[CR] Old helmets and other perishables

(Example: Production Builders)

From: "Dr. Paul B. Williams" <castell5@sympatico.ca>
To: classicrendezvous <classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>
Date: Fri, 18 Feb 2011 16:13:25 -0500
Subject: [CR] Old helmets and other perishables


Not to put a damper on this discussion, but surely items like helmets - which are intended to minimize injury - should be as up to date as possible. IMHO modern helmets, in general, are much better constructed these days to absorb the impact of a crash. Moreover, I would have thought that plastics are prone to deterioration and subsequent brittleness over time (as a father with young kids I know only too well that plastic car-seats, for example, have a do-not-use after date on them). I will be the first to admit though that Giro's instructions to replace every three years must also be viewed in terms of marketing and sales.

I would personally draw the line at using a helmet from our on-topic time period. But, then, I also draw the line at using old rubber - tyres, tubes and brake pads - on bikes being used as riders. Similarly, I prefer to use new cables and spokes. For me these are perishable (if that is the right word) items which don't always stand the test of time very well - especially if I don't know how they have been stored or previously used.

I realise that much of what we hang on our frames, as well as the frames themselves, has the potential for failure through metal fatigue, damage, corrosion or stress. I always carefully assess the quality and condition of what I am using. Having said that, I am no expert on issues of fatigue and corrosion and can't always know for sure whether a part or a frame is safe. If I can minimize the possibility of problems by using newer cables, pads, tyres, and spokes I would prefer to start there. And without opening up the thorny issue of helmet-wearing - I would prefer to protect my noggin with an up-to-date helmet (but that is my preference).

Paul Williams,

Ottawa, ON, Canada

Dr. Paul B. Williams, BAH, MPhil, PhD Instructor, Dept. of Geography and Environmental Studies, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada