Bell Super 3R MIPS Review

In the world of full-face helmets, the general lack of versatility can be a deal breaker for the aspiring downhill rider. However, convertible models like the Bell Super 3R Mips offer two helmets in one, with a decent half shell and a functional full face helmet rolled into one package. If you earn your descents or want a great e-bike helmet, keep reading.

Impact Test

Although the Super 3R posted data that put it toward the bottom of our test group in terms of performance, but its also the only helmet with a removable chin bar. It has the required CPSC certification that deems it safe; our testing examines the nuances of impact test performance.

Beating out two other models, the Super 3R faired well in our slow impact drop test. While the data collected puts it toward the bottom of our test group, it's the only convertible model in our test. In the fast impact drop test, it performed beyond three other models, with data showing it can hold its own. We can only speculate that the inclusion of a MIPS liner helped it score better than others. Given the helmet's versatility and form factor, the 3R scored well, demonstrating how a convertible helmet can meet or exceed the performance of a dedicated full-face.

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Comfort

Our testers found the Super 3R to offer above-average comfort, thanks to a user-friendly adjustment dial located at the back, which helps fine-tune the fit of this less-padded model. As a half-shell, the helmet quickly became a favorite among testers who found it fit well with its dimensions. During more involved downhill descents, the minimalist construction caused a bit more rattle, which our testers found critical.

Putting this helmet on in full-face mode is a simple process, but it flexes less than a traditional full-face helmet. The fit feels lightweight, secure, and all-around comfortable. Your field of vision stays wide, whether you're wearing goggles or not, and there's no awkward pressure on your jaw or cheeks. The chin bar sits fairly close, which some of our testers didn't appreciate, but no one ended up tasting it. Our testers, who are more accustomed to riding in full-face helmets, felt that the half-shell mode felt too shallow, whereas those accustomed to wearing traditional bike helmets found it more comfortable.

Ventilation

The Super 3R breathes well, thanks to ample venting and minimalist pads. Even in full-face mode, we still found it to work well for aggressive enduro rides or days on the e-bike.

It was no surprise to our review crew that the 3R kept us cool. In full-face mode, this helmet provides more airflow than any other full-coverage lid. While it's cooler without the chin bar, it has far better airflow than any of the other helmets tested.

Usability

Overall, the Super 3R held its own as a feature-rich and user-friendly model in the lineup. We were initially concerned about the buckles on the chin bar, but despite muddy conditions, it performed very well throughout testing. When conditions turned muddy, the chin bar latches wouldn't lock into the upper helmet without a wipe down. This made the helmet feel cumbersome on messy days, but nothing an extra sunglasses cloth couldn't fix.

This model offers a traditional chin buckle, which works well and is easy to use. Testers loved the rubberized adjustment dial, which was easy to operate with gloves. Retention cradles, like those found on the 3R, are generally considered a positive feature, allowing for a more dialed-in fit. The included visor is adjustable, although it's slightly shorter than other options. As a fairly lightweight helmet, we'd highly recommend taking it easy on the chin bar when it's separated. The chin bar gains its strength from the rigidity of the entire helmet and feels somewhat delicate when pulling it in or out of a fanny pack.

Weight

Perhaps not surprisingly, this was among the lightest helmets in our review. At 26.3 ounces in full-face mode, this model is gentle on your neck muscles and leaves you feeling less fatigued.

The helmet's lightweight and superior breathability made us not want to take it off when downhills turned into pedaling sections. The general construction of the helmet is more similar to an EPS half-shell than a hard-shell reinforced DH helmet, and as such, we felt the need to exercise extra caution with it when tossing it in the truck for a shuttle lap.

Should You Buy the Bell Super 3R Mips?

At the end of the day, this is best considered a half shell helmet that includes a removable chin bar, for somegravity-fed biking. If you're a biker who wants a quiver-killer helmet, this is your one-stop shop. If you're looking for a helmet that can withstand full seasons in the bike park, we'd recommend looking elsewhere, as the removable chin bar becomes less helpful in lift-accessed terrain. It's also a great option for e-bikers looking for a bit more protection than a typical half-shell.

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