So I have a Shoei XR-1000 which I've owned for 9 years now. I average around 3-4,000 road miles and 6 trackdays a year. It's not been dropped hard, although fell off the bike once though (oops!) I've read that you should replace a helmet after 5 years with average use. Do I need to replace mine?
I've just been thinking the same thing but I've had mine 4 years now. The neck roll thing is knackered but I can get a replacement for £30 vs a £500 new helmet. It's my life at the end of the day so I would rather get a new one if needed, but is it needed yet?
Replace when you feel it's necessary. Only you will know what kind of life your helmet has had. Don't rely on a given lifespan, rely on knowledge imho.
I have a selection of lids here and only do about 1000-1500 miles per year so in my opinion my lids are all fine even the oldest ones, however most manufacturers recommend 5 years which is a bit shit when that lid could have been sat in a shop for 3 of those years in a storeroom!
The 5 years is a Snell Foundation recommendation. At one time only Arai gave a warranty that covered the full 5 years. Even with an Arai ( I've got 4 plus 2 Shoei's ) you still need to go by the history, which is why I'd never buy a secondhand lid.
I've not heard this before, surely they would develop different materials to use so this does not happen? If this is the case, mine must be knackered as I sweat like feck in my helmet!
Sweat will ruin the lining if left uncleaned but wouldn't affect the structural integrity of the helmet itself. I know it's something to do with the glues breaking down and time affecting the other materials, but if well looked after and not massively used surely I should get more than 5 years from it?! I think I might start looking around next year, that would make it 10 years' usage. Fancy a Shoei NXR...
I've read it somewhere about the sweat attacking the helmet inner , probably need the lining changed. Will try google it
Yes, if you're a sweaty head and don't keep the lining cleaned it will need replacing (if replaceable). I clean mine every now and then with my kids shampoo, rinse it well and let it air dry. Does the job.
I think it's to do with the polystyrene liner breaking down. It hardens over time reducing the shock resistance required in a tumble.
