SCOTTS VALLEY, Calif. (BRAIN) — Bell Helmets has launched its first road helmet to make use of the MIPS protection system. The updated Gage model is the fifth Bell-branded helmet with MIPS introduced since the company invested in the MIPS company last year, and it will debut at the Tour de France with the LottoNL-Jumbo team.
The Gage model was introduced in 2012. Its other features include channeled ventilation, a two-way adjustable Twin Axis Gear (TAG) fit system, moisture-wicking X-Static padding, and superlight, yet precise, buckles and Cam-Locks. It has 26 vents and weighs a 240 grams.
"The input from our athletes is invaluable to the design features we build into our helmets. Our conversations with Team LottoNL-Jumbo made it very clear that protection-related technologies ultimately have a direct impact on performance," said Azul Couzens, Bell's global category manager. "The combination of performance and protection is at the heart of everything Bell designs, and therefore, the addition of MIPS technology to the Gage was a clear choice for us."
The patented MIPS Brain Protection System was developed through a collaboration between Swedish engineers and a Swedish neuroscientist to address angled impacts and rotational forces to the brain. Concussions and brain injuries are often caused by rotational forces to the brain during an impact to the head. MIPS uses a low-friction layer on the inside of the helmet to absorb some of the energy created by angled blows to the head.
Since Bell invested in MIPS, the company has continued and expanded its licensing program and several other brands have added the feature.
The Gage with MIPS will be available in three sizes and is CPSC and CE EN1078 certified. It will be available in three colors: Black/Red Cadence, Tahoe Blue, and Matte Black Ombre. MSRP is $195 and it will be available at Bell dealers on August 1, 2015.
More information at bellhelmets.com.
