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helmet lifespan

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Old Apr 9, 2009 | 03:20 PM
  #1  
BEN-Z's Avatar
BEN-Z
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Default helmet lifespan

Hi guys,I've been using same helmet for almost 3 yrs now, do you think I need to replace it get a new one, I've heard the helmet lifespan is good only for 3 years to get maximum protection, is this right.

Thanks
 
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Old Apr 9, 2009 | 03:39 PM
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WillieC
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I have a SHOEI that is 5 years old and I still trust it .
Unless you have been in an accdent, dropped it from a high place
onto something like concrete I would guess it would be fine.
I give mine a visual inspection for cracks or the interior becoming
too old or coming apart.
I always figure that it is good business for helmet companies
to have us replace our head gear as often as possible.
But if you feel safer replacing it then I would replace it.

IMHO
WillieC
 
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Old Apr 9, 2009 | 03:47 PM
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I can't imagine a helmet becoming unsafe with age................. if it has not been physically damgaged, I would't care how old it is.

But I do believe newer, lighter and tougher helmets are being developed. There might be some out there that you would like and be safer than the one you have, but I'm sure yours is a safe now as when it was new.

Dennis
 
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Old Apr 9, 2009 | 03:51 PM
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ShooterSteve1953
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I have read the same age limit somewhere but it probably depends on many factors. The materials used for the inside may break down over time and lose their cushioning depending on how it was stored. I get bored with mine so age is not usually an issue.

Would love to hear from an expert on this subject.
 
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Old Apr 9, 2009 | 04:04 PM
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SSN711
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Up until two years ago when I moved, I still had my candy-blue helmet I got brand new in 1970. I used it on and off up until 1990 when I bought a new Sportster and just decided to get a black helmet to match the bike. Nothing wrong with it (inside was still good). I now own a HJC SYMAX 2 modular helmet, a 3/4 with shield and a 1/2 helmet. Varies when I use them.

I guess a helmet will last as long as you want it to. Of course, newer helmet technology keeps improving and if you want to wear a helmet it probably pays to upgrade as newer advances are made that you want.
 
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Old Apr 9, 2009 | 04:24 PM
  #6  
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I had mine for a year, but it fell off the bike and bounced off the concrete 3 times, so I played it safe and got me a new one.
 
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Old Apr 9, 2009 | 04:33 PM
  #7  
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I bought a new Vetter full face helmet back in the late '80's. I've worn it on and off through the years (I live in Illinois so I have a choice). The helmet is still in great shape. I ride a lot of time without a helmet too, so I figure that if an older helmet has deteriorated somewhat structurally with age, its still better than none at all should I have an accident. Maybe once the money tree in my back yard starts to bear fruit again I'lll get another skid-lid.
 
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Old Apr 9, 2009 | 05:34 PM
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I've dropped both my 1/2 & 3/4 helmets from seat of bike to concrete/asphat in last year since purchase. Still trust both since it's better than wearing nothing.......... I have no plans on purchasing anything new in the near future. Your call.
 
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Old Apr 9, 2009 | 05:42 PM
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i think they say 3-5 years but there is something about a new one. you must want one lol
 
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Old Apr 9, 2009 | 07:22 PM
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Well I do know that they don't last more than 20 years.

I put on my old Bell helmet a few years ago. The foam padding had deteriorated. It left little black chunks all over the top of my head and ears.
 
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