Does a helmets age matter?

[joshs74nova]

I recently came across a Suomy Roberts helmet for a great price. I mentioned to another dealer I was interested in ordering one, he said that he couldn't get one because it was too old, and I wouldn't want it anyway because of it's age. But he couldn't tell me why an old helmet was bad. If it's new, what could it hurt being 3 years old?

 

[joshs74nova]

http://forums.13x.com/attachment.ph...d37f3bda2c1f3&attachmentid=36824&d=1223523847

This is what the helmet looks like. I thought it would be very appropriate for a Buell.

 

[GatorBuell]

Yes, most manufactures suggest you stop using the helmet after you drop it or after (I believe) 5 years. The fibers and glue use in the manufacturing process starts to break down and the helmet my not be able to protect you in a crash.

 

[Trill]

time to chuck my lid!

 

[maybebuell]

Yes, most manufactures suggest you stop using the helmet after you drop it or after (I believe) 5 years. The fibers and glue use in the manufacturing process starts to break down and the helmet my not be able to protect you in a crash.

drop it ? like a drop off your handle bar drop fall out of you hand drop...that dont sound right

 

[scobbie001]

I'm just as guilty as anyone for dropping my lid a time or two, but yes, I've heard also that a drop from just three or so feet is enough to damage the foam inside the helmet. But...I'm too clumsy and too broke to go through helmets properly.

 

[Devlsmurf]

I knew about the dropping, yes even just from your handlebar..the inside of the helmet is designed to absorb and dissipate impact, even a short drop causes spiderweb likes cracks in the helmet seriously decreasing its effectiveness. I have never heard the 5 year rule, that one doesn't make any sense to me.

 

[Stevenc150]

Here's the MSF info on Motorcycle Helmets. It's in .PDF format. The Helmet replacement is outlined on page 4. It suggests a 4 year max. for replacement due to "deterioration of safety components" and that helmets keep improving every year. Not sure if I'll follow it, but figured I'd post. It also gives good tips on fitment and such.

MSF Helmet Safety Information

 

[joshs74nova]

Good source, thanks steven!

 

[Stevenc150]

Glad to help.