Bell Sports Creates Safety Legacy
Bell Sports started its journey in 1923 as Bell Auto Parts in Bell, California. Roy Richter bought the store in 1945 for $1,000 and transformed it into a pioneering helmet manufacturer[2].
Innovation Drives Development
The company’s first helmet, the Bell 500, emerged in 1954 through collaboration between Richter and naval pilot Frank Heacox. They created a revolutionary design featuring a polyurethane foam liner inside a hand-laminated fiberglass shell[2].
Safety Milestones Shape Industry
Bell’s commitment to protection showed early results. In 1955, Cal Niday credited his Bell helmet for saving his life during a crash at the Indianapolis 500. The company introduced the first full-face motorcycle helmet in 1968 with the Star model, followed by the first full-face off-road helmet in 1971[2].
Modern Technology Advances Protection
Today’s Bell helmets incorporate MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) technology. This slip-plane design works with EPS foam liners to reduce rotational forces and prevent brain injuries. The Bell Star helmet earned top safety ratings from Australia’s independent testing team[2].
Corporate Evolution Continues
Vista Outdoor acquired Bell Sports in 2016. The company maintains its focus on innovation while integrating with other brands. In 2023, Bell began consolidating operations with Fox Racing to strengthen its market position[2].
The company’s legacy of safety innovation continues through its current product line, maintaining the founding principles of protection and quality established by Roy Richter over 70 years ago[2].
Citations:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bell_Sports
Bell Sports is an American bicycle and motorcycle helmet manufacturer. The company is a subsidiary of Vista Outdoor. BRG Sports, owner of Riddell football helmets, sold some of its brands (including Bell, Giro, C-Preme, and Blackburn) to Vista in 2016.
 | |
| Formerly |
|
|---|---|
| Company type | Subsidiary Private (1923–80) |
| Founded | 1923 |
| Fate | Merged to Riddell in 1980 to form "Bell-Riddell", then other mergers |
| Headquarters | United States |
Key people | Roy Richter |
| Products | Bicycle and motorcycle helmets |
| Parent | Vista Outdoor |
| Divisions | Motorcycle Bike |
| Website | bellhelmets.com |