I picked up a vintage full face helmet for a song. I don't think it's ever been used, just a few minor scuffs. It fits me well and feels good. The Harley decals are under some sort of clear coat so they are original to the helmet. It is both DOT and SNELL approved. Now here is my question, do you think it would be safe to use and do its job if I crash? Here's the kicker, there is a tag on the inside that says it was manufactured January, 2000 so it's over 14 years old. Thanks.

 

I've heard differing opinions. If unworn, some say the styrofoam keeps its integrity.

Others say it looses it after 5 years or so even if unworn.

Is there a manufacturer tag to contact the maker and ask? Or maybe you can contact Snell?

Vintage fulls are cool looking, IMHO.

 

....still reeling over the fact that something that was made in 2000 is being considered vintage.

 

LOL, you are probably right. How 'bout "vintage looking", compared to the full face helmets of today?

 

Bell makes new vintage looking full face helmets. Why even buy it unless you collect old helmets?

 

 

Military soft body armor is rated for 5 years unless impacted with a bullet or shrapnel. I'd say it's perfectly fine for use, worst case flip it on Ebay and take the profits and buy a current date helmet.

 

Manufacturers will tell you that the material in the helmet that absorbs shock will deteriorate after 5 years. (They also want you to buy a new helmet) When getting my road race bike tech inspected prior to a race, I would not be allowed on the track if the helmet was older then 5 years. That being said, I have worn helmets that have not been banged that were older then 5 years. I am not saying that was the safest thing to do and do not recommend it. It is your head.... How much is it worth? BTW, look at the Bell line of helmets. I just picked up a Bell 500 with very cool metal flake graphics on sale for a little over $100. They have some great retro styled helmets

 

It is pretty plain compared to today's helmet. It's just smooth and it probably doesn't have any vents.

I agree with SoCal. If it's not worn and it was kept in a climate controlled environment, I'd think it'd be okay. A dealer would say it's shot to hell.

 

Thanks for the replies. I just picked this up because the price was next to nothing and I thought it looked cool. The helmet I normally wear is a Bell 500. This one might wind up as a decoration in my garage.