The Bell TX501 open-face motorcycle helmet is a step up from the iconic Classic 500 model, incorporating updated “velocity flow” ventilation and a drop-down sunshield as modern conveniences while maintaining its nostalgic jet-era silhouette.
The TX501’s interior is an intermediate oval shape, with primarily synthetic leather liner finished in a gorgeous distressed brown hue. The material is perforated for breathability and quite plush to the touch. The liner and neck roll are all easily removed for washing. There are cutouts for standard 40mm speakers as well, should the rider want to install a communicator unit. A Euro-style micrometric buckle closure is widely adjustable and ensures a stable fit.
The shell material is fiberglass composite, and it has an aesthetic lineage tracing back to 1954 – arguably the most quintessential profile of any three-quarter helmet design. The Bell features four shell sizes (XS/S, M, L, and XL/XXL) for a precise fit and a healthy variety of classic color schemes to pick from. The Rally Gloss Black/White paint on my test model is rich and glossy, complementing the superb overall fit and finish. The TX501 comes with a clear Class 1 drop-down faceshield, which actuates via tabs on both left and right sides. There are no detents – it’s either all the way up or all the way down. An Extra Dark Smoke shield is also included, and the shields swap out with no tools required.
Out on the road, the TX501 was the perfect companion to my Vespa GTS250ie for bouncing around town. Weighing in at only 2.8 lb, my size Large model was comfortable and well balanced after many hours in the saddle. Ventilation is great, with an oversized 3.25-inch exhaust vent out back quickly disposing of incoming air. Most of the airflow is channeled over the crown, providing effective cooling on those scorching summer runs.
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The Bell TX501 meets both DOT (in the U.S.) and ECE (in Europe) safety requirements, with MSRP starting at $329.95.
Undoubtedly a cool looking retro helmet….I love it. But I would never wear anything less than a full face helmet and I hope the reasons are obvious.
Nice, but is it like most Bell helmets? A round shell configuration? Not an oval or long oval shape?
Hi Steve
I have an “intermediate oval” head. My favorite fits are Arai and Shoei, for reference. I’d say the Bell is slightly “rounder” than the premium Japanese brands, but not enough to be uncomfortable for me. It’s a very subtle difference, at least on my head.