The new HJC Bellus 2 helmet combines a slippery aero shape with a huge array of 15 larger forward-facing vents that, according to HJC, provide heat management at 'normal' speeds.
Subtle channels on the front lip of the helmet are designed to aid evaporation from the brow pad.
Internal channels are intended to help circulate cooling air and push them through to the seven exhaust channels on the helmet's rear.
The Wind-tunnel development was centred on providing optimal ventilation at lower speeds, such as when riding steep, technical gravel climbs.
It’s not only the colourways that could make the Bellus 2 a great gravel helmet or option for bikepacking. There are subtle details too, such as the lightweight antibacterial straps with woven-in reflective details and subtle reflective logos that add some twilight visibility.
The included replacement brow pad integrates a semi-rigid soft peak to provide weather protection and additional brow-sweat absorption, too.
Added protection but not MIPS
Anti-rotational systems are essential in premium helmets, with MIPS being the most popular. MIPS isn’t, however, the only system and HJC has developed its own, called SLID.
SLID, or sliding layer impact distribution, is an X-shaped web structure in the crown of the internal surface that anchors to the helmet. This part has special GEL inserts that move in any direction in the event of an impact.
HJC claims this reduces the amount of energy impacted on the brain because the helmet moves independently, minimising the dangerous effects of rotational energy on the brain.
The rear cradle offers more than 6cm of vertical adjustment and the micro-adjust rotor enables plenty of horizontal adjustment.
The Bellus 2 is priced at £159.99 / €179, so it's very much at the premium end of the helmet market. It looks premium, too, with the EPS in-mould construction, which means the EPS core is bonded at the moulding stage with the polycarbonate outer.
The full EPS foam protection is intended to guard against accidental damage.
The Bellus 2 also gets a superb matt finish, lightweight straps and a quality magnetic Fidlock clasp that’s easy to operate single-handed and even when wearing thick winter gloves.
