Phil (ascentale)@SRLevine asks:
Q4. How long do you keep a helmet that has neither been in an accident nor is expired? Assuming regular/daily use.
#BikeNiteQ #BikeNite #BikeTooter #Cycling #MastoBikes cc @bikenite
oheso@ascentale @SRLevine @bikenite
A4. Just posted this in a reply to Q1.
I've read various injunctions to replace after X years. Mostly I've assumed they're from helmet manufacturers trying to drive demand. But the point that the various fittings will get brittle with age and UV exposure is one well taken. The helmet will not be as effective if it flies off in an accident.
This is replacing a seven-year-old helmet that has probably seen a few drops and whacks, but not an actual accident or fall.
Karen E. Lund 💙💛@oheso @ascentale @SRLevine @bikenite Does that mean that helmets used frequently (say, commuting to and from work five days a week, all year) in a sunny place such as Arizona would need to be replaced more frequently than a helmet used for occasional recreation in New England only when there isn't much snow on the ground?
And if so, which scenario does the manufacturer's recommendation apply to?
LovesTha🥧@Karen5Lund @oheso @ascentale @SRLevine @bikenite safety device labelling has to be conservative. Some chance the guidelines are written for helmet is left in full sun all year, and if you keep it inside 23 hours every day it'll last longer, even in arizona.