Bell Lumen Helmet

Firmly of the tarmac tribe, the Bell Lumen sports a gently sculpted profile, that's accommodating of Gore tex covers when its biting cold and raining dogs while conforming to both EU and US safety standards. The latter might also explain why ours tipped the scales at 317g.

Quality of construction and materials are every bit what I'd expect from one of the world's biggest manufacturers, although its clear lacquer topcoat had begun receding in places. Colour scheme on ours was a timeless red, white and black tricolour that coordinated beautifully with my Univega and seems highly resistant to scuffing, swirling and similar superficial grazing. Other colour combos are available though including turquoise/silver; black/blue and white/silver.

A low-slung cradle improves stability and more significantly, is designed to protect the brain from the multiple twisting forces involved in faster terra firma tumbles. This also provides a nifty spot for small blinkies, which can be secreted out of harms' way within the centrally mounted rear vent.

You'd be forgiven for thinking inbuilt GPS was an integral guidance system but in this context the acronym refers to Bell's adjuster dial. Reminiscent of a derailleur jockey wheel, it's designed for ultra fine-tuning, say when donning a cap/buff mid ride. Easily operated in gloved hands, this is a different, as distinct from better system but gets my approval nonetheless. Machine washable anti bacterial pads continue the civilised theme, although given the twenty-two ultra efficient inlet/exhaust vents trench helmet should be something you'd need to worry about anyway.

Beautifully simple to fettle I was immediately conscious of the helmet's ergonomic fit and quickly forgot the 40g weight penalty over my regular lid. Air literally courses through the vents but without ramming the frontal lobe, explaining why I haven't suffered those agonising headaches when letting rip on extended descents in cool weather.

Its much the same story with steady cruising, cooling airflow wafts seamlessly through the scalp, retaining a temperate inner climate with only trace dampness apparent after three hours'. That said, dependant upon livery I've a feeling it may lose out to lighter competitors when temperatures climb nearer 30degrees, which may be a consideration for continental training camp devotees.

Verdict

Well fitting road helmet with the emphasis upon safety but minor weight penalty may deter some.