Road Cycling

Reviewed: Bell Zephyr MIPS Road Cycling Helmet

It's got the latest protective technology and breathes like a horse, but how good is the Zephyr?

When it comes to speed performance and protection, Bell Helmets certainly know a thing or two.

First developments took place in the Californian basement of Rory Ritcher who’s passion for racing cars inspired him to invest his time into drivers protection. From that seed, Bell was born and grew to be one of the most regarded helmet brands we know them to be today.

Find out why Bell Helmets is a TWC champion brand

Across all disciplines of cycling, Bell has a lid for all riders and to suit all styles. We’ve gotten our hands on the latest Bell Zephyr MIPS road cycling helmet to see if it lives up to the brand’s sterling reputation.

Bell Zypher MIPS road cycling helmet

Looking at the construction of the Zephyr and it’s easy to see where the years of research, development and testing have gone into its design.

Progressive Layering technology has been used to join two EPS segments that have different densities to help manage impact energies, further improved by an integrated MIPS system. All this sits underneath a fusion in-mould polycarbonate shell which has a carefully calculated shape that boasts precision aero properties.

The new Float Fit Race retention system allows you to make incremental height and width-adjustments with a dial in the rear and a 360 cradle.

There are ample vents strategically placed around the helmet, 18 to be exact. All working together to draw air in to circulate and cool your head as you ride. Sweat Guide padding lines the inner shell to not only aid in comfort but to absorb and divert sweat away from your eyes too.

Available in nine colours, more information on the Zephyr can be found on Bell Helmets’ website here.

Bell Zephyr MIPS road cycling helmet: Verdict

True to what one would come to expect from Bell Helmets, I was pleasantly surprised with the fit and performance on the Zephyr lid. It was, indeed, comfortable to wear for long rides, short ones and even on the more recent warmer days.

It’s superbly ventilated. The integrated MIPS system is practically flawless and the additional protection to reduce rotational forces upon impact, certainly gave me comfort and reassurance.

It isn’t the lightest of road helmets, not when compared to the likes of the MET Trenta 3K Carbon, where the Zephyr weighs 60g more. Then again, the Trenta does retail for an additional £100. Retailing for approximately £150, the Zephyr can comfortably sit in the mid-high end of the price scale, but is it worth that value? Well, yes and no.

It’s certainly built well and to a high standard. It has the latest protective MIPS technology which has been well integrated and it certainly boasts a lot of breathability, but there are more affordable models on the market who offer similar, if not the same on a like-for-like basis.

Weight: 280g (Medium)
Sizes: Small – 52-56cm / Medium – 55-59cm / Large – 58-63cm
Colourways: Nine colourways to choose from
Price: £150+