Ever since we first saw the Bell Star Pro on the heads of Pro Tour cyclists this spring, we have been looking forward to getting the full details. From even the briefest glimpse we knew that Bell had crafted something unique. Well today we finally get to share the full details with you, and so far it appears to be everything we had hoped.
What makes the Star Pro so unique are the adjustable vents (Bell calls this “Active Aero Technology”) that with the flick of a switch convert it from aero to cool. With the vents closed on a 30° angle at 25 mph, Bell claims that this is the fastest aero helmet on the market today.
For serious sprinters (those able to put down 1150 watts over 300 meters). This could translate to 1.5 meters.
With the vents open, the Star Pro cooled faster than a bare head (in the first five minutes) and is on par with the Bell Gage – one of the coolest helmets on the market today.
The Active Aero Technology is not the only trick Bell built into this helmet. Overbrow ventilation regulates temperature by drawing cool air into the intake ports and circulating it through air channels around your head.
Similar to other aero helmets on the market, the Star Pro will be offered with a shield. The magnetic Zeiss shield can be removed when needed and stored on the helmet.
Finally, the Star Pro is utilizing Bell’s new Float Fit System, which allows you to adjust your helmet in two ways – circumference adjustment and vertical positioning. The arms of the fit system feature a “float” design that automatically cradles the occipital lobe bump in the back of your head.
The Star Pro has a claimed weight of 280g and is both CPSC and CE EN1078 certified. Three sizes and six colors will be available at launch. Two eye shields will be offered (clear and tinted) as well. Star Pro is priced for retail at $240 ($280 with shield) and will be available at Bell dealers in October.
Can I assume that Bell doesn’t do a comparison to the Air Attack because of its relation to Giro? I’m in the market for a new lid, and have been debating back and forth between the Air Attack and the Garneau Course. Now this Bell looks intriguing, but I don’t know if I want to wait until October for a helmet that may or may not be on par with the current offerings.
Hi Mike – from what we understand one of the “Competitor Aero Helmets” was the Air Attack. Not sure if that will make your decision any easier though.
Actually, it does help… thanks. Based on what I’ve researched, that would most likely put the LG on par with the Bell from an aero perspective. The ventilation “flexibility” isn’t as big a concern for me – I’ll wear a thin beanie underneath my helmet when training in cooler weather (I’m in NJ). Sounds like it will most likely be the LG for me.
Really enjoy the blog…
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