Aging helmets
10-05-08, 12:01 PM
#1
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Aging helmets
At what age should you toss a helmet? Does a bike helmet lose its protective qualities after three years?
Five??
Motorcycle helmets are supposed to be good for three years.
Five??
Motorcycle helmets are supposed to be good for three years.
10-05-08, 07:22 PM
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Contrary to what the LBS and helmet manufacturers may recommend, I read somewhere that helmets do not need to be replaced every five years*. The materials don't degrade or stiffen with age, or at least not enough to matter.
*Applies to helmets that have not been crashed and styrofoam helmets with a hard outer shell. Foam helmets with a fabric only covering (such as those made in the '80's) should be tossed out.
*Applies to helmets that have not been crashed and styrofoam helmets with a hard outer shell. Foam helmets with a fabric only covering (such as those made in the '80's) should be tossed out.
10-05-08, 07:42 PM
#3
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I replace my helmets when I get so tired of them that I'm willing to spend the $$$ for a new one. I'm cheap, so that only happens every 5-8 years. Then I keep the old one as a spare. I've got lots of spares! My newest one is only 2 years old.
