Posted: 11/23/2016 1:19:33 PM EDT
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How often do you replace your motorcycle helmet? I know the various manufacturers recommend replacement after 3-5 years of use.
I currently have three helmets: A "Crazy Al's" half-helmet that is used primarily when it is not balls-freezing cold out that I have had for about 2-3 years; a Shoei Multitec (modular) that is my "winter" helmet that I have had for about 5 years, and an Icon "Speedfreak" full-face helmet that was my first helmet (6 years). I don't really use that one much anymore..last time it was used was by my son when he was a passenger two years ago. I've been looking at new helmets, and thinking about moving away from the half-helmet and into a 3/4 Shoei J-Cruise so that I can add a bluetooth audio system for music when I ride, as well as added protection. The drawback is that I doubt that I can fit the helmet in my saddlebag when parked. The added plus is that, with the use of a scarf or balaclava, the 3/4 helmet could be a year round helmet. |
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I have worn helmets that were older than 5 years, but that was just because I was getting back into riding after years away and hadn't picked out a new one yet. The reasoning behind the 5 year replacement is that the materials will degrade over time and with exposure to the elements and therefore may not perform as well in a crash as it should. Comparing new helmets to older ones, the advancements in comfort and protection of newer helmets is enough to justify replacing every 5 years even if the materials maintain integrity (imho). |
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Quoted: cut straps and chin bar off so it cant be used, then trash Quoted: Quoted: What do you do with your old helmets? Just throw them in the trash or some how recycle them? cut straps and chin bar off so it cant be used, then trash I do the same when I get rid of old helmets. Also a good idea to replace if the helmet gets dropped/knocked off the bike on a frequent basis. |
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I am looking at getting a new helmet, as my two main helmets are pushing 5 years of use, and both have been dropped from the bike a couple of times. I currently wear a half-helmet from Crazy Al's (spring/summer/fall), and a Shoei Multitech modular helmet (winter/inclement weather helmet) that I love. I am considering combining the best of both worlds and getting a 3/4 helmet for year-round use. I have narrowed the choice down to either the Nolan N44, Schuberth M1, or the Shoei J-Cruise.
It looks like the main differences are that the Nolan comes with the removable chin guard, and is set up to accept the N-Com system. The N-Com is not a deal breaker for me, since a friend has the Nolan and hated the N-Com...she actually installed a Sena system in hers. Unfortunately, her head is tiny and I could not try the helmet. The Schuberth has speakers and mikes pre-installed, but you have to buy the rest of the system separately. All three helmets accept the Pinlock system, which I use on my Multitech and is a lifesaver in the winter. All three have the flip-down sunshades and removable liners. My questions are: How well do 3/4 helmets do in the winter? I have neckwraps/balaclavas that I can wear with the helmet if need be. How hot are they in the summer as compared to a half-helmet? Does anyone here have any experience with these helmets? |
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Quoted: This. 3/4 helmets are missing the most important part. Quoted: Quoted: 3/4 helmet? Fuck no. Unless you want to lose your chin. Look for the diagram that shows what part of the helmet takes the hit. Might as well wear a half helmet. |
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Quoted:
I am looking at getting a new helmet, as my two main helmets are pushing 5 years of use, and both have been dropped from the bike a couple of times. I currently wear a half-helmet from Crazy Al's (spring/summer/fall), and a Shoei Multitech modular helmet (winter/inclement weather helmet) that I love. I am considering combining the best of both worlds and getting a 3/4 helmet for year-round use. I have narrowed the choice down to either the Nolan N44, Schuberth M1, or the Shoei J-Cruise. It looks like the main differences are that the Nolan comes with the removable chin guard, and is set up to accept the N-Com system. The N-Com is not a deal breaker for me, since a friend has the Nolan and hated the N-Com...she actually installed a Sena system in hers. Unfortunately, her head is tiny and I could not try the helmet. The Schuberth has speakers and mikes pre-installed, but you have to buy the rest of the system separately. All three helmets accept the Pinlock system, which I use on my Multitech and is a lifesaver in the winter. All three have the flip-down sunshades and removable liners. My questions are: How well do 3/4 helmets do in the winter? I have neckwraps/balaclavas that I can wear with the helmet if need be. How hot are they in the summer as compared to a half-helmet? Does anyone here have any experience with these helmets? OK, here it is, just in case you haven't seen it. Look for the part of the helmet you want to go without. Notice it takes almost 4 times as many impacts as the other parts. 
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Quoted:
If the liner is starting to crumble, it is time to replace. 5-7 is a good target, but if you aren't abusive to your helmet and clean it often, it may last ten. I biffed one hard on an off road outing. I replaced it the next day. Well, my modular is starting to feel a little too loose, even with the strap cinched tight, and it has been dropped a few times from hand or seat height. I went with the Shoei J-Cruise, since Revzilla has a no hassle, no cost return policy if it does not fit. For the rest of you... Yes, I have seen the graphic before. 3/4 still provides more protection than a half-shell. I choose to accept the risks of not wearing a full face, as I don't take my 750cc Shadow on track days, nor am I out squidding around on the highway. I asked for opinions on the three helmets that I listed above, not a lecture on OHMAGERD! YUR GUNNA BREAK YOR FACE OFF!!!! |
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Quoted: Well, my modular is starting to feel a little too loose, even with the strap cinched tight, and it has been dropped a few times from hand or seat height. I went with the Shoei J-Cruise, since Revzilla has a no hassle, no cost return policy if it does not fit. For the rest of you... Yes, I have seen the graphic before. 3/4 still provides more protection than a half-shell. I choose to accept the risks of not wearing a full face, as I don't take my 750cc Shadow on track days, nor am I out squidding around on the highway. I asked for opinions on the three helmets that I listed above, not a lecture on OHMAGERD! YUR GUNNA BREAK YOR FACE OFF!!!! Quoted: Quoted: If the liner is starting to crumble, it is time to replace. 5-7 is a good target, but if you aren't abusive to your helmet and clean it often, it may last ten. I biffed one hard on an off road outing. I replaced it the next day. Well, my modular is starting to feel a little too loose, even with the strap cinched tight, and it has been dropped a few times from hand or seat height. I went with the Shoei J-Cruise, since Revzilla has a no hassle, no cost return policy if it does not fit. For the rest of you... Yes, I have seen the graphic before. 3/4 still provides more protection than a half-shell. I choose to accept the risks of not wearing a full face, as I don't take my 750cc Shadow on track days, nor am I out squidding around on the highway. I asked for opinions on the three helmets that I listed above, not a lecture on OHMAGERD! YUR GUNNA BREAK YOR FACE OFF!!!! Don't be defensive....we're trying to keep you from losing your ability to eat with teeth & a jaw, or possibly just be alive. I've been down twice, hard, on the road. BOTH times my chin took the brunt of the impact. Not the top, not the back, not the sides....the chin. Don't dare fate to teach you the value of that protection, it's a life-changing lesson. If you don't like a chin bar up against your snout and you want increased airflow, get a dual sport helmet. TONS of airflow, the visor is great in low-setting sun, and you forego no protection. |