What Is the Bell Bullitt Helmet Protection Rating?
The Helmet Gurus never fails to remind us that the main use of a helmet is to protect you from head injuries. Therefore, you should not be surprised that prospective helmet buyers or users care about protection ratings. Below is an overview of the protection rating of the Bell Bullitt helmet, a popular helmet among motorcyclists.
Understanding Safety Ratings
Let us first look at helmet protection ratings before we scrutinize them. Helmets undergo different tests and evaluations to assess their performance in the real world. The Department of Transportation (DOT) is one of the organizations that conducts helmet assessments. The DOT assessment examines how a helmet performs against impact and penetration forces. The Bell Bullitt helmet has the DOT certification, meaning it passed the tests.
The DOT doesn’t rate helmets; it just assesses them and gives a pass or fall result. The helmets that pass get the DOT certification mark. However, the DOT is not the only organization assessing helmets. Others, like the Safety Helmet Assessment and Rating Program, give helmets star ratings based on their performance. In the SHARP rating, a five-star rating is the highest rating, while a one-star rating is the lowest rating.
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The Bell Bullitt helmet has a 3-star SHARP rating. With the 3-star rating, the helmet performs above average, which is what many would call a decent performance. The rating means the helmet generally provides good impact protection on most parts of the helmet.
An Overview of the Bell Bullitt Helmet
So, what is the Bell Bullitt helmet like? The Bullitt is a full-face helmet (covers the entire head and face) with a retro look. If you have seen the early motorcycle helmets of the 1960s and 1970s, then you have a good idea of how the Bell Bullitt helmet looks. However, the Helmet Gurus reviews clearly show that the Bullitt helmet has modern safety features despite its retro look.
The helmet comes in three shell sizes for different riders. If you have multiple riders in your family, each of you can find a Bell helmet that fits them. Just remember to measure your head properly and choose the right helmet.
Many motorcyclists know the Bell Bullitt helmet for its wide field of view. This design will appeal to you if you like the open view of an open-face helmet but want the protection of a full-face helmet like the Bullitt. The helmet also has a ventilation system that intakes and exhausts air to keep you cool during your rides.
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Tips for Choosing a Helmet
Safety ratings are critical, but you should look beyond the ratings when shopping for a helmet. Say you buy a highly rated helmet, but it is uncomfortable or doesn’t pair well (in terms of style) with your riding gear. If you love looking classy while riding or don’t want uncomfortable helmets, you won’t like your highly rated helmet.
Apart from comfort and style, you should also care about a helmet’s fit. Even a highly-rated helmet will only protect you if it fits you properly. For example, an oversized helmet might slip over your eyes and block your vision. On the other hand, an undersized helmet might leave parts of your head exposed in an accident.
In conclusion, the Bell Bullitt helmet has an above-average rating, but you should consider much more than ratings when looking for a helmet. The Bell company has various certified helmets; you cannot fail to find a suitable one if you do your research well. Check the Helmet Gurus for reviews and buying guides.