The history of Bell – from the first hard helmet to a cycling legend

In the beginning, everything looked like an ordinary small business in the town of Bell, California. In 1923, Bell Auto Parts was born in a modest garage. Two decades later, the doors of this garage were opened by a man who forever changed the concept of safety – Roy Richter.

Richter was obsessed with speed and adrenaline, but also with protecting the people who ride. After losing friends in racing accidents, he decided that the helmet should not just be an accessory, but real protection. Thus, in 1954, he created Bell’s first helmet. Legends say that just a year later, this helmet saved the life of a racer at the "Indy 500". From that moment, trust in Bell began to grow exponentially.

Soon after, the Bell 500 TX appeared, the first helmet to receive certification from the Snell Foundation – the new organization setting the highest safety standards.

In 1968, Bell made history again with the Star – the first full-face helmet in motorcycle racing. It completely changed the perception of safety.

When bicycles enter the game

1975 is a year that will forever remain in cycling history. Bell introduced the Bell Biker – the first commercially successful hard-shell bicycle helmet with EPS foam. For that time, it was a revolution. Until then, cyclists relied on soft leather "hairnet" helmets that were more decorative than protective. Bell changed everything – safety was now the top priority.

The evolution of protection

After the success of the Bell Biker, new models followed. In 1983, the V1-Pro appeared – the first racing helmet with EPS foam, which became a favorite among professionals.

Shortly after, Bell also thought of the little ones – in 1984, the Li’l Bell Shell was released, specially designed for children.

This was also the period when Bell began introducing new technologies – lightweight materials, improved ventilation, and shapes that no longer looked like heavy armor but as part of a true racer's gear.

From the garage to the world

In the 80s, Bell was no longer just a helmet brand – the company also offered bicycle accessories: lights, racks, locks. But helmets remained the heart of the business. Every next step was marked by one mission – to make riding safer without sacrificing the feeling of freedom.

In 1991, Bell split its business – motorbike helmets remained a separate division, while the bicycle division became Bell Sports Inc., expanding the range with accessories: locks, lights, racks, and more.

Today