Motorcycle Helmets - how old is too old?

When was the last time you checked if your helmet is due for a replacement? Did you know that even best of the best helmets have an “expiration date”? Most high end helmets are good for about five years past the date of manufacture. Lower end helmets expire even quicker than that, sometimes as quickly as two years. The helmet expires because the high density foam inside your helmet dries up over time becoming hard as a rock and no longer absorbs impact in case of a crash. The manufacturing date should be stamped on a sticker under your crown liner. Take a peek and make sure your helmet is still up to date. Sometimes that closeout helmet you got a great deal on has been sitting on a shelf for 3-4 years so despite it being a brand new purchase for you, it'll have to be replaced a lot sooner than you think. If you are due for an update, you’re in luck because there are a ton of great helmet options out at this time.

We were starting to believe that the highly anticipated Schuberth C4 helmets were a myth like the Loch Ness Monster but after months and months of delays, the helmets finally showed up at our doors. Yes, the C4 helmets do live up to their hype. Great overall fit, finish and quality. Check out the C4 collection here and stop by the store to take one of the C4’s out for a test ride.

Shoei continue to impress with their helmet graphics, releasing several new RF-1200 and GT-Air graphics. The details of these graphics are impossible to fully view on even the highest quality images. They have to be seen in person to be fully appreciated. The details are incredible.

Last but not least, HJC has delivered another RPHA series hit with the release of a new sport-touring model, the RPHA 70 ST. This helmet is comparable to the Shoei GT Air and has very similar features including a drop down sun visor, anti-fog Pinlock lens insert, five year warranty and optimal aerodynamics for upright riding position. We’re extremely impressed with the quality of this helmet. It has a very high-end feel and finish. The visor and sun shield mechanisms operate extremely smoothly which is a huge improvement over the slightly clunky feel of the previous generation RPHA ST. The interior liner feels incredibly comfortable and now offers an emergency release of the cheek pads, making it easy for EMT’s to remove the helmet off the rider’s head in case of emergencies. Great new release from our Korean friends at HJC.

With so many great new helmet options on the market, shopping for a new helmet should be a pleasure not a chore. Treat yourself!

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