088 OFF-TRACK
No matter what sport you participate in, there’s a good chance everyone
has worn a Bell helmet at some point or another. In the past few years, Bell’s
Moto-9 has become one of the most popular choices for two-wheeled en-
thusiasts, both on and off the track. As a result, Bell offers their premium
design in several options and colorways to suit all sorts of riders and their
budgets. While the Moto-9 is typically associated with Bell’s Flex technology,
they also offer a version with MIPS and this standard helmet that we tested.
Despite not sharing the more advanced technologies of its close relatives,
the standard Moto-9 still packs tons of premium helmet features into the
lightweight helmet. There is no shortage of ventilation built into the EPS-lined
chin bar, adjustable visor, and composite shell. The shell itself is a mixture of
aramid, carbon fiber, and fiberglass. This keeps costs low along with weight,
but still provides strength. Another feature we genuinely appreciate is the
integration of the Magnefusion Emergency Release System (MERS), which al-
lows for safe removal of the helmet in the event of a potential spinal injury.
This is something we highly recommend riders consider when they’re shop-
ping for their next lid. Bell’s Moto-9 also comes Eject System ready, which is
essentially an inflatable air bladder that pushes the helmet free of the rider
without twisting or straining the spinal cord. The Eject System is mandatory
for professional Supercross and motocross riders, and for good reason. We
also appreciate little features like removable, washable cheek pads that are
plenty comfortable, along with Bell’s QuickFlip visor screws, making visor ad-
justment and removal a cinch.
Bell’s Moto-9 helmet meets DOT, ECE, and Snell M2015 safety standards.
Surprisingly, not all helmets meet all three of those. Bell also has a five-year
warranty on this helmet, and while we hope nobody puts it to use, it’s nice
to have the peace of mind. With a reasonable price tag and great colorways,
like the Eli Tomac replica featured here, the standard Moto-9 is a solid choice
for anyone shopping for their next helmet.bellhelmets.comPrice: $399.95BELL MOTO-9
CK PHOTOS BY DONN MAEDA
BELL MOTO- 9
Things can happen quickly on the trail, and around
any corner there could be an unforeseen object, like
a tree branch, just waiting to catch you off guard. Thor
has the solution to this common problem, however,
with their Sentry vest. A hard-plastic roost deflector is
mated to ventilated, padded micro-mesh to provide
a tight fit with maximum protection. This combination
is great for off-road riding and could even be used
in motocross. Even in the hot desert, the Sentry vest
doesn’t overheat the rider, and it tucks nicely under
the jersey.
thormx.com
Price: $139.95
THOR SENTRY VEST