Age of helmets.

[smeghead]

I understand that you’re supposed to change a helmet at around 5 years. I bought a new one In 2015 and as it’s not been used for a couple of years I thought I’d clean it up before my new scooter arrives. Upon removing the inner liner to wash I found a date sticker, it was actually made in 2012, 3 years before I bought it. What actually counts here? The amount of time it’s been used or it’s manufactured date? If it’s the manufactured date then buying one already 3 years old is a bit of a scam.

[Eoin75]

Depends on the quality of the helmet, ie how much it costs, as I'm sure the cheaper ones you have to change after 2 years

[MrGrumpy]

I recall that Arai state something along the lines of replace after 5 years from when you bought it or 7 years from date of manufacture.

[Data]

Technically your helmet is done! Using it does accelerate its degradation process more quickly due to heat, sunlight etc. But even in the box they degrade but just take a bit longer so that's why it's generally 5 years when in use, 7 years from date of manufacturer if stored. Those are the general rules that apply if you want your head to have maximum protection.

[Jimo]

Not much in my head these days so the Shoei helmet I bought 2 years ago @ £400 should be good enough for a few more years - other circumstances permitting. When not in use it’s kept in an ‘Oxford ‘ bag.

Jim

[smeghead]

Looks like I'm going to be looking for a new one!

[SH125Paul]

Within reason, Time out the box, daily use...
then again alot of the mid price stuff has come a long way in 7 years, so worth something new...
Check out HJC... maybe a deal on last seasons designs, along as they have not been sat kn a box for a few years....
otherwise you are back to square one...

[mottza]

Wouldn't touch HJC after I found loose screws and blurred screws.

Nolan I find is a good fit and not too expensive.

[Stibbs]

My helmet is 63 years old. Still works for me