Re: [St] Helmet age...

[JES_VFR <jes_vfr@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

At 01:46 PM 12/24/2008, you wrote:
> Helmet manufacturers say a helmet is only good for so many years, 
> after that the "stuff" inside breaks down and it no longer provides 
> protection. I never really did believe this, but when I called Shoei 
> to inquire about a new face shield for my old RF-200, I was told 
> that they were no longer made because the helmet it would be used on 
> would no longer be safe protection. With, the little flashing red " 
> bullshit" indicator in the corner of my eye went off on full blast. 
> Is there any truth to this, or do helemt manufacturers just want to 
> sell more helmets?
>
> I find it hard to believe that with today's plastics technology that 
> the helemt innards just lose whatever quality it is that makes them 
> protective...
>
> Opinions please.
>
> Merry Christmas to All !!
>
> John

Fumes, UV light, Heat, Sweat (and the bacteria that grow in it), as 
well as just plain use, all contribute to the decay of a helmet.
I've seen two year old helmets that were rotting out inside (recently 
by the way). I have also seen 7 year old helmets that looked (and 
smelled) like new.

But the manufacturers all say about 5 years then replace no matter what.

I can tell you my last HJC lasted about 5.5 years before the foam on 
the chin bar, just gave up and fell out.

So I can kind of see why a Shoei would stop making a face shield for 
an older model, like the RF-200 (I bought one all the way back in 1992).
I don't know how old your RF is, but I would seriously consider 
replacing that old thing.

I say this not as a parts and accessories guy that is going to make a 
dime on you, but as another rider.
I would not put my head in that lid, I'd get a new one.

Heck at this point, even a really cheapie, like a bell or a vega lid 
would be better than the old RF-200.

Think about it like this,
Would you want to ride around on 5 year old tires, then why trust you 
precious brain to 5 year old styrofoam??



JohnS
A Dragon Ascending
"Forging my body in the Fires of my Will"

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