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Is a 20 Year Old Helmet Still Good?

  • 26 Feb 2024
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Motorcycle helmets are a crucial part of your riding gear. They protect your head in case of an accident and shield you from the elements while riding. However, many riders often wonder about the lifespan of their motorcycle helmets. A common question arises: "Is a 20 year old helmet still good?" This blog post aims to answer this question and shed light on the importance of timely replacement of motorcycle helmets.

The Lifespan of Motorcycle Helmets


Most manufacturers recommend replacing your motorcycle helmet every five years. The Snell Memorial Foundation, which has been setting safety standards for helmets since 1957, also supports this recommendation. But why is there such a specific timeline?

Motorcycle helmets are made from materials that degrade over time. The outer shell might be made from plastic or fibreglass, while the inner liner is usually constructed from expanded polystyrene (EPS). These materials can deteriorate due to various factors like exposure to sunlight, sweat, cosmetics, and even the oils on your skin.

Over time, this degradation can compromise the helmet's ability to protect you in case of an accident. Even if the helmet appears to be in good condition externally, internal damage may not be visible to the naked eye.


Why a 20 Year Old Helmet Might Not Be Safe


While it's tempting to hold onto that vintage helmet for its sentimental value or aesthetic appeal, using a 20-year-old motorcycle helmet can be risky for several reasons:

1. Material Degradation: As mentioned earlier, the materials used in motorcycle helmets degrade over time. After two decades, it's highly likely that the outer shell and inner lining have significantly deteriorated.

2. Technological Advancements: Helmet technology has advanced significantly over the past two decades. Modern helmets offer better protection and comfort features compared to older models. They are designed to absorb more impact, offer better ventilation, and are often lighter.

3. Outdated Safety Standards: Motorcycle helmet safety standards have evolved over the years. A helmet that was considered safe 20 years ago might not meet current safety standards.

4. Unknown History: Unless you've owned the helmet since it was new, you can't know its history. It could have been dropped or involved in an accident, which could compromise its integrity.


When Should You Replace Your Motorcycle Helmet?


While the five-year rule is a good guideline, several factors can necessitate an earlier replacement:

1. After a Crash: If you've been involved in an accident while wearing your helmet, it's time for a new one. Even if there's no visible damage, the helmet's ability to absorb impact may have been compromised.

2. Visible Damage: If there are visible signs of wear and tear, like cracks or loose padding, it's time to replace your helmet.

3. Poor Fit: The padding inside your helmet can compress over time, leading to a loose fit. A poorly fitting helmet won't provide optimal protection.

4. Technological Upgrades: If newer models offer significantly better safety features or comfort improvements, it might be worth upgrading even if your current helmet is less than five years old.

While it may seem economical or nostalgic to keep using an old motorcycle helmet, safety should always be your top priority when riding a motorcycle. A 20-year-old motorcycle helmet is unlikely to provide the level of protection you need in case of an accident due to material degradation and outdated technology.

Remember that a motorcycle helmet is not just a piece of gear; it's an investment in your safety and life preservation on the road. Regularly replacing your motorcycle helmets ensures that you're benefiting from the latest safety advancements and that your gear is in optimal condition to protect you when needed most.

Check out our full range of products, including full face motorcycle helmets, open face motorcycle helmets, flip front motorcycle helmets, off road motorcycle helmets and motorcycle helmets, available online or by visiting our Darwen store today. If you have any questions regarding any of our ranges, please call our customer service team at Race Leathers at 01254 704 000 and we will be more than happy to help.

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