One of Dad’s friends is giving away all his gear from when he was a rode bikes, and being the only friends he has who ride, me and my pa are getting the lion’s share of the gear.
Included in the haul is a brand-new, un-used Arai (don’t know what model), in Large (my size). However, it’s almost 10 years old, so is it suitable for riding with, and suitably protective, or is it just fit for the skip? I’ve heard you should replace a lid every five years or so, and that they have shelf lives. Does this ring true or is it’s immaculate state safe enough to keep my noggin protected?
Bear in mind it’s free too, which is nice.
You should replace it because UV light will degrade the material. However if it is been stored that should not be a problem.
However what would be a problem is that helmet design, research, development, construction and medical knowledge has moved on.
I would keep it and use it when one of the chains is having a trade in on helmets.
Just my £29 quids worth (it was 2p but inflation is a bitch).
P.S. The helmet is what stops your head turning in a red smear if it you have an off. Would you trust a ten year old helmet? I wouldn’t.
I have only recently bought a new lid because my previous one was 9 years old:w00t:
That was used regularly but looked as new. The cheek pads had been replaced twice but still works and sits in my garage ready for any track day i might venture on.
What im trying to say is so long as it is in good condition and fits you well then i would say us it.
You can always get Infinity or other chain to send it off to Arai to make sure it is in good nick, they will x-Ray it and send it back with a report.
Send it to Arai, and they can check it over for you?
I was told they do a free helmet check under their 5 star service and they will do all sorts of visual checks, X-ray etc… Then they will advise if you should bin it or keep it.
Edit: Just read the above post - and repeated what was said :Whistling:
the doctor just sent off his Arai to be looked at, only cost was £7.50 for the return postage. I’m with kev on this one though, I wouldn’t trust my head in it
this is a myth. phoenix (who is the Arai discributor in the UK) dont own a X-ray machine or get the helmets X-rayed off site. they will inspect the helmet visually inside and out and supply you with a letter/certificate to say if it is safe to use.
