How Often Do You Think One Might Need A New Helmet?

[zordflea]

I'm on the second set of liners for my helmet. I'll probably change my helmet after 3 years of using it every day.
Some higher quality helmets do last longer than others. But if I had the money, I'd buy helmets the way my wife buys handbags...

 

[Kill Kitty]

I always thought the lifespan of a helmet was due to the Styrofoam-type material in the helmet because that is what takes the energy of an impact (along with the shell) and after about 4-5 years that material becomes more brittle and less effective at dissipating the energy. I would say that in an arid, sunny environment your helmets will age even faster. I replace mine about every 3 years because I buy them about a year after they are released (on closeout.)

 

[beigecardy]

Good work thread - I bought a new helmet yesterday. My current one is 18 months old, and needs new liners at least. Also I realised I need one without camera mounts all over it if I want to do some track days.

and I felt like spending some money.

 

[thunderous71]

Great thread, but hate it at the same time... I now realise its time for a new helmet More bills!

 

[Sweet & Sour Andy]

I have always been of the belief to replace it after 4-5 years of wear, depending on how you look after it. I never hang it off my mirrors as the edges will cause squashing of the foam inside. Always wash the material insides and wipe out to remove any abrasives that may get in there ie; dust, dirt, sand....

I guess the big thing is.... Do you feel safe with it? it's your head, if you want to replace your helmet every month because you feel safe doing so then go for it, if you want to wait a couple of years, do so. I wouldn't; however; wear a helmet for any more than 5 years as the oils in your hair will degrade the performance of it structurally.

 

[OlliePrice]

Honestly, only if it is dropped or used in an accident.
I wouldn't buy a £500+ Shoei helmet and only use it for 5 years. My helmet was £130. My friend who rides an R1, his cost £90. If I was replacing it every 2 years, I'd buy a £60 box helmet.

 

[Lurch]

Well, all helmets reach a minimum standard, so tje £40 MTL or the £700 Schuberth are no different in that respect. When you pay more you get better lasting materials, but where does the crossover happen between budget, good and premium when it comes to longevity?

 

[AndyManCam]

I usually replace my helmet when I realise that I hate something about it.

Sadly this time the hatred has reached boiling point long before the money box has filled up enough for a trip to the shops!

 

[ReggiewithTwoGs]

I would say every 2 years. That's always been my philosophy.

 

[AndyManCam]

Good work thread - I bought a new helmet yesterday. My current one is 18 months old, and needs new liners at least. Also I realised I need one without camera mounts all over it if I want to do some track days.

and I felt like spending some money.

I did a track day with MSV recently with 2 Drift mounts on my helmet. Nobody seemed to care. They just said that I couldn't have the camera on there. So it wasn't because they didn't see the mounts either!!

 

[revvinrav]

I usually just wash my inner liner and cheek pads like twice a month

 

[RealRider]

My Speed R warranty card says it is good for 5 years unless damaged.

 

[flybmw]

i have like 9 helmets. i change or buy a new one every 6 months to 1 year. thats personal preference tho.

No comments. Sick )))

 

[Lurch]

If you wear your helmet daily and take it on and off several times in a day then it will need replacing more often.

 

[CBRHoonigan]

Everytime i see a nice new shiney design i like too many helmets isnt that bad right

 

[AndyManCam]

Hells no! I'm the same. If I had my way I'd have a separate helmet and leathers wardrobe right next to her shoe cabinet in the hallway!!

 

[CBRHoonigan]

id of taken over her shoe cabinet for extra helmet storage

 

[AndyManCam]

WOW! how big are your Mrs' feet?!

 

[CBRHoonigan]

she works part time as a clown so pretty big...

 

[SwissMotard]

If you wear your helmet daily and take it on and off several times in a day then it will need replacing more often.

You only need to replace the inner lining, which is far cheaper than a new helmet.