Originally Posted by
scroca
Michael,
Just out of curiosity, why do you need a new helmet?
Wondering 'cause mine is more than a few years old and I haven't thought of getting a new one.
The plastics used in helmets, can age and not work as well as a new helmet. At least that's what the manufacturers, distributors and retailers of helmets want us to believe. They say you should replace a helmet that is more then a couple of years old.
Probably a better argument for replacing a helmet that hasn't seen a crash, is that the fit adjustment technology changes over time, better placement of vents, more vents, and even if it hasn't seen a crash, most look a little shabby after a lot of use. Biggest argument though, helmets are not that easy to clean properly, they see a lot of sweat and oil, both of which can see some bacterial and/or mould growth. Was looking at mine today, figuring that this is probably the last season for it. Helmets that have been involved in a crash, where the head is involved, should be replaced, regardless of whether they have visible damage or not.