ALL TALKING ABOUT YOUR HEAD PROTECTION HERE. ITS WORTH THE MONEY AND AFTER RIDING WITH IT, I WOULD BUY IT AGAIN AND EVEN SPEND MORE TO GET IT---ITS THAT GOOD!!!!
BUY IT PEOPLE----YOU WILL BE GLAD YOU DID !!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Phil
a Weekend Warrior
from Manhattan Beach Date Reviewed: June 23, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
supergo
Strengths:
lightweight, comfortable, excellent fit, retention system
Weaknesses:
none
Bottom Line:
This helmet is awesome. It's very light and extremely comfortable. The ventilation is great, even on hot days. During a ride I don't even notice it's there. I tried the Giro E2 on in the store but this helmet fit my mellon way better, and I preferred the Bell's retention system better. I can't say how strong it is, but I hope I never really have to find out! A bit pricey, but overall an excellent product. Buy it!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew Wong
a Downhiller
from kk, sbh, malaysia Date Reviewed: June 13, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Kg. Lomunu
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$108.00
Purchased At:
Art flyers bicycle center
Strengths:
-good weight -very cooling -good fit -supereasy to tighten and loosen
Weaknesses:
-visor gets in the way and gets most of your vision -looks like crap when u wear it(depends on ur face shape) -tree branches can get into the spacers of the helmet...when riding a forest trail. -the sponges tend to come out after awhile
Similar Products Used:
-giro gila
Bike Setup:
gary fisher, fox vanila, xt set, mavic 551
Bottom Line:
the helmet is a cool one if u dont care about looks. After a long ride, this helmet keeps ur head in good temperature. buy it if you intend to spend your money for a top helmet.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Relayden
a Cross Country Rider
from PR Date Reviewed: May 7, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$52.00
Purchased At:
nashbar.com
Strengths:
Can't find better helmet for price. Good pad's. Excellent fit and retention system.
Saved my life. Hit a cow sized rock at around 12 miles saved my melon from destruction,not my face and neck but it did it's job, it cracked and the mold is bent but it's still holding up, hell it is strong. The best fitting helmet, good pads that don't fall off. Excellent ventilation compared with the giro's. Got a nice deal at nashbar.com almost half the price. They could have better colors. The retention system is the best I have tried so far, just a turn of the wheel and go. Will buy again. Should not buy if you're a hard core freerider or downhiller
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
sunkman
a Racer
from Small state of Rhode Island Date Reviewed: April 28, 2003
Favorite Trail:
anything tight and fast
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
lbs
Strengths:
Great fit, light, cool (temp. wise), easy adjustment
Weaknesses:
limited colors, could use a little more padding up front!
Bottom Line:
I like that bell makes great top level helmets but does not ask you to empty your bank account for them (unlike Giro!). The X-ray is very comfy, fits great, and is fairly light. Why pay $180 when you can get the same for less than $90?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
RLX88 Lo
a Cross Country Rider
from Suisun City, CA. USA Date Reviewed: March 23, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Rockgarden
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$55.00
Purchased At:
Bell Crash replacement
Strengths:
Fit Cool vents Nice colors combination
Weaknesses:
GPS system retension on top of helmet easy to come off. Already lost the piece and Bell wants me to send the whole helmet back. Won't just send me the small piece shaped like an arrow head. In the middle of the helmet is styro foam, which dented easily.
Similar Products Used:
Giro Bell Nemesis
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Superlite,Full XTR,Raceface cranks,Marozocchi Atom 80, ChrisKing headset and hubs, Monkeylite, Thomson Stem & seatpost, WTB Ti98 saddle, Panracer FireXC pro, Mavic 517 rims,
Bottom Line:
Customer service "SUCKS". I explained to her that I will be racing the Sea Otter and need just the small part. She would not send me the small part but ask me to return the whole helmet. I told her I was training and racing the Sea Otter and do not have another to wear. She told me maybe a local dealer would help me and could not just send me the part but instead to send the helmet back. I will have a few words to say at the Bell support at the races. In the future I will not use a BELL helmet. The only reason why I got the X-ray is due to a helmet replacement from my Nemesis, which is I liked better but is no longer made. 1 Chili due to poor customer service.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Misha
a Weekend Warrior
from Malaysia Date Reviewed: March 10, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Lightweight, cooling, very comfortable, easy to adjust even when riding.
Weaknesses:
mmmmm...didnt have matching color with my bike no big deal tho.
Similar Products Used:
first
Bottom Line:
Dont have much to say as this is my first helmet, but I like it very much. If given the chance yes I would buy them again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Marie
a Cross Country Rider
from Westfield, Ma USA Date Reviewed: December 19, 2002
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$70.00
Purchased At:
Performance Bike
Strengths:
Lightweight, Easy to adjust. Fits well with a fleece cap underneath. Lots of ventilation.
Weaknesses:
None that I've found so far. My old Specialized had about 8 vents and was heavy so any new helmet would have been an improvement.
Similar Products Used:
Specialzed, Giro
Bike Setup:
K2 Razorback Magura Disc brakes
Bottom Line:
Very Pleased
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Leonard
a Cross Country Rider
from Seattle Date Reviewed: October 19, 2002
I have owned the '02 Bell X-Ray Pro for over 3 months now and have used it approximately 2 times a week. Hands down, this is the best helmet I've tried. The GPS retention system is awesome and is what really sold me on this product. You can micro-adjust this helmet to fit your head perfectly. Also, I appreciate being able to instantly tighten the helmet with only one hand when the trail becomes technical or unstable. My head is apparently on the wider side and Bell helmets seem to accomodate this. Massive air vents keep you cool under all conditions. This helmet is lightweight and this is noticable compared to the weight of lower-end helmets. To be honest, I intially didn't want to spend over $40 for a helmet as I thought "a helmet is a helmet". I was wrong and If this one fails, I will go and get another one immediately. Plus, it looks good. :)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris McLaughlin
a Weekend Warrior
from Rancho Santa Margarita Date Reviewed: October 18, 2002
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$79.00
Purchased At:
Rock n' Road Cyclery
Strengths:
- Good ventilation - Bell reputation for safety - Good fit through GPS retention system - Lightweight - Accident replacement policy - Well priced compared to high-end competition
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Older Bell models
Bike Setup:
Does it matter?
Bottom Line:
The Bell with its GPS retention system fits my head well. Like many of the other reviewers, I have a larger head, so this makes sense. I really like being able to tighten up the retention system and have the helmet sit up a bit off my head allowing the air to circulate through.
I have never previously "invested" in a higher-end helmet. I thought the more expensive ones were better looking, but not worth the extra $$$. When I had thoroughly abused my old Bell, I finally broke down and spent the extra coin on the xray. I can't tell you what a difference the extra vents and lighter weight make. I am significantly cooler on my rides and you can literally feel the air moving through the helmet to cool your head.
Get one, it's worth it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joel
a Cross Country Rider
from Lancaster, CA, USA Date Reviewed: October 8, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Cannell Plunge
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Excellent fit, cooling vents actually work. I got mine on sale, so the price was a good point for me.
Weaknesses:
none so far
Similar Products Used:
Several Bell products throughout the years, and one specialized banshee...
Best helmet I've owned so far. The strap system on this helmet works very well. The vents do their job, as this is the coolest (literally) helmet I've ever worn. I haven't actually crashed very hard with it yet, so I really can't tell you how good of a helmet it really is...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
frank
a Cross Country Rider
from beijing China Date Reviewed: October 5, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$70.00
Strengths:
looks cool, light,design is cool mine is blue and i think it's beauty fitting system is good
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
giro e-2
Bike Setup:
haro's hardtail frame and lx xt group
Bottom Line:
it's a good helmet for mountain biking,
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jin Man
a Weekend Warrior
from Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico Date Reviewed: October 1, 2002
Favorite Trail:
All Mexico
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle Buys
Strengths:
Cool design!!! Cool colors (Blue Cammo)!!! It's light!!! And it has great fitting system that I love how it gets on my head.
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
Trek, Giro and others non-important to mention.
Bike Setup:
A great adn tough hartail full xt jacket.
Bottom Line:
I was looking for a really great helmet and I found it in it. The only problem was that I had to buy it online, in Mexico is difficult to find stuffs that one really likes.
How ever, this helmet is great, it really feels as racer, and of course, every body asks me where I bought it. He he he, it cost more than I wanted, but, it worst to for, I really love this helmet.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob
a Racer
from Hollister, CA Date Reviewed: September 8, 2002
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
1st place swag at XC race.
Strengths:
Great fit, looks, light, cool.
Weaknesses:
None yet
Similar Products Used:
Bell Image, Specialized
Bike Setup:
Typical sport class hardtail
Bottom Line:
This helmet rocks. It looks so cool, has great graphics. The fit is perfect.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dinesh Rajan
a
from Selangor, Malaysia Date Reviewed: August 4, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Urban, Trails, Dirt Jumping
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$86.00
Purchased At:
Bike Shop
Strengths:
Light weight. Super-cool looks and top end design. ventilation compartments are great.
Weaknesses:
A little too much for a MTB helmet. (A full-face cost about the same) Could have been build slightly less bulky.
Bottom Line:
Overall it is a fantastic helmet.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
TopJimmy
a Weekend Warrior
from Boston Date Reviewed: August 4, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$88.00
Purchased At:
Backbaybikes
Strengths:
Well Constructed. Great fit, GPS is awesome Looks good.
Weaknesses:
The front pad absorbs perspiration very quickly and becomes hot on the forehead.
Similar Products Used:
Giro, Lemond
Bike Setup:
Std. High end MTB bike
Bottom Line:
Comparing to the Giro higher-end helmets, if you can get this at a good price, buy it, it fits very nicely. It has a nice looks and feel. The GPS system is great.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bjorndoggie Cruiser
a Weekend Warrior
from Sacramento CA, USofA Date Reviewed: July 2, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Forresthill Divide Loop
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$90.00
Purchased At:
American River Bicycles
Strengths:
Fit is OK, retention system is great, looks are awesome! Oh yea, light weight, good price, blah, blah.
Weaknesses:
I honestly can't think of one. I know that some brands of helmets fit people differently, kinda like seats. It's a personal thing.
Similar Products Used:
I've tried on several kinds... always go back to Bell. I had an old blue metalflake motorcycle helmet that I played with when I was a kid, boy I had fun with that. Anyway it had a big Bell sticker on it and I've had a soft spot for Bell helmets ever since.
Bike Setup:
2001 Stumpy FSRxc Pro: Monkeylite, Thomson stem/seat post, SID, Fox Float RC, Mavic 517, XTR hubs, XTR/XT drivetrain, Panaracer Trailblasters, Race Face Good n' Evil grips, Planet Bike Protege' 9.0 computer, Time pedals. (cool bike!)
Bottom Line:
Wow what a great helmet! It fits well, stays in place during the rough stuff and best of all... it makes me look Marvelous! I have the red, silver and black one. I wear it out to dinner, to the movies, I'm getting compliments all the time. My wife says I'm a stud again! Seriously, buy one you won't regret it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
R Dixon
a Cross Country Rider
from Saskatoon, SK. Canada Date Reviewed: June 21, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
The Bike Doctor - Canada
Strengths:
Comfort & Fit. The flow of air through the vents. Single handed adjustment. It looks wicked. Price (if you buy it a year old). Its made by Bell. They do make quality helmets. View testimonial below.
Weaknesses:
None so far.
Similar Products Used:
Bell Axo Pro (Previous Helmet) Giro E2
Bike Setup:
Cannondale F2000
Bottom Line:
This helmet is everything a helmet should be, SAFE, comfortable & stylish. I can't say enough good things about my previous bell helmet. It saved my head if not my life in a recent bike vs. auto accident. The helmet was destroyed but my head was safe. When buying a helmet make it fits right and spend the extra bucks and buy a quality helmet. Bell makes great helmets, I would reccomend this helmet to anyone at any age.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben Thompson
a Cross Country Rider
from Lincoln, MA USA Date Reviewed: June 13, 2002
Favorite Trail:
iron horse trail
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
Belmont Wheelworks
Strengths:
Very airy, wind passes right through. GPS retention system has it's high points, very light, not to big on head.
Weaknesses:
GPS is not great for everyone, especially if you don't have a really round head. The rentention system's attachment into the styrofoam is not attached very well, it popped righ out, that's not good at all. GPS is not great overall.
Similar Products Used:
Giro Havoc
Bike Setup:
GT hardtail, LX w/ Manitou X-Vert.
Bottom Line:
Good helmet for the price IF you like the GPS retention system. It has it's problems but you may like it. Get it if you've tried it on and like it, dont order it online or out of a catalog.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan
a Downhiller
from san diego Date Reviewed: June 9, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
MHB team helmet
Strengths:
Great color PINK !!!!! great feel, low profile design, air vents, plenty of them, padding system is just right, adjustmenst in the back are excelent.
Weaknesses:
every person thinks a pink helmet is for girls only. well you all are insecure and boring, me, i don't know, i'm straight as an arrow
Similar Products Used:
giro pnuemo,(saved my life!! i'm serious), E2
Bike Setup:
2002 Specialized Bighit Comp, Marzocchi Super t., profiles, sun double wides, 3.0" IRC Kujo DH tires, graet, Hayes 8"Hydros, king headset, the usual
Bottom Line:
Pink rocks, i love the feel to this helmet, bell is a great company, excellent customer service, all you huys out there, pink gets the ladies, i swear!!! i have gotten so many compliments from ladies on my PINK x ray. im a guy 5 staight chilies all the way around!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mountain Yodel
a Cross Country Rider
from Vienna, Austria Date Reviewed: May 31, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Hervis Sports
Strengths:
Fits like a glove after one dials in the correct adjustments. Adjusts quite easily for a perfect fit. Company has wisely moved in the direction of a more rounded back to get rid of those "snag" potential problems in a crash (compared to a precursor model such as the older Rubicon).
Weaknesses:
After spending this much, I hope I don't crash again anytime soon.
Mine did not come with any extra foam pads in the box.
Similar Products Used:
Giro's sport model Mojave for the trail and I have been wearing the same old Trek helmet since 1993 for my street commute riding to work.
Bike Setup:
Trail: 2002 Trek 8000 Street Commute: 1989 Trek 820 with Thudbuster and IRC Metros
Bottom Line:
Bottom line is I had a recent crash and my head did hit the ground wearing the Mojave. It didn't feel like it hit that hard, but based on the premise that these things are built for one hit and one hit only.....I had an excuse to go shopping. The Mojave will be sent in for the crash replacement cost from Giro, but turn around time left me in need of a helmet. The Mojave will now become my new commuting helmet since it is time to retire my ten year old Trek helmet.
Usual routine: Visit several bike shops and sporting goods stores to see who has what brands and what sizes in stock that will fit. I take an L or an XL, so I usually have to visit a few places to find more than one or two models that I like. It came down to a couple of nice helmets from Giro, one from a Belgian company called Laser (or maybe it was Lazer) a bright yellow Bell Rubicon model (with a manufacture date of 99), another Mojave or this fine looking X-Ray. I had them all on and off numerous times in numerous colors and fiddled with the adjustments on all of them to dial in the best fit. I think Bell is known for fitting larger hat sizes, so it is no surprise that Bell and its subsidiary Giro provided the best fitting helmets for my specific head size.
The X-Ray and the older Rubicon won the fit test hands down (as well as good looks). However, the Rubicon lost out to the X-Ray because the X-Ray had a new manufacture date of 2/02 and didn't have the "snag" potential problems on the back of the helmet like the Bell Rubicon which had an older 9/99 manufacture date. Out with the old, in with the new X-Ray...
I managed to snag a sale with the X-Ray being marked down from 159 Euros to 114 Euros. That's a good value rating for me since that included the 20% VAT. The ease of adjustment and being able to fit it perfectly to my head boosts the overall rating, as does the color, comfort and familiar name of Bell.
--M.Y.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rock
a Weekend Warrior
from Ventura, CA Date Reviewed: May 19, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Chesbro
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Supergo Santa Monica
Strengths:
Fit, Style, Adjustability
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Giro Mojave
Bike Setup:
Giant Raineer SE Hardtail with mods
Bottom Line:
Wow! I've been avoiding spending more than $50 on a helmet, but I couldn't resist after trying this baby on. It not only looks great (my friends don't call me "mushroom-head" anymore), but the venting is incredible and the fit is unbelievable. On a two hour ride yesterday, I didn't have to remove the helmet a single time....my head stayed cool the entire ride. I don't have to worry about the helmet sliding down into my vision, either! A perfect five big red hot ones!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ted Myers
a Cross Country Rider
from Los Altos, CA Date Reviewed: April 29, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Any trail in Sedona
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Great fit. Light weight. Comfortable.
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
Giro.
Bike Setup:
2000 FSR-XC with lots of mods.
Bottom Line:
I thought my old Giro was OK until I put on the Xray. It is so comfortable. I never bother to take it off when I stop to rest. I tried the Giro E2 and found it to be very uncomfortable. I guess I have a "Bell" shaped head.
I tested out its crash protection last week. Resulted in a concussion, separated shoulder, and 5 broken ribs. I was upset that the helmet would allow a concussion and not show any visible damage but then found that the styrofoam inside was broken while the shell remained intact. This is exactly what you want.
I am now testing the $35 crash replacement program. (It should be free in the first couple of months. Oh well.) I hope the replacement is quick so I can get back to riding.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Weekend Warrior
from Macungie, PA Date Reviewed: April 25, 2002
Favorite Trail:
deer path
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$79.00
Purchased At:
pricepoint
Strengths:
fits like it custom made for your head. Lots of ventilation. Light
Weaknesses:
none so far
Similar Products Used:
Nemesis 2, giro havoc, forza 2, giro torrero
Bike Setup:
Fisher Sugar 4 stock
Bottom Line:
Tgis helmet is by far the best one that bell has produced. It looks better than my old nemesis 2 and keeps my noggin cool. The retention system is amazing. You get a high end helmet from Bell and still have some money to eat afterwards
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Moabrider
a Cross Country Rider
from USA Date Reviewed: April 22, 2002
Silver/Red Shwinn Moab 3, lots of upgrades, pre buy-out by Pacific
Bottom Line:
Everything about this helmet is awesome. I've never had a helmet fit like this. It fits PERFECT. Try one of these thats the right size once and you WON'T wear another helmet, ever. I have owned several Giros over the years and had been pretty happy with them. I thought I was taking a risk by getting a Bell but its obvious I wasn't. BOTTOM LINE: Get one!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Taylor
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: April 17, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Don Valley
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$101.00
Purchased At:
Cyclepath (Danforth)
Strengths:
Great fit/retention system, very light, TONS of vents
Weaknesses:
Visor is a little weak, limited range of colours
Similar Products Used:
Bell Rubicon Pro
Bike Setup:
2000 Trek STP 400, stock
Bottom Line:
I had a Bell Rubicon Pro for the past two years, and the pads were slowly going to hell in a handbasket, so I bought the X-Ray Pro as a replacement. There is a HUGE difference in fit between the two. The X-Ray Pro has a superb retention system and it fits like the proverbial glove. It is also vented out the wazoo, so you will never overheat in this sucker. The pads are more robust than the flimsy ones on the Rubicon Pro, so after a nice long 4hr ride there's no "helmet imprint" on your head. Overall it's a little pricey, but I'm very glad I bought it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Keefe Ward
a Cross Country Rider
from Dover, NJ 07801 Date Reviewed: April 17, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Mahlon D
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$79.00
Purchased At:
Belmont cycles (Boston)
Strengths:
Fit. Cool adjuster wheel, one hand does it all.
Weaknesses:
Wish pads would soak up some more sweat.
Similar Products Used:
Bell and Bell
Bike Setup:
Titus
Bottom Line:
Fit the best of 5 different brands. Visor is weak, but they all are. Bell has been around forever and replace policy is pretty good.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex
a Cross Country Rider
from Chula Vista, CA Date Reviewed: April 15, 2002
Favorite Trail:
anywhere outside the house
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
MIssion Cyclery
Strengths:
Fit,Fit,Fit, did I mention Fit. The price is great compared to some other brands.
Weaknesses:
Not enough time for any to show up yet.
Similar Products Used:
Giro
Bottom Line:
It was time to retire my Giro supermoto helmet. So I tried the usual Giro's and Specialized helmets. By chance I picked up a Bell and the fit was perfect. The ratcheting GPS works great to secure the helmet to your head. I can't say enough about the fit of these helmets. I was so happy with the X-Ray I bought an Influx helmet for my daughter. It also uses the GPS for a secure fit. Any body in the market for a helmet should check out these (2) models the Bell X-ray or Influx, great fit and retaining system and priced to be very competitive
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tex
a Cross Country Rider
from Austin, TX, USA Date Reviewed: March 21, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Walnut Creek
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
JensonUSA.com
Strengths:
Light weight, good ventilation, best retention system around, reasonable price, and looks damn good on my noggin'.
Weaknesses:
They don't offer it in Klein Carribean Reef green
Similar Products Used:
Giro E2
Bike Setup:
Klein Adept Race - stock
Bottom Line:
Bought the E2 initially and never could get it to fit quite right, not to mention it looked like a huge dead armadillo sittin on top of my head. Sold the E2 and bought the X-Ray after reading reviews and am very pleased that I did. It fits like a glove, is super easy to adjust on the fly, and I don't have to worry about riding under low clearance bridges with the thing. You can't go wrong with this helmet and you can put the extra $50 or more that you save towards something nice for your wife so she doesn't leave you for spending so much on bicycle crap.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill Williams
a Cross Country Rider
from Anderson, SC Date Reviewed: March 1, 2002
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$89.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Great fit & excellent retention system. PRICE.
Weaknesses:
Needs more variety of colors
Similar Products Used:
Giro E2, Trek
Bike Setup:
SantaCruz Superlite. 22lbs...enough said.
Bottom Line:
This is best fitting helmet I have ever put on my noggin'. The Giro E2 was a good helmet as it protect my head when I crashed and cracked it. However I just wasn't willing to shell out another $150 for a helmet, so I looked elsewhere. That's when I decided to try the Bell X-Ray. I am really impressed with the vent and retention system. It keeps my head cool and stays snug throughout the ride without the pressure point some other helmets have. XXXX TRY IT AND YOU WILL LIKE IT. XXXXX
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Cory
a
from St. Louis, MO Date Reviewed: February 26, 2002
Favorite Trail:
the new ones
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
The Touring Cyclist
Strengths:
Light, Best Fit Ever! cool, lots of ventilation, Best Fit EVER!!
Weaknesses:
Colors last year were not so hot, but it looks like the '02s are pretty sweet.
Similar Products Used:
Giro E2, Specialized King Cobra, Bell Paradox, Bell Image, Bell Full Face
Bike Setup:
um, an 02 Kona Chute, a Kona Kaboom singlespeed, and a Trek Fuel 98
Bottom Line:
I bought a Giro E2 on clearance, and ended up giving it to my fiance. It just never fit right. The King Cobra gave me headaches. This X-Ray cost less than either one of those two, fits better than either of those ever did, and is every bit as ventilated. I can easily say i've never owned as nice a helmet before.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Flyer
a Cross Country Rider
from Chicago Date Reviewed: February 1, 2002
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$65.00
Strengths:
Fit is awesome, the rapid adjustment makes it so easy and comfortable.
Weaknesses:
None that I have noticed
Similar Products Used:
Other Bells
Bike Setup:
Giant se2 Hardtail and NRS AIR FS bikes
Bottom Line:
The rapid fit system is what got me to buy this helmet. It is light-weight, and I hardly notice I have it on when riding. Definately enough vents to make it cool enough to wear. So easy to use...put on, spin the wheel to snug it to your head...and that's it! Recommend it highly! I think it is every bit as good as the Giro, and about half the price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lori
a Cross Country Rider
from Illinois Date Reviewed: January 11, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$85.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Easily adjustable for a perfect fit. Light and cool.
Weaknesses:
None - so far. Hope the plastic of the adjustable retention doesn't break. It looks like it could be fragile. On the expensive side.
Similar Products Used:
Trek, Giro
Bike Setup:
C-Dale F2000SX
Bottom Line:
Great fit! Light and cool. So easily adjusted that you won't think twice about it. If you need to wear a bandana to keep the sweat out of your eyes (hint, hint) or a winter headband to keep your ears warm you won't spend forever trying to get the helmet comfortable. On my old helmet - if I got it tight enough to keep the helmet from wobbling on my head, then when I would try to get it on over a headband the velcro eventually wouldn't hold up to the pressure anymore and it would come loose. On this helmet you loosen the retention system, put the helmet on over your headgear and with one turn of the dial you're in business with a custom fit. What more is there?
I can justify the price because I will get many, many miles of use from it and it is the most comfortable fitting helmet I've ever had on. If it makes it through two seasons then the price will be worth it. My other helmets have only lasted one season before the cheap velcro retention systems quit holding on.
Definitely a 5 flamer!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kristian
a Weekend Warrior
from Helsinki, Finland, Europe Date Reviewed: December 9, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$115.00
Purchased At:
Urheiluaitta
Strengths:
Ventilated, Fitting mechanism, looks, Good protection at the back of the head.
Weaknesses:
A bit expensive.
Similar Products Used:
MET, Giro
Bike Setup:
Planet-X Jack Flash RAD
Bottom Line:
I tried several different helmets from all the major manufacturers and founf this to be the best. I fits my head like a glove. The helmet protects the back of my head better than the competitive products.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
GGS
a Cross Country Rider
from Chicago IL Date Reviewed: October 22, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Village Cycle
Strengths:
Light, adjustment system is "all that"
Weaknesses:
None I can find
Similar Products Used:
Bell Paradox
Bike Setup:
Giant XTC SE2
Bottom Line:
I tried this on in the shop and noticed a difference in fit, and being impulsive bought it. I was using a Bell Paradox, and while its a great helmet, I could tell I was wearing it. The X-Ray I don't even notice I have on. The adjustment system is awesome, super fit is a snap. Yeah...it was more that twice the price of the paradox, but it was worth every penny. I am not worried about the crash worthiness....I have taken some shots with a Bell on and they always held up just fine. If you want cheap protection look at another Bell, if you want comfort and protection....look no further than the X-Ray.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
J.P.
a Cross Country Rider
from Northridge, CA Date Reviewed: October 16, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Price Paid:
$41.00
Purchased At:
Pro Deal
Strengths:
Fits to any head shape and size.
Weaknesses:
Had a couple stupid reviews against it.
Similar Products Used:
Other Bell and Giro Models
Bike Setup:
Trek Fuel 90 Disc
Bottom Line:
OK, this is probably the best helmet I've ever used. I work at a bike shop and naturally I have a large assortment of products to choose from all at Pro-Deal Prices (40%-60% off). I could have gone with the Giro E2 which is a great helmet that is possibly the industry standard, but I have to go with the X-Ray because of it's styling, perfect fit, and quality construction. As far as the other reviews go, the "sweating problem" isn't a problem with the helmet... the problem is the sweaty pig that's wearing it. It's ridiculous to assume that porus materials, like oh... padding for example, would be designed to not soak up sweat. Everything soaks up sweat! C'mon people, you should have been using helmets sooner in your biking career! That way all those head shots you took from spills wouldn't have messed up your judgement about a good product like the Bell X-Ray. Thank you.
5 Chilis for the great product... 1 Chili to the brain-deads that make up problems.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
C. Bell (no relation)
a Cross Country Rider
from Manhattan Beach, CA USA Date Reviewed: September 26, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Depends on mood
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$79.00
Purchased At:
Circle Cycle
Strengths:
Quality of construction Fit Vents Galore Functional, removable visor
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Giro E2 Bell Image 2000
Bike Setup:
Intense Tracer with Hayes Hydros and assorted Shimano bits.
Bottom Line:
I've found helmet nirvana and this is it. MUCH better fitting than the flimsy E2. The retention system is superior and allows you to wear a headband or bandana without snagging or feeling too tight. Huge vents and light weight make this the BOMB! Do your melon right and pick one up.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Darren
a Cross Country Rider
from Northridge Date Reviewed: September 17, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$70.00
Purchased At:
Wheel World
Strengths:
Very light and tons of air holes. Great fit and look. My head stays way cool in the Los Angeles heat.
Weaknesses:
Knob at back of helmet sometimes loosens.
Bike Setup:
Gary Fisher Sugar 3
Bottom Line:
Would recommend this helmet in a heartbeat. It's like it's not even there during a ride. Search the net or qbike.com to find the best deal on this great helmet!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Caffiend
a Cross Country Rider
from Austin, TX Date Reviewed: August 25, 2001
Favorite Trail:
700 Acres
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
REI
Strengths:
GREAT fit, lightweight, ventilation
Weaknesses:
fixed position on visor
Similar Products Used:
Bell Image Pro, tried a couple of Treks and Giros
Bike Setup:
'01 Fuel 98, Time ATAC clipless
Bottom Line:
This is the first helmet that gives me a great fit. Most other helmets don't fit my head right. The secret to the X-Ray Pro is the GPS system. There's a band that runs around the back half of the helmet and when you twist the gear in the back it cinches down around the sides and rear. It makes for a extremely comfortable, snug fit. Basically it shapes to YOUR melon. It also has a well-ventilated design. Keeps my head cool even in this Texas in August heat. The only thing I thought it might be short on is the fixed position visor. My old Bell Image Pro could be adjusted ~15 degrees. I'm not missing that feature as much as I thought I would so I'd be hard pressed to take off any points on a such a phenomenal cap. It can be had for a lot cheaper, PricePoint has them for $75. I just wanted to test fit it first and the REI guy was really helpful. Stock seems to be low on them as well.
As far as the sweat "issue", that's gonna happen with any helmet. I recently shaved my head, so I've got no hair to help in the sweat control. I'd suggest a skullcap or headband to soak it up, taking the front pad out will make the helmet rub your forehead raw...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
psychohill
a Weekend Warrior
from Oxnard, CA Date Reviewed: August 24, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Bike Gear/Santa Barbara
Strengths:
well.. GPS head adjust kicks ass.. feels nice on my head..
Weaknesses:
the front pad absorbs a heck of a lot of sweat, and you lean over and it dribbles down the helmet or into your eyes, moreso than the other helmets i've worn
good helmet.. wonder if there's a way around the sweat thing.. going to try removing the pad and placing some other ones.. 3 chilis only because of the sweat prob..
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Henry
a Cross Country Rider
from Toronto, Ontario Date Reviewed: August 16, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Seaton or The Rouge
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$99.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
-Really light. -Looks great. -GPS is amazing!
Weaknesses:
Can't think of any.
Similar Products Used:
Bell Tsunami Pro Bell Evo 2 Pro
Bottom Line:
Great helmet, cheaper than other higher end Giro's but preforms just as well, if not better. GPS is really easy to use. 5 flamin' chillies!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mike
a Cross Country Rider
from simi valley, ca Date Reviewed: August 7, 2001
Favorite Trail:
rocky peak
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
pricepoint
Strengths:
GPS system, comfort, looks
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
giro
Bottom Line:
Excellent helmet, GPS dial in rear is awesome, can get the perfect fit in a matter of seconds, super comfortable, really snug so no sloppy areas, great looks.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve R
a Weekend Warrior
from New York Date Reviewed: August 6, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$99.00
Strengths:
Perfect fit.
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
other bell helmets
Bike Setup:
Specialized stump jumper fsrxc
Bottom Line:
Just got this Helmet. I wasn't even looking really. Just tried it on in the store. I bought it the next day. It is so comfortable and form fitting. The little thumb wheel in the back is amazing. go get it. Id give it full chilli's but the price is just a little steep, not much though.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jay
a Cross Country Rider
from Allentown, PA, USA Date Reviewed: August 3, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$78.00
Purchased At:
Performance Bike
Strengths:
Great fit.. lightweight... easy to adjust
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
Giro Mojave
Bike Setup:
Cannondale F500
Bottom Line:
This helmet is worth the money. The GPS system makes the fit very snug and comfortable. The helmet is very light and allows for a lot of air flow.
Excellent helmet.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Big O
a Cross Country Rider
from Pacific Grove, CA Date Reviewed: July 11, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Mt. Galbraith
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$79.00
Purchased At:
JensonUSA
Strengths:
Great fit, lack of weight, breezy, outstanding adjustability
Weaknesses:
None I have yet found.
Similar Products Used:
Previous models of Bell Helmets--name escapes me
Bottom Line:
I love the fit and adjustability of this helmet. Noticeable air flow improvement over my older helmets (which were good, but not as good as this one).
Yes a little more than other helmets... but it fits well and is comfortable. These should be your guidelines when buying a helmet anyways.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ray
a Weekend Warrior
from Miami, FL., USA Date Reviewed: July 11, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Oleta River State Prk, Markham Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$99.00
Purchased At:
Mack Cycles
Strengths:
BIG vents, easy to adjust, light.
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
Giro E2
Bike Setup:
TREK 7000 W/some upgrades.
Bottom Line:
The summer heat and humidity in South Florida can get down right brutal. Border line (cheap)helmets will fail without mercy on your head. This Helmet is the real deal. The Giro E2 works just as well in keeping you head cool but is too costly ($150.00)and it does not have the ease of adjustment that the X-Ray has. For the $100.00 price tag, it is not the cheapest but it is the closes you will get to perfection in fit and keeping you brain from frying.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Parker
a Racer
from Madison, AL USA Date Reviewed: July 9, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Oak Mountain
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$79.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Lightweight, looks cool, mega air flow, GPS gives incredible custom fit
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Bell Image Pro
Bike Setup:
Ellsworth Truth
Bottom Line:
This helmet is the sweetest helemet I've ever put on my head. At first I ordered the Giro E2 and Exodus and was very disappointed. The S/M was so big that it looked like a watermelon on my head and the XXS/S would barely even fit on my head. The X-Ray Pro fit beautifully and the GPS retention system gave an incredible custom fit. The air flow is much much better than the Image Pro and it also channels the sweat better so it isn't constantly dripping on my riding glasses. Bell is the choice for me and the X-Ray Pro gets 5 chilis.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin
a Cross Country Rider
from Sarasota, FL Date Reviewed: June 28, 2001
Favorite Trail:
The TOE
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$99.00
Strengths:
Extremely good fit, Light, Excellent airflow and venting
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Pirhana, Giro Hammerhead
Bike Setup:
2001 K2 Razorback Team
Bottom Line:
Every helmet that I have owned prior to the x-ray has been very hot, hard to adjust and did not hold adjustments very well. The x-ray can be loosened or tightened on the fly with a small thumbwheel that works very well. The visor is high enough that you can still see what is going on overhead (low tree branches and other helmet bashers). A little pricey, but I feel it is a lot more for the money than the similar Giro E2 at $150.00 retail.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Weekend Warrior
from Calgary, Alberta Date Reviewed: June 20, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Benchlands
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$100.00
Strengths:
Light, lots of vents, easy to adjust
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
A whole bunch of helmets
Bike Setup:
2001 Specialized Enduro Pro and an old rigid commuter:)
Bottom Line:
This helmet fits great. It has a thumb dial to adjust to your headsize which snugs it up fast. I find that they fit well for people with tall heads, my head is pretty tall and it seems to be a deep helmet. It looks good without the visor too, don't know if I will take it off though.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
What's New
»
BEST OF MTBR - Check out the highest rated bikes, parts, & gear!
»
LED BIKE LIGHT SHOOTOUT 3 - We test all the newest products and latest light and battery technology in this comprehensive guide»
$ 99.99
Overall Rating:
Overall Rating:
Overall Rating:
