Bell 500-TX Classic Vintage Open-Face Racing Helmet

The Bell 500-TX Classic Vintage Racing Helmet brings one of motorsport's most recognizable open-face helmet designs back to life, combining authentic racing heritage with modern fiberglass composite construction and established motorsport safety certification.

Inspired by the legendary original Bell 500-TX, this premium open-face helmet recreates the iconic vintage racing silhouette loved by classic car enthusiasts, historic racing drivers, and collectors.

Certified to Snell SA2020 and FIA 8859-2015, the Bell 500-TX Classic features a fiberglass composite shell, removable racing peak, comfortable tan fire-resistant interior, and M6 threaded mounting provisions for compatible head-and-neck restraint equipment.

Finished in exclusive Bell Heritage White with a beautiful high-gloss appearance, the 500-TX Classic delivers timeless vintage racing style with the construction and protective features expected from Bell Racing.

Whether you're competing in historic motorsport, driving a vintage Formula car, or searching for an authentic period-inspired helmet to complement a classic racing machine, the Bell 500-TX Classic captures the spirit of motorsport's golden era.

Bell 500-TX Classic Helmet Key Features

• Iconic Bell 500-TX Heritage Design: Inspired by one of the most influential open-face racing helmet designs in motorsport history.
• Snell SA2020 Certified: Meets the Snell SA2020 automotive racing helmet safety standard.
• FIA 8859-2015 Homologated: Approved to the FIA 8859-2015 racing helmet standard.
• Fiberglass Composite Shell: Modern composite construction engineered for strength and impact protection.
• Traditional Open-Face Design: Classic racing appearance with a broad, unobstructed field of view.
• Removable Racing Peak: Included peak can be removed for different vintage racing configurations.
• Bell Heritage White Finish: Exclusive high-gloss white exterior inspired by historic motorsport.
• Tan Fire-Resistant Interior: High-strength, high-comfort FR fabric complements the vintage design.
• M6 FHR Mounting Terminals: Factory-installed threaded provisions accept compatible frontal head restraint anchors.
• HANS/FHR Compatible: Designed for approved head-and-neck restraint devices when appropriate anchors are installed.
• Four Helmet Sizes: Available in Small, Medium, Large, and Extra Large.
• Bell Heritage Collection: Classic styling manufactured using modern production techniques.

The Legendary Bell 500-TX Racing Heritage

The original Bell 500-TX helped establish the unmistakable appearance of the classic open-face racing helmet.

Its rounded shell, clean lines, and minimalist design became associated with the early generations of professional motorsport, when open-face helmets were a familiar sight in Formula racing, sports cars, and other competition vehicles.

More than half a century later, Bell Racing reintroduced the legendary 500-TX design for enthusiasts who appreciate the history and character of vintage motorsport.

The modern Bell 500-TX Classic recreates the original helmet's distinctive appearance while using contemporary manufacturing processes and materials.

For drivers restoring vintage racing cars or competing in historic motorsport events, the 500-TX Classic offers an authentic heritage appearance without relying on aging original helmet equipment.

Snell SA2020 and FIA 8859-2015 Certified Protection

The Bell 500-TX Classic carries dual motorsport certification to Snell SA2020 and FIA 8859-2015.

These certifications establish requirements for automotive racing helmet construction, impact performance, and related safety characteristics.

The Bell 500-TX Classic is designed for historic and contemporary motorsport applications that continue to accept these standards.

Important: The 500-TX Classic is not an SA2025 helmet. Racing organizations may establish different certification and open-face helmet requirements. Always verify the regulations of your specific series or event before purchasing.

Fiberglass Composite Shell Construction

The Bell 500-TX Classic features a fiberglass composite outer shell that combines traditional helmet styling with modern manufacturing technology.

Its construction is designed to provide impact protection while maintaining the distinctive rounded silhouette of the original Bell 500-TX.

The composite shell works together with the helmet's internal protective liner to achieve its Snell SA2020 and FIA 8859-2015 certifications.

Unlike decorative reproduction helmets, the Bell 500-TX Classic is designed and certified for qualifying motorsport applications.

Classic Open-Face Design for Maximum Visibility

The Bell 500-TX Classic features a traditional open-face configuration that offers a broad field of view and easy access to the driver's face.

The open-face design allows drivers to monitor their surroundings, mirrors, instruments, and nearby vehicles without the visual obstruction of a full-face chin bar.

This configuration also creates an authentic vintage appearance that complements historic racing cars and period-inspired driving equipment.

The Bell 500-TX Classic is particularly appealing for drivers who prefer a traditional open-face racing helmet and participate in events where this configuration is permitted.

Safety Note: Open-face helmets do not provide the same chin and facial coverage as full-face helmets. Always follow the safety requirements applicable to your vehicle and racing organization.

Removable Vintage Racing Peak

The Bell 500-TX Classic comes equipped with a removable racing peak.

The peak helps reduce overhead sunlight and contributes to the helmet's distinctive historic motorsport appearance.

Drivers can remove the peak when a different configuration is preferred or when permitted by event regulations.

Bell offers a compatible replacement peak kit separately for maintenance or replacement.

Always ensure the peak is securely installed before use and follow Bell Racing's installation instructions.

Exclusive Bell Heritage White Gloss Finish

The Bell 500-TX Classic is finished in exclusive Bell Heritage White, a timeless color inspired by classic motorsport helmets.

Its high-gloss exterior highlights the smooth, rounded shell design and creates an authentic vintage appearance.

Heritage White pairs naturally with classic racing suits, vintage Formula cars, historic sports racers, and traditional motorsport liveries.

The simple white finish also provides an excellent foundation for period-inspired graphics or professional helmet customization, subject to Bell's guidelines for approved paints and decorative materials.

Premium Tan Fire-Resistant Interior

Inside the Bell 500-TX Classic is a comfortable tan interior manufactured from high-strength, high-comfort fire-resistant fabric.

The interior color reinforces the helmet's heritage appearance while providing the secure fit and comfort expected from premium Bell Racing equipment.

The tan lining is especially appropriate for vintage motorsport enthusiasts seeking an authentic period-inspired presentation.

A correctly fitted helmet should feel comfortably snug around the head without excessive movement or uncomfortable pressure points.

Bell lists the tan interior as the standard configuration, with no alternative factory interior colors offered for this model.

M6 HANS and FHR Mounting Provisions

Although the 500-TX Classic has a vintage appearance, it incorporates factory-installed M6 threaded mounting terminals for compatible frontal head restraint anchors.

These mounting provisions allow appropriate HANS/FHR anchor hardware to be installed for use with approved head-and-neck restraint systems.

This is particularly valuable for historic racing drivers participating in events that require modern head-and-neck restraint equipment.

Important: The M6 terminals are included with the helmet. HANS/FHR anchor clips and related restraint equipment are separate accessories unless specifically included in a product bundle.

Always follow the anchor manufacturer's installation instructions and verify compatibility with your chosen restraint device.

Designed for Historic Racing and Classic Motorsport

The Bell 500-TX Classic is an excellent choice for drivers who appreciate the traditional appearance of vintage open-face racing helmets.

Its combination of historic styling, modern composite construction, and established racing certifications makes it particularly appealing for:

• Historic Formula Car Racing
• Vintage Sports Car Competition
• Classic Touring Car Events
• Historic Motorsport Festivals
• Vintage Racing Demonstrations
• Classic Car Track Events
• Period-Inspired Motorsport Collections

Event organizers determine which helmet certifications and designs are permitted. Verify eligibility before using the Bell 500-TX Classic in competition.

Bell 500-TX Classic Vintage Helmet Technical Specifications

• Manufacturer: Bell Racing Helmets
• Model: 500-TX Classic
• Series: Bell Heritage Series
• Helmet Type: Open-Face Racing Helmet
• Snell Certification: SA2020
• FIA Homologation: FIA 8859-2015
• Shell Material: Fiberglass Composite
• Exterior Color: Bell Heritage White
• Exterior Finish: Gloss
• Interior Color: Tan
• Interior Material: High-Strength, High-Comfort Fire-Resistant Fabric
• Alternative Interior Colors: Not Available
• Racing Peak: Included, Removable
• Replacement Peak Kit: Available Separately
• FHR Mounting: Factory-Installed M6 Threaded Terminals
• HANS/FHR Anchor Clips: Sold Separately
• Available Sizes: S, M, L, XL
• Primary Applications: Historic Racing, Vintage Motorsport, Classic Car Competition and Track Events
• Quantity: Sold Individually

Compatible Bell 500-TX Classic Helmet Accessories

Bell offers selected replacement parts and compatible racing accessories for the 500-TX Classic.

• Bell 500-TX Replacement Peak Kit
• Bell 500-TX Rubber Edge Trim Kit
• Compatible HANS/FHR Anchor Clip Sets
• Approved Frontal Head Restraint Systems
• Protective Racing Helmet Storage Bags

Always confirm accessory compatibility with the Bell 500-TX Classic before purchasing or installing replacement equipment.

Bell 500-TX Classic Vintage Racing Helmet Sizing Chart 

Bell 500-TX Classic Helmet Care and Maintenance

Proper helmet care helps maintain the appearance, comfort, and protective condition of your Bell 500-TX Classic.

Exterior Care: Clean the fiberglass composite shell using a soft microfiber cloth and helmet-safe products suitable for automotive finishes. Avoid abrasive materials, solvents, and harsh chemicals.

Interior Care: Gently clean the comfort padding with a soft cloth and mild soap and water according to Bell Racing's instructions. Avoid saturating the impact liner.

Drying: Allow the helmet to dry thoroughly after exposure to perspiration or moisture before placing it into storage.

Peak Inspection: Inspect the removable peak and mounting hardware regularly. Ensure the peak is properly secured before use.

Hardware Inspection: Check the chin strap, retention hardware, and any installed FHR anchors before each racing event.

Storage: Keep the helmet in a clean, cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight, excessive heat, solvents, and chemical exposure.

Bell 500-TX Classic Vintage Helmet FAQs

Is the Bell 500-TX Classic Snell SA2020 certified? Yes. The Bell 500-TX Classic carries Snell SA2020 certification for applicable automotive motorsport activities.

Is the Bell 500-TX Classic FIA approved? Yes. The helmet is homologated to FIA 8859-2015. Always verify acceptance with your specific racing organization.

Is the Bell 500-TX Classic an open-face helmet? Yes. The 500-TX Classic features a traditional open-face design inspired by the original Bell 500-TX racing helmet.

What is the Bell 500-TX Classic shell made from? The helmet features fiberglass composite shell construction designed for impact protection while preserving its vintage appearance.

Does the Bell 500-TX Classic include a peak? Yes. A removable racing peak is included as standard equipment.

Can I remove the peak? Yes. The peak is removable, allowing the helmet to be configured with or without it according to driver preference and applicable racing regulations.

What color is the Bell 500-TX Classic? The helmet is offered in Bell Heritage White with a gloss finish and tan fire-resistant interior.

Are other interior colors available? Bell lists the tan interior as standard, with no alternative interior colors available for this model.

Does the Bell 500-TX Classic include HANS anchors? The helmet includes factory-installed M6 mounting terminals for compatible FHR anchors. The actual HANS/FHR anchor clips are sold separately.

Can the 500-TX Classic be used with a head-and-neck restraint system? Yes. The helmet is designed for use with compatible approved frontal head restraint systems when the appropriate anchor hardware is installed.

What sizes are available? The Bell 500-TX Classic is offered in Small, Medium, Large, and Extra Large.

Is the 500-TX Classic suitable for historic racing? Yes. The vintage design makes it well suited to historic motorsport, provided the event accepts its SA2020/FIA 8859-2015 certification and open-face configuration.

Is the Bell 500-TX Classic the same as the original vintage helmet? The modern 500-TX Classic recreates the original helmet's distinctive appearance while incorporating later-generation protective materials and manufacturing techniques.

What is the difference between the Bell 500-TX Classic and Bell Star Classic? The 500-TX Classic is an open-face racing helmet with a removable peak, while the Bell Star Classic is a full-face helmet inspired by Bell's iconic 1970s Formula racing designs.

Is the Bell 500-TX Classic SA2025 certified? No. This model carries Snell SA2020 and FIA 8859-2015 certification. Always confirm that these standards remain accepted by your intended racing series.

Can the Bell 500-TX Classic be used on track days? Yes, when the event organizer permits open-face helmets and accepts the helmet's certifications.

Experience Authentic Bell Racing Heritage

The Bell 500-TX Classic Vintage Racing Helmet combines the unmistakable character of historic motorsport with the construction and protective features of a modern-era racing helmet.

Featuring a fiberglass composite shell, removable racing peak, exclusive Heritage White gloss finish, tan fire-resistant interior, and M6 FHR mounting provisions, the 500-TX Classic delivers a timeless combination of heritage and functionality.

For classic racing enthusiasts who appreciate authentic Bell styling, the 500-TX Classic offers a distinctive way to celebrate motorsport history on and off the track.