I replace my helmet every 2 seasons whether it needs it or not.
My question now is on manufacturer date. The model I use hasn't changed. The helmet I want, I can pull one off the shelf at my local sponsors shop which was manufactured on 10/04.
OR, I can have them order a new/current production helmet of the same style/version.
The difference will be about $50 as the sponsor has more incentive to get rid of old stock on the floor.
Does it realistically make much of a difference if I get a lid that has been sitting around unused (environmentally controlled area) over one made in the last few months?
Jeff, I wouldn't think it should matter but I am no expert on the subject. I would think that if it was stored in a controlled climate, it should not matter how old the mfr date is. IMO
you can send it to the mfg. and they will inspect for you as well.
I think most people agree 5 years is the age to replace a helmet in regular use that hasn't been dropped.
You're replacing every two anyway, so I'd think the one on the shelf should work just fine.
Thanks guys. I was kinda thinking the same, and also thinking that we (me or the shop) really can't control the mfr date on a helmet ordered, so I might end up getting something just as old...
Some organizations, like AHRMA, I know, check the manufacture date.
I think, like tires, how it eventually "works" can be related to exposure to UV rays, etc.
Really, it all depends upon how much you value a $50 discount. It might not make a difference, or it might.
The $50 isn't really the issue. I'm going to get this brand/style of helmet. If I can take the one that's on the floor collecting dust vice making them keep it there, I'd prefer to do that as a favor to them. However, I don't want to compromise my own safety in the process. Hence the question...
WERA has/had a rule that you can't wear a helmet that was manufactured more than 5 years ago, and they checked it at tech. I just checked the new CCS rulebook and it says nothing about the age of the lid in the Rider Equipment section, so in that regard I think you're fine.
I wouldn't think a helmet would go bad sitting on the shelf somewhere. My understanding is that the two things that cause a helmet to fail are 1. an impact/crash that uses up the foam liner (we all know they're designed to absorb all the engery from a single crash), and 2. the liner literally starting to disinigrate from age. I can't imagine an '04 lid that's been on the shelf it's entire life would have a problem with the liner deteriorating.
Cleez, that was my thought too... no radical element exposure, no sweat in the helmet, no impact, it should be just as good as a current month lid.
Thanks everyone for comments.
QuoteI replace my helmet every 2 seasons whether it needs it or not.
Yep, me too. That means my current helmet is 50 helmet years old and I havent even had it for two years yet. A helmet year is 36 human years. :P
All good info to consider, especially when looking at ebay's "New in the box" auctions. Never thought to inquire about manufacturer's dates. ;)
At VIR last year someone in tech was checking the date in helments and talking about a five year rule, but nothing in the rule book states that.
Nothing in the rule book says you can't wear Wilson's leather at the track either..... but there needs to be an ounce of common sense in the rider.
Dave (or anyone), also, I would be VERY cautious about buying an auction helmet. There are a TON of counterfeit lids out there, and you never know what you're going to get. A few bucks is worth the peace of mind...
I purchased my Arai from the local dealer in 03, he order it from his supplier. The year inside the helmet is 2000. So I should replace this because its 5 years old?
Dave, it's up to you on replacement. For me, a 5 year old helmet that has been in use for 2+ years is one to put on the mantle...
there are several orgs that do check the dates on helmets and will not pass them if over 5 years old. besides if you've used it for 2 then hang it on the wall and brag about not crashing in it. :o