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Even though Bell is probably much better known in motorcycling than in the MTB sector, the reasonably priced 4Forty Air Mips definitely has its place in our test. The helmets from the US head protection experts come with plenty of style but also with extensive features.
Great equipment at an affordable price
So you get the Bell 4Forty already with the higher quality Mips Evolve Core Rotation protection, a magnetic Fidlock buckle and automatic height adjustment in the neck. The visor can be adjusted in three stages and snaps neatly into place in any position. A goggle gripper is attached to the rear to prevent the goggle strap from slipping.
Rather rare in current MTB helmets: adjustable ear dividers. We think this feature is great because it allows the helmet straps to be optimally adjusted to the wearer. Last but not least, the Bell 4Forty also has an antibacterial pad, which is available as a spare part, just like the visor screws.
>> You can find an overview of the 15 bike helmets tested here: 15 MTB helmets tested: how safe these MIPS helmets for trail and enduro are
Excellent customisation system
On the head, the Bell 4Forty is particularly appealing thanks to its well-designed adjustment system. The height of the circumferential headband can be easily adjusted in three stages, the rubberised dial is easy to reach in any position and also has a very defined grid. The Y straps can be positioned neatly under the ears, the strap is easy to move and the magnetic buckle is very intuitive to use.
The Ionic padding is really very comfortable to wear. So everything is fine? Not quite: if the straps were attached to the inside of the helmet, the Bell would sit a little more firmly on the head. In addition, the neck support is a little hard and angular, which can be uncomfortable over time. But apart from that, there's really nothing to criticise.
The visor can also be easily adjusted while riding and, in the top position, not only offers optimum space for goggles. Sunglasses can also be easily transported in the ventilation slots during long uphills.
The Bell 4Forty Air in the lab
It goes without saying that the Bell 4Forty fulfils the current CE standard. However, if you take a closer look at the values, the Ami only lands in the midfield - both in terms of rotational forces and linear impacts.
The values of all tested helmets at a glance
With its small ventilation openings, the 4Forty already looks rather closed and this is also reflected in the ventilation. The Bell was not able to convince us here, it only provides a little cooling on the rise.
Info & price - Bell 4Forty Air Mips
- Price: 149,95 Euro >> available here
- Weight: 379 gram
- Sizes: S 52-56; M 55-59; L 58-62; XL 61-65
- Made inChina
- Colours: 12 colours
- Rotation systemMips Evolve Core
- EquipmentFidlock buckle; automatic height adjustment; adjustable visor; goggle-compatible; adjustable ear dividers; antibacterial padding
Measured values
- Residual force on linear impact: 123,4 g
- Risk of concussion: 28 %
Evaluation and conclusion
Apart from the pure laboratory values, in which the Bell falls behind, we have to take up the cudgels in favour of the stylish 4Forty Air Mips: The handling and adjustment system are excellent. The Bell can be adjusted extensively, the rubberised dial is easy to use and has a clean grid. The magnetic lock is also great at this price. Sunglasses and goggles fit well under the visor. The weight is okay. The only downside is the moderate ventilation.
Stefan Frey
Editor
