At least once a year you should check your helmet to make sure everything is right and correct.  As April is Motorcycle Helmet Safety month, now is a good time to do those checks.

What are the things you need to check?  Here are the minimum item you should check:

• Is the shell in one piece? No cracks or splits?

• Are the straps and connectors in good shape, no adverse wear or tear?

• The internal padding is connected and stays in place?

• Remove the padding and check the foam.  Is it dented or have cracks?

• While looking at the foam, most companies place a sticker printed with the helmet’s birthday. Is it over 5 years old? See below for some discussion on this item.

• Does the rest of the internals look in good operating condition?

• Check the visor for damage that might obscure your vision can you see clearly?

• Are the screws or other visor attachments tight?

• Make sure that insects/creatures are not living in your helmet. Will be VERY interesting if you put your helmet on with some bugs living inside?

Checklist item 5 is the 5-year rule.  Most manufactures recommend that after 5 years you replace your helmet.  While the cynical among us will cite the “more money” theory of why they want it replaced there is evidence that the foam lining (the part that does most of the work in a crash) does deteriorate over time. It is your head, so it is your decision whether to replace or not if everything looks good.

Do you have any additional tips or recommendations on making sure your motorcycle helmet is good for another riding season?