by Gareth Wild

Created on: August 28, 2008   Last Updated: April 27, 2009

The reason that you shouldn't buy a used motorcycle helmet is due to the fact that you have no knowledge of the history of the item. Helmets once dropped get internally damaged, this damage is not always obvious. The damage is normally to the internal structure which is what you rely on to protect you in the event of an accident. With the second hand helmet you have no idea if it is going to offer you the protection you require or not. The time you find out if it is damaged is when it is in the accident with you hoping that there was no damage. The damage will reveal itself under the impact of an accident by either splitting or cracking when any previous damage may have occurred. When buying a helmet it is always advisable to try it on before you buy. Buying second hand can be done mail order so you have no idea if the fit will be correct or not.

Buying the helmet second hand may save you money but what price can you put on your life. A new helmet has the guarantee that it is undamaged and will help to save you from a serious head injury. The second hand helmet is cheap and is cheap for a reason and that is that it will most likely not offer much protection in an accident. The only real way to know if a helmet has any damage would be via an x ray, the cost to have this done would far outweigh the saving you could make buying second hand. So therefore the best and only way to ensure the helmet is safe and undamaged is to buy a new one. Straps wear out too as does the lining so all these need to be checked too. Always make sure the helmet has the ACU approved (Auto Cycle Union) stickers on saying the suitability of use. Gold rated are the best, this allows for race track use as well as road use.

Also the previous owner of the helmet while wearing it will have altered the shape of the inside to suit their own skull shape. The helmet probably wont be very comfortable to wear for long due to this fact. Buying a helmet new and wearing it will shape itself to your head and therefore be much more comfortable to wear for long periods of time. Comfort is important when riding as a helmet which is too tight or loose can cause you to be concentrating on the road less. Headaches can also be caused in this way too. Helmets need to be a close fit but not loose or tight as safety in an accident will be compromised.

Second hand helmets may not have been dropped or damaged but are you prepared to find out just to save yourself some money. So dont buy helmets second hand if you value your life and comfort.

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