
Bicycle helmet for commuters
- Comfortable and lightweight
- Smooth, round profile
- Performs well in impact tests
- Good value
- Comes in just one size
- Straps do not stay in place
The Bell Citi bike helmet is a favorite of reviewers, and it's often recommended for commuters. With 16 vents, reviewers say it is well ventilated, and a small visor helps reduce road glare. The Bell Citi also has a round, smooth profile, with few pointy edges that can snag in the event of a crash. The Citi bike helmet does well not only in government impact tests, but also in independent impact tests. The helmet comes in only one size, so it may not fit larger or smaller heads, but it does come in a variety of colors -- including bright yellow or orange for visibility. Most reviewers are impressed with the Bell Citi, but several have complaints about the chin straps. Some say the air whistles noisily through the chin straps and vents, and another reviewer says the straps do not stay put easily. If you prefer a sportier-looking helmet, the Giro Indicator (*Est. $40) also gets good reviews.
The Bell Citi receives reviews from both experts and consumers. The most comprehensive review comes from ConsumerReports.org, which tests the helmet on impact absorption, fit and ventilation. However, this test is several years old. Other reviews from sources like CommuteByBike.com or Time Out New York are helpful, but they are less detailed and not comparative. Almost 30 owners at Amazon.com and Buzzillions.com rate the Bell Citi, with a focus on ventilation and comfort.
Our Sources
ConsumerReports.org is the most thorough reviewer we found of bike helmets, but their latest bike helmet review is getting pretty outdated. ConsumerReports.org tests the Bell Citi and 13 other adult helmets on a number of criteria.
Review: Bike Helmets, Editors of ConsumerReports.org, Aug. 2007
2. Bicycling MagazineDetails/Subscribe
Editors at Bicycling magazine rate the Bell Citi as the best commuter helmet. The Citi is praised for being comfortable, lightweight and well ventilated at slower commuting speeds. The editors also like the rearview mirror that can fold away into the visor.
Review: Helmet Reviews, Editors of Bicycling magazine
3. Amazon.com
More than 35 owners review the Bell Citi on Amazon.com, giving it above-average ratings. Owners say it's easy to get a good fit, and the bright yellow color (one of six available) gets high marks for visibility. Some owners note that air can travel noisily through the helmet.
Review: Bell Citi Bike Helmet, Contributors to Amazon.com
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