Normally, for perishable elements the expired term is usually used, which refers to the fact that it can no longer be consumed because it is dangerous for our health. Well, with the motorcycle helmets we also have this expired term, although in this case it is not so defined, nor is it so clear, nor are the consequences the same.
And we say this because although it is true that the helmets have a useful life in which they offer us 100% of the protection with which they were designed, there are many other factors that can influence their durability. And they depend on both the type of helmet and the use that has been given, the conditions in which it has been stored …
Estimates of how long it takes to expire a helmet vary. For example, Motocard speaks of five years for polycarbonate (plastic) and between 7 and 8 fiber helmets, regardless of the type of fiber backed by different studies. However, these expiration ranges may vary depending on the factors that we mentioned before, and the useful life of the helmet can lengthen or shorten, making the helmet safe more or less time.
What is an expired helmet?
In fact, the concept of “expired helmet” is a bit complicated to make understand why aesthetically the helmet can be in perfect conditions externally. But helmets provide security for their ability to absorb impacts and not for aesthetic issues. And if the materials have deteriorated, no matter how much the helmet is seen in perfect condition, it will not be able to distribute the energy of an impact in the case of an accident.
As for the expiration date, as we said before, it is established in the five years for helmets with exterior polycarbonate and 7-8 for fiber calo. The important thing here is to know that this period starts when the helmet is manufactured and, therefore, you have to take into account its manufacturing date when buying it. How to know when it has been manufactured? Well generally inside or under the padded, there is a label with the manufacturing date.
How to extend the life of a helmet?
Well, this point is interesting and that the deterioration of the helmet will be more or less fast depending on the factors we commented at the beginning. If a helmet is being used every day, exposed to the sun, moisture … it will deteriorate more quickly.
If on the contrary we keep it saved, it is used occasionally, it does not give it the sunlight, it has continuous temperature conditions, its useful life will continue and it will be safe for longer. Obviously, if the helmet has received an impact due to fall and despite what it may seem aesthetically, it should be replaced immediately even though it has not reached time for its expiration.
