Bell Qualifier: Lightweight Seasonal Helmet

The Bell Qualifier is a lightweight, DOT-approved, full-face polycarbonate motorcycle helmet available in three shell sizes. Unlike other helmets at its price point, it features a quick-release shield, integrated Sena communicator port and an industry-leading five-year warranty. Weighing in at only 3.28 lbs, its removable/antibacterial liner fits both round- and oval-shaped heads (labeled as "intermediate oval") using minimal contact points.

Four easy-access vents give riders exacting control over internal airflow. The sleek external contours work to all but eliminate buffeting. While perhaps not the best option for cold-weather riding (solution: buy a balaclava), this motorcycle helmet is the perfect summer go-to.

But then I really just like it because the "go fast" stripe adds ten horsepower(s) ...

You might notice in the video above that I tinted my visor. Bell offers a Transitions® version of its shield. Exposed to direct sunlight, the viewport shifts from fully clear to UV dark in under thirty seconds. There's no need to stop and change lenses, put on sunglasses or even reach for a switch to flip down some interior component. This motorcycle helmet reacts on its own, clarifying all that's ahead while keeping you in motion.

Bell Qualifier Durability, Sizing And Tech

Let's talk "polycarbonate" for a second, though. These aren't your standard plastics. They're an engineering-grade, thermoformed polymer that's as resistant to impact as it is to high temperatures. In the case of our Bell Qualifier, its molecular mass strikes just the right balance for a motorcycle helmet. You can geek out more on the science of it here.

The company's shell-sizing chart for these helmets is adaptive. Small equates to XS/S. Medium envelopes M/L. Large points to XL and beyond. Those figures are particular to the shell, not the padding within, which you can fine-tune via whatever internal padding you select.

As for the Sena port, riders will either find it to be a perfect solution or of no use at all. If you're game to limit your audio to an internal speaker setup, all you'll need is their separately sold internal adapter. I myself prefer using Plugfones, so my com installation went a little differently.

Bell Helmet Warranty, Weight and Ergonomics

One can't ignore Bell's five-year warranty. That's better than most manufacturers in the game. Said warranty information is available on their website.

The Qualifier's weight captured our attention as well. This thing really is light as a feather! Oftentimes that can affect buffeting (head shaking wildly in response to oncoming gusts). In this case, the helmet completely nullifies such behavior. It would seem somebody bought a wind tunnel and got to testing their products.

Regarding the liner, I should mention that (with proper attire) this is a great seasonal-riding helmet. The contact points within create a sort of shiatsu effect, making the helmet always feel lifted or as if some spatial separation exists between your scalp and its comfort padding. This "Vulcan mind meld" sits pretty soft but will beg for removal every hour on the hour.

Ventilation on the Bell Qualifier is better than great. Two switches above the forehead get the air moving a little or a lot. You can open a visor-specific intake near the chin and another vent just above the brow provides a more direct face-aimed breeze. That's four adjustable outlets, total. Because the helmet "floats" above contact points, even minor airflow adjustments are significant.

The Bell Qualifier: A "Best" Backup Motorcycle Helmet?

For the price, quality and features, Bell really knocked it out of the park with this one. While I still prefer my Shoei for long-distance touring, the Qualifier is my new favorite for local rides and forum rallies. Of course, we bought two.

I've even gone ahead with the Sena communicator installation, though I've abandoned the speakers/earbuds combo for helmet-friendly earbuds alone. Transferring my Sena system to any of my helmets isn't a hassle anyhow, so adapter or not, buyers will be satisfied. We certainly are.

Bell motorcycle helmets, such as the Qualifier, make a great MSF range helmet, I might add. They "look cool" to new riders, a positive influence in support of wearing a helmet. At the same time, Bell's competitive pricing makes it a little easier for motorcycle instructors to "wear, ride, remove, coach" with little concern for timely wear and tear.

What's Your Favorite Motorcycle Helmet?

There are a lot of great helmets out there. Which do you prefer? What do you like about it and why? Your input is invited. Leave a comment and/or write an article!