Are you looking for a versatile, comfortable, and affordable helmet that can handle both street and off-road riding? If so, you might want to check out the BELL MX-9 Motorcycle Helmet. This helmet is designed to offer the best of both worlds, with features that make it suitable for different terrains and conditions. In this review, I will go over the main aspects of this helmet, such as its features, ease of use, performance, support, value for money, comparison with other products, best alternative, and conclusion. I will also list the pros and cons of this helmet, and provide some links to where you can find more information or buy it online. Let’s get started!
BELL MX-9 Motorcycle Helmet Review
Features
The BELL MX-9 Motorcycle Helmet has several features that make it stand out from other helmets in its category. Here are some of them:
- MIPS Technology: MIPS stands for Multi-directional Impact Protection System, and it is a safety feature that reduces the rotational forces on the head in case of an impact. The helmet has a slip layer inside that allows the helmet to move slightly relative to the head, absorbing some of the energy and preventing brain injuries. This feature is not very common in helmets at this price range, and it adds an extra layer of protection for the rider.
- Polycarbonate Shell: The helmet has a lightweight and durable polycarbonate shell that resists impacts and abrasions. The shell also has an aerodynamic shape that reduces drag and wind noise, and a removable peak that can be adjusted or removed depending on the riding situation. The peak helps to block the sun and debris, but it can also catch the wind at high speeds or when turning the head. The helmet comes in three shell sizes to fit different head shapes and sizes.
- Ventilation System: The helmet has a generous ventilation system that keeps the rider cool and comfortable. The helmet has a large chin vent that can be opened or closed with a glove-friendly switch, two brow vents that are always open, two top vents that can be adjusted with sliders, and four exhaust vents at the back that create a negative pressure to draw out hot air. The vents are effective at providing airflow and preventing fogging, but they can also let in some dust or water in harsh conditions.
- Visor System: The helmet has a clear visor that offers a wide field of vision and protects the eyes from wind, dust, bugs, and UV rays. The visor has an anti-scratch coating and a NutraFog II anti-fog coating that prevents fogging in cold or humid weather. The visor can be easily removed or replaced with a quick-release mechanism that does not require any tools. The helmet also comes with an integrated flip-down sun shield that can be activated with a lever on the left side of the helmet. The sun shield is tinted and offers extra protection from glare and sunlight.
- Liner System: The helmet has a removable, washable, and antibacterial liner that is made of moisture-wicking fabric that keeps the rider dry and fresh. The liner is soft and comfortable, and it conforms to the shape of the head for a snug fit. The liner also has speaker pockets that can accommodate communication devices or headphones. The liner can be easily taken out or put back in with snaps and velcro.
Ease of Use
The BELL MX-9 Motorcycle Helmet is easy to use and adjust for different riding scenarios. Here are some aspects of its ease of use:
- Fit: The helmet has an intermediate oval shape that fits most head shapes well. The helmet also has an adjustable chin strap with a D-ring closure that secures the helmet firmly on the head. The strap has a padded chin guard that prevents chafing and irritation. The helmet also has an AirFit system that allows the rider to inflate or deflate air bladders inside the cheek pads to customize the fit and comfort level. The AirFit system can be operated with a pump button on the left side of the helmet.
- Comfort: The helmet is comfortable to wear for long periods of time, thanks to its lightweight shell, plush liner, ample ventilation, and AirFit system. The helmet does not cause any pressure points or hot spots on the head, and it does not feel too tight or too loose. The helmet also has a padded neck roll that prevents wind noise and drafts from entering the helmet.
- Noise: The helmet is relatively quiet for an adventure helmet, but it is not as quiet as a full-face street helmet. The helmet does have some wind noise at high speeds or when turning the head, especially with the peak on. However, the noise level is not unbearable, and it can be reduced by wearing ear plugs or using a communication device.
- Visibility: The helmet offers excellent visibility in all directions, thanks to its large visor and sun shield. The visor is clear and distortion-free, and it does not fog up easily. The sun shield is tinted and effective at reducing glare and sunlight. The helmet also has a removable peak that can be adjusted or removed to suit the riding situation. The peak helps to block the sun and debris, but it can also obstruct the view of the road or the sky in some angles.
Performance
The BELL MX-9 Motorcycle Helmet performs well in different riding conditions and terrains. Here are some aspects of its performance:
- Safety: The helmet is DOT and ECE certified, which means it meets or exceeds the safety standards for motorcycle helmets in North America and Europe. The helmet also has MIPS technology, which adds an extra level of protection against rotational impacts. The helmet has a strong and lightweight polycarbonate shell that resists impacts and abrasions, and a shock-absorbing EPS liner that disperses the energy of an impact. The helmet also has a clear visor and a sun shield that protect the eyes from wind, dust, bugs, and UV rays.
- Durability: The helmet is durable and long-lasting, thanks to its quality materials and construction. The helmet has a polycarbonate shell that is resistant to scratches and cracks, and a visor that has an anti-scratch and anti-fog coating. The helmet also has a removable, washable, and antibacterial liner that is easy to clean and maintain. The helmet also has a five-year warranty from the manufacturer, which covers any defects or damages caused by normal use.
- Versatility: The helmet is versatile and adaptable to different riding situations and preferences. The helmet can be used for both street and off-road riding, with features that make it suitable for different terrains and conditions. The helmet has a removable peak that can be adjusted or removed depending on the need for aerodynamics or sun protection. The helmet also has an integrated sun shield that can be flipped down or up depending on the light level. The helmet also has an AirFit system that allows the rider to adjust the fit and comfort level of the cheek pads.
Support
The BELL MX-9 Motorcycle Helmet has good support from the manufacturer and the retailer. Here are some aspects of its support:
- Customer Service: The manufacturer offers customer service through phone, email, or online chat. The customer service representatives are friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable about the product. They can answer any questions or concerns that the customer may have about the product, such as its features, specifications, warranty, or returns. They can also provide technical support or troubleshooting tips if the customer encounters any problems with the product.
- Warranty: The manufacturer offers a five-year warranty from the date of purchase for the product. The warranty covers any defects or damages caused by normal use of the product. The warranty does not cover any damages caused by misuse, abuse, accidents, modifications, or wear and tear of the product. To claim the warranty, the customer needs to provide proof of purchase and contact the manufacturer or the retailer.
- Returns: The retailer offers a 30-day return policy for the product. The customer can return the product within 30 days of receiving it for any reason, as long as it is in new and unused condition, with all the original packaging and accessories. The customer needs to contact the retailer to request a return authorization number and follow the instructions for shipping the product back. The customer is responsible for paying the return shipping costs, unless the product is defective or damaged.
Value for Money
The BELL MX-9 Motorcycle Helmet offers good value for money, considering its features, quality, performance, and price. Here are some aspects of its value for money:
- Price: The helmet has a reasonable price of around $250 USD (depending on the size, color, and graphic options). This price is competitive with other helmets in its category, especially considering that it has MIPS technology, which is not very common in helmets at this price range. The helmet also comes with two face shields (clear and smoked), which adds to its value.
- Quality: The helmet has a high quality of materials and construction, which reflects its reputation as a reputable brand in the motorcycle industry. The helmet has a polycarbonate shell that is strong and lightweight, a visor system that is clear and fog-resistant, a liner system that is comfortable and antibacterial, and a ventilation system that is effective and adjustable. The helmet also has a sleek and aggressive design that looks good on any bike.
- Performance: The helmet performs well in different riding conditions and terrains, offering safety, comfort, versatility, and durability. The helmet has MIPS technology that protects against rotational impacts, a ventilation system that keeps the rider cool and comfortable, a visor system that offers excellent visibility and eye protection, a peak system that offers sun protection and aerodynamics options, an AirFit system that offers fit customization options.
Comparison with Other Products
The BELL MX-9 Motorcycle Helmet can be compared with other helmets in its category, such as the Shoei Hornet X2, the Arai XD4, and the HJC DS-X1. These helmets are all aimed at adventure riders who want a helmet that can perform well on both paved and unpaved roads. Here are some of the main similarities and differences between them:
| Helmet | Price | Weight | Shell Material | Safety Rating | Ventilation | Visor System | Peak System |
| BELL MX-9 | $250 | 3.6 lbs | Polycarbonate | DOT, ECE, MIPS | 9 vents (3 adjustable) | Clear + sun shield (anti-scratch, anti-fog) | Removable, adjustable |
| Shoei Hornet X2 | $600 | 3.7 lbs | Fiberglass composite | DOT, SNELL | 4 vents (2 adjustable) | Clear + pinlock (anti-scratch, anti-fog) | Removable, adjustable |
| Arai XD4 | $750 | 3.7 lbs | Fiberglass composite | DOT, SNELL | 7 vents (5 adjustable) | Clear + pinlock (anti-scratch, anti-fog) | Removable, adjustable |
| HJC DS-X1 | $170 | 3.7 lbs | Polycarbonate | DOT, ECE | 7 vents (3 adjustable) | Clear + sun shield (anti-scratch, anti-fog) | Removable, fixed |
As you can see from the table, the BELL MX-9 has some advantages and disadvantages over its competitors. Some of the advantages are:
- It has the lowest price among the four helmets, making it a great value for money option.
- It has the most ventilation options among the four helmets, with nine vents in total and three of them being adjustable. This makes it very effective at keeping the rider cool and comfortable in various weather conditions.
- It has MIPS technology, which is a safety feature that reduces the rotational forces on the head in case of an impact. This feature is not very common in helmets at this price range, and it adds an extra layer of protection for the rider.
Some of the disadvantages are:
- It has the heaviest weight among the four helmets, making it more tiring to wear for long periods of time.
- It has the least durable shell material among the four helmets, being made of polycarbonate instead of fiberglass composite. This makes it more prone to scratches and cracks over time.
- It has the least versatile peak system among the four helmets, being removable but not fixed. This means that the peak can catch the wind at high speeds or when turning the head, creating drag and noise.
Best Alternative
If you are not convinced by the BELL MX-9 Motorcycle Helmet, or if you are looking for a different option, I would suggest the Shoei Hornet X2 as the best alternative. This helmet is more expensive than the BELL MX-9, but it also offers more features and benefits. Here are some of them:
- It has a lighter weight than the BELL MX-9, making it more comfortable to wear for long rides.
- It has a more durable shell material than the BELL MX-9, being made of fiberglass composite instead of polycarbonate. This makes it more resistant to impacts and abrasions over time.
- It has a more versatile peak system than the BELL MX-9, being removable and adjustable. This means that the peak can be set to different angles or removed entirely depending on the riding situation.
The Shoei Hornet X2 is also DOT and SNELL certified, which means it meets or exceeds the safety standards for motorcycle helmets in North America. It also has a clear visor with a pinlock system that prevents fogging in cold or humid weather. The only downside of this helmet is that it does not have MIPS technology, which is a feature that some riders might prefer.
Here are the pros and cons of the BELL MX-9 Motorcycle Helmet:
Pros:
- Low price
- MIPS technology
- Ample ventilation
- Clear visor with sun shield
- Removable peak
Cons:
- Heavy weight
- Less durable shell material
- Less versatile peak system
Conclusion
The BELL MX-9 Motorcycle Helmet is a versatile and affordable helmet that can handle both street and off-road riding. It has features that make it suitable for different terrains and conditions, such as MIPS technology, a generous ventilation system, a clear visor with a sun shield, and a removable peak. However, it also has some drawbacks, such as a heavy weight, a less durable shell material, and a less versatile peak system. If you are looking for a helmet that can perform well on both paved and unpaved roads, and you are on a budget, the BELL MX-9 might be a good option for you. However, if you are looking for a helmet that offers more features and benefits, and you are willing to pay more, the Shoei Hornet X2 might be a better alternative for you.
If you are interested in buying the BELL MX-9 Motorcycle Helmet, you can find more information or buy it online from these links: RevZilla | Amazon | SoloMoto