PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: BELL CUSTOM 500 MCQUEEN HELMET

Hollywood legend and motorcycle icon, the late Steve McQueen, was selected to represent the United States at the 1964 International Six Day Enduro race (ISDE). And photos from that event of the number 278 Triumph TR6SC, rocking a Barbour waxed-canvas jacket and a Bell helmet, have been cemented in motorcycle folklore.

The oozing style of McQueen has been emulated more than 60 years since, with the first in a series of Bell Helmets (produced in partnership with the McQueen Estate) paying homage to the original King of Cool.  

“Bell is excited to partner with the McQueen Estate on this iconic helmet,” said Simon Fisher, Category Manager at Bell. “As the first name in helmets, it only makes sense that Bell collaborates with the McQueen Estate on bringing to life the Six Day racing replica. This collaboration represents a golden era of motorcycling that both McQueen and Bell helped shape.”

The Custom 500 is inspired by the first production helmet in 1954, but with a modern spin. An oval design and low-profile fit give the helmet a smaller look with the same retro style. “Steve” is scripted across the back, adding a unique touch to the Custom 500, while a period-correct 510 visor and additional 278 decals add a little spice in that retro flavour.

“My dad loved riding motorcycles more than anything,” said Chad McQueen, son of Steve McQueen. “Much of my childhood memories with my dad revolve around motorcycles. We loved going on two-wheeled adventures together and I’m thrilled to see this helmet come back to life, considering my dad and I always wore Bell helmets. Celebrating my dad’s passion for motorcycling and his role as an ambassador for off-road racing, my kids and I couldn’t be prouder of this partnership.”

“Motorcycling has long been a part of the McQueen legacy,” said Molly McQueen, granddaughter of Steve McQueen. “So many iconic images tied to my grandfather’s legacy include motorcycles. This is a special opportunity to honour his memory through a hobby that is so deeply linked to who he was.”

The McQueen 500 Bell helmet would be at home in any collector’s cabinet, but we couldn’t let the thing sit there and gather dust. The Custom 500 is built for chasing sunsets, flat-landing scramblers and letting your jacket fly in the breeze!

COLOUR: Blue/White

RRP: $249.95