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Bell Slant

*Est. $55

Reviewed

August 2011

by ConsumerSearch

Best-value bike helmet

Pros

Good value
Suitable for road or mountain biking
Easy to adjust

Cons

Annoying straps

Our Analysis
Specs

Reviewers say the Bell Slant is a versatile bike helmet that won't break the bank. It gets very high marks for value, as it is relatively lightweight and well ventilated for a helmet in this price range. The Slant comes with a removable visor, so it's suitable for both road and mountain biking. Unlike more expensive bike helmets, which come in multiple sizes, the Bell Slant is available in only one universal adult size that fits head sizes from 21.25 inches to 24 inches. Even so, reviewers say the ErgoDial fit system is easy to use, and most testers are able to adjust it appropriately to ensure a comfortable fit. The Bell Slant has 21 wind vents, so testers say it keeps their head relatively cool on hot days. However, some users complain about the straps, which are overly stiff and don't lie flat. For women with smaller heads, the Giro Skyla (*Est. $40) also gets high marks; it fits head sizes from 19.75 to 22.5 inches.

The best review of the Bell Slant bike helmet comes from Britain's Mountain Bike Rider magazine, which includes the Slant in a group test. The review was conducted last year, but the analysis is still useful. The Bell Slant was also included in an older test at ConsumerReports.org, although that review is no longer available online. User reviews at Amazon.com and Buzzillions.com help round out the coverage.

Giro Skyla Sport Bike Womens Helmet

from Amazon.com

New: $109.99

Average Customer Review:

Where To Buy

Bell Slant Bike Helmet (Silver/White, Universal Fit)

Buy new: $55.00 $46.99 13 Used & new from $37.99

In Stock. Eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping

Our Sources

1. Mountain Bike Rider

Mountain Bike Rider includes the Bell Slant in this test of nine budget bike helmets. Each helmet is thoroughly tested and rated. The Bell Slant is the only helmet that receives a perfect 10 rating.

Review: Budget Helmets, Editors of Mountain Bike Rider, July 2010

2. ConsumerReports.org

ConsumerReports.org hasn't tested adult bike helmets since 2006, although the Bell Slant was included in that older test. Unfortunately, the review is no longer available online.

Review: Bike Helmets, Editors of ConsumerReports.org, June 2006

3. Men's Health South Africa

The South African edition of Men's Health magazine recommends the Bell Slant for off-road riding. "It may not be the lightest, or sleekest lid on the market, but it is incredibly well-ventilated and is a bargain buy," the editors write.

Review: Essential Gear, Editors of Men's Health South Africa, May 2011

4. Buzzillions.com

More than 30 reviews at Buzzillions.com combine to give the Bell Slant a 4.5-star rating (out of 5). Reviewers say the helmet is comfortable and a great value. They also like that it is versatile enough for road or mountain biking.

Review: Bell Slant Cycling Helmet, Contributors to Buzzillions.com

5. Amazon.com

The Bell Slant earns high overall ratings after nearly 30 reviews at Amazon.com. Users say the fit system is easy to adjust, and many owners rave about the ventilation. However, a few critics say the straps are stiff and don't lie flat.

Review: Bell Slant Bike Helmet, Contributors to Amazon.com

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