The Bell Volt sits at the top end of the Bell range and is aimed at both road and mountain bike users. The helmet comes with a removeable visor (you will need to fit this for MTB use) which is colour co-ordinated with the helmet graphics. The test version we have been using is an attractive white/silver mix with a subtle cross hatch graphic effect accross the top sections fading to silver.

Bell Volt Helmet - Side view

The ventilation is superb with more than enough chanels to keep your head cool – the styling of these also being aerodynamic, flowing to the helmets rear which is one of the more attractive designs we have seen in some time. The large vents are strengthened by a silver weave of carbon type material which also adds to the attractive styling and reasures of the helmets strength – particularly when you consider its weight of only 350g for the large version.

Bell Volt Helmet - Front view

Padding is minimal in comparison to some other helmets but is comfortable, high quality and easy to re-position as desired or to remove for washing with its velcro attachments.

Bell Volt Helmet - pads

The straps are also easy to adjust with quick-release and lock adjusters and the material used to make the straps themselves has a quality soft feel to it. The rear of the Volt is adjusted with the usual dial closure making everything snug and secure.

Bell Volt Helmet - back

Fitting the peak for MTB use
To convert the helmet for mountain bike use you will need to remove the 2 black plugs on each side of it. They can be a little stiff, but you should be able to remove the plugs without too much effort.

Bell Volt Helmet - Fitting the peak for MTB use

Once the plugs have been removed the visor then simply snaps in place. The visor does not use any form of velcro fastenning to secure it as the two click in points seem to hold it in place very securely.

Bell Volt Helmet - MTB peak fitted

The verdict
Overall this is a fantastic piece of kit although you do pay for it. If you want a helmet that can quickly be converted from road to MTB use and look and perform well in both sports then this is well worth the outlay. Available in white/silver, red/white, blue/white, black/white and team Saxo Bank colours. The large version fits head size up to 63cm which is also good news for those with large heads! Performance alone would earn the Volt a 9 or even 10/10, but given the retail price of £149.99 we feel that it is a little too expensive to represent real value for money – especially with many good helmets fighting it out around the £70 mark. A great lid if more than a little pricey. Shop around for a good deal!