With April being Motorcycle Helmet Safety Month, now is a good time to check your lid. Below is a simple checklist to make sure your helmet is still good to go.
- Is your motorcycle helmet 5 years or older? Most manufacturers state that you should replace your helmet every 3-5 years. Many folks think that is nothing but a money grab. However, your head is protected by a Styrofoam like substance, called expanded polystyrene foam or EPS, that does degrade over time. You need to be the judge of how your head is protected.
- Is there any visible damage to the helmet? Did you drop your motorcycle helmet that may have compressed the EPS liner? Is the shell cracked or scuffed nearly through the shell?
- Does your helmet fit? A proper fitting helmet is critical to its ability to protect the rider. If the helmet moves around or slides back and forth it is a good idea to find a helmet that fits properly.
- Are the straps and connectors still in good and operational condition?
- Does the internal padding stay attach and is it in good condition?
- Remove the padding and look at the EPS foam. Is it in one piece? Is it cracked or dented?
- Is your visor still in good working condition? Are there any issues that might obscure your vision?
- Make sure there are no insects or animals living in your helmet. That is poisonous black widow spider in the picture below.
Ride On, Ride Safe
