Purchasing biking helmets for sale that are pre-owned can be cost-effective, but confirming adequate safety takes diligence.
Used lids may seem intact, but probing examination verifies effectiveness securing your melon in the event of crashes.
When evaluating secondhand bicycle brain buckets ensure you ask sellers these 5 vital questions before handing over payment to guarantee protective performance similar to new options.
Does This Bike Helmet Meet Safety Standards?
While a pre-worn bicycle helmet may appear durable, only trained eyes can truly detect manufacturing shortcomings impacting safety. Request evidence from the seller that any potential purchase meets standards from:
- Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) – Safety regulatory agency providing standards in the United States
- European Committee for Standardization (CEN) – European standards body governing PPE effectiveness
Study the helmet for sticker decals indicating compliance certification from such safety bodies. This validates construction specs like:
- Shock absorbing liner material
- Retention system strength
- Rigorous physical impact testing
Without proof of adherence to such protocols, the cranium cover offers dubious protection.
Does This Helmet Properly Fit My Head Size?
An ill-fitting bicycle lid dangerously jostles upon impact. Confirm dimensional appropriateness using sizing pads that match your head circumference.
Measure around your head straight above the eyebrows and match it to helmet pad specs listed in centimeters.
For example:
- 21.75 inches = 55 centimeters
- 23 inches = 58 centimeters
Compare such cranial measurements against the model’s fit guidance to determine suitability. Improper bike bowl fit jeopardizes safety.
How Old Is This Helmet? Has It Exceeded The Expiration Date?
Helmet components degrade over time. Inquire on manufacturing date to ensure the unit falls within expiration guidance.
The protective shell and shock-absorbing liner feature finite lifespans of around 5-10 years. Purchase lids exceeding such chronological cutoffs knowingly.
Seek out expiration timelines from specific makers like Bell, Giro, and Specialized. Avoid dinosaurs whose age hinders protective capacities during crashes.
Does The Helmet Show Any Signs Of Damage?
While used helmets may skip the sticker shock, buyers sacrifice insight on past trauma altering safety capabilities. Purposefully inspect secondhand lids for:
- Cracks – Fissures compromising structural integrity
- Dents – Deformations lessening impact resistance
- Delamination – Inner/outer layer separation
- Broken retention system – Straps/adjustment issues
Request photographs of the helmet without padding showcasing the hidden EPS foam liner condition. One deep gouge or crack and it is toast!
Do You Have The Original Care Instructions?
Manufacturers provide explicit directions on helmet cleaning methods and storage to bolster longevity. Confirm if secondhand sellers retain such documentation.
Review included guidance warning against placing lids:
- In hot vehicles degrading materials
- On hanging hooks distorting shape
- Near damaging chemicals fading color
Follow bespoke maker rules extending protective performance so your brain bucket ages gracefully as you wisely put mileage on two wheels!
In-Depth Safety Question Explanations
Below we elaborate on the context surrounding each prudent pre-purchase query to consider when evaluating pre-owned bicycle helmets:
Safety Standards Overview
| Country/Region | Standards Body | Safety Standard |
| United States | Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) | F1447 |
| European Union | European Committee for Standardization (CEN) | EN 1078 |
Why Do Standards Matter?
Independent bodies oversee rigorous physical and material tests determining minimum safety criteria for cycling helmets. Let’s review two prominent organizations.
Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)
This body administers F1447 safety protocols in the United States encompassing:
- Impact Attenuation – High mass weight dropped on samples assess minimizing forces.
- Compression Test – Helmet withstands heavy loads without contacting skull.
- Chinstrap Strength – Straps endure forces over 300 pounds.
European Committee for Standardization (CEN)
In the European Union, the EN 1078 standard governs production specifications like:
- Shock Absorption – Impacts against flat anvils at nearly 15 MPH.
- Penetration Resistance – Pointy piercing hazards unable to compromise construction.
- Retention System Durability – Chinstraps endure stresses beyond fracture.
When purchasing a bicycle helmet ensure sellers confirm compliance to demonstrate adequate safety!
Sizing And Fit
An improperly sized helmet jeopardizes protection. Here are key factors when finding your right fit:
- Match internal pad circumference to head size (in centimeters).
- Pads should feel snug all around with no pressure points.
- Measure just above eyebrows around forehead and ears.
- Helmet should remain stationary when shaking head aggressively.
Use the included fitting instructions and sizing pads to hone an appropriate and safe diminsion based on your cranium!
Helmet Age And Expiration Timeline
While used helmets provide value, components break down over years lessening safety:
| Helmet Part | Expected Lifespan |
| Outer Plastic Shell | 5-10 years |
| Inner EPS Foam Liner | 5-10 Years |
Exposure to sun and heat quickens deterioration further shortening viable usage cycles.
Confirm manufacturing dates, seeking consumer guidance from:
- Bell Helmet FAQ
- Specialized Helmet Owner’s Manual
Identifying Helmet Damage
While a pre-owned helmet may appear unscathed, scrutinize shells and liners for:
- Cracks – Fissures Visible To Naked Eye
- Dents – External Deformations
- Delamination – Inner/Outer Layers Separating
- Damage To Retention System – Fraying/Twisted/Cracked Straps
Review all sides/angles looking for anything compromising structural soundness!
Following Manufacturer Care Guidance
Seeking out original maker care instructions bolsters used helmet lifespan through:
- Proper cleaning methods avoiding material degradation.
- Ideal storage away from heat/chemicals/sunlight when not riding.
- Manufacturer warnings provide optimal practices.
Confirm if secondhand seller retains such documents for extended new lease on life!
In Summary
Asking key questions before purchasing used bicycle helmets verifies ongoing protective abilities even after previous miles accrued.
Confirm safety standards adherence, sizing appropriateness, age/expiry guidance, damage inspection, and manufacturer instructions produce confidence when buying pre-owned lids for optimized safety and value. Bon voyage!
