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Helmet Replacement Question

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Old Mar 9, 2007 | 12:21 PM
  #1  
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Default Helmet Replacement Question

Does anyone know ifa helmet should be replaced every few years?? I took the MSF class a few years ago and seem to think they mentioned that after a few years the part of the helmet(inside foam, etc)that actually protects you, starts to deteriorate. I'm not talking about the liner.Thanks.
 
Old Mar 9, 2007 | 12:35 PM
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Default RE: Helmet Replacement Question

The claim is that the helmet expires 5 years from date of manufacture.
 
Old Mar 9, 2007 | 12:35 PM
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Default RE: Helmet Replacement Question

The information that I have been given is that the foam gives out after about 5 years. Not that it gets soft or anything... it just doesn't meet the DOT standard after that time. Foam is basically an uncured product. Over the years it continues to cure. Once it is fully cured... it does not have the "bounce" they require anymore.

I have replaced mine every 5-7 years.
 
Old Mar 9, 2007 | 12:41 PM
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Default RE: Helmet Replacement Question

5 years from the date stamped on the label in the helmet. they say.

 
Old Mar 9, 2007 | 12:54 PM
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Default RE: Helmet Replacement Question

Wow.
I had no idea.
Thanks
Scott
 
Old Mar 9, 2007 | 12:59 PM
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Default RE: Helmet Replacement Question

5 Years maximum and if you are lucky enough to ride in weather with high UV levels all of the time then 3 years. If you drop it or give it a substantial knock get rid of it straight away and get a new one
 
Old Mar 9, 2007 | 01:00 PM
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Default RE: Helmet Replacement Question

I've also been told to replace a helmet after it's been dropped. Like after it's fallen off the bike onto asphalt, even though it looks ok. Could get expensive.
 
Old Mar 9, 2007 | 01:53 PM
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Default RE: Helmet Replacement Question

Every time you trade bikes especially if you change color.
 
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Old Mar 9, 2007 | 02:47 PM
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Default RE: Helmet Replacement Question

Every couple of years seems to be the way to go, if for nothing else besides the technology in manufacturing should be 5 years ahead of where it was when you bought the helmet, resulting in a better fit and protection.

When it comes to a saving a few bucks where your head is concerned, it's not a real good tradeoff. Put off the chrome purchase for a while and get another helmet if you have any reason to question how good your current lid is.
 
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