Bell FULL FACE - User Manual

BELL
FULL FACE
OWNER’S
MANUAL
FFManualEngMods2.5.indd 1 6/11/12 5:16 PM

Summary

Helmet Use and Safety Guidelines

Limited Impact Protection

Helmets cannot always protect against injury; severe impacts require replacement even if damage isn't visible.

Helmet Coverage Limitations

The helmet only protects covered areas of the head, not the neck or other bodily injuries.

General Safety Practices

Advice on helmet lifespan, avoiding modifications, child safety, riding practices, visibility, and driver awareness.

Fitting and Adjusting Your Bell Helmet

Helmet Positioning and Fit

Wear helmet low on forehead for protection; check fit by moving forehead skin with helmet rotation.

Step-by-Step Fitting Process

Guide to putting on, adjusting crown and cheek areas, and fastening the chin strap for a proper fit.

Final Fit Check and Removal

Test helmet stability by trying to roll it off; learn how to properly remove the helmet.

Visor and Camera Mount

Instructions for adjusting or removing the visor and attaching/detaching the camera mounting bracket.

Test Ride and Helmet Care

Test Ride and Fit Verification

Perform a test ride to confirm comfort and strap positioning; re-adjust as needed.

Important Usage Warnings

Always check adjustment; do not modify parts; no helmet guarantees protection against all injuries.

Cleaning Your Helmet

Use mild soap and water; avoid petroleum-based solvents that can damage protective materials.

Storing Your Helmet

Allow helmet to air dry and store in a cool, dry place; avoid excessive heat which can cause damage.

Bell Contact and Product Information

Bell Sports Contact Details

Addresses and phone/fax numbers for Bell Sports in the United States and Europe.

Worldwide Distributor Information

Guidance on finding a distributor or contacting Bell offices via their website.

Notified Body and Product Details

Information on the Notified Body, part number, publication date, and website for the owner's manual.

Patent and Copyright Information

Details on patents protecting Bell helmets and copyright information for the manual.

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Usage Features
3. Maintenance Features

This document serves as the owner's manual for Bell Full Face helmets, providing essential information on their function, proper usage, and maintenance.

Function Description

Bell Full Face helmets are designed specifically for pedal cyclists, offering limited impact protection for the head. Depending on the specific model and its certifications, the helmet may meet various safety standards:

• CPSC 1203 designation: Meets the CPSC Safety Standard for Bicycle Helmets for persons aged 5 and older.
• ASTM F1952 designation: Meets the ASTM requirements for a downhill helmet.
• ASTM F2032 designation: Meets the ASTM requirements for a BMX helmet.
• CE 1078 designation: Meets CE requirements for helmets intended for pedal cyclists, skateboarders, and roller skaters.

It's crucial to understand that these helmets are intended only for pedal cyclists and are not designed for motor vehicle use or other sports. While they provide protection, helmets cannot always prevent injury, and even low-speed accidents can result in serious injury or death. The helmet's polystyrene foam construction means there's a possibility it could be penetrated by sharp objects. Furthermore, the helmet offers protection only to the areas of the head it covers and will not protect the neck or guard against spinal or other bodily injuries that may result from an accident.

A key feature of some Bell Full Face helmets is the integrated camera mount. This top vent is designed to receive a camera mounting bracket. The manual specifies that the GoPro breakaway insert can be replaced with a Contour breakaway insert, or vice versa, by applying firm pressure to insert and unsnap it from the bracket.

Usage Features

Proper fit and positioning are paramount for the helmet to offer effective protection. The manual outlines a detailed process for achieving the correct fit:

1. Positioning:

• The helmet should be worn low in front to protect the forehead.
• It should not be worn tilted back on the head.

2. Fit Check:

• The helmet fits correctly when the padding holds it firmly in place, and the straps are adjusted, fastened, and tightened to limit movement.

3. Steps for Proper Fit:

• Putting on the helmet: Unthread the chin strap from the Double D-Rings, hold the straps out of the way, and then put the helmet on, ensuring it's positioned correctly.
• Adjusting the fit in the crown area: The padding should grip the crown of the head firmly and comfortably. To check this, look in a mirror and rotate the helmet; the skin on the forehead should move with the helmet.
• Fitting the cheek area: The padding in the cheek area should reduce side-to-side helmet movement and grip the sides of the face very firmly.
• Fastening the chin strap: Thread the loose end of the strap through the Double D-Rings as shown in the manual's illustration. Pull the strap until it is snug, almost uncomfortable, and positioned well back against the throat. The chin strap must always be worn in this position while riding.

4. Final Check:

• With the helmet on and straps fastened and pulled tight, try to remove the helmet from your head. It should be securely in place, and you should make a serious effort to roll it off your head by moving it forwards and backwards.
• If you can remove the helmet by rolling it backwards far enough to expose your forehead or forward enough to block your vision, the helmet is too large and should not be used. Replace it with a smaller size.
• If you cannot remove the helmet, but it does not roll backward far enough to expose your forehead or forward enough to block your vision, you have a proper fit.

5. Removing the Visor:

• Un-thread the chin strap from the Double D-Ring.
• Remove the helmet.

6. Adjusting the Visor:

• The visor is held in place by two screws.
• Loosen both screws, adjust the visor to the desired location, and then retighten the screws. An Allen key, flathead screwdriver, or coins can be used for this.

7. Removing the Visor:

• Take out the screws.
• Carefully pull the visor away from the helmet.

8. Attaching and Removing Camera Mount:

• To attach, snap the bracket into the top vent.
• To remove, press the button and slide out the top vent.

9. Test Ride:

• After ensuring a satisfactory fit, take an extended test ride.
• Immediately after the ride, double-check the positioning of the straps.
• If the helmet was comfortable, remained firmly in place, and the straps stayed properly adjusted, and the visor positioning is satisfactory, the helmet is ready for use.
• If any discomfort or adjustment issues arise, repeat the fitting steps. If the helmet cannot be adjusted to meet requirements or if other problems persist, do not use the helmet and replace it with a different size or model.

Safety Guidelines:

• Always check the adjustment each time the helmet is worn.
• Users should not remove original parts or change parts of the helmet, as this can hinder its effectiveness in protecting against injuries.
• The helmet has a limited lifespan and should be replaced when obvious signs of wear appear.
• Do not modify or remove any original component parts of the helmet, other than as recommended by Bell Sports.
• Do not adapt the helmet for attaching accessories, other than as recommended by Bell Sports.
• This helmet should not be used by children while climbing or doing other activities where there is a risk of hanging if the child gets trapped.
• Exercise care and good judgment while riding, complying with all traffic regulations.
• Be vigilant for drivers turning left and assume you are invisible to automobile drivers.
• Wear brightly colored clothes.
• Do not ride at night without proper lighting and reflectors.
• Watch for parked cars and sudden opening doors.

Maintenance Features

Proper care and storage are essential to maintain the helmet's protective capabilities.

1. Cleaning Your Helmet:

• Helmets are made of materials that can be damaged by many commonly available cleaners, especially petroleum-based solvents or cleaners. These can significantly reduce the helmet's protective capabilities, often without visible damage.
• For best results, clean the helmet using a soft cloth or sponge, warm water, and mild soap.

2. Storing Your Helmet:

• After each use, allow the helmet to air dry.
• Store the helmet in a cool, dry place. The original box is suitable for storage and transport.
• Excessive heat can damage the helmet. Direct sunlight, dark gear bags, and automotive trunks can get hot enough to cause heat damage.
• Damaged helmets due to heat will appear to have uneven or bubbly surfaces.
• WARNING! Do not use heat-damaged helmets.

By following these guidelines for function, usage, and maintenance, users can ensure their Bell Full Face helmet provides the intended level of protection and remains in good condition.

Bell FULL FACE Specifications

General

Chin Strap	Double D-Ring
Type	Full Face
Material	Polycarbonate Shell
Safety Standard	DOT
Visor	Clear
Ventilation	Adjustable Vents
Liner	Removable/Washable Liner
Weight	1500g