But owing to the longer period of use you start to question its safety level. Has it expired and does the helmet expire? And why do manufacturers not indicate the motorcycle expiry date on the shell?
That’s the essence of this post!
Do Helmets Have their Expiry Dates Stamped on Them?
In short, helmets do not have precise expiry dates stamped on them. Instead, certified hoods do have the manufactured date indicated somewhere on them.
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Helmet manufacturers do not stamp expiry dates on the lids because it isn’t easy to foretell the exact expiration time. However, the stated manufactured date helps gauge its expiry time.
How Long Does the Helmet Expiry Last?
Helmets eventually reach a point where they no longer provide optimal protection. And when that happens, we say the helmet has expired and its safety level compromised.
Generally, experts suggest that helmets expire after about 3 to 5 years from their manufactured date.
But the expiry duration of one helmet isn’t the same as another. Several factors influence the length of the expiration period. A helmet should be kept in a cool and dark place. Poor storage shortens that period.
Also, the everyday wear and tear contributes to that expiration. As the harsh elements of weather meet the helmet, it degrades in quality slowly. Besides, the occasional knocks and drops weaken it. The more frequently you subject your helmet to use, the faster it degrades in quality.
How Do I Know It's Time to Replace My Helmet or It Has Expired?
The purpose of wearing a helmet is to give you the maximum possible protection. And only the hood that is in its prime condition offers that degree of protection.
According to research, most helmets generally reach their expiration date between 3 to 5 years. The daily use, wear and tear on the helmet after that period will have significantly degraded its condition. So, Helmet Gurus also advises that you replace your new helmet after about 5 years of use.
But if you suffer a motorcycle crash, you must replace the hood even if you escaped unhurt. Further, if the lid has visible cracks or dents you better replace it. Otherwise, it may give way in the next crash and expose your skull to the ground.
Why is it Advisable to Replace an Expired Helmet Regardless of Its Outside Appearance?
Consider replacing your helmet after 3 to 5 years, regardless of its physical appearance. In most cases, it would have suffered significant degradation due to routine use.
Most probably the EPS padding and the fit could have changed, giving way to less protection. And helmet construction technology is ever-changing. Upgrading to a new helmet that packs the latest technology seems a wise idea.
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Even the best modular motorcycle helmet expires or degrades significantly in its efficiency after 3 to 5 years of normal use. The exact lifespan of your hood depends on the initial material, how you keep it, the frequency of use, and whether you have suffered a crash or not. The more years your helmet has taken, the less efficient it becomes in withstanding impacts.
