[dsn_klr650] helmet age

[Les Hall]

on 4/9/00 1:21 PM, Jeff Earle at rearle1@... opined:

> Anyone got some info on how long a good helmet is good for? I heard that you > should get a new one every few years because they materials will break down > with age and won't be as effective. I have a HJC FG9 that is 7 years old but > in great shape.

What I have heard is that you need to worry about the foam insert and the fabric rather than the exterior. If you go to the Snell foundation at http://www.smf.org you can find all kinds of interesting facts about helmets & safety like this.... "Why replace helmet every five years? The five year replacement recommendation is a consensus position from both the helmet manufacturers and the Snell Foundation. Out gassing of glues which can dissolve liner material, general liner deterioration as a function of hair oils, and body fluids, and normal "wear and tear" all contribute to helmet degradation. Additionally, experience indicates there will be a noticeable improvement in the protective characteristic of helmets over a five year period. Thus, the recommendation for five year helmet replacement is a judgment call stemming from prudent safety philosophy. " I personally wouldn't use a helmet over five years old. You can get a nice Snell/DOT HJC for about $130. Be safe, Les _____________________________________ Two men, two motorbikes, too much tea http://www.leshall.com/davles.html