Bell Cruiser Eliminator

When you consider that 60 years of evolution has gone into the creation of a stripped down helmet, we are talking about a legendary reputation when it comes to head protection. The 2020 Eliminator sits right up there with its light weight, fibreglass composite shell construction, anti-bacterial liner, contoured cheek pads, plus provision for an anti-fog shield with Class 1 optics.

The first thing of note are the nine circular vents that have been drilled into the top of the helmet, allowing air to pass through the shell and EPS liner to the head. With nothing to impede the venting, they work effectively enough, as do the four smaller vents in a metal grid in the chin bar. With all those air vents, you might be thinking that this is going to be one noisy helmet. Well, there are two sides to that thought. At modest speeds it is fine, but hit the motorway and wind the power on, and you will notice the difference, but if you are anything like me and wear ear defenders, then you should be fine.

As there is no way of closing the vents, Bell offers a clip-on external vent cover so you can block those top holes if you need to. Originally costing around £15 as an add-on, the covers are now supplied FOC with the helmet. The smoke-tinted piece slots into place on top of the Eliminator’s signature riveted vents and can be easily fitted and removed. It is also available in three size variations. I found replacing the face shield for a darker one a bit of a faff, not having to hand a 6mm Allen/hex key. Should you want to adjust the tightness of the opening/closure, you will also need a 2.5mm key. To the left side of the visor, a pin and hole lock secures the visor in place once you are on the move. Bell have since thought about that one too, and thanks to a second new update regarding this model, the Eliminator now comes with a neat little multi tool with the Allen key sizes required for changing the visor.

Another thing of note is the ‘double glazing’ groove around the inside of the visor, Bell’s ProVision anti-fog system which is neat because there are no pins involved. With it being suited to oval head shapes, you will need to check the fit before purchasing, which is pretty obvious really, but I know some riders do buy before they try. My head size takes a Medium (57-58cm) helmet, and it fitted perfectly. With the retro styling comes a range of neat colour options. I really like mine in a Vanish Matt Blue/Yellow.

Usefully, the Eliminator will accommodate my Sena 10C Evo camera and comms system. I have not fitted it yet, but imagine I will need to use a sticky mount due to the thickness of the helmet’s bottom edge for a clamp mount, but that is not a problem. I can also comfortably slide my glasses on when I have the helmet in place. So, in summation, this is a stylish, retro helmet suitable for the cruiser fraternity. With the inclusion of Allen/hex keys for swapping/adjusting the visor, and the clip-on external vent cover for all but the driest of weather, if you like the looks and are happy to live with the quirkiness, then go for it.

Tested by: Mike Cowton / £349.99 / www.bellhelmets.com