The first Bell bicycle helmets were sold in 1974, and they were the most successful of the few bike helmets on the market in that era. Three decades have not been wasted on Bell: Today's Bell helmets are lighter, more comfortable, cheaper, and more protective than that first Bell model.

The Reflex is Bell's most affordable helmet, and it's sold through Wal-Mart. You don't get a long list of features for seven bucks, but the most important feature you do get is that it's certified to meet the crash protection standards of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Despite the fact that this standard is government work, this is actually a very good standard, building on standards work previously done by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM).

The Bell Reflex has an attractive pewter gray color that does not shout "cheap helmet." You'll fit right in with people who have paid far more for their helmets.

You don't get a visor or an easy-adjust strap system. Expect to spend 20 minutes adjusting the helmet straps to fit your head when you first buy it, and don't lend it out unless you want to go through the fitting exercise when you get it back.

Pros: Good injury protection certified by the CPSC, good cosmetics for the price, excellent value.
Cons: Takes time to adjust for proper fit.