Cycle News is a weekly magazine that covers all aspects of motorcycling including Supercross, Motocross and MotoGP as well as new motorcycles
Issue link: https://magazine.cyclenews.com/i/543938
P128 CN III PRODUCT REVIEW BELL MX-9 ADVENTURE HELMET Standout Feature •Multiple uses •Integrated face shield •Velocity Flow Ventilation System Rider Analysis The new MX-9 Adventure helmet from Bell might sell for significantly less than some of its higher-end rivals like those from Arai and Shoei, but it doesn't feel that way when you remove it from the box for the first time. It doesn't scream "budget" by any means, instead it has the feel and finish of a helmet twice its cost. As far as graphics, most adventure and dual sport riders I know aren't looking for outlandish designs and neo colors but they don't want "boring" either. The MX-9 falls somewhere in between. At 3.3 pounds, it's a respectably light lid. I found the MX-9 to be very comfortable for my head. Of course, everyone's head shape is different, that's why Bell offers three shell sizes and multiple liners to choose from. I tend to get hot spots on my forehead but had no such issue. It's well ventilated and the chin bar is placed just far enough outward not to feel claustrophobic. The chin vent can be closed but the same can't be said for the eyebrow vents. They stay permanently open. Not sure if that will be an issue in the rain (haven't seen a lot of that lately here in California). There are two visor positions via two screw holes located at the top of the lid. Either way, at around 60 mph, the peak will start to catch the wind and jerk your head around. The peak, however, can easily be removed. Wind noise is up there—but not obnoxious—compared to most street-only helmets. The drop-down face shield is easy to operate and has a unique ridge that forms nicely to the chin bar when closed. This ridge design allows for better sealing and a flatter lens for less distortion. The eyeport is large and has been shaped so you can still wear goggles with the face shield in place. If you use an intercom system like I do, the MX-9 isn't very accommodating. There is no room for speakers or a clamp-mount system; you'll need Velcro to make it work. Overall, I found the Bell MX-9 Adventure to be a very good helmet and I never hesitated putting it on for a ride. It's very functional, comfortable, well built and would seem like a safe helmet to be in if you do crash and land on your head, which is its number-one purpose. It's well worth looking into. For those looking for an inexpensive—but not cheap—helmet for adventure and/or dual sport riding, you've probably noticed there aren't a whole lot out there to choose from. That's where the new Bell MX-9 Adventure helmet comes in. The MX-9, designed for both street and dirt use that takes its inspiration from the new Bell Moto-9 Flex helmet, is a sub-$200 lid that still offers a good amount of features in a quality package. It has a lightweight injected polymer composite shell (there are three shells and EPS sizes for a personalized fit), tons of ventilation and an integrated face shield with a removable peak for street riding. It also has a moisture-wicking liner that is easily removable and washable. In all, the helmet weighs a claimed 3.3 pounds. The MX-9 adventure is DOT certified and comes in a variety of color and graphics combinations, including solid hi-vis yellow. It also comes in the usual range of sizes: XS S, M, L, XL and XL. LIST PRICE: $189.95-$199.99 Website: www.bellhelmets.com