Discarded Helmets
Road Captain
Joined: Feb 2013
Posts: 652
Likes: 7
From: Maui, Hawaii
I would deep six it - Why would I let someone wear a helmet that I wouldn't trust? And how would I feel if they needed the protection and were badly injured because it's structural integrity was compromised due to age.
"He Who Lives in Joy Does His Creator's Will".
The Baal Shem Tov, Founder of Chasidic Judaism... ca 1750's
"He Who Lives in Joy Does His Creator's Will".
The Baal Shem Tov, Founder of Chasidic Judaism... ca 1750's
Road Master
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 909
Likes: 29
From: Indiana
I never really thought about it but I have replaced helmets when the foam gets funky from too much sweat. I don't get why someone would sell or donate a safety product they no longer believe to be safe.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 6,532
Likes: 132
From: SoCal
I doubt that any of them would burst into flames if not replaced in some timely manner... <g>
However, I do think it's reasonable to replace one that's 5-6 yrs old if for no other reason than the known processes degrading the shell and liner. My past discards have always ended up in the trash bin.
After all, as has been pointed out in numerous helmet threads here, it's my head that I'm protecting -- and after totalling two bikes (and walking away each time IMO because I was wearing a good helmet) I'm a bit cautious.
However, I do think it's reasonable to replace one that's 5-6 yrs old if for no other reason than the known processes degrading the shell and liner. My past discards have always ended up in the trash bin.
After all, as has been pointed out in numerous helmet threads here, it's my head that I'm protecting -- and after totalling two bikes (and walking away each time IMO because I was wearing a good helmet) I'm a bit cautious.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 6,470
Likes: 4
From: on the road
i used to keep them-------use them as spares in a s@m game a fat neighbor woman liked.some booze several buddies in helmets.When she was ready she stripped and we had to spear her with our helmets.It was sick and she would bruise up and welt but she really got off on it----------no I never asked why.I just supplied the helmets,and sometimes the booze
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2012
Posts: 4,719
Likes: 60
From: Los Angeles
I just do what the manufacturer recommends. They start to smell bad around that time anyway. 
And, it's an excuse for a new helmet.
The old ones make nice flower pots.
And, it's an excuse for a new helmet.
The old ones make nice flower pots.
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