The SmartLock™ Visor System: A Game-Changer in Motorsport Safety
Forget everything you know about visor lock technology. Traditional locking mechanisms often fail when it matters most—during high‑energy crashes. SmartLock™ changes the game: it stays securely locked under impact while remaining intuitive and easy to operate during normal use. It represents a new era of reliability and protection in motorsport helmet design.
Introduction to SmartLock™
The SmartLock™ visor system brings a significant evolution in helmet safety. While older systems can flex or disengage under stress, SmartLock™ ensures the visor remains closed and secure even in severe impact scenarios.
Why a New System Was Needed
As racing speeds increase and safety standards rise, visor security becomes critical. A visor opening unexpectedly during a crash exposes drivers to debris, flames, and impact forces. SmartLock™ solves this issue with a mechanism specifically engineered to resist crash‑level energy while maintaining smooth everyday operation.
Bell Racing’s Approach
Bell Racing developed SmartLock™ with a focus on safety, performance, and driver familiarity. By positioning the system on the side of the helmet, aerodynamics and ventilation remain unaffected, and drivers do not need to change their muscle memory. The result is a safer helmet that still feels natural to use.
Key Features of SmartLock™
Eccentric Button Mechanism
A simple, ergonomic button allows quick visor release when needed. It closes securely and locks automatically—no extra steps, no second guesses. Drivers can operate it instinctively, even with gloves on.
Impact Resistance and Validation
SmartLock™ has undergone advanced dynamic impact testing. In all test conditions, the visor remained locked and resisted flexing, preventing accidental openings. This reliability offers an extra layer of confidence for drivers competing in high‑risk environments.
SmartLock™ Meets the Highest Standards
Many helmets featuring the SmartLock™ system also carry the latest certifications: FIA 8859‑2024 and Snell SA2025. These homologations introduce more demanding impact‑energy, fire‑resistance, and durability criteria—ensuring helmets protect drivers in increasingly harsh motorsport conditions.
Understanding FIA 8859‑2024
• Stricter impact‑energy absorption tests
• Enhanced fire‑protection standards
• Improved Head‑and‑Neck (FHR) device compatibility
Understanding Snell SA2025
• Higher impact‑energy management
• More rigorous shell and liner durability evaluations
• Strong compatibility requirements for modern motorsport safety devices
Together, SmartLock™ and these certifications provide one of the most robust safety combinations available today.
Benefits for Motorsport Professionals
SmartLock™ gives drivers familiar handling with upgraded protection—consistency that matters when every second counts. The system’s reliability in accidental scenarios ensures the visor stays shut, protecting against debris, flames, and high‑speed airflow.
A Final Word
SmartLock™ is more than an upgrade—it represents a significant step forward in visor‑retention engineering. As racing evolves and safety standards advance, systems like SmartLock™ set new expectations for what helmets should deliver.
Explore helmets equipped with SmartLock™ and certified to FIA 8859‑2024 and Snell SA2025 standards at our dedicated landing page.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Ox1jLCrcHY
How does the SmartLock™ System work?
The system features an ergonomic, eccentric button mechanism that secures the visor automatically when closed. This design ensures that the visor remains locked under impact, providing consistent protection without hindering driver familiarity or performance.
What testing has the SmartLock™ undergone?
SmartLock™ has been subjected to advanced dynamic impact testing to ensure that it withstands high-energy impacts and flexing. The visor system has consistently demonstrated its ability to stay locked during these rigorous evaluations.
What certifications do helmets with SmartLock™ carry?
Helmets featuring the SmartLock™ system often carry the FIA 8859‑2024 and Snell SA2025 certifications. These certifications encompass strict criteria for impact-energy absorption, fire protection, and overall durability, verifying the helmet's protective capabilities.
What benefits does the SmartLock™ system offer to motorsport professionals?
For drivers, SmartLock™ provides enhanced safety without requiring changes to their muscle memory. The system's consistency and reliability in preventing visor openings during accidents offer crucial protection against debris, flames, and high-speed airflows.
Where can I learn more or purchase a SmartLock™-equipped helmet?
For more information and to explore helmets equipped with the SmartLock™ system that meet FIA 8859‑2024 and Snell SA2025 standards, please visit our dedicated landing page.
