Mips technology gets competitionHJC Bellus 2 helmet comes with SLID technology

Matthias Borchers

 · 26.03.2026

HJC Bellus 2 road and gravel helmet
Photo: HJC
HJC Sports is expanding its range with the Bellus 2, a new helmet for road and gravel bikes. Developed in the wind tunnel, the road helmet is designed to impress with very good ventilation even at low speeds. Instead of mips, HJC has opted for SLID technology, which is designed to reduce rotational forces and thus lower the risk of concussion. The equipment includes a Fidlock magnetic fastener.

Topics in this article

HJC Sports developed the Bellus 2 in the wind tunnel with a focus on ventilation at normal riding speeds. According to the manufacturer, large open ventilation openings should guarantee heat dissipation on climbs and at lower speeds. The helmet is aimed at racing cyclists, gravel bikers and bikepackers.

Safety and ventilation

Next-generation SLID pads (Sliding Layer Impact Distribution) are located in the upper helmet area. These are designed to reduce the risk of concussion from blunt and rotating impacts. The pads also serve as padding between the helmet and the scalp. The "COOLPATH" system is designed to interrupt the flow of air over the head less than other technologies.

Channels on the front edge of the helmet support evaporation from the forehead pad. The forehead pad can be replaced with a soft, removable peak, which provides additional sun protection.

Equipment and availability

The Fidlock magnetic fastener enables quick opening and closing, even when wearing gloves. The Ionic+ antibacterial straps have reflective details. The helmet offers extended side coverage for gravel use. The wind channel development was aimed at minimising noise.

HJC Sports will be supplying the Bellus 2 in seven colour variants from the end of April 2026.

Technical data

  • Safety technology: SLID (Sliding Layer Impact Distribution) pads
  • Ventilation system: COOLPATH with large open ventilation openings
  • Fastener: Fidlock magnetic fastener
  • Straps: Ionic+ antibacterial with reflective details
  • Accessories: Removable soft visor
  • Special feature: channels on the front edge for sweat evaporation
  • Range of use: road bike, gravel, bikepacking
  • Colours: 7 variants
  • Price and availability: 179 euros, available from the end of April 2026
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Matthias Borchers is an expert for clothing and accessories in the test department of TOUR. As an amateur cyclist, he has completed the TOUR-Transalp and the TOUR-Trans Austria. His reportage trips from San Francisco to Sakai and 17 trips to the Tour de France with around 30,000 motorhome kilometres are also formative.

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