Bell XR MIPS Solid Road, Gravel & Trail Cycling Helmet | MIPS

The Bell XR MIPS Solid is a road and gravel cycling helmet with a deep-coverage fit, Mips Evolve rotational protection and a Fidlock magnetic buckle. The Bell XR MIPS Solid weighs 310 g in size M, comes in S, M and L for 52–62 cm heads, and is offered in matte black, steel grey and white.

Who it's for

One helmet for the rider who does a bit of everything: the Tuesday bunch ride, a gravel loop through the hinterland on Saturday, the commute in between. Bell call the fit Deep Road: generous protection wrapped in the slim, clean profile of the XR family. The Solid colourways skip the graphics, so it suits any kit.

Fit and sizing

• S: 52–56 cm
• M: 55–59 cm
• L: 58–62 cm

Measure round your head about a finger-width above the eyebrows. If you land on an overlap, such as 55 or 56 cm, try the helmet on both ways: it should sit level, low on the forehead, and stay put when you shake your head before you do up the strap. No-Twist Tri-Glides keep the straps flat under the ears, the Fidlock magnetic buckle clicks shut without fiddling, and Bell's Sweat Guide is there for the long, hot climbs.

Ventilation and weight

At 310 g in size M, the XR MIPS is light enough to forget about on a long day. Large vents run front to back to keep air moving on a slow climb in a Queensland summer, and there is eyewear storage built in so your glasses ride safely in the vents when you stop for coffee. The large rear vent is also shaped to take Bell's Blackburn Grid rear light.

Rotational protection

Mips Evolve is a low-friction layer inside the helmet that adds protection in certain crashes, particularly angled impacts. It sits alongside Bell's Ionic+ comfort padding.

Looking after it

Wash the pads by hand in mild soapy water and let them air-dry. Wipe the shell with a damp cloth, keep it out of a hot car, and replace the helmet after any crash, even if you cannot see damage.