Hi tmf, I design and install bathrooms and I am recommending that everybody should change their bathroom at least every 3 to 4 years due to wear and tear! thank you! please call for a free quotation!!!! I think this 5 year thing has been made up by bikers trying to convince the other half that they need a new helmet, it certainly worked for me, showed her the cold facts on line and 2 days later we were on our way to the new helmet shop, perfect
+Danny Bannister Like it....in fact I just tried this very technique and it too seems to be working for me :0) If only we could come up with the same evidence for bikes self disintegrating after a couple of years.....
I save loads of money by making my own helmets. In the past I've used a bucket with eye holes cut out, a pressure cooker, a condom stretched over my head and painted with metallic paint and a lampshade.
I'm working on a theory that if new helmets could perhaps have integrated helium gas filled canisters that would have an attached activation cord to the handlebars which in the unlikely event of an accident would simply fill surrounding helmet air bags with the helium gas thus lifting the rider skywards on impact and avoiding (with the exception of overhead power lines and low flying aircraft) any injury at all. I am willing to call this device "TheMissendenFlyer" upon your approval and your subsequent testing (of course). To bring the rider back down to Earth the rider would simply use the attached straw and slowly suck out excess helium gas resulting in a very humorous voice which I feel may lighten the mood of any confrontation with involved annoyed road users. I feel this would be especially valuable and agreeable in the event of a multi motorcycle pile-up as all riders descent from the sky and have to exchange details etc. Oh and keep your helmet (for now) Yours, Lord Hepcat of Great Glen.
+Hepcat Harley I am liking that thought sir! Would also make for some cracking you tube coverage and may count towards my log book hours each year, maybe????
Indeed Sir, yes an elevated view of any situation would be invaluable to insurance brokers and with your flight experience I am feeling very confident.
+Florida Outdoor Adventures Thanks as ever for your kind words - I will be keeping this for probably another 2-3 years (providing I don't "use" it!) - it would be a different matter if I commuted on my bike and wore it every day....
Great video mate. I've had my present helmet for 3 years & always start to look into a new one at that stage. This has made me think though. Cheers, Al. 😉👍
Great video and points well made. I have just checked the age of my Arai on the chin strap and it shows 09/08 so over 9 years old. I am a weekend rider and there have been years when I have not used it at all. It is still in excellent condition inside and out so will not be replacing it any time soon. Took your advice and am now the proud owner of a 2008 Street triple, love it.
Good video and a lot of information. Maybe do a review between open & closed faced helmets with a video on how to check to see if the helmet is a correct fit or not as a lot of shop staff haven't a clue.
The manufacture date is more important than when it was purchased, all helmets have the manufacture date on labels inside the helmet (even my 1994 Shoei had one), and in the case of later Arai's it is stamped on the metal D ring buckle. Many helmets have been in stock for 2/3 years, I recently bought a Shoei ADV helmets, from a local dealer, I divided the asking price by 7 (presumed life) and multiplied that by the remaining years, and offered that to the retailer, who after after a short discussion, accepted (it's always worth a barter).
Couldn't agree more with the points you made in this vid. In the last 4 decades, I've been in wrecks twice that bounced my noggin off the pavement. In both, I was wearing quality helmets (Shoei & Arai) that were far over 5 years old and both had seen a lot of action. In the Arai wreck, it was a full face and I simply bounced the side of the helmet off a curb while basically just falling to earth in a low side. It got damaged enough to replace and I wasn't the least bit fazed. In the Shoei wreck, it was a 3/4 helmet and we bounced down the about 50 meters or so after T-boning a deer at 60 mph and flying thru the bike's windshield. Pretty much every bit of that helmet was damaged. Again, I didn't even get my bell rung. People worry a lot about face injuries in open face, but I think you would really have to have a peculiar wreck that allowed you face to kiss pavement. With an inch of padding around your head, your face is recessed far enough that unless you chin plant, the helmet is going to hit first and bounce before your face touches. Even with the visor obliterated, my face was as pretty after the crash as before it. OTOH, lower quality lids may require more frequent replacement, not necessarily for more severe degradation of the impact bits, but because the lesser construction will probably cause the thing to start falling apart by then.
I would differentiate between compound plastics and thermoplastics. Like you I have a background in aviation, and have had lovely flights in decades old gliders made of glassfibre. As they still sit in the dark most of their lives, the resin that binds the fibres is in perfect shape and as strong as on day one. Thermoplastics do vent off their softeners which makes the material turn brittle over the years, so I fully understand that there is the need to replace them in steady intervals.
Great video, loved it :P found it surprisingly entertaining and informative (though also surprisingly, when I bought my last helmet the dealer told me all of this :O) but they're super good. I bought the shoei neotec (flip able qwest), was going to go for the qwest but I like the flip front and the neotec had some better reviews at the time, I find both are super good, was told them two specifically, that they'd last 2-5 years depending how much you use them. :)
+semaj eeb ....Glad you enjoyed it, thanks for the kind words. How do you find the noise level on the Neotec? I might consider one of those when my Qwest does finally have to go.....
Great video, thanks for making it! On the premium vs budget question, surely they all pass the same tests? So it's a question of materials - make sure the premium really has longer lasting construction. I like my 10yr old HJC modular, it looks & fits fine so no plans to change it.
I still use my Toy Lee design Shoei xbr1000 from the mid 2000’s. It only done a couple of thousand miles a year on European trips as I use a Schubert as my daily lid. I’ll be using it for years to come as it’s still a great product.
+DervMan Ha haaa, glad you spotted that - just a poor attempt at keeping a solid talk to camera a bit more interesting (could have done with a few more actually).....
My old helmet earned keepsake only status years ago. But now that I am looking to start riding again, I have been shopping the DOT/ECE and DOT/Snell rated helmets. Being a bit older and vain I want something comfortable and good-looking. The cheapskate in me doesn't want to spend more than about $250. Regardless of what I finally get, I plan to keep it 5-7 years unless it saves me in a crash. My first helmet stayed pretty fit until about 8-10 years old, but then the foam and liner both let go. My sons had been using it while riding their bicycles on the street in front of our home. It seems a full face motorcycle helmet had a greater "cool factor" that any of the neighbor kids' new bicycle helmets. Especially when they found that the visor closed automatically (by design) if you rode fast enough. Thanks for the info and opinions.
I keep mine out of sunlight when using and look after them always ,hjc RHPA10 is dated 2012 it gets weekend use looks new do dings or chips .I have 2 other hjc helmets for daily use too.
Thanks for the review. The industry says five years, but I'm a cheap so that seems like a lot to me, (keep reading to the end). Replacement also depends on how much you wear it, the conditions you wear it in, and how much you sweat in it. If the inside gets loose because the padding is matted down, then replacement sounds like a good option. I wouldn't believe the industry very much if I didn't have the following personal experience. I'm a skier and have several ski boots, some older. A friend told me that the ski boot plastic shell breaks down over time, I didn't believe him. Then one day I was pulling the liner out of an older premium ski boot and the shell just disintegrated, crumpled into pieces. I was shocked. Anyway things do degrade over time. Something to take into consideration, and make you think a little. Thanks.
I had the same experience: my ski boot literally exploded ! So I came to the same conclusion as yours. To put the helmet onto my head I have to pull it a bit open on the sides, meaning I apply constraint on it each time I have to put it on or to remove it, meaningI accelerate the ageing process of the material structure. It definitely has to be replaced every 5 or so years.
You said your ski boots are made of plastic. Plastic - even a good one - hates low temperatures, it becomes brittle really fast. My helmet spends 90% of it's life in around +23C. These are totally different circumstances.
Great video TMF! I agree with your skepticism on the "5 year rule", especially when it comes to premium quality helmets like the one you have there. I personally own a Shoei Neotech (around the same price range as yours), and as long as I can keep it in good condition (I don't go offroad with it+not crashed with it+good storage when not being used) I think it should really live up to 8/9+ years. But like you said, it comes down to some common sense and judgement. After all, when it comes to saving your head, there are no shortcuts.
+Ace Teller Yes it's a tricky one isn't it - manufacturers do have that vested interest and these things aint cheap...but what price do you put on keeping your head in one piece??! Cheers for watching - TMF
Your facial expression at 02:04 was hilarious! I've always been a bit sceptical about the 5 year replacement recommendation too. Like you mentioned, it would be helpful if there was some data available that provided conclusive proof of degradation, but I imagine there are so many variables involved, it would be hard to provide a simple answer.
+gizzmo84 indeed, hence why this really comes down to your own judgement. My face may have been hilarious but never the less appropriate I thought! Cheers for stopping by....
I was considering getting a new helmet, one that has a higher viability factor, than the black one I currently wear. The black helmet seems to blend in low light and at night time. I did add 3M reflective tape to the back and sides of the black helmet.
A very nicely done video! I liked the different camera angles to increase attention! :-) Very slick! I''d replace a Helmet every 3 years if I used that helmet every day / time i rode... If I had 2 helmets, and shared them out equally, I'd probably swap both after 6 years, simple maths... But everyone has a different view on how much they ride / use their helmets, so this is such a subjective topic as we all have different views on not only how we use our helmets, but for how long and in what weathers... For example, should it be a time related change, or a distance related change? Weather and temperature related or speed and therefore windspeed related... Just thought I'd add a few other views! It's just so personal... Up to you dear boy!
+Captain Rambunctious Thanks Skipper! ....glad you spotted the camera angle do dah, just attempting to make a piece to camera seem a little less tiresome, what! Completely agree with your conclusion though, a bit like economics, too many variables to really get a handle on it....
I wonder about helmets kept in storage. I sold my bike a year ago and have the helmet packed away until I decide what next. Reckon the materials - glues, liners, etc, deteriorate over time? I'd hate to have to get a new one when the current one is in good nick, but after a couple of years without use I'm not sure how safe it'd be.
Great topic, thank you! I've often wondered about how long to keep using the same helmet. I had a Shoei neotec, which I still use occasionally, but have bought the Shoei Adv which I now prefer! I guess I am in the buy premium and keep longer team.....though you are spot on, it would be good to have some test results to go on! Maybe there is someone from Shoei listening!
+Sconce Hill ...the trouble is, if it were Shoei presenting the information (or any other manufacturer) I would tend to be sceptical! Thanks for stopping by - TMF
Good timing this TMF. My wife bought me an Arai for my 50th and it's my 55th in a few weeks time. This time around I've decided to keep it another 12 months; the fit isn't quite as snug as it was 5 years ago, but as it's still as new, it'll do. PS: In my humble opinion, the Arai is a great helmet, but it's a bit noisy. I think it's down to the side pods. Another quality vlog 👍🏻
+SBKPete Cheers SBKPete - good to hear from you again. yes the fit has gone a little with my Shoei, I'm thinking some new cheek pads maybe all it needs to restore it back to its former glory....
Another great video as always! I am in full agreement with you. I to believe that PPE should never be skimped on as it could be the difference between life and death, or at least serious injury. While I still do not yet own a motorbike ( I am a full time Engineering Student), I apply this to other things such as protective work wear or my bicycle helmet.
+George Illing Thanks George, glad we concur, and yes, as a general principle, skimping on safety due cost is not a great idea.....thanks for stopping by, all the best - TMF
Hi TMF - I too have a Qwest, nice lid. I'm quite attached to mine (which I'm sure is a common sentiment) and will be sorry to see it put out to pasture when the time comes, especially if it looks in good order!
So my 1989 Arai F1 Kevin Schwantz replica might be a little old? It doesn't creak and the sponge part of the lining falls out as dust whenever I pick it up. I take it out of the wardrobe every now and then to look at and caress it. Mmmmm
I recently replaced my helmet after 5 years, and the new one is definitely different. It has a completely different strap on it (which seemed to be a new standard as most helmets had it) and a flip down sun visor. Similar price.
I clean my helmet after every ride [no chemicals] and hand wash the removable innards innards if they get dirty every few months. I also wear a snood to keep the innards as clean as possible
Nice video, as usual and some interesting thoughts. I ride a lot and I tend to replace my helmet when it 'feels' like it needs replaced. I do replace check pads and the like, but there comes a point where the helmet just doesn't feel right and that is when it gets replaced. I tend to use Shoei and they last me about 3 years. Based on that subjective view, if I didn't ride as much, I would happily keep a helmet for more than 5 years.
I have an AGV, I bought in 2002. wore it for three or four months it was then stored in its bag in my loft, its spotless. If I had used it every day for five years it would have been exposed to all manor of nasty's, whereas mine has no exposure to UV or any chemical but being 15 years old I couldn't really trust it though. Thanks for all your vids.
I don't understand why Snell wouldn't have results from testing five year old helmets to substantiate their recommendations. It was Snell that developed the criteria for certification to their standard. If they or the manufacturers are interested in backing that recommendation they could easily run the same suite of tests and determine the degree of deterioration, or whether the helmet which previously passed, now fails to pass. Beyond that, the determinant is whether the fit has changed as pointed out here or if there is cosmetic damage.
+Richard Jarvis Indeed I agree, seems a bit of a glaring hole not having data to back up the 5 year recommendation.....thanks for stopping by, all the best - TMF
Hi TMF, I have a Shoei GT Air which I've had for two years and used a lot as I commute to work by bike most days. It still feels as good as when I bought it and still using the original visor which I clean with baby wipes. It can be difficult to judge degradation when you use something regularly, but my view is as long as it looks fine and not involved in any kind of incident, I'll keep it for a while yet. Cheers, Andy
Great subject - I just got myself a shoei nxr but I don't know the date of manufacture from the packaging so who's to know when it should be discarded if we are to worry about glues and stuff degrading? Lovely helmet though !!!
I have a Nolan 103 modular and it's about 3+ years old and still works well, with only a few scratches and thankfully never a crash! As long as the inner liner is still good and it hasn't been abused I don't see why you wouldn't hold on to it past five years.
Good video. I have to agree on all your points. I was always under the impression that if your helmet was dropped from anywhere above waist height, you should change it. My last helmet was 5 years old when I changed it. It wasn't particularly loose, but it was looking a bit tired. Personally for me, I do take alot of care of my helmet (ooh-er lol) & if I haven't thrown it down the road and it doesn't rattle around on my bonce, I like to get 5 years out of it. Saying that, I've never bought a £500 lid, I've always bought the best I could afford at the time, but never the cheapest - normally around the £150 - £200 mark. Take care Jim
+Cosmic-Wizard Hi Jim - thanks for your kind words.....are you using your helmets every day?? I think a lot depends on usage too (as well as material degradation over time)....
Had a Shoei raid for six years, hit a deer went down the road on the side/cheek area and obviously gouged the fibreglass of the shell and heavily scratched the visor. As an experiment before throwing away, decided to carry out a sledge hammer test. took six heavy blows before cracking.
Good insight on protective gear. My first helmet was a $60 cheap brand I purchased to use while on my first bike before I knew whether or not this was a hobby I would pursue. I'm now looking at a premium helmet, I'm with you on the spend for premium and keep longer. Do you have any insight on Shoei vs. Arai or Icon or some of the others! Thanks Again
+Jake Croft Well I wear both Shoei and Arai and love them both - the Arai can be a bit more difficult to get the fit right but that may just be down to the shape of my head!
I too have a Qwest, great lids, had it for four knock free years. Like yours, it's still in almost mint condition as when its not on my head, its in its carry bag. The lining gets a clean fairly regularly as does the rest of it so I don't see any reason why I shouldn't get at least another four years out of it. I also have a Raid II which is in the same condition but a year younger so it would seem I'm sorted for the foreseeable.
Nice video. I've been wearing a Schubert helmet for over 5 years now and the foam lining is all falling out so making me think about replacing it. The rest of the helmet is fine though and given the cost of replacing I'm trying to hold off. Bit annoying when every time you remove the helmet you've got black bits of foam padding stuck to your head though!
I still wear a Shoei RF1000 that I got back in 2009. It's never been dropped. I don't use harsh cleaners. And, I swap it out with another helmet pretty often.
So much depends on if it was stored or used. I also think the more premium helmets probably last longer because of they materials they a built out of. Of course if its been in an accident replace it.
+Boodieman72 Yeah good point - agreed...I wonder how long they sit in the warehouse before being shipped to the retailer, and typically how long the retailer holds it before sale??
Yes, TMF, I believe they are close to $300 but I guess they do work well. I'll be trying out the new helmet later today and I'm sure that will make a difference plus ear plugs! Best of luck sir!
I bought a Shoei NXR to replace my XR1100 after using the XR1100 most days for around four years, though I have now gone back to the XR1100 as it is much quieter in the wind for me, especially with the Shoei Whisper kit installed (which you can't get for the NXR). I have always felt that if it hasn't been dropped and hasn't had chemicals on it, why replace it? Also on a different note, I really don't understand the appeal of Arai helmets..? They do really bad in SHARP rating (for the most part) and don't do well in noise level tests either.
+Joe Stankiewicz Hi Joe, well I guess the only reason for replacement over a long period of time if the helmet hasn't been used and hasn't been dropped is the issue of the material becoming brittle I mentioned, but that would be a long term thing. I guess it comes down to personal choices in the end - just like the Shoei v Arai debate (personally I like 'em both!)....cheers for stopping by, all the best - TMF
Great subject. I tend to buy Arais which are undoubtedly a premium product. Due to the nature of my work I get quite grubby so I have one for the commute and one for "best" and each lid does about three years of best before being relegated to the commute for a further three years. After this time they're pretty rank so the decision is made for me.
+DukeDyson Hey DD - good to hear from you again! ...I'm now intrigued about the nature of your work! ....and you look like a fella who might have dabbled with a few hair products in his time???
Good video. My shoei is kept in a wardrobe and I'm a fair weather rider so all being equal it should last a lot longer than five years, I think 3-5 years is based on someone touring the world constantly on a tenere - I think where they're kept and looked after is a much bigger aspect..could be good for decades. Defininley a lot of marketing b/s. Having said that, who doesn't "want" a new lid? Great retail therapy! Good vid thanks!
I’ve got a shoei helmet bought in 1996 was used for two months then carefully stored out of sunlight and extreme temperatures . It still looks new visor has no obvious damage should I discard and replace it as I’m about to start riding again ?
You make many good points in your video TMF. I don't think that a 5-year period will have a significant, if not any, impact on how the helmet will perform in case of an accident. However, I do believe that Snell's arguments about the liner degradation by sweat, body fluids and generally by using it are true to the extent of active safety. A new and unused helmet is more firm, the material is breathable, you generally feel better wearing it. And that definitely helps in preventing an accident. So from that standpoint, I would say that it's all a matter of specific use. I would still like some scientific data on the impact protection after 5 years though, to see what's what
+NtGism Exactly my point (but put better/more succinctly) - we need some proper data on this, gleaned from tests carried out with some science behind them by an independent body....
i would say that it all depends on the way the helmet was used. i personally buy a new helmet in two cases: 1. the helmet is getting loose; 2. i've seen a helmet that i like more than the one i have :)
@@TheMissendenFlyer im not sure if you'd see this, i have an arai debut that i stupidly dropped after thinking it would be safe hanging from my handlebars. Besides some scuff marks there doesnt seem to be any damage. Iyo do you think its still safe to use
Good video, I’m a bit late to the party on this one, but I prefer to buy a premium product and keep it longer just for the comfort and style factor if anything. The comfort of a premium lid is ‘usually’ better than a cheaper one though there are some exceptions.
My dirt bike helmet has been through a few crashes, and the bit near the air inlet at the very tip of the jaw all the rubber inside there is now falling off due to a stick ripping it open and now it won't stop falling out. Pretty sure I should replace it but I wanna hang on to it for a little longer so I can find a good deal, just asking if I should replace right now or could I wait another 6 months?
almost a year late..i have a nolan n104 which i only wear on long rides so that's safe to say i prob used in about 20 times in 2 years and apart from changing the face shield i see no reason to change the helmet anytime soon.. the only consideration would be something significantly quieter or lighter but that's more of a want than a need
Do new helmets have a date of manufacture printed on them somewhere? My mate just got a great discount on a Bell with a discontinued design - has it been sat in a shop degrading for 3 years? Like you say, all about personal judgement until proper scientific tests done.
Fully agree on the personal judgement thing......Amongst it being a common sense thing if a particular helmut you own has been used thoughrouly and is possibly looking and feeling a tad tired then after a few years it will be of no great pains to replace it but like yaself I have more than one helmut and in particular my more expensive Shark....which is worn only if I'm doing long Rideouts or meets and more often than not at weekends....it is looked after...always bagged and kept in my house. . ..its it stays that way then I would probably not consider replacing it after just five years....maybe a couple of years more than that......where as I use a far cheaper ls2 helmut every day for work and local hooning about.....its still looked after but suffers alot more wear so I would expect to renew that in about 3 to four years depending on how it feels and overall condition. .. A big interesting subject is this and well worth looking into... RSM.
+WEGGY zx12r Cheers Weggyzx12r I'm glad we're in agreement, as you say, quite a controversial subject and I'm certainly no expert....so one for us all to consider carefully. Thanks for stopping by - all the best - TMF
personal thought is if you only ride once or twice a month then change the lid when you get board with it but if you ride every day wind rain sun cold then keep to the 5 year manufactures idea
A friend of mine low sided and grazed his helmet slightly. Do you think it needs changing if there wasn't a full blown impact? I would love to know if there are any companies near London that can appraise a Shoei helmet. I don't think it's easy to tell whether the EPS liner has been compromised from a minor spill. Having said that, I personally don't think it's worth the risk and would change the helmet. I think changing your helmet should also depends on frequency of use. As a weekend rider my helmet wouldn't have had anywhere near as much usage in comparison to an everyday commuter, therefore maybe that should be factored in as a consideration.
+TripleTorque Yeah I agree with your last point and I think you answered your own question on your pal's helmet. If I'd had an off with my head in the helmet, and the helmet ended up contacting the deck, I think I would replace....best to err on the cautious side. I have a personal saying I use when assessing any safety matters in my flying "if there's doubt, there's no doubt" and it's kept me safe so far...think the same applies here. All the best - TMF.
PS when I was looking into buying a flip up ("modular") helmet, I noticed that the BMW System 6 newer evo version actually received a lower Sharp rating than it's predecessors!
If it still feels nice and tight, has no damage and is well looked after I'd keep hold of it. Manufacturers obviously want you to buy new but like you said if your spending £500-£600 it should last longer. You've made me think now, I've had mine about 6 years. Safety is number one priority!
+FireBlade Rider Yeah time flies doesn't it - in my mind this is still a "new" helmet! You reminded me actually, I forgot to say in the video, the number 1 factor with helmets is of course the right fit - an older good fitting helmet will do you more favours than a brand new loose one!! Cheers for stopping by, all the best - TMF
Hello. Your helmet looks really good after 5 years. I would cert keep it longer if straps are still intact. My gt-air shoei will need changing after 2.5yrs as straps are showing signs of daily use due to commuting. I have X4 Arai but keeping it for longer trips and weekend ride outs.
+Pawel Kisiel Hi Pawel - good to hear from you - and yes, my Shoei is completely in tact so I will be keeping her for a while longer yet. I love my Tour X4 - will be gutted when the time comes to bin that one!
Very interesting topic. I just like having a change of a the helmet the same way some people like to have different shoes lol I've dropped both my current helmets and sadly crashed in both (but the helmet didn't come into contact with the ground in the crashed). So since they've been a little abused, I'm looking at changing them, but I know of some riders who are weekend summer worriers and they've have the same helmet for 10 years. But people will make their own calls when it comes to it :/
Well Done & thorough !!! I believe SHOEI will X-ray your helmet for free every 2yrs, too... & other manufacturers may do similar (RF1100 is mine) ;) Also, if you Auto-Cross or Track Cars, make sure it's rated Snell 10, or Motor Club approved. Not all Motorcycle Helmets are sufficiently rated for Auto racing, if you want to use for both
I think while in storage, awaiting to be sold, helmets also get some deterioration, so they should have a manufacturing date, unless it's 5 years from purchase, wich I found odd.
Personally I have always changed at 3 Years max, with the exception of Shark as their liners lose shape very fast, I do however keep a helmet for wet weather and that is changed annually
Great video as always Flyer. I just want to pass along something I've experienced. I live in a hot climate (Florida) and had one of my helmets out in the garage (un-air conditioned) with my bike. I went to put it on one day to discover the lining had disintegrated especially at the top, I would imagine from being in the heat. The clothes dryer is also in the garage so that probably doesn't help. Needless to say I keep my helmets in the house now and I would advise anyone to do the same.
I have an 5year old helmet and it has been stored for 3 of those years in a black plastic bag in a cool cellar..never dropped or been in an accident..gonna keep it couple of more years..oh and i dont drive that much year anyway..
By a coincidence I changed mine recently. I also did some research and learnt that the polycarbonate degrades significantly over time. On a Web forum, one contributor had the job of destroying old helmets (so that no-one could possibly acquire them and then have a serious, even fatal, accident etc.), and found the five or six year (plus) old ones were far more brittle and could quite easily be smashed to smithereens ! I intend to take care of my new helmet, even though it was only cheap and cheerful - when I win this elusive National Lottery I will purchase a Shoei or an Arai then !
Interesting.....and yes the "premium" brands are getting stupidly expensive, I can't help thinking there's an element of "paying for the name" with these guys - although they do make great lids their margins must be much greater than the "lesser" brands that still seem to make a profit on a sub £300 helmet...thanks for stopping by, all the best - TMF
Another good video, TMF. To me it's just like buying a used motorcycle. Something which has been well cared for, had little use and is in tip top condition, will always trump something newer, that's been used and abused on a daily basis. I have five crash helmets at the moment. All have had light use. And I won't even let people touch them, I'm so caring of their condition. I'll replace them sympathetically when I feel the time is right to retire them. I'm about to buy a sixth, so I'd better start! :-D
+Richard Dunn I'm with you Richard - I can't see me binning any of my helmets for at least a couple more years (unless something bad happens in the meantime!!)...good to hear from you again, all the best - TMF
Hi. A very interesting topic- it makes me shudder when I remember a couple of my own helmets from back in the day. Which brings me onto the subject of 'Airvests'. After initially looking for a HiVis vest I eventually purchased a Helite Airvest, with which I'm evtremely happy with. I feel I owe it to myself to take my safety seriously and to minimise the severity of any accident I may have in the future. We all have cars with airbags and we wouldn't dream of not using the seatbelt in a car so why not use an Airvest. It might sound alien now but I believe it's a 'no brainer'.
+John “Johnnyblot” Ball ....I like the idea of an airvest but aren't they a faff to connect up to the bike? Very expensive and so on??....what sort did you get and how practical is it??
+TheMissendenFlyer I bought the Turtle back which has armour added in the back making it even better. (There are videos on UA-cam). I take your point about being a faff as I've taken the armour out of the back of my jacket to make it more comfortable. However when wearing it you don't know you've got it on. The lanyard is clipped to the cord attached to the frame at the front of yr seat. You do have to remember to attach/detach yrself. Which I'm hoping will become normal routine eventually. Tbh I've not been out recently because of high winds. But I'm planning to ride to Morocco and back in April so I will be using it.
+John “Johnnyblot” Ball ....interesting - I do like the idea of these but I know from using my heated gloves that it's such a faff connecting and disconnecting and worrying if the connection is still good and so on I end up not using them - it would be a shame to go to al the expense of buying one of these to then not use it....Morocco trip sounds like fun...enjoy!
+TheMissendenFlyer that's right- it would be a shame not to use it. But hopefully it will become routine after putting my jacket on?? My own personal motivation for this piece of kit is that I owe it to myself and my family to dramatically increase my chances of survival and/or serious injury should I have a serious accident. Although it's an expensive piece of kit- I will only buy it once (hopefully never need it). Even if it's used the gas cartridge is easily replaced by myself. One point I would make- which relates to the crash helmet, is that once the vest has been activated/inflated the helmet is held firm. Stopping the tendency of your head flailing around like a 'noddy-dog'. Thus reducing neck injuries.... I hope??? and of course the GS has heated grips :-).
Just a thought TMF, but when you buy a new helmet, it could have been sitting in the shop for 6 months before they discounted it and you bought it on special offer. Therefore is this recommendation about 5 years in the real world or about a shelf life from new?
+bleepbooster That thought had indeed occurred to me - it should be five years from manufacture for this very reason (if logic prevailed) but I think the manufacturers say five years from purchase....which makes no sense at all!!
Just ordered a Shoei neotec . About $600 here in the US. It will be replacing my 12 year old Nolan. Now that I'm on a new T120, I needed a better helmet for wind noise. I hope it is better than the Nolan!
Have a look at the Sharp website for helmets at sharp.dft.gov.uk. When you look at the modular helmets you notice that some of them will flip open when impacted. Sharp test this and give a score on the failure rate. Even an expensive Shoei fails 8% of the time. Some helmets tested never flipped open during testing. But then you look at the other safety scores and often they compromise other parts of the helmet to try and keep the weight down. As a result side impact can be very weak. Modular helmets are generally very heavy and this must also have an impact on neck injuries. A heavier head has more momentum in a crash. That can't be good. I came to the conclusion that they are ok if you are riding them around town and not doing high speeds, but if you are on freeway doing 80kmh plus, the risk a helmet can flip open is unacceptable.
yes wise words tmf, totally agree, mine cost me £500 and will certainly keep it more than 5 years, I look after it well though, maybe another indication could be how many miles the helmet actually does?. exposing it to the weather ect. I noticed you've changed the seat on your street triple !!.
+Peter Gunton Yes, total hours of use (and in what conditions) must have a bearing on materials degradation - we need proper scientific testing and results! ....and well spotted, changed the STR back to the Triumph gel seat for a change....
I´ve got my X-Lite X701 Helmet for five years now. I did wear it under every condition (rain, snow, mediterranian sun...) and it fell off the bike twice now...not too bad though. This winter I´m gonna buy a new one. BUT I will choose between a X-Lite or a Schuberth helmet because they are almost the only companies who produce their helmets in Europe. X-Lite in Italy, Schuberth in Germany. The other brands (AGV, Shoei, you name it) are producing their helmets in China or Korea. I forgot, Nexx is producing in Portugal but I dont like the looks of it ;) cheers
I think they're just trying to sell you a new helmet, general recommendation is 5 years (and I would even question that as it comes from manufacturers!!)...
Interesting question TMF, one could argue that motorbikes in general have gotten safer over the last five years, does that mean all older bikes should be discarded? I would tend to agree with you, if it hasn't been abused is in good condition then why not continue to use it until such time there is categoric evidence presented to us that suggests we ought to discard them! Oh yeah, I test rode a BMW R1200RT today, have to say it was mighty accomplished, seriously comfortable too, the biggest surprise (which you highlighted previously) it handled really, really well, am I at that stage of my life when I need one, not sure, though it would make an excellent tourer, which is something I am hoping to do more of in the near future. As always looking forward to your next video. cheers Tony
I replace every five years not just for degrading materials but also because of advancement in technology in safety and comfort. I treat the helmet like a smart phone- not quite a consumable but planned to be obsolete
As you've pointed out MF there are many factors involved here. I've tended to change mine around the 5 year mark, but that's more because I changed my bike than anything else. I don't use my helmet every day and it's kept in its carry bag in a cupboard away from uv light when not in use so being a premium end helmet it should last at least 5 years. As others have said I'd rather have an expensive one and change it less often. BTW you need a bigger man cave as it's starting to look untidy especially if you do get that RT at some stage.... All the best Ade
+adrianbarrie13 .....good to hear from you again Ade, I agree with all your points. With regards to the man-cave I was seeing how much space I could make by bunching the existing bikes up, there's room for at least another two bikes in there yet (six if I use both halves of the garage :0) ) May need you to talk to the wife though.....
Hi Sir! I never ever did know that a Helmet had a shelf life! I buy Nitro Helmets of that are Cheaper.but i didnt know you had to change in time! I was thinking they were for bikeing Life! So Sir! I was very interested to Come across your Video on this Subject.how old are the Helmets before you buy one! Meaning! How long have they been in the Shop, from the factory from where ever they come from in the world? So i gess its very much up to the individual if and when to change bike Gear! Thankyou Sir.
Interesting. A helmet well taken care of is basically just exposed to the elements and wind. Food for thought rock climbing gear ie: slings (not carabiners) have a 10 year shelf life.
I also hope to get more than 5 yrs. use from my "premium" helmet. In Canada we are lucky if we get 6 or 7 months from our bikes, so my helmet sits on a shelf in it's bag in a warm, dry environment for 4-5 months at a time. So climate is another factor.
I have a helmet that's around 14 years old (so pretty old) but after only about a year I started using another one and kept it indoors, away from heat sources in its cover. Any thoughts anyone? Bin it or keep it as a spare?
just got back into biking after an absence of 20 years and loving your videos. My ageing AGV helmet (over 20 years) looked great but the lining had disintegrated and was just powder- time for a new one
If it's had limited use, you've looked after it and it isn't showing any visible degradation I'd have no problems keeping and using a helmet for longer than 5 years. I'd personally be more comfortable wearing a high end, good quality helmet more than 5 years old than a brand new low end one. Just my 2p :)
+TheMissendenFlyer could this be the simple reply to your video ? as we've assatained it's clearly not. the question is,or was.... manufacturers suggest a five year shelf life. Applying the logic "Did it work" is rather worrying. as if it had not....... great videos. keep them coming !
I've looked into this pretty extensively. Have not been about to document who was the first to suggest this standard. I suspect it was SALES guys, just wanting to sell more helmets. No replacement time frame suggested by US DOT regs on helmets. It's been suggested by one helmet marketing guy that Bell was the one that came up with this five year replacement, but that it was the designers and engineers, NOT sales. Still trying to run that down. Arai started making helmets one by one in the 40s, Bell started in 54 I think, but no one I contact with either company seems to know who started it. Is this codified in the ECE regs?
Well personally I'd still use it but I guess technically the material could be getting brittle.....personal choice this one - be it on your head! (see what I did there?)
My bike helmet's only 2 years old but gets used frequently as I also wear it whenever I'm a passenger in the car & my wife's driving.
Gave me a good chuckle, I am surprised this does not have more comments
nosherz I got rid of the wife...she let me keep the helmet though....
@@Kornholeeoo fuck all I got was a pan
HAhaha!
No company is ever going to show any data on helmet degradation across 5 years, because it won't support their recommendations.
Hi tmf, I design and install bathrooms and I am recommending that everybody should change their bathroom at least every 3 to 4 years due to wear and tear! thank you! please call for a free quotation!!!! I think this 5 year thing has been made up by bikers trying to convince the other half that they need a new helmet, it certainly worked for me, showed her the cold facts on line and 2 days later we were on our way to the new helmet shop, perfect
+Danny Bannister Like it....in fact I just tried this very technique and it too seems to be working for me :0) If only we could come up with the same evidence for bikes self disintegrating after a couple of years.....
I save loads of money by making my own helmets. In the past I've used a bucket with eye holes cut out, a pressure cooker, a condom stretched over my head and painted with metallic paint and a lampshade.
+A_Wise_Young_Man Hmm...
Try a goldfish bowl.The bodily fluids don't leak out through the visor.
No, a goldfish bowl is very dangerous. Lately I've been experimenting with gluing pieces of scrap metal to my head. Seems to work a treat.
I'm working on a theory that if new helmets could perhaps have integrated helium gas filled canisters that would have an attached activation cord to the handlebars which in the unlikely event of an accident would simply fill surrounding helmet air bags with the helium gas thus lifting the rider skywards on impact and avoiding (with the exception of overhead power lines and low flying aircraft) any injury at all.
I am willing to call this device "TheMissendenFlyer" upon your approval and your subsequent testing (of course).
To bring the rider back down to Earth the rider would simply use the attached straw and slowly suck out excess helium gas resulting in a very humorous voice which I feel may lighten the mood of any confrontation with involved annoyed road users.
I feel this would be especially valuable and agreeable in the event of a multi motorcycle pile-up as all riders descent from the sky and have to exchange details etc.
Oh and keep your helmet (for now)
Yours, Lord Hepcat of Great Glen.
+Hepcat Harley I am liking that thought sir! Would also make for some cracking you tube coverage and may count towards my log book hours each year, maybe????
Indeed Sir, yes an elevated view of any situation would be invaluable to insurance brokers and with your flight experience I am feeling very confident.
+Hepcat Harley I'm in!
Oh Bravo! and I thought this country had lost its great pioneers. :)
+Hepcat Harley
I always thought you Harley guys were a little light headed.
Great topic, you saved alot of us some researching time. Keep it. Looks brand new.
+Florida Outdoor Adventures Thanks as ever for your kind words - I will be keeping this for probably another 2-3 years (providing I don't "use" it!) - it would be a different matter if I commuted on my bike and wore it every day....
TheMissendenFlyer (kfghvh
Florida Outdoor Adventures UN y
I think everything you said makes perfect sense and echoes exactly how I feel. So glad they have removable washable linings now too haha.
Well-presented topic delivered with humor...! Thanks for posting..! Gordon
Thank you very much Gordon - appreciated!
Great open conversation, I really enjoyed they style.
+Gareth Thanks Gareth - glad you enjoyed it....thanks for stopping by to say so - TMF
Great video mate. I've had my present helmet for 3 years & always start to look into a new one at that stage. This has made me think though. Cheers, Al. 😉👍
Cheers Al - thanks for watching
Great video and points well made. I have just checked the age of my Arai on the chin strap and it shows 09/08 so over 9 years old. I am a weekend rider and there have been years when I have not used it at all. It is still in excellent condition inside and out so will not be replacing it any time soon. Took your advice and am now the proud owner of a 2008 Street triple, love it.
Nice one Martin - and yes, you have to apply a bit of common sense to this game I agree...
"i don't wear make up other than the weekends" lol
+Jeff Ferguson I’m here all week....
Great line, smooth delivery!
I buy middle of the road priced and keep forever as long as there are no signs of deterioration. I also wear a helmet liner (skull cap)
Good video and a lot of information. Maybe do a review between open & closed faced helmets with a video on how to check to see if the helmet is a correct fit or not as a lot of shop staff haven't a clue.
The manufacture date is more important than when it was purchased, all helmets have the manufacture date on labels inside the helmet (even my 1994 Shoei had one), and in the case of later Arai's it is stamped on the metal D ring buckle. Many helmets have been in stock for 2/3 years, I recently bought a Shoei ADV helmets, from a local dealer, I divided the asking price by 7 (presumed life) and multiplied that by the remaining years, and offered that to the retailer, who after after a short discussion, accepted (it's always worth a barter).
Sound advice. As always many factors apply like you suggest. About the make-up I think that might also include after shave and skin lotion.
+gratemybuttocks Yes I think you're right - must cut down on my facial cosmetics regime!
Couldn't agree more with the points you made in this vid.
In the last 4 decades, I've been in wrecks twice that bounced my noggin off the pavement. In both, I was wearing quality helmets (Shoei & Arai) that were far over 5 years old and both had seen a lot of action.
In the Arai wreck, it was a full face and I simply bounced the side of the helmet off a curb while basically just falling to earth in a low side. It got damaged enough to replace and I wasn't the least bit fazed.
In the Shoei wreck, it was a 3/4 helmet and we bounced down the about 50 meters or so after T-boning a deer at 60 mph and flying thru the bike's windshield. Pretty much every bit of that helmet was damaged. Again, I didn't even get my bell rung.
People worry a lot about face injuries in open face, but I think you would really have to have a peculiar wreck that allowed you face to kiss pavement. With an inch of padding around your head, your face is recessed far enough that unless you chin plant, the helmet is going to hit first and bounce before your face touches. Even with the visor obliterated, my face was as pretty after the crash as before it.
OTOH, lower quality lids may require more frequent replacement, not necessarily for more severe degradation of the impact bits, but because the lesser construction will probably cause the thing to start falling apart by then.
I would differentiate between compound plastics and thermoplastics. Like you I have a background in aviation, and have had lovely flights in decades old gliders made of glassfibre. As they still sit in the dark most of their lives, the resin that binds the fibres is in perfect shape and as strong as on day one. Thermoplastics do vent off their softeners which makes the material turn brittle over the years, so I fully understand that there is the need to replace them in steady intervals.
Great video, loved it :P found it surprisingly entertaining and informative (though also surprisingly, when I bought my last helmet the dealer told me all of this :O) but they're super good.
I bought the shoei neotec (flip able qwest), was going to go for the qwest but I like the flip front and the neotec had some better reviews at the time, I find both are super good, was told them two specifically, that they'd last 2-5 years depending how much you use them. :)
+semaj eeb ....Glad you enjoyed it, thanks for the kind words. How do you find the noise level on the Neotec? I might consider one of those when my Qwest does finally have to go.....
Great video, thanks for making it! On the premium vs budget question, surely they all pass the same tests? So it's a question of materials - make sure the premium really has longer lasting construction. I like my 10yr old HJC modular, it looks & fits fine so no plans to change it.
I still use my Toy Lee design Shoei xbr1000 from the mid 2000’s. It only done a couple of thousand miles a year on European trips as I use a Schubert as my daily lid. I’ll be using it for years to come as it’s still a great product.
I'm liking the new camera angles 👍🏻.
+DervMan Ha haaa, glad you spotted that - just a poor attempt at keeping a solid talk to camera a bit more interesting (could have done with a few more actually).....
My old helmet earned keepsake only status years ago. But now that I am looking to start riding again, I have been shopping the DOT/ECE and DOT/Snell rated helmets. Being a bit older and vain I want something comfortable and good-looking. The cheapskate in me doesn't want to spend more than about $250. Regardless of what I finally get, I plan to keep it 5-7 years unless it saves me in a crash. My first helmet stayed pretty fit until about 8-10 years old, but then the foam and liner both let go. My sons had been using it while riding their bicycles on the street in front of our home. It seems a full face motorcycle helmet had a greater "cool factor" that any of the neighbor kids' new bicycle helmets. Especially when they found that the visor closed automatically (by design) if you rode fast enough. Thanks for the info and opinions.
brilliant review because my helmet is now 5 years old and I still like it]
I keep mine out of sunlight when using and look after them always ,hjc RHPA10 is dated 2012 it gets weekend use looks new do dings or chips .I have 2 other hjc helmets for daily use too.
Thanks for the review. The industry says five years, but I'm a cheap so that seems like a lot to me, (keep reading to the end). Replacement also depends on how much you wear it, the conditions you wear it in, and how much you sweat in it. If the inside gets loose because the padding is matted down, then replacement sounds like a good option. I wouldn't believe the industry very much if I didn't have the following personal experience. I'm a skier and have several ski boots, some older. A friend told me that the ski boot plastic shell breaks down over time, I didn't believe him. Then one day I was pulling the liner out of an older premium ski boot and the shell just disintegrated, crumpled into pieces. I was shocked. Anyway things do degrade over time. Something to take into consideration, and make you think a little. Thanks.
I had the same experience: my ski boot literally exploded ! So I came to the same conclusion as yours. To put the helmet onto my head I have to pull it a bit open on the sides, meaning I apply constraint on it each time I have to put it on or to remove it, meaningI accelerate the ageing process of the material structure. It definitely has to be replaced every 5 or so years.
You said your ski boots are made of plastic. Plastic - even a good one - hates low temperatures, it becomes brittle really fast. My helmet spends 90% of it's life in around +23C. These are totally different circumstances.
my old helmets a bit wrinkled now, plus its got a hole in the top, just needs a good buff!
Great video TMF! I agree with your skepticism on the "5 year rule", especially when it comes to premium quality helmets like the one you have there. I personally own a Shoei Neotech (around the same price range as yours), and as long as I can keep it in good condition (I don't go offroad with it+not crashed with it+good storage when not being used) I think it should really live up to 8/9+ years. But like you said, it comes down to some common sense and judgement. After all, when it comes to saving your head, there are no shortcuts.
+Ace Teller Yes it's a tricky one isn't it - manufacturers do have that vested interest and these things aint cheap...but what price do you put on keeping your head in one piece??! Cheers for watching - TMF
Your facial expression at 02:04 was hilarious!
I've always been a bit sceptical about the 5 year replacement recommendation too. Like you mentioned, it would be helpful if there was some data available that provided conclusive proof of degradation, but I imagine there are so many variables involved, it would be hard to provide a simple answer.
+gizzmo84 indeed, hence why this really comes down to your own judgement. My face may have been hilarious but never the less appropriate I thought! Cheers for stopping by....
I was considering getting a new helmet, one that has a higher viability factor, than the black one I currently wear. The black helmet seems to blend in low light and at night time. I did add 3M reflective tape to the back and sides of the black helmet.
+skylift2 Yes I don't know if you spotted I have some silver 3M reflective tape on the back of that Shoei - it's good stuff.....
A very nicely done video! I liked the different camera angles to increase attention! :-) Very slick!
I''d replace a Helmet every 3 years if I used that helmet every day / time i rode... If I had 2 helmets, and shared them out equally, I'd probably swap both after 6 years, simple maths... But everyone has a different view on how much they ride / use their helmets, so this is such a subjective topic as we all have different views on not only how we use our helmets, but for how long and in what weathers... For example, should it be a time related change, or a distance related change? Weather and temperature related or speed and therefore windspeed related...
Just thought I'd add a few other views!
It's just so personal... Up to you dear boy!
+Captain Rambunctious Thanks Skipper! ....glad you spotted the camera angle do dah, just attempting to make a piece to camera seem a little less tiresome, what! Completely agree with your conclusion though, a bit like economics, too many variables to really get a handle on it....
I wonder about helmets kept in storage. I sold my bike a year ago and have the helmet packed away until I decide what next. Reckon the materials - glues, liners, etc, deteriorate over time? I'd hate to have to get a new one when the current one is in good nick, but after a couple of years without use I'm not sure how safe it'd be.
Great topic, thank you! I've often wondered about how long to keep using the same helmet. I had a Shoei neotec, which I still use occasionally, but have bought the Shoei Adv which I now prefer! I guess I am in the buy premium and keep longer team.....though you are spot on, it would be good to have some test results to go on! Maybe there is someone from Shoei listening!
+Sconce Hill ...the trouble is, if it were Shoei presenting the information (or any other manufacturer) I would tend to be sceptical! Thanks for stopping by - TMF
Good timing this TMF. My wife bought me an Arai for my 50th and it's my 55th in a few weeks time.
This time around I've decided to keep it another 12 months; the fit isn't quite as snug as it was 5 years ago, but as it's still as new, it'll do.
PS: In my humble opinion, the Arai is a great helmet, but it's a bit noisy. I think it's down to the side pods.
Another quality vlog 👍🏻
+SBKPete Cheers SBKPete - good to hear from you again. yes the fit has gone a little with my Shoei, I'm thinking some new cheek pads maybe all it needs to restore it back to its former glory....
Another great video as always! I am in full agreement with you. I to believe that PPE should never be skimped on as it could be the difference between life and death, or at least serious injury. While I still do not yet own a motorbike ( I am a full time Engineering Student), I apply this to other things such as protective work wear or my bicycle helmet.
+George Illing Thanks George, glad we concur, and yes, as a general principle, skimping on safety due cost is not a great idea.....thanks for stopping by, all the best - TMF
Hi TMF - I too have a Qwest, nice lid. I'm quite attached to mine (which I'm sure is a common sentiment) and will be sorry to see it put out to pasture when the time comes, especially if it looks in good order!
+ImaginaryGarage I'm with you there bud! ....and good to hear from you again by the way....
Great vid keep up the good work
Will do Robert....
So my 1989 Arai F1 Kevin Schwantz replica might be a little old?
It doesn't creak and the sponge part of the lining falls out as dust whenever I pick it up. I take it out of the wardrobe every now and then to look at and caress it. Mmmmm
I recently replaced my helmet after 5 years, and the new one is definitely different. It has a completely different strap on it (which seemed to be a new standard as most helmets had it) and a flip down sun visor. Similar price.
Nice one!
I clean my helmet after every ride [no chemicals] and hand wash the removable innards innards if they get dirty every few months. I also wear a snood to keep the innards as clean as possible
Nice video, as usual and some interesting thoughts. I ride a lot and I tend to replace my helmet when it 'feels' like it needs replaced. I do replace check pads and the like, but there comes a point where the helmet just doesn't feel right and that is when it gets replaced. I tend to use Shoei and they last me about 3 years. Based on that subjective view, if I didn't ride as much, I would happily keep a helmet for more than 5 years.
Glad the video was of interest and thanks for taking the time to stop by, ride safe - all the best - TMF
I have an AGV, I bought in 2002. wore it for three or four months it was then stored in its bag in my loft, its spotless. If I had used it every day for five years it would have been exposed to all manor of nasty's, whereas mine has no exposure to UV or any chemical but being 15 years old I couldn't really trust it though. Thanks for all your vids.
So what did you do?
You're right!!! great topic 👍👍👍👍👍👍
+TripleObsession Cheers :0)
I don't understand why Snell wouldn't have results from testing five year old helmets to substantiate their recommendations. It was Snell that developed the criteria for certification to their standard. If they or the manufacturers are interested in backing that recommendation they could easily run the same suite of tests and determine the degree of deterioration, or whether the helmet which previously passed, now fails to pass. Beyond that, the determinant is whether the fit has changed as pointed out here or if there is cosmetic damage.
+Richard Jarvis Indeed I agree, seems a bit of a glaring hole not having data to back up the 5 year recommendation.....thanks for stopping by, all the best - TMF
Hi TMF, I have a Shoei GT Air which I've had for two years and used a lot as I commute to work by bike most days. It still feels as good as when I bought it and still using the original visor which I clean with baby wipes. It can be difficult to judge degradation when you use something regularly, but my view is as long as it looks fine and not involved in any kind of incident, I'll keep it for a while yet. Cheers, Andy
+Andrew Tofts Sure thing Andy, I think if the fit starts to go (i.e. the hamster cheeks start to disappear) then it's also time for a change....
Great subject - I just got myself a shoei nxr but I don't know the date of manufacture from the packaging so who's to know when it should be discarded if we are to worry about glues and stuff degrading? Lovely helmet though !!!
Yes that is a problem, who knows how long these things sit in distributors warehouses! One hopes not too long (certainly not years)....
I have a Nolan 103 modular and it's about 3+ years old and still works well, with only a few scratches and thankfully never a crash! As long as the inner liner is still good and it hasn't been abused I don't see why you wouldn't hold on to it past five years.
+Norm K. My thoughts exactly Norm.....
Good video. I have to agree on all your points.
I was always under the impression that if your helmet was dropped from anywhere above waist height, you should change it.
My last helmet was 5 years old when I changed it. It wasn't particularly loose, but it was looking a bit tired.
Personally for me, I do take alot of care of my helmet (ooh-er lol) & if I haven't thrown it down the road and it doesn't rattle around on my bonce, I like to get 5 years out of it. Saying that, I've never bought a £500 lid, I've always bought the best I could afford at the time, but never the cheapest - normally around the £150 - £200 mark.
Take care
Jim
+Cosmic-Wizard Hi Jim - thanks for your kind words.....are you using your helmets every day?? I think a lot depends on usage too (as well as material degradation over time)....
Had a Shoei raid for six years, hit a deer went down the road on the side/cheek area and obviously gouged the fibreglass of the shell and heavily scratched the visor. As an experiment before throwing away, decided to carry out a sledge hammer test. took six heavy blows before cracking.
Wow!
Good insight on protective gear. My first helmet was a $60 cheap brand I purchased to use while on my first bike before I knew whether or not this was a hobby I would pursue. I'm now looking at a premium helmet, I'm with you on the spend for premium and keep longer. Do you have any insight on Shoei vs. Arai or Icon or some of the others! Thanks Again
+Jake Croft Well I wear both Shoei and Arai and love them both - the Arai can be a bit more difficult to get the fit right but that may just be down to the shape of my head!
I too have a Qwest, great lids, had it for four knock free years.
Like yours, it's still in almost mint condition as when its not on my head, its in its carry bag.
The lining gets a clean fairly regularly as does the rest of it so I don't see any reason why I shouldn't get at least another four years out of it.
I also have a Raid II which is in the same condition but a year younger so it would seem I'm sorted for the foreseeable.
+triumphrider Nice one - thanks for stopping by - all the best - TMF
Nice video. I've been wearing a Schubert helmet for over 5 years now and the foam lining is all falling out so making me think about replacing it. The rest of the helmet is fine though and given the cost of replacing I'm trying to hold off. Bit annoying when every time you remove the helmet you've got black bits of foam padding stuck to your head though!
+Motorcycle Mumbling I can imagine!!! Sounds to me like you're overdue for a new lid....enjoy and thanks for stopping by - all the best - TMF
I still wear a Shoei RF1000 that I got back in 2009. It's never been dropped. I don't use harsh cleaners. And, I swap it out with another helmet pretty often.
+Joel Borden ...should be good then Joel I reckon, you know how much work the helmet has done! Thanks for stopping by....all the best - TMF
So much depends on if it was stored or used. I also think the more premium helmets probably last longer because of they materials they a built out of. Of course if its been in an accident replace it.
+Boodieman72 Yeah good point - agreed...I wonder how long they sit in the warehouse before being shipped to the retailer, and typically how long the retailer holds it before sale??
Yes, TMF, I believe they are close to $300 but I guess they do work well. I'll be trying out the new helmet later today and I'm sure that will make a difference plus ear plugs! Best of luck sir!
+FLY-4202 ....somewhat cheaper than the headsets then! :0)
I bought a Shoei NXR to replace my XR1100 after using the XR1100 most days for around four years, though I have now gone back to the XR1100 as it is much quieter in the wind for me, especially with the Shoei Whisper kit installed (which you can't get for the NXR). I have always felt that if it hasn't been dropped and hasn't had chemicals on it, why replace it?
Also on a different note, I really don't understand the appeal of Arai helmets..? They do really bad in SHARP rating (for the most part) and don't do well in noise level tests either.
+Joe Stankiewicz Hi Joe, well I guess the only reason for replacement over a long period of time if the helmet hasn't been used and hasn't been dropped is the issue of the material becoming brittle I mentioned, but that would be a long term thing. I guess it comes down to personal choices in the end - just like the Shoei v Arai debate (personally I like 'em both!)....cheers for stopping by, all the best - TMF
Great subject. I tend to buy Arais which are undoubtedly a premium product. Due to the nature of my work I get quite grubby so I have one for the commute and one for "best" and each lid does about three years of best before being relegated to the commute for a further three years. After this time they're pretty rank so the decision is made for me.
+DukeDyson Hey DD - good to hear from you again! ...I'm now intrigued about the nature of your work! ....and you look like a fella who might have dabbled with a few hair products in his time???
Great review good common sense thanks
Thank you Anthony - good to have you along!
Good video. My shoei is kept in a wardrobe and I'm a fair weather rider so all being equal it should last a lot longer than five years, I think 3-5 years is based on someone touring the world constantly on a tenere - I think where they're kept and looked after is a much bigger aspect..could be good for decades. Defininley a lot of marketing b/s. Having said that, who doesn't "want" a new lid? Great retail therapy!
Good vid thanks!
All very true! Thanks for watching and for stopping by!
I've had my new lid HJC RPHA-MAX 18 months now the only reason I changed from AGV which I'd had 2 years was it just didn't feel comfortable
+installer35 The best reason there is I reckon!
I’ve got a shoei helmet bought in 1996 was used for two months then carefully stored out of sunlight and extreme temperatures . It still looks new visor has no obvious damage should I discard and replace it as I’m about to start riding again ?
I think over 20 years is pushing it - I’d say yes you should….
You make many good points in your video TMF. I don't think that a 5-year period will have a significant, if not any, impact on how the helmet will perform in case of an accident. However, I do believe that Snell's arguments about the liner degradation by sweat, body fluids and generally by using it are true to the extent of active safety. A new and unused helmet is more firm, the material is breathable, you generally feel better wearing it. And that definitely helps in preventing an accident. So from that standpoint, I would say that it's all a matter of specific use. I would still like some scientific data on the impact protection after 5 years though, to see what's what
+NtGism Exactly my point (but put better/more succinctly) - we need some proper data on this, gleaned from tests carried out with some science behind them by an independent body....
i would say that it all depends on the way the helmet was used. i personally buy a new helmet in two cases: 1. the helmet is getting loose; 2. i've seen a helmet that i like more than the one i have :)
+Tema2K Both great reasons! Cheers....TMF
@@TheMissendenFlyer im not sure if you'd see this, i have an arai debut that i stupidly dropped after thinking it would be safe hanging from my handlebars. Besides some scuff marks there doesnt seem to be any damage. Iyo do you think its still safe to use
Good video, I’m a bit late to the party on this one, but I prefer to buy a premium product and keep it longer just for the comfort and style factor if anything. The comfort of a premium lid is ‘usually’ better than a cheaper one though there are some exceptions.
Agreed!
My dirt bike helmet has been through a few crashes, and the bit near the air inlet at the very tip of the jaw all the rubber inside there is now falling off due to a stick ripping it open and now it won't stop falling out. Pretty sure I should replace it but I wanna hang on to it for a little longer so I can find a good deal, just asking if I should replace right now or could I wait another 6 months?
+Jerry._.Bruh Your call Jerry, only you know how bad it really is, I would hate to pretend to be qualified to advise!
almost a year late..i have a nolan n104 which i only wear on long rides so that's safe to say i prob used in about 20 times in 2 years and apart from changing the face shield i see no reason to change the helmet anytime soon..
the only consideration would be something significantly quieter or lighter but that's more of a want than a need
Yep, makes sense, thanks for watching and for stopping by - TMF
Do new helmets have a date of manufacture printed on them somewhere? My mate just got a great discount on a Bell with a discontinued design - has it been sat in a shop degrading for 3 years? Like you say, all about personal judgement until proper scientific tests done.
+belfasthuwcyn Huw ....sadly they don't seem to (at least my four helmets don't)......would be a good idea though wouldn't it...
Fully agree on the personal judgement thing......Amongst it being a common sense thing if a particular helmut you own has been used thoughrouly and is possibly looking and feeling a tad tired then after a few years it will be of no great pains to replace it but like yaself I have more than one helmut and in particular my more expensive Shark....which is worn only if I'm doing long Rideouts or meets and more often than not at weekends....it is looked after...always bagged and kept in my house. . ..its it stays that way then I would probably not consider replacing it after just five years....maybe a couple of years more than that......where as I use a far cheaper ls2 helmut every day for work and local hooning about.....its still looked after but suffers alot more wear so I would expect to renew that in about 3 to four years depending on how it feels and overall condition. ..
A big interesting subject is this and well worth looking into...
RSM.
+WEGGY zx12r Cheers Weggyzx12r I'm glad we're in agreement, as you say, quite a controversial subject and I'm certainly no expert....so one for us all to consider carefully. Thanks for stopping by - all the best - TMF
personal thought is if you only ride once or twice a month then change the lid when you get board with it but if you ride every day wind rain sun cold then keep to the 5 year manufactures idea
+Andrew Bale Sounds like a good plan to me! Cheers for stopping by - all the best - TMF
A friend of mine low sided and grazed his helmet slightly. Do you think it needs changing if there wasn't a full blown impact? I would love to know if there are any companies near London that can appraise a Shoei helmet. I don't think it's easy to tell whether the EPS liner has been compromised from a minor spill. Having said that, I personally don't think it's worth the risk and would change the helmet. I think changing your helmet should also depends on frequency of use. As a weekend rider my helmet wouldn't have had anywhere near as much usage in comparison to an everyday commuter, therefore maybe that should be factored in as a consideration.
+TripleTorque Yeah I agree with your last point and I think you answered your own question on your pal's helmet. If I'd had an off with my head in the helmet, and the helmet ended up contacting the deck, I think I would replace....best to err on the cautious side. I have a personal saying I use when assessing any safety matters in my flying "if there's doubt, there's no doubt" and it's kept me safe so far...think the same applies here. All the best - TMF.
PS when I was looking into buying a flip up ("modular") helmet, I noticed that the BMW System 6 newer evo version actually received a lower Sharp rating than it's predecessors!
+Nick Laskaris ...well that's a bit pants! I'm not ready for a flip up yet, maybe if I get an RT in the future :0)
If it still feels nice and tight, has no damage and is well looked after I'd keep hold of it. Manufacturers obviously want you to buy new but like you said if your spending £500-£600 it should last longer. You've made me think now, I've had mine about 6 years. Safety is number one priority!
+FireBlade Rider Yeah time flies doesn't it - in my mind this is still a "new" helmet! You reminded me actually, I forgot to say in the video, the number 1 factor with helmets is of course the right fit - an older good fitting helmet will do you more favours than a brand new loose one!! Cheers for stopping by, all the best - TMF
Hello. Your helmet looks really good after 5 years. I would cert keep it longer if straps are still intact. My gt-air shoei will need changing after 2.5yrs as straps are showing signs of daily use due to commuting. I have X4 Arai but keeping it for longer trips and weekend ride outs.
+Pawel Kisiel Hi Pawel - good to hear from you - and yes, my Shoei is completely in tact so I will be keeping her for a while longer yet. I love my Tour X4 - will be gutted when the time comes to bin that one!
Very interesting topic. I just like having a change of a the helmet the same way some people like to have different shoes lol I've dropped both my current helmets and sadly crashed in both (but the helmet didn't come into contact with the ground in the crashed). So since they've been a little abused, I'm looking at changing them, but I know of some riders who are weekend summer worriers and they've have the same helmet for 10 years. But people will make their own calls when it comes to it :/
+MorryMoto exactly, thanks for watching and for stopping by, all the best - TMF
Well Done & thorough !!!
I believe SHOEI will X-ray your helmet for free every 2yrs, too...
& other manufacturers may do similar (RF1100 is mine)
;)
Also, if you Auto-Cross or Track Cars, make sure it's rated Snell 10, or Motor Club approved.
Not all Motorcycle Helmets are sufficiently rated for Auto racing, if you want to use for both
+Dracati Ducati I didn't know there was a difference in car v bike - so thanks for that....and good to hear from you again DD, it's been a while!
I think while in storage, awaiting to be sold, helmets also get some deterioration, so they should have a manufacturing date, unless it's 5 years from purchase, wich I found odd.
Yes 5 years from manufacture would make more sense....
Personally I have always changed at 3 Years max, with the exception of Shark as their liners lose shape very fast, I do however keep a helmet for wet weather and that is changed annually
+Colin “OldFart” Sounds like a good plan....
Great video as always Flyer. I just want to pass along something I've experienced. I live in a hot climate (Florida) and had one of my helmets out in the garage (un-air conditioned) with my bike. I went to put it on one day to discover the lining had disintegrated especially at the top, I would imagine from being in the heat. The clothes dryer is also in the garage so that probably doesn't help. Needless to say I keep my helmets in the house now and I would advise anyone to do the same.
Blimey - that's an issue I'll never have to worry about!
My Arai to date has,nt been dropped or crashed , so why should i replace, maybe too much business retoric from said companys..or am i wrong ?
If you've looked after it, then I see no reason to bin it too early...
I have an 5year old helmet and it has been stored for 3 of those years in a black plastic bag in a cool cellar..never dropped or been in an accident..gonna keep it couple of more years..oh and i dont drive that much year anyway..
+Ronny Stormo Fair do's!
By a coincidence I changed mine recently. I also did some research and learnt that the polycarbonate degrades significantly over time. On a Web forum, one contributor had the job of destroying old helmets (so that no-one could possibly acquire them and then have a serious, even fatal, accident etc.), and found the five or six year (plus) old ones were far more brittle and could quite easily be smashed to smithereens !
I intend to take care of my new helmet, even though it was only cheap and cheerful - when I win this elusive National Lottery I will purchase a Shoei or an Arai then !
Interesting.....and yes the "premium" brands are getting stupidly expensive, I can't help thinking there's an element of "paying for the name" with these guys - although they do make great lids their margins must be much greater than the "lesser" brands that still seem to make a profit on a sub £300 helmet...thanks for stopping by, all the best - TMF
Another good video, TMF. To me it's just like buying a used motorcycle. Something which has been well cared for, had little use and is in tip top condition, will always trump something newer, that's been used and abused on a daily basis. I have five crash helmets at the moment. All have had light use. And I won't even let people touch them, I'm so caring of their condition. I'll replace them sympathetically when I feel the time is right to retire them. I'm about to buy a sixth, so I'd better start! :-D
+Richard Dunn I'm with you Richard - I can't see me binning any of my helmets for at least a couple more years (unless something bad happens in the meantime!!)...good to hear from you again, all the best - TMF
Hi. A very interesting topic- it makes me shudder when I remember a couple of my own helmets from back in the day.
Which brings me onto the subject of 'Airvests'. After initially looking for a HiVis vest I eventually purchased a Helite Airvest, with which I'm evtremely happy with. I feel I owe it to myself to take my safety seriously and to minimise the severity of any accident I may have in the future.
We all have cars with airbags and we wouldn't dream of not using the seatbelt in a car so why not use an Airvest. It might sound alien now but I believe it's a 'no brainer'.
+John “Johnnyblot” Ball ....I like the idea of an airvest but aren't they a faff to connect up to the bike? Very expensive and so on??....what sort did you get and how practical is it??
+TheMissendenFlyer I bought the Turtle back which has armour added in the back making it even better. (There are videos on UA-cam). I take your point about being a faff as I've taken the armour out of the back of my jacket to make it more comfortable.
However when wearing it you don't know you've got it on. The lanyard is clipped to the cord attached to the frame at the front of yr seat. You do have to remember to attach/detach yrself. Which I'm hoping will become normal routine eventually.
Tbh I've not been out recently because of high winds. But I'm planning to ride to Morocco and back in April so I will be using it.
+John “Johnnyblot” Ball ....interesting - I do like the idea of these but I know from using my heated gloves that it's such a faff connecting and disconnecting and worrying if the connection is still good and so on I end up not using them - it would be a shame to go to al the expense of buying one of these to then not use it....Morocco trip sounds like fun...enjoy!
+TheMissendenFlyer that's right- it would be a shame not to use it. But hopefully it will become routine after putting my jacket on?? My own personal motivation for this piece of kit is that I owe it to myself and my family to dramatically increase my chances of survival and/or serious injury should I have a serious accident.
Although it's an expensive piece of kit- I will only buy it once (hopefully never need it). Even if it's used the gas cartridge is easily replaced by myself.
One point I would make- which relates to the crash helmet, is that once the vest has been activated/inflated the helmet is held firm. Stopping the tendency of your head flailing around like a 'noddy-dog'. Thus reducing neck injuries.... I hope??? and of course the GS has heated grips :-).
Just a thought TMF, but when you buy a new helmet, it could have been sitting in the shop for 6 months before they discounted it and you bought it on special offer. Therefore is this recommendation about 5 years in the real world or about a shelf life from new?
+bleepbooster That thought had indeed occurred to me - it should be five years from manufacture for this very reason (if logic prevailed) but I think the manufacturers say five years from purchase....which makes no sense at all!!
Just ordered a Shoei neotec . About $600 here in the US. It will be replacing my 12 year old Nolan. Now that I'm on a new T120, I needed a better helmet for wind noise. I hope it is better than the Nolan!
I imagine it will be....
Have a look at the Sharp website for helmets at sharp.dft.gov.uk. When you look at the modular helmets you notice that some of them will flip open when impacted. Sharp test this and give a score on the failure rate. Even an expensive Shoei fails 8% of the time. Some helmets tested never flipped open during testing. But then you look at the other safety scores and often they compromise other parts of the helmet to try and keep the weight down. As a result side impact can be very weak. Modular helmets are generally very heavy and this must also have an impact on neck injuries. A heavier head has more momentum in a crash. That can't be good.
I came to the conclusion that they are ok if you are riding them around town and not doing high speeds, but if you are on freeway doing 80kmh plus, the risk a helmet can flip open is unacceptable.
yes wise words tmf, totally agree, mine cost me £500 and will certainly keep it more than 5 years, I look after it well though, maybe another indication could be how many miles the helmet actually does?. exposing it to the weather ect. I noticed you've changed the seat on your street triple !!.
+Peter Gunton Yes, total hours of use (and in what conditions) must have a bearing on materials degradation - we need proper scientific testing and results! ....and well spotted, changed the STR back to the Triumph gel seat for a change....
I´ve got my X-Lite X701 Helmet for five years now. I did wear it under every condition (rain, snow, mediterranian sun...) and it fell off the bike twice now...not too bad though. This winter I´m gonna buy a new one. BUT I will choose between a X-Lite or a Schuberth helmet because they are almost the only companies who produce their helmets in Europe. X-Lite in Italy, Schuberth in Germany. The other brands (AGV, Shoei, you name it) are producing their helmets in China or Korea.
I forgot, Nexx is producing in Portugal but I dont like the looks of it ;)
cheers
Fair enough!
I've a AGV K3 went to a Yamaha dealer in my area and they said I should change the helmet every two years your thoughts on what they said
I think they're just trying to sell you a new helmet, general recommendation is 5 years (and I would even question that as it comes from manufacturers!!)...
Interesting question TMF, one could argue that motorbikes in general have gotten safer over the last five years, does that mean all older bikes should be discarded?
I would tend to agree with you, if it hasn't been abused is in good condition then why not continue to use it until such time there is categoric evidence presented to us
that suggests we ought to discard them!
Oh yeah, I test rode a BMW R1200RT today, have to say it was mighty accomplished, seriously comfortable too, the biggest surprise (which you highlighted previously) it handled
really, really well, am I at that stage of my life when I need one, not sure, though it would make an excellent tourer, which is something I am hoping to do more of in the near future.
As always looking forward to your next video.
cheers
Tony
+antonoat Thanks Tony - I told you those RT's were good!
I replace every five years not just for degrading materials but also because of advancement in technology in safety and comfort. I treat the helmet like a smart phone- not quite a consumable but planned to be obsolete
As you've pointed out MF there are many factors involved here. I've tended to change mine around the 5 year mark, but that's more because I changed my bike than anything else. I don't use my helmet every day and it's kept in its carry bag in a cupboard away from uv light when not in use so being a premium end helmet it should last at least 5 years. As others have said I'd rather have an expensive one and change it less often. BTW you need a bigger man cave as it's starting to look untidy especially if you do get that RT at some stage.... All the best Ade
+adrianbarrie13 .....good to hear from you again Ade, I agree with all your points. With regards to the man-cave I was seeing how much space I could make by bunching the existing bikes up, there's room for at least another two bikes in there yet (six if I use both halves of the garage :0) ) May need you to talk to the wife though.....
Hi Sir! I never ever did know that a Helmet had a shelf life! I buy Nitro Helmets of that are Cheaper.but i didnt know you had to change in time! I was thinking they were for bikeing Life! So Sir! I was very interested to Come across your Video on this Subject.how old are the Helmets before you buy one! Meaning! How long have they been in the Shop, from the factory from where ever they come from in the world? So i gess its very much up to the individual if and when to change bike Gear! Thankyou Sir.
Glad I got you thinking Paul - thanks for watching!
Interesting. A helmet well taken care of is basically just exposed to the elements and wind.
Food for thought rock climbing gear ie: slings (not carabiners) have a 10 year shelf life.
I also hope to get more than 5 yrs. use from my "premium" helmet. In Canada we are lucky if we get 6 or 7 months from our bikes, so my helmet sits on a shelf in it's bag in a warm, dry environment for 4-5 months at a time. So climate is another factor.
+Denis Gervais Indeed it is....thanks for stopping by! All the best - TMF (PS Which bit of Canada are you in??)
+TheMissendenFlyer From Calgary, Alberta
+Denis Gervais ....quite handy for the Rockies then, what a great bike trip that would be! Tell me you've done it????
I have a helmet that's around 14 years old (so pretty old) but after only about a year I started using another one and kept it indoors, away from heat sources in its cover. Any thoughts anyone? Bin it or keep it as a spare?
Your choice of course, I’d be tempted to keep as spare....
just got back into biking after an absence of 20 years and loving your videos. My ageing AGV helmet (over 20 years) looked great but the lining had disintegrated and was just powder- time for a new one
If it's had limited use, you've looked after it and it isn't showing any visible degradation I'd have no problems keeping and using a helmet for longer than 5 years. I'd personally be more comfortable wearing a high end, good quality helmet more than 5 years old than a brand new low end one. Just my 2p :)
+Ben Haskell Good point Ben - me too, just a matter of how long.......
Ben Haskell
Hi
OH the manufacturers say you should replace them every 5 years I WONDER WHY THAT COULD BE!!!
Exactly!
Made me think. My Kevlar Helmet was well over ten years old when i was blown up in Iraq !
I wonder if they have a shelf life ?
+Nigel Collinson Did it work? ...and there's your answer!
+TheMissendenFlyer could this be the simple reply to your video ?
as we've assatained it's clearly not. the question is,or was.... manufacturers suggest a five year shelf life. Applying the logic "Did it work" is rather worrying. as if it had not.......
great videos. keep them coming !
+Nigel Collinson indeed, cheers Nigel, willco and thanks for your kind words - ride safe - TMF
I've looked into this pretty extensively. Have not been about to document who was the first to suggest this standard. I suspect it was SALES guys, just wanting to sell more helmets. No replacement time frame suggested by US DOT regs on helmets. It's been suggested by one helmet marketing guy that Bell was the one that came up with this five year replacement, but that it was the designers and engineers, NOT sales. Still trying to run that down. Arai started making helmets one by one in the 40s, Bell started in 54 I think, but no one I contact with either company seems to know who started it. Is this codified in the ECE regs?
Dunno - you can be sure it came about by those with a vested interest though....
How about a helmet from '05 that's only been used for 10~ times (so brand new)?
Well personally I'd still use it but I guess technically the material could be getting brittle.....personal choice this one - be it on your head! (see what I did there?)
My head seems okay with it. It'll probably get replaced in a year or so for comfort and coolness reasons :). Thanks!