Got my Super 3R now just delivered to me. ☺️

Andrej Jasenovský Awesome! I’m glad to hear it helped!

Glad you enjoyed it!

Thank you! As are you! I totally look like an Imperial Scout from Star Wars! LOL! I love you Mom!

Thank you!

Awesome! Thank you!

Great! Glad to hear it helped!

AWESOME! Glad it helped!

Awesome!

Same

Nice! You won't regret it. I'm glad the review helped!

Thank you!

LOL, which one, he's talking about 2 helmets.....

@@hoptard I was talking about the newer of the 2 helmets. Super Air R. It's a great helmet.

How was the Leatt? I am considering mtb 3 vs Bell Air

That’s why I’m here! I love my leatt but the removable chin bar is a bit of a pain in the ass as one of clips in mine doesn’t align the best so kinda have to jam it in. The only negative I can see re the bell helmet is that it still has the old skool chin clasp as supposed to the Fidlock magnetic clasp which is a shame. But I will probably take mine off my old Leatt and put in on this

It’s EPS so as every EPS helmet it must be trashed anyway after a light crash. What’s the point of keeping it when the foam inside has already an hit? It won’t serve its purpose the next time. Epp liners is what you want when talking about multiple hits ;)

I'm leaving this before video finishes so he may cover it, but I've tried both and prefer the 3r, I couldn't find a size that fit in super air, medium wanted to slide up my head as I tightened adjustment knob, but with the large the the tiny cheek pads wouldn't touch my face, even after swapping to thicker pads. I went back to a medium 3r due to better fit and safer feeling, the super air felt like a chin bar on a bike helmet, the 3r felt like a light weight motocross helmet. Also the super air doesn't allow the fixture system to adjust to suit deeper heads like mine the 3r does, I think that's probably the reason I couldn't make the super air work

@@MrBrady691 I'm sorry to read that the Super Air didn't work for you. From what I can tell, the Air wasn't designed to use the cheek pads to help hold it in place. Instead, it's held in place via the ratchet MIPS system. In addition to increased air flow, this allows the helmet to float and rotate around your head during a crash (absorbing energy) rather than transferring it to your head/brain. This new MIPS design addresses the rotational forces that usually occur also. The 3R uses more padding to help with impacts, and it works, but it also means additional bulk and weight. I believe the Air was designed to counter that. In my humble opinion, the Super Air R offers a more complete and well rounded level of protection (addressing both impact and rotational forces) in a lighter weight package with increased ventilation. Any helmet is better than no helmet though and even though I personally prefer the Air, the 3R is still a solid option.

@@lonestarmtb6799 very well thought out response, I don't disagree, you seem to know a lot more about this than me, so perhaps it's just a problem with the shape of my head paired with the super air but any impact directly on to the chin bar would cause the bar to contact the face before slowing much, by the time all the mips system started to resist I would be 1mm from mouth contacting chin bar. My only other gripe was that I wear my 3r chinbar like a necklace while climbing, clipping it to itself at back, I couldn't see any easy way to do that with super air, perhaps there is an easy way but I didn't want to have to find another method. Thanks for getting back to me, again my complaints about the super air may be more indicative of an odd shaped head than a poorly thought out helmet

I'm not sure. I have not used an extension pole. I've only used a 3D printed GoPro chin mount from r3pro. The additional weight has not been a problem.

Hey, thank you! No, I don't hear any squeaking or anything. It's basically silent.

Thank you! The 3R is a fantastic helmet. I'm really diggin' the new Air too.

Thanks you! No, unfortunately I wasn't.

LOL! Those are my wife's books; she inhales them! 89 grams doesn't seem like much but it definitely feels lighter and less clunky than the 3R.

Thank you! Unfortunately, I have no personal experience with the Fox Proframe but, I have a few friends that use it and love it. Obviously, the removable chin bar being this biggest difference, the next major difference between the two is with their certification. The Fox is downhill certified whereas the Bell is not. If you don't need a DH rated helmet, than the Bell certainly is a great option because of all the feature boxes it checks, minus the DH rating. A removable chin bar is SO nice and the ventilation is fantastic; even with it attached! Oddly, the cheek pads don't even touch your face. I assume that's because of the design of the new MIPS system. The cheek pads seem intended for keeping the chin bar from cutting/scrapping your cheeks in a crash rather than helping to keep the helmet stable in your head. The new MIPS system wraps snuggly around your whole head like a ski cap would. For general trail rides, I wear the half shell and just strap on the chin bar when I'm looking for more protection. Personally, I own two helmets; the Troy Lee Designs Stage for moderate downhill and enduro races, and now the Bell Super Air R for everything else. I went with that TLD over the Fox because a friend of mine had a fairly light crash in one and the chin bar snapped. To date, I have not heard of any issues with the TLD. It breathes REALLY well for a full-face, DH rated helmet too. I hope this helped and answered your question. If not, please let me know and I'll be happy to answer any others you may have.

Lone Star MTB thank you very much for the great feedback. BTW, I was stationed in Texas (NAS Kingsville) back in the early 90’s when I was in the Navy. 👍🙂

@@SDPadre7 You're welcome! Thank you for your service!

Thanks for the kind words! My advice would be to get something that offers good protection and is comfortable to wear. Not only is it REALLY light and cool but, the Super Air R offers a lot of flexibility with the removable chin bar and sounds like it would serve you well. You can use it as just a half shell and then, as you progress, you'll probably be glad to strap that chin bar on. It's not downhill rated but you will get a significant amount of additional protection with that chin bar. A 2-for-1 if you will. I personally own 2 helmets. The Super Air R for everyday "trail" use and the Troy Lee Designs Stage for harder, faster, more aggressive days and enduro racing. Two different helmets for two different jobs. I hope that helps! Cheers!

I used the Super 3R and now the Super Air R for general trail rides (neither are DH certified). I wear the half shell and just strap on the chin bar when I'm looking for more protection. I also own the Troy Lee Designs Stage for moderate downhill (days at Spider) and enduro races. I have tried on the Super DH and found it to fit nearly identical to the Super 3R however, it is noticeably hotter and heavier because of the smaller vents and thicker shell needed for the DH certification. I hope that helps! Cheers!

I personally own 2 helmets. I use the Super Air R for everyday, casual "trail" use and the DH rated Troy Lee Designs Stage for harder, faster, more aggressive days and enduro racing because of the greater protection it offers. Two different helmets for two different jobs. If you're looking for a "one and done", the Fox Proframe may be a good fit. I hope that helps! Cheers!

The sizing is nearly identical although, the new Air R does sit on your head a little bit differently than the 3R did. I feel like the ratchet of the Air R sits lower and uses more of the base of your skull to hold the helmet in place verses how the Super 3R does. So, the shape of your head could play into sizing.

Thank you! I've never tried, so I have no idea. It looks like it comes off but who knows if it will go back on. It might break those tabs in the process.

Hi what happened with the visor removal attempt on the Bell Super Air Helmet?

is the 3R the helmet in your videos?

I was wearing the Super 3R but wasn't wearing the chin bar at the time of my accident.

That is a tough choice - You will be down around $115 bucks. Big price difference. You can find it for $160 at other site but Amazon its still $224.

Right!!

Thanks! I'm 57cm and wear a medium. According to the Bell website, a medium should fit heads with a 55-59cm circumference.

Scott

Hey, thanks for the question, it's a good one! I honestly, don't feel any less protected wearing the Air versus the 3R but that's partly because of what/where and how I'm riding. The 3R offers fantastic protection but, with the chin bar on in the Texas heat, it's CRAZY hot. The Super DH is even hotter. I choose the Air when the majority of my riding is going to be casual and average around 10 mph and on relatively flat ground. I wanted something cooler and lighter with the added protection of a removable chin bar because that fit the bill for my local trails. Your local trails may need something with more protection. All you can do is choose the best tool for the job. There's no way I would wear the Air to a DH park or an enduro race. I want more protection in that environment and at those speeds. I wear a TLD Stage for those situations and I wear the Air for the every day "lighter" duty days. You should wear whatever you feel the most comfortable, confident, and protected in. I hope that helps!

​@@lonestarmtb6799 Thank you so much for your detailed response! It helps to know what kind of situations you wanted to ride it in. I figured that the choice would come down to personal comfort and safety. For me, even though it gets pretty warm here in Pennsylvania (Pittsburgh area) and the coolness of the Air sounded perfect, I'm definitely going to be taking this on rougher, intermediate or higher trails in my local park (not a bike park). So, I'll probably stick with something slightly beefier. Thanks again for putting together such a detailed review and for sharing your opinion here. It really helped! Take care!

@@jekshmeck Please may I ask what helmet you chose at the end? thank you.

@@juliendufour4513 I went with the 3R. I use it when I do trails with technical or fast riding (which happens frequently when I ride my MTB). It’s hotter than a typical helmet, but I have no doubt that it will help me keep my teeth if I fall!

I was looking for this question, thanks for keeping the conversation going, I was going to upgrade from an R and want to progress on rougher stuff in hot weather so will probably go with something sturdier, maybe a TLD stage or one of the fox helmets.

Hey Doug! I got the same size as the 3R. The sizing is nearly identical although, the new Air R does sit on your head a little bit differently than the 3R did. I feel like the ratchet of the Air R sits lower and uses more of the base of your skull to hold the helmet in place verses how the Super 3R does. So, the shape of your head could play into sizing. The same size will likely work for you but, if possible, I'd suggest trying both sizes to be sure. The other option is to buy/order another medium and just do an exchange if necessary. I hope that helps; good luck!

I usually base my helmet choice on how fast the trail is and how much risk is involved. For me, the uphill isn't as much of a concern as the appropriate level of protection needed for the down. For the run, if it's mostly slow technical sections then I'll probably choose the Super Air. If they are faster or has steeper sections, I will use the Stage because of its added protection (DH rating). I hope that helps!

@@lonestarmtb6799 thank you!!

It depends on how you're intending to use it. Neither helmet is DH rated. For regular trail days, I find the Air to work just fine. Use what makes you feel the safest and most comfortable. Cheers!

Hey, thank you and great question! I have not taken the Air R to Spider. I always wear my Troy Lee Designs Stage out there. I bought it specifically for faster and riskier days like trips to Spider and enduro racing. I prefer to wear a DH rated helmet there as opposed to the trail rated Air R. We usually ride in larger groups and it can get fast and rowdy in a hurry. I'd rather just bring one helmet and be prepared for whatever the day is going to bring. I'd definitely recommend wearing a full-face even if it's not DH rated though. You'll be glad you had a chin bar if you crash. So, if the Air R is your only helmet, roll with it. But, if you can pick up a DH certified helmet too, that would be more ideal for places like Spider (in my opinion). I hope that helped and answered your question! Cheers!

@@lonestarmtb6799 that's kinda how I was leaning. I ended up going with the Bell Super DH since it's DH rated and has the removable chin bar. Their sizing seems to line up better with my waterhead as well. Keep making good videos and maybe I'll run into you sometime on the trails!

On the 3R I would have to adjust it occasionally but, on the new Super Air, I've had no issues. It stays buckled and tight all day.

@@lonestarmtb6799 ok, occasionally is not good enough, I need secure always.

@@mtbboy1993 The 3R would move. The new Super Air does not.

@@lonestarmtb6799 I haven't found it for sale yet, atleast not in 🇳🇴 it's always slow to the market. But I haven't checked if international shops have it, but I am still sold on double d ring buckle. And haven't decided which helmet I should go for. It needs to be dh sertified.

@@mtbboy1993 Ah ok. The Super Air R is brand new and was just released a couple of weeks ago here in the U.S. Neither the these helmets are DH certified. I use them strictly for general/casual trail riding and have a second helmet for DH duties.

Thanks for the question! I look at it as, the helmet is for your brain and the chin bar is for your face/teeth. When wearing the Super Air my cheeks do not touch the cheek pads either. With the 3R they do & it's fairly snug. I'm guessing this is due to the change in the MIPS system. When ratcheted down, the fitment of the Air sits and grips your whole head like a ski cap would. This allows the entire helmet to "float" around your head. With the 3R, I feel it fits more like a head band using the base of your skull & your forehead to hold the helmet in place; with the cheek pads of the chin bar it is even more snug. I think Bell designed the Super Air to "give" more during crashes. I assume, having more room in the cheek pad area allows the helmet more rotational movement (give). This should mean an even greater reduction of potential head/brain trauma that could've occurred with the previous generation of MIPS system which are more rigid. I hope that helps and makes sense! Cheers!

Yeah I returned mine for a DH, felt like it'd snap my jaw in a crash - terrible designing of the cheek pads

@@jimmymidson5393 yeah I returned mine, it kinda seemed pointless really. It's a shame it fit great as a half lid, just couldn't see it saving my teeth lol

@@jimmymidson5393 That's probably because of the design of the new MIPS system. They figured out a way to increase the level of protection to your brain and the airflow to your head and face. The tight cheek pads found in other models aren't needed in this design because of how they redesigned the new MIPS system to move. The new ratchet system "hugs" and uses your whole head for stabilization now rather than depending on the cheek pads so much. In other models, the cheek pads are used to help stabilize the helmet and use your whole head and face, right? With the Air R, the additional space in the cheek pads allows the helmet more room to absorb and give in a crash; lessening the hit your head and jaw would otherwise take. With tight cheek pads, your whole head and face takes the blow. Keep in mind that it's a trail helmet and it's not intended or designed for downhill use. The cheek pads seem intended for keeping the chin bar from cutting/scrapping your cheeks in a crash rather than being used as a stabilizing tool. Just my take on things.

You'll find that answer in the video at 9:16.

No, unfortunately not.

Thanks! I usually wear glasses but I have tried goggles and they worked great also!

Yes, it's great! The new MIPS design allows for the ratchet system to fit snuggly around your head while the helmet itself "floats" a little for better protection during glancing blows. Watch at 5:22 in the video.

I smashed the back of my head really hard on asphalt in a 28 mph Onewheel nosedive crash with the Air R, the outer layer cracked in multiple places but that's a good thing because it's absorbing energy.

I would think the large would be the correct size for you. The adjustable MIPS system has quite a bit of range. I am in-between a S and M and went with the Med. The small was a bit too snug as I also use a Halo headband to help wick away sweat. The headband also does a good job of taking up some of the extra space. I hope this helps!

@@lonestarmtb6799 thank you!

I don't know either; that's exactly how I use mine. Open face for casual riding/climbs and I put the chin bar on when I want the extra protection. Easy!

No

I wouldn't; too light duty for my piece of mind. With the speeds that can be carried on most of those trails, I would suggest a DH rated helmet. The Super Air R is not DH rated.

I wasn't wearing the chin guard at the time.

@@lonestarmtb6799 thanks!

I am! Thanks for asking! The 3R is a solid helmet but, if you live in a warmer region; from my point of view, yes, it's totally worth it. The better airflow alone makes this helmet SO much cooler and more enjoyable in the summer heat compared to the 3R. The thicker brow pad really helps to channel the sweat away from your eyes also. I feel like the weight reduction and updated MIPS system are bonus features. I hope that helps!

@@lonestarmtb6799 That really helps, thanks a lot! I have enjoyed your videos, you rip!

It's noticeably better with the Air; especially with the chin bar on and at any speed.

Squeak? I haven't heard anything squeaking.

@@lonestarmtb6799 Interesting... I've read and heard a few people talk about the foam on the inside squeaks like crazy. I'm on the fence right now. The Super 3r is $100 cheaper and probably a better helmet for Florida riding. Whats your input on that?

@@YourOwnAdventure Hmmm, yeah I've found the Super Air to be nearly silent compared to my 3R. My 3R's rear lock for the chin bar rattled & squeaked like crazy. Drove me nuts! Lol! What makes you feel like the 3R may be better for Florida riding? Wouldn't you want as much venting as possible with the typical heat & humidity there?

@@lonestarmtb6799 Oh man. Throwing a wrench into my decision. I figured that the 3r was a little more streamline but I guess the Air is lighter and makes it a better choice overall.... the extra $100 is really the biggest factor for me. Is it worth an extra 100 or so grams and DH rating?

@@YourOwnAdventure The Super Air is only marginally lighter but it's definitely cooler. The updated venting is substantially better on the Super Air. Neither the 3R nor the Air are DH rated.

I think because most people ride with their head angled slightly down looking at the trail. To get the sweat to channel to the back, you'd have to be looking too far up. I wear a Halo headband to help keep the sweat out of my eyes and glasses as well.

I haven't noticed any excessive movement. If you snap your head back and forth or grab the chin bar you can move the helmet around your head but, even with more aggressive movements, it's minimal. I think the helmet being so lightweight (less mass) really keeps it from moving around also. Your head acts like a gimbal while riding so that helps with the stability too. I hope that answered your question!

@@lonestarmtb6799 Great! Are you enjoying this helmet more than your Super 3 R? I was on the fence. Will be my first full face. Great review.

@@richardwebb3013 Yes. My 3R was great but, with the chin bar on it was REALLY hot. Especially during sustained climbs or in direct sunlight. I found myself hating to put the chin bar on because of this and the air flow was dismal unless you're carrying some moderate speed. I've had a completely different experience with the Air. I can wear the chin bar (all day) during the hottest parts of Texas summers and I'm no longer dying to take it off. In fact, rarely do I take it off once I've put it on. This also means I can carry a smaller hydration pack because I no longer need the additional space to stow the chin bar when it's become to uncomfortable to wear.

@@lonestarmtb6799 Perfect. One final follow up please. I have a 58cm size head. That is right at the tail end of the medium and start of a large. With Amazon I can return if wrong size. Is it better to go medium or large?

@@richardwebb3013 I'm in between sizes also (small & medium). I'd probably go large. If I remember correctly, I believe they ran a little small. Under my helmet I wear a Halo headband. Not only to help with sweat management but, also to take up some of the extra space found when sizing up.

I had a similar issue with the 3R. You can replace just the ratchet suspension system. I believe they have a 1 year warranty and I was able to get it warrantied through my local bike shop. You may be able to go through Bell directly also. I've done a crash replacement directly through Bell and they were great.

@@lonestarmtb6799 is it enough protection for fast street riding? Idk if it would hold up to hitting co Concrete

@@bf3forevergreene165 When you say "street riding", is it like freestyle BMX? I don't know, how fast are we talking? I wear mine for urban MTB rides. Personally, I would be comfortable wearing it at occasional speeds of up to 15-20mph. More than that, and I'm going to use a DH rated helmet.

@@lonestarmtb6799 I like to race around and weave around stuff going down hills and stuff so speeds would probably be max up to 30

Scott Prospect

Probably, but I'd suggest trying them first if you can. All goggles seem to fit a little different. I wear WileyX glasses with mine and have no issues.