Bell Helmet FAQ

Where do I find the Snell, FIA or SFI rating on my helmet?
The homologation label is located on the inner liner of the helmet in the back, under the fit pad. To confirm the rating, lift the fit pad to locate the label. Please note removing the label will void the homologation.

Why do I feel forehead pressure when I try on the helmet for the first time?
Make sure to check under the fit pad and remove any desiccant (moisture-absorbing) packets. These packets can make the helmet feel like it is incorrectly sized or cause pressure points and rightness in the forehead area if they are accidentally wedged behind the fit pad during shipping. If no desiccant packets are present, try the helmet on a second time for an extended period – keep in mind that padding breaks in over time. If the helmet is still too tight, have someone re-measure your head to confirm sizing – you may need to move up to the next size. If you are going to wear a head sock or balaclava with the helmet, Bell recommends using the balaclava when trying on the helmet for proper fit. For more information reference the Bell Racing sizing chart or review our instructions on how to fit a helmet.

Will my Bell helmet work with head and neck restraint devices?
All Bell models homologated to Snell SA 2015, SFI 24.1 Youth, FIA8859 or FIA8860 are produced with M6 terminal hardware incorporated into the helmet shell and certified for use with approved head and neck restraint devices. Models designed specifically for karting will not include M6 terminals and are not appropriate for head and neck devices. Bell recommends contacting the head and neck restraint supplier to confirm the anchor system required for the specific device.

For Snell SA2010 or older models, many helmets are pre-drilled and do not have M6 terminal hardware in the shell. For pre-drilled models, the head and neck restraint device will have an anchor option with back plate hardware. Please remember when installing, the back-plate anchor hardware must be inserted between the shell and the helmet liner with the threads matched up to the pre-drilled hole in the shell. Please contact the head and neck restraint manufacturer for specific instructions or contact Bell Racing if you have questions.

Pre-Drilled helmets have a removable rubber plug that will expose the pre-drilled hole.

Why is there a difference in price from one model to the next when some look very similar?
Bell offers a wide range of helmet models at various price points with features differentiated by series: Advanced, Carbon, Pro and Sport. The Advanced helmets incorporate aerospace-grade carbon and state-of-the-art moulding techniques resulting in a higher-performance helmet that is considerably more expensive to produce than standard models. The Carbon and Pro series models have higher-end features including advanced shell construction, carbon materials, carbon composite materials, professional fit interiors, and upgraded moisture-wicking fabric and are available in fitted sizes. The Sport series is designed for budget-conscious drivers and incorporate standard features and generic sized interiors to keep the price competitive.

What helmet certification is required for racing outside of the United States at an FIA-sanctioned event?
Most FIA-sanctioned events outside the United States have specific helmet requirements and many will not recognise the Snell SA2015 standard. The FIA regards the Snell SA2015 standard on its own as not satisfactory for use with head and neck restraint devices. As most FIA events require head and neck restraint devices, customers participating in the events should confirm if either the FIA8859-2015 homologation or FIA8860 homologation is required. Bell Racing sells several models that are dual certified to both SA2015 / FIA8859-2015 in addition to helmets certified to FIA8860. We strongly recommend confirming the helmet requirements for the FIA series before leaving the United States.

Can my helmet be recertified to the new standard?
No. Helmets can’t be sent back to Bell Racing to be recertified or homologated to the latest standard. The date of manufacture of the helmet is tied specifically to the standard to which it was certified when it was produced.

How do I locate the size of my current helmet?
There is a size label sewn into the back of the helmet’s interior fit pad. To locate the label, simply lift the interior padding at the back of the helmet and look on the foam side of the fit pad.

How do I know what helmet model I have and what shield it takes?
Every Bell Racing helmet has the model name and date of manufacture stamped into the chin strap D-ring. The shield type and date of manufacture is stamped on the side of the shield (driver’s right).

Can I get my helmet relined?
Yes. However, Bell Racing can only reline helmets in the current product line being produced to the current homologation standard. Older helmets from previous standards can’t be relined. Customer service charges will apply and relining requirement approval in advance. For information on pricing, e-mail us at sales@racerproducts.co.nz.

How long is my helmet good for and what if it is involved in an accident?
Bell Racing recommends replacing the helmet every three to five years depending on the amount of use and its condition. If the helmet had been involved in an accident, it should be inspected carefully and replaced if there are any signs of shell delamination or cracking or liner compression. If the driver loses consciousness during an accident the helmet should be replaced immediately. Bell offers free inspections to customers to help determine if the helmet is sound to continue to use as head protection. For information on accident inspections, email us at sales@racerproducts.co.nz.

Can I drill into my helmet?
Drilling into any helmet is subject to voiding the warranty of any Bell Helmet. Drilling into the helmet compromises the safety rating and voids all homologations on the helmet. It is highly recommended to not drill into the helmet in any area.

Can I adjust my chin strap anchor points?
No, the chin strap anchor points are engineered and approved by the homologating bodies to be in those positions for the highest level of safety. The chin straps can be rotated slightly upon that anchor but are to not be moved to any other part of the helmet. Tampering with the chin strap voids the warranty and homologations.

What can I attach to my helmet?
Do not attach anything to your helmet, except for helmet accessories authorized by Bell Racing or approved head and neck restraints by the FIA or SFI in countries where SFI is approved. Attachments can focus a blow in a small area, restricting the helmet from performing to its designed standard. Rigid attachments can cause twisting of your head or neck in an accident, which can cause serious injury or death. For any questions about attaching anything to a helmet, please contact Bell Racing.

Can I make modifications to the helmet?
No, absolutely no modifications are to be made to the helmet. To maintain the full efficiency of the helmet, there should not be any modifications made to the structure of the helmet, the interior, or the component parts. Only install accessories authorized by Bell Racing. If you have any questions regarding modifications, please email us at sales@racerproducts.co.nz.