Bell Sweep

The Bell Sweep has changed slightly for 2010. It used to come in R and XC versions with the difference literally being a visor on the XC variant. This year the two variants are gone and the Sweep now comes in a single convertible version with a removable visor. Whether this is to cut costs or to recognise the increasing number of riders who ride both road and dirt, we're not sure. We'll assume the latter and it's good move! The Sweep is pitched as a pure racing lid, it's been used by Tour de France riders so it should be good enough for the most seasoned of racers. The fact that you can then hit the trails in the same lid sounds too good to be true.

Let's not beat around the bush here. The Sweep is a fantastic helmet. It's noticeably light and comfortable (280g), to the point where you'll forget to remove it when all your riding buddies are scrambling to remove theirs at tea/cake stops. It looks neat and small on the head and there's an adjustable and removable visor. It makes for a versatile lid that's both strong enough for off-road use, yet has the looks and pedigree of a pro-racing road lid. If you ride both mud and asphalt, and only want one helmet, this really is it!

Adjustment is via Bell's GPS system which has both pros and cons. Notches in the adjustment wheel are a little wide and occasionally you can find one notch slightly too loose but the next too tight - it's a really minor point but is still noticeable, so try before you buy. On the other hand, it can be adjusted one-handed on the fly for those super-hot days when your head seems to swell. And it's fool proof in that you'll always get symmetrical adjustment! The pads are thin and comfortable, although a little sweat prone. The straps have a soft, silky finish to them and are comfortable, fitting well around the ears.

the rear vent arrangement looks brilliant and not unlike something from Transformers!

The strength of the helmet was proven and tested first-hand in a 20mph head-first stack at the Kona Bristol Bike Fest. The Sweep did its job absorbing the impact, suffering a hairline crack but holding together safely. Although with this size of impact, even if it hadn't cracked, it would have needed to be replaced as a precautionary measure. The crash replacement scheme is both fair and handy in these situations. Protection around the back of the head is limited, but for normal race, xc and trail use it's more than adequate; the rear vent arrangement looks brilliant and not unlike something from Transformers!

The Sweep isn't without its niggles but it's hard not to love it and it's pros far outweigh the very minor cons. It's easily one of the best looking helmets around; it's crazy light but super strong, very cool, well vented and a joy to wear. You can't put your finger on it but it just feels right. It's not cheap at £99 but spend a few rides in it and it'll feel like it's worth every penny! And to be fair to it, there are much pricier lids that offer nothing more.

A simply brilliant helmet that is cracking value even at £99.

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