Serowbot, I sure hope you ain't still using the helmet that you had your accident in. If so you're playing with fire.

It has been well established that after a wreck you should replace the helmet. Once it has hit the deck with that kind of force though it doesn't look like it it no longer has it's crash integrity.

I would replace it asap.

Serow if your helmet took a good enough hit that it actually saved your life REPLACE IT!

The foam part of the helmet is made for one-time use unless it is made with EPP foam (even if it was made with EPP foam you are still rolling the dice) after crushing the foam once it is no longer as protective as it was, even if the shell looks to be intact. The thin shell is made to flex and keep everything in it's place as well as act as exterior armor, the foam inside which is the impact absorber could be completely compacted or cracked loosing it's functionality without you knowing at all.  If the foam is compacted and you take an impact in the same area it will not protect you properly, if it is cracked it will just break apart upon the next impact giving little or no protection.

Some manufacturers will take the helmet back and inspect it for you, if found defective due to the crash some will even give you a credit or sell you a replacement at a reduced profit.

Always replace a crashed helmet if you value it's protection

Yeah, I believe the you gotta replace the helmet after the slightest bump is from the people who SELL helmets. Thats pretty much self serving.

I got a helmet out in the garage thats 43 years old. Its never been in a crash but I don't wear it. I keep it just because.

Dang, they ran over your Sportster. Now that ain't right.

I personally would not ride without a full face, experience has taught me that.


I actually just started another thread were i mentioned my new helmet, but I'll bring it up here again. I "used" the HJC above on 2 separate occasions, the last of which broke the visor hardware. I've been using a 20 year old undersized shoei for a while but finally decided to get a real replacement. I got a KBC for $44 plus shipping (free shipping over $89) everyone seems to recommend getting a size larger b/c they are a bit snug, but it seems to be a great helmet so far!
http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com/14/67/905/38243/ITEM/KBC-VR-Helmet.aspx

I struggle to understand how people dont take their helmets seriously. Maybe its just because they have not been touched by a brain injury but seriously guys! Put on a helmet, it could save your family from having to spoon feed you for the rest of your life. I know I sound reduculous but I will get off my soap box now and will only say one more thing...
Got a $5 head, get a $5 helmet.

Its not you its them! four wheelers are blind!

Serowbot; you have already saved me at least $5 I will let you have a $10 one just cause Im feeling nice today!