Helmet replacement...

[wcw]

I bought my Arai Signet GT in 2002 and I'm aware Arai suggests replacing after 5 years. I've never dropped my helmet and have taken great care of it to where you'd never know it was from '02. I've read up on the 'net and Arai's web site about reasons to replace at the 5 year mark, but I'm curious how many of you actually do? I've found a guy through Ebay who sells them pretty cheap so I'm debating....hmm, new helmet or new CRG clutch/brake levers to match new clutch cover/springs!

PS. The Signet GT is now the Profile and unfortunately I don't like any of the designs...would have to settle with a solid. I've the Black/Silver Carr replica. If there was a really cool design I'd be more inclined to splurge...

[derby]

i buy a new helmet every year or two and they get shelved at the 5 year mark.

[29649]

My helmets tend to be ready for the next life after five years of me using them, not five years from their born-on date.

Some track groups want a five year or newer helmet to pass gear inspection.

So my thought is that it's time to start thinking about it, but I wouldn't run out and buy new based on date alone for a 2002 helmet. Date is one consideration but not the only one.

[Nytebreed]

It's not BS intended to sell helmets.
Over time the sweat and oils from your head will degrade the foam inside the helmet between the helmet and the shell. It's that foam that provides the majority of the impact protection in the crash, the shell is more puncture/abrasion resistance.

[j.davis]

HD reminds you that it's "Check Your Helmet" Month
Posted by Staff
Friday, 28 March 2008
Harley-Davidson Encourages Motorcyclists to Get Their Helmets Ready for Riding

MILWAUKEE (March 27, 2008) – As the motorcycle riding season gets fired up around the country, now is the time to make sure helmets are ready for riding. During April’s “Check Your Helmet Month” and throughout the year, motorcycle enthusiasts are reminded to follow a few simple rules to make sure their helmets are ready for summer riding:

Fit is vital – a helmet must fit properly to be effective, and not all helmets fit the same. A good fitting helmet should rest one inch above your eyebrows and shouldn’t roll forward or sideways on your head. To ensure a comfortable fit, wear a helmet for 15 minutes before making a final buying decision.

They don’t last forever – manufacturers and the SNELL Foundation recommend helmets be replaced every three to five years, depending on use. Glues, resins and other helmet materials break down over time and can make a helmet less effective. Every new Harley-Davidson helmet comes with a “purchased on date” sticker that can be placed under the comfort liner for a quick reference.

Keep it clean – a clean and well cared for helmet will protect better and longer. Use a mild soap to wash the outer shell and internal liners. Never use solvents or chemicals for cleaning as they can destroy protective coatings.

Mirrors are not hangers – hanging a helmet on a motorcycle’s mirror can damage the impact absorbing liner inside.

[wcw]

I hear all this stuff, but does this mean even if it's not worn regularly (every week, or every month even) is it's shelf life still maxing at 5 years??

Well, manager at local Cycle Gear made me a heck of a deal on a new helmet...sooo...no brake/clutch levers! lolz

[chipazzo]

I've heard that the polystyrene (IIRC) used in the firmer portions of the helmet starts to break down after a point.

[s4grrr]

i've only just shelved an rx7rr3, bought in 97!! and it still looks almost new. the 5yr thing is an average to accomodate varying types of use/misuse care etc.
if it was out in the sun everyday, 5yrs is a maximum, period. yes sweat and body oils will have an effect on the polystyrene but if you remove and wash the liner (some you can, some you can't) it will help.
if you drop it, replace it! regardless of how it "looks", the impact will flex the outer shell and deform the polystyrene liner that is supposed to absorb energy in a tumble.


paul.

[onespeedpaul]

regardless whether or not it *looks* new, the reason replacement is recommended every 3-5 years is because the inside is basically fancy styrofoam and DOES degrade 3-5 years from date of manufacture to an unsafe condition.

ever broken up a styrofoam cup and poured a couple drops of gasoline on it? seen what it does?

gasoline and any other solvent fumes are just as harmful.

leave your helmet on op of your gas tank overnight and you've probably just lost a few months of it's life, leave it on top of the tank over winter and the insides will literally fall out in the spring. yes, i know from first-hand experience. [cheeky] [cheeky] [cheeky]

[fwtcc]

So on the drop it and replace it talk. If the helmet is sitting on the bars and falls off you have to replace the helmet? Wow. Me and my polish brethren will really half to dole out some green. Haven't dropped this helmet yet but I have only had it since December. It'll happen.